Dean Kirsten, Hot VWs Magazine Technical Editor and Mark & Paul Schley, long time VW racing veterans from California, visited the Volkswagen Museum of Puerto Rico last April 26, 2010. The trio of VW experts flew from California to San Juan to be part and document a very special Volkswagen and Porsche show that was held at the Plaza Las Americas shopping center in San Juan, and stayed over and extra day just to pay a visit to see and document Dr. Norman's collection in Yauco, in the southwestern part of the Island.

After a week-end in San Juan at the Flower Power event, Kirsten and the Schley's thought they had seen it all, but nothing prepared them to what they witnessed at Dr. Norman's museum. Upon arrival, they were greeted by Dr. Norman himself and his lovely wife Diana, after the customary welcome, they entered the main building exhibit that houses over 150 automobiles.

While Kirsten devoted his time to photograph and document, the Schley Brothers chit-chatted with their hosts, exchanging VW stories. Once Kirsten was done with the vehicles, he requested that two particular cars be moved outside for a special photo-shoot session.

The selected vehicles made up a quite eclectic duo, both basically hand-made projects, one a "safari" type Beetle, and the other a fifties hot-rod type Bug. Kirsten claimed that he had heard about these two cars and had longed to be able to photograph them for the magazine, but that he had no idea that the actual vehicles were in San Juan.

The "safari" car, painted Caterpillar yellow, is a real piece of art and engineering. A special elongated engine lid that is hinged at the bottom was fabricated, giving the vehicle a heavy-duty appearance. A roof-top frame serves as a seat for two; custom canvas doors mount on special hinges and contribute to the "jungle" safari theme.

The fifties hot rod look alike comes complete with moon disc hub covers; chopped top; suicide style doors, moon gas tank; hydraulic suspension; hood mascot and an elongated engine lid which is basically a VW front hood mounted in the back. Other modifications include: air conditioning; special seats and frame; a late model style radio and a pair of outside NACA type ducts.

Needless to say, Kirsten and the Schley Brothers enjoyed their visit and time spent with Dr. and Mrs. Norman at the Museum and full coverage of their stay in Puerto Rico will appear perhaps in a September issue of Hot VWs magazine.

After the obligatory goodbyes, the visitors joined their tour guides, Luis Mariano Muñoz and Jaime I. Del Valle for a fast trip to Salinas for a well deserved late lunch of seafood by the sea.