What was the horsepower output of the original 1938 Volkswagen Beetle's engine?

The original 1938 Volkswagen Beetle’s engine produced 24 horsepower.

That output came from a compact, air-cooled, four-cylinder boxer engine mounted at the rear. The 1938 series model used an engine of about 986 cubic centimetres, paired with rear-wheel drive and a lightweight body designed for economical motoring rather than high-speed performance.

The figure is sometimes confused with the 22.5 horsepower reported for earlier experimental prototypes. Those test vehicles formed part of the development program, but the finalized 1938 model is commonly described as producing 24 horsepower. Later Beetles gained progressively larger engines and higher outputs as road speeds, safety requirements, and customer expectations increased.

The rear-mounted, air-cooled boxer layout remained one of the Beetle’s defining engineering traits for its entire production life. It avoided the need for a conventional radiator and helped preserve cabin space, while the low, flat engine configuration contributed to the car’s distinctive mechanical identity.