Pflaumer: The Beetle Limousine

Have you heard of the Pflaumer, a limousine built based on the iconic beetle? This masterpiece was conceived in the second half of the 1980s, in São Paulo, by Ingo Pflaumer, with the project and coordination of the designer Antonio De Mitry. The transformation was impressive and, to this day, it is considered a unique piece in the Brazilian automotive universe.

If you are passionate about cars and unique stories, get ready to discover all the details of this very special creation and understand why it continues to fascinate classic vehicle enthusiasts.

The Origin of the Project

What makes the Pflaumer so special is its origin: a 1985 Beetle, a widely known and loved model in Brazil. But, contrary to what is expected of a Beetle, this vehicle was transformed into a true luxury limousine, with about 1.10 meters of additional length.

The transformation required careful planning and high-quality execution. The bodywork was cut at the B-pillar to lengthen it, while the structure was reinforced and two additional support columns were installed. In addition, all control cables and pipes, including the brake and fuel systems, were lengthened to accommodate the new design.

Luxury and Exclusivity

Inside, the Pflaumer was a work of art. You would be enchanted by the finish in caramel leather It is 15mm thick carpet, which guaranteed sophistication and comfort. The vehicle also had:

• Partition between driver and passengers, with a communication glass.
• Minibar, perfect for celebratory moments or longer trips.
• Air conditioning, essential for comfort in a tropical country like Brazil.
• Additional folding stools, offering extra space for passengers.
• Ray-Ban electric windows with film, adding a touch of modernity and exclusivity.

In addition, the car used lights and other components from Mexican Beetle, standing out for its attention to detail and the search for pieces that add value to the project.

Power and Performance

The Pflaumer was not only beautiful inside and out; it also had remarkable performance. Its 1,800 cm³, with a double-barrel carburetor, provided greater power than the original model. This adjustment was essential so that the vehicle could handle the increased weight and size, without compromising drivability.

Another detail that draws attention are the wide-width chrome wheels, which not only improve stability, but also give an even more robust and striking look.

A Gift for Tancredo Neves

The Pflaumer project was conceived with a noble purpose: to be offered to the then president-elect Tancredo Neves on the day of his inauguration. Unfortunately, fate took a different turn, and Tancredo passed away before the gift could be delivered. This fact adds a historical and emotional weight to the vehicle's history.

Despite this, the limousine continued to be admired as a unique example of extreme care in its construction. Other workshops even tried to reproduce the feat, but the results fell short of the quality and refinement of the original Pflaumer.

Rarity in the Present Day

If you were to come across a Pflaumer today, you would probably be looking at an automotive relic worth a fortune. Limousines like this, with such exclusivity and history, are invaluable to collectors. In the classic car market, unique examples often fetch prices that exceed R$ 1 million.

This vehicle is a reminder of how Brazilian creativity and talent can transform even a popular car like the Beetle into an icon of luxury and sophistication.

Conclusion

Looking at the Pflaumer, you realize that it is much more than a limousine based on the beetle; is a demonstration of ingenuity, style and history. Designed for a landmark moment in Brazilian politics, this limousine represents a unique chapter in the history of national motorsports.

If you’re a fan of classic cars, the Pflaumer is a perfect example of how customization can take a car to a whole new level. And who knows, one day you might get the chance to see this masterpiece up close, reminiscing about a time when the Beetle transcended its role as a popular car and became a symbol of elegance and exclusivity.