#ghia

Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Cabriolet

By 1976, Ghia’s position with Ford’s multinational operation was well established, and the Prima concept was designed in Dearborn and built in Turin by Ghia based on the first-generation Fiesta platform. The proposal was for a modular vehicle with interchanging roof sections that would transform the shape and functionality of the car. It could evolve from a pickup into a station wagon, fastback coupe, or two-door notchback.

Designed by Tom Tjaarda after Ghia was acquired by Ford in 1973, the Mustela II was a development of his earlier Mustela concept. It was a proposal for a second-generation Capri, but Ford had other plans for the Capri II.

Maserati Ghibli 4.9 SS Coupé 1971 by Ghia. - source SpeedHolics.

To celebrate their first year under Ford’s control, Ghia presented their Coins Concept at the 44th Geneva Motor Show in 1974. Designed by Tom Tjaarda, it was a radically futuristic projection for what a Ford sports coupé (ie a Capri, photographed with the prototype) might look like by the year 2000. Features included a single rear door giving access to a three-seat cabin with a central driving position. The car’s name, “Coins,” was inspired by the song “Three Coins” from the 1954 movie “Three Coins in the Fountain,” about an American woman working in Rome who finds love with an Italian man after throwing coins into the Trevi Fountain. 

Renault 4CV Jolly 1961 by Ghia. - source Amazing Classic Cars.

Ghia L 6.4 Coupe 1962. - source Amazing Classic Cars.

Dodge Firearrow III Ghia Exner 1954