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The Karmann Archives

30 June 2025
The Karmann Archives
While trying to date my own early convertible, I spent hours looking into the early history of VW convertibles. Trying to identify various early prototypes, reading documentation and studying old photographs. This has all led to another little project that I've been working on - The Karmann Archives.

I've collected loads of photographs, documents and researched loads of history, both of the Beetle Cabriolet and also the Karmann Ghia. On numerous occasions I have thought, wouldn't it be great if this was all held in one central place. Add to this that although there are some individual registries (for pre '52 cabrios and for low-light Ghia's) there is no registry for all Karmann models, so for example if you want to find out more information about other '60s or 70's cabrios or late Ghia's then there is no registry for you to consult. 

So after mulling this over in the back of my mind for a while, I then got asked by SteVWe Dressler of The Heb Hunters a question about early Oval cabriolets. It was a tricky question to answer and what I really needed was a registry to look the information up on - but there wasn't one. So I mentioned to SteVWe about my idea of a Karmann resource that would include registries, photos and other documents and he convinced me that I should go ahead and do it. But what's more, SteVWe wanted to be involved - so now SteVWe is a Karmann Hunter too.

This isn't just another database. It’s a collaborative archive. The aim is to build a trusted reference for originality, helping owners, restorers and researchers get as close to factory-correct as possible. From brochures, original photos, service manuals to technical drawings - every contribution helps us build the archive.

Please take a look at the new site - https://karmann-archives.org/ and please create an account and submit your Karmann if you have one and help build the resource.