Image of 1968 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, sourced from www.jpfrazier.com , Image Link.

1968 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: A Timeless Classic

The 1968 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia is a testament to the allure of elegant design fused with reliable engineering. Born from a collaboration between the German automaker Volkswagen and the Italian designer Carrozzeria Ghia, with coachwork by the German firm Karmann, this vehicle stands as a hallmark of automotive artistry. Its historical significance lies not only in its beauty but also in its role as a bridge between the utilitarian ethos of Volkswagen and the grandeur of Italian design. A notable moment in its history was when it became known as one of the most beautifully designed Volkswagens ever made, earning it a cult following that persists to this day.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the Karmann Ghia is characterized by its flowing lines, long hood, and curvaceous fenders—a stark contrast to the boxy shapes prevalent in many cars of its era. The interior is equally striking, with an emphasis on simplicity and functionality. The quality of materials reflects a commitment to craftsmanship, with features like the flat-faced dashboard and chrome accents that add a touch of sophistication. Technologically, it carried over much from the Beetle but wrapped it in a far more appealing package. Color options ranged from vibrant hues to more subdued tones, with choices like Sea Blue and Cherry Red often catching the eye of enthusiasts. The coupe body style remains iconic, though a convertible option offered an open-air driving experience that was highly coveted.

Historical Significance

The Karmann Ghia's impact on automotive design is undeniable; it brought European styling to a broader audience without compromising on reliability or affordability. It stood apart from contemporaries by offering an air-cooled rear engine layout within a body that exuded Italian flair—a combination unheard of at its price point. Its lasting influence can be seen in how it paved the way for other manufacturers to explore partnerships with design houses.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1968 Karmann Ghia offered modest performance credentials, with top speeds around 90 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph in about 18 seconds. Handling was nimble for its time, thanks to its lightweight construction and balanced weight distribution. Drivers often remark on the tactile feedback through the steering wheel and the distinctive air-cooled engine note that becomes all the more engaging as you push through the gears.

Ownership Experience

The Karmann Ghia was versatile enough to serve as a daily driver or a weekend showpiece. Its mechanical underpinnings shared with the Beetle meant maintenance was straightforward and parts were readily available. Reliability was one of its strong suits, although rust could be an issue if not properly managed.

Fun Facts

Amongst enthusiasts, tales abound of rare editions like the 'Type 34', which featured a more angular design and is sought after for its rarity. Celebrity ownerships have included names like John F. Kennedy and Jay Leno, enhancing its cool factor. While it wasn't known for setting speed records, it did set benchmarks for sales among sports cars in its class during its production run.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors cherish the 1968 Karmann Ghia for its unique blend of style and practicality. With over 445,000 units produced during its entire production run from 1955 to 1974, it's moderately rare but still accessible for enthusiasts looking to own a piece of automotive history. Values vary widely based on condition and originality but typically range from $10,000 for a driver-quality example up to $30,000 or more for concours-level specimens.

Conclusion

The 1968 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia stands as an icon of mid-century automotive design—a vehicle that transcends mere transportation to become something truly special. It's a car that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike with its timeless elegance and enduring charm.

1968 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates-FS 40Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates. Apply with contact cement. 7-5/8" long X 5-5/8" wide at top. Pair

1968 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Oil Cooler Seal. 7/16" I.D., 7/8" O.D. Each-RP 8-BOil Cooler Seal. 7/16" I.D., 7/8" O.D. Each