In my experience, a VW Bug has enough trouble pulling its own self around
Not in my experience spending 6 years behind the wheel of a 1600cc (later 1700cc) Bug. It ran up the mtns of Western NC and SW Va without any problems at all.
Amen. Back in the heyday of the Bug, weren't the speed limits all 55?
Maybe, but mine would cruise all day at 70mph and top out at 100 (over-sized rear tires effectively raised gearing, I don't recommend 100 in a Beetle). Even my friend's 1200cc '65 model would maintain 60 through the SW Va mtns. True, they aren't the Rockies, but the 1200 only had 25hp or so.
I66, I81, DC Beltway, I440 around Raleigh (all fast and heavily traveled interstates), I never lacked the necessary power to get out in front of traffic. I did keep mine well maintained though. Even the defrosters worked...
That said, I wouldn't try towing with a stock Beetle. Power isn't the issue, braking is. Front and Rear non-power assist drum brakes don't stop as well with a heavy load, much less while towing stuff.
Chris