There’s a reason this 1963 Karmann Ghia, now for sale on eBay, looks a little funny. It’s a Type 34 model, introduced in 1961 but never sold in the US. It’s one of just 400 believed to be on our shores now.
The two-tone Pacific Blue-Green and white paint job softens the impact of this far more angular approach to the Karmann Ghia. And it’s not just the styling that’s different. The Type 34 sat on the new and roomier Type 3 platform, which offered a refined 1,500-cc engine with 44 horsepower and razor-edged styling by Ghia’s Sergio Sartorelli.
These were expensive cars in their day, costing about twice as much as a nicely optioned Beetle. Amenities included an electric clock, three places for luggage, fog lights, dash pads up and down, and padded armrests. That’s luxury.
The upscale image explains why Volkswagen didn’t sell many of them between ’61 and ’69. And it sheds light on why VW bigwigs kept them out of the US. Pricey cars ran counter to the brand’s affordable image.
American buyers experienced the Type 3 as the popular 1500 and 1600 Squareback wagons, the similar Fastback, and the rarer Notchback. Volkswagen made only 42,505 Type 34s, a number that includes 17 prototype convertibles.
Period-Correct Fittings and the Original Color Scheme
This car came to the US through the good graces of an American serviceman. It has 81,000 miles on the odometer and spent many years in an Arizona garage. It’s very original but was repainted (in the original colors) many years ago. There are a few blemishes, as well as a light patina on the chrome bumpers.
The green body color extends into the cabin, where it’s used for the painted metal dashboard, door cards, and seats—vinyl with cloth inserts. The original Bendix Sapphire radio is still there, as are the VDO instruments.
The 1.5-liter “pancake” four-cylinder motor runs well. The seller adds:
The engine bay displays an appropriate level of patina, with period-correct fittings and accessories.
The correct gray vinyl liners are in place in both the front and rear storage areas. Underneath, there is some minor surface rust.
A Ready Supply of Components
Here’s the excellent news. The car for sale on eBay is rare, but its components are not. The platform underpinning this Karmann Ghia was also on cars selling in the hundreds of thousands in the US. The 1.5- and 1.6-liter engines are common. eBay’s inventory of Karmann Ghia parts has many mechanical parts that would fit.
Shop now for vintage Karmann Ghia parts
Body and interior parts will be slightly harder to find, so if you’re planning to buy one of these Karmann Ghias, definitely look for one with good bones—like the example offered.
You can also think about acquiring a more conventional Ghia with major parts support. eBay usually has a nice collection of Karmann Ghias available for sale.
