1959 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia

Volkswagen’s Karmann Ghia, a collaborative effort between the German coachbuilder Karmann GmbH and Italy’s Carrozzeria Ghia, was based upon a Volkswagen Beetle but clothed in sporting Ghia coachwork. The car on offer is a very desirable early production example, referred to as a “low-light” model by Volkswagen connoisseurs for the positioning of its headlamps.

Further distinguishing this Karmann Ghia is the fitment of a very rare Denzel engine. Wolfgang Denzel was a racer and engineer who produced engines utilizing VW crankcases but featuring his own crankshaft, camshaft, and dual-port cylinder heads. Denzel used these engines to power an eponymous car he designed, competing successfully in period and most notably winning the 1954 Alpine Rally.

This example, once a part of the famed Mac Jones Volkswagen Collection, sports a gorgeous two-tone livery of red with a black roof, along with black vinyl seats fitted with red cloth inserts. The consignor reports it received a thorough body-off restoration and its rare accessories include a trip odometer, Blaupunkt radio, decorative wheel trim rings, and whitewall tires. Knecht air cleaners and a four-tip exhaust add to its sporting flair, and included with the sale are an owner’s manual, jack, Denzel literature, and tool roll.

Finding any low-light Karmann Ghia in good condition is difficult, but the fact that this example is also equipped with a fascinating Denzel engine and rare accessories makes it a truly special piece worthy of close inspection.