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1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia
2dr Coupe
4-cyl. 1585cc/46hp 1bbl
#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good
$16,600*
+7.1%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
Jan 2025
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1956-1975 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia stats
Highest sale
$324,500
Lowest sale
$1,650
Most recent sale
$8,715
Sales
779
Photos
6 photosImages may not reflect selected vehicle.
Past sales
$8,715
1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
71000 M
Automatic
North America
Mar 3, 2025Bring a Trailer
View details
$25,462
1973 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
86000 M
Standard
North America
Feb 26, 2025Bring a Trailer
View details
$7,300
1970 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
Standard
North America
Feb 20, 2025GAA Classic Cars
View details
$11,812
1969 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
2000 M
Standard
North America
Feb 20, 2025Bring a Trailer
View details
$16,012
1963 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
63000 M
Standard
North America
Feb 10, 2025Bring a Trailer
View details
$6,300
1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
73000 M
Standard
North America
Jan 22, 2025Bring a Trailer
View details
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More 1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia values
Model overview
Model description
This year 1974 saw the end of a number of models in the U.S. market, both domestic and imported. Some cars simply could not be modified to meet stricter crash tests, while incoming regulations for unleaded gas, presented requirement for catalytic converts to be fitted in 1975. The 1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia was one of them.
Production began in August 1973 and ended in Europe in December that year. U.S. cars continued to be delivered until June 1974 but some records indicate no Convertibles were produced, so it’s possible those sold in the U.S. were leftover 1973 models.
In any event the last year Karmann Ghia total is listed at 7167 Coupes, and any Convertibles could have been part of the 2555 total built the previous year. The Coupe cost $3475 and the Convertible $3935.
The 1974 Coupe advertised 14 cubic feet of storage space behind the front seat, basically where the rear seat had been. The energy-absorbing rear bumper was extended to meet the new 2.5 mph collision requirement and the front bumper met the 5 mph regulation. Front disc brakes had floating calipers and larger brake pads. Inertia reel seatbelts were now interlocked with the ignition so the car could not be started until they were clicked in place – an idea that lasted exactly one year.
Karmann Ghia models utilized the final version of their air-cooled engine, the twin-port 1585 cc flat-four, producing 46 net bhp. Numerous options were available at extra cost, including air-conditioning, AM/FM stereo, wood steering wheel and shift knob, rubber mats, racing stripes and even a tissue dispenser.
When the dust settled, what had original been seen as a slim luxury segment of the Volkswagen Beetle market had been a huge success. It was proof that people would pay for elegance and quality construction, even with modest performance.
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Common Questions
The value of a 1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $18,000 for a 1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia in good condition with average spec.
The highest selling price of a 1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia at auction over the last three years was $56,000. The highest prices are usually reserved for rare or exceptionally well-maintained examples with desirable features or modifications and excellent history.
The lowest selling price of a 1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia at auction over the last three years was $4,480. The lowest prices are usually paid for examples that have extensive maintenance needs, differ greatly from their original configuration, or have accident histories or title problems.
In the last three years there have been 28 1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghias sold at public auction.
The most recent auction sale of a 1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia was $8,715 on March 03, 2025 by Bring a Trailer.
Many factors can increase a car's value including excellent condition, exceptional originality, a recent restoration, low mileage, unique provenance, desirable options, popular or unique color choices, and excellent maintenance records. Upgrades and modifications that enhance performance or aesthetics can also add value.
Factors that can decrease a car's value include unusually high mileage, poor maintenance history, visible wear and tear, accidents or damage, title issues, and gaps in ownership history. Additionally, less popular color choices and extensive modifications that don't appeal to a broad audience can reduce value.
Mileage plays a significant role in a classic car’s value. Lower mileage usually increases value because it indicates a higher degree of originality, is rarer, and suggests less wear and tear. However, cars with exceptionally low mileage may also have maintenance needs due to lack of use. Whether someone should pay more for a vehicle with lower miles will depend on how they plan on using it, and the vehicle's specific condition.
The value of modified cars differs widely based on the type and quality of modifications. While some modifications can significantly increase value, especially performance enhancements and high-quality custom work, others may not add much or could even detract from the car’s value if they appeal to only a limited audience.