From the first dune buggy created in the 60s, today’s dune buggy has certainly come a long way. Today, dune buggies are made of all sorts of materials with all sorts of design. What’s more, it is now easier to make your own dune buggy as dune buggy parts are now widely available. And while these vehicles are also available on the market, you can also easily have your own customized dune buggy with the help of dune buggy builders.

The Dune Buggy

Also called “sandrails” or “beach buggy”in England, a dune buggy is usually defined as a recreational car with large wheels and wide tires designed for driving in sand dunes, whether on the beaches or deserts. It actually is a modified vehicle with an engine on an open chassis. The changes in the car from its original make are to increase its power-to-weight ratio to create better traction on the slippery sand dunes.

In some parts of the world, it had become some sort of a legendary status symbol that divides those who are fashionably in and those who are clueless about cars.

The First Dune Buggy

Some people say that Bruce Meyers was the first to create a dune buggy (first called the ‘Manx’), although just as many people would also dispute that because there were vehicles resembling the dune buggy before the ‘Manx’.

However, what is certain is that the 1961 Volkswagen Sedan was the first donor vehicle to be specifically altered to a dune buggy. VW Frames were used to create the casing for the other engine parts. There were other Volkswagen models (Types 2, 3, and 4) that did not fit the bill, although parts from these models (engine, wheels, instruments, and transaxle) were and can still be used.

The engine’s placement at the back of the Volkswagen was a big advantage because the weight improved the traction. Other advantages include the air-cooled engine and the absence of a radiator.

Craze

Back in the late 50s and the 60s, there was a sand car craze that seemed to spread throughout the world, especially among the young people. However, in the U.S., like much of the world, tough motor vehicles laws virtually wiped the buggy off the streets. The restrictions include closed fenders on tires, no cut frames, and no exposed engines.

In the 90s, the dune buggy got enough attention again from prestigious magazines and fans alike. Today, a fiberglass version is stirring up interest on the dune buggy. This is made by a company that had withstood the whole history of the ups and downs of the buggy.

Dune Buggies Today and Buying Dune Buggy Parts

Today, dune buggies are available on the market, although many enthusiasts buy their own separate chassis, engines, steering wheels, tires, and axles. Some of them make their own chassis.

The good news is that if you want to make your own dune buggy or customize your vehicle, the task is now easier as dune buggy parts are available on the market. You can do it yourself or get someone do it for you.

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