LOT 55

1968 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible Chassis no. 148471462 Engine no. HO533392

Sold for US$15,680 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

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Lot 55

1968 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible

The Laguna Seca Auction|13 August 2026, 10:00 PDT|WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

1968 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible
Chassis no. 148471462
Engine no. HO533392

1,493cc Rear-Mounted Air-Cooled Flat-Four Engine
Dual carburetors
50bhp at 4200rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Independent suspension with torsion bar springs, front and rear
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes

* Third-owner example presented in its original Gobi Beige and Khaki Brown color combination
* Rare factory dealer-option Riviera wheels fitted from new
* Original interior retains attractive patina with replacement seat cushions
* Accompanied by its original factory radio
* Reportedly runs and drives well, sporting original soft top

THE CAR OFFERED

The Volkswagen Karmann Ghia combined the dependable mechanical foundation of the Beetle with elegant Italian styling to create one of the most distinctive sporting automobiles of its era. Introduced in 1955, the Type 14 was penned by Carrozzeria Ghia and hand-assembled by German coachbuilder Karmann, transforming Volkswagen's utilitarian platform into a graceful grand touring coupe and, from 1957, a convertible. Its flowing bodywork has long been noted for its resemblance to Virgil Exner's Chrysler D'Elegance and K-310 concept cars, both of which Ghia had helped realize.

While performance remained modest, the Karmann Ghia's balanced handling, refined styling, and everyday practicality earned it worldwide popularity, securing its place as one of the most enduring automotive designs of the postwar period.

This example early 1968 model, built in 1967, is finished in its original color combination of Gobi Beige with Khaki Brown upholstery and a black soft top. The body has benefited from a sympathetic repaint while remaining faithful to its factory colors, and the interior retains much of its original character, including the original upholstery with replacement seat cushions. The original soft top remains in place. A particularly desirable feature is its set of Riviera wheels, believed to be the original wheels from the dealership when new, a rare and highly sought after option among Karmann Ghia enthusiasts. Also accompanying the car is its original factory radio, currently not fitted.

Displaying an honest, well-preserved patina, this attractive convertible is reported by the owner to run well and comes with receipts of a full tuneup and service, making it an appealing example of Volkswagen's stylish coachbuilt classic—a symbol of the 1960s counterculture, often associated with freedom and style.

Additional information

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