Type 3 1500/1600 (1961–1973)

As the saloon offers relatively little storage space with its split boot, the eagerly awaited estate version of the Type 3 arrives at just the right time in late winter 1962: for the first time, Volkswagen has a Variant in its price list – a name that still stands for generous space today. With a load capacity of up to 1,200 litres, the Variant can comfortably accommodate everything that the saloon previously had to leave behind. There are two payload variants with 375 and 460 kilograms. The 460-kilogram payload variant has a compensating spring that braces a torsion bar, which then reacts with corresponding torsion as the load increases. The new estate concept is a hit: in some years, the Variant becomes the most-built version of the Type 3 series.

This year sees the introduction of the Volkswagen 1500 S (Special). With two carburettors instead of just one, the power output of the 1.5-litre boxer engine in the 1500 S model rises to 54 PS. Wolfsburg's most powerful, fastest, and most expensive model is extremely popular right from the start: its acceleration in third gear is extremely sporty and its official top speed is 135 km/h – although this can be significantly exceeded by slipstreaming or driving downhill. However, the much-praised turbine-like revving ability also has a downside: the engine sometimes reacts critically to constant revving and over-revving.

The maintenance interval is extended to 10,000 kilometres, and measures to improve engine service life are incorporated into series production. Workshops now have to use their special tools more frequently to adjust the twin carburettor system in the S variant: adjustment and synchronisation are considerably more complex than the corresponding procedures for the N version, which remains unchanged. In 1964, 122,000 Type 3 vehicles are sold.

The 1500 S model is replaced by the 1600 L, whose 1.6-litre engine offers the same power (54 PS) but is less stressed thanks to the increase in displacement: regular petrol is now sufficient. Disk brakes are now fitted on the front axle.

A hatchback version is now available as an additional body variant: the 1600 TL ("Touring Sedan"). The almost coupé-like body is initially intended as a replacement for the notchback sedan but is received rather cautiously by buyers and the press. Access to the 250-litre boot via the small flap – the rear window is fixed – is considered less than ideal. In the mid-1960s, expectations in the competitive environment are more focused on a hatchback saloon with a large tailgate. Unlike the notchback saloon and Variant, the TL is only available with the smaller 1.6-litre boxer engine.

The single-key system is introduced. The electrical system now has 12 volts, which is a major improvement as it prevents stray currents from occurring.

New features include the dual-circuit brake system, the external fuel filler flap, and the optional automatic transmission. From this model year onwards, a fully automatic transmission is available, as in the Type 1 in conjunction with the double-jointed axle. The headrests are integrated into the front seat backrests, and the fuel filler neck is moved to the right-hand side panel.

In all variants, a semi-trailing arm design now replaces the rear swing axle. This makes the Type 3 one of the best-handling vehicles in the European mid-range class when it comes to taking corners without any problems. Only in the variant with the increased payload is the swing axle still surprising with its independent behaviour.

An interesting option in this model cycle: the Volkswagen is available under the name 1600 LE/TLE with electronic fuel injection, which has already been available on the American market for a year. At this time, this type of mixture preparation is aimed at reducing pollutants, as new regulations in California are taken into account in its development. The performance and consumption figures remain the same.

The Type 3 is redesigned once again: in line with American standards, the front is extended by twelve centimetres and the bumpers (known as "railway tracks" on the Beetle) are reinforced and raised. The front and rear bonnet lids have to be modified, which also increases the boot capacity. The rear lights are enlarged. The Volkswagen 1600 has improved crash performance thanks to the changes to the body and floor.

In the 1600 TL, the storage compartment behind the rear seat is modified, increasing the storage space by almost 60 litres. The L models are equipped with a fresh air fan and reversing lights.

The four-spoke steering wheel is now padded, there is now a steering column lever for easier operation of the windscreen wipers and washers, as well as a central plug for computer diagnostics in the engine compartment.

A development that is still valid today: instead of the side parking lights, a new type of parking light switch is installed. The front parking lights and taillights can be selected on one side via the light switch.

Production of the VW Type 3 is discontinued in July. A total of over 1.4 million saloon cars and 1.2 million Variant models were produced. At the time, Volkswagen was the only manufacturer to achieve such a high proportion of estate cars in its total production – today, this is not unusual for mid-range vehicles in Germany.