When it comes to interesting designs and styling, this car shown here may be one of the most interesting examples of all time. This is the 1955 Ghia Streamline X ‘Gilda’, chassis number 9967, a unique machine that was developed to be both a demonstration of style and showcase of high performance. The Gilda was designed by Italian automobile designer, Giovanni Savonuzzi, who received his degree in mechanical engineering from Politecnico di Torino in 1939. In fact, Politecnico di Torino was the place where the shape for this magnificent automobile was created, which was developed in a wind tunnel. Not only was Savonuzzi an automobile designer, but he was also a aerodynamicist and engineer who also had a major interest in mathematics. This explains the car’s extreme styling, which came at the request of Chrysler executive, Virgil Exner. The Italian automobile design and coach building firm known as Carrozzeria Ghia SpA was responsible for the development of the car itself, using Savonuzzi’s design, and Exner’s ideas, it was completed in time to be used as a show car at during the Salone di Torino in the year 1955. The car features a number of intriguing design cues and elements such as huge tail fins, an unusual cockpit, a two-tone paint scheme, and futuristic looking disc wheels. Originally, the Gilda was designed an an engineless concept car, however, the car was subsequently fitted with a period-correct single stage gas turbine power plant. This car has spent time in the Ford museum as well as with private ownership, and has been displayed at many of the world’s leading automotive exhibitions over the years. An overall spectacular one-off, and a car that you simply can’t compare to anything else! What do you think of the one-of-a-kind Ghia Streamline X ‘Gilda’, should it be under consideration for one of the greatest concept designs of all time?
How many made? 1
Engine: AiResearch Jet A-1 Fuel-Burning, Single-Stage Gas Turbine With Integral Front Gear Reduction Drive - 70hp
Debut: Salone di Torino in the year 1955
Top speed: 140mph (theoretical)
0-60: n/a
Photo Credit: @carguy.ryan
Research: @rarecarsonly