The Volkswagen Type 3 was a compact car produced by Volkswagen from 1961 to 1973, designed to expand the company's product line alongside existing models like the Beetle and Karmann Ghia. Introduced at the 1961 Frankfurt International Motor Show, the Type 3 came in two variants: initially known as the Volkswagen 1500, later also as the 1600, and offered in two-door notchback, fastback, and station wagon (Squareback) body styles in the US market.
Despite sharing the Beetle's wheelbase, the Type 3 was engineered as a larger vehicle with a focus on increased cargo and passenger space. It featured Volkswagen's signature air-cooled rear-engine configuration, rear-wheel drive, and body
