For Sale: 1957 Dual-Ghia Convertible in Auburn, Indiana

1 of only 117 Dual Ghias produced and fewer than 32 known to still exist Comprehensively restored and draped in an elegant burgundy A lavish Ghia body paired with American V-8 Hemi power Factory power steering, power brakes, power windows and a host of other amenities The car of the rich and famous, such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Richard Nixon Only 117 Dual Ghias were produced and a mere 32 are known to still exist today. 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. 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 total production. 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 Frank Sinatra and his Rat Pack. Offered from a noted private collection, is this comprehensively restored 1957 Dual Ghia Convertible that's draped in the classy and sophisticated shade of burgundy, a desirable color to adorn these seldom seen automobiles. Complementing the Ghia-designed body, is a tightly fitted tan convertible top and chrome wire wheels wrapped in whitewall tires. Inside, the fully restored cabin features soft to the touch leather with maroon piping that matches the dashboard. Interior items include a correct Town and County AM radio, engine-turned dash, and power windows that operate correctly. More than just a stylish statement on wheels, power comes from a Dodge D500 Hemi V-8 engine that produces 315 horsepower and is backed by a Chrysler Powerflite automatic transmission. Built for the rich and famous, it of course comes factory-equipped with power steering and power brakes. A true symbol of exclusivity and built for the world's elite when new, this beautifully restored Dual Ghia remains every bit as exclusive today and represents a rare opportunity to acquire 1 of a mere 32 examples to survive.