1970 VW Karmann Ghia (Black)

1970 VW Karmann Ghia (Black)

• First Registered: March 1970

• DVLA Registration: September 2021

• Engine: 1600cc, Manual

• Drive: Left-hand drive

• Current Colour: Black (originally Red, photos available)

• Interior: Black

Details:

• Includes original handbook, previous titles of ownership, export documents, and bills

• In excellent condition, always stored in a dry space

• Only sparingly used, carefully dried off if exposed to rain

• Mileage: Only 12,326 miles covered

• At least two previous owners

A fantastic example of the iconic Karmann Ghia, offering a great driving experience. This car would make awonderful addition to any classic car collection.

The 1970 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia is a true classic that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of mid-20th-century automotive design and engineering. A rare gem among classic cars, this particular model is especially remarkable due to its excellent condition, preserved history, and low mileage, making it a coveted piece for any car enthusiast or collector.

Exterior and Design

This specific 1970 Karmann Ghia comes in a striking black finish, though its original colour was a vibrant red. Photos of the car in its former red hue are available, adding an interesting historical context to its journey. The black paintwork, carefully maintained, adds an aura of elegance and timelessness to the car's already graceful design. Karmann Ghias are known for their distinctive, flowing lines that blend Volkswagen's dependable engineering with Italian-inspired styling, courtesy of the famed designer Ghia. The car's curvaceous body is sleek and aerodynamic, giving it a sporty yet sophisticated appearance.

Every detail of the car’s exterior speaks to the craftsmanship of its era. The low, sloping nose and rounded fenders are iconic features, and the chrome accents on the bumpers and trim offer a gleaming contrast to the black body. This particular Karmann Ghia also retains its original headlights and taillights, which add a touch of vintage charm while maintaining its authenticity. The wheels are in excellent condition, further reflecting the careful preservation of the car throughout its lifetime.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, this Karmann Ghia is powered by a 1600cc engine, a manual transmission that offers a genuine driving experience from the era. Known for their reliability, VW air-cooled engines like this one are simple yet effective, providing enough power to make the Karmann Ghia a fun and engaging car to drive without overwhelming the senses. The engine's compact size is perfect for the Karmann Ghia's lightweight body, making it nimble on the road while maintaining the efficiency Volkswagen was known for.

The engine has been meticulously maintained and, despite its age, still runs smoothly. With only 12,326 miles covered, this car has been sparingly used over its more than 50-year lifespan. The mileage suggests that the car has been driven carefully and primarily for special occasions rather than as a daily driver. This limited use is undoubtedly a major factor in its excellent condition, ensuring that the engine and other mechanical components have experienced minimal wear and tear.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside, the Karmann Ghia offers a simple yet stylish interior, befitting a car of its stature. The cabin is finished in black, mirroring the exterior and creating a cohesive look throughout the vehicle. The dashboard, seats, and interior panels are all in excellent condition, having been well cared for over the years. The seats are covered in high-quality black upholstery, which shows minimal signs of aging, indicating that the car has been treated with respect by its previous owners.

The interior is clean and uncluttered, reflecting the minimalistic design philosophy of the time. The Karmann Ghia’s dashboard is straightforward, featuring a classic VW speedometer, fuel gauge, and a few essential switches and dials. The simplicity of the layout enhances the driving experience, allowing the driver to focus on the road and the joy of driving without unnecessary distractions. The steering wheel and gear shift lever are original, showing only minor signs of use, which adds to the authenticity and charm of the car.

Despite being over five decades old, the interior remains comfortable, with well-padded seats that provide adequate support for both short drives and longer journeys. The manual windows and basic ventilation system remind you of the car’s vintage origins, but they also contribute to the sense of nostalgia that makes driving a classic car like this such a special experience.

Ownership History and Documentation

One of the most compelling aspects of this 1970 Karmann Ghia is its well-documented history. It has had at least two previous owners, both of whom appear to have treated the car with great care and respect. This is evident from its excellent condition and the extensive documentation that accompanies the vehicle. Included with the car are the original handbook, previous titles of ownership, export documents, and various bills related to its maintenance and upkeep. These documents provide invaluable insight into the car’s past, offering a clear picture of its journey from when it was first registered in March 1970 to its more recent history.

The car was registered with the UK’s Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in September 2021, having spent time abroad before being imported. The export documents provide further details on this, adding another layer of intrigue to the car’s story. Owning such a well-documented classic car adds to the overall value and appeal, especially for collectors who value provenance and history as much as the car itself.

Maintenance and Storage

One of the key reasons this Karmann Ghia has remained in such superb condition is the care it has received over the years. According to its current and previous owners, the car has always been stored in a dry space, protecting it from the harmful effects of moisture and the elements. This careful storage has preserved both the exterior and interior, ensuring that rust and other forms of deterioration have been kept at bay.

Furthermore, the car has only been sparingly used, with its owners making sure it was carefully dried off if it was ever exposed to rain. This level of care is rare, even among classic car owners, and it speaks volumes about the condition of the car today. All mechanical and electrical components are reportedly in excellent working order, making this Karmann Ghia not just a beautiful car to look at but also a joy to drive.

A Classic Worthy of Any Collection

The 1970 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia is often hailed as one of the most beautiful cars ever produced by Volkswagen. Its combination of timeless design, reliable engineering, and the sheer fun of driving a manual, rear-engine car makes it a favourite among classic car enthusiasts. This particular model, with its black exterior, black interior, and meticulously preserved condition, stands out as a truly exceptional example.

The low mileage of just over 12,000 miles, combined with its careful use and storage, ensures that this Karmann Ghia is in remarkable condition for its age. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of classic cars, this vehicle represents an opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. Its excellent condition, well-documented history, and iconic design make it a worthy addition to any collection. In short, this 1970 Karmann Ghia is a fantastic example of the model and a testament to the enduring appeal of classic Volkswagens.