1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia

The Type 14 (Karmann Ghia) debuted at the October 1953 Paris Auto Show as a styling concept created for Ghia by Luigi Segre. In the early 1950s, Volkswagen was just producing the Type 1 (Beetle), but with an increase in post-war living standards executives at Volkswagen proposed adding a halo car to its model range, contracting with German coachbuilder Karmann for its manufacture. Karmann in turn contracted the Italian firm Ghia, who adapted styling themes previously explored for Chrysler and Studebaker to a Beetle floorpan widened by 300mm.

In contrast to the Beetle's machine welded-body with bolt-on fenders, the Karmann Ghia's body panels were welded on, hand-shaped and smoothed with English pewter in a time-consuming process commensurate with higher-end manufacturers - and resulting in the Karmann Ghia's higher price.

The Type 14 was marketed as a practical and stylish 2+2 rather than as a true sports car. As they shared engines, the Type 14's engine displacement grew concurrently with the Type 1 (Beetle), ultimately arriving at a displacement of 1584cc, producing 60 hp. In 1970, larger taillights integrated the reversing lights and larger wrap-around turn signals. Still larger and wider tail lights increased side visibility and at the same time large square-section bumpers replaced the smooth round originals. In late 1974 the car was eventually superseded by the Porsche 914 and the Golf/Rabbit based Scirocco.

This stunning 1971 example was imported from USA in 2013 by our vendor as a solid and mostly complete car that had been taken off the road in 1985 by its first and allegedly only owner. Upon arrival on our shores the car was subject to a complete nut and bolt restoration by Greyhound Cars in Wolverhampton.

The body was stripped to its bare bones and what little rust that was found was attended to before the car was repainted in the resplendent silver it is presented in today.

Laid up in 1985 by the previous US owner due to engine problems a new engine was necessary and the decision was made to fit a new 1600cc engine in to the car. At the same time the gearbox was refurbished and the two were eventually mated back together. Similarly the running gear of the car was subject to a comprehensive refurbishment throughout to ensure that the car stops and handles as well as the day it left the factory.

Inside, the car was subject to a complete retrim including a new dashboard, period radio and wood rimmed steering wheel along with fitment of new carpets throughout.

Costing over £15,000 in restoration bills, the car is presented with photographic documentation of the restoration process along with various invoices pertaining to the restoration and a record maintenance book stamped up until 1985 when the car was first taken of the road.

This gorgeous little car has covered a mere 200 miles since its restoration and as such is now ready to be enjoyed by its new owner for many more miles to come.