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The GSR - Unicorn of Special Edition Super Beetles
The GSR nameplate made its debut in late 1972 as a limited-edition 1973 version of the 1303S, created in response to the demands of speed enthusiasts. The acronym GSR represents Gleb Schwarzer Renner, translating to Yellow Black Racer in German. Despite its name, the modifications were primarily aesthetic. The GSR distinguished itself from the regular 1303S with its vibrant yellow exterior, which featured flat black accents on the hood, deck lid, bumpers, and nearly all exterior trim.
Volkswagen produced a limited run of just 3,500 units of the GSR model. Each
vehicle was priced at 7,650 Deutsche Mark (approximately $4,100 USD today),
which was around 800 Deutsche Mark more than the standard 1303S model. The
entire production run sold out rapidly, as many enthusiasts had long anticipated
a factory-built racing version of the Beetle. 
The
track-inspired design continues inside with sport seats for the front occupants
and a leather three-spoke racing style steering wheel. However, this focus
did not carry over to the engine compartment, as the GSR was equipped with
the standard 1.6-liter air-cooled flat-four engine, producing 50 horsepower
and 80 pound-feet of torque. An oil cooler was added, necessitating the use
of a slotted front apron identical to that of the Super Beetle sold in the
USA and Canada. Designed with rally enthusiasts in mind, the GSR came with
a list of Volkswagen-approved tuners to help maximize the performance of the
flat-four engine.
The GSR is an uncomplicated machine featuring four pistons, eight valves,
and a carburetor. With a swift turn of the key, the flat-four engine roars
to life, quickly transitioning to a steady, low idle. The choke operates automatically,
eliminating the need for manual adjustments. Engage the long gear shift lever
into first gear, release the clutch, and you’re on your way. Initial
observations are that the GSR produces a louder sound compared to other Beetles
from its time, with the flat-four's engine noise being notably more prominent.
The GSR marks Volkswagen's initial effort to evolve an economy vehicle into
a street-legal version that boasts enhanced speed, improved driving dynamics,
and a robust aesthetic. A significant number of GSRs were either modified
for racing purposes, heavily used, or both. According to estimates from
Volkswagen's archives department, approximately only 100 units remain today,
rendering it one of the rarest VWs available and one of the most sought-after
Super Beetles ever manufactured.January Blog
Happy New Year! I'm lucky I updated the website a few weeks ago, because I'm sure to be sleeping in after a super-fun New Years Eve celebration. So for 2025 I'm continuing with the same formula that has made SuperBeetles.com the most popular Super Beetle website in the world. New Super Beetle features each month, interesting Super Beetle focused articles in the new section, event listings and event coverage along with Super Beetle ads and lots of factory pictures. These sections have grown so much that I've had to split them into several pages. So be sure to look for the "MORE >>" at the bottom of each page to see MORE super stuff. If you have any suggestions for what you'd like to see in 2025 please feel free to reach out to me. All the best in 2025!