HEY! Why the beetle bashing?
I thought this was a FIAT bashing forum?

<looks around>

 

Armchair - to answer your question -- YES there are people out there, Mini owners included, that feel how you do about the R56, you've seen a few people chime in and agree. You are not imagining things.

I would add, besides giving the JCW a chance, check into aftermarket options, you'll be amazed at what a set of lowering springs/coilovers and non-runflats will do for the look, ride and handling of the car.

As for the whimsical interior, as an owner for 2+ months, I can tell you that I am also not a raving fan, but I have gotten used to its quirkiness. I think another sitting in the cockpit is in order, who knows -- you might feel differently next time.

Oh, and next time you test drive an R56 please make sure that the Sport button is on .

 

Wouldn't most issues of the R53 vs R56 road feel and handling comparison be remedied after the R56 was fitted with a proper set of lowering springs and solid rear control arms?

 

Nostalgia cars are great - all of them. I have a Mini now, party because when I was a (foolish) teen, my friend would take me for wild rides in his classic Mini.
First time I ever experienced simultaneous thrill and fear going around corners.
Who knew a car could do this, I thought!

50 years later and that feeling still with me pushed me over the edge to buy a Mini!

My first two cars were a 36 HP Beetle, then a 40 HP Beetle - engines smaller than a beach ball, but got me everywhere I needed to go. But no Mini, as far as handling. One day I went fast around a curve following my friends Mini. He stuck like glue. I rolled over and over, but didnt get hurt, thanks to seat belts even then. Back to the present: I test drove a new beetle cabrio, and a new mini cabrio - 50 years later, the beetle is still no mini.

May I ask a favor - Do you know what you get for MPG in your classic beetle? I can not recall what I used to get. Sure would like to know though.

 

Where did I say I DISLIKED them? That's right, I didn't. Your words, not mine. Where did I say anything about "dodging a bullet"? Again, your words, not mine.
I SAID they were about as exciting to drive as an empty tomato can on wheels or something to that effect. 59 bug, 63 bug, 65 bus, 67 squareback, 71 bug.., did I miss something? Easy to work on, cheap to own, but boring and absolutely unexciting...YES.
Your final sentence "More like stepping in front of a semi automatic weapon on purpose, you know?" No, I don't know. I had better training with firearms than to do that.

 

 

Bobj,

I restored a 74 beetle for my dad several years ago (1350cc engine I believe). I drove it most of a year getting all the "bugs" out, and I kept pretty good track of the mileage. This was on a 50/50 city/highway commute, including some "spirited" drives (loose interpretation of the word in a beetle), but I do remember I was getting around 32-35mpg on the highway. Not bad for those old low compression motors. Of course, weighing only 1800lbs or so helped.

Btw, while the empty tomato can comparison is apt, the beetle was fun to drive for me and my dad. That car could go almost anywhere, was as simple as an ox cart to operate and repair, and face it, the motor did have the sound of the early porsches. Like the mini, it was raw, quirky, and just plain unique.

Daniel


Daniel

 

I learned to drive manual on a Super Beetle. It was pretty easy.

Many years later I tried to teach my wife manual on a 1996 Mustang Cobra. Not so good results. But I don't feel too bad since two other people tried to teach her later.

I remember we got new windshield glass for the Beetle in the 80's and it was like $65 installed or something like that. Just a flat piece of glass.

 

Some one answer me. R53 purists? R56 zealots?

 

I'm surprised the Sky Redline does not get more play among enthusiasts. It has 260hp/260tq and weighs 3038. I do mind the weight, ~400lbs heavier than my MCS, but most so-called enthusiasts these days seem to ignore weight altogether. And the Sky Redline also has 100 more hp stock than my MCS stock. Seems like much more power could be coaxed out of the Sky Redline's 2.0 turbo. Additionally, it has a sports car layout and hip styling that isn't worn out like that of the Vette.

 

Short answer, yes. Also the PSRS(Positive Steering Response System) from Alta is supposed to work wonders for $200.