early 1963 Sea‑Blue Look, fully restored, multiple award winner!
early 1963 Sea‑Blue Look, fully restored, multiple award winner!
History & Origin
According to the vehicle registration, the Karmann Ghia was driven in the Braunschweig area in the 1980s and was last officially registered on 12.12.1985. After that, it completely disappeared from the roads and fell into a decades-long deep sleep. In its original delivery state, the car was painted in L456 Ruby Red and featured the 75 Silver Beige interior – an elegant, typical colour combination of the early 60s.
Rediscovery in 2010
In 2010, the car was discovered by Stoyan Gesher. At the same time, he came across the original 1963 Karmann Ghia brochure – the very brochure whose Sea Blue depiction later became the stylistic guideline. From that moment, it was clear how the "sleeping princess" should be brought back to life. Restoration 2010–2011 This was followed by a year-long, complete disassembly and restoration. The vehicle was taken apart down to the last screw was dismantled, rebuilt both technically and visually, and restored to its current condition. An extensive photo documentation from 2010/2011 exists, documenting every step of the work. In 2011, the car came into my possession.
Colour concept & current execution
The goal was to bring the 1963 Sea Blue look into the modern era. For the repaint, we deliberately chose 'Blu Teseo Metallic' (597A) – a modern, deep metallic interpretation of the original VW colour L360 Sea Blue, as shown in the 1963 brochure. The interior was also designed based on this model: a light grey tone inspired by the historic 'Silbergrau / Silver White', which was the typical interior combination with Sea Blue in 1963. The modern execution stays true to the character of the original while offering a higher quality feel.
Awards & Public Presence
The car received numerous awards after restoration and won many trophies as a beauty queen at classic car meetings. Among other things, it was awarded by the Beetle enthusiasts Pendelachse at the Classic Remise Düsseldorf. Since 2011, Hoffmann Speedster has used this vehicle on its website as an iconic example of products from the Karmann range – a testament to how well the restoration is perceived. Anecdote from Karmann History A charming side note: During his military service in Germany, Elvis Presley once drove a Karmann Ghia in Munich – it belonged to the actress Vera Tschechova. This little episode highlights the cult status the Karmann Ghia already had in the 1960s. As Elvis' car, it was invited and displayed several times at the largest Elvis gathering in Europe, the European Elvis Festival.
Overall impression
The car combines the classic lines of the Karmann Ghia with a stylish, contemporary take on the 1963 brochure appearance. The restoration is well documented, the colour choice carefully selected and consistently executed. A vehicle for enthusiasts who value style, history and quality. The Karmann has covered only a healthy 17,310 km in 15 years since the restoration, so it hasn't been driven much, just about 1,000 km a year for classic car meets.
Price positioning
In the price guide of Oldtimer Markt 2025/2026, the Karmann Ghia Coupe from 1960-65 is listed in condition 2 at 29,600 euros. Interestingly, my car in sea blue is also pictured there. Based on that, I have set 28,500 euros as a realistic price.
Technical data
· Engine size: 1200 cc Power: 34 hp
· Top speed: 120 km/h
· Purchase date: 10.12.2011 (mileage 11,652 km)
· Mileage 06.05.2026 - 28,962
· Vehicle condition 2
· MOT: June 2028
· Tyres: whitewall, new, 20 km driven
I am selling the Karmann because I have used it very little in recent years since another classic car has taken its place. I only want this special car to go to someone who will appreciate it as much as I do.
Private sale, no guarantee or returns/exchanges possible.
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