A Short History Of The VW Beetle (cont.)

For 1973 the 1303 remained unchanged, but the smaller models were to undergo their most major changes since 1967. The basic 1200 model received the 1303 rear lights on redesigned rear wings, black bumpers with silver trim in a similar shape to the 1303 style, and the horn grilles had been discontinued.

The 1200L  had chrome bumpers, and side trim,  through ventilation, two-speed wipers, reverse lights, swiveling sun-visor for the driver, and a drivers door armrest and pocket. The 1200L was available with either a 34bhp or 44bhp motor. The 1303 was available in a variety of trim levels; 1303A, a cheaply priced version of the “big beetle”, 1303 body style, black bumpers, simple interior fittings, 34bhp motor.

The 1303L, 44bhp, with luxury package, 1303S, 50bhp, the 1303LS, 50bhp and luxury package. During ’72 VW introduced 2 limited editions, 1 based on the 1200, and one based on the 1303, respectively the Jeans (1200cc, yellow, with black “jeans” graphics, and denim trimmed interior) and the Yellow and Black Racer (50hp, leather steering wheel, sports seats, sports wheels, yellow with black bonnet and deck-lid).

1974’s Beetle range was slimmed down, and all the front indicators were moved from the wing tops to the bumper. Rack and pinion steering was introduced, therefore negating the need for a steering damper, a new “bulged” rear valance was fitted to cover the catalytic converter, necessary on US export models.

1975 saw the 1303 model dropped, and VW reverted back to the traditional beam front suspension, and the swing axle at the rear. The Cabrio continues using the 1303 front end.

Two versions of the sparkafer remain, as 1200cc 34bhp or 1600cc 50bhp, which featured 12v electrics. The larger of the two retains the 1303 vented deck-lid. All cars now feature black wing beading, regardless of body colour.

From 1975 through until 1978, when the Beetle production line was finally closed the car stayed virtually the same, save for a few new colour options which had been introduced on the new Golf model.

Production of the Beetle moved to Puebla in Mexico.