Highlights
- Subtly modified Karmann in silver with navy blue hood
- Original UK RHD model
- 2,143cc engine by Dan Simpson plus uprated suspension
- Engine recently overhauled in August 2024 with few miles since
- High-quality restoration with powder-coated underside
- Professionally refurbished perforated leather interior including dashboard
- Extensive documentation including receipts and MOT certificates
- Really smart and tasteful Karmann with Porsche Fuchs
The Appeal
Ever since the People’s Car began getting The People mobile, the very same people have been finding ways to make what Volkswagen started even better. That has often involved taking the Beetle in new and fascinating directions.
This 1977 Karmann is a perfect example of all that. Following an extensive, high quality restoration it clever blends standard looks with some neat enhancements, most notably those 17in Porsche Fuchs. Less obvious is the 2,143cc twin carb air cooled flat four at the back, which was developed and built by Volkswagen supremo Dan Simpson. The car also runs uprated suspension and improved brakes.
Inside there is a retrimmed black leather cabin with neat silver contrast stitching that extends to the dashboard and doors. The whole is topped off, literally, by a high quality Mohair blue roof.
The vendor acquired the car early last year and has only covered 1,500 miles. That hasn’t prevented him investing in the car, including an engine overhaul in August last year. The car is in very good condition and is said to run and drive equally well. It is a credit to the owners and specialists involved and looks a treat for the buyer.
The vendor says:
“This is a unique vehicle. With its combination of expert mechanical upgrades, high-quality restoration, and careful preservation of original features, this Karmann Cabriolet is a rare find.
“The car was previously owned by Dan Simpson who carried out a significant restoration involving the installation of a 2143cc type 4 engine, electronic ignition, uprated suspension, stainless steel exhaust and disk brakes all round.”
History and Paperwork
- First registered in UK 1st May 1977
- Current keeper since February 2024
- Vendor has covered less than 1,500 miles covered since acquisition
- Stored mostly in a heated garage we are told
- Extensive documentation including receipts and MOT certificates
- V5C in current keeper’s name
- Registered as a Historic Vehicle
- 2 set of keys
- Old tax disc
- Dyno test print out
- Various invoices as shown
- VIN number 1572060141
The Condition
- Extensive high quality restoration reported with car refinished in metallic silver
- Paintwork presents very well with only some minor marks to note in photos
- Body colour metal bumpers with correct rubber trims
- Bodywork also appears in good order with details shown in photos
- Small paint bubble on passenger door and a minor paint chips on front bumper
- Good quality navy mohair folding hood
- Underside has been restored and professionally powder coated
- 17" Porsche 5-spoke ‘Fuchs’ alloy wheels with Uniroyal/Yokohama tyres
- Professionally refurbished perforated leather seats, dash and door cards
- Leather in black with silver stitching presents well across all surfaces
- Fitted with a Moto-Lita steering wheel
- Vintage Speed Black Mamba shifter
- Grey carpets in good order as shown
- Operational rear heated rear screen
- Full size spare wheel and tool kit
The Mechanics
- 2,143cc Type 4 air cooled 4cyl engine
- Engine built by specialist Dan Simpson
- Twin Weber carburettors
- 4spd manual gearbox
- Engine overhauled in August 2024
- Engine tuned using a rolling road as shown in photos
- Well maintained since overhaul according to seller
- Good history file of ongoing maintenance shown in photos
- Starts and runs well for its age we are told
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