Santana – the forgotten Dub!

The booted version of the B2 Passat was meant to be Volkswagen’s ‘World Car’. Assembled in Spain, built by Nissan in Japan and produced from kits in China, hopes were high that it would broaden VW’s links around the globe. Sadly, it didn’t quite meet expectations…

Beware new tax disc rules

From October 1 this year, the traditional paper tax disc will cease to exist. So it’s important for all Dubbers to know the new rules to avoid getting lumped with a hefty fine…

Factory fresh restorations

We were thrilled to learn that VW has its own commercial vehicle restoration service in Hanover – called ‘Oldtimer’ – which basically takes on everything from mild makeovers to complete, full blown bus restorations. So if you’re in the market for an official ‘factory’ rebuild, this is the place to go…

The origins of Beetle power

It’s difficult but fascinating to unravel the very beginnings of the VW air-cooled lump and some interesting powerplants were investigated before the classic and instantly recognisible flat-four configuration was finally decided upon. Being at the heart of our love affair with air-cooled dubs, we reckon how the engine first came into existence deserved a bit more investigation…

On the Button

We’re all aware of Jensen Button’s motor racing successes, including his fabulous 2009 Formula 1 World Championship win. But did you know his dad, John, was a top racing driver too and actually drove a Beetle and Mk1 Golf during the ‘70s and ‘80s….

My Beetle home…

When a long-term relationship goes belly-up it can wreak all sorts of havoc, especially when it comes to divvying up possessions following an acrimonious split. But for 83-year old Oscar Almaguer, rather than being forced to sell his beloved Beetle – he ended up having to live in it instead!

‘70s Tatum kit car

The Can-Am style Tatum Special was the ‘70s creation of racing driver/designer come car salesman Chuck Tatum. It’s a pretty wicked looking and about as rare as a really rare thing. Here’s how it came about…

Dead Beatle theory…

We all love conspiracy theories, and the one that surrounds the famous 1969 Abbey Road Beatles album cover has to be one of the best because it involves the white F-reg Beetle parked up the road…  

It’s all Greek…

During the weekend of June 4-5-6 the Hellenic Classic Car Club (HCCC) organised its national meeting of classic vehicles, including a host of rare, modified and suitably retro Veedubs. And VW Heritage was one of the sponsors…

No cheese Grommit!

When a gang of thieves in California decided to make off with three classic VW buses it was inevitable they would be rumbled sooner rather than later – especially as they were funky cut down versions painted orange and used to promote cheese!