in 1969 Volkswagen sought to launch the Formula Super Vee, a category meant to bridge the gap between Formula Vee and Formula 3

the VW 1600 engine had already proven itself in various racing applications, however, Gene Beach unlocked the engine’s potential in 1969.

The SV16 featured a mid-engine layout, which provided optimal weight distribution and handling characteristics. The suspension system was another highlight, designed to provide exceptional handling and control. 

A major improvement over the standard Formula Vee, which used VW suspension, while the Formula Vee was less expensive to build and race, the Super Vee had the potential to keep up with Formula Ford and other open-wheel cars.

the Beach SV16 debuted at the Daytona 24-Hour race in January 1970 

https://thegentlemanracer.com/2025/07/project-car-beach-sv16/