Powerful ideas from top nonfiction
Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.
Start your free trial
Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens summary
John Gunnell
Brief summary
The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens by John Gunnell is a comprehensive guide to the iconic car brand. It covers the history, technical details, and unique features of classic VW models, making it a must-read for car enthusiasts.
Topics
Table of Contents
The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens
Summary of key ideas
The Evolution of Volkswagen Cars
In The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens by John Gunnell, we embark on a journey through the evolution of Volkswagen cars. Starting with the inception of the Beetle - the car that started it all, we learn about its unique design, its production and the impact it had on the automotive industry.
Gunnell takes us through the early history of Volkswagen, explaining how the Beetle was developed by Ferdinand Porsche at the behest of Adolf Hitler. However, it was after World War II that the Beetle truly began to gain popularity, becoming a symbol of post-war recovery and economic prosperity.
The Beetle's Global Influence
The Beetle's popularity extended beyond Germany and soon became a global phenomenon. In the US, it was embraced by the counterculture movement and became a symbol of rebellion. Its simple design and reliable engineering made it a favorite among car enthusiasts, and its affordability made it accessible to a wide range of consumers.
Gunnell also delves into the various iterations of the Beetle, such as the Karmann Ghia, the Type 3 and the Thing. He discusses how these models, each with their unique features, helped Volkswagen maintain its position as a leading car manufacturer.
The Expansion of the Volkswagen Family
Beyond the Beetle, Gunnell explores the diverse range of vehicles that make up the Volkswagen family. He discusses the iconic Type 2, also known as the 'Bus', which became a symbol of the 60s and 70s counterculture. He also includes the Type 181, a military vehicle that was later marketed to civilians and dubbed 'The Thing' in the US.
Furthermore, the book covers Volkswagen's foray into the luxury car market with the introduction of the Phaeton, and its venture into the SUV market with the Touareg and Tiguan. Gunnell also discusses the brand's performance vehicles, such as the Golf GTI, which have garnered a loyal following among car enthusiasts.
Modern Innovations and the Future of Volkswagen
As we approach the present, Gunnell highlights Volkswagen's commitment to innovation and sustainability. He discusses the development of the e-Golf and the ID.3, as Volkswagen aims to transition to electric mobility. He also touches on the brand's advancements in autonomous driving and digitalization, showcasing its dedication to staying at the forefront of technological progress.
In conclusion, The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens offers a comprehensive overview of Volkswagen's rich history, from the humble beginnings of the Beetle to its current position as a global automotive powerhouse. It is a must-read for anyone with an interest in classic cars, automotive history, or simply a passion for the iconic Volkswagen brand.
How do we create content on this page?
More knowledge in less time
Read or listen
Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
Find your next read
Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
Shortcasts New
We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.
What is The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens about?
The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens by John Gunnell is a comprehensive guide to the iconic cars that have captured the hearts of millions around the world. From the legendary Beetle to the stylish Karmann Ghia, this book delves into the history, design, and technical specifications of each classic Volkswagen model. Packed with stunning photographs and fascinating insights, it is a must-read for any car enthusiast.
The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens Review
The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens (2019) is a comprehensive guide celebrating the iconic Volkswagen cars. Here's why this book is a gem for VW enthusiasts:
- It showcases a wide variety of classic VW models, from the Beetle to the Bus, offering a rich exploration of Volkswagen's history and evolution.
- The book delves into the design innovations and engineering milestones of classic Volkswagens, providing a detailed look at what makes these cars truly special.
- With captivating photographs and detailed descriptions of each model, the book ensures an engaging and informative journey through the world of classic Volkswagens.
Who should read The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens?
Enthusiasts and collectors of classic Volkswagen vehicles
People who appreciate the history and design of iconic automobiles
Those looking to learn more about the cultural impact of Volkswagen cars
Categories with The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens
Book summaries like The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens
People ❤️ Blinkist
Sven O.
It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.
Thi Viet Quynh N.
Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.
Jonathan A.
Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.
Renee D.
Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.
People also liked these summaries
4.7 Stars
Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
33 Million
Downloads on all platforms
10+ years
Experience igniting personal growth
The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens FAQs
What is the main message of The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens?
The main message of The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens is a comprehensive guide to classic Volkswagen models and their history.
How long does it take to read The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens?
The estimated reading time for The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens is a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in around 15 minutes.
Is The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens is a must-read for any Volkswagen enthusiast, offering rich insights into the iconic brand's evolution.
Who is the author of The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens?
The author of The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens is John Gunnell.
What to read after The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Complete Book of Classic Volkswagens, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Big Data by Viktor Mayer-Schönberger and Kenneth Cukier
- Physics of the Future by Michio Kaku
- On Intelligence by Jeff Hawkins and Sandra Blakeslee
- Brave New War by John Robb
- Abundance# by Peter H. Diamandis and Steven Kotler
- The Signal and the Noise by Nate Silver
- You Are Not a Gadget by Jaron Lanier
- The Future of the Mind by Michio Kaku
- The Second Machine Age by Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee
- Out of Control by Kevin Kelly