In the Karmann one-off on the rally
07/19/2015
Would you have noticed? No, this is not a normal VW Karmann-Ghia Type 34. It may look almost like its series-production brothers, but the differences are clear.
The differently designed headlights are already noticeable from the front. The 1965 prototype has the two lamps close together ....
... while the series version has them at a clear distance.
The big difference, however, is of course the rear. The 1965 VW Karmann-Ghia Type 34 TL shown here is a fastback coupé, which means it has a tailgate concealing an easily accessible (flat) trunk and, of course, the engine.
The conversion was a success, but the unusual shape was nevertheless surprising due to the rarity of the prototype.
The practical fastback version should have been shown at the 1965 IAA, but Volkswagen decided against it, allegedly because the noise insulation in the interior was not good enough. Something we were unable to confirm, because the noise comfort of the car, which we were invited by Volkswagen to drive at the Bensberg Classics 2015 rally, which enjoyed the best weather conditions, shone with the best manners and we didn't notice a loud engine either.
The coupé, equipped with a three-speed automatic transmission and electric sunroof (!), was great fun to drive through the Bergisches Land. And it enticed many spectators at the roadside to take a second look when it became clear that this was no ordinary Type 34.
The interior of the prototype is also close to series production, with the glued-on wood paneling alone indicating its special status, while the series production interior was in the same color as the car.
As always, our comprehensive report on the Schloss Bensberg Classics will follow in the next few days.
