Mythbuster: The real truth behind the Volkswagen Type 34

Debunking the most common old wives’ tales

The design of the 1961-69 Type 34 ‘Razor Edge’ Karmann Ghia has been attributed to Sergio Sartorelli of Ghia. But is it? The American looks – similar to the Chevrolet Corvair, introduced to combat the flood of US VW imports – has led to claims Tom Tjaarda had a hand in its shaping. He’d moved to Turin in 1958 and started his career with Ghia under Sartorelli. Between 1961 and 1962, Karmann struggled to productionise al fresco Type 34s. Ultimately it failed, despite sales brochures being printed for both convertible and cabriolet variants. However, 17 cabriolets and two convertibles were built, and some were sold into private hands via dealers. Actually, it had the second. Well, the second to be a factory-fitted option rather than an aftermarket job. Porsche’s 356B T6 Sunroof Coupe just beat it, being offered from September 1961, while powered summer sliding was a Type 34 choice only from 1962. Given the close relationship between Volkswagen and Porsche, it’s no big surprise that both cars shared the same mechanism.

4 IT FAILED BECAUSE OF ITS LOOKS

The Type 34’s appearance divided opinion. Certainly, compared to the original Karmann Ghia it’s less beautiful. But it’s hardly ugly and has a dramatic elegance. The disappointing production tally of 42,527 was more down to the decision not to sell it in the USA – Volkswagen’s biggest market – plus a hefty price tag (£1276 in the UK in 1964 or £1391 with electric sunroof) that could have bought two Beetles (£626 or £666 with manual sunroof). Richard Gunn Styling polarises opinion, but no US sales dented production levels.