There are shapes that simply look successful even after decades and are not subject to short-term fashion, these are, in other words, 'design classics'. The Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia can certainly be counted among them and perhaps a little further 'off the radar' than its more pedigree Italian cousins. Of the three fathers of this global success, Wilhelm Karmann produced them for Volkswagen, with Volkswagen boss, Heinz Nordhoff, approving the delivery of the re-worked and widened Type 1 chassis for Volkswagen, with the Italian Carozzeria Ghia responsible for the design of the Type 14.

Finished in Osnabrueck, Germany on 29th August 1970, this wonderful and desirable convertible Karmann Ghia left destined for San Antonio, USA on 2nd September 1970 before being registered there for the first time on 1st January 1971. Ordered with sealed headlamps, white wall tyres and additional outside mirror. Originally supplied in Willow Green, the car is now presented in resplendent Dolphin Blue with blue interior. Imported from the USA in 2016, the car was first owned in the UK by the late Lord R.A McKenzie who spent £10,000 on the bodywork and a complete interior restoration throughout 2017. The vendor paid £31,000 for the car in 2022, purchasing the car form the well reputed Karmann Ghia Centre and they had the car converted from left hand drive to right hand drive before taking delivery. A DAB radio was fitted at the same time along with having an engine service as well as a few other bits. The vendor reports the car to run and drive very well and other than a couple of small dents in the front and rear bumpers, the car is like a fresh restoration. Having hardly covered any miles under the vendor's ownership, the car is only offered for sale due to a move to a house without garaging.

Supplied with a V5C registration document, receipts, invoices and desirable Volkswagen 'Zertifikat' certificate of authenticity. These Karmann Ghia's are beautiful cars and the cabriolets are a rare beast, with this example being one of the best we have seen. Consigned by Will Penrose

Lot details
Year: 1971
Make: Volkswagen
Model: Karmann Ghia Cabriolet
Registration: MCY 352J
Chassis No: 1412013462
Engine No: AE026509
Odometer: 28,259

* Restored example
* Excellent condition
* Volkswagen 'Zertifikat' certificate