fastback

sanders36051 · Post by **sanders36051** » Sat Jun 28, 2008 2:12 pm

Hi all I am new to the VW culture and was wondering about the fastback particular the early ones looking on the Samba site I only find squarebacks are the fastbacks hard to find or just not in demand ?

LesTroyer · Post by **LesTroyer** » Mon Jun 30, 2008 9:49 am

it goes in cycles, sometimes there are lots of fasties on the list, other times almost none.... They are the "least" desireable of the four type 3 styles. Personally I like them. The "best" years are 66-69

I've seen two or three fastbacks on craigslist here in seattle over the past few monts..

LEs

raygreenwood · Post by **raygreenwood** » Mon Jun 30, 2008 2:26 pm

I have never particularly liked the squarebacks. The fastbacks handle better (marginally) look better and are easier to see out of. Ray

jasle · Post by **jasle** » Sat Jul 12, 2008 3:42 am

I also like the fastback but any time I have one wifey wants to keep it for herself. When I have a square she won't drive it...therefore I get to drive it. So I am now buying a square.
I've had several of both...Cannot really say I ever noticed a diff in handling but I suppose slightly lower cg due to not having so much roof line up high?

Clatter · Post by **Clatter** » Wed Jul 16, 2008 11:59 am

The fastback is the fine, rare jewel of the type3 line.
Squares are mom's station wagon, and notches are just plain.

Take advantage of this while you can,
Because most people are not (yet) aware of this fact...

raygreenwood · Post by **raygreenwood** » Wed Jul 16, 2008 1:44 pm

In the early 90's.....I could buy fastback...not running...no dents...for between $75 and $300. Wagons were about the same or less.

I started out with type 4's (my first car was a 411). I went to type 3's later...and back to type 4's.

The interior shape and dash of the type 3 was quite elegant I think. The lines were very clean on this car. The wagons are nice looking too...but I had a couple and just liked my fastbacks better.
The front suspension design I think is a major improvement over what came on te hbeetle. I think the engine cooling system was nicer as well...even if it was not as efficient.

I had a hard time owning a type 3 and a type 4 at one time. They both require the same amount of work except parts are harder to find for the type 4.

The type 3's are great cars. Sadly...jillions got scrapped in teh 70's and 80's before anyone would even bat an eye.

I spent $400 dollars in 1989 for a 1966 fastback with Euro marker lights, a 1500 S wagon with twin carbs ...like a 1966 or 68. And a 1969...all for $400. None ran..most were junk because they sat in a field for 15 years. I parted them out. Sad. Ray