Chrysler Norseman

The 1956 Chrysler Norseman was a one-off experimental four-seat fastback coupé designed by Chrysler under the direction of Virgil Exner and built by Carrozzeria Ghia in Turin, Italy. Developed within Chrysler’s Forward Look programme, its styling was entrusted to William “Billie” Brownlie, while Ghia was responsible for the construction of the prototype.

The Norseman’s principal innovation was its cantilevered roof, which eliminated conventional front roof pillars to provide an exceptionally wide panoramic view. The structure was supported by steel members extending forward from the rear body and incorporated an electrically operated sliding glass panel. Sergio Coggiola, then working at Ghia, contributed to the complex coachbuilding work required to realise the design.

The aluminium body featured an elongated bonnet, low fastback profile, concealed headlights, restrained tailfins and smooth, uninterrupted surfaces. Finished in two-tone metallic green, the car was equipped with a Chrysler V8 engine and a pushbutton-operated PowerFlite automatic transmission. Construction required approximately 15 months.

Following completion, the sole prototype was loaded aboard the Italian ocean liner SS Andrea Doria for shipment to the United States, where it was scheduled to make its public debut. On 25 July 1956, the liner collided with the Swedish ship Stockholm off Nantucket and sank on 26 July, taking the Norseman with it. The automobile was never publicly exhibited or recovered.