Country Buggy
Clayton, Victoria · 1967–1974
Designed in Australia for Australia — the only VW model conceived specifically for local conditions.
Overview
The Country Buggy was a uniquely Australian creation, developed by Volkswagen Australasia in response to demand for a simple, rugged utility vehicle suited to rural and outback conditions. Built on a shortened Beetle floorpan with a 1200cc engine, it featured a fibreglass body, high ground clearance, and a fold-flat windscreen. Approximately 6,000 were produced at Clayton between 1967 and 1974, and it remains one of the most collectible Australian-market VWs.
Engines
| Code | Displacement | Power |
|---|---|---|
| 1200cc | 1192cc | 30 kW (40 hp) |
Key Changes by Year
Production Notes
The Country Buggy was exported in small numbers to Papua New Guinea and other Pacific markets. Its fibreglass body means survivors are often in better structural condition than steel-bodied contemporaries, though mechanical parts are shared with the Beetle.
Quick Reference
- Type
- TYPE 1-BASED
- Production Years
- 1967–1974
- Factory
- Clayton, Victoria
- Body Styles
- Open Utility (standard), Hardtop (optional canvas roof)
- Transmission
- 4-speed manual