10k: Tesla Seats: 1972 Karmann Ghia Convertible Type 14

The Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia  was built as a 2+2 coupe and convertible from 1955 to 1974.  The mechanical components were borrowed from the Type 1 Beetle with styling by Luigi Segre of carrozzeria Ghia and coach-built bodywork from Karmann.  Today’s Karmann Ghia features a de-bumpered look, a bigger engine and a set of Tesla jump seats in the rear.  Find this 1972 Karmann Ghia Convertible Type 14 offered for $9,000 in Palo Alto, CA via craigslist.  Tip from Kaibeezy.

Although it was designed to look sportier, the Karmann Ghia is often criticized for being a heavier and slower version of the Beetle.  This one makes up for that with a bigger engine and a decent cosmetic makeover.  It looks good without the bumpers and the steel wheels with chrome hubcaps look good.

The part of this Ghia that really sticks out has the be the builders use of a Tesla Model S rear facing jump seat as the rear seat.  The Tesla’s rear facing jump seats are designed strictly for kid use, feature integral 5-point harness, cup holders, and folds flat for storage.  What kid wouldn’t want to ride in the back of this thing??

Behind the Tesla seats is a VW transaxle and then a 1915 cc mildly built engine that should be good for a lot more than the stock power & torque, but is not disclosed by the seller, although he does add that the original 1600cc engine is part of the deal.  The seller also fails to disclose where the loosely recovered seats and steering wheel came from as they are apparently from an older VW.  The fit of the seat covers suggesting that the cushions have not been rebuilt.  VW’s traditionally have very high quality tops, but the one picture showing the top in the raised position suggests that this might be a discount version.

 See a better poor man’s 356?  tips@dailyturismo.com