Published: August 11th 2020

"Cal-Look" and "American-Style". You may have seen these terms used throughout our website and wondered "what exactly do they mean?". Lets start by noting that they are NOT sub-models of the vehicles. Rather, they refer to 2 popular styles of outfitting your classic VW. Both styles are purely aesthetic, with preference solely determined by the owner.

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A "California Looker" is a air-cooled VW modified to a popular fashion which originated in 1960's Orange County, California. It is popular with many enthusiast because it is cheap (minimal trim on vehicle) and easy to to work with. Cal-Look bugs typically have aftermarket wheels, painted or T-bar bumpers, and run one-piece window conversions. Cal-Look VW's are usually lowered or "slammed" for cruising, following a lead from lowrider & classic car clubs of Los Angeles.

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"American-Style" refers to the original fashion and trim which came on air-cooled VW's destined for the US market. American-Style VW's were offered with window seal trim, running board molding, side panel molding, and chrome bumpers to compete with the flashy American cars in the 50's and 60's. Generally, American-Style VW's are more expensive to restore due to the added cost of extra components and require more time for trim installation.



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Cal Look Seals

  • -Popular Aftermarket Window Seal.
  • -Requires NO window trim.
  • -Install glass to Seal -> Seal to body.

American Style Seals

  • -Original Window Seals for US market.
  • -Requires trim for proper installation.
  • -Install glass to Seal -> Trim to Seal -> Seal to body.