1978 Volkswagen Brasilia

Description

The Brasilia was one of the first Volkswagens to be developed and built outside of the German manufacturing facilities. The former president of Volkswagen of Brazil, Rudolph Leidig, inspired by the SP2, challenged the brand engineers to produce a new version of the Beetle, however adapted to the Brazilian market. The new concept should offer more space, utilize the same mechanics but with a more contemporary look. After a series of prototypes, finally José Vicente Martins and Márcio Piancastelli presented a concept to be the final model. Similarly, to a ‘’mini-Variant’’, with a modernized version of the front of this vehicle, being 2 centimeters shorter than the Beetle, however with the same space between axles, bigger interior room and a wider frontal glass, a satisfactory front trunk and a practical hatchback door on the rear compartment.The straight-line body design was smooth and balanced which was innovative in the era. This styling characteristic gave a roomier interior for the passengers, something difficult to come around in the segment at those times. Launched on the market in 1973, it was responsible for the leadership in sales for Volkswagen for almost a decade. In 1978 was the first face lift of the Brasilia. The changes were discreet. The thin bumpers with round corners became more robust with plastic corners and rectangular format, the front hood getting two longitudinal lines, rear tail light received a new lens, like the ones used on Mercedes-Benz. On the same year it was presented in the Brazilian International car show as LS version, the most luxurious in the history of the Brasilia model, offering head support for the front seats, some exclusive exterior details like, side moldings, rubber molding on the bumpers, headlights with moldings and metallic colors. Also, it was offered with some upgraded equipment like rear defroster, clock and FM radio. The LS version was to be launched in 1979, but the initial 300 were released late 1978, just like the one that we are offering for sale. This version being extremely rare because of its luxurious style and price difference from the base model, made it difficult to sell.

The Brasilia made itself the best-selling vehicle in Brazil in 1979, with more than 150,000 units sold only that year.This unit in which we are selling includes all the available options in the LS version, including the original ‘’Mantiqueira’’ which is our Green Metallic. This vehicle is found with low miles, only 44,000 Kilometers (27,340 Miles) and even though it has been through a meticulous restoration process, it maintains its original body structure and seal. The interior is about 80% original from the manufacturer, the mechanical was completely restored which includes rebuilding the engine, brakes, clutch, bearings, wheels, tires and fuel tank and all these parts used on the restoration are original Volkswagen parts.

Please call to come see and inspect the car. All sales are AS-IS. We can help to export and transportation. 305-332-2294