This isn’t your average Volkswagen Beetle. No, the Bug you see pictured here – which just set a new speed record at the World of Speed event at Lake Bonneville in Utah – has been thoroughly reworked.
Dubbed the Beetle LSR (Land Speed Record), this vehicle drove the fastest speed ever documented for a Beetle, reaching 328.195 km/h over a distance of one mile.
The car was modified to conform to regulations for record drives on salt flats, and the peak outputs of its 2,0-litre TSI engine were boosted to a smidgen over 400 kW and some 571 N.m.
How? Well, a new turbocharger, different pistons, tweaked camshafts and updated connecting rods were fitted, while cylinder head modifications were also carried out.
The Beetle LSR was furthermore equipped with special wheels and tyres for driving on salt, and the body was lowered significantly. A limited-slip differential was also used to improve traction.
A safety package, comprising a rollover protection cage, a race seat with five-point harness and a fire extinguishing system, was also added. In addition, the car also gained a pair of brake parachutes.
