12th Nov, 2023 12:00
The Bolesworth Castle November 2023 Classic & Performance Car Auction
1958 VW Karmann Ghia
Registration - 618 XUS
Chassis No - JT153JSE700061149
M.O.T - March 2024
Odometer - TBC
This delightful early lefthand drive Ghia came off line on December 4 1958 and was first registered in Lebanon 11 days later. By 2009 it had found its way to Finland, which is where it was purchased by the vendor and then imported to the UK a year later. Following a period of dry storage between 2019 and early this year, it was recommissioned by Karmann Ghia specialists Californian Classics of St. Leonards, East Sussex. The work included: the installation of a new starter motor, Codan R9 ethanol-proof fuel lines, battery, plugs, coil, HT leads and wheel cylinders etc; a full engine and brake service; carburettor rebuild; plus the cleaning and relining of the fuel tank. The corrosion-free body was resprayed in its original livery of black over Brillant Red, and the bumpers refurbished as required to retain their original ‘ram protection’ bars. Apparently, the front of the car has been rebuilt with non-original parts at some time. The vendor has not seen the need restore the area, but informs us that correct replacement items are still available. We understand that the interior was both tired and incomplete, so was largely retrimmed with the correct material by respected trimmers C A Upton of St Leonards. The original steering wheel and handbrake lever were restored. The vendor now classes the later (1968) 1200cc engine as ‘excellent’, and the four-speed manual gearbox, coupe bodywork, two-tone paintwork and beige and black upholstery as ‘good’.
Particularly aimed at the American market, the immortally striking Karmann Ghia 2+2 was Volkswagen’s answer to creating a halo model for its unashamedly austere Beetle range. Available in both coupe and convertible guise, it was styled by Luigi Segre of Carrozzeria Ghia and hand-built around Beetle mechanicals by the famed German coachbuilder Karmann of Osnabrück – hence the name. German production ran from 1955 to 1974, during which 445,238 examples were built, of which 364,401 were coupes like the sales car, and 80,837 were cabriolets. A further 41,689 were constructed in Brazil between 1962 and 1975.
In summary:
- A well-presented early lefthand drive example
- The subject of much sympathetic restoration
- Has benefited from the low humidity climates of Lebanon and Finland
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 15% + VAT (minimum £100 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
Potential buyers should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each lot prior to sale. Each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per the terms and conditions for the auction, buyers are asked to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out the service. Any disputes over descriptions will not be entertained.
Sold for £10,583
(Inclusive of Buyer's Premium)
Registration - 618 XUS
Chassis No - JT153JSE700061149
M.O.T - March 2024
Odometer - TBC
This delightful early lefthand drive Ghia came off line on December 4 1958 and was first registered in Lebanon 11 days later. By 2009 it had found its way to Finland, which is where it was purchased by the vendor and then imported to the UK a year later. Following a period of dry storage between 2019 and early this year, it was recommissioned by Karmann Ghia specialists Californian Classics of St. Leonards, East Sussex. The work included: the installation of a new starter motor, Codan R9 ethanol-proof fuel lines, battery, plugs, coil, HT leads and wheel cylinders etc; a full engine and brake service; carburettor rebuild; plus the cleaning and relining of the fuel tank. The corrosion-free body was resprayed in its original livery of black over Brillant Red, and the bumpers refurbished as required to retain their original ‘ram protection’ bars. Apparently, the front of the car has been rebuilt with non-original parts at some time. The vendor has not seen the need restore the area, but informs us that correct replacement items are still available. We understand that the interior was both tired and incomplete, so was largely retrimmed with the correct material by respected trimmers C A Upton of St Leonards. The original steering wheel and handbrake lever were restored. The vendor now classes the later (1968) 1200cc engine as ‘excellent’, and the four-speed manual gearbox, coupe bodywork, two-tone paintwork and beige and black upholstery as ‘good’.
Particularly aimed at the American market, the immortally striking Karmann Ghia 2+2 was Volkswagen’s answer to creating a halo model for its unashamedly austere Beetle range. Available in both coupe and convertible guise, it was styled by Luigi Segre of Carrozzeria Ghia and hand-built around Beetle mechanicals by the famed German coachbuilder Karmann of Osnabrück – hence the name. German production ran from 1955 to 1974, during which 445,238 examples were built, of which 364,401 were coupes like the sales car, and 80,837 were cabriolets. A further 41,689 were constructed in Brazil between 1962 and 1975.
In summary:
- A well-presented early lefthand drive example
- The subject of much sympathetic restoration
- Has benefited from the low humidity climates of Lebanon and Finland
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 15% + VAT (minimum £100 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
Potential buyers should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each lot prior to sale. Each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per the terms and conditions for the auction, buyers are asked to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out the service. Any disputes over descriptions will not be entertained.
Auction: The Bolesworth Castle November 2023 Classic & Performance Car Auction, 12th Nov, 2023
Our November auction of classic and performance cars
Viewing Days:
Saturday 11th November,12 noon - 6pm
Sunday 12th November, 9am - 12 noon
If you wish to consign your vehicle to this auction, you can request a valuation here or by calling one of the Hampson Auctions team on 01606 828124
Fill in the form below and one of our team will get in touch with a no-obligation valuation. We will also take you through the consignment and valuation process, to enable you to make an informed decision.
If you prefer to contact us directly please call 01606 828 124 or email info@hampsonauctions.com
