For some people, the Ghia name is immediately associated with a luxury trim level of some domestic Ford models. However, there is more to Carrozzeria Ghia than a mere badge because it has designed and produced bodies for concept and production cars for Renault, Ferrari, and Chrysler. One of its 1950s models was the 1953 Chrysler Special. Introduced in October 1952 as a concept at the Paris Salon, it proved such a hit that the company constructed nineteen production examples the following year. Despite being based on Chrysler underpinnings, the Special remained largely unknown outside Europe until a few found their way into North America well after production ended. This is one of those cars, and following a meticulous restoration performed in the early 1990s, it continues to present superbly. After spending two decades in the hands of a private collector, it is set to cross the auction blocks in a sale where all proceeds will go to charity. The Ghia is listed here at RM Sotheby’s in Phoenix, Arizona. It will go under the hammer on January 26th in a No Reserve auction. The seller’s estimate is $500,000 – $800,000, but history shows the price could go higher. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Larry D for spotting this gorgeous classic.

Considering its relatively conservative appearance, it is hard to believe the Chrysler Special’s styling flowed from Virgil Exner’s pen. It features some of his hallmarks, like the low and sleek roof, but the lack of fins capable of downing a small aircraft gives the car an elegant appearance. Ghia produced the original concept in 1952 on a shortened New Yorker platform, and such was the response that M. Ladouch, proprietor of the French Chrysler importers France Motors, commissioned Ghia to produce a production version in 1953 with the support of Chrysler’s Export Manager, C.B. Thomas. Records are slightly vague, but it is generally agreed that Ghia built nineteen cars before production ended. Despite its roots, the Special remained virtually unknown in its home country, with only one car initially finding its way to North America in the hands of Mr. Thomas. Awareness grew as further private imports surfaced, but it is agreed that most remained in Italy or France. It is unclear when this car migrated to the US, but it underwent a meticulous restoration in the 1990s. It was tackled as a “money is no object” exercise, and the results remain stunning three decades later. Its Candy Apple Red paint shines richly, with an exceptional depth of color. The panels are laser straight, and there is no evidence of rust. The trim and glass are excellent, while the wire wheels and wide whitewall tires add the perfect finishing touch to the exterior.

If you peel away this Special’s elegant coachwork, what hides beneath is a chassis and drivetrain derived from a Chrysler New Yorker. The 331ci V8 sends 180hp to the rear wheels via a two-speed Powerflite transmission, with power assistance for the steering and brakes adding to the luxury impression. Surprisingly, the Special is more than 60 lbs lighter than the donor car, meaning it should improve on the New Yorker’s figures of 18.7 seconds for the ¼-mile and a top speed of 100mph. The engine bay presents superbly, and it doesn’t flatter to deceive. This Special is no trailer queen, with the owner slipping behind the wheel regularly to undertake some relatively long journeys. It is a turnkey classic awaiting a new owner to continue the traveling tradition.

If a buyer is asked to pay a premium price for a premium model, it is unlikely they will accept an interior featuring acres of vinyl upholstery and plastic trim. You will find little of either material inside this Chrysler, but there is plenty of supple and beautiful Saddle leather upholstery. Its condition is excellent, with only a few wrinkles to indicate it has seen use. The carpet is spotless, and any remaining surfaces that aren’t painted to match the exterior wear a heavy coating of chrome. I think the air conditioning may be a later addition, but the pushbutton radio is a factory item. I imagine this interior would garner plenty of positive comments at any show.

The listing for this 1953 Special says that the car continues to influence Chrysler’s styling today. I questioned that statement initially, but then I closely examined the supplied photos. When you consider the relatively high waistline, low roof, and narrow windows of the Special, there is more than a passing resemblance to the company’s 21st Century “300 Series” models. Considering seventy years separate the two, I find that quite extraordinary. This car isn’t perfect, but its presentation is pretty stunning. I doubt it will surpass the 2010 record price of $858,000, but watching the auction to see what happens should be fascinating. Is anyone willing to join me?