A Brasilia in California

Even though almost a million units were produced over its nine year production run, the Volkswagen Brasilia is high on the list of cars one is unlikely to see rolling along the roads of North America. This 1975 Brasilia was driven up from Mexico by a man known to us only as Luis. The Brasilia was slammed after he got it back to the USA. The  suspension was left stock for the journey north to handle the topes or any other on or off road obstacles along the way. Luis originally located the Brasilia in Mexico, and re-painted it there. Once the wagon-like VW was up north, Luis lowered it onto a set of eight-spoke EMPI Sprint Star wheels for the correct SoCal VW Cal-Look.

While it appears that perhaps the Brasilia is based on the VW Type III wagon and/or 412 wagon chassis, the car actually sits atop a VW Type I Bug chassis. The Brasilia is a Beetle under its own stylish steel skin. The Brasilia was designed and built by Volkswagen do Brasil, who were also responsible for creating the near-mythical Volkswagen SP1 and SP2 sports cars. The engine is an upright 1600cc with a shorter cooling shroud for the tight engine compartment fit. The Brasilia was a popular choice in the country whose capital city holds the same name. The wagon-like three door was manufactured from 1973 until 1982 for a total of 950,000 stylish, yet practical cars. It seems at least one extra hardy Brasilia has made it through to Mexico and then onto the USA. Luis drives his Brasilia a few days a week, or to whatever VW gathering he can make it to. Whichever comes first.

1975 Volkswagen Brasilia on EMPI Sprint Stars