The Vw Karmann Ghia stands as a testament to the beauty achieved when Italian design flair merges seamlessly with German engineering. Born from a collaboration between Volkswagen, Karmann coachbuilders, and Italian design house Ghia, this vehicle captivated the world with its stunning aesthetics and reliable mechanics. Introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1955, the Karmann Ghia Type 14 quickly became an icon of style and accessible sports car appeal. Its sleek lines, penned by Luigi Segre of Carozzeria Ghia, were draped over a widened Volkswagen Beetle chassis, creating a harmonious blend of form and function. The initial coupe version was soon followed by a breathtaking cabriolet in 1957, further enhancing its allure.
Initially equipped with a modest 30 horsepower engine, the Karmann Ghia Type 14 evolved over the years to meet changing demands. A subtle facelift in 1959 refined its appearance, while the introduction of the Saxomat semi-automatic transmission in 1961 added a touch of modern convenience. By 1971, the model boasted a more robust 50 horsepower engine and incorporated design updates such as wider chrome bumpers and larger rear lights, borrowing instrument designs from the Volkswagen 411 E. Despite its enduring popularity and status as a highly sought-after classic, production of the “small” Karmann Ghia concluded in 1973 for the cabriolet and 1974 for the coupe, marking the end of an era for this beloved vehicle.
Beyond the widely recognized Type 14, there exists another, rarer gem in the Karmann Ghia lineage: the Type 34 1500 Karmann Ghia. This “large” Karmann Ghia, unveiled at the 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show, occupies a unique space in Volkswagen history, often compared in rarity and value to prestigious marques like Bugatti and Porsche. Its design, also originating from Ghia of Turin, presented a distinctive “four-eyed” front end and a rear styling that hinted at contemporary American automotive trends. Underneath its stylish exterior, the Type 34 utilized the mechanical foundation of the Volkswagen Type 3 family.
Production of the Type 34 Karmann Ghia was relatively short-lived, ceasing in 1969 after eight years. An exceptionally rare cabriolet version, with only 16 units produced, is particularly prized by collectors today. Perhaps the most elusive variant is the Karmann Ghia Type 34 fastback coupe prototype; a single near-production example of which is now a treasured part of the Volkswagen Classic collection, representing the pinnacle of Karmann Ghia rarity and design innovation.
