1972 Volkswagen Karman Ghia Cabriolet

The name, Karmann Ghia has an interesting origin being derived from the coming together of German and Italian influences through its respective coachbuilders and stylists. The German car manufacturer, Volkswagen, adapted the chassis and mechanics of the Type 1 Beetle and handed it their fellow German coachbuilders "Karmann" to create hand-built and high-quality bodywork to the design of the Italian styling house "Carrozzeria Ghia" who unashamedly adopted styling cues from Chrysler and Studebaker. A prototype was unveiled that was well received by critics and surpassed all expectations, and the end product was to become an immensely popular and successful little sports car. In 1958, Volkswagen and Karmann came up with a convertible version, and although the required additional strengthening made the convertible heavier and, therefore, slower than the coupé, that didn't seem to matter to those who admired this fashionable new look and, of course, America loved it!

This right-hand drive, Karmann Ghia was delivered new to Florida in 1972 where it was later customised with Suicide Doors and blanked windows. In 1984, the car was bought as a present for the previous owners wife and underwent a complete restoration from the ground upwards by her husband and a close friend, who were skilled mechanics. During this process, the engine was fully rebuilt and the car was fitted with adjustable suspension, alloy wheels, and a more modern wiring loom set up with modern fuses. It has also benefited from significant expenditure on a Porsche front headlight conversion, full custom interior, dashboard and door cards, new carpets throughout, and an imported German Mohair roof.Following its import into the UK this year, the car has covered only a few thousand miles since its extensive restoration. With recent UK registration, all taxes and duties paid, and a fresh MoT to accompany its history file of original documentation; today's offering is tastefully modified and will be an asset to its new owner's fashion credentials.