We normally shy away from modified vehicles, but every once in a while, we run across something that actually has character and deserves a mention. The seller of this 1970 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia claims that it has some “California surf mods”. Well, the car has lived in Tuscon, Arizona, for a long time, so I’m not sure if that’s the right name for them. Either way, the tweaks done here make this interesting car even more so. Take a look and let us know what you think.
The Karmann Ghia was basically a Beetle in a fancy suit. That means we are looking at the same air-cooled flat-four that powered this car’s slow-moving brother. The odometer shows 47k miles, and the seller states that it could be original, rolled over, or who knows. Mechanical upgrades here include an electric fuel pump and drop spindles. The possibilities are limitless here, but I would stick with OEM parts. Aftermarket carbs, distributors, fuel pumps, etc., never work as well as the originals, and that’s coming from personal experience.
This shot shows the custom dash treatment, EMPI shifter, skateboard wheel pedal, and 8-Track player. There’s even a box of 8-Tracks included for your listening pleasure! The seller mentions receipts for a $3,500 engine rebuild but doesn’t give a date for the work. Engines and parts are easy to get for these so I would be more concerned with the condition of the body. The seller mentions some areas of concern but states that it’s mostly solid.
The Moon disc wheel covers and sticker collection on the trunk round out our “Surf Mods”. The look may not be for everyone but if you dig it, you better hurry because the no reserve auction is ending soon here on eBay! Apparently, this VW has been a fixture around the Tuscon area. Have you ever seen it? And what do you think of the “upgrades”?
Good upgrades except for the trunk. These are good looking cars and the trunk just doesn’t fit with it. I like the electric pump because I have never been a fan of pumps mounted over exhaust systems. Have seen a few toasty cars lit up that way. I like it.
Not working for me.
Wow the dash board is rusted out compared to the rest of the car!
I think that’s faux woodgrain!
I see some rust holes by the battery, and rust around the engine area ..?! A complete inspection of this underside is important
I have had a few VWs including 2 Karmann Ghias. The Ghia’s body style and seating position make it more fun for driving and even comfortable for long distances.
However I disagree with the comment that OEM is preferable to aftermarket. There are tons of aftermarket items, some useful and some not so vetting those choices can improve the car. For example, the centrifugal advance distributor on this car was a solid improvement for every VW that I had installed one on,9 and some aftermarket exhaust systems can improve performance. Cooling air mod’s to improve #3 cylinder flow can help engine long term life.
I love VOLKSWAGONS( type1-square backs -fast backs-notchbacks) I am not sold on the dashboard. The moons could stay until Empi wheels could be found. The stickers on the trunk would find their way to the trash! I live in the middle of NOWHERE USA ,( 45 miles Northwest of Kansas City Missouri )but there is a mechanic shop off the highway that specializes in Volkswagen, Porsche, BMW, Fiat and Alpha’s
There is a body shop here in Kansas City that I trust the car would go to visit him. Any and all body work would be done and then a good wet sand and polish.