Random Rides in a 517 whp VW bug

Reactions from people riding in a 500 hp VW bug.
If you want to know more about reversing the rotation of the Subaru transmission to use for a rear engine application, check out www.subarugears...

[@Smurphenstein]

I think the most sleeper thing in this bug is John himself. If you pulled up next to him at the lights you would think he was some accountant on his way to work, until he flashed that grin of his.

[@bl3627]

hahahahha

[@overthehilldill3626]

And then sucked you up his tailpipe so viciously you end up in another dimension.

[@tystyx615]

Right... haha He goes from accountant to Venom in .03 seconds flat! Lmao

[@housepumpinpc3983]

I actually gotta laugh at John's facial expressions when he gets in those gears. It's like the devil horns came out.

[@campervanbug7658]

Bugs do that

[@bo-_t_-rs1152]

The woman at the end said it all 😂

[@TATER_24]

She is a race car driver

[@bertbroeder1832]

Nicole Johnson! She is great!

[@dustinwebster6349]

Here's a video of the woman at the end actually driving it...Yes, John was that nice and let someone else drive what's truly an exotic car that he hand built so much of. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKulYomZZs1gisU

[@cosmicsurfer5911]

Hell yes, perfect ending. 👍

[@tystyx615]

He let her drive it and she scared the shit out of him! lmao He told her DON'T DO THAT! LOL

[@DavidSmith-sw5kg]

I can clearly see you respect your creation. The seriousness and concentration in your determined expression while you drive is that of a jet fighter pilot. I would feel completely safe in the passenger seat. Well Done 👏👏👏 🧊❄️🧊❄️🧊❄️🧊❄️🧊❄️ 35 miles from dry ice doesn’t seem that far to travel, to get you where you want to be. Thanks again for your videos.😎👍

[@sweepphreak]

I was thinking the same thing not everyone is capable of zoning in like that its an innate ability that few posses at least to the degree I witnessed here he is just dialed in because you can see the passenger's doing all kinds of never mind with their hands and making sounds which would distract most mortals

[@subarugears]

Thanks for the kind words John, we're so glad you're enjoying your Subarugears transmission, as well as scaring a bunch of other people :-)

[@cobusvanniekerk83]

What tipe of subaru gearbox do I use for a beetle

[@subarugears]

@@cobusvanniekerk83 ty75 5 speed AWD

[@cobusvanniekerk83]

@@subarugears Thanks

[@robertvance1873]

I loved Nicole's reaction at the end. Lol 😂😆😆😂 I wish I could have a ride.

[@fls360]

Love your attention to details and approach to logical builds. Your demeanor and knowledge in achieving end goals are top notch. Thanks for posting!

[@stevesweb]

Wow, I have watched you drive it but watching riders really gave me a look into the HP this bug has! Thanks for a great video!

[@depleteduraniumcowboy3516]

Found your channel from the last rider. I am a fan of sleepers. And IMO, they way to do it right, is to go light. I love the sound of the engine, the turbo, the dog box, and of course the laughter of your passengers who are having the time of their lives. I know that feeling. I've been in a few fast cars. I love when you feel them pickup and start to get a little squirrelly or in some cases really squirelly and out of control as long as no one gets hurt. Wheelie bars might unsleeper this superbug a bit. Watching this video, my wife came in and mentioned that it is early and maybe I shouldn't be laughing so loud! It is just so much fun I cannot help myself. So I'm gonna watch your other superbug vids and get in more trouble.

[@JT-dj9hc]

WOW ! Crazy amount of light switch power and super short wheel base...ONLY a driver can handle that car...others will be in the ditch....I LOVE THAT CAR 😉

[@jimreynolds5906]

John has driven me around in the bug before. It is faster than you can possibly imagine. I think we went faster than any of these rides. One of the guys said it: “This is raw.” What an experience. What a great idea for a video! Puts you right in the front seat with him.

[@als57chev76]

What an incredible little sleeper VW! Well Done.

[@travissmith5525]

The smile on your face and everyones reactions=Priceless!

[@ovalwingnut]

517HP ? Looks like that power was down real low too. Revolutionary physics. Cheers!

[@whoeverit9087]

The last clip.. Watch how fast the car behind him can reverse... LOL

[@cdjhyoung]

I had to laugh at how many of the riders were groping around trying to find a Jesus handle on the dash of that car. John - I think you succeeded on all your goals. Those grins - of horror- from the right seat are priceless.

[@herraman2244]

Out of all the facial expressions yours has got to be the best. The more you excelorat the crazier you look.

[@kbberlin7281]

Thanks for the virtual rides John! What a fun car you have.

[@dustinwebster6349]

The reactions are the true tell of how that car really is. EVERYONE flinches with the first hit of throttle. So crazy cool to watch even experts in the field react with "holy shit" responses! Keep em comin JR!

[@JohnReynolds661]

Hey Dustin, thanks!

[@Delibro]

Yea I think that's a big portion of this build, you just *feel* the power so much more than in a standard sports car with same power.

[@vdubjunkie]

Some really good reactions. No surprise that Nicole had some of the most entertaining. Such an inspiring car!

[@kathyguinto4585]

My mom whom is no longer living,I lost her 12 years ago at 93.If she was alive today,she would of said,John slow down before you get us killed,she'd be scared shitless,but me,I'd love it.The speed,the power,this thing is absolutely fantastic,holy crap!!!!.John M Guinto

[@jstnthrguy]

Owning a stock 1978 convertible super beetle this would be my next step. the reactions don't need any words. thanks john

[@CeroAshura]

Big props to your engineering work but above all you driving abilities to keep it somewhat under control whilst pushing it.

[@Longing-for-home]

I like that this car looks pretty standard on the outside.. regular looking wheels, no spoilers or obvious modifications.. and then he puts his foot down.. 😂

[@doca9357]

man, just watching that rear end drop under acceleration, it moves

[@waterbourne9282]

Hilarious facial expressions. I want one. Thanks for posting.

[@mrcomenttoe2009]

Every time he drove the car it just made me smile dude great car great build nice video

[@MrRajay2U]

The reactions are priceless, but it feels different from the passenger seat.

[@wirebrush]

Master builder of two of my favorite vehicles KOH cars and super sleepers! I freaking love it!!

[@stevenkerns1736]

The look on your face, such a proud Papa. Nice

[@erhabik]

What an amazing build, John! That 517HP sure is like having your foot on dynamite (like you say)! Freakkkkkin awesome, man!!

[@strshooter7399]

My 1st car was a 72” Baby Blue Super Beetle I purchased in Spain used while I was in the USN in 75”. It was a fun 1st car for me. Watching everyone’s faces made me laugh so hard! Wow, the ultimate sleeper (if you’ve every driven a stock Super Beetle you know how slow they really are). Great video of a great car you’ve put together! 🤗👍😎. Thanks for the laughs and joy your video has brought! 🤗

[@joebob227]

Man, you've built a beast! My first car was a 73 SB, almost the exact same color as yours. It got me through high school and so many memories with that. I'm amazed you were able to source stock parts because the SBs are tough little monkies getting parts for. Love it!

[@CaskStrength777]

Woman at the end was stunning, and her blunt reaction was hilarious! Every person's reaction made me laugh a lot, this puts a smile on my face even though I'll never get to ride it 😁 Well done, that's just fucking nuts 😆

[@DensityMatrix1]

She has her own channel. She drives it in one of the episodes.

[@karlkascha1261]

John, you are such a craftsman. Watched your build come together. I'm surprised that the engine hasn't sprung a head gasket leak yet. Can't believe that the transmission is holding together with all of that horsepressure. You are having way too much fun.

[@JohnReynolds661]

It's pretty stout in the head gasket department. Definitely nudging the transmission.

[@karlkascha1261]

@@JohnReynolds661 I hope that you made it easy to work on. Lol. Everyone that I've ever known with a Subaru has had a head gasket go out. Maybe it has to do with the extreme weather conditions that we experience here in Central New York State. Can't remember where you are located, but you should consider bringing the bug to the Syracuse Nationals in mid July. It would be a big hit. Largest car show east of the Mississippi.

[@kylereese4822]

@@JohnReynolds661 Would be a good laugh going up to this.... kzbin.info/www/bejne/qXyxh5qah9mtgdU&ab_channel=PetrolPed Ps his other car is a Beetle which has been upgrade from 600bhp... and a few Land Rovers, Porsche's, 308...

[@newtonfirefly3584]

@@karlkascha1261 Perhaps You haven't noticed the State vehicle plates-tags ?? [CA] He was as Irwindale on the track in other videos too. Have You seen his Corvair LS4 transverse-mid-engine build yet? Am looking forward to see that one perform! Sincerely

[@karlkascha1261]

@@newtonfirefly3584 It never registered in my brain. I had a brain tumor, so it wouldn't. Yeah the Corvair is neat too, but there is something about an underpowered VW bug getting a super infusion of HP. Lol

[@beachcomer007]

The look on john's face when he gets on it is priceless!!!!

[@theflyingfool]

Big grin here! I can see why you really are scared of it! Loved the various reactions of your passengers too!

[@danielgeng2306]

I don’t know who these people are or what company they work for but I love every one of them !

[@ejharrop1416]

Very cool and watching the cars go to a dot in the rear window is off the charts. Should takeTom Cruise for a ride and see if he still has a need for speed. Thank you for sharing

[@motardktm640]

Awesome video. I love your creation, you are a skilled man! The last clip when it was fighting to hook up was the best, that lady got the ride of her life LoL

[@richardmarkham8369]

I love the way you grit your teeth John! Your car is EPIC!

[@witwolfdebruin]

This Beatle let every person smile ! which is not a bad thing LOL very cool build

[@sourshoes1465]

You can see the driver become one with his machine as the look of madness overtakes his face.

[@curtisphilumalee1447]

The reactions are priceless. MasterCard could never touch this………. I laugh at the nervous expressions turning into mile wide smiles

[@markcarter78]

By far of all the cool cars on the you tube yours is at the top. Nice work

[@WSBach]

Amazing. The most perfect sleeper I have seen so far. What a wonderful video. More smiles per views ...😂😂

[@THGISH_USOz]

You built a BEAST of a ride John, Your the Man! 💯👊🏾😂

[@r4ygunauto86]

I second this ☝️

[@schschaefer1]

Hi John, rgds fr Germany. Reminds me of my trials to bring my y 70 1500/44 up to 52 hp but yours is really ways greater! Keep on going....

[@kevinlarrick3285]

I don’t know where you’re at as in the state but I live in Ohio. Damn I’d like to ride in that car. You were just so calm and then people just look terrified. That is one awesome bug. Great job on that car.

[@bigleague6723]

Looks like a freaking blast John!

[@dylanmason1152]

Nobody got our of his beast without a smile on their face! I love it!

[@Extremegaz25]

John when the see the car in the last part of the video disappearing you understand the warp speed. Great job by the way.

[@kapa4929]

I like your facial expersion as u try to tame that German gremlin.

[@frediefarmer]

Love this bug…. Awesome build John

[@tim_bbq1008]

The second to last girl really laid it down...STOP. That bug is a monster.

[@pennyfarthing6847]

That must be the most satisfying feeling to build a car this quick and bulletproof.

[@jeffinillinois]

Looks like it hooks up funny twice with the last person.

[@evanaltman9286]

That old man gets bells palsy on those pulls lol

[@lindakoppens3104]

I have christened this "Frankenbug" . I love it.

[@ericwilkes238]

John Reynolds outstanding I admire you skills.

[@johnfry9010]

This reminds me of a high school friend of mine who blew the engine in his fairly new Buick G/S , he bought a new L88 and put it in the Buick , It was a monster . In those day's cars had crazy horsepower but the Buick with a 4 speed was off the chart VIOLENT , Very cool I am a new SUB !

[@dans_Learning_Curve]

Nice sleeper! I see to drive and shift requires certain tongue placement!

[@hemiacplurge3572]

Mr. Stacy's forearm flex on the awshit bar cracked me up. "Please don't tear off, awshit bar. Just keep me in the seat, please."

[@austintyler7991]

John Reynolds super nice John. Add 200hp & change gears to stay in each gear longer. So much time used to shift because power comes so quick. lol Great job building your ride. Stay safe Brother.

[@Whafe]

Am loving this beetle journey, the monster angry beetle is like Rammstein on steroids… Love ❤️ It

[@hackfabrication139]

'This is raw...' That sums it up for me.

[@robertebob8810]

Before synchromesh gearboxes we used to double de clutch. No more gear teeth breaking off and collecting on the bottom of the gearbox. But I am old .

[@BillyReed68]

You better be careful in that car John. A set of five point harnesses and helmets wouldn't hurt either.

[@geometerfpv2804]

He's accelerating hard, but he only goes to 110mph or so on these runs. He seems very careful.

[@FixItStupid]

@@geometerfpv2804 way too many driveways... for even a first gear Pull ... Helmet Roll Bar & Headache... Safety first ... I saw two incidents that made my heart hold ..

[@hughjass1835]

😂 you ever seen a bug after a 100 mile per hour wreck?

[@Melvin_RongDong]

This puts a huge smile on my face

[@larryhogan3-16]

Now that's some cool 😎 stuff bro. ... You've created Herbie the Monster 👍

[@paulballard4243]

John you are a genius, a mad scientist afraid of his own creation.

[@stickydh]

That OS handle needs daily replacing😂

[@HHHfanTWO]

I need to build my bug like this asap!!! 🔥🔥 wow this is amazing!

[@lennartswenson2690]

A smile on every face! Impressive!...

[@mikeroullier6875]

Hell yeah John!!!! That thing gets up and boogies!!!

[@eduardos.9834]

Man, this is awsome!!! Every time I watch a video from you, I just imagine how scaring it can be to stay in the passenger seat. And I would like to have a chance 😂😂😂😂

[@waynewilliamson5719]

It's just so relentless 😯 Really intrigued whats getting built next. Would take something to better this.

[@kevingoodrich3050]

Great video.... Fantastic build !!

[@oldschool8432]

Love seeing everyones reaction. Hey John we have the same last name

[@mitchmichalec7619]

This thing is a freaking amusement park ride. 😂😂😂 It sounds like an air brake every time he makes a shift.

[@Jack96993]

Love the sound of that blow off valve! My 96 911 993 Turbo had 600hp 595 ft lbs torque @ 1 bar on 93 pump gas I got pretty much the same reactions from my passengers Crazy thing is it will pull hard all the way to 200 mph.......not that l ever did that : )

[@patrickkitcoptersupremelea7525]

la bête est dans la belle 😀😀😀 ça, c'est une caisse qui déchire ! bravo 🤗🤗🤗

[@StephenDanielAddeo]

This just makes me want to see the corvair done. I enjoy this, but im excited.

[@65cj55]

A friend done a Subaru into a VW Bus like that, it was crazy.

[@TaylorMadejdm1975]

It's probably how dude's face looks when he's getting some too LOL 🍺🤣

[@teknokilr6074]

That last lady was the funniest - good video

[@dustinwebster6349]

Here's a video where John let's that last lady actually drive it! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKulYomZZs1gisU

[@shakaworld3D]

@@dustinwebster6349 Thanks

[@teknokilr6074]

@@dustinwebster6349 Excellent

[@FixItStupid]

Yes He Did

[@tiannandkaine1662]

So good !!! Made me cry tears of joy

[@dmorgan28]

Hey John that is awesome. I mean…that thing is quick. I’m subscribing!❤️👍

[@ntoxic8edx]

My mr2 spyder weighed 2150lbs at 635whp mid engine and was rediculous i can only imagine a bug. 😳😳 having a 62 bug i bet its scarey ass they are very lightly built. Awesome build 🤘🤘

[@royjaber571]

Did you tune the stock 1zz engine?

[@ntoxic8edx]

@@royjaber571 no built k24 honda swap with gtx3582r turbo and air to water setup. The 1-2zz motors are trash. With k swap and hondata you can still pass obd2 emissions.

[@paulevo511]

"Man..that is violent...very violent!" says it all. I'd love to have a ride in this monster.

[@newtonfirefly3584]

@John Reynolds; John i've been following Your Corvair LS4 transverse mounted mid-engine build, thus came upon these videos of this VW SB with a built Subaru engine. This vehicle is certainly Outstanding and Exciting ! Am still looking forward to more with the Corvair. My last location living in the USA was within LA, SoCal, thus am somewhat familiar with many of the areas there from the SF Valley to the S.Bay and L.B.,around LA country, out to Orange County to the East, Pasadena and South to S.D. County to the Southern border and East to S.B., somewhat North above LA to Simi, and up the coast too. From the videos am not certain or clear which area You are in, but the hills to the east are noticeable and certainly noticed You racing this VW at Irwindale. My 'guess' is that You many be on the East side of the City, perhaps out toward Pasadena, but am not clear or certain and could be very wrong too; perhaps on the east side of Orange County ? [Emelia, also has posted some private drag racing there too, as others] There is another fellow, which modified his '65 Corvair with parts, engine, transmission, interior, etc. from his 1999 GTP Supercharged 3.8 L V-6 . Maybe You know him or saw it too ? Within his vlog video, the ares look somewhat similar to within Yours too. All The Best and Much Success in Your Quest, Health and Well Being. Sincerely

[@JohnReynolds661]

There are a few supercharged transverse 3.8L conversions. It's a good candidate and fits a lot easier. Thanks.

[@newtonfirefly3584]

@@JohnReynolds661 Thank You fro Your reply, John. Yes, the 3.8 L V-6, would certainly fit easier, but the LS V-8, will be more powerful with a supercharger, turbo(s), blower or any fuel combination too. others have accomplished major power with turbo K20, 24, GR 4, 6, 8 too in MR2 [all three versions], then the Fiero is another similar platform too with a more modern suspension. Your Corvair build is especially interesting and desirable to me. There would/could be some weight adjustments too, if desire, which You probably have though of too. In my current residence location [nearly 29 years], We have no racing locations, extremely limited access to any of the equipment, facilities, parts, vehicles, etc. to do any of this type of work, modifications, etc. The Gov't is more Authoritative, limiting, restrictive and controlling than CA, Europe, etc. - nearly CCP, but still noticeably less - mostly - We don't have as much surveillance, though all communications is - but then everywhere they manage that too. There is NO Constitution, similar to UK, Australia, NZ, Canada, etc., NO Individual Rights, "Good 'OlBoy - friends of the MedEENA-Gov't business/marketing/import/etc. Though WE have other Greater benefits, despite the Gov't - the essence of Our location, land, access,connection with Our Creator. There are many ideas, concepts, projects imagined, visualized, thought and developed within me. My best available are the electronics, which some could be used, applied and integrated with and within mechanical too. One primary development, and improvement which leads to near innovation, is more complete and thorough modular thinking. [my expertise in engineering was within satellite communications - most there in LA area (if You are following me)] - combined with NSA 1985 public statement - they collect all air-wave communications - You can figure - add InQTel+ partnerships - WhaLA!! 🤨] What are Your planned uses for the Corvair build ? Drag, Road, Rally racing or such? All The Best and Much Success in Your Quest, Health and Well Being. Sincerely ☺

[@JohnReynolds661]

@@newtonfirefly3584 Street use and a little drag racing. Actually owning and driving the car doesn't interest me as much as building it.

[@newtonfirefly3584]

@@JohnReynolds661 Thank You for Your reply John. It does seem from Your vlog posted videos, YOu very much enjoy the challenge, development and use of Your creativity, ingenuity, imagination, visualization, and craftsmanship, including developing more of Your fabrication and welding skills, among others. Also imagine driving this vehicle, and Your others are enjoyable, including giving other some experience too. It seems clear to me, from the vlog with giving rides to others, You 'tailored' and adjusted the drive and ride experience to the passenger. Sincerely

[@tonyholliday6492]

Wow ,what an experience that must have been

[@Canadiancarguy1987]

I can't wait to see John's Corvair!!! that car looks like it will be a Ripper! when he gets it finished ofcourse!

[@TSGEnt]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="883">14:43</a> Ok, this was by far the best reaction. 😆

[@debbiebrantley61]

I love this video 😂 the expressions he gets on his face are priceless

[@grumpyoltimer7523]

I don't know anything about VW's but that thing is bad ass

[@67VWForever]

You have that ice cooler now now you have more power

[@FixItStupid]

Yes

[@drgnner6028]

Just beautiful

[@peterday3253]

Good one. That's fun. Ending is perfect. Thanks.

[@vhm14u2c]

Wonderful monster bug you have. Dig your expressions too! ;-)