Volkswagen Puma GT(E) – the sports car from Brazil
Kombi Warriors
At Kombi Warriors, we specialize in classic car restorations, and our team is particularly skilled in restoring iconic vehicles like the Volkswagen Bus. We are also experts in fiber glass restorations, which require unique techniques and expertise. Our team of experienced technicians uses only the highest-quality materials and methods to restore these vehicles like the Volkswagen Puma GT(E) to their original condition, paying close attention to every detail to ensure a flawless finish.
The rich history of Volkswagen Puma GT(E)
The Volkswagen Puma GT(E) is a rare and unique classic car that was produced in Brazil during the 1970s. The vehicle was built based on the Volkswagen Beetle and had a striking fiberglass body. Due to its limited production numbers, the Volkswagen Puma is highly sought-after by collectors and car enthusiasts today.
The history of the VW Puma begins in the 1960s in Brazil. At that time, there was a high demand for sports cars, but the import of expensive European cars was not affordable for many. That’s why a small Brazilian car manufacturer called Puma decided to develop its own sports car based on the reliable and affordable Volkswagen Beetle.
Although the exact production figures are not known, it is estimated that around 22,000 units of the VW Puma were produced between 1970 and 1995.
Although the Puma GT(E) is based on the Volkswagen Beetle and has the same engine and chassis, it is not an official Volkswagen model.
Sourcing services
Are you looking for a specific Volkswagen Puma GT(E) or any other rare classic vehicle? We offer sourcing services to assist you in locating the car of your dreams. Our team has an extensive network of contacts in Brazil.
VW Puma GT(E) restoration
In our own garage, we restore VW Pumas GT(E)´s to perfection. Our team will bring the fiberglass back to its original condition. Contact us today to discuss how we can assist you with restoring your Puma GT(E).
Logistical services
Exporting classic cars from Brazil can be challenging due to complex logistics and bureaucratic procedures. Our team has extensive experience in exporting classic cars from Brazil like the Volkswagen Puma GT(E).
Examples VW Puma GT(E) restorations
Whether you are looking for a restored Puma GT(E) or any other fiberglass model such as a Miura car or Bianco car, we have the expertise and resources to successfully complete your restoration project. Below you can view some of our VW Puma restoration projects, both finished and in progress.
Volkswagen Puma for sale
At Kombi Warriors, we have an exclusive selection of Volkswagen Pumas for sale. Investing in a restored Volkswagen Puma is more than just purchasing a car; it’s a chance to own a piece of automotive history. These vehicles not only evoke nostalgia but also have the potential to appreciate in value over time. With their limited availability and attention to authenticity, our restored VW Pumas are sought-after by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Puma GT
The history of the Brazilian car manufacturer VW Puma started with the production of the Volkswagen Puma GT in 1964. The sports car from Brazil initially used components of the German car brand DKW (precursor of the German car brand Audi) and therefor this first models were also known as the Puma DKW. Only around 135 units were produced. It was even awarded by Quatro Rodas magazine as the best Brazilian car project.
A few years later the components of DKW were replaced by the chassis of Karmann Ghia and the mechanics of Volkswagen. As a consequence the front engine and front-wheel drive of the Volkswagen Puma car GT changed to a rear engine and rear-wheel drive. The wheelbase was reduced to only 2.15 meters, which gave it great agility. Like most sports cars, it was low, with long hood and short rear. Just behind the side windows, in the rear column, there were air intakes for engine cooling. The second generation Puma GT (P2) and the first Puma´s GTE are known by the name ´tubarão´ which means shark in Portuguese. The refers to the air intakes to the engine which resemble to the gills of a shark. The models with a 4-cylinder engine are called Puminhas.
This second version of the Puma GT was manufactured between March 1968 and 1970. The whole design of this beauty was based on the Lamborghini Miura and 423 units were manufactured in total.
Puma GTE
In 1970 the Puma GT was displayed for the first time at an international event, at the Ibero-American Fair of Servilha, in Spain. Foreign legislation required some safety changes, such as: side lamps, double brakes and a headrest on the seats. Other improvements were also introduced to the car such as a 1600 engine. From that moment on the adjusted Puma GT is known as Puma GTE where the letter E refers to exportacão (exporting).
In 1971, Puma presented a new variant in its range of bodies: the Puma GTS, the Spider (cabriolet) version of the Volkswagen Puma GT. It was a convertible with a canvas roof or a hard top, although the latter option was the least accepted by the public.
Puma ended production of the GTE in 1980. This was the highest production model of Puma, totaling 8,705 units.
In the early 1980s, the manufacturer began to face difficulties and ended up closing its activities in 1985. Since then, different companies have acquired the brand and relaunched it, but none of these initiatives has been lasting.