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- 1957 Karmann Ghia (Type 14) Convertible
Volkswagen1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14) Convertible Dimensions, Size & Specs| Production | |
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| Model Year: | 1957 |
The 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Type 14 Convertible is a classic cabriolet that embodies vintage charm combined with compact design. As a convertible variant of the Type 14, the Karmann Ghia was known for its elegant, rounded lines and timeless Italian-styled body, crafted by the Italian design firm, Ghia, and hand-built by Karmann. Produced during the 1950s, the convertible kept most of its coupe counterpart’s characteristics but added the allure of open-air driving.
The Type 14 Convertible was smaller and lighter than many contemporaries, featuring a relatively low profile and a length typically around 4,070 mm (160.2 inches), width near 1,610 mm (63.4 inches), and height roughly 1,350 mm (53.1 inches), depending on specific model configurations. Its compact size made it nimble and easy to maneuver, ideal for both urban environments and scenic drives. The vehicle’s lightweight body, combined with the rear-mounted air-cooled flat-four engine inherited from the Volkswagen Beetle, offered a modest yet reliable performance.
Inside, the Karmann Ghia Type 14 Convertible emphasized simplicity and classic style, with comfortable seating for two occupants, occasionally featuring small rear seats intended for occasional passengers or storage. This classic convertible remains highly sought after by collectors and classic car enthusiasts due to its combination of iconic 1950s styling, build quality, and the nostalgic driving experience it offers.
Overall, the 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible (Type 14) stands out as a beautifully styled compact cabriolet blending European design finesse with reliable engineering, making it a timeless classic worthy of appreciation in any classic car comparison or collection.
Discover the standout features that make the 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible a leader in its class
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The 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14) Convertible measures approximately 4,200 mm (165.4 inches) in length, 1,600 mm (63 inches) in width, and 1,350 mm (53.1 inches) in height. These compact dimensions contribute to the vehicle's classic, sporty look while maintaining the agile and nimble characteristics typical of VW cars from that era. Its relatively low height and streamlined shape add to its vintage appeal and help with aerodynamic efficiency. Despite being a convertible, the car's dimensions ensure stability and a solid road presence.
The 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14) Convertible weighs around 900 kilograms (1,984 pounds). This relatively light weight was a key factor in providing responsive handling and efficient performance for its time. The lightweight construction also complemented the rear-engine layout derived from the Volkswagen Beetle, offering a balanced driving experience. Given the modest engine power typical of this model, the vehicle’s weight helped maintain adequate acceleration and fuel efficiency while preserving its delicate and stylish character.
The wheelbase of the 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14) Convertible is 2,400 mm (94.5 inches). This length was inherited from the Volkswagen Beetle, as the Karmann Ghia Convertible shared many mechanical components with its sibling. The 2.4-meter wheelbase contributes to the vehicle’s excellent maneuverability and stability, making it suitable for tight city driving as well as leisurely cruising. This balance of compactness and comfort was well suited to the car’s niche as an affordable, stylish open-top sports car.
The ground clearance of the 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14) Convertible is approximately 160 mm (6.3 inches). This moderate clearance was adequate for everyday driving conditions typical of the 1950s and ensured enough space to avoid scraping over moderate road imperfections while sustaining a low center of gravity for enhanced handling. This balance helped maintain the classic sporty stance of the Karmann Ghia convertible without compromising road usability.
The 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible is designed to seat four passengers with a 2+2 seating configuration. The front seats are bucket-style, providing a more intimate and sporty driving position, while the rear seats, though compact, can accommodate two smaller passengers comfortably. The cabin is known for its charming vintage styling, with vinyl upholstery and simple but elegant dashboard controls. Despite its compact dimensions, the vehicle provides a surprisingly comfortable and cozy experience for open-air motoring.
Yes, the 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14) Convertible can comfortably fit into a standard garage. Most typical garages in residential areas provide a space of roughly 5,000 mm (16.4 feet) in length and 2,400 mm (7.9 feet) in width, which is sufficient to accommodate the Karmann Ghia’s dimensions of 4,200 mm (165.4 inches) long and 1,600 mm (63 inches) wide. The compact size makes it easy to maneuver in typical home garages, with ample room for doors to open and for walking around the vehicle.
The 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible is based on the Volkswagen Beetle’s platform, sharing the same wheelbase of 2,400 mm (94.5 inches). However, the Karmann Ghia features a longer overall length at approximately 4,200 mm (165.4 inches) compared to the Beetle’s roughly 4,080 mm (160.6 inches). It is also designed with a lower height (1,350 mm or 53.1 inches) than the Beetle (about 1,500 mm or 59 inches), giving the Karmann Ghia a sleeker, sportier profile. The width is similar around 1,600 mm (63 inches). Overall, the Karmann Ghia offers a more stylish and aerodynamic body, but mechanically and dimensionally is quite close to the Beetle.
Compared to other popular convertibles from the 1950s, such as the MG TF or Fiat 500 Jolly, the 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible is modestly sized but offers a unique balance of compactness and style. With a length of 4,200 mm (165.4 inches), it is slightly longer than the MG TF (around 3,810 mm or 150 inches) but shorter than larger American convertibles of the era like the Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible. Its width at 1,600 mm (63 inches) is narrower than many American convertibles but comparable to smaller European sports cars. The Karmann Ghia stands out for blending sporty aesthetics with the practicality of the Volkswagen platform.
The 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible’s trunk space is relatively modest due to the compact design and rear-engine layout. The cargo capacity is estimated to be around 220 liters (7.8 cubic feet), comparable to that of the Volkswagen Beetle from which it derives much of its architecture. This space is sufficient for small luggage or groceries but not intended for large bulky items. The convertible top mechanism slightly reduces the cargo room when folded down but adds to the open-air appeal that buyers sought at the time.
The 1957 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Convertible was equipped with a rear-mounted, air-cooled flat-four engine similar to the Volkswagen Beetle of the era. The standard engine displacement was 1.2 liters (1192 cc), delivering about 30 horsepower. This modest power output allowed a top speed of approximately 120 km/h (75 mph), which was suitable for relaxed cruising rather than aggressive sports driving. The powertrain prioritized reliability and efficiency over outright speed, making the Karmann Ghia an appealing blend of stylish design and practical everyday usability.
