Description
Volkswagen Karmann Ghia | 1971
Highlights:
- Classic coupe with manual transmission and 1.6L air-cooled engine
- French registration (carte grise)
- Original interior and attractive paint finish from earlier
- Mechanically in good condition
The seller offers for sale a 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, a design icon of the air-cooled era. Powered by a 1.6-litre flat-four petrol engine and mated to a manual transmission, this coupe delivers the unmistakable charm of Volkswagen’s rear-engined layout with the elegance of Karmann styling and Ghia’s Italian design touch.
According to the seller, the vehicle received a full exterior repaint around ten years ago. Since then, it has been kept off the road, stored dry on a concrete floor inside a hangar. It has not seen regular use in recent years but has remained sheltered from the elements.
The condition of the bodywork is reported as very good, with clean panels and a well-preserved appearance. While some minor paint correction or cosmetic refinements could be needed for a show-level finish, the car retains a presentable and clean exterior. The original interior is intact, showing typical signs of age but no major flaws. Upholstery and dashboard elements are believed to be original to the vehicle.
Mechanically, the Karmann Ghia is in god condition. However, it currently does not have a valid technical inspection (Contrôle Technique), as the seller acknowledges the car may receive annotations or notes due to its age. Nevertheless, the car is described as drivable and is sold in running condition.
The seller notes that the car, like most Karmann Ghias, has some areas with rust, but nothing considered alarming.
Introduced in 1955, the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia combined the tried-and-true Beetle platform with striking bodywork from Italian firm Ghia, built by German coachbuilder Karmann. It was marketed as a more stylish, refined option for those who wanted a Volkswagen with flair. The design, with its curvaceous lines and low stance, became an instant classic, helping VW broaden its appeal beyond economy buyers.
Despite sharing its underpinnings with the humble Beetle, the Karmann Ghia offered a premium feel thanks to its hand-finished body panels and elegant proportions. It wasn’t a sports car in performance terms, but it delivered a smooth, engaging driving experience. The 1.6L engine, standard in later years like this 1971 example, gave improved power and drivability compared to earlier models.
Over the years, the Karmann Ghia has gained a cult following among enthusiasts for its unique combination of reliability, affordability, and style. Restoration projects and well-kept examples continue to attract interest across Europe and North America. Its enduring popularity is tied to its charming looks and mechanical simplicity, making it one of the most beloved air-cooled Volkswagens outside of the Beetle and Bus.
This example, preserved and stored long-term, provides a solid foundation for continued use, improvement, or light restoration. Whether as a weekend cruiser or part of a larger collection, it offers the iconic lines and nostalgic character that define the Karmann Ghia.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Meurthe-et-Moselle department, France.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a French registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
