A TALE OF TWO THREES

By Dave Cormack

Inthe 1950s, Volkswagen had a three-model series (Beetle, Bus, KG Type 14) using the same 1100cc 36hp motor. With a worldwide export expansion program at the top of their priorities, VW knew they needed a middle-class series of cars with a larger motor. In 1957, one of VW’s Wolfsburg factory buildings suffered a fire and was gutted. VW engineers secretly began the new 1500 model line development in this building, with the windows covered and access limited. By 1960, three 1500 models were being exhaustively tested: the Sedan (Notchback), Wagon (Variant), and Sports Coupe (KG T34).

The new 1500cc engine was redesigned in a flat format to allow a third storage compartment. Compared to the existing product line, the 1500 series had more standard-equipment features, and the interiors were more comfortable. Prices were higher too, with the Notchback costing 35 percent more than the Beetle. VW announced that it would not discontinue the Beetle; rather, the 1500 series (also known as the Type 3) would be an additional model line.

Production lasted from 1962 to 1973, with over 2.6 million cars built. Progressive refinements in the Type 3 included a 45hp motor (1962-63), 54hp motor (1964-73), front disc brakes (1966), 12-volt electrical (1967), fuel injection (1968), and a fully automatic transmission (1968).

Morgan Inmire, of Jackson, Wyoming, came by his Type 3 affliction honestly: He got it from his parents. Mom Inmire purchased this ’73 Squareback, and it became the family “ranch car” in Australia. Eventually, Mom (or “Mutti,” as Australians call their moms) gave the car to Morgan, who restored the car from 2011 to 2015. Most of the work was done by Vintage Vee Dub in Campsie, New South Wales, Australia. The engine and transmission were rebuilt to stock specifications. The interior needed a full refresh, so the seats were reupholstered in Australian-pattern basket weave, and a white perforated headliner was installed. If you were living in Australia in 1973 and wanted a Volkswagen Squareback, this is what you would have bought. Morgan calls this car Mutti in honor of his Mom. Take a look: How many differences can you spot between this car and its U.S. counterpart?

Next, we come to Edna Joy, Morgan’s ’73 Fastback, with electronic fuel injection and an automatic transaxle. The car’s name pays homage to the original owner, Edna Cairns, who bought it new in Reno, Nevada; and to a Ms. Joy, who purchased the car from Edna’s son with 15,000 miles on the odometer. Morgan bought the Fastback from Ms. Joy in 2021 with 71,500 miles on it. Amazingly, this car is all numbers-matching.

Edna Joy is one of the few U.S.-delivered Type 3s with a fully automatic transaxle. If you want to restore a later Type 3, take a good long look at these two cars — this is what you’re aiming for. Congratulations, Morgan: Your Threes are number one!

Friday night before the Funfest, the city of Effingham hosted a welcome event downtown with live music, food and drink vendors, and, of course, Volkswagen enthusiasts.