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1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia
2dr Coupe
4-cyl. 1585cc/60hp 1bbl
#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good
$17,100*
+6.2%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
Apr 2025
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1956-1975 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia stats
Highest sale
$324,500
Lowest sale
$1,650
Most recent sale
$10,452
Sales
789
Photos
10 photosImages may not reflect selected vehicle.
Past sales
$18,123
1972 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
Europe
Mar 28, 2025Car and Classic
View details
$28,350
1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
Standard
North America
Mar 20, 2025Bring a Trailer
View details
$21,486
1970 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
96258 M
Standard
Europe
Mar 20, 2025Bonhams Cars Online
View details
$31,500
1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
13000 M
Standard
North America
Mar 19, 2025Bring a Trailer
View details
$33,499
1973 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
87342 M
Standard
Europe
Mar 11, 2025Collecting Cars
View details
$58,800
1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Base
97873 M
North America
Mar 8, 2025Broad Arrow Auctions
View details
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More 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia values
Model overview
Model description
The Volkswagen Karmann Ghia received its final engine update in 1971 – the twin-port 1585 cc flat-four, now producing 60 bhp. The compression ratio remained at 7.5:1, but the crankcase was stronger, the aluminum oil cooler more efficient and top speed now near 90 mph. A thermostat now controlled the engine air preheating system. Defroster outlets were larger and felt carpets were new.
The twin-port engine offered a useful increase in power and was accompanied by front disc and rear drum dual-circuit brakes as well as a 12-volt electrical system. The rear tread was wider and a sway bar included with softer rear springs. With two double-jointed constant velocity joints on each rear axle and trailing arms, the rear suspension eliminated the rear wheel “tuck under” problem with earlier cars when they were cornered hard. However, the Super Beetle’s McPherson strut front suspension never made it to Karmann Ghia models, which continued to have torsion bar suspension all round.
A 3-speed semi-automatic transmission (called Automatic Stick Shift) was still available for the 1971 Karmann Ghia Coupe and Convertible, but itit was never popular and quite a few cars were subsequently fitted with 4-speed manual gearboxes.
Coupe sales declined to 21,133 but Convertible production increased to 6565. Prices rose slightly again, with the 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Coupe costing $2575 and the Convertible $2750.
Exterior colors increased to 12 in number, with perhaps the best range available so far. They were Lemon Yellow, Amber, Blood Orange, Bahia Red, Black, Adriatic Blue, Irish Green, Willow Green, Light Ivory, Silver Metallic, Gemini Blue Metallic and Gold Metallic.
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Common Questions
The value of a 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $20,400 for a 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia in good condition with average spec.
The highest selling price of a 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia at auction over the last three years was $45,675. 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 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia at auction over the last three years was $4,450. 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 30 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghias sold at public auction.
The most recent auction sale of a 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia was $28,350 on March 20, 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.