The creativity of “car people” can be interesting on the low end and absolutely captivating on the high. Of course, where this scale stops completely depends on the viewer, but so many interesting cars come from this side of the aisle. An exciting tribute car is up for consideration: a 1957 VW Karmann Ghia. Listed for $25,000 on Facebook Marketplace in Aguanga, CA, this Hot VWs-featured Type 14 is ready for fun and adventure. Where does this car fall on your scale?

The Karmann Ghia is one of those polarizing models in the classic car community. To some people, it is one of the most beautiful cars made; to others, it is an oddball at best. But compared to the venerable Beetle, the Ghia is a shapely gem. Combining the design talents of Carozzeria Ghia with the coach-building talents of Karmann, the Type 14 was first brought to market in 1955 as a 2+2 coupe or convertible. These cars gave potential VW customers a much different model to consider compared to the Beetle while using the same mechanical setup.

Our featured car is a 1957 model, making it very early for a Ghia in America. The seller states that it is in solid original condition with the original 36 HP air-cooled 4-cylinder and 6-volt electrical system (hopefully, it comes with an extra wrench to bang on the solenoid when you’re trying to start it). But the real showstopper is the paint job. Given the name “La Cucaracha,” this roach is painted to look like it competed in a 50s Panamericana race, complete with hand-painted lettering and dirt spots. The dapper roach mascot is a fine touch to this highly creative ride! It also includes period accessories to make you feel like you’re roaring down a dirt road in a 1950s transcontinental race.

So, what is your take on tribute cars? Do you think they are cool or are they trying too hard? What about this Ghia?  I think tribute cars are a great way to experience a snapshot in time or, more importantly, a snapshot you have created in your mind. They are great ways to affordably live out those automotive desires that live rent-free in our brains without damaging a historically important ride. Who knows, maybe if you create something as memorable as this Ghia, future generations will consider it significant, cementing your creation in the annals of automotive history.