Volkswagen Karmann Ghia 
Technical specifications
Brand: Volkswagen
Model: Karmann Ghia
Type: Sport cars
Manufacturing of Volkswagen Karmann Ghia
Since: 1955
Until: 1975
Designer: Luigi Segre
Gearbox
Reverse gear: 1
Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: history and specs
The Karmann Ghia (Type 14) was a 2+2 coupé and a two-seater convertible marketed by Volkswagen between 1955 and 1974. Both variants were designed by Carrozzeria Ghia and assembled by the German coachbuilder Karmann.
Conception
The Volkswagen Karmann Ghia was conceived as an affordable sports car with an elegant and distinguished design. Volkswagen sought to offer a car that combined the mechanical reliability of its standard models with a more exciting and attractive style.
Launch
The Karmann Ghia was first presented at the 1953 Paris Motor Show as a concept car designed by Luigi Segre of the Italian company Ghia.
It was so well received that Volkswagen decided to produce it in collaboration with the coachbuilder Karmann.
Technical Specifications
Engines:
- During its production run, the Karmann Ghia was available with a variety of Volkswagen engines, including 1200 cc, 1300 cc, 1500 cc, and 1600 cc 4-cylinder engines.
- Although not a particularly powerful car, its lightweight and aerodynamic design made it agile and fun to drive.
Style and Design:
- The Karmann Ghia's design was the work of Italian designer Luigi Segre and was characterized by its smooth lines and elegant curves.
- It had a sporty and distinguished appearance that This made it stand out among the cars of the time.
Construction and Bodywork:
- The Karmann Ghia's body was built on the Volkswagen Type 1 (Beetle) platform, giving it a solid and reliable structure.
- The collaboration with Karmann allowed for high-quality bodywork construction, with handcrafted details and special attention to the finishes.
Interior and Equipment:
- Despite being a sports car, the Karmann Ghia offered a relatively spacious and comfortable interior for two passengers.
- It featured well-designed seats, a simple and functional instrument panel, and a rear cargo space adequate for a car of this type.
Sales Success
The Volkswagen Karmann Ghia was a An instant success, both in Europe and the United States, where it became a very popular car among sports car enthusiasts and those looking for a stylish car at an affordable price.
During its production run, which lasted from 1955 to 1974, more than 450,000 units were sold worldwide, making it one of Volkswagen's most successful cars.
Among Collectors
Today, the Karmann Ghia is a cult car among classic and vintage car enthusiasts. Its timeless design, distinctive elegance, and status as an iconic car from a golden age of the automotive industry make it highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
The appeal of the Karmann Ghia endures to this day, remembered as a car that combined Italian charm in its design with Volkswagen's reliability and affordability.
Its place in the history of sports cars remains significant, and its presence at classic car events and exhibitions is always well received by enthusiasts.
Photos of model Volkswagen Karmann Ghia
Contemporary vehicles of Volkswagen Karmann Ghia
Other models launched in 1955:
Citroën DS
Biscúter 200 A
IRESA Motocarro
Derbi 125 Super