Lot 7779: 1952 Chrysler Styling Special by Ghia

Only one 1952 Chrysler Styling Special by Ghia was made.

The 1952 Styling Special (chassis C51834214) is a true one-off prototype that debuted at the 1952 Paris Salon de l’Automobile. Multiple authoritative sources confirm this car was unique:

• RM Sotheby’s (a major classic car auction house) describes it as “The original ‘Chrysler Special;’” and notes it’s “The only example built on a shortened 119-in.-wheelbase chassis” and “The sole Special with a fastback roofline”

• The Classic.com listing explicitly states: “While several Specials were built in various forms, this prototype example remains a true one-off,” featuring unique details like pushbutton door handles, three-passenger seating, and a shortened chassis

Other later “Chrysler Ghia Specials” were produced in 1953 and beyond in small numbers (reportedly 18 cars total), but these had different body styles (notchback vs. the 1952’s fastback) and were built on standard wheelbases. The 1952 Styling Special stands alone as a singular prototype that launched Virgil Exner’s breakthrough collaboration with Carrozzeria Ghia.

You can see this exact car here: https://classic.com/veh/1952-chrysler-styling-special-by-ghia-c51834214-n1kO1Vp/

Is there anything else you’d like to know about this unique piece of automotive history?