Among classic Volkswagens, the Karmann Ghia has always held a special place thanks to its timeless Italian design by Ghia and the craftsmanship of Karmann. But within the long production run, the so-called “Lowlight” models, built between 1955 and 1959, stand out as the most elegant and desirable. Characterized by their lower front headlights and sleeker proportions, these early cars are today considered the purest and most beautiful interpretation of the model, making them highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

The example presented here is a 1958 Karmann Ghia Lowlight coupe, fresh from long-term storage. Despite its age, the body shows no obvious rust — a rare quality that may be explained by the mild Sicilian climate, reminiscent of Southern California, where many of the best-preserved Ghias are found. That said, the car does display numerous dents and imperfections that will require attention in a full restoration.

Inside, the cabin is complete but clearly in need of refurbishment, with the original steering wheel and dashboard still in place. The car is believed to retain its original black Italian license plates, a key feature that adds both authenticity and value for collectors who prize originality. As an untouched project, this 1958 Karmann Ghia Lowlight represents an excellent opportunity to restore one of the most beautiful Volkswagen designs ever made. With its rare early-production features and the potential of a rust-free shell, it offers a strong foundation for a high-quality restoration. Find it for sale at €13,000 (today $15,000) here in Messina, Italy.