Chrysler – Ghia GS-1 Special (1953)

Chrysler did not appear particularly innovative in the early 1950s. The underlying conservative approach was particularly evident in the car bodies. This was a wake-up call and Chrysler boss K.T. Keller came up with a plan which envisaged a great deal of potential for the brand through a modern and elegant design. He then hired automobile designer Virgil Exner, who had created a sensation with his designs at GM and Studebaker. Keller gave Exner a free hand. The latter was quick to take up this opportunity and immediately sketched a number of bold Idea Cars. Carrozzeria Ghia were willing to take these ideas forward and put them into equally inspired practice whereupon the Chrysler managers made contact. They liaised with Luigi Segre and his Chief Designer Mario Boano, who were keen to cooperate. A small series was launched in 1953 and Chrysler delivered the chassis to Italy for the New Yorker model. Ghia produced the bodies by hand on the basis of Virgil Exner’s drawings. This example is one of just 18 cars built, and the father of its current owner acquired it in Switzerland during the 1970s. Two years ago, a decision was taken to put the car through a restoration and this gave back the presence of yesteryear to the impressive coupé.