Restoration

1972 Karmann Cabriolet

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[Basket Case Cabrio]

This is the car as purchased; left-hand drive, California plates, Fred Flintstone floor panels, lots of surface rust. This car was produced in October, 1971 (1972 model year) and is a Semi-Automatic made for the Californian market. The engine in the car when purchased was AH000407, the 407th of nearly 500,000 such engines made especially for the Californian market due to their strict emission controls. It was re-built to Australian delivery specification. The car was owned by Michael Rochfort and Ray De Paoli from 1988 until 1994. The panel work was performed by Vintage VW Supplies, paint was by Auburn Auto Repairs, and the trim, top and re-assembly were performed by the owners. Müller & Müller and Volksbahn Autos also supplied parts and expert advice.

[Bare Metal!] In the process of paint removal, after welding in floor repair sections and repairs to front apron. Proud part owner and father-in-law Ray De Paoli.

[Dashboard] Dash after conversion to right hand drive. Cars must be RHD in the State of New South Wales unless on Vintage registration. (30 years+ old). Wiring harness must also be extended, new holes cut for master cylinder, fusebox, steering column, etc and LHD holes filled. Mechanical steering parts can be simply replaced with RHD parts.

[Cabrio in Primer

Primer applied, ready for transport to painters for colour coat.

[Re-assembly] Back from painters. 2-pack baked enamel applied. Re-fitting of panels and other parts has begun.

[Roof Restoration]Roof headlining fitted to top, ready to attach padding bags and outer top skin.

[White Cabrio]

Nearly there. Interior still to be fitted. Wheels are known as "Riviera" style, and were fitted to VW/Porsche 914s. They were also sold as an option on the US market.

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