Tucked in a far corner of the New York auto show is this rare Chrysler Thunderbolt. It's an early concept car from an era when life-size concept cars were not common. Alex Tremulis was one of the designers, notable because he was responsible for the Tucker -- there are clearly similarities. Tremulis also worked with American Bantam and Crosley earlier...
The Thunderbolt has a power-folding hardtop, plus doors that open with the push of a button -- notice no door handles. There's also no grille, as air intakes are located below the front bumper.
This car is in nearly perfect condition; even the interior is spotless. Only five Thunderbolts were built, and four still exist. This one is on display in the LeMay museum in Tacoma, Washington. They have five other cars on display at the New York auto show. -- Brian Moody, Road Test Editor
estreka says:
04:18 PM, 03/20/08
That's really cool. The black seems to hide the design somewhat in that top photo, though.
ncross says:
05:03 PM, 03/20/08
would look good in silver
210delray says:
07:07 PM, 03/20/08
No grille -- I like it!
That dashboard material and color puts many current cars to shame also.
ateixeira says:
06:08 AM, 03/21/08
Reminds me of the grille-less Q45 that bombed badly her despite being a great car.
It lacks a face, an identity. Some styling cues are neat, the lack of door handles was especially forward-thinking, but a car needs a face!
briancam says:
05:11 PM, 03/21/08
Yes, the front looked like the back to me when i first saw it.