During my walk this morning my mind wandered back to my ultimate dream car, the classic Volkswagen Beetle. I may have cooled off a bit on owning one because of what happened to the Brazilian Jesse Kozechen and his dog, Shurastey but that incident also enforced some things I was strongly considering if ever I get the chance to own and modify a classic Beetle, namely:
- Preferably a flat windshield VW Super Beetle. Better suspension, more stable and safer ride. Raise the rear height to match the front for better ground clearance.
- Totally new and modern wiring harness. Upgrade to a 12 volt system with an alternator instead of 6 volts and a generator if needed. Make sure to put rubber covers on the battery connectors to avoid accidental fires.
- Minimum front disk brake upgrade, better if the rears are also converted to disks. It doesn't have to be those Wilwood big brake kits, just standard disk brake upgrades so that hopefully replacement disks and pads are cheaper and easier to come by.
- Upgrade all lights. New LED headlamps with built-in daytime running lights, LED bulbs for taillights and signal lights. Additional front fog lamps, rear third brake light. Change the interior to better cabin lights, ideally LED as well.
- 3-point seat belts for the front and rear seats. Middle rear seat can get the roof mounted shoulder belt. Just additional safety measures.
- I changed my mind about the engine. 1600cc twin carb setup so that we get better fuel economy.
- As always, roof rack and rear decklid rack.
