1959 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Coupe – “Lowlight,” Rebuilt 1.2L Flat-Four, 4-Speed, Aero Silver, 17,400 Miles

Overview
Presented here is a beautifully restored 1959 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia coupe, one of the desirable early “Lowlight” cars. Showing 17,400 miles and three owners, it was comprehensively refurbished in 2020 and now blends period-correct charm with solid mechanical readiness.

Exterior
Finished in Aero Silver, the car has the clean, elegant look that makes early Karmann Ghias so appealing. The bodywork was completed before repainting, and the chrome bumpers were re-plated, seals replaced, and brightwork refreshed, giving the car a crisp, well-finished appearance that suits its vintage lines.

Engine & Performance
Power comes from a rebuilt air-cooled 1.2-liter flat-four, a simple and reliable engine that fits the Ghia’s lightweight character perfectly. The fuel system was overhauled, the wiring harness replaced, and the engine tins refinished, while the Solex 28 PICT carburetor was rebuilt recently to help ensure smooth and dependable running.

Chassis & Driving Dynamics
The four-speed manual transaxle was overhauled during the restoration and paired with a replacement clutch and cable for precise shifting. A rebuilt front axle beam, replaced steering linkage, and a full overhaul of the four-wheel drum brakes give the car a tighter, more confident feel on the road while preserving its original driving character.

Interior & Craftsmanship
Inside, the freshly reupholstered cabin features leatherette and cloth inserts with period-correct accents, bringing the interior back to its original elegance. Details like the two-spoke steering wheel with half horn ring, VDO instrumentation, passenger grab handle, and plush carpeting give the car the refined yet understated atmosphere that defines the Lowlight Ghia.

History & Documentation
This Karmann Ghia comes with supporting documentation, including a vehicle identity certificate and instruction manual, which adds confidence in its authenticity and history. With its careful refurbishment, rebuilt mechanicals, and strong visual presentation, it stands as an exceptionally restored example for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Key Information & Features

• Model: 1959 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Coupe (“Lowlight”)

• Engine: Rebuilt 1.2L air-cooled flat-four

• Transmission: Overhauled four-speed manual transaxle

• Drive: Rear-wheel drive

• Mileage: 17,400 miles

• Owners: 3

• Exterior Color: Aero Silver

• Interior: Freshly reupholstered leatherette and cloth with period-correct accents

• Restoration: Comprehensive refurbishment completed in 2020

• Mechanical Updates: Rebuilt front axle beam, replaced steering linkage, overhauled drum brakes, rebuilt fuel system, replaced wiring harness, refinished engine tins, rebuilt Solex 28 PICT carburetor

• Wheels/Tires: White steel wheels, bright hubcaps, whitewall tires

• Documentation: Vehicle identity certificate and instruction manual

• Fuel Type: Gasoline

• Condition: Used, highly restored, mechanically sorted, show-ready

A beautifully executed early Karmann Ghia like this offers the perfect mix of style, rarity, and usability—an elegant Lowlight coupe that feels as special today as it did when new.