A sunny Friday morning, a lowered Karmann Ghia, and an owner with a twinkle in his eye. When we meet Carl, the conversation turns to the joy of driving, California roots, and a Volkswagen made to be enjoyed on the road.
Carl’s love of Volkswagen began with his very first car at the age of 18. The brand has been part of his life ever since, taking him from California to Sweden and into the Swedish VW community.
He found his 1967 Karmann Ghia through an advert in Sacramento. As the car was close to his father’s home, he asked his dad to take a look. Carl then bought it without having seen it himself.
His father’s first verdict? The shock absorbers needed replacing—the ride was far too firm! Deliberately lowering a car wasn’t really his thing. But the inspection went well, and in 2016, the Ghia arrived in Sweden.
Today, it has personality to spare: classic lines, Fuchs wheels, and a bamboo parcel shelf inside. Under the engine lid, a 1,915 cc engine adds a little extra spirit to the driving experience. Carl handles the servicing himself and recently adjusted the valves and changed the oil.
It’s clear he likes the car just as it is. The low stance is part of its charm, along with the pleasure of cruising in something full of history and character. The paintwork and colour combination may turn heads, but collecting show trophies isn’t the goal. This car is all about enjoying the drive.
