1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible |

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1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible

Sold Price

£22,512

Mileage~58,820 on the clock
TransmissionManual
Engine1.6-litre
LocationBrigg, North Lincolnshire

SOLD

1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible

I WANT ONE

Introduction

Paul Wright

Professional Consigner

Styled by the famous Carrozzeria Ghia Italian design house - a stunning silhouette.

Built by Volkswagen, the Karmann Ghia was styled by the famous Ghia Italian design house, one of the most influential Italian vehicle designers, and the German coach-building house, Karmann. The Type 14 Karmann Ghia (1956-1974) was initially available as a coupé, with the convertible, such as the model seen in the listing, coming a year later. With public reaction to the Type 14 exceeding expectations, more than 10,000 were sold in its first production year. The car combined the chassis and mechanical elements of the Type 1 and Type 3 VW Beetle with hand-shaped and built bodywork, resulting in a time-consuming process usually practised by higher-end manufacturers.

Our vendor, Jim, purchased this 1971 Karmann Ghia via us as an unfinished project almost a year and a half ago. Since then, Jim has reassembled the jigsaw and added many new parts to put this classic VW back on the road and reassuringly comes with a current and long MOT valid until the 13th of July 2026.

This listing was written from information supplied by Paul after meeting James the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

From an apprentice mechanic in the '60s, the love for classic cars has never fallen far from Jim’s heart.

Since retiring seven years ago, Jim has turned his passion for classic cars into a full-time hobby and started restoring them. His passion and experience have allowed him to become fully involved in all aspects of restorations, and the end result would see another classic hit the road once again. Jim has also taken it upon himself to carry out work for other enthusiasts who need work completed on their classics.

As soon as Jim saw our auction for the unfinished project Karmann Ghia, he knew it was something he could tackle and enjoy. The main work left to complete was mechanical, which easily fell into his skill set.

Jim will be happy to answer any questions into the comments section below.

James

Vehicle Owner

James saved £3,960* when they
sold their VW with us.

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EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

The Karmann Ghia Cabriolet blends graceful curves and elegant proportions, giving it a timeless, almost effortless style.

Wheels and Tyres

Fitted with 15” steel wheels, these have been finished in white and are in good condition. The VW centre caps are also in good order.

The tyres currently fitted to the car are Mabor General at the rear and have a spec of 165 R15, and a Michelin and a Firestone at the front with spec 155 R15 they have been noted as an advisory on the recent MOT. Jim will have all four tyres replaced by the time the auction ends.

Please take a look at the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior of the Karmann Ghia and a closer look at the wheels and tyres to make your own assessment of their condition.

Bodywork

When Jim got the Karmann Ghia, the previous company that started the restoration had already taken care of the bodywork. The car is reported to have been sandblasted, followed by any corrosion being cut out and replaced with new metal.

The shut lines appear equal, and there are no dings or dents to point out around the car.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

Finished in a striking metallic red, the paintwork is in excellent condition. Jim has had the petrol flap scanned at his local paint suppliers, and it is believed that the colour is in fact a Mazda MX-5 colour.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there yourself. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The windows appear to be in good condition, with no excessive scratches noted.

The chrome trim has a small amount of tarnishing, but nothing excessive.

Jim has fitted a new Sonnenland Mohair hood, which has padding and a headliner to the underside - this fits well and is easily dropped in a few seconds.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

A cosy, leather-trimmed cabin that matches its laid-back, open-top character.

Seats and Carpets

The seats were retrimmed prior to Jim getting the car; these have been finished in white leather with red piping and ‘Karmann Ghia’ stitched into the headrests.

Both seats are in excellent condition, having not been used much since the car was completed.

A new full set of carpets has been fitted, which fit nicely throughout the cabin.

Dashboard

After some searching, Jim managed to source a replacement right-hand-drive vinyl dash top, which was in good condition.

The dash fascia is finished to match the exterior and is free from scratches.

All the instruments are working correctly, and the odometer shows ~58,820 miles.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Jim has fitted a replacement steering wheel which matches the original style and is in excellent condition.

The gear knob is also in good order.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

With a freshly rebuilt 1600cc engine, the Karmann Ghia is ready to jump in and enjoy.

Engine and Gearbox

The fully rebuilt air-cooled engine fires up without hesitation and with a sound unique to the classic VW air-cooled.

Running with no issues reported, the car performs well on the road and pulls well through the four-speed gearbox, which has a nice change.

Suspension and Brakes

On the road, the Karmann Ghia handles well, with a ride typical for its era.

There are no knocks or bangs from either corner, and the car comes to a stop in a straight line with no problems mentioned.

This is thanks to the braking system being fully overhauled and new bushes fitted to the suspension components.

The Drive

Driving a 1971 Karmann Ghia Convertible is all about charm and simplicity. The low-slung curves, light steering, and easy gearshift make it a pleasure on winding roads, while the air-cooled flat-four hums along at a relaxed pace.

With the roof down, it turns every trip into a leisurely escape. Comfortable and agile - it’s best enjoyed unhurried, drawing admiring glances and proving that style can be as rewarding as speed.

Electrics and Other

All switchgear appears to function correctly and is in good condition for its age.

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History and Paperwork

A nice history file shows just how much time and money Jim spent on completing this jigsaw.

Most of the history dates back to when Jim purchased the car and shows just how much work has gone into finishing this classic VW. This includes several invoices that show the various parts required to complete Jim's jigsaw journey.

From a partially finished project to a complete running Karmann Ghia, Jim has given it his all to return another classic to the road, which is what brings him the most pleasure.

Now that he has put in all the hard work, it is time for the lucky bidder to benefit from his many hours of work.

We’ve carried out our usual seller checks, including verifying photo ID, the V5C, and an HPI check. This confirms the car has not been stolen, written off, or has any outstanding finance. Please note: This check does not include mileage verification.

We’ve summarised the car based on the seller’s information above. As always, we go to great lengths to photograph and film the car in high-resolution detail so you can make your own informed assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So grab a cuppa, sit back, and enjoy reviewing everything in this listing.

Viewings are welcome for all our listings. Please get in touch to arrange a time – we just need to speak with you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If you have any questions — no matter how small — please ask the seller in the comments section below before placing your bids, as bids cannot be retracted and form a binding contract if you win, just like in a traditional auction house.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
14.07.2025	MOT	58,809

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Key Details

ModelKarmann Ghia Convertible
TransmissionManual
Reg. Date08.04.1971
CC1584
Mileage~58,820 on the clock
ColourRed Metallic
Interior ColourWhite
Interior TrimLeather
Chassis #1412281894
Engine #AS106392
RestoredYes
Engine RebuildYes
MOTYes Exp. 13.07.2026
MOT ExemptYes
Road Tax ExemptYes
HPi ClearYes - all clear
Former Keepers7
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned1 year, 4 months
Key FeatureCondition
Vehicle RegistrationFVB 4J
Driver’s SideRight
Fuel TypePetrol
Body TypeConvertible
Auction ID3039

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All Images

All Videos

Vehicle Sold

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Ask Questions

Seller : Jim B Sale Date 04.09.2025

Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.

6 Comments

rich42

9 months ago

Good afternoon Jim, looking at the pictures what condition is the floor pans in looks like they have had some repairs in the past ? Thanks in advance Rich

Jim B

Seller

rich42

9 months ago

Hi Rich thanks for the interest in my Karmann Ghia, the floor pans are in great condition, I am not sure what work was done to the body before I purchased the car.
Thanks
Jim

thomas46

9 months ago

Hi,
When would be the best time to have a viewing please?
Best regards,
Thomas

Jim B

Seller

thomas46

9 months ago

Hi Thomas thanks for the interest in the Karmann Ghia, all viewings are handled by TC. If you could send them an email to [email protected] and they will arrange this for you. Thanks again for your interest. Jim

Spudx2

10 months ago

Hi Jim, has the car been converted to RHD or it original many thanks

Jim B

Seller

Spudx2

10 months ago

Hi thanks for taking an interest in my Karmann Ghia, the car is an original RHD and has not been converted. If you need more information or details please let me know. Thanks Jim

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Vehicle Location

Brigg, North Lincolnshire

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