A Short History Of The VW Beetle (cont.)

The 1960 Beetle brought more changes to the bodyshell, now all models featured indicators built into the rear lights, and separate indicators on the front wings. The 1960 models engine was increased from 30hp to 34hp, rather than a capacity increase the new power came from better carburetion and increased compression ratios. All models now featured fully synchromeshed gearboxes, The fuse box was moved inside the car, next to the steering column, and all cars now featured a windscreen washer. Passenger grab handles and sunvisors, which had previously been options were now included on the export models. The fuel tank was once again redesigned in an attempt to make better use of the luggage capacity.

1961’s Beetle body was more or less the same as the previous years model, new rear lights were fitted, with individual sections for each light, the bonnet was now spring loaded, alleviating the need for the separate bonnet stay, which if forgotten could cause damage to the panel. A new screenwash system was introduced, rather than being pumped from the dashboard, the tank was pressurized using compressed air, refillable using a tyre air line at any service station. For the first time, VW had fitted the Beetle with a fuel gauge, dispensing with the need for a reserve tap.