The Volkswagen Brasília was a car developed in Brazil by Volkswagen do Brasil and launched in 1973. The model was born from the company’s need to create a compact, robust vehicle suited to Brazilian conditions, while offering a more modern design than the Beetle.
Origins and Development
In the late 1960s, Volkswagen do Brasil realized that it needed a model that was midway between the Beetle and the VW Variant, which was more spacious and had a more up-to-date look. So the company began designing a new car, developed locally, under the leadership of engineer Cláudio Pecego de Moraes Pinto.
The name Brasília was chosen to reinforce the vehicle’s national identity, inspired by the country’s capital.
Features of the Volkswagen Brasilia
The Brasília used the Beetle platform , but with some improvements:
- Design : Straight and modern lines for the time, with a large glazed area and a hatchback body.
- Engine : Air-cooled, 1.6 liters (same as the Beetle), but with two carburetors, providing better performance.
- Interior space : Larger and more comfortable than the Beetle, allowing accommodation for four adults with greater comfort.
- Suspension : Inherited from the Beetle, ensuring robustness to face bad roads.
Launch and Success
The Volkswagen Brasília was launched in 1973 and quickly became a success. Its innovative design and robustness won over many consumers. The model was seen as a modern and urban option, being widely used by families as well as as a taxi and official fleet.
Export and Versions
The car was also exported to several countries, including Mexico, Venezuela and the Philippines. In Mexico, it was manufactured locally and called the VW Brasilia.
In 1977, Volkswagen launched an alcohol-powered version, following the Brazilian government’s policies to encourage the use of this fuel.
End of Production
Despite its success, production of the Brasília ended in 1982, being replaced by the Volkswagen Gol, which became the brand’s new popular car in Brazil.
The Volkswagen Brasília is still remembered and appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts of the brand, being an icon of national automotive design.
Volkswagen Brasilia miniatures
California Classics 1/24
Hot Wheels 1/64
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