Volkswagen Karmann Ghia 1600 Cabriolet

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Launched in 1956, the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Coupe was VW's attempt to raise its image at a time when the western world was emerging from bleak post-war austerity into an era dominated by American showbiz glamour.

Using the frumpy Adolf-era Beetle as their starting point, VW's executives contracted German coach builder Karmann to turn their ugly duckling into a swan. In an inspired move, Karmann turned to Italian styling house Ghia to inject some Latin brio into the project – and an instant classic was born.

Basically a Beetle in a Hollywood party frock, the Karmann Ghia became a runaway success whose cool California styling made it a best-seller right up until 1974 when it was finally replaced by the infinitely less hip Scirocco. Still highly sought after today, the car just exudes a surf-dude cool which makes even a dreary run to the office feel like a trip to Rockaway Beach.

This 1970 Karmann Ghia Cabriolet has the later, more powerful 60bhp 1.6-litre engine which gives it a top speed of almost 100mph. An original RHD car which spent its first two decades in sunny Australia, it was imported to the UK in 1991 and has covered only 18,874 miles in the last 27 years with a good file of invoices to document regular upkeep regardless of cost.

In 2007 it was cosmetically restored by Adrian Rogerson of Classic Car Restorations in Congleton at a cost of some £5,000 including a full respray, refurbished door panels and engine cover (photos on file). It was also prepared for an MOT with new wheel bearings fitted. Other notable work from Manchester Air Cooled consists of multiple full services, head stud replacement, cylinder reseal, rocker gaskets, alternator conversion plus many other service items.

Looking lovely in red with a black interior, it has been fitted with a Gene Berg shifter kit which gives a quicker, more precise gear change. Due to have a new MOT in time for the sale, this air-cooled beauty is sure to turn heads wherever it goes. RHD Cabriolets are few and far between, especially with the 1.6 engine, and it could be a while before you see another as good as this.