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Unveiling the Elegance of the 1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia

The 1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia is a testament to the fusion of German engineering and Italian design flair. This iconic car, born from the collaboration between Volkswagen and the coachbuilding expertise of Karmann, was further beautified by the Italian design house Ghia. Its sleek lines and curvaceous bodywork stood as a beacon of style amidst an era dominated by utilitarian design. A unique fact that may pique your interest: the Karmann Ghia was never officially named by Volkswagen, but rather, it was christened by the public who adored its charm.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1963 Karmann Ghia is a visual symphony, with its low-slung roofline, elongated hood, and rounded fenders that seem to hug the road. The vehicle's elegance is accentuated by chrome accents and slender, minimalist body trim. Inside, occupants are greeted with a simple yet sophisticated cabin, where high-quality vinyl and tactile fabrics meet in harmonious balance. The dashboard's clean design focuses on driver ergonomics, housing essential instruments within easy view.

For its time, the Karmann Ghia featured innovations like a synchronized manual transmission and an electrical system that was 12 volts ahead of many contemporaries still using 6 volts. Color options ranged from vibrant hues to more subdued tones, with Sea Blue and Ruby Red being among the popular choices. The coupe was the most iconic body style, though a convertible option offered an open-air driving experience for those who sought it.

Historical Significance

The Karmann Ghia's impact on automotive design is undeniable. It brought a level of aesthetic sophistication to a brand known for practicality. Its influence can be seen in later designs that sought to blend functionality with beauty. The car stood out not just for its looks but also for bridging the gap between affordable sports cars and high-end luxury coupes.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1963 Karmann Ghia was powered by an air-cooled flat-four engine that delivered modest performance figures. With a top speed hovering around 80 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph in about 18 seconds, it wasn't built for speed but rather for cruising enjoyment. The handling was characterized by a smooth ride quality that could absorb bumps gracefully while maintaining composure on winding roads. Drivers often speak fondly of the tactile feedback through the thin-rimmed steering wheel and the distinctive air-cooled engine note.

Ownership Experience

The Karmann Ghia served various roles from daily transportation to weekend showpiece or even as a base for vintage racing modifications. Its reliability was commendable with straightforward maintenance that endeared it to owners who appreciated simplicity over complexity.

Fun Facts

Did you know that less than 500 special edition "Type 34" models were produced with electric sunroofs? Or that celebrities such as Grace Kelly were known to drive a Karmann Ghia? While it never set speed records, it certainly won hearts worldwide and has been featured in numerous films and cultural events.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-preserved 1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000 depending on condition and originality. With approximately 445,000 units produced during its entire production run (1955-1974), they are relatively rare but still accessible for collectors. The value has been steadily appreciating as enthusiasts seek out these timeless classics.

Conclusion

The 1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia stands as an emblem of style over speed, sophistication over raw power. It encapsulates an era where elegance was equally as important as efficiency—a true classic that continues to captivate car enthusiasts around the globe.

1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Front Quarter Wedge Weatherseal for Convertibles-ALP 10Front Quarter Wedge Weatherseal for Convertibles. Used at back of roll-up quarter window. Pair R&L

1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Rear Door Wedge Weatherseal for convertibles-ALP 10-ARear Door Wedge Weatherseal for convertibles. Used behind back of roll-up quarter window. Pair R&L

1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Rear Quarter Wedge Weatherseal for Convertibles-ALP 10-BRear Quarter Wedge Weatherseal for Convertibles. Used at front of roll-up quarter window. Pair R&L

1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Front Door Wedge Weatherseal for Convertibles-ALP 10-CFront Door Wedge Weatherseal for Convertibles. Used at front of vent window assembly to door. Pair R&L

1963 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

1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Outside Quarter Window Seal (facing base)-MP 1501Outside Quarter Window Seal (facing base). 2-1/2" wide X 1-1/4" long. Pair R&L

1963 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

1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Auxillary Window Seal Kit for Convertibles (ALP 10, ALP 10-A-WK 400Auxillary Window Seal Kit for Convertibles (ALP 10, ALP 10-A, ALP 10-B, ALP 10-C) 8-Piece Kit

1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Front Vent Window Seals, for Convertibles-WR 9800Front Vent Window Seals, for Convertibles. Molded in proper shape. Pair