The VW Beetle was among the most versatile platforms in history, nd this bright 1974 Karmann-Ghia is a great opportunity to own an icon. Who would have thought that a graceful, pscale 2-seater would be born from the utilitarian, unctional Beetle? Yet here it is, nd if recent trends are any indicator, hese cars will lead the VW market into the future.The bottom line is that the Karmann-Ghia looks like a million bucks, don't care whose engine is powering it. The graceful lines, he muscular curved rear fenders, nd the slender pillars that make the roof almost look like it's floating are all masterstrokes of '60s design. This one has been freshened as needed, ith a repaint many years ago that's starting to show its age. The Gull Orange color is original to the car and one of the most archetypal selections used on the Karmann-Ghia. The sheetmetal is in good condition, ith decent gaps and a surprising feeling of solidity for a car in this price range. The slender chrome bumpers are in nice shape, nd all the unique trim pieces shine up well, aking this a car that still draws appreciative stares wherever it goes. And for the enterprising hobbyist, t's a chance to add a little sweat equity and add value at the same time.They also did a great job disguising the Beetle's interior appointments, nd the tan cloth and vinyl seats look upscale and comfortable. We believe the interior is original and there's a bit of wear, ut the good news is that replacements are inexpensive and easy to install, o you could add a lot of value with a Saturday afternoon project. The dash is lower than on a Beetle, eaturing two gauge pods housing the speedometer and clock. The carpets have probably been replaced at some point in the past, ncluding the rear deck area which adds storage space, ut we believe those are the original door panels, nd the headliner is in excellent condition. There's an updated AM/FM/CD stereo head unit in the dash and the forward trunk is correctly finished with mouse fur panels and a vintage bias-ply spare tire that may even be the original.Power comes from VW's erstwhile 1600 cc air-cooled flat four engine, nd the sound is instantly recognizable. Performance is good in the lightweight Karmann-Ghia coupe, nd it's refreshing to see an engine compartment that's almost entirely factory stock rather than hopped up with multiple carburetors and exotic exhaust systems. Look closely and you'll see details like the original air cleaner assembly, orrect ignition components, nd a factory generator mounted up top. Excellent maintenance means that everything is clean and tidy under the rear deck, nd VW's reputation for reliability is earned the old-fashioned way: by being reliable. The 4-speed transmission shifts about as well as a VW can, nd the brakes are firm and easy to modulate. Standard painted VW wheels with shiny hubcaps give it a sporty demeanor, nd thanks to its light weight and modest size, hose 195/60/15 radials deliver decent grip and a smooth ride.VW fans are rightly proud of the Karmann-Ghia, nd we see the market for these cars heating up. This one is very affordable and with a bit of effort, ould easily be taken to the next level. Call today!