1972 Karmann Ghia ""Top Hat"" Coupé

Launched in 1956, the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Coupé (Type 14) was VW's attempt to raise its image at a time when the western world was emerging from a period of bleak post-war austerity into an era dominated by American show-biz glamour. Using the frumpy, utilitarian Beetle as their starting point, VW's executives contracted German coach builder Karmann to turn their ugly duckling into a swan. In an inspired move, Karmann turned to Italian styling house Ghia to inject some Latin brio into the project and an instant classic was born. Basically a Beetle in a Hollywood party frock, the Karmann Ghia became a runaway success, and its cool California styling made it a best-seller right up until 1974 when it was finally replaced by the Scirocco.

This delightful example is an original, UK supplied car and has only just been subject to a very extensive restoration (see the website). It's been superbly repainted in its original Light Ivory with a Black Top which is a very rare factory finish and was known as a “Top Hat”. It has an extensive history file with every MOT, invoices, and the original service book stamped to 82K. It's a manual, right-hand drive car with a fresh MOT and would reward a close inspection.

NB. The accompanying photographs were taken prior to the restoration.