Chassis no. BS4030

273-cid, 235-hp OHV V-8 engine, three-speed Torqueflite transmission, torsion bar independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs and front disc, rear drum power hydraulic brakes. Wheelbase: 98-inches

The Ghia 450SS took its inspiration from Hollywood producer Burt Sugarman (Children of a Lesser God, The Newlywed Game). Sugarman had seen a Fiat-based Ghia GT on the 1960 European show circuit, and encouraged the coachbuilder to create a production model. Ghia had their designer Giorgietto Giugiaro work up a curvaceous steel body but Sugarman had a different vision for the mechanical systems.

The semi-monocoque body was given steel-tube underpinnings and Plymouth Barracuda suspension. The engine was Chrysler’s 273-cid small block “Commando” V-8 with Carter AFB four-barrel carburetor, driving through a Torqueflite automatic. Introduced at the 1966 Turin show, the 450SS had a price tag of $13,000 and was sold only through a single Beverly Hills dealership. Just 52 were built, of which perhaps half survive.

This Ghia 450SS convertible is gorgeous in medium maroon. It has a black canvas top and tan leather interior, the latter with matching dashboard. The car is sanitary throughout, with correct contours and excellent paint. The interior looks virtually new, with round Ghia gauges tastefully arrayed before the driver. The car has power steering, power brakes, a heater and windshield washers, but no radio or other entertainment system. A rare survivor of a very small constituency, this Ghia 450SS represents an excellent opportunity.