The Karmann Coupe: A One-of-a-Kind Build

[OB Customs]

Every custom build starts with inspiration, and for my latest project, "The Karmann Coupe," that inspiration came from a stunning green coupe built by Brian Davies. The lines, the craftsmanship, and the essence of his work sparked an idea in me: What if, when Volkswagen partnered with Karmann to build the prototype Notchback Convertible, they also commissioned a sport coupe? This hypothetical scenario set the stage for my own creative exploration.

With this premise in mind, I’ve dedicated my build to imagining what Karmann might have designed had they pursued such a prototype. Staying true to the era, I’ve incorporated elements that Karmann and Volkswagen would likely have used, ensuring authenticity in the details. At the same time, I’ve added my signature touches to make the project uniquely mine.

For instance, one of the key changes I’ve made is reworking the dashboard. Rather than sticking with the stock Type 3 dash, I decided to swap it for something entirely different—a design that captures the spirit of the prototype while showcasing my personal style. These creative decisions allow me to honor the legacy of the original designs while pushing boundaries in ways that make the car truly one of a kind.

Beyond just building a car, I wanted to document this journey. This blog serves as a space to reflect on the progress made over the past few years, from early concepts to the latest milestones. Sharing this journey allows me to connect with others who share my passion for vintage Volkswagens and custom builds.

In the posts to come, I’ll dive into the details of each stage of the build. From sourcing parts and overcoming challenges to refining the finishing touches, I’ll share insights, photos, and stories that bring "The Karmann Coupe" to life.

I hope you’ll join me on this journey as I continue to reimagine what could have been and bring this vision to the road. Let’s celebrate the artistry of custom builds and the timeless charm of Volkswagen’s air-cooled classics.

[OB Customs]

Here is what I started with on this build..

[Glenn]

Wait... you started with what looks like a decent Notch?
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Glenn
74 Beetle Specs | 74 Beetle Restoration | 2180cc Engine
"You may not get what you pay for, but you always pay for what you get"

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עַם יִשְׂרָאֵל חַי

[OB Customs]

[OB Customs]

Here is the rendering for my concept coupe.

[KTPhil]

[finster]

had a bit of a 'yikes he's cut down a nice notch' moment but it's come out looking good. not sure the colour is the best, it would look good in the dark pearl blue that it was before. have you sorted side windows for it? can we see a better rear view too please?
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"we're here on Earth to fart around" kurt vonnegut

nothing lasts, nothing is finished, and nothing is perfect...

[Busstom]

[finster]

ah, my mistook!
now I'm back in yikes mode!
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"we're here on Earth to fart around" kurt vonnegut

nothing lasts, nothing is finished, and nothing is perfect...

[OB Customs]

[OB Customs]

One of the many steps was to figure out how to get the chopped look without cutting the windshield down after talking with the owner of the green coupe in the 1st post I decided to roll the windshield back to give the chopped look but keep a full size front glass. I decided to use my parts fastback to work out all the details before doing it on my notch. Here are some pics from when I started.

[oprn]

Your parts cars are in way better condition than anything I have seen here lately!
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Our cars get old, we get old but driving an old VW never gets old!