The retro phase in automotive design gathered strength in the 1990s following the introduction of the PT Cruiser and Prowler. Our feature car continues that theme, combining old-world charm with modern engineering. The Karmann Ghia panels gracing this classic hide the underpinnings of a 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK 320. It should provide a relatively relaxed driving experience and is guaranteed to turn heads wherever it goes. Its next journey could be to a new home, with the seller listing this classic here on eBay in Southlake, Texas. Bidding sits beyond the reserve at $3,800 as the auction heads into its closing stages.
This classic makes a positive first impression, with the builder integrating items like the Mercedes grille into the Karmann Ghia body to provide engine cooling. The seller emphasizes that the car isn’t perfect, with the paint sporting a few chips and scratches. That is the tip of the iceberg because the winning bidder faces a lot of tasks before the project can be considered finished to a high standard. They admit that there are no seals between the body and the floor pan, meaning that moisture can find its way inside this car. It would take an in-person inspection to confirm what is required to address the shortcoming, and the reality is that it could be an easy or complicated undertaking to make the vehicle weatherproof. There are also squeaks and rattles due to the lack of weatherstripping around areas like the doors. Those are the most pressing needs, but it is worth noting that the Karmann/Mercedes runs and drives. That might allow the buyer to enjoy the vehicle during the coming dry months, tackling the work as a winter project.
Below the skin is pure Mercedes-Benz technology, with this build based on a 2001 SLK 320. That means the engine bay houses a 3.2-liter V6 producing 215hp and 230 ft/lbs of torque. A five-speed automatic tackles shifting duties, while power-assisted steering and four-wheel disc brakes lighten the driver’s load. The tighter engine bay as a result of the body change means the battery now resides in the trunk, and the seller identifies a few issues like a potential minor oil leak and a few warning lights that remain illuminated. However, they state that the car runs and drives, although it is unclear whether it is genuinely roadworthy. It would be worth reaching out to the seller before placing a bid to gain clarity on that question.
The interior carries no Karmann touches, with items like the trim and dash pure Mercedes-Benz fare. The buyer receives Black leather trim, air conditioning, cruise control, timber trim, airbags, and a few other creature comforts that Karmann Ghia buyers never experienced. The seller states that the A/C blows cold, but that the interior needs a headliner. The carpet is stained, and there is minor wear on the leather and some exposed surfaces. However, with new carpet, a headliner, and attention from a leather specialist, it should present acceptably as a driver-grade vehicle.
I have always admired custom builds because they invariably demonstrate the lateral thinking that abounds in the classic world. This Karman Ghia/Mercedes-Benz hybrid is a perfect example of that concept, and with the hard work seemingly complete, the winning bidder could complete the build as time and circumstances allow. Is this a project you would consider tackling? If the bidding doesn’t intensify during the final hours, the price may make it irresistible. Therefore, it might be worth the effort to monitor the auction, because there’s a chance it could find its way into your workshop.
I’m really impressed with this build. When I first saw this I was like when did Mercedes make this model? How much did they have to cut into the unibody though?
There is something sacrilegious about combining a humble Karmann Ghia and a Mercedes; it’s kind of like marrying someone from the wrong side of the tracks. I respect the builder’s vision, but if I want an SLK with a funky body, I’ll buy a Chrysler Crossfire.
Imagine if it had a ’57 corvette grill AND the big MB badge. lol
Saw this on the internet when it was being built and was totally impressed at the level of bodywork that went into it. I think it looks very neat and the styling nicely integrates the Merc front end with the Karman Ghia body. If it appeals to you then the price is a steal. The amount of work that it took to bring it this far was massive and you’re getting that for almost free.
do you have a link to the build?
I suppose the love it hate it is going to be all over this one. I like it a lot as the Karmann Giha is a perennial favorite. Marrying it to an SLK chassis is not the worst thing that could have happened. They could have gone EV.
Wow, the best of both worlds.
No one can deny the sleek aerodynamic style of the gia, put it on top of a Mercedes, brilliant.
Why are these cool ones always so far from me!!
Why?! It looks like a Camaro-inspired front end.
This just appeared on another auction site and was reportedly sold on Jan 15. For sale again so soon? Too much work to finish? Or did the sale fall through? I think it looks great with a couple of small exceptions, the excessive fender flaring and the grille is too sharp-cornered, out of sync with the curvy Ghia design.
You are right the grille is a bit square edged but that can be fixed pretty easily. The flares could be better integrated but some form of bulge is going to be required to get narrow old style body over a modern chassis. I don’t mind it too much. It might be very hard to do a more integrated flare and not make the body look like someone overinflated it. I do think the rear flares could have been just a bigger bulge of the existing rear body bulge, but that’s also a lot more work and basically new rear quarter panes The existing flares might be best solution in the end for the front end..
I see your reference here (not the giha or slk) jay dubu, & agree~
I like it alot. If one thinks the hard part is done they’ll
get sucked into reality when “…it could find its way into your workshop….”
The details (like those left here) are all ways the hard part to me. Y many
projects get stalled/sold in process. The gross/grunt wrk is (almost done here)
so 1 is tired, but that’s just half way (in $ & energy required). Fickle nature of the mechanic = one must have interest (intrinsic or even extrinsic) motivation. Seeing THIS , now – I think I’d have the interest to keep goin. I saw a uTube or some vid w/same make model. They really pumped up the oe drive-train (& more). Guy reviewing didnt know how to drive it or relate to it. But it was still a ‘performing beauty’ (as the best ‘sports cars’ are).
Sold for $14K on cars and bids in January
https://carsandbids.com/auctions/9QBnvVBD/2001-mercedes-benz-slk320
That doesn’t make any sense at all. This thing sold on E Bay for $8600 after it sold for $14,000 on carsandbids two months ago. Why in the world would someone be willing to take a $2,400 bath on this sale? What could this car have possibly done to tick someone off that much?
Misprint, should say “$6,400” bath, which makes it even crazier.
I know I am crazy but I love this car and would love to try and take it to the next level. It would be fun to drive and have all the tire kickers trying to figure it out. I also am smart enough to know that it may be way over the level of my pocket book and expertise.
We had a Crossfire and it was a beast. I love this build, I’ve loved Mercedes for decades and even owned one, a 1987 420 SEL. That boat could flat out fly. Rode like a pillow on air. Great car kinda wish I still had it.
Not my choice but impressive build and design mix.
I am going to come right out and admit that I am impressed with this little cutie. While I think the work needed to complete it is substantial, I believe the end result would be beyond cool. Somebody has put a ton of work, not to mention ingenuity into this thing so far and I think that it would be a shame if it doesn’t get taken across the finish line. I’m too old to take something like this on but I certainly wish I weren’t.
Not sold on the lower front grille opening, agree on the need to better integrate the rear fender flares, maybe more 427 Cobra style. What would make the conversion for me is to lose the Ghia taillights and do up a variant on the late ’50s MBenz 190SL, taller, but still an obvious nod to that look.
I see a LOT of Volvo P1800 in these lines.
Awesome accomplishment, very smooth blending.
As a past owner of several Karman Ghias in the past, I do get this. It’s all German and cool. I’ve always wanted to build another KG with a 911 drivetrain so this makes sense to me.
Congratulations to the owner/builder, and best wishes with the sale. I only with it was me with it. It’d be no longer ever for sale!
Halten Sie hier mein Bier.
SOLD for $8,600.