I have 2 engines and 2 gearboxes to choose from for my buggy and I’m confused as to which one to choose. Now remember my knowledge of VW’s is very small, I’m learning as I go along. I have a 1300cc engine and gearbox which I know to be good. Problem is these are still in a car so the car will have to be stripped if I want to use them.

I also have a engine and gearbox that came with the chassis, problem is I know nothing about them. They are an unknown quality. But they do have two positives. The gearbox is already on the ground and only needs a quick clean and it could do into the buggy. So first question, should I trust this unknown gearbox or should I go to the extra effort and strip the doner car and use a good gearbox.

Second issue is the engine, again I know nothing about it, I know its a 1300cc case but the guy I bought it off thought it was upgraded to a 1600cc. Now my maths is bad but 1600cc is always better than 1300cc in my book. Is there a way I can tell if it bas been upgraded. Codes on heads? Length of pistons? etc etc…..

If I know its a 1600cc engine its worth the extra effort but if its a 1300cc I’ll stick to the one I know is good.

I have decided after a long nights sleep thinking about it that I’m going to use the gearbox from the donor beetle so that means more stripping. Hopefully it will be worth it in the long run.