1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible

Description

The 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (Type 14) is a true vintage classic that perfectly combines the simplicity of the Volkswagen Beetle's mechanics with the sleek, stylish Italian-designed bodywork. Known for its unique design, the Karmann-Ghia was produced by Volkswagen from 1955 to 1974, featuring Italian-inspired aesthetics and German constuction. By 1974, the car had evolved significantly, benefiting from continuous upgrades such as larger, more powerful engines, 12-volt electrical systems, and front disc brakes. Available as both a coupe and a convertible, it appealed to drivers seeking a fun, versatile driving experience. The extensive network of Volkswagen dealers and workshops, coupled with today's numerous aftermarket suppliers, has ensured the Karmann-Ghia's enduring popularity. This classic sporting VW, especially well-restored Convertible examples like this, remains a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts for its blend of reliable performance, stylish design, and ease of maintenance.

Highlights 

• The final model year of Volkswagen’s earliest, most sporting model 

• Open-air Convertible body 

• The subject of a documented five-year restoration with approximately 25,000 miles added since the rebuild based on restorer's statement and the consignor's estimates   

• Features its matching numbers 1.6-liter air-cooled flat-four “AH” engine (producing 46 SAE NET horsepower) as per its Volkswagen certificate

• Four-speed manual transmission 

• Finished in Zambezi Green with a Light/Pale Sand soft top 

• Restored interior with cloth seat inserts and door panels by Sew Fine of Denver, Colorado 

• Features its matching numbers engine as per its Volkswagen certificate 

• Optioned from new with: 

  • D53 – M-Package  

  • M002 – Sealed beam headlamps 

  • M128 – Whitewall tires 

  • M261 – Additional rear view mirror, outside right, plain 

• Electric fuel pump 

• Dual dashboard cup holders 

• Aftermarket windshield washer (original parts retained) 

• Silver-painted four-lug steel wheels with VW hubcaps 

• Rear parcel shelf speakers 

Features 

• Chassis and suspension :

  • Frame: Semi-unitized. Platform, center tube.   

  • Independent Suspension: Four-wheel   

    • Front: torsion bars w/stabilizer   

    • Rear: torsion bars w/trailing and diagonal arms.   

  • Brakes: Dual tandem, discs front, drums rear   

  • Parking Brake: Cable operated, rear   

  • Rim Size: 4.5J x 15  inches 

  • Steering: Roller type   

• Dimensions:

  • Wheelbase: 94.5 inches   

  • Track, front: 51.7 inches   

  • Track, rear: 53.1 inches   

  • Length: 165.7 inches   

  • Width: 64.3 inches   

  • Height-unloaded: 61.4 inches   

  • Ground Clearance — loaded: 6.3 inches   

  • Turning Circle - approx.: 36.9 feet 

• Weights:

  • Curb weight: 2,094 pounds

  • Gross Vehicle Weight: 2,645 pounds  

  • Payload: 728 pounds 

• Performance:

  • Top speed: 90 miles per hour 

  • Fuel Consumption: 26 mpg 

  • Acceleration: zero to 60 mph: 18.5 seconds   

Known Imperfections 

• Inoperable clock 

• Some surface rust on underside heat exchangers 

Included 

• Factory issued Volkswagen certificate 

• Original radio 

• Full sized spare 

• Miscellaneous parts including: front fuel vapor canister, gaskets, belt, lenses, and tune up parts 

Ownership History

According to Volkswagen certificate, this final-year 1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible is noted to have been originally delivered to Washington. Later this matching numbers example was restored in late 1997/early 1998 in New Brunswick, Canada over a five-year period. On the road by 2002, the cars saw approximatly 1,000 miles of use each year over the next 18 years. In 2020, the car sold to the consignor who took delivery of the car at the U.S. border in New York state and drove it home through the northeast to Colorado that year.