It is with great excitement that we announce a number of Karmann prototype vehicles to be exhibited at the 2015 Volksworld show, all thanks to our partnership with VW Classic Parts.

The show will be celebrating 60 years of the Karmann Ghia model, and what better way to pay homage to the beautiful coupe (and convertible) than to find 3, money can’t buy, prototype examples at the Karmann museum in Osnabruck, and borrow them for a short while!

Fortunately, as mentioned above, we know the guys at VW Classic pretty well, and they were only too happy to oblige. The hardest part when presented with the keys to a museum is what to choose! Here’s what we decided on, we hope you like them, and get to see them in the flesh for yourself in the Spring.

1. The Karmann Ghia prototype, 1953. Built behind the backs of Volkswagen with the help of Carozzeria Ghia, this car was the very example that won VW over, and secured the success of the Karmann Ghia. The first production car was launched to much applause in July 1955, but this was the first, and for that reason we had to share it with you.

2. The next car simply blew us away; we’d never seen anything like it, and it just had to come to England for the show! Built in the mid 60’s, it is a prototype convertible, based on the VW type 1 chassis. Featuring a lightweight canopy roof, it’s styled by Ghia, and appears like something from a science fiction film. Of course, the car never went to production, but this is what could of been for the Type14.

Third, but by no means last, is the 1600 TL prototype from 1965. Whilst its similarities with the Type 34 ‘Ghia are clear, the rear is a complete one off, featuring fastback lines but with a fully functioning hatchback, commonplace today, but something still unusual in 1965. Inside there is seating for 4, with the rear bench folding flat for ultimate practicality… perfect!

We hope you agree with us that these are three pretty special vehicles, each with their own link to the Karmann Ghia’s 60 year history. With a bit of luck you will be able to join us at the Volksworld show in March to see them in the flesh. We can’t wait!

Andy

The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of the author and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of VW Heritage