Need opinions on new engine and tranny for 69 bug

[jadover]

Want to put in a new engine and tranny for my 69 bug but dont know what to get. Thought about a scat kit but just dont know. I want something fast off the line and that can hang on cali freeways. What size engine do i need? Any comments would be helpful. Thanks

[BoatCop]

It all depends on what you want to do.

Do you want a dependable daily driver? Or a car that can blow away ricers on a Saturday night?

Since you mention the freeways, I'll presume you want something dependable. If so, the stock 1600 dual port is probably what you want. I've got one in mine (although it's a single port) and it hops off the line with pep and can run at 75 MPH all day with a stock transmission, and can hit 80 with ease. (Starts running hot after that, at least out here in the desert)

If you want a little more power, move up to a 1776cc. The 1641cc is just a bored out 1600, with no additional meat on the cylinder walls, and is subject to cylinder warpage. Especially in warm climates. Larger engines can give you better hole-shots, but you give up a lot in dependability for a daily driver.

Top speed is relative to what the transmission gear ratio is. As I said, stock will do just fine. Some people like the "Freeway Flyer" since they have a taller 4th gear and hence a higher top speed. However, the Krauts in white coats (VW engineers) designed these cars with a purpose. The higher speed with lower RPM will effect cooling in the engine and can also result in engine lugging, which can cause premature engine failure.

Since you mention California Freeways, I would strongly suggest converting the front brakes from drum to disc. (Rear, too, if you can afford it) Especially if you go with more than stock power. VWs aren't known for their collision safety, particularly in the front end. Stopping power is definitely a requirement in California bumper to bumper traffic.

Take this advice, and any other advice you get, and decide what YOU want. After all, it's your Bug and you can do anything YOU want with it. Everyone has their own likes and dislikes, and what I like in my Beetle may not be what someone else likes in theirs.

The only dead-on, must-do advice you should follow is to buy good, quality parts and components the first time. Look beyond the initial cost. Cheap parts (engines in particular) are cheap for a reason. Corners are cut, inferior parts/materials are used and you'll be buying the same things again 6 months to a year down the road. Buy quality parts once. Or cheap parts several times over. It isn't a bargain when you have to pay for it twice.

Good Luck, and be sure to post some pictures of your car.

[the Wanderer]

don't forget that if you are going for a 1776 motor you will need to go for twin carbs. a set of 34's will be sufficient and then have them jetted accordingly but as in the previous comment a stock 1600 twin port will give you all you need with the reliability built in just remember to change that oil every 3000miles