Volkswagen Brasilia
The air-cooled Brazilian icon that modernised the Beetle's formula.
- Power
- 60 bhp
- Top speed
- 83 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$15k
About the Volkswagen Brasilia
Developed by Volkswagen do Brasil to replace the aging Beetle (Fusca), the Brasília combined the proven air-cooled flat-four engine with a modern, spacious hatchback body. It utilised the wider chassis of the Karmann Ghia, offering significantly more interior room and better visibility than the Beetle while maintaining its legendary mechanical simplicity. Though it looked like a contemporary European hatchback, it remained rear-engined and rear-wheel drive, retaining the characteristic air-cooled thrum. It became a massive success in South America, with over one million units produced, and remains a cult classic for VW enthusiasts today.
Volkswagen Brasilia specs
The Volkswagen Brasilia produces 60 bhp (45 kW) and 115 Nm (85 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 83 mph (134 km/h).
| Make | Volkswagen |
|---|---|
| Model | Brasilia |
| Trim | 1.6 |
| Years | 1973–1982 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Brazil |
| Engine | 1.6-litre air-cooled flat-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,584 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 60 bhp (45 kW) at 4,600 rpm |
| Torque | 115 Nm (85 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 83 mph (134 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 890 kg (1,962 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 67 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Volkswagen Brasilia worth?
A typical Volkswagen Brasilia is estimated to be worth $4,100 – $15,000 (about £3,100 – £11,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Volkswagen Brasilia rarity in CarSpot
The Volkswagen Brasilia is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 19 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Volkswagen Brasilia fun facts
- The Brasília was named after Brazil's capital city, which was itself a symbol of modernism and progress at the time of the car's launch.
- Despite its hatchback appearance, the engine is accessed through a panel in the boot floor, which could make the cabin quite noisy and warm.
- In Nigeria, the car was sold as the Volkswagen Igala, where it was assembled from knock-down kits.