Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, Orange, for sale in Charlotte, North Carolina, for $16,995.

The VW Beetle was among the most versatile platforms in history, and this lovely 1974 Karmann-Ghia is an excellent example. Who would have thought that a graceful, upscale 2-seater would be born from the utilitarian, functional Beetle? Yet here it is, and if recent trends are any indicator, these cars will lead the VW market into the future.

The bottom line is that the Karmann-Ghia looks like a million bucks, I don't care whose engine is powering it. The graceful lines, the muscular curved rear fenders, and the slender pillars that make the roof almost look like it's floating are all masterstrokes of '60s design. This one offers a thick binder full of restoration receipts that back up its impressive condition inside and out. The Gull Orange color is original to the car and one of the most archetypal selections used on the Karmann-Ghia. There's no sign of rust, either, one of the biggest issues with these cars. The bodywork is straight and well prepped, the paint is deep and lustrous, and all the panels line up well. The slender chrome bumpers are beautifully finished, and all the unique trim pieces shine up well.

They also did a great job disguising the Beetle's interior appointments, and the brown vinyl seats do a pretty good impersonation of leather at first glance. The dash is lower than on a Beetle, featuring two gauge pods housing the speedometer and clock. Recent carpets, including the rear deck area which adds storage space, new door panels, and a taut headliner are all part of this first-class interior. There's an updated AM/FM/cassette stereo head unit in the dash that feeds a pair of 6x9 speakers in the rear deck, and one look under the front-mounted trunk lid will convince you that this is one clean Karmann. And yes, the 74,913 miles shown on the odometer is correct, making this a low-mileage gem that has been cherished all its life.

Power comes from VW's erstwhile 1600 cc air-cooled flat four engine, and the sound is instantly recognizable. Performance is good in the lightweight Karmann-Ghia coupe, and 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, correct ignition components, and a factory generator mounted up top. Excellent maintenance means that everything is clean and tidy under the rear deck, and again there's absolutely no sign of rust in any of the usual locations. The 4-speed transmission shifts well, and the brakes are firm and easy to modulate. Chrome VW wheels with matching hubcaps give it a sporty demeanor, and thanks to its light weight and modest size, those 195/60/15 radials deliver impressive grip and a smooth ride.

Full documentation on the restoration and service work performed over the years is included. VW fans are rightly proud of the Karmann-Ghia, and this is one of the better examples we've seen. Call today!