Ghia Mini Max

The Ghia Mini Max is an intriguing concept car that embodies the innovative spirit of Ghia‘s design philosophy. Though the exact date of its creation remains uncertain, its aerodynamic styling hints at its development during the era when Ghia was experimenting with the futuristic Probe series. This period was marked by a focus on streamlining and aerodynamic efficiency, traits clearly echoed in the Mini Max’s compact and sleek form. Constructed primarily of fiberglass, the Ghia Mini Max features a lightweight yet robust structure. The bodywork is both unique and functional, though notably, only the driver’s door is operational, emphasizing a minimalist and purposeful design approach. The glazing is made from Plexiglas, with the side windows attached to the frames using exposed screws, giving the car an industrial, prototype-like aesthetic. The car sits on 12-inch cast alloy wheels fitted with 155SR-12 tires, giving it a nimble and compact stance. This choice of wheels and tires is consistent with the car’s small and lightweight nature, designed for agility rather than outright speed. The overall compact dimensions and fiberglass construction suggest that the Ghia Mini Max was designed with urban mobility and efficiency in mind. Inside, the Ghia Mini Max does not compromise on comfort despite its conceptual roots. The cabin is fully upholstered in plush red velour with contrasting grey carpet and trim, creating a retro yet stylish interior environment. The seating configuration includes two bucket-style front seats that are both comfortable and moderately bolstered, suitable for short commutes or city driving. Additionally, there is a bench-style rear seat, likely with a foldable backrest to allow for increased cargo space – an unusual and practical feature for such a compact concept. One of the more striking interior details is the single-spoke steering wheel, which lends a futuristic feel. Complementing this is a formed clear plastic dummy panel mounted to the steering column, perhaps intended as a placeholder for a more developed dashboard design or simply as a stylistic element. The Ghia Mini Max’s unusual design choices and compact proportions reflect Ghia’s experimental phase, focusing on combining practical urban motoring with an avant-garde aesthetic. The car’s blend of aerodynamic styling and functional innovation makes it a fascinating piece of automotive history, showcasing Ghia’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new concepts within the realm of small, efficient vehicles.