Classic VW Models and their Modern Equivalent

Founded in 1937, Volkswagen is a longstanding German automaker that has made many triumphs in the automotive industry.

As a popular household name across Europe and the rest of the world, Volkswagen has reproduced many of their classic models, while some have been replaced over the years to better suit motorists needs. We’ve considered some of the most progressive changes to some of the classic Volkswagen models.

Volkswagen Beetle: Then and Now

The VW Beetle was originally commissioned to be a cheap car that even a poor man could afford, own, operate, maintain, and repair by himself with limited knowledge. It brought mobility to the masses in a stylish package. Still a popular choice today, the original Beetle design can still be seen on roads across the UK and Europe.

Fast forward 80 years and the Beetle is the exact opposite. The old model was rear-engined and rear-driven, whereas the new Beetle is front-engined and front-driven. The original Beetle was extremely cheap, whereas the newest model is billed as a flagship model and is around £2,000 more than the Golf that it’s mechanically mirrored to.

Volkswagen Scirocco Replaces the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia

The Karmann Ghia coupe cruised along the streets for the first time in 1955. This stylish motor combined the mechanical structure of the Beetle with the design and bodywork of Luigi Segre and coach builder Karmann. This vehicle was originally designed to keep with the times as the 50’s saw an increase in post-war luxuries. It’s sleek exterior paired with its sturdy engine kept this car running until the 1970’s before other models superseded the classic model.

In 1974, Volkswagen released the Scirocco as a replacement for the Karmann Ghia coupe. After many years on the market, It was retired from the VW range in the early nineties before making a comeback in 2008. Designed as a mix of a sports coupe and a hatchback, the Scirocco was given a major makeover for its return. Transformed from the boxy design of the old model, it’s now a rather sought after beauty with its sleek lines and sporty interior.