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View Full Version : Yet another nice Bug - Paul Newman's this time

GS Ragtop
02-10-2012, 9:57am
In the mid-60's, Paul Newman bought a stock VW convertible and converted it into a mid-engined beast complete with a 351 Cleveland motor and GT40 running gear. This was a cost-be-damned sleeper build.

Here's a pretty cool site showing the history and mechanicals of the car: The Paul Newman V8 Beetle (http://www.oldbug.com/newmanvw.htm)

Cool story -- I had never heard of this car until running across this story. :cool:

http://www.oldbug.com/IMG_0934.JPG

http://www.oldbug.com/IMG_0827.JPG
vtelvr
02-10-2012, 9:59am
That works.
island14
02-10-2012, 12:02pm
That works.


:yesnod:



:cool: Newman had a love for cars and racing that made him seem..

Just like the rest of the guys :seasix:
73sbVert
02-10-2012, 12:23pm
I toyed with the idea of putting in a Buick V6 into a bug many years ago, along with a body kit.

Never went any further though. :(
The_Dude
02-10-2012, 12:24pm
$250,000 I guess bug prices aren't as low as I thought.
Bucwheat
02-10-2012, 3:16pm
Lot of work and money.
snide
02-10-2012, 8:54pm
:cool:

Just showed the pic to my little guy. He then punched me and said "punch buggy".
73sbVert
02-10-2012, 9:07pm
:cool:

Just showed the pic to my little guy. He then punched me and said "punch buggy".

:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

Good on him!!



:cert:
LilRedCorvette
02-10-2012, 9:25pm
:yesnod:



:cool: Newman had a love for cars and racing that made him seem..

Just like the rest of the guys :seasix:

He indeed was. He used to race at my home track (Summit Point Motorsports Park)...well before sponsorship $, etc. A former old-time club member of mine was also there to race. Paul yelled over to the club member, "Hey, can you help me unload my cars?!" Very down to earth, was just 'one of the guys' for sure. :yesnod:

His car # was usually his age :lol: and sometimes he would instruct. Would have loved to have been a student of his. :cool:

Lyme Rock closed down for him one day so he could enjoy the track one last time :sadangel: RIP Paul, you were one of the good ones...

Edit - Found the Paul Newman stories thread on my forum: Paul Newman's final ride (http://www.nvcorvetteclub.com/nvccforum/showthread.php?2705-Paul-Newman-s-final-ride&highlight=Paul+Newman)
Giraffe (He/Him)
02-10-2012, 9:48pm
"punch buggy".
We called them "Slug Bugs"