Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Variants

We live and breathe all things Volkswagen Karmann Ghia here —

and when we say “Karmann Ghia”, you’re probably thinking about the standard Type 14 in all its glory. But did you know that there are some seriously special variants of this beauty out there?

Today, we’re going to take a closer look at a few seriously air-cool Volkswagen Karmann Ghia editions that deserve a shout-out every now and then.

1. Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Type 34 “Razor Edge”

The first on our list is the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Type 34, affectionately known as the “Razor Edge.”

Instead of sharing its chassis with the Volkswagen Beetle like its more common counterpart – the Type 14, the Type 34 was mounted upon a Type 3 chassis. It also sported a more angular and spacious design; features that were unique to the Type 34, such as all bodywork and bumpers, the interior, glass, and most of the lenses. And with a 1500cc ‘pancake’ engine, it was the quickest VW of its day — right up until the Porsche 914 came along.

There were concepts around a convertible model of the Type 34, too, with prototypes in existence. However, there were only 17 built, and the Type 34 convertible never really came to fruition.

It’s the Karmann Ghia for those who want to stand out from the crowd. With its unique look and a peppy engine, the Type 34 – albeit sometimes an acquired taste – is a real gem on the classic scene.

VWB Brazilian VW Karmann Ghia TC. Image credit: Renzo Maia | Picsaweb
VWB Brazilian VW Karmann Ghia TC. Image credit: Renzo Maia | Picsaweb

3. Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible

Now, we can’t forget the convertible lovers out there.

August 1957 saw the introduction of the cabriolet model — which oozed sex appeal, and looked more like a Hollywood magazine car than something that had rolled out of a German factory.

The Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible combines the best of both worlds: classic Karmann Ghia aesthetics with the joy of open-top driving. This is the perfect ride for those sunny Sunday drives through the countryside — or in our case, along the seaside. And if you fancy souping up the engine, people will be checking you out wherever you go.

 


 

Need Convertible parts? We’ve got em! And with an ever increasing catalogue, there’s no wonder why we’re Europe’s top dedicated Karmann Ghia specialists!

Type 34 Karmann Ghia - Californian Classics
Type 34 Karmann Ghia - Californian Classics
Volkswagen Karman Ghia Type 34 Cabriolet 1961 - Image Credit: Lebubu93 | Wikimedia
Volkswagen Karman Ghia Type 34 Cabriolet 1961 - Image Credit: Lebubu93 | Wikimedia

2. Volkswagen Karmann Ghia TC

Next up, we have the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia TC, or the Type 145. This Italian-designed beauty was a product of collaboration between Volkswagen do Brazil and Carrozzeria Ghia in the late 60s, and it oozes style. Its sleek lines and classic charm make it a real head-turner.

If you’re after a rare find, the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia TC 145 might be up your alley. Produced exclusively in Brazil, and never exported during production, this special edition Ghia featured a 1,584 cc flat-four air-cooled boxer unit, roomy 2+2 passenger space, and unique modern design touches.

It’s a testament to how the Karmann Ghia made its mark across the globe.

Volkswagen Karmann Ghia convertible, carried out by Californian Classics
Volkswagen Karmann Ghia convertible, carried out by Californian Classics

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