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What kind of frame is used?
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The speedster replica was born in the 1970’s. Early manufacturers used a shortened VW pan and did not adequately reinforce the body. This led to the infamous “jack test”. If one were to lift the car with a jack, due to the body flex, the car doors would no longer close properly. Vintage Speedsters engineered a new type of structure starting with our first speedster produced in 1988.
Vintage Speedsters uses a custom built, jig welded, 2x4 inch 11-gauge steel frame. An original VW pan is restored, shortened and welded to the new steel skeleton. The rigid new structure retains the original VW pan designed by Dr. Ferdinand Porsche and integrates the largest frame possible. All of our custom built speedsters easily pass the “jack test”. In addition, the steering wheel is offset slightly, just
as an original speedster.
While some manufacturers will lead the customer to believe the use of a VW pan is inferior, it’s hard to argue with some facts.
1) Volkswagen produced over 21,000,000 cars using the pan design.
2) Vintage Speedsters hand built over 2000 speedsters as of Oct 2006.
3) We build more than 90% of the speedsters being sold today.
How many Vintage Speedsters have been built?
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As of Oct 2006, we hand built over 2000 Speedsters. We produce in our own facilities, more cars in one week, than some so-called manufacturers do in a year.
What kind of maintenance is needed?
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Vintage Speedsters use VW air-cooled engines. Stock engines will require a valve adjustment and tune-up every 3000 miles. This is a simple process and can be done by any foreign auto mechanic. VW produced over 29 million air-cooled engines, so finding parts and service is never a problem.
Who can I get insurance from?
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Many insurance companies will cover your new Vintage Speedster. Here are just a few.
In California, US Only:
Barlow Ins. -- 1-800-558-7772
Hagerty Classic Auto Ins - 1-800-922-4050
US Nationwide:
Hagerty Ins. -- 1-800-747-5348
How is the speedster registered/titled?
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They receive a VW title. The year reflects the manufactured year of the original donor pan.
How are smog requirements handled?
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Smog is by the year of the chassis, in CA. 1976 and earlier are exempt.
What size tires work best?
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165/15 Tires , 5 1/2in. By 15in. wheels, preserve the original look of the speedster.
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