No matter if it suits (or not) the 'German Federal Mail Authority' which still existed by the time we are talking about, we will stick to the name 'Fridolin'. The story goes that the idea for this car originates from an employee of the Westfalia company. The car body parts from Karmann and VW are assembled there. This is exactly what the result looks like: something from each VW model. Someone like the mail authority who has special requirements regarding load capacity and door size should try to keep the costs at a reasonable level. That`s what they tried, but long tests with converted 'Goggo`s' from the Glass company revealed problems with the durability e.g. of the two-stroke engine. The VW chassis in the end proved a safe alternative. Rare old times during which an idea dating back to 1962 results in three prototypes in 1963 - and finally there will be five of them. After the necessary type tests and operating approval, assembly of the first 300 cars starts in 1964 and there will be more than 6000 of them in the end. The name is 'VW 147' or 'Special purpose - mail vehicle' (civil service language!) and will be on duty for more than ten years. There are two sliding doors and, depending on configuration, only one seat. Amazingly, a protection grid against load shooting forewards when braking is not available. From the rear Fridolin resembles the coach/transporter, in spite of lower height. The frame is from Karmann Ghia, the drive section completely from the Beetle. In front many up to then unknown glass - and car body parts are mounted, except the type 3 headlights. Driving a car 200 kg heavier than the Beetle, the 25 kW (34 HP) engine has quite a job to do. However, one can step in and out and load or unload that small delivery van in no time. There even is a compartement for small load in front. Rust precaution is no issue for that car which spoils the fun for car hobbyists. 04/10