1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia

Description

The VW Beetle was among the most versatile platforms in history, and this bright 1971 Karmann-Ghia is a great opportunity to own an icon. Who would have thought that a graceful, upscale 2-seater would be born from the utilitarian, functional Beetle? Yet here it is, complete with an overbuilt motor that makes this VW a hero for the guy sitting behind the wheel.

The bottom line is that the Karmann-Ghia looks like a million bucks, I don't care which engine is powering it. The graceful lines, the muscular curved rear fenders, and the slender pillars that make the roof almost look like it's floating are all masterstrokes of '60s design. This one has been freshened as needed, with a repaint in the early 2000s that's starting to show a little age. The light blue color is original to the car and one of the most archetypal selections used on the Karmann-Ghia. The sheetmetal is in good condition, with decent gaps and a surprising feeling of solidity for a car in this price range. The slender chrome bumpers are in nice shape, and all the unique trim pieces shine up well, making this a car that still draws appreciative stares wherever it goes. And for the enterprising hobbyist, it's a chance to add a little sweat equity and add value at the same time. Believe me, the engine will make you want to step it up in a big way.

They also did a great job disguising the Beetle's interior appointments, and the white and gray cloth and vinyl seats look upscale and comfortable. It's not quite stock, but the look isn't too far from the original and it would take an expert to spot all the changes. The dash is lower than on a Beetle, featuring three gauge pods housing the speedometer, fuel gauge, and clock. The carpets have been replaced at some point in the past, and there's a modest back seat that's probably OK for kids on short trips. Custom door panels were whipped up to match the seats, so it all has a very consistent look, and even the white boot on the shifter lends a bright custom twist. There's an updated AM/FM/iPod stereo head unit in the dash and the forward trunk is furnished with a reproduction carpet mat and a full-sized spare.

Power comes from a fresh 2275 cc air-cooled flat four engine from Chick Performance Racing, and the sound is instantly recognizable. Performance is downright impressive in the lightweight Karmann-Ghia coupe, and the engine compartment is extremely well detailed with lots of new parts. There are twin carburetors, new wiring, a fresh generator, custom pulleys, and trick air cleaners that really make it look finished. The battery tray is a little scabby, but you could clean that up in a weekend and really make this engine bay sparkle, but perhaps you won't even care after you experience the way it runs. There's a decent hit of torque at any speed and it seems to want to pull forever. The 4-speed manual transmission shifts about as well as a VW can, and the brakes are firm and easy to modulate. Custom aluminum wheels give it a sporty demeanor, and thanks to its light weight and modest size, those 165/80/15 radials deliver decent grip and a smooth ride.

VW fans are rightly proud of the Karmann-Ghia, and we see the market for these cars heating up. This one is very affordable and with a bit of effort, could easily be taken to the next level. Call today!