From Jet Engines to City Streets: The Untold Story of Chrysler’s Turbine Cars

Few automotive stories blend aerospace technology and Italian artistry quite like Chrysler’s turbine car saga. Inspired by jet engines developed during World War II, Chrysler’s engineers set out to create a car powered by a smooth, high-speed turbine engine. This was no easy task, requiring revolutionary advances in materials science, manufacturing, and design.

The turbine engine itself was a masterpiece of precision engineering. Using investment casting, Chrysler produced components capable of withstanding temperatures exceeding 1,700°F, thanks to proprietary superalloys developed by metallurgists. The engine ran at speeds up to 44,000 rpm, delivering power smoothly and quietly, with fewer moving parts than a conventional piston engine.

To house this marvel, Chrysler partnered with the Italian design house Ghia, which handcrafted aluminum bodies with exquisite attention to detail. The cars featured copper-colored leather interiors, brushed aluminum dashboards with futuristic gauges, and innovative features like air-assisted brakes due to the turbine’s lack of engine vacuum.

The public user program was a bold experiment, loaning over 200 cars to drivers nationwide. These users experienced the turbine’s instant heat, smooth acceleration, and distinctive sound firsthand. However, they also encountered challenges like slow throttle response and limited fuel availability. The program provided invaluable insights into real-world turbine operation and consumer perceptions.

Though the program ended due to emissions regulations and economic pressures, the turbine car remains a symbol of innovation and design excellence. Its story is a testament to the possibilities unlocked when engineering meets artistry and ambition.

For more detailed explorations, consult resources from Hagerty, AutoNews, and SlashGear that document the technical and cultural journey of Chrysler’s turbine cars. 1 2 3