Distinctive VW engine sound?

ohekk · #1 (**permalink**) 07-25-2011, 01:27 PM

I know this isn't Cobra related however I know I'll get an experienced answer from you guys that I won't get from other forums that I visit.

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I've been asked: "What is that makes that distinctive VW engine sound?"

Some people (NOT me!) are keen to the different engine sounds of a Chevy, Ford or Mopar coming down the street. Some will even tell you if it's a BIG block or a small block.

Most anybody can tell the difference between a Harley and a Honda.

...and I'll guess that everybody can recognize that distinctive sound of a vintage VW.

What is that makes that unmistakeable sound?

xlr8or · #2 (**permalink**) 07-25-2011, 01:59 PM

Firing order, engine type, compression, power level, exhaust port design, exhaust system.....

CHANMADD · #3 (**permalink**) 07-25-2011, 02:04 PM

Mostly, its the engine cooling fan and then the loose cylinder heads

Ralphy · #4 (**permalink**) 07-25-2011, 02:54 PM

I'm partial to the sound of a car that makes those clackity clack sounds of no maintenance. You generally see them with low tires, dents and maybe a broken window. With some sort off worn slap out plastic in place. Painted red tape for a tail light cover.

Makes me warm and fuzzy knowing I try to maintain my wheels, Ahhhhh...........

This guy is good!
‪Amazing Car and engine sounds....WITH MOUTH! (Air Cooled VW, Subaru, Import/Drift Car + MORE)‬&rlm; - YouTube

crASH · #5 (**permalink**) 07-25-2011, 06:43 PM

I had a '65 VW in 1972, and now my next door neighbor (with multiple vintage Jags) for some reason recently bought a '66 VW. He had the engine completely rebuilt, and I remember what that unmistakable sound is. Whistling exhaust pipes. At least that is the unmistakable sound I always hear and remember.

*13* · #6 (**permalink**) 07-25-2011, 07:30 PM

I always think of a VW As 1/3 of a Porsche 917. I'm sure the sound is a combo of everything related to the design & execution of the running motor. Vw's also hav that short exhaust & no coolant to insulate any of the sound.

mreid · #7 (**permalink**) 07-25-2011, 07:33 PM

Air cooled boxer 4 cylinder with a targa exhaust. Yee Haw!!!

mdross1 · #8 (**permalink**) 07-26-2011, 06:03 AM

Funny a lot of us do have the ability to tell by hearing what most engines are.Some are very distinctive the old aircooled VW's,big block, small blocks,8 cylinder,6 cylinder,4,2,and 1.The very reason why Harleys and two cylinders John Deere tractors are sought after partly because of the sound.