In a message dated 2/22/00 6:34:09 PM Pacific Standard Time,
jcain@MINDSPRING.COM writes:

<< I thought the notchback and fastback came out in '68?  I bought a
 brand new 1968 fastback in '68 and thought I remembered it being the
 first year for them.  It was my first "new" car, one of only five
 brand new cars that I have purchased in my lifetime.  Also my first
 VW.  I really loved that car, traded it in on a 1970 Westy.  After
 that, it has been Westys ever since.  Of course I've been through a
 lot since then and memories start to mesh.  The mind is a terrible
 thing to lose.... >>

From what I remember, all the Type 3 Variants were all available around 1963
(maybe 62) I've owned a 66 & 67 Fastback, a few Variants S wagons
(squarebacks), and a couple of pre65 Notchbacks. Used to fool around with
Type 3's alot for the same reason I like Vanagons. Most people didn't like
them. Pmail me if you need I can help you with any other info.