Few cars from the late 1950s captured the essence of transatlantic style and exclusivity quite like the 1958 Dual-Ghia Convertible. This car represents a unique collaboration between the American Dual Motors Corporation and the renowned Italian coachbuilder Ghia. Only about 115 convertible examples were ever produced, immediately making it a status symbol for the mid-century elite. This specific car, chassis #160, is #60 of that rare production run. It has benefited from a comprehensive, high-quality refurbishment, presenting a stunning fusion of Detroit muscle and Italian artistry.
The Evolution of the Dual-Ghia Legacy
The story of the Dual-Ghia begins with Chrysler’s Firearrow series of concept cars. Design legend Virgil Exner penned these innovative designs. Chrysler’s Ghia-built Firearrow IV ultimately inspired the production car. When Chrysler chose not to pursue mass production, Detroit entrepreneur Gene Casaroll purchased the design rights. Casaroll, who owned Dual Motors Corporation, then worked with US Ghia representative Paul Farago to refine the concept. It debuted as the Dodge Firebomb before entering production in 1956 as the Dual-Ghia. The stunning bodywork was skillfully crafted by hand in Italy. Final assembly, however, took place at Casaroll’s facility in Michigan, bridging the two distinct automotive worlds.
A Coachbuilt Masterpiece
The 1958 Dual-Ghia Convertible bodywork is a testament to fine Italian craftsmanship. This example was disassembled and stripped to bare metal during its refurbishment. It was then professionally repainted in its current deep burgundy finish. Exterior features include chrome bumpers with prominent overriders. Single headlights are elegantly set within stylish mesh-covered side grilles. Additional details like fender vents and a wraparound windscreen enhance the car’s sleek, low-slung profile. The design is finished with chrome exhaust tips and subtle vertical tail fins above dual-bullet taillights, typical of the era.
Interior Luxury and Exclusive Features
The cockpit features a sophisticated blend of luxury and innovation. The bucket seats and rear bench are trimmed in striking tan and burgundy leather upholstery. This color combination extends to the coordinated door panels. Burgundy carpeting further complements the interior design. A rare and intriguing feature is the under-dash Highway Hi-Fi record player. This novelty allowed for in-car listening of proprietary 16 2/3 rpm records. Additional equipment includes power windows, a Town & Country AM radio, and a locking glovebox. Plexiglass sun visors complete the thoughtful, driver-focused interior.
Instrumentation and Driver Controls
The burgundy and tan steering wheel frames a distinctive engine-turned instrument panel. This panel houses a full complement of gauges. They include a 120-mph speedometer and a 6k-rpm tachometer. A clock and auxiliary gauges for monitoring the engine are also present. The chrome horn ring adds another flash of period detail. The five-digit odometer shows 61k miles, though the car’s total mileage is unknown. This elegant dashboard layout provides a clear and engaging experience for the driver of the 1958 Dual-Ghia Convertible.
American Power and Drivetrain Specs
Propelling this rare classic is a robust 315 cubic-inch Dodge Red Ram V8 engine. This motor utilizes polyspherical combustion chambers, a high-performance design of the period. It features five main bearings and is fed by a Carter four-barrel carburetor. This setup was factory rated at 230 horsepower at 4,300 rpm, which was a competitive output for 1958. Power is efficiently delivered to the rear wheels via a two-speed PowerFlite automatic transmission. This durable and simple transmission was a Chrysler Corporation staple. The combination provides confident boulevard cruising with sufficient performance on demand.
Chassis and Mechanical Foundations
The Dual-Ghia Convertible rides on a shortened Dodge passenger car chassis with a 115-inch wheelbase. The front suspension employs unequal-length A-arms and coil springs. Meanwhile, the live rear axle is supported by semi-elliptical leaf springs. Power steering provides ease of maneuverability at low speeds. Stopping is handled effectively by power-assisted drums at all four corners. The car sits on black-painted 15-inch steel wheels, dressed with chrome Dual-Ghia-branded covers. These covers are mounted with classic BFGoodrich Silvertown whitewall tires.
Summary
The 1958 Dual-Ghia Convertible remains a captivating piece of automotive history. It successfully blends powerful American V8 engineering with exclusive, hand-finished Italian design. With only about 115 examples produced, its rarity is a key part of its immense appeal. This chassis, #160, is presented in stunning burgundy with a complementary leather interior and features sought-after accessories like the Highway Hi-Fi. This Dual-Ghia represents a brief, glamorous chapter of post-war motoring. It continues to charm collectors as a truly unique and significant classic convertible.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: bringatrailer.com
