The Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Type 34 was created as a larger and more modern sequel to the Type 14.
What was the plan?
When a car manufacturer develops a new car model with the same name as an existing one, it is likely to be a successor. The first model, referred to internally as the Type 14, was based on the Volkswagen Type 1 – Beetle. The new model, the Type 34, was based on the Type 3 – the model that became known as Volkswagen 1500 or “notchback”. What was Volkswagen’s plan? Did they want to keep two sporty models? – One based on the Type1 and one based on the Type3. Or was the plan for the Type 34 to replace the Type 1? Because it was in the cards that the more modern and contemporary Type 3 would eventually take over from the Type 1. That never happened.
Bigger, stronger and more modern
The Karmann Ghia Type 34 was 14 cm longer than the Type 14 and 1 cm narrower. The wheelbase was unchanged. A higher glass body gave a more spacious feeling, but the space conditions were in reality quite similar. Both Karmann Ghia models were designed by Ghia. The Type 14 was characterized by 1950s lines, while the Type 34 had a more square-cut 60s feel. When it came on the market in 1962, it was with a 1500 engine while the Type 14 at the same time had 1200 engines. So the big Karmann Ghia was both stronger and more modern.
Model history
The model was released as a 1962 model. The following year it got dual carburetors and more horsepower, and in 1964 it got a new front axle that gave better stability and a new interior. In 1965 it got Volkswagen's 1600 engine and thus its official name was changed to Volkswagen 1600 L Coupe. In 1966 the electrical system was upgraded to 12 Volt. In 1967 the cars received disc brakes at the front and in 1968 new rear suspension and hazard warning lights. Production ended in 1969. Production of the original Karmann Ghia, Type 14, continued until 1974. (Source: Volkswagen).
About the pictures
The red car in the main image participated in a vehicle exhibition in Gunnarsbøparken, Tønsberg 2024. The white car participated in a car show in Perpignan, France 2024. The image of the interior is a press photo – source FavCars.com.
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