It’s a little known fact that Brazil, the country, was named after the precious dye extracted out of her native trees. Interest was minimal at first, but the discovery there of a type of wood containing a valuable red dye, know as brazil, was treasured by the Portugese who quickly exported boatloads of the expensive stuff to Portugal and the rest of Europe.
The Brazilian rainforest, essential to the worlds ecosystem, also provides an appropriate link to this Volkswagen Concept. Brazilwood extracts yield bright crimson and deep purple colors, the basis for this comfy 2door.
The Brazilia, a model Volkswagen sold locally is poised for a big comeback. The ugly duckling of the local VW scene, is a rare bird these days. The styling, different to say the least, was designed by Brazilian Marcio Piancastelli, a courageous effort, the front headlights do bear a slight resemblance to a rare air-cooled prototype, the SP1 and the rear ties very well with the design of the 1st generation Golf.
The pointed nose suggest a more nautical theme perfect for this interpretation. The Brazilian Woodie is the ideal alternative Boracay Surf Company car. Instead of an early T2 Split Panel, or a T3 Square, the Brazilia can be a very enjoyable VW to wood up.
Taking a few styling tricks from the SoCal surf scene, this VW Brazilia is measured and fit from the doors to the rear hatch with a dark red brazilian hardwood veneer. Once fitted, custom framing is masterfully done by a cabinet maker ensuring a smooth finish. A generous urethane stain protects the wood from typhoons and monsoons. A bright “Sunset Red” House of Color “Brilliance Series” urethane topcoat is sprayed on the hood and fenders, while a pearl white top and windshield posts adds a little class.
The door panels, twin Bucket seats and the stock rear seats are reupholstered in red vinyl with white piping, with a set of embroidered jusi seat covers are reserved for formal functions.
Styled as a woodie, the interior boasts more timber than your average daily driver. Wood-grip steering wheel, wood shift knob, wood console, wood speaker boxes. Ultra-durable Abaca Carpet is used throughout and a modest audio-video system provide just enough samba.
Porsche 2-liter rims dressed-up with orange-red accents, and with hi-performance radials brighten up the package and provides excellent grip on the slippery stuff.
An otherwise rebuilt IRS suspension, steering, brakes, transmission, and DP 1600 engine with a dual exhaust provide just enough power and economy for everyday use. Take care of her and she’ll run forever.
