The Lightning Bug

I have always loved VW's, but only when I was old enough to have a career was I able to afford one on my own. My mother had a yellow '72 standard Beetle sedan for about one year before she and it washed into a ditch and totaled it during a down pour. I was born in 1977, so of course, I didn't get to experience that little car, but maybe that illustrates the inherited liking of VW's. Also, when growing up, I was raised in VW diesel Rabbits. We, a family of four, actually went over 1,000 miles to Disneyworld and back in a Rabbit one summer.

So when I saw a Beetle for sale at a local parking lot 2 1/2 years ago, I just had to go and buy him. I let the Lightning Bug set there for 2 weeks, just beckoning me to stop by. Once I stopped, I knew this car was meant to be mine. I actually knew little about Beetles, and this one was a Super Beetle. Super or not, I talked the seller down $1150 from his asking price. With a little surface rust in the usual places, small paint chips, and good dent in the front left fender, the Lightning Bug is not show quality. But that didn't matter, because it runs great and has a good radio!

I have had the Lightning Bug for 2 1/2 years now, during that time some repairs have been done. Major Super Beetle Shimmies cost $1,000, but now smooth riding. New carburetor, nearly un-fixable gas gauge, and typical every six months tune ups. Oh and occasional back firing. I drive my car nearly everyday.

Even though he's not a show car, we have a few trophies to our name. We usually do enter VW shows as daily driver, but one day we will take top Super Beetle, that is once the rebuild is complete in 10 years probably. :) Having my Beetle is a pleasure and a dream come true. I am currently an officer in the local VW club, great folks and great cars.

Natalie