A VW Beetle For All Ages
By: ralphbarrera
Tags: VW Volkswagen Bug Beetle Story Limited Edition Grovvin' Anniversary Special Edition
Category: Photojournalism
| Aperture: | f/4 |
|---|---|
| Focal Length: | 16mm |
| ISO: | 125 |
| Shutter: | 1/0 sec |
| Camera: | Canon EOS-1D Mark II N |
I believe the majority of Baby Boomers and Generation Xers have come into contact with, in some way, shape or form with a VW Beetle. I ran across this sight for sore eyes the other day and it stopped me dead in my tracks. Okay so maybe I nearly walked off the curb straight into coming traffic, but there it was, a Special Edition, with an incredible paint job. I can’t say it was pleasing to the eye, but it was interesting to say the least.
My dream bug was a 1972 bright red Beetle with a loose front seat, seat belts I never used, a screwdriver I held handy to adjust the throttle on the 25-hp engine and the caveat was I had to park it downhill in order to push start it in cold or hot weather. It didn’t matter which, it rarely started on its own.
I loved that Thing for what it was. A cheap mode of transportation. I think I filled the tank every three months. I use to have a 100-lb Golden Retriever who rode Shotgun. On quick errands he would slide over when I left the car to take over the driver’s seat. And he let people know this was his car. He was about as tall as I was and it was absolutely hilarious.
Anyway I reminisce. I can’t say I’d buy a new Bug, but I have ridden in one and they are quite comfortable.
Story and photos by Ralph Barrera
AUSTIN MATTERS by Ralph Barrera 
I am in 11th grade and have a blue and purple 1971 VW beetle….i worked all summer as a lifeguard in ’09. i bought my beetle for 750 and another beetle for 300…….i still drive my bug today, but the winter is not a good season to have a beetle