The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The Chrysler K-310: the first official Ghia prototype.
The Chrysler K-310 was a groundbreaking concept car introduced in 1951 by the American automaker Chrysler. At its unveiling, then-president K.T. Keller enthusiastically declared that the K-310 prototype opened “new horizons for the future.” Designed by Virgil Exner, Chrysler’s forward-thinking design director, the K-310 showcased a modern and elegant aesthetic that blended American and European influences. To bring this visionary concept to life, Chrysler collaborated with Ghia of Turin, a renowned Italian coachbuilder. Ghia had previously constructed the Plymouth XX-500 in 1950, marking the start of a fruitful partnership that would produce a series of Italian-crafted concept cars for Chrysler. The K-310 became the second in this impressive lineup. The car’s name held special significance: the “K” honored Keller, Chrysler’s president, while “310” referred to the power of its 331 cubic inch V8 engine. Although the engine’s potential output was ambitious, the stock version ultimately produced only 180 horsepower. Aesthetically, the K-310 reflected European styling cues, including smooth, integrated, and gracefully curved rear fenders, while its bold front grille paid homage to distinctly American design. The car’s striking appearance and innovative design were well received, prompting Chrysler and Ghia to develop a convertible version, the C-200, unveiled in 1952. Also designed by Virgil Exner, the C-200 exemplified the fusion of American power and Italian elegance. Beneath its sculpted exterior, the car retained the robust Chrysler V8 engine. The C-200’s interior exuded sophistication with its black leather upholstery, while the exterior showcased a unique two-tone paint scheme of pale green and black. Notably, the gun-sight taillight design introduced on the K-310 would later inspire production models within Chrysler’s lineup. Despite the acclaim received by the K-310 and its convertible counterpart, neither car progressed to full-scale production. Chrysler’s financial struggles at the time made such ventures impractical. Nonetheless, the Chrysler K-310 remains a symbol of bold innovation and international collaboration, demonstrating the brand’s willingness to explore new design frontiers and solidify Virgil Exner’s legacy as a visionary automotive designer.
There are in the history of companies, just as in the history of nations, certain fateful episodes, which have an influence on the course of events well in excess of their actual importance. Chrysler’s request to Ghia to build for them, to their design, a special body on a Plymouth chassis, is one of these episodes.
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