VW Beetle Tuning Parts

Tuning parts for the VW Beetle: around 200 components for suspension, brakes, engine and looks. Much of it comes straight from our workshop in Rahden – we've been working on the VW Beetle for over 30 years. The focus is on parts that mak...

Not sure which part fits? Give us a call: +49 5771 9187088 · Mon–Fri 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
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Tuning parts for the VW Beetle — more power, better suspension, more durable brakes. From over 30 years of Beetle experience and our own conversion projects, we know which parts go together and what a conversion really needs.

From individual components to a complete conversion concept: not sure whether a part fits your model year? Give us a call: +49 5771 9187088 (Mon–Fri 9 am–6 pm) — we advise you personally.

FAQ

VW Beetle tuning: FAQ

What are the first upgrades worth doing on a VW Beetle?

For the engine, Rüdiger Knepper of Knepper Bugs & more names the breakerless 123ignition distributor at around €300 as the first upgrade, for the Super Beetle 1302 and 1303 camber strut mounts at around €160, and for the rear a camber adjustment at around €300. From 100 PS, Cup struts or transmission braces from around €300 are a must, according to Knepper.

The best upgrades under €500

Which company specializes in VW Beetle tuning?

Knepper Bugs & more in Rahden is a workshop and parts shop for the VW Beetle, with over 30 years of Beetle experience. The workshop converts Beetles to Subaru engines, Porsche 944 brakes and sport suspension, electric drivetrains with Tesla technology are built with partner company ESDI-EV, and tuning parts are available in the online shop.

Workshop services

What brakes do I need if my VW Beetle has more power?

More power needs stronger brakes, matched as a system with the master cylinder and rear axle. For the Super Beetle 1302 and 1303 up to around 250 PS, the Porsche 944 floating caliper brake offers the best value for money according to Knepper Bugs & more; close to stock, the Kerscher system with documents for registration is an alternative.

Porsche brake conversion

Can I lower my VW Beetle and keep it TÜV-approved?

One way is the adjustable ball joint front beam for Beetles from 08/65 (not Super Beetle 1302/1303) from the Knepper Bugs & more shop: it comes with papers for individual approval (Einzelabnahme, § 19), and shorter shocks may be needed. Whether it gets approved is up to the inspector, so clarify it with them beforehand.

Is a taller-geared transmission worth it on a tuned VW Beetle?

With a 3.44 final drive ratio, all four gears get longer and, according to Knepper Bugs & more, the Beetle drives more relaxed even on longer trips on country roads and the autobahn. The transmission with the 3.44 ratio in the Knepper shop is suitable for vehicles from 1800 cc and 80 PS up to a maximum of 160 PS.

Does a tuned VW Beetle keep its H plate?

It depends on the modification, and in the end the inspector decides. According to Rüdiger Knepper of Knepper Bugs & more, an H plate (German historic registration) is possible with the Kerscher brake and with the Porsche 944 floating caliper brake, but no longer with the 944 Turbo S brake because it is too new; with a Subaru conversion, according to Knepper, it is hardly obtainable.

Swing axle or IRS: which one does my VW Beetle have?

Standard Beetles (1200, 1300, 1500) usually have a swing axle at the rear, while the Super Beetle 1302 and 1303 have a semi-trailing arm (IRS) rear axle. According to Knepper Bugs & more, owners planning more power often convert to IRS; the Porsche 944 brake fits at the rear on Beetles with steel IRS.

Which Beetle do I have?

Your question isn't listed? Call us: +49 5771 9187088 (Mon–Fri 9 am–6 pm) or write to office@knepper-bugs-more.de.