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Vehicle Description
The three-way partnership of Volkswagen, Karmann, and Carrozzeria
Ghia was born of the post-war economic boom, which saw middle-class
buying power grow exponentially. As buyers demanded more from their
automobiles, style and performance became top selling points.
Volkswagen built its name on the "cheap and cheerful" Beetle, so
the thought was that a stylish sporty coupe could boost their
image, particularly in the critical USA market. But the boffins in
Wolfsburg were reluctant to give the green light, as production was
already at maximum capacity with the Beetle and Type 2 bus. The
project's savior came via Wilhelm Karmann, who was eager to secure
more of VW's business beyond the limited coachbuilt convertible
Beetles he was already building. He offered VW the use of his
production line and skilled workers for the new sporty car and
brought Gigi Segre of Ghia on board to provide the styling. The
beautiful new Volkswagen shared its underpinnings with the Type 1
Beetle, meaning it was simple, robust, and dependable. The
beautiful Italian styling made the Type 14 Karmann-Ghia an
overnight classic, remaining essentially unchanged and widely
adored for its entire 19-year production run. Volkswagen figured it
couldn't survive on Type 1 Beetles alone and diversified with a new
family car platform. The new Type 3 of 1961 was envisioned as a
more mature car with superior power, space, and refinement compared
to the Beetle. Three standard body styles were offered on a common
shared platform and were functional and respectably styled with a
strong VW family resemblance. Volkswagen wanted a flagship model to
promote the Type 3, and again turned to Karmann and Ghia to create
it. Known commonly as the "Type 34," the new Karmann-Ghia 1500 was
a completely different car from the Type 14 Karmann-Ghia, and it
featured crisp and sophisticated styling penned by Sergio
Sartorelli for Ghia. Thanks to that lovely but labor-intensive
body, the Type 34 debuted the most expensive VW of its day, costing
the equivalent of two well-equipped Beetles. Despite its offering
many luxury features, the price was difficult for customers to
overcome, and it sold in relatively small numbers between 1961 and
1969. Because of VW's reputation for value in the US, the Type 34
was never officially imported, which further reduced the overall
sales. It is estimated that just a couple hundred examples have
come stateside in the hands of enthusiasts through the years, and
they are among the most sought-after and distinctive air-cooled
VWs. The 1963 Volkswagen Type 34 offered here is an exceptionally
well-preserved example of this rarely-seen Karmann-Ghia variant.
This highly original car is refreshingly honest and authentic,
discovered locally after years tucked away in a garage. Finished in
a lovely two-tone color scheme of Pacific Green with a white roof,
the livery is a fine complement for the Ghia-designed shape,
highlighting its crisp lines and fascinating detail. The body and
structure are remarkably solid, and the older respray is
attractive, with just a few touchups and imperfections that fit
well with the car's authentic character. Nearly all of the
brightwork is original, displaying a moderate patina on the
bumpers, in particular. It rides on original-style cream-colored
steel wheels, fitted with correct dog-dish hubcaps and new radial
tires. Like the exterior, the interior is incredibly well-preserved
and appears to be mostly original to the car. The seats and door
cards are upholstered in turquoise leatherette with tweed fabric
inserts. Aside from a minor flaw on the rear bench, the upholstery
is in excellent condition and reflects this car's remarkably
well-preserved nature. The Type 34 was the most expensive and
best-equipped VW of its time, and the cabin has a decidedly
upmarket feel with unique pushbutton controls for the wipers and
lights, a Bendix Sapphire radio, and distinctive VDO instruments.
Both front and rear trunks retain the original gray vinyl lining,
in excellent order. The car is mechanically in good sound
condition, and the 1500 "pancake" engine looks tidy and runs well.
The engine bay displays an appropriate level of patina, with
period-correct fittings and accessories. Underneath, the floor pans
and structure appear excellent, with only some minor surface
corrosion noted Type 34 Ghias are an incredibly rare sight on our
shores, particularly in this car's remarkably original condition.
Brimming with character, it is a superb choice for Cars & Coffee
gatherings, casual club events, and regular driving enjoyment with
the family. Offers welcome and trades considered For additional
details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6645-1963-volkswagen-type-34-karmann-ghia-coupe/
