Chassis No. 2011390

In the early 1950s, Volkswagen was successfully building its Beetle, but realized the healthy economy was ripe for those new car buyers seeking exciting, innovative new cars. The timing was exquisite. Wilhelm Karmann and Luigi Segre of Carrozzeria Ghia joined forces to create a slimmed-down version of Virgil Exner's awe-inspiring Chrysler d'Elegance. The Chrysler's egg-crate grill was replaced with a gentle, flowing front-end design that drew the eye to the rear bumper in a continuous low, sleek, and balanced line. How many sports cars can be described as elegant?

Volkswagen decision-makers enthusiastically received the stylish prototype with design approval granted for production in November 1953. The debut of the Type 14 came at the 1955 Paris and Frankfurt auto shows. The running gear was identical to the venerable, bulletproof Type 1 Beetle, but the Karmann Ghia's body panels were hand-finished and smoothed with English pewter in a time-consuming process used by high-end car makers. As a testament to the Karmann Ghia's design and construction, production ran for 19 years virtually unchanged.

The example offered here is a rare, early "Low Light" model featuring slightly lower headlight position, fresh air inlets in the nose, and smaller art deco tail lamps. Recently finished in "Bamboo" (L241) a period-correct, striking pale yellow it is complimented with "Deep Green" (L318) roof and features body color wheels wearing new era-appropriate whitewall tires. The interior has been nicely re-trimmed with beige vinyl, white welting and green corduroy insert seats, color-coordinated door panels and carpeting. The distinctive metal dash is set with VDO instruments including its 90-mph speedometer, fuel gauge, passenger grab handle and an analog clock. Its time-proven engine has been professionally rebuilt and is still fed by a proper Solex carburetor. A distinctive "pea-shooter" exhaust system brings up the rear. A matching spare wheel and tire and road tools are included with the car as well.

The understated charm of the Karmann Ghia was especially endearing when compared to the massive early postwar American cars sporting fins, dazzling chrome and V8 power. Popularity increased dramatically for these sleek and affordable cars, as demand exceeded supply, dealers had to put eager buyers on waiting lists. In recent years, interest has steadily grown in early Volkswagens, especially Karmann Ghias. Many of these earliest examples have been modified or simply rusted away with neglect. Not so for this charming, restored coupe with its classic beauty and usability that deserves and receives more than a second glance.