Around 160 Volkswagen “Brazili” cars remain in the Kurdistan Region, decades after the model became one of the most recognizable vehicles on local roads.
The German-designed Volkswagen was produced in Brazil and became known in Kurdistan as the “Brazili.” Iraq first imported the model in 1983 under a trade agreement with Brazil. Between 1983 and 1987, Iraq reportedly imported about 120,000 vehicles.
The car became especially popular during the 1980s and 1990s. For many families, owning one was a sign of financial comfort.
Today, around 100 remain in Erbil, while Duhok has about 32. Sulaymaniyah and Halabja together have around 27, while Zakho has only three or four.
An Erbil-based owners’ group has 45 members. Its members maintain the cars, exchange spare parts and organize activities with similar groups in Kirkuk, Nineveh and Baghdad.
Mechanic and collector Nariman, who owns four of the vehicles, said spare parts are still imported. He also repairs and restores older models.
The Volkswagen Passat LSE version uses a four-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual gearbox. Owners say some cars have had their original engines replaced with 1.8-litre Volkswagen Jetta engines when the older units became unreliable.
Nariman said the car consumes about eight litres of petrol per 100 kilometres. He added that it runs well on normal fuel available in the Kurdistan Region.
Despite their age, well-preserved examples still attract buyers.
Prices vary greatly depending on condition. A highly preserved example can sell for about $17,300. A reliable car in ordinary condition may cost around $4,000 to $4,500.
At the lower end, some examples have sold for only $700. Demand continues because collectors consider the model simple and cheap to repair.
For enthusiasts, the “Brazili” Volkswagen remains more than an old car. It represents a familiar part of Kurdish social history and motoring culture.
