Dual-Ghia (United States)

Dual Motors Corporation was an American automobile manufacturer based in Detroit, Michigan, that operated from 1955 to 1963. The company was founded by Eugene Casaroll and became known for producing the Dual-Ghia, a luxury sports sedan that attracted a celebrity clientele, including notable figures such as Frank Sinatra, Peter Lawford, and Eddie Fisher.

The origins of the Dual-Ghia can be traced back to a prototype known as the Dodge Firebomb, which was developed in 1955. This prototype utilized a modified Chrysler chassis and featured a body designed by the Italian coachbuilder Ghia. The production version of the Dual-Ghia was introduced in 1957, with modifications that made it wider and longer to accommodate four passengers. The engineering and production processes were overseen by Paul Farago, who played a significant role in the development of the vehicle.

The production models were characterized by their opulent design and powerful performance, equipped with Dodge V8 engines that produced up to 260 horsepower. Approximately 200 units of the initial model were sold, with the majority being convertibles, while only two coupes were produced. The frames for these vehicles were constructed in Detroit, then shipped to Ghia in Italy for bodywork, before returning to the United States for final assembly.

In the pursuit of innovation, several prototypes for a successor to the Dual-Ghia were created, leading to the development of the L6.4 model. This model featured a unibody frame built entirely at Ghia, utilizing 1960 Chrysler suspension and running gear. The L6.4 was designed as a fastback coupe with distinctive scooped taillights. However, after the prototype was completed, Casaroll withdrew from the project, resulting in Farago and Ghia producing only 26 additional L6.4 models, with only the prototype bearing the Dual-Ghia emblem.