What is a cheap way of adding more horsepower to a VW Beetle?

Question

It is a '72, 1600cc engine (1.6L)

Answer 1

If you wanted to go the bolt on way, I would go with a header and a progressive carberator. If you have more money to spend the better way to go would be to put a new set of pistons. Go with 88mm pistons ,anything larger requires machine work. This gives you about a 1750cc engine. While the heads are off ...exchange them for slightly larger valves.

Answer 2

Make it breathe better with a bolt on aftermarket exhaust header, get a less restrictive air filter (Fram makes a nice one, ask your local Auto parts dealer). Then you can handle a slightly hotter spark plug! You should get at least 10 hp, and on the 1600, that's more than a 10% increase! With that, you'll burn rubber if you like. All that for under $250, without stressing your engine at all. good luck!

Answer 3

Your Ford dealer would be a good place to start. Ford racing has a bunch of performance parts available. As another has said, you can reprogram the cars computer to gain more HP. There are a bunch of mustang enthusiasts out there and a bunch of mustang clubs. Several high performance mustang magazines are out there too. Checking out the forums on mustangs will let you chat with other mechanics and owners and you can benefit from their knowledge. good luck.

Answer 4

Low restriction exhaust and dual carbs. New Bosch +4 plugs and high performance ignition wires and a Bosch Blue coil.
Anything else will require extensive engine reworking.

Answer 5

It depends on what cheap is for you, how much work you want to do yourself and how much power you want. You can start with a larger diameter exhaust to reduce back pressure to engine, get flat top pistons, over sized rings etc

Answer 6

Don't let any "big" people in it....;o)!! JK..I have a '72 Super Beetle......LOVE IT!!

Answer 7

wider air intakes, but on one that old, i dont think thats an option.

Answer 8

turbo.