In 1971, a new Beetle model featuring MacPherson strut front suspension and a redesigned front end was launched alongside the "standard" Beetle, which continued in production. Officially known (and marketed in Europe) as the VW 1302 from 1971 to 1972, and VW 1303 from 1973 onwards, but was most commonly known as the Super Beetle. The new stretched nose design replaced the dual parallel torsion bar beams which had compromised trunk space and relocated the spare tire from a near vertical to a low horizontal location. The redesign resulted in a tighter turning radius despite an approximately .75-inch longer wheelbase, and a doubling of the front compartment's cargo volume. As with previous models, air pressure from the spare tire pressurized the windshield washer canister, versus an electric pump.

1972 Super Beetles had an 11-percent larger rear window, larger front brakes, four rows of vents (versus two rows previously) on the engine decklid, taillights incorporating reverse lights, a four-spoke energy-absorbing steering wheel and steering column, and an engine compartment socket for the proprietary VW Diagnosis system.

Running with a horizontally-opposed engine with a four-speed manual transmission, this example has received cosmetic and mechanical restoration. The Super Beetle is finished in red with a tan interior and has a modern radio with CD player, factory wheels and caps, dual mirrors and appears to be well-presented in all areas.