Highlights

Only 3 owners from new
In current ownership since 2004
Restored in 2008
Attractive colour-coordinated colour scheme

The Appeal

The Karmann Ghia is simply an incredibly pretty car - to such an extent that you'll still see it attract plenty of attention at your local rally or show. It's almost unbelievable to think that the machinery within is nought more than the humble Beetle. These compelling classics owe much - perhaps even all - of that rightful adoration to the remarkable styling by Italy's Carrozzeria Ghia, and that inimitable, pewter-smoothed, hand-built bodywork by German coachbuilding house Karmann.

This example has been with its current keeper for twenty years, and boasts a very attractive, quintessentially period colour scheme. It's a bright, vibrant car that was subject to a loving restoration that was completed in 2009. After a couple of years of driving, it's since been kept largely in storage. As a result, a little patina has since set in, but don't let that distract you - it's still an eminently drivable, solidly-presented car.

If you're after a classic bit of European elegance, this is a great opportunity - and with that striking, effortlessly period-matching livery, you're in for a real crowd pleaser.

The History and Paperwork

Built in 1967
The DVLA records only 2 previous keepers
In current ownership since 2004
Fully restored in 2008
This was completed in 2009
Largely spent life in storage since 2011
MOT exempt, and last tested in 2021
Currently indicates 56,941 miles on a five-figure odometer
Complete with:
- V5c documents both old and current
- A collection of MOT certificates
- Vehicle maintenance record book dating back to 1999
- A vast selection of invoices
- Photographic record of the restoration
- Original instruction manual
- A photocopied instruction manual and service card
- Buyer's guide
- A small selection of tax discs

The Condition

Attractive blue livery
Still shining bright with no dents or dings
However, the vendor does highlight the following:
- There is some corrosion under the bonnet which has begun to appear on the bonnet's surface
- Some light corrosion under the rim of the boot
- There are some patches of paint bubbling along the bonnet's corner edges
- Paint bubbling and a water stain around the air vent as well as a paint bubble on the driver's side
Chromework still contrasts well, with a little patina
Wheels in good order with some light wear
Underside is solid with only small amounts of surface corrosion
Entirely customised cabin with a colour-matched blue and white colour scheme
Upholstery is nicely presented with no rips or tears
Dashboard is carrying some signs of patina around the instruments
All instruments are clear and legible
The speedometer is reportedly not working, nor is the fuel gauge
However, we understand everything else to be working well
A CD player/stereo has been built into the glovebox - this has an intermittent fault with the wiring
The vendor reports this is likely an easy fix

The Mechanics

Powered by the familiar and ever-capable VW 1500cc flat-four engine
Manual transmission
Engine bay looks in good overall order
The vendor notes that when started regularly, the car starts easily and runs well
Some advisories showed on the 2021 MOT
However, we've not been informed of any specific mechanical issues

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]