1969 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14)
Highlights
- Very good condition throughout
- Looks superb in Oriole Yellow
- Only four documented owners from new
The Appeal
The Volkswagen Karmann Ghia blends the technical prowess of Volkswagen with the artistic craftsmanship of Italian design, courtesy of Carrozzeria Ghia. When it wasintroduced to the world, it became an emblematic figure of accessible yet sophisticated automotive design. This 1969 example embodies the enduring appeal of that collaboration and makes for a stand-out classic. Its elongated hood, sweeping curves, and the intimate cabin evoke the era's design philosophy, where every line and curve was deliberate and this has resulted in a superb looking car with heaps of style.
This Karmann Ghia has passed through only four owners, two in America and two in the UK, a rare feat for a car of this age. The car’s well-documented lineage and impressive condition speak volumes about the respect and affection it has commanded over the years. Having spent most of its life in California with the original owner the body has really benefited from the warm and dry climate and the overall presentation of the car is superb.
With the classic Beetle chassis and drivetrain, combined with a low and light body, the Karmann makes for a superb classic driving experience that is both engaging and easy-going. It’s the kind of car that puts a smile on your face everytime you turn the key, as well as those you pass by. The combination of the Ghia designed body, colour and condition make this classic VW as much a pleasure to look at as it is to drive.
The History and Paperwork
- Imported from California, USA
- Registered as a historic vehicle
- Tax and MOT exempt
- V5 Present and correct
- UK registered in 2014
- Two UK registered keepers
- Four documented owners in total
- Invoices dating back to the original sale showing regular servicing throughout its life
The Condition
- Body and chassis has benefitted from the Californian climate
- Respray in original Oriole Yellow in superb overall condition
- Some small visible paint lumps on nearside wing and roof
- No stereo currently fitted, period-correct Blaupunkt included with the car
- Excellent exterior brightwork
- Trim and badges in very good condition
- Replica BRM wheels in good overall condition
- All light lenses and badges present very well
- Converted to right-hand drive
- Period-correct cigarette lighter included with the car
- Modern Porsche 911 leather seats that complement the interior
- The brown carpeting in very good throughout with some signs of wear
- Headlining presents excellently
- Door cards would benefit from attention
- Dashboard, instruments and controls all present very well
- Modern aftermarket speakers in door cards, Blaupunkt speakers are included for replacement
- The overall presentation of the car is excellent
- A set of European spec Hella lights are included with the car
The Mechanics
- Superb VW 1,493cc air cooled flat-four engine
- Correct card air ducts fitted to the engine
- Engine and engine bay present very well
- The owner informs us that the car has had new fuel lines fitted suitable for E10
- The car comes with a C-Tek MXS 5 battery charger
- Engine bay is clean and well-maintained
- Speedometer has been replaced and the current mileage is unknown
- An original style oil filler is included with the car
- Car starts easily from cold and runs smoothly
- Sounds fantastic with the distinctive note of the flat-four
- The owner tells us the car drives perfectly
- Right-hand drive conversion by previous owner
- Fitted with inertia reel seatbelts for added safety
- The vendor suggests wiring used during the RHD conversion may benefit from improvement
- Air shocks fitted on the front
- Lowered during RHD conversion
- The underside presents well
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1969
- Make Volkswagen
- Model Karmann Ghia
- Colour Yellow
- Odometer 5,950 Miles
- Engine size 1493
Listing Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Falmouth
- Location Cornwall
- Country United Kingdom
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