1970 | Volkswagen Karmann Ghia 1600

General information
Model year: 2025
Registration number: DM-72-66

Technical information
Torque: 106 Nm
Transmission: 4 gears, Manual gearbox
Drive: Rear wheel drive
Acceleration (0-100 kph): 22,0 s
Top speed: 132 km/h
Empty weight: 860 kg
Dimensions (LxBxH): 419 x 163 x 132 cm

Interior
Number of seats: 4

Environment
Emission class: Euro 0

Volkswagen Karmann Ghia T14 Coupé 1970

- Recently completed “body-off” restoration (photos available)
- Engine overhauled by specialist (2016)
- Many maintenance invoices available
- Volkswagen museum certificate available
- Beautiful colour combination
- Valuation report 2024 available (worth €31,500)
- Distinctive wooden Nardi steering wheel
- Solid and reliable classic that has become increasingly popular in recent years

HISTORY/DOCUMENTATION
The Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: the sporty, luxurious, hand-built car based on the iconic Volkswagen Beetle. It was registered on 10 February 1970 and delivered new (like most examples) in the United States: in Seattle. In 1997, the car was imported to the Netherlands. This example underwent a complete “body-off” restoration around 2016 and is therefore in excellent condition. The owner who had the car restored owned it for no less than 17 years. Extensive documentation of the restoration around 2016 is available, including a photo report and many invoices. In November 2024, a valuation report was also issued in which the car was described as very good with a replacement value of €31,500.

OPTICAL CONDITION
The car is in virtually the same condition as when it rolled off the production line in Osnabrück. It stands out in terms of the colour of the paintwork: this is a unique Aston Martin colour that is unique to this car. Both the paintwork and the chrome work, rubbers and rims are in very good to perfect condition. Naturally, the car is rust-free and the underside is in good condition. The interior features black (artificial) leather upholstery and a wooden Nardi steering wheel. A distinctive feature of the car is the lockable glove compartment. The interior has also been restored to its original condition and is in very good condition. The original radio is still present. Thanks to the rear seat, a total of four people can be seated. The boot (at the front) is also neat and tidy and has room for the spare wheel.

TECHNICAL
Because the car has also been technically overhauled, it starts, shifts, drives and brakes excellently. The engine has been reconditioned and runs smoothly. All tyres have been replaced with 15" Continentals. In short: a beloved classic in rare beautiful condition, ready for the next enthusiast. Due to recent value development, also interesting for investors!

GENERAL
As early as 1948, limited editions of Volkswagen Beetles were modified by coachbuilders. One of them was Karmann, who had the ambition to produce a sporty convertible version in larger numbers. In 1950, the Italian coachbuilder “Ghia” was asked to draw up a design. This design followed in 1953 and Karmann was enthusiastic about the modern design of the model. Heinrich Nordhoff, then managing director of Volkswagen, was primarily focused on affordability and had his doubts about the price of the model. Nevertheless, the further developed model was finally presented at the IAA in Frankfurt in 1955, generating considerable interest. It improved Volkswagen's image, even though the car was also criticised for its limited engine power. The engine power was increased over the years, and in 1969 VW tried to counter this criticism with the following summary:

The VW Karmann Ghia. Is it a real sports car?
- Sports cars have race-like, hand-finished bodywork. So does the Karmann Ghia.
- Sports cars have bucket seats and a four-speed gearbox operated by a gear lever. So does the Karmann Ghia.
- Sports cars have extra stiff suspension for better road holding. So does the Karmann Ghia.
- Sports cars must be maintained by specialists. The Karmann Ghia does not require this.
- Sports cars cost a lot of money. The Karmann Ghia does not.

It is noteworthy that the best production year was not achieved until 1969. This was mainly due to increased demand from the United States, where the model rode on the coattails of the popularity of the VW Beetle and delivery van (T-type). The 1600 cc engine with 44 hp was the most powerful version, reaching a top speed of 138 km/h. The Karmann Ghia was produced until 1974.