1966 Volkswagen

⭕ THE SALE

This 1966 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia is currently in a 2-week auction on our website. This is our guide price, i.e. what we think the car is worth in the current market, however, the reserve will be lower. You can read much more about the car, see of hundreds of detailed photos and videos of it, and ask the seller any questions on our website: we can't add links on this platform, so please search for "Trade Classics" on Google.

⭕ VEHICLE SUMMARY

Pristine California time-warp survivor, with only 2 previous keepers, boasting hand-built Italian elegance.

Designed by Italian studio Carrozzeria Ghia and hand-built by coachbuilder Karmann, the Karmann Ghia (Type 14) stands as one of Volkswagen’s most iconic creations - affectionately known as 'the Beetle in an evening gown.' Introduced to elevate VW's image from purely utilitarian to genuinely stylish, it combined swooping, hand-finished Italian elegance with simple, reliable air-cooled engineering. The 1966 model year marked a key turning point in its history with the introduction of the 1300cc engine, adding vital highway capability to match its head-turning looks. Today, it remains a celebrated symbol of mid-century design and a cornerstone of classic Volkswagen heritage.

Widely celebrated as one of the most beautiful automotive shapes of the 20th century, the Karmann Ghia effortlessly marries exotic Italian elegance with bulletproof German engineering. While mechanically built on the simple, reliable foundations of the Beetle, its bodywork was remarkably labour-intensive. Each panel was meticulously hand-welded, butt-jointed, and finished with lead solder to create a smooth, seamless silhouette. The result was a coach-built masterpiece that offered genuine Italian style and artisanal craftsmanship at a fraction of the cost of its exotic contemporaries.

Finished in classic Lotus White over a contrasting black vinyl interior, this remarkably original 1966 Karmann Ghia presents in near-factory condition throughout. Preserved for almost half a century under the dry California sun with its original owner, it stands as one of the most authentic examples on the market today. Imported to the UK in 2016, it has remained in the care of dedicated enthusiasts committed to maintaining its pristine originality.

Supported by a detailed history file with invoices dating from the late 1960s to date, it retains its original owner’s manuals, stamped service book, two keys, and a collection of spare parts. It represents a rare opportunity to acquire a true time-warp survivor, ready to be cherished by its next discerning collector - and will be particularly desirable in the buoyant European mainland market.

⭕ VEHICLE DETAIL

We've written a longer and more detailed description of this vehicle on our website, which will answer all of your burning questions. To see the car on our site then just search for us, Trade Classics, on Google.

⭕ BEFORE YOU CALL US

We love to talk about cars, but more than 90% of buyers' questions are answered in the full listings on our website: there you'll find a huge amount of detailed information about this car's history, condition, and specification - as well as hundreds of detailed photos and videos. Don't worry: if you still have a question, please just give us a call during office hours.

⭕ ABOUT US

Trade Classics is the most trusted auction house in the UK, with 4.9* on TrustPilot and thousands of happy buyers and sellers. Our mission is to provide the most honest and transparent listings available. By helping you avoid scammers, timewasters, and expensive platform fees, we make the process of buying and selling a car as pleasurable as driving it.