Dual-Ghia Firebomb

Vehicle Overview

The Dual-Ghia Firebomb: After Chrysler Corporation chose not to move forward with the production of the Dodge Firearrow concept car, Gene Casaroll, a prominent Detroit industrialist and entrepreneur, saw an opportunity. Through his company, Dual Motors, Casaroll acquired the design and production rights from Chrysler, leading to the creation of the remarkable Dual-Ghia Firebomb. This innovative vehicle was designed to accommodate four adult passengers comfortably and featured a fully folding top with a glass back window and glass side windows, offering both style and functionality. The Firebomb served as the prototype for the limited production Chrysler-powered Dual-Ghia. It was introduced to the world on June 28, 1955, at an exclusive event for Detroit’s automotive press corps held at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, located just north of Detroit. This unveiling marked the beginning of a new era in automotive design and luxury. Between 1956 and 1958, a total of 104 Dual-Ghias were produced, including two coupes with distinctive fiberglass hardtops. The Dual-Ghia convertible was priced at $7,646, a considerable sum at the time, reflecting its premium build and luxurious features. The name “Dual-Ghia” honored both Casaroll’s Dual Motors and Italy’s renowned Ghia Coachbuilder, symbolizing the perfect fusion of American innovation and Italian craftsmanship. The Dual-Ghia quickly became a coveted status symbol, particularly among Hollywood’s elite. Its sleek design and exclusivity attracted a roster of high-profile owners, including entertainment icons such as Frank Sinatra, Debbie Reynolds, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. Owning a Dual-Ghia was more than just possessing a car; it was a statement of sophistication and affluence. In summary, the Dual-Ghia Firebomb’s journey from concept to reality under Gene Casaroll’s visionary leadership highlights a unique chapter in automotive history. Its blend of luxury, design, and exclusivity ensured its place as an iconic symbol of mid-20th-century glamour and innovation.

Photo courtesy of Blackhawk Collection