Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Type 14 1.3 (50 Hp)


Overall Rating

6.7 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 2.0 / 5
Value 4.5 / 5
Performance 2.0 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Volkswagen Karmann Ghia:

The Volkswagen Karmann Ghia are a family of three overlapping sports car models produced by Volkswagen, marketed in 2+2 coupe and 2+2 convertible body styles, though German production ended one year before that in Brazil. Internally designated the Type 14 , the Type 34 , and the Type 145 TC , the Karmann Ghia cars combined the floorpans and mechanicals of the Type 1 / Beetle or Type 3 'ponton' models with styling by Italy's Carrozzeria Ghia, and hand-built bodywork by German coachbuilding house Karmann....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Type 14 Overview:

Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14). Weighing only 830 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. The top speed reaches 128 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

1.3 (50 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Offering a good balance, the 50 Hp 1.3L engine provides nearly the performance of the 1.5L with a slightly more rev-happy character, making it enjoyable.

Fuel Economy

With 8 l/100 km, this engine strikes a good balance between power and fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for its performance level.

Best Use Case: Mixed Driving

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Timeless and elegant styling that stands out
  • • Reliable and simple air-cooled engine mechanics (Beetle-derived)
  • • Strong collector's market and appreciation in value
  • • Easy to maintain and find parts for (due to Beetle commonality)
  • • Enjoyable driving experience for leisurely cruises

Cons:

  • • Very modest performance by modern standards, even with larger engines
  • • Lack of modern safety features (no airbags, ABS, etc.)
  • • Limited interior space, especially for rear passengers
  • • Can be prone to rust if not properly cared for
  • • Original heating system can be inadequate in cold climates

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Volkswagen
Model:Karmann Ghia
Generation:Type 14
Modification (Engine):1.3 (50 Hp)
Start of production:1963
End of production:1974
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Coupe
Seats:4
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:50 Hp @ 4600 rpm.
Power per litre:38.9 Hp/l
Engine displacement:1285
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:180° flat V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Carburettor
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:OHV
Engine oil capacity:2.5 l
Engine layout:Rear, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:77 mm mm
Piston Stroke:69 mm mm
Compression ratio:7.3:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:8 l/100 km
Maximum speed:128 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:16.6 kg/Hp, 60.2 Hp/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:830
Max. weight:1160
Max load:330
Fuel tank capacity:40 l
Size:
Length:4140 mm mm
Width:1634 mm mm
Height:1330 mm mm
Wheelbase:2400 mm mm
Front track:1305 mm
Rear (Back) track:1300 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.25 m
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears4
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesDisc
Rear brakesDrum
Steering typeWorm-reduction unit
Wheel rims size4J x 15
Front suspensionTransverse stabilizer, Torsion
Rear suspensionTorsion

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