Plymouth Asimmetrica Roadster

The Plymouth Asimmetrica Roadster designed by Virgil Exner, is a concept automobile constructed in 1961 through the collaboration of Chrysler Corporation and Carrozzeria Ghia of Turin. Conceived as a refinement of the earlier Plymouth XNR show car, the Asimmetrica retained key stylistic elements of its predecessor while incorporating concessions to usability and potential production feasibility. Though it never entered serial manufacture, the model exemplifies the mid-century transatlantic design dialogue between American industrial ambitions and Italian coachbuilding artistry. The Asimmetrica was built upon the unibody platform of the Plymouth Valiant, employing the manufacturer’s 2.8-liter inline-six engine. This powerplant was outfitted with the Hyper-Pak performance package, including a four-barrel Carter AFB carburetor and cast-iron split headers. Output was rated at approximately 101 horsepower, transmitted through a three-speed manual gearbox to the rear axle. The chassis and drivetrain components were largely retained from standard Valiant models, underscoring the concept’s foundation in practical engineering. The exterior form, executed entirely by hand at Ghia, presented a softened interpretation of the XNR’s asymmetrical design language. Notable visual elements included an offset hood scoop, an abbreviated dorsal fin located behind the driver’s seat, and revised front-end treatment featuring headlights mounted in the fenders and relocated turn indicators. A full-width windshield, functional doors, and a folding fabric roof provided further concessions to road-going expectations. The cabin was finished to a high standard, featuring full leather upholstery, deep carpeting, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and polished metal trim. Instrumentation and switchgear were integrated within a streamlined dashboard, reflecting the vehicle’s dual function as both stylistic exploration and operable motor car. The Asimmetrica made appearances at the 1961 Turin and Geneva motor shows. It was subsequently acquired by French novelist Georges Simenon, who retained ownership for a number of years. Although discussions regarding limited production were undertaken, no such series materialized, and only a single confirmed example is known to have been completed. As a singular expression of asymmetrical automotive design, the Plymouth Asimmetrica Roadster remains a notable artifact within the broader history of concept vehicles. It embodies a convergence of mid-century experimentalism, cross-cultural aesthetic exchange, and the persistent interplay between form and function in automotive design.