1957 Dual-Ghia Convertible

Description: (866) 246-3498(866) 246-3498 Visit eBay Store 1234567891011121314151617181920212223of23 Full size photos Full size photos 1957 Dual-Ghia Convertible Stock #: 150 Exterior Color: Blue Interior Color: Cream Transmission: Automatic Drivetrain: FWD Fuel Type: Gasoline Mileage: 11,287 • 1 of only 117 Dual-Ghia's produced, fewer than 35 known to still exist• Believed to have been purchased by Frank Sinatra for Ava Gardner• Documented and featured in 1992 Sinatra TV Series• Prominently displayed in the Petersen Automotive Museum at its grand opening• Awards at Palos Verde and Greystone Mansion ConcoursDual-Ghia’s allure is more than its sheer exclusivity or the intrigue of an American-Italian co-production. It’s the style, the-overcome-the-impossible swagger and Rat Pack panache. Very few concept cars in history have made it to production, but thanks to Eugene Casaroll’s tenacity, this one did and it’s every bit the star he dreamed of. One look at the Dual-Ghia can transform Sunset Boulevard from seedy to glamourous as the sophisticated beauty purrs down the strip with Sinatra behind the wheel. Old blue eyes, a diehard Dual-Ghia fan and owner, is said to have purchased this particular car, VIN 150, for film star, Ava Gardner.Only 117 Dual-Ghias were produced and a mere 32 are known to still exist. The fact that they were made at all is quite an anomaly. They evolved from concept cars built by Carrozzeria Ghia for Dodge and staggeringly few concept cars in history ever made it into regular production due to the astronomical cost. The reality of a mass-produced automobile to a handcrafted show car is a gulf of expense; consequently, its quality is like comparing Michelangelo’s David to Mattel’s Ken doll. It’s that level of detail and quality that made Eugene Casaroll’s passion project an unlikely reality; ultimately, it also led to the dream car’s inevitable demise.Eugene Casaroll, the visionary behind Dual-Ghia, is largely recognized for inventing the modern car hauler. He also manufactured tank movers for the military that were powered by an engine in the front and rear, hence the name Dual Motors. His true passion was the Dual-Ghia. Inspired by Virgil Exner-designed Dodge concept cars built by Italian coachwork firm, Carrozzeria Ghia, Casaroll negotiated with Dodge to use their design. Passenger and trunk space were expanded for luxurious comfort. Then, in response to fin fever gripping the nation, Casaroll made a subtle, last-minute alteration to the design to accommodate the latest trend. The final product is a sophisticated, nuanced fin that complements the mid-century mod aesthetic of the car in a way that is timeless, especially in comparison to some of the garish, overdone fins of the day. It’s often said that Dual-Ghia had the longest production line in the world, from Detroit, Michigan to Turin, Italy and back again. A Dodge chassis was shipped to Ghia where its wheelbase was shortened then world-class craftsmen fabricated the sleek, steel body by hand. No expense was spared in fabrication or in the Turin interior. From there, the car returned to Dual Motors where bodies were fitted with the interior’s trim, electrical and the powerful Dodge powertrain. American mechanical innovation and Italian craftsmanship came together to produce pure dynamite, but when something blazes that hot it’s bound to burn out sooner rather than later. Casaroll is rumored to have lost money on every Dual-Ghia produced and his goal of 150 cars a year fell short at only 117. That did nothing to stem the tide of fervent appeal. Hollywood celebrities and heads of state across the world clamored for a Dual-Ghia. Owners included then-governor Ronald Reagan, President Eisenhower, the Shah of Iran, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnez, as well as Francis Albert Sinatra and his Rat Pack.This example, purchased by Frank Sinatra’s production company, is believed to have been a gift for Ava Gardner, but that’s not the car’s only connection to the 'Chairman of the Board'. In 1992, the sensual, midnight blue beauty was featured in the television series, Sinatra; Warner Brothers’ paperwork and insurance for the car during filming accompany the sale. The car would continue to enjoy the attentions of Hollywood. Vehicle Description • 1 of only 117 Dual-Ghia's produced, fewer than 35 known to still exist• Believed to have been purchased by Frank Sinatra for Ava Gardner• Documented and featured in 1992 Sinatra TV Series• Prominently displayed in the Petersen Automotive Museum at its grand opening• Awards at Palos Verde and Greystone Mansion ConcoursDual-Ghia’s allure is more than its sheer exclusivity or the intrigue of an American-Italian co-production. It’s the style, the-overcome-the-impossible swagger and Rat Pack panache. Very few concept cars in history have made it to production, but thanks to Eugene Casaroll’s tenacity, this one did and it’s every bit the star he dreamed of. One look at the Dual-Ghia can transform Sunset Boulevard from seedy to glamourous as the sophisticated beauty purrs down the strip with Sinatra behind the wheel. Old blue eyes, a diehard Dual-Ghia fan and owner, is said to have purchased this particular car, VIN 150, for film star, Ava Gardner.Only 117 Dual-Ghias were produced and a mere 32 are known to still exist. The fact that they were made at all is quite an anomaly. They evolved from concept cars built by Carrozzeria Ghia for Dodge and staggeringly few concept cars in history ever made it into regular production due to the astronomical cost. The reality of a mass-produced automobile to a handcrafted show car is a gulf of expense; consequently, its quality is like comparing Michelangelo’s David to Mattel’s Ken doll. It’s that level of detail and quality that made Eugene Casaroll’s passion project an unlikely reality; ultimately, it also led to the dream car’s inevitable demise.Eugene Casaroll, the visionary behind Dual-Ghia, is largely recognized for inventing the modern car hauler. He also manufactured tank movers for the military that were powered by an engine in the front and rear, hence the name Dual Motors. His true passion was the Dual-Ghia. Inspired by Virgil Exner-designed Dodge concept cars built by Italian coachwork firm, Carrozzeria Ghia, Casaroll negotiated with Dodge to use their design. Passenger and trunk space were expanded for luxurious comfort. Then, in response to fin fever gripping the nation, Casaroll made a subtle, last-minute alteration to the design to accommodate the latest trend. The final product is a sophisticated, nuanced fin that complements the mid-century mod aesthetic of the car in a way that is timeless, especially in comparison to some of the garish, overdone fins of the day. It’s often said that Dual-Ghia had the longest production line in the world, from Detroit, Michigan to Turin, Italy and back again. A Dodge chassis was shipped to Ghia where its wheelbase was shortened then world-class craftsmen fabricated the sleek, steel body by hand. No expense was spared in fabrication or in the Turin interior. From there, the car returned to Dual Motors where bodies were fitted with the interior’s trim, electrical and the powerful Dodge powertrain. American mechanical innovation and Italian craftsmanship came together to produce pure dynamite, but when something blazes that hot it’s bound to burn out sooner rather than later. Casaroll is rumored to have lost money on every Dual-Ghia produced and his goal of 150 cars a year fell short at only 117. That did nothing to stem the tide of fervent appeal. Hollywood celebrities and heads of state across the world clamored for a Dual-Ghia. Owners included then-governor Ronald Reagan, President Eisenhower, the Shah of Iran, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnez, as well as Francis Albert Sinatra and his Rat Pack.This example, purchased by Frank Sinatra’s production company, is believed to have been a gift for Ava Gardner, but that’s not the car’s only connection to the 'Chairman of the Board'. In 1992, the sensual, midnight blue beauty was featured in the television series, Sinatra; Warner Brothers’ paperwork and insurance for the car during filming accompany the sale. The car would continue to enjoy the attentions of Hollywood. Vehicle Warranty Most new vehicles come with a factory warranty and some used vehicles have a remaining factory warranty. Please contact us for the warranty details specific to this vehicle. About Auburn Classic Cars Located in Auburn, Indiana, “Home of the Classics”, Auburn Classic Cars has a rich history of selling some of the finest cars to buyers around the country. Proudly offering an assortment of automobiles, from muscle cars, classic cars, European sports cars, and everything in between, there is something for everyone. An easy-approach consignment dealership, we are able to maximize the exposure and value of your automobile and look forward to assisting you in the sale of your automobile or helping you get into the car of your dreams. Contact us for more details (866) 246-3498(866) 246-3498 Terms and Conditions Payment Options We accept the following payment methods: - Cashier's Check/money order Vehicle Pickup & Shipping All shipping charges are buyer's responsibility. Finance, Warranty, Shipping question? Call the dealer at (866) 246-3498 General Terms Notice to Bidders: The vehicles we list for sale at eBay are also for sale at our retail location. Please contact us to confirm vehicle availability. We reserve the right to end an auction early. Deposit: We require a non-refundable $500 deposit within 48 hours of winning the auction. Please call to make arrangements for payment. We accept the following forms of payment: Cash in person, certified funds, institutional financing. All sales transactions must be completed within 7 calendar days of auction close. Prices are subject to change without notice. Although every effort is made to present accurate and reliable vehicle information, use of this information is voluntary, and should only be deemed reliable after an independent review of its accuracy, completeness, and timeliness. It is the sole responsibility of the customer to verify the existence of options, accessories and the vehicle condition before time of sale. Any and all differences must be addressed prior to time of sale. No expressed or implied warranties, including the availability or condition of the equipment listed is made. EPA mileage estimates are for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary depending on driving conditions, driving habits, and vehicle maintenance. 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Price: 379950 USD

Location: Auburn, Indiana

End Time: 2024-11-05T14:01:21.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD