1961 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia
Introduced in 1955, the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia represented a stylish alternative for drivers who appreciated VW reliability but wanted something more visually appealing than the Beetle. Hand-built at the Osnabrück coachworks, this elegant 2+2 coupe combined modified Beetle mechanicals with Italian-designed bodywork from Carrozzeria Ghia. The 1961 model featured a 1.2-liter air-cooled boxer engine producing 40 horsepower, paired with a 4-speed manual transmission.
Despite its modest power, the Karmann Ghia’s appeal lay in its graceful styling details (slim bumpers, small taillights, round side turn signals, and no rubber overriders).
Inside, the cabin balanced simplicity with refinement, featuring square-weave German carpeting and textured vinyl upholstery. A distinctive feature was the front trunk containing a spare wheel with its valve stem connected to power the windshield washer. Production continued until 1974, securing the Karmann Ghia’s place as one of Ghia’s most commercially successful designs.
Source
