Modern performance cars, while incredibly capable, often lose their charm at slower speeds. The Porsche 911 and BMW M5, for example, are so advanced that pushing their limits on public roads can be impractical or even unsafe. Enter the TBug, a meticulously crafted restomod of the iconic Volkswagen Baja Bug—a recreation that prioritizes simple, engaging driving experiences.
A Southern California Icon Reborn
The Baja Bug emerged in the late 1960s as an evolution of Southern California’s dune-buggy culture. These modified Volkswagen Beetles, featuring cut bumpers, flared fenders, and chunky all-terrain tires, quickly became a symbol of laid-back fun and rebellious style. Their striking appearance, often with exposed, air-cooled engines, transformed the humble people’s car into something far more purposeful. Notably, VW claimed that Beetle-based vehicles have secured the Baja 1000 victory more times than any other model – a testament to their off-road capability.
Twisted’s Vision: A British Touch on a California Dream
The project stems from a childhood fascination of Twisted founder Charles Fawcett, who was captivated by posters of California’s pastel landscapes and car culture, as viewed from his sister’s bedroom in Yorkshire, England. After years of specializing in refined Land Rover Defender restomods—a business started by identifying a niche for making 4x4s more pleasant to drive on-road—Twisted now enters the Baja Bug market with its “Special Projects” line. The company plans to produce just five TBugs annually, sourcing rust-free cars from the Western US and applying the full Twisted treatment.
“At the time, no one else was doing it. We were the first,” Fawcett notes, highlighting Twisted’s commitment to being a pioneer in the vehicle restoration space.
Restrained Luxury and Uncompromising Detail
Twisted’s philosophy emphasizes subtlety and quality. While delivering modern features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and premium sound systems, builds retain a stock or OEM-plus appearance. The company is known for its uncompromising attention to detail—it might take 12 hours to achieve the perfect door-shut click on a Defender. For example, speaker housings beneath a TBug’s seats are vibration-damped to eliminate unwelcome noises.
Performance and Handling with a Classic Feel
The TBug boasts a brand-new 1776-cc air-cooled flat-four engine—double the original Beetle’s power, producing around 80 horsepower. This engine is equipped with forged barrels and pistons, a counterweighted crankshaft, and dual Weber carburetors. A long-travel suspension system and an independent rear suspension contribute to the Bug’s playful handling.
A Ride Through Time and Slow Motion
The driving experience is immediately captivating. The scent of premium Scottish leather hits you upon entering, and the comfortable seating position sets the tone for a relaxed ride. The TBug’s forgiving nature allows drivers to easily find a flow state and sense the vehicle’s weight transfer. The experience allows for a deeper connection to the machine, feeling the weight transfer in exaggerated body motions and catching slides before they become spins.
“Driving nirvana, at least for me, isn’t a stomach-churning zero-to-60 run or a maniacally fast lap time. It’s a flow state, a sense of being in sync with a car and maybe even learning something in the process,” the author explains.
A Practical Antidote to Modern Performance
In a world where roads are often dotted with houses, potholes, and unexpected obstacles, the author asks: what’s the best car for going 40 miles per hour? The Baja Bug, with its forgiving nature and classic feel, might just be the answer, offering a refreshing contrast to the demanding performance of modern vehicles.
A Pricey Passion Project
The TBug is not without its quirks – the shifter is clunky, and the cabin can smell like fuel when pushed. More importantly, its $150,000 price tag raises the question of value. While a skilled builder could likely replicate similar performance for less, Twisted’s commitment to quality and exclusivity is likely to find a dedicated customer base.
Ultimately, the TBug represents a chance to rediscover the simple joy of driving—a chance to have fun without breaking the speed limit. The Baja Bug isn’t about relentless speed; it’s about a more engaging and accessible connection with a classic vehicle.
