VW Beetle Touches 328.2 Kmph At Bonneville Salt Flats

The moment one thinks of the Volkswagen Beetle, one sees a cute, lovable car that is the bringer of joy and sunshine to the drivers. The fact that a VW Beetle can be a speed monster too seems rather far-fetched. Not really though! Volkswagen built a special version of the Beetle, which shattered the world land speed record for a Beetle at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, USA.

(VW Beetle Land Speed Record Attempt)

The record attempt Beetle was tuned specially for the event. It featured a 2.0-litre, direct injection (TSI) which produced a massive 543bhp and 570Nm or thereabouts. The changes to the engine included new twin turbochargers, pistons, camshafts, connecting rods etc. The final attempt saw the Beetle do a stunning 328.2 km/h over a distance of 1.6km. In order to perform well, the Beetle was running on special wheels and tyres along with other modifications such as a lowered body, limited slip differential and comprehensive safety systems such as rollover cage, racing seats with 5-point harness and fire extinguishers as well.

The record attempt vehicle also came fitted with two brake parachutes for slowing down the car after the attempt was made. The previous land speed record for the VW Beetle stood at 281.6 kmph, which was attempted in 1988 and was the mark to breach ever since.