Highlights

Rare right-hand drive, UK market example
Largely complete including interior, trim and mechanicals including a 1,200cc engine for restoration
An excellent opportunity to restore a rare and desirable coachbuilt coupé
Matching number car

The Appeal

If you’re on the lookout for the next project, this Karmann Ghia is an eminently worthy candidate. Most found their way to the United States, but this is a very rare UK market car in right-hand drive. It’s had just five registered keepers and has a current V5C in the vendor’s name.

Volkswagen Beetle mechanicals and hand-made coachwork might sound like unlikely bedfellows, but it turned out to be nothing short of ingenious. The Karmann Ghia looked a million dollars but cost very little to run and service. Its Italianate lines are surely some of the prettiest ever bestowed upon an automobile; particularly in coupé form.

As you’ll note in the photographs, this Karmann is in need of significant restoration, but it’s highly complete and eminently worth saving. The vendor remarks:

“This vehicle is a rare opportunity for any classic car restorer. The Karmann Ghia in right-hand drive is increasingly rare, particularly with all parts included. This is also a good investment as KGs fetch around 20k when fully restored. This vehicle will be beautiful when finished.”

The History and Paperwork

UK market RHD example
Retains original registration: ‘WME 328G’
V5C in the vendor’s name
True mileage unknown, although a speedometer/odometer unit is included with the car

The Condition

Full restoration required
Likely requires new floor pans
The vendor confirms that new sills will be required and attention to the lower edges of the wheel arches
The car comes with front and rear screens to suit the roof chop but the side windows will need modifying if the roof remains as-is
The vendor also includes a professional roof cut if the new owner wants to return to original spec the original front and rear glass is also included
All wheels present; front wheels currently removed
The interior has been removed but is included in the sale
Cab seats need total refurbishment rear seat is serviceable
Original door cards are present but very tired and in need of restoration
All clocks, gauges and chrome interior trim strips are present and are reportedly in superb condition
The window winders and door handles are said to be in excellent order, as is the ash tray and all chrome dial trims
Electric window kit included and the 2 frames shown with the spare roof are custom made to hold the chassis straight if/when removing the roof

The Mechanics

1.2-litre air-cooled flat-four
Four-speed manual gearbox
Rear axle in place
Non-running and in need of mechanical restoration
All tinware, cooling fan, shroud, and dynamo are included

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:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..