The Volkswagen Beetle might be one of the most recognized cars on the entire planet. Their iconic curvy shape and tiny size have been stealing hearts since the company first started manufacturing them in the 1930s.
‘Volkswagen’ translates to the ‘people’s car’ in German; their designs were meant to be efficient and affordable – the VW Beetle is the epitome of their mission. In fact, it was the first model they ever produced.
The original models of Beetles were (and still are!) common to see on roads all around the world. Through the 1950s to 1970s, the VW Beetle primarily served as a family’s second car – their small size and fuel efficiency made them excellent vehicles for commuting to work. What they lacked in speed – they made up for in originality and cuteness.
The practical and adorable car has been a hit since it came out of the factory, and ever since it gained popularity, people began decking out their ‘Bugs’ with customized features and additions. Due to the car’s simplistic design, it makes it one of the ‘easiest’ automobiles to repair and upgrade.
In 1975, a third party company designed and constructed the ‘Super Bugger’ – a cross between the classic Beetle and a small RV.
Using fiberglass paneling, the company constructed a tiny living space behind the driver and passenger seats. The unusual recreational vehicle, built on a 1968 VW Beetle platform, initially sold for the cool price of $6,000.
The 1968 model was used because it was the last year for the swing-axle assembly, an axle ideal for an RV conversion. In 1977, the Super Bugger was so eye-catching and innovative, that it ended up gracing the cover of the legendary Mechanix Illustrated magazine.
Keith and Glenna Spelrum happen to be proud owners of their very own ‘Super Bugger,’ and they’ve kept it in absolutely pristine condition.
“Nobody ever knows what it is and some guess it’s a Westphalia,” Keith told My Star Collector Car.
The Spelrum’s ‘Super Bugger’ doesn’t feature a bed, but it does have a dining table and small kitchenette. It’s the absolutely perfect vehicle for camping – just pitch a tent outside, and you’re all set! Could you imagine all of the fun summer road trips?
This particular Beetle turned RV features a 1600cc dual part engine that came from a VW Bus, allowing the vehicle to maintain highway speeds of between 50-55 mph.
Keith and Glenna like to bring their unique car around to different auto shows; they prefer to use it as a socializing tool and conversation piece rather than a camper. They say that people are constantly drawn to it and are always asking questions.
“We came to one final conclusion about this very cool VW: it may not be the world’s best camper but it is the world’s best ice-breaker for Keith and Glenna,” My Star Collector Car says on their website after seeing the hybrid RV in person.
The eye-catching Super Bugger kits are no longer for sale, but it’s nice to see that some of them still exist today. Would you like to adventure around in one?
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