1963 Chrysler Gas Turbine Sedan

01

Artifact Overview

Many companies experimented with gas turbine cars after World War II. But only Chrysler actually put them into the public's hands. In 1963, Chrysler lent 50 of these head turners to potential customers to get real-world feedback. Users loved the low maintenance and lack of vibration but complained about sluggish acceleration and poor fuel economy. Rising gasoline prices ultimately killed the turbine dream.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Automobile

Date Made

1963

Creator Notes

Body built by Ghia of Turin, Italy; turbine engine and chassis built by Chrysler Corporation.

Location

at Henry Ford Museum in Driving America

Object ID

66.52.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Chrysler Corporation.

Material

Metal
Glass (Material)
Leather
Rubber (Material)
Cloth

Color

Copper (Color)
Orange (Color)
Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 53.5 in
Width: 72.9 in
Length: 201.6 in
Wheelbase: 110 in
Weight: 3900 lbs

Inscriptions

Side panels: turbine Rear: CHRYSLER / CORPORATION

Specifications

Make & Model: 1963 Chrysler gas turbine sedan
Maker: Chrysler Corporation, Detroit, Michigan
Engine: regenerative gas turbine
Transmission: 3-speed automatic
Height: 53.5 inches
Wheelbase: 110 inches
Width: 73 inches
Overall length: 201.5 inches
Weight: 3900 pounds
Horsepower: 130 at 3600 revolutions per minute, output shaft
Pounds per horsepower: 30