Lot 101: 1970 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia

In an effort to expand their model range, Volkswagen contracted the established German coach builder, Karmann to design them a new more image conscious car. Karmann, in turn, used an old Ghia design concept first instigated by Chrysler in the middle 1950's and hence the Karmann Ghia was born based on the Beetle floorpan and using the same engine and suspension. The VW executives were impressed by the concept car and by August of 1955, the first Volkswagen Karmann Ghia's rolled off the assembly line in Osnabruck, Germany as 1956 models. Production lasted until 1974 and in that time some 365,912 coupés and 79,326 convertibles were produced, a significant amount but still small by comparison with the Beetle which makes them a scarce sight on the roads today.Manufactured in 1970, this fine example is resplendent in cherry red with an orange interior. This left hand drive car has covered a total of just 47,800 miles from new. Featuring a manual gearbox, this car is reported to be in good condition all round and has benefited from a complete new engine in 1995. Additional improvements include new headlamps, alarm and a new battery.