Hi James,

Great questions! The simple answer is no. Up to 1965 the front suspension was a link pin style and the spindles and front wheel bearing are completely different than the ball joint style front end that you have on your 1971. If you bought drums from a 1966-1967 Bug or 1973-1974 VW Thing (part # 131405615A), these would fit directly onto a ball joint drum spindle (part # 113405311ERE & # 113405312ERE) you would also need to find some used drum backing plates, front brake shoes (part #269) and wheel cylinders (part # 113611057B) and a front drum brake hardware kit (part # 113698162)

This all said, AC Industries has just come out with a new wide 5 disc brake kit that bolts right onto your disc brake spindles that you currently have on your Bug! This kit is so new we do not even have it offered on our web site. The kit includes the two wide 5 rotors, two new calipers bolts and washers. You would unbolt your existing calipers, remove the rotors and unhook the rubber brake hoses. Reverse the process by installing the bearings in the new rotors, and installing the rotors onto the same disc spindles. Bolt the new calipers on with the new bolts, install your hoses and bleed your brakes! You will get the great stopping power of disc brakes and the wide 5 bolt pattern that you want. This new kit part number is # 498440 and the introduction price is $299.95 and that is with free ground freight in the lower 48 states. Because it is so new you will need to call in to order it at (562)633 4979. Tell the salesman that you got the info on the Ask Andy part of the web site! I do recommend that you also buy the wheel bearing and seal kit # 498490L

Thanks,

Andy