This 1959 Rometsch Lawrence Coupé is a rare coachbuilt Volkswagen-based grand tourer of which only 115 were produced between 1957 and 1961. According to the official Rometsch register, just 34 are known to survive worldwide, making this example one of the few remaining opportunities to acquire one. Designed by Bert Lawrence and hand-built in Berlin, the model is renowned for its distinctive proportions, wraparound panoramic windscreen, and fine aluminium trim, elements that distinguished it from mass-produced contemporaries.

This particular car has been the subject of a complete body-off restoration to concours standard. The bodywork was entrusted to the Grundmann family, recognised as the leading authority on Rometsch restorations, while the mechanical components were rebuilt by Richarzzz Speedshop in Germany with an emphasis on both authenticity and long-term reliability. All stages of the restoration are supported by an extensive file of invoices, photographs, and related documents.

The current owner specified a subtle Vintage Speed theme, enhancing performance and drivability while retaining the car’s period character. The upgrades include an adjustable front axle for improved stance and handling, a Wolfsburg West “Okrasa” performance engine paired with an external oil tank for better cooling, a Vintage Speed stainless steel exhaust system, and powder-coated steel wheels in the correct style. The result is a coupé that combines the refinement of a hand-built 1950s design with discreet sporting capability. Accompanying the car are original period photographs, a copy of the German Fahrzeugbrief, TÜV inspection reports, and a Californian title, reflecting its history across Europe and the United States. Built on the dependable Volkswagen Beetle platform but priced well above the Karmann-Ghia when new, the Rometsch Lawrence was too costly to produce in large numbers. This scarcity has made surviving examples highly sought after among collectors, particularly those restored to this standard. Find it for sale at €149,500 (today $173,500) here in Renkum, Netherlands. Thanks to Fluc for this tip!