The idea of using 1200 cc VW engines to power open-wheel race cars might seem odd. Low-powered by today’s turbocharged standards, and slow-revving with a redline of only 6,000 RPM. But these air-cooled, four-bangers are incredibly durable, and can take constant abuse without failure. So, the old racing adage certainly applies; to finish first, first you must finish!
Commercials back in the bay used to push the ‘durability’ angle. This VW Beetle ad told the story of a Bug caught in a blizzard that cranked and fired up on the first twist of the ignition key, once it was dug out of the snow months later.