1970 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible

1970 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible Description

In 1950, Karmann approached Volkswagen with a design for a new vehicle. Karmann had already had a working relationship with VW having supplied designs and body manufacturing for the Beetles and Cabriolets. The idea for the new vehicle was initially rejected by VW, so Karmann approached the Italian coachbuilder Ghia with the idea of building the new design as a limited production specialty car. Ghia and Karmann finished the first prototype of their new vehicle in 1953. Nordoff, the head of VW at the time, saw the concept car and almost immediately decided that VW wanted to produce the sporty new car. VW unveiled the new Karmann Ghia on November 14, 1955 in Europe.

This 1970 Karmann Ghia, Model 1411 Convertible, was purchased new from Midwestern VW Sales in Columbus, Ohio for the amount of 2,694.45. Based on existing paperwork, this car enjoyed an active life and lived in various states including Hawaii, California, New Hampshire and eventually arriving in St. Louis.

This sporty convertible has been restored as needed throughout the years. The body appears very straight and solid with good fitment of the doors, the front trunk lid and the rear hood. The gaps and margins are consistent throughout. All of the bodylines are crisp and clear and there are no obvious signs of metal repair or damage on any of the body panels, floors or fenders.

The car has been repainted in an attractive, dark metallic red color. The paint is extremely bright and shows well. There is a small blemish on the right front fender and a very small hole near the rear view mirror that was likely drilled for an aftermarket accessory that is no longer present. Other than these two small flaws, the car has a great exterior appearance.

The chrome and stainless trim pieces are very clean and present well. The bumpers, bumper guards, front grill vents, headlight bezels and windshield frame are in very good condition. The car retains all of its original Volkswagen and Karmann Ghia badging.

A complimenting black vinyl interior shows extremely well against the dark red exterior. The front bucket seats have the typical VW embossed pattern while the rear seat is covered in an appropriate light grain black vinyl. All of the interior components including the seats, carpets and door panels are in very good condition.

The wood grained dashboard contains all of the original gauges, which appear to be in working order. . The mileage shown is just under 33,000, however, we don’t believe this to be original. The steering wheel and pedals exhibit no unusual signs of excessive wear. There is a factory installed steering wheel lock as well as a heater, a rear window defroster and an electric clock. This car still retains its original Sapphire XVIII radio as well as a contemporary radio.

The tan, canvas top is in good condition with a few slight flaws. All of the glass operates as it should and the windshield is clean and clear. There is a matching top boot, which snaps snug to the body when the top is folded. For long distance travels, there is an appropriate and period correct rear mounted luggage rack with leather straps.

Under the front storage area, there is a correct spare tire, jack and an original tool kit. The storage area floor pans are in good condition and show no signs of damage or repair.

The rear mounted, famous VW “Flat Four” engine is clean and tidy. We believe this to be the original engine and it has been nicely accessorized with some chrome trim components. The engine starts easily and idles well. The engine does not smoke and powers the car down the road with ample speed and acceleration. The four-speed, manual transmission and clutch operate smoothly. The tires are newer replacements that are mounted on stock wheels with original hubcaps. With its responsive steering and front disc brakes, this car is lots of fun to drive.

This car is being sold with the original window sticker, an owner’s manual, service brochures and some maintenance records. A car cover is also included in the sale.

In recent years, Karmann Ghia convertibles have become extremely popular. Good, rust free examples have become very hard to find. This 1970 Karmann Ghia is an extremely attractive example. It not only looks sporty but also drives and handles like a sports car should. It will no doubt become a wise, future investment that will provide lots of fun and excitement for its new owner.

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• Price: $24,900
• VIN: 1402861603
• Cylinders: Four
• Title: Clear/MO
• Exterior Color: Red

• Carfax:
• Engine: 1600cc
• Transmission: 4-speed
• Mileage: 32,645
• Interior Color: Black

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