For fans of open-air driving, the optional sunroof for the 1964 Volkswagen Beetle was made of metal, and not fabric, a nice upgrade from previous years. It was also one of the few upgrades Volkswagen made to its popular Beetle for '64. Other improvements included a horn operated by two buttons instead of a metal half-ring, larger front turn signals, and a new vinyl material for the seats. Other elements of the Beetle remained unchanged. The Bug was still powered by a 40-horsepower, four-cylinder, 1200cc (1.2-liter) aluminum-magnesium engine. It was linked to a four-speed manual transmission operated by a long shifter. The vehicle also came with independent front suspension and telescopic shock absorbers. Other standard features for the '64 Beetle included sun visors, coat hooks, assist straps, an automatic windshield washer, an overhead light, and luggage space under the front hood and in a three-foot carpeted compartment behind the rear seat.