Volkswagen New Beetle RSi
The ultimate 'Bug' that paved the way for the Golf R32.
- Power
- 224 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.4 s
- Top speed
- 140 mph
- Est. value
- $50k–$80k
About the Volkswagen New Beetle RSi
The New Beetle RSi is a homologation-style special that transformed the retro-styled hatch into a genuine performance machine. Developed by Volkswagen Individual, it features a 3.2-litre VR6 engine and 4Motion all-wheel drive, a mechanical package that would later define the legendary Golf R32. Its aggressive wide-body kit, massive dual rear wings, and OZ Superturismo wheels give it a presence unlike any other Beetle. Inside, the cabin is stripped of its famous flower vase and fitted with carbon fibre door cards, billet aluminium accents, and bright orange Recaro bucket seats.
Volkswagen New Beetle RSi specs
The Volkswagen New Beetle RSi produces 224 bhp (167 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.4 seconds and has a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h).
| Make | Volkswagen |
|---|---|
| Model | New Beetle RSi |
| Trim | 3.2 VR6 |
| Years | 2001–2003 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 250 built |
| Engine | 3.2-litre VR6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,189 cc (3.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 224 bhp (167 kW) at 6,200 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.4 s |
| Top speed | 140 mph (225 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,515 kg (3,340 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 148 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 New Beetle RSi worth?
A typical Volkswagen New Beetle RSi is estimated to be worth $50,000 – $80,000 (about £37,000 – £60,000).
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 New Beetle RSi rarity in CarSpot
The Volkswagen New Beetle RSi is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 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 New Beetle RSi fun facts
- Only 250 units were produced for the public, all finished in Silver Arrow Metallic except for one blue car built for VW Chairman Ferdinand Piëch.
- The RSi was so expensive when new that it cost roughly double the price of a contemporary Porsche Boxster.
- To save weight and add a race-car feel, the interior features manual window winders and carbon fibre trim throughout.
