1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia “Lowlight” Coupe

Preview: Monday, October 6th 11:00 am - 1:00 pm  2425 NE 38th St, Kansas City, MO 64116

Titled items (such as cars, trailers, boats, etc.) must be paid by cash, cashier’s check, or wire transfer. Please note: titles will be held for 10 days, regardless of the purchase amount.

This 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Coupe represents one of the most sought-after versions of Volkswagen’s iconic coachbuilt sports car — the early “lowlight” models, produced only from 1955 to 1959. With its low-mounted headlights, slim bumpers, and elegant proportions, the lowlight Ghia is considered by many enthusiasts to be the purest and most beautiful iteration of the design.

Early Production Provenance

This car carries chassis number 1488954 with Karmann body number 16686, confirming it as a 1957 model built in late 1956. The accompanying body and chassis plates remain intact, an important detail for collectors who value originality and documented early production.

Exterior Highlights

• Distinctive low-mounted headlights and grille vents, exclusive to early Ghias.
   

• Original thin Euro-style bumpers with overriders (front bumper included but currently detached).
   

• Correct small taillights, another hallmark of early production models.
   

• Straight body lines with no major nose damage — critical given the difficulty of sourcing replacement panels.
   

Engine & Mechanical

• Equipped with a 36hp Volkswagen flat-four engine, correct for the model year.
   

• Engine compartment remains period-appropriate, featuring original-style air cleaner, Bosch components, and proper layout.
   

• Even as a restoration candidate, having the proper early-style engine is a major advantage for authenticity.
   

Interior Details

• Retains much of its original upholstery and trim, including the striped rear seat fabric and door panels.
   

• Correct lowlight dash layout with ivory-colored knobs and early gauges.
   

• Period Motorola Volumatic AM radio adds authentic 1950s character.
   

• Early long-style gear lever still in place.
   

Why Collectors Care

Early Karmann Ghias have become increasingly sought after due to their hand-built quality, timeless styling, and limited production numbers compared to later models. Survivors like this — complete, largely original, and ready for restoration — are rarely available. The presence of its correct early features and factory body/chassis plates make this a strong candidate for a collector restoration.

The winning bidder will need to have this towed from the property.