UNUSUAL CARS MODEL GUIDE
The Volkswagen Beetle 1302 and 1303 were the most extensively developed German-built versions of the original Beetle. Known collectively as Super Beetles in some markets, they combined the familiar rear-mounted air-cooled engine with MacPherson-strut front suspension, a longer wheelbase and substantially more front luggage space.
Featured image: Volkswagen Beetle 1302. Photograph by Ddoherty958, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons; locally hosted.
Why Volkswagen created the 1302
For 1970 Volkswagen gave the Beetle its largest technical overhaul. The 1302 used MacPherson struts and coil springs at the front, semi-trailing-arm rear suspension and a wheelbase extended by 20mm. Moving away from the traditional front torsion-beam layout created a deeper front boot, reduced the turning circle and gave more predictable handling.
The 1302 retained a flat windscreen and familiar Beetle dashboard. The regular 1302 used a 1,285cc engine producing 44PS, while the 1302 S received the 1,584cc 50PS unit and front disc brakes. A 1302 S became the 15,007,034th Beetle in February 1972, taking the production record previously associated with the Ford Model T.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| 1302 production | 1970� 1972 |
| 1303 saloon production | 1972� 1975 |
| Front suspension | MacPherson struts with coil springs |
| Main engines | 1,285cc 44PS and 1,584cc 50PS |
| Visual distinction | 1302 flat screen; 1303 curved panoramic screen |
How the 1303 differs
The 1303 arrived in 1972 with a curved panoramic windscreen, shorter bonnet, padded dashboard and large rear lamps commonly nicknamed elephant feet. The revised screen moved farther forward, creating a roomier and more modern driving environment. Engine choices again included 1.3- and 1.6-litre versions, with a basic 1.2-litre 1303 A also offered in some markets.
Later 1303s gained bumper-mounted indicators and rack-and-pinion steering. German saloon production ended in 1975, but the Karmann-built 1303 Cabriolet continued until January 1980. That makes the convertible a later and sometimes more highly equipped proposition, but also one that demands especially careful structural and hood inspection.
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Body and front-structure inspection
Check heater channels, floorpan halves, body-to-pan mounting edges, lower pillars, door bottoms, rear quarter panels, bumper mounts and the battery area. On 1302 and 1303 models, also inspect the frame head and both front strut towers from above and below. Rust or badly plated repairs here affect suspension alignment and safety.
Uneven tyre wear, a steering wheel that sits off-centre or a car that will not track straight may indicate worn front suspension, poor alignment or previous structural damage. Cabriolets require sound reinforced sills and floor sections. Check hood fit, seals, rear window, drainage and damp beneath the carpets.
Air-cooled engine and transmission checks
Check the engine from cold. It should start without heavy smoke, persistent knocking or excessive crankshaft end float. Look for complete cooling tinware, secure fuel hoses, oil leaks and records of oil changes and valve adjustments. A larger or replacement engine is common, so identify what is installed and whether the brakes and gearing suit it.
The four-speed manual gearbox should select cleanly. Linkage wear can create a vague shift, but jumping out of gear, rumbling or a noisy differential require more investigation. Test the clutch for slip and judder. Make sure the engine-bay seal is intact because it separates hot exhaust air from the cooling intake.
Which one makes the best classic?
The 1302 has the more traditional appearance because of its flat windscreen, while the 1303 offers the most developed driving position and later steering improvements. A 1.6-litre S is the most effortless standard saloon; a correctly maintained 1.3 remains entirely usable for relaxed classic driving.
Condition outweighs badge. Original unmodified cars are increasingly attractive, but sympathetic upgrades are not automatically a problem when documented and properly engineered. Before buying, verify the chassis number, engine identity, year-specific details and any claimed special-edition status.
Buying checklist
Inspect the shell before the paint
View the structure from above and below, question fresh underseal and obtain a specialist opinion on previous repairs.
Identify the exact specification
Match chassis, engine, body style and year-specific details to the documents and available history.
Price missing parts before purchase
Rare trim and body components can cost more and take longer to find than routine mechanical service parts.
References
- Volkswagen Classic Beetle 1302 history
- Volkswagen Classic Beetle 1303 history
- Hagerty UK Beetle buying guide
- Classics World 1302/1303 buying guide
Continue the Volkswagen story
Explore the complete Volkswagen hub for more rare, sporting and technically unusual models.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Beetle 1302 and 1303?
The 1302 retains a flat windscreen, while the 1303 has a curved panoramic screen, revised dashboard and later body details. Both use MacPherson-strut front suspension.
Is every late Beetle a Super Beetle?
No. Volkswagen continued selling conventional torsion-beam Beetles alongside the 1302 and 1303 in various markets.
Which engines were fitted to the 1302 and 1303?
The principal versions used 1,285cc 44PS and 1,584cc 50PS air-cooled flat-four engines, with a basic 1.2-litre 1303 A also produced.
Where do 1302 and 1303 Beetles rust?
Inspect the frame head, strut towers, inner wings, heater channels, floorpan, lower pillars, bumper mounts and battery area.
Did the 1303 Cabriolet continue after the saloon?
Yes. German 1303 saloon production ended in 1975, while the Karmann-built 1303 Cabriolet continued until January 1980.
