1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Coupe

Highlights

UK car from first registration
Original right hand drive model
Current owner since 2002
Low mileage, rebuilt 1,584cc engine
Recent service
MOT, Tax and ULEZ exempt

The Appeal

Launched in 1955, the stylish Karmann Ghia was styled by Carrozzeria Ghia and based on VW Beetle mechanicals and a 4” wider floorpan. The beautiful design was designated the ‘Type 14’ and was largely hand-built alongside the Beetle Cabriolet at the Karmann factory.

Particularly aimed at the U.S. market, the striking Karmann Ghia became Volkswagen’s premier model with 364,401 coupes being built until the end of production in 1974.

A cool head-turner, this late model is relatively rare in right hand drive form, and whilst in need of some value-adding cosmetic attention, it has nonetheless been cherished by it’s current owner of 22 years.

Following a recent comprehensive service by a respected VW specialist, this Karmann Ghia is mechanically fit, runs well, and is ready to drive.

The History and Paperwork

Built in 1971
Registered in the UK on the 1st January 1972
Current V5 present
In current ownership since 2002
Repainted in 2001 after extensive bodywork restoration
Garaged for the last 22 years
History includes regular MOT’s and some servicing invoices
Invoice for welding by Eagle Autos in 2004
Invoice for engine rebuild by Jack’s Garage in 2012
Latest inspection and service invoice in September 2023
Last MOT expired in 2016 (exempt)
Taxed until the 1st September 2025 (exempt)

The Condition

The paintwork is presentable with some imperfections
A generally straight body
Originally blue until repainted red (96) in 1986 and resprayed again in 2001
Cracked paintwork to the o/s/r wing following a bump
Presentable chrome and bumpers
A few items of trim are missing
Passenger door mirror is missing
The lights are acceptable displaying a few cracks to the plastic
Door bottoms and wheel arches are reasonable with signs of previous repairs
The sills and floorpan appear solid and well undersealed
Original steel wheels are roughly painted but the chrome hubcaps shine
The interior is a little tired looking throughout
The instruments and switchgear are all said to operate as they should
Apart from a small tear on the driver’s seat, the upholstery is presentable
Headlining is a bit saggy
Door cards and carpeting are fine
The front boot space contains a usable spare

The Mechanics

Benefits from a rebuilt 1,584cc air-cooled flat-four engine (2012)
Standard 4 speed transmission
Tidy engine compartment
Clean engine components
New speedometer/odometer fitted in 2004
Last service, inspection and safety check in September 2023 (9 miles ago)
The steering, suspension and brakes are believed to be in good working condition
New battery installed in September 2024
The engine starts and ticks over nicely

BEFORE YOU BUY

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