Requesting Any Info On A '66 1200A Model

[scatpackbee]

Hello Beetle fans out there.
I recently inherited a 1966 Beetle 1200A from my best friend who passed away at the way too young age of 35 after a 5 year battle with brain cancer. My friend Andrew, had many exotic and desireable cars over his short life including 2 Porsche 911's at the time of his death, but this 1966 Beetle was the car he most charished and loved.
I am a car guy also, but mostly into 60's and 70's musclecars and don't know too much about VW Beetles.
I have noticed though that most 1966 Beetles came with a 1300 cc engine and am inquiring as to why Andrew's Beetle came equiped with a 1200.
This Beetle means a great deal to me, and I owe it to my friend to keep it in as good or better condition than he would.
Any information on the 1966 1200A (main differences from the 1300 model) would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks

[scruffy]

The 1200 was what is called the old 40 horse motor which was built starting in 61,? The original 40's are borelined so fine that they required no main bearings. They are not a motor to beef up, where the 1300 is a stronger case with bearings,can use single or dual port manifolds pict 28 thru 34 carbs 85.5 bolt on big bore kits without flycutting basically beefed up to approx. 1500cc

[scatpackbee]

Thanks for the reply Scruffy,

The 1200 is still the original and getting a little tired with 178 000 miles.

Would a 1600 be a direct bolt in replacement for the 1200? Can the original transmission be retained?

I realize that I would have to convert to 12 volt from 6.

I wouldn't mind a little more power if I am going to go through the process of rebuilding the engine.

[scruffy]

The 1600 is a direct bolt on to the transmission. The 1600 has a bigger flywheel that will rub on the tranny housing which you can turn by hand to cut clearance with the new flywheel. Now what I do is retain the 6volt flywheel and starter and bolt that on to the 1600 and use them. 12volts just makes her spin faster which is helpfull in the north country,and won't hurt it a bit,as long as you don't crank on it all day.also you can swap genny and keep her6 if you want.hope thi helps!

[scatpackbee]

Sure does,

Thanks for all the help.