Lot 389: 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia Coupe

Recognised almost as readily as the immortal Beetle itself, and with a cult following all of its own, the Karmann-Ghia was, in its maker�s own words: �A Volkswagen for people who can�t stand the sight of a Volkswagen.� Hand built by Karmann at its Osnabruck works, VW�s top-of-the-range coup� married a modified export Beetle floorpan, running gear and engine/transmission package to stylish coachwork by Carrozzeria Ghia. Launched in 1955 in 1,200cc form, the Karmann-Ghia kept abreast of mainstream Beetle developments, gaining all-synchromesh transmission and progressively larger and more-powerful engines. A cabriolet appeared in 1957, and in 1959 the car�s front end underwent a subtle re-style with raised headlamps and enlarged nose intakes. From 1967 the model was built with the 1,500cc engine, gaining the 1,584cc unit in 1970 and undergoing a front/rear-end styling makeover at the same time.
This left-hand drive example was imported into the UK in July 1997 from Driscoll Motors in Austin, Texas and comes with full import paperwork and history. The car has enjoyed three registered keepers in this country and was acquired by the lady vendor in 2005. Extensive works have been undertaken since then, including refurbishment of the engine and transmission, a new floor pan, bodywork renovation/re-spray and new carpets to the interior. Stored since October 2007, the car is offered with sundry restoration invoices, MoT/road fund licence to August 2009 and old/current Swansea V5 registration documents.