- Exceptionally rare; 1 of just 18 built
- Offered from 45 years of singular ownership
- Previous ownership includes Chrysler collector Robert Frumkin for 20 years
- A largely original example with just 33,000 miles from new
LOT 680
Addendum: PLEASE NOTE: This Chrysler is equipped with a 1954 PowerFlite automatic transmission. PLEASE NOTE: Seller believes mileage to be actual, however due to the age of the vehicle, the title is exempt from mileage requirements.
Selling on Saturday Evening
Coachwork by Ghia
1953 Chrysler Special Coupe
First introduced to the world at the Paris Salon in October 1952, the Chrysler Special was a show car designed by Virgil Exner and constructed by Italian coachbuilder Ghia. Built on a New Yorker chassis and featuring smooth flowing body lines, the Special was well-received by the public, but the high-ups at Chrysler were hesitant. Chrysler export manager C.B. Thomas would eventually convince the board and it was approved for a very limited run of just 18 units in total. Today, Chrysler Special Ghia's are cherished by collectors, thanks to their rarity, impressive performance, unique Italian coachwork and scarcity to acquire.
1 of just 18 examples to be crafted from the Turin factory, this 1953 Chrysler Special Coupe by Ghia is a rare and seldom seen motor car with rich ownership history. Sold new in '53 to famous jockey, Johnny Longden by France Motors in Paris, Mr. Longden would ship this example on the SS Liberte to his residential home in Arcadia, California, in September of that year. By the 1950s, this Ghia had passed to a resident in the affluent neighborhood of San Marino, California. Under her ownership, this Special Coupe received supplemental bumpers to protect the hand formed front and rear body, which explains the holes present today. This Ghia would then find the home of well-known Chrysler collector and authority, Robert Frumkin of Los Angeles in the '60s. Mr. Frumkin would retain this wonderful example for two decades, during which he would receive a handwritten letter from original owner Johnny Longden, confirming the Ghia's provenance, as well as its originality and color. In 1979, this example would trade hands for the last time to the current owner and be a welcomed edition to his own collection.
Finished in its original and elegant Dove Gray, this Ghia is believed to have received just one professional exterior respray since it was sold new in 1953. The chrome and stainless are original and show well for 71 years of age. The smooth and classic Ghia body contours and lines are timeless and show well from all angles. Following suit to the exterior, the interior is also largely original, with comfortable maroon leather seats and presents quite nicely. The lifeline of this high society automobile is a Chrysler 331-cubic-inch Hemi V-8 engine that is mated to a 1954 PowerFlite automatic transmission that shifts smoothly. Currently equipped with a 1954 four-barrel carburetor, this Ghia is accompanied by the original carburetor as well.
A significant automobile, cherished by the current owner for over 45 years, this 1953 Chrysler Special Coupe with Coachwork by Ghia, with its limited roster of owners, would make for a delightful addition to one's collection. Known at the time of design as 'The Styling Special', it has become sought-after by collectors across the globe. This Special is highly authentic and accurately portrays the vision of its legendary creator, Virgil Exner.
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