VW Karmann Ghia Type 1 Buyers Guide

Thanks to the drive of Wilhelm Karmann Gmbh to produce a sports bodied car upon a tried and tested chassis we can today enjoy the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia. In 1954 VW approved the plans and designs and this was quickly followed by an announcement to supply the chassis's. The European Motor Shows in 1955 saw the debut of the first models.
When buying a Karmann Ghia, the model for you depends on your circumstances. If your plans are to have a car that will be used daily or a minimum of 3 or 4 times per week, then you would probably be better with a later model as they have more powerful engines and a more modern feel to the interior. If money is no object and you are really looking for an occasional or second car then look no further than a 1950's model, the early classic is understandably the most prized and this is reflected in the prices they command. Whatever your needs and whatever model you decide to go for remember to check for corrosion, as even the later models are now over 30 years old and time will take its toll.
The best prices are undoubtedly found in private sales and online. When viewing a car if possible take someone with you who knows what to look for. Bodywork is the key factor, if you can get the very best your budget can stretch to, a single front work alone can be very costly to replace. The mechanical side of a Karmann Ghia is all VW Beetle and therefore simple to work on and learn, if possible pick up a copy of "How to Keep Your VW Alive" book by John Muir. There are plenty of VW air-cooled specialists around and most can now be found online or ask around at shows etc for recommendations.
The final consideration is your choice of coupe or cabriolet, as previously with the model year a coupe maybe the better choice as a daily driver mainly from a security viewpoint but also the coupe has slightly more room in the rear than a cabriolet with the cover up. Obviously if you're lucky enough to live in warmer climates, then the cabriolet maybe the first consideration for you. Either way as mentioned earlier when buying a karmann Ghia Type 1 try and buy the best you can afford.

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