Members Cars
Eric & Ann
VOLKSWAGEN KARMANN GHIA-1969 LEFT HAND DRIVE MODEL 141 CONVERTIBLE CHASSIS NUMBER 1402307798
1584CC ENGINE NUMBER R004414 - SOLEX CARB PICT2- AUTO CHOKE- FOUR SPEED-DISC BRAKES ON FRONT-NON-STANDARD COLOUR-PERRYWINKLE BLUE.This car was originally exported to the U.S.A. though no history is known. Re-imported to the U.K. in 2003, extensively restored, parts alone where over £3000. Bought off E.Bay in May 2007, after bidding for two others. It had only done 2000 miles over 3 years and though requires a new hood, soon to be done, is in good mechanical condition. Made the journey from the U.K. in two and half days, returning 35 to the gallon and is quite happy and safe to cruise at around 70 MPH.
KARMANN GHIAS were produced from 1955-1974 design work by LUIGA SEGRE of GHIA in Turin Italy and built by WILLIAM KARMANN GMBH-OSNABRUCK Germany. The iconic shape never changed, except for lights and indicators, to conform to American rules. However the engines changed as the Beetle became more powerful-1200 through to 1600.
Only 80,877 convertibles were produced, many succumbing to the tin worm. Those surviving are now a established Classic Icon of car design, being easy to maintain and having a ready supply of spare parts. They are not too expensive to buy or run, and are a good investment that can be enjoyed.
Posted by Webmaster2 on 2007-09-27
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