Across showrooms and backlots in 1978, Volkswagen’s lineup captured a range of practical choices and regional tweaks that appealed to drivers from city commuters to hobbyist restorers. Model differences often show up in subtle trim, engine and market-specific details that matter when identifying a car or comparing specs.
There are 10 1978 Volkswagen Car Models, ranging from Beetle to Super Beetle. For each model the entries show Body style,Market,Engine (cc) & power (kW); you’ll find below.
How can I verify the original engine and power specs for a 1978 Volkswagen model?
Check the vehicle’s VIN/serial plate and engine casting or stampings against factory records and period brochures; the Engine (cc) & power (kW) column in the list gives the factory figures to match. If numbers don’t align, look for documentation like original registration, service invoices, or consult marque registries and enthusiast clubs for confirmation.
Did different markets get different 1978 Volkswagen models or engines?
Yes — emissions rules, safety standards and consumer preferences led to market-specific variants, so the Market column notes where each configuration was offered. When researching a car, use the market designation to understand expected features, available engines and how common a particular version is in your region.
1978 Volkswagen Car Models
| Model | Body style | Market | Engine (cc) & power (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beetle | Sedan | Europe,North America,Mexico,Brazil,Worldwide | 1,300–1,600 cc & 30–37 kW |
| Super Beetle | Sedan | Europe,North America,Australia | 1,600 cc & 37 kW |
| Golf (Rabbit in US) | Hatchback | Europe,North America (as Rabbit),Australia | 1,100–1,600 cc & 40–59 kW |
| Golf GTI | Hatchback (sport) | Europe,North America | 1,584 cc & 81 kW |
| Scirocco | Coupe | Europe,North America,Australia | 1,300–1,600 cc & 44–59 kW |
| Passat (Dasher in US) | Sedan/Hatchback | Europe,North America (as Dasher),South America | 1,300–1,600 cc & 44–59 kW |
| Passat Variant | Wagon | Europe,South America | 1,300–1,600 cc & 44–59 kW |
| Polo | Hatchback | Europe,United Kingdom | 895–1,293 cc & 25–40 kW |
| Derby | Sedan | Europe,United Kingdom | 1,093–1,293 cc & 30–40 kW |
| Brasília | Hatchback | Brazil,South America | 1,600 cc & 44 kW |
Images and Descriptions
Beetle
Classic rear‑engine two‑door Beetle (Type 1) remained a global staple in 1978. Simple, durable 1.3–1.6 L air‑cooled engines, recognizable by rounded fenders and oval/round rear window variations depending on market and year.
Super Beetle
Super Beetle (Type 1302/1303) featured updated front suspension and larger curved windshield in late 1970s US/Euro models. Mechanically similar to the Beetle but with improved ride; common 1.6 L flat‑four and distinctive front clip.
Golf (Rabbit in US)
Volkswagen Golf Mk1 was VW’s compact hatchback hit in 1978, sold as Rabbit in the US. Available in several petrol sizes, practical hatch layout and sharp, upright styling—an era‑defining compact family car.
Golf GTI
The original hot hatch: Golf GTI used a 1.6 L 110 PS (≈81 kW) engine, sport suspension and distinctive trim. By 1978 it was established as the sporty, driver‑focused version of the Mk1 Golf.
Scirocco
Giugiaro‑styled Scirocco coupe offered a sportier, low‑slung alternative to the Golf in 1978. Available with small‑displacement petrol engines, it combined sharper handling with hot hatch DNA in higher trims.
Passat (Dasher in US)
First‑generation Passat (B1) was VW’s mid‑size family car in 1978, sold in the US as the Dasher. Offered as three‑ or five‑door hatchbacks and saloons, it shared engines with the Golf lineup.
Passat Variant
Passat Variant estate brought wagon practicality to the B1 range. In 1978 it was popular with families and tradespeople, identified by its extended rear cargo area and hatch/tailgate configuration.
Polo
Small city hatchback, the Polo Mk1 was VW’s entry‑level car in 1978. Compact footprint, economical air‑cooled or small water‑cooled engines depending on market, easy to spot by its tiny proportions and simple styling.
Derby
Derby was the booted sedan version of the Polo, introduced to offer a small four‑door saloon alternative. Mechanically Polo‑based, it featured a distinct rear boot and slightly more formal trim for European buyers.
Brasília
Brazil‑market compact hatch developed locally and sold through 1978 with an air‑cooled 1.6 L engine. The Brasília combined simple mechanics with roomy interior for a small car, easy to identify by its boxy, flat‑rear design.
