Yes the VW Fox was made in Brazil. The mechanicals are really based on the Audi Fox/Dasher. The 4 speed was the only transmission generally available, no automatic at all. The intake air box and exhaust manifold are intentionally restricted to reduce the HP of the 1.8L engine to keep it below the Golfs/Jetta's of the time. 

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Stuart MacMillan
Sent: Friday, December 7, 2012 8:49 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Friday musings on the pleasures of the "old car hobby"

Weren't they made in Brazil?  I remember when I found my used '84 at a dealership the sales guy had a used Fox on the lot and commented that selling a Fox was like "shooting fish in a barrel."  What happened to the "people's car?"  I guess it's a Kia now since the Chevy Vega (junk engine), Ford Pinto (cremation) Renault (!), Yugo (a real gem) and Suzuki are all gone. 

Stuart

-----Original Message-----

Subject: Re: Friday musings on the pleasures of the "old car hobby"

Have an 88 Fox used as a commuter car. Nice and simple. Just run!

Dennis
________________________________
From: Kim Brennan

I miss my 87 VW Fox.