Got my first 1300 Beetle in 1970 when they were not made in Aust anymore.
People I know who had an earlier 1200 Aust version were not happy. Rust was
a major issue ( most Austs live near coast, the fathers GMH Holden living at
Bondi had perforated panels within 12 months of new) and I believe the
crankshaft went from being forged to cast, probably to satisfy some darn
bean counter ( accountant) and snapped crankshafts were not rare, especially
in cold weather. It was also alleged the top speed of the Aust Beetle was
about 10 mph less than the German version. Australian built cars up to
perhaps late 70,s were lacking in the quality dept to put it mildly. They
were dragged screaming into catch up mode by the Japanese.
Oz John
>> Stay informed about: More historical videos.