AA18 • Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14) '72

The Karmann Ghia, a former whose line has not aged a bit and where the charm is still operating. Based on the Beetle, it is actually the sporting version of the "people's car". But what is this car designed by Ghia, assembled by Karmann and sold by Volkswagen? It keeps its promise of sporty coupe?

Technical sheet

Model	Volkswagen Karmann Ghia
Engine	1.6 April 50 horsepower flat cylinders
Dimensions	4.14 x 1.63 x 1.32 meter
Mass	870 kg
Marketing	1971 - 1974
average coast	15 000 €
0 to 100 km / h	NC
max	138 km/h
Consumption	NC l/100 km
Date and place	November 8, 2015, Mayenne

Type 14 . The first felt when we find ourselves facing a Volkswagen Karmann Ghia is often admiration. Which line ! To better understand the role played by this model, back a few decades back. In the early 50s, the Beetle is at its best and the Volkswagen brand, while recent, experiencing remarkable growth, it perpetuates creating the Combi, always based on Volkswagen. But soon, the Italian car designers interested in this promising model. Thus the body builder Ghia joins Volkswagen to offer a new body to the Beetle, more dynamic, more refined and sporty too. As for the assembly of all, it is Karmann, an independent German automobile manufacturer that will do. Officially, this sports coupe is not called but Volkswagen Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Type 14. However, posterity will retain such designation assembling the names of these three groups.

Modeste . At the exit of the Ghia in 1953, public reception is however quite mixed. Some critics accuse it a great resemblance to the Chrysler Coupe d'Elegance which it borrows certain characteristic traits but above its low power (including all of the mechanics is taken as such) of the Beetle that disappoint. Therefore, Volkswagen, which relied heavily on its Type 14 finds itself in a delicate situation. We must act fast. The solution came in 1958, with a declination cabriolet. Various developments come at a time, both from an aesthetic point of view and the engine, with a displacement steadily increased from 30-44 horsepower. Then we come in 1971, when the range Ghia evolves in depth.

The ultimate evolution . It is moreover this latest evolution of the Type 14 as we speak here, with bright red copy. In 1971, bumper Ghia evolve chrome entire length, no frills and a central black band. Turn signals and taillights are noticeably larger while the dashboard is modernized with two large central counters. For the rest, the body remains true to itself: simple, uncluttered and extremely gracious. For many it symbolizes romance and the perfect compromise between the rigor of a German mechanical postwar and sophistication of an Italian car, with a beautiful line. It did no less to prolong the career of the Karmann Ghia until 1974!

Heart stroke . Everything in this line is there to remind the grace of the '50s. The general line has aged well, with its curves, its chromium but its 4-cylinder flat old but strong of a beautiful sound! From a mechanical standpoint, the 1971 Ghia gains 6 horses and now appears to 50. It has the opportunity of a manual gearbox or four-speed automatic three reports. Its low weight (870 kg) allows it to offer good performance but not Hair-raising. The cabin is quite spartan, no frills but offers a decent enough comfort with well-designed seats and a sumptuous wheel. As for equipment, although stingy, it is quality. Buying a Karmann Ghia often begins with a shot of heart!

Old world charm . Ghia has disc brakes front and rear drum. The white sidewall tires welcome 15-inch steel wheels and usually covered with a chrome trim. The copy we have here does not have these covers, frequently stolen ... Some unscrupulous nails slid behind the wheel cover, suggesting a mechanical problem due ringing!The driveability of the Ghia is generally good, especially since the transmission has been revised. The four independent wheels improve road holding. Top speed is now close to 140 km / h since the last rise, which nevertheless remains fairly weak against emerging competition '70s.

Ritale . Under the rear three-quarters, one finds some similarities in the line with the Porsche 356, but also with some Italian models, old Alfa Romeo. But with this, the Karmann Ghia adds a significant advantage: very little maintenance expensive since it derives directly from the ladybird, with among others, the famous Solex carburetor. The large rear lights are characteristic of the last four vintages of the model, like the rather thick lettering Volkswagen at left back. Also note the dual exhaust, it was rare to see a model whose marketing started in 1955!

Family history . Unfortunately, as many older models, the Ghia are prone to rust. This is also often the body that makes the soul before the engine itself. However, the market is quite comprehensive and provides a wide range of models, including a proportion ratio roughly equivalent between coupes and convertibles. Of customized models are also available for lovers of this type of models. A second model Ghia has existed since 1961, she was nicknamed "the great Karmann" while its official name is Type 34. Ancestor of the Porsche 914, its high price it had not had the expected success, leaving the prestige his little sister, the Type 14 which we have a very nice copy here.

Versatile . The used market is the difference between the different models. Older cut Karmann Ghia in good condition are highly sought by collectors. This is especially the case for 1958 convertibles while the latest vintages, from 1971 to 1974 including our red Ghia, are just as important. Indeed, they gain in versatility, can be used every day and still have this line so incredible. Therefore, it is difficult to make a choice. The most reasonable is to see according to his needs and the need for flexibility or not. Still, that whatever the vintage, the Karmann Ghia is not a sport! Its charms are quite different, this is the kind of model that takes pleasure to drive along a seaside during a long summer evening ...

Simple and effective . It is very difficult to resist the typical line of the '50s. The Rolls Royce of the Beetle does not miss assets and is appreciated for its simplicity and comfort. Mechanically, the balance sheet is not as good and it is outdated in many respects. But like many ancient "sport" is a lifestyle that you buy!

Should I buy a Volkswagen Karmann Ghia?

Expect around € 15,000 for a Karmann Ghia in very good condition. For a rare model, with a rare combination of colors or in a state competition, can easily double the amount! Quite popular these days, the Ghia have the advantage of being only inexpensive maintenance and not consuming fuel démusurément. It is a purchase rather reasonable ... Who does not décotera!