PoloDriver

The name ‘Yellow/Black Racer’ should mean something to any Volkswagen enthusiast. Although we’re undeniably Polo fans here at PoloDriver.com, we’re proper Volkswagen enthusiasts, too, and so were intrigued when news of the Beetle GSR came in, as it is allegedly inspired by a ‘legendary’ variation of the original Beetle. Launched in 1973, the 48bhp ‘Yellow/Black Racer’ (or ‘Gelb/Schwarzer/Renner‘, hence GSR) was based on the 1303 S Beetle, and was only available in a yellow and black colour scheme, with the bonnet, bootlid and external trim painted matt black.

Inspired by the 40th anniversary of one of the sportiest original Type 1s, Volkswagen has today announced the Beetle GSR at the Chicago Auto Show. Like its predecessor, the Beetle GSR will be the sportiest Beetle in the current range. Limited to 3500 units, only 100 are earmarked for the UK, with deliveries expected in the autumn. Powered by the outgoing Golf GTI’s 208bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, the 2013 Beetle GSR updates the 1973 GSR’s look by having not only a black bonnet and hatchback, but also a darkened roof and exterior mirrors. There’s even special ‘GSR’ decals along the side of the car, to leave fellow road users in no doubt as to what you’re driving.

Black ‘Tornado’ 19-inch alloy wheels are four inches larger than the Yellow/Black Racer’s, while the 2013 Beetle GSR’s boasts R-Line sports seats, a sports steering wheel, an R-Line dash pad, a GSR gear knob and metres of contrasting yellow stitching. A far cry from the token sports steering wheel and sports seats of the 1973 original car. The new version even has a numbered edition plaque and can be ordered with either a six-speed manual or DSG gearbox. Top speed is 142mph; 0-62mph takes 7.3 seconds. If the yellow paint is too loud for you, then Platinum Grey and Black can also be specified, but really, why would you? UK pricing and availability have yet to be confirmed.