Description
The VW Karmann Ghia Type 34, also known as the “Razor Edge Ghia,” is a classic car that was produced by Volkswagen from 1961 to 1969. Here’s a historical summary of the VW Karmann Ghia Type 34:
- Introduction: The VW Karmann Ghia Type 34 was introduced as a sporty coupe variant of the Volkswagen Type 3, which was a compact car produced by VW during the 1960s. The Type 34 featured a unique and distinctive design with sharp, angular lines, hence its nickname “Razor Edge Ghia.” It was designed by Italian coachbuilder Ghia and built by Karmann, a German coachbuilding company.
- Design and Features: The VW Karmann Ghia Type 34 featured a sleek and modern design with a low-slung body, sharp front end with quad headlights, and distinctive side profile with a fastback roofline. The design of the Type 34 was more angular and edgy compared to the curvaceous design of the earlier VW Karmann Ghia Type 14, which was based on the VW Beetle. The Type 34 also featured a more spacious interior with seating for four passengers and a range of standard and optional features for the era, including a radio, heater, and leather upholstery.
- Powertrain: The VW Karmann Ghia Type 34 was powered by a rear-mounted, air-cooled flat-four engine, similar to the one used in the VW Type 3. The engine had various displacements and power outputs throughout its production run, ranging from 1.5 to 1.6 liters, and 54 to 65 horsepower. Transmission options included a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic.
- Production and Market Reception: The VW Karmann Ghia Type 34 was produced from 1961 to 1969, with a total of approximately 42,505 units produced. It was not as popular as the earlier VW Karmann Ghia Type 14, which was based on the VW Beetle, and it was not officially sold in the United States. However, it gained a small following among collectors and enthusiasts for its unique design, sporty performance, and rarity.
- Legacy: The VW Karmann Ghia Type 34 is considered a rare and collectible classic car today. Its distinctive design, limited production numbers, and unique place in VW’s automotive history make it a sought-after model among collectors and enthusiasts. The Type 34 is often regarded as a symbol of Volkswagen’s innovative and daring approach to design in the 1960s, and it holds a special place in VW’s legacy as a unique and memorable model in the Karmann Ghia lineup.
In summary, the VW Karmann Ghia Type 34 was a sporty coupe variant of the VW Type 3, featuring a distinctive “Razor Edge” design, rear-mounted flat-four engine, and a more spacious interior compared to the earlier VW Karmann Ghia Type 14. It was produced from 1961 to 1969, had limited market success, but is now considered a rare and collectible classic car with a unique place in VW’s automotive history.
