Thanks Seagull.
Yes I am familiar ith your ex machine - have seen it on various sites. I did change rear tyres from 296/50 to 275/60...lowering the revs at 100kph about 200 rpm. It did make some difference but not significantly. And i am aware that you cant change the final drive.
But given that auto is my only desire there is little else I can do. Reversing an auto box final drive in another set up like Subaru hasnt been done to my knowledge.
The issue here now, having had all advice on this thread, is whether an alternative engine be it a lightweight diesel, V twin Kawasaki or other will give me the increase in power I desire and secondly be more economical to a significant degree. Bearing in mind I am stuck with 3,100 rpm at 100kph. I am personally hopeful I can achieve the two objectives- its just I want to get it right.
On this gallery web site there are conversions done to beetles.
http://www.gerrelt.nl/other-conversions.html
The SAAB v4 (SAAB 95) also seen in the US Ford Taurus is a compact engine with low down torque and fits snuggly in the beetle engine bay and weighs a low 110 kgms. Chromed up would look ok.
The Polo 1.4 3 cylinder diesel turbo seen all over Europe does the same.
A V-twin would have the sound, easy buying at a wrecker, adapter plates for Harley has been achieved in the past so at least we know it has been done, and water cooled engine should not be a problem. Would be very light too.Would also look the best.
Thanks for your reply and experience seagull. I'm not going to give up just yet.
If and when I do then I'll head for a Subaru 5 speed manual with reverse diff or stick with what I have correctly sorted.
Its an odd feeling at the pump filling my i30 diesel for $70 after 950kms and spending the same filling the trike after 350kms
www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXwh4z8d66o
SUBARU ea81, VW auto, Detour camper
My ex girlfriend said "its me or a trike". Her big mistake.