1963 Chrysler Gas Turbine Sedan
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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
Creators
Place of Creation
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
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