Howdy Webriders! Dr. VW back again for part three of the Familienfest 14 series! Last time we talked about the lead sled Karmann Ghia that I had the pleasure of seeing several times around the VW show circuit. Today, we’re going to take a look at another custom Ghia, but this one if at the polar opposite end of the spectrum. In fact, it’s so weird, it might even be the only one of its kind. Check out the Baja Ghia!

Now, like the Sled Ghia, I had the pleasure of seeing this Ghia for the fourth or fifth time in the last few years. I’ve always thought of it as one of those insane abortions that end up happening, but I’ll admit the car has grown on me. At any rate, its a first class peice of engineering and fabrication, even if does lack the refined sophistication usually associated with Karmann Ghia chassis based vehicles.

Unlike the sled, this Ghia does have some Fiberglass work, but you wouldn’t know it just by looking. As far as customization goes, the ideology and general design practices employed by baja bug enthusiasts were carried over and applied to the Ghia chassis. Fully caged, cut off rear apron and shortened fenders, cut wheel wells, and a full body and suspension raise are the hallmarks of the offroad buggy crowd, and can be seen effectively executed on this ride while still maintaining the core lines and shape of the Ghia. The engine is also caged, with an offroad exhaust to provide the necessary ground clearance. Special offroad parts are evident on the engine, including pre-filter socks over the carb air cleaners, high vibration coil, aftermarket distributor and electronic ignition– just to name a few!

No corners were cut with the suspension either, with multiple shocks and custom mounts, this ghia stands taller than even some of the other extreme buggies. The interior is spartan but also technologically advanced, featuring a large tach, custom shifter, and tons of switches for the fog lights and other accessories. Pretty rad, for a frankencar.

Well webriders, thats all for this edition of Foriegn Fridays! Theres more Familienfest Coverage on the way, so stay tuned! In the meantime, check out the rest of the pictures from the gallery! This is Dr. VW– out.