Hello from Auckland,New Zealand- 1970 AutoStick bug

[Hot VW]

Hi all,

Found this site from a link on the samba!I just purchased my first ever semiauto(autostick)bug last week and am absolutely thrilled with it.I drive a 67 beetle daily but it looks like the 70 will replace that now.This website has been very very helpful to help me understand this type of transmission system in an aircooled VW.

As far as I'm aware New Zealand got the 1500 Beetle in Semi Auto from 1968 onwards.These had disc brakes and IRS rear.In 1970 the 1302 beetle was introduced and was also offered in semi Auto(Autostick) configaration until 1972.The 1500 beetle continued to be offered as an Auto until 1973/74.The 1500 RHD drive Auto beetles are very very rare here due to the small numbers sold and also lots have been used to convert into manuals for use with projects etc.

After driving this car for a week now,I cant understand why the idea didnt take off.As far as busy traffic goes this is a breeze to drive.The car is not perfect as it crunches when I try to put it into reverse.However the rest of the gearchange works real smooth when driving.Can someone also confirm the gearbox ratio ad 4.375:1?I'm thinking if putting the 1679 from my 67 into the 70 to test it out.

Look forward to contributing here to continue our enjoyment.preservation and understanding of these unique and cool machines..