There has always been a desire amongst a proportion of VW owners to create something which stands out from the crowd. As early as the 1950's, it was not unknown for enthusiasts to install an engine from a Porsche 356 in their Beetles, instantly doubling the horsepower and turning the humble Beetle into a wolf in sheep's clothing. Specialist tuning companies, such as Oettinger in Germany began developing engine conversions which achieved the same results but at a fraction of the cost and less complications.
After a time a whole industry was spawned which catered directly to the VW enthusiast who desired a fast bug. In the USA the industry grew to massive proportions resulting in enthusiasts like Dean Lowry of the famous EMPI company, building championship winning drag race cars which humbled the domestic V8 powered machines. Following this success on the track, a VW based street scene, with a network of shops and clubs in every town spread rapidly across the US.
By the end of the 60's the VW aftermarket industry had become a massive moneyspinner with new products being developed every year. Over the next three decades the industry has continued to grow to the point where it is now easier than ever for someone to create a truly individual VW which stands out from the crowd.