Some classic cars represent a collaborative effort by several companies, which is true of the 1967 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. It utilized the underpinnings and drivetrain of a Beetle with a body designed by Carrozzeria Ghia and assembled by coachbuilders Karmann. It was the most sporting vehicle to carry VW badges to that point, and sales far exceeded the company’s initial expectations. This Karmann is a black-plate survivor that the seller admits is a stalled project. They accept they will never be able to return it to its former glory and are seeking someone who can. Therefore, it is listed here on Craigslist in Patterson, California. They set their price at $10,000 but are willing to entertain offers. Barn Finder Gunter K has once again struck gold with this classic, so thank you so much for that, Gunter.

While the Volkswagen Beetle ensured its place in automotive history as an affordable car for every person, the Karmann-Ghia brought exclusivity at a price. Hand-assembled using complicated production techniques, the Karmann was significantly more expensive than the car upon which it was based. Therefore, it should have been a sales disaster. The opposite proved true, with a final total far exceeding Volkswagen’s wildest dreams. This car features Velour Red paint with a Black vinyl top. The paint shows its age, although it remains presentable for anyone considering preservation over restoration. The best news is that spending its life in California means the car is essentially rust-free. The floors are rock-solid, with no visible external problems. The panels are straight, although what appears to be Bondo in the passenger-side rear quarter panel might indicate prior accident damage. The glass looks excellent, and the trim is acceptable for a driver-grade vehicle of this vintage.

If a buyer in 1967 ordered their new Karmann-Ghia wearing Velour Red paint, interior trim choices were limited to Platinum “dogtooth” cloth or leatherette in Light Sand or Black. The original owner selected the last option, and it presents nicely fifty-five years later. There is no evidence of wear or other problems, but issues elsewhere require attention. The carpet is faded in several spots, but a lack of wear means replacement might not be a priority. The passenger door pocket sags, but careful work with elastic would fix that for mere pennies. However, the cracked dash and glove compartment door could prove the “big ticket” items. If the new owner isn’t concerned about authenticity, reproduction fascias and doors retail as a set for under $200. Otherwise, they may need to scour online auction sites for genuine items that command a premium price. We receive no engine photos, but this VW should feature an air-cooled 1,493cc flat-four engine sending 53hp to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transaxle. Although performance wouldn’t match many sporting models, this classic should cruise all day at freeway speeds while returning fuel consumption of around 35mpg. The seller claims they are the Karmann’s second owner and that it is original. They don’t indicate whether it runs or drives, but the bulletproof Volkswagen drivetrain means any potential problems should be cheap and easy to address.

When Volkswagen removed the covers from the Karmann-Ghia in 1955, it probably never envisaged the public’s reaction. It planned a limited run, but the car remained in production from 1955 until 1974. When it ceased, an incredible 445,238 vehicles were plying the world’s roads. Brazilian production added a further 41,689 cars to the tally, cementing this classic as a sales success. Today, they enjoy a strong following that sees pristine examples regularly changing hands for more than $35,000. Our feature car isn’t perfect, but it represents a sound foundation for a potential buyer with that goal in mind. Have you ever owned one of these little gems? If so, would you consider a repeat performance by negotiating with this seller?