The 1958 Dual-Ghia Convertible remains one of the most exclusive and culturally significant automobiles of the postwar era, a product of Detroit engineering and Italian coachbuilding artistry. This specific example, Chassis 174, was the 74th unit produced and boasts an exceptional provenance, having been delivered new to scientist and philanthropist Arthur Metcalf. It remained in his care for three decades before joining the world-renowned Robert M. Lee collection. Now appearing at Indy 2026, this highly original survivor serves as a rolling testament to the “Rat Pack” era of automotive glamour. It is a rare opportunity to acquire a documented masterpiece with a direct link to the golden age of hand-built luxury.
Hand-Crafted Ghia coachwork and Intact Brightwork
The visual character of the Dual-Ghia is defined by its low-slung, elegant silhouette, which was hand-formed by Carrozzeria Ghia in Turin before being mated to a modified Dodge chassis in Detroit. Finished in a striking Red, this convertible retains its original wheel covers and brightwork, which remain in impressive, intact condition. The design successfully blends American proportions with European finesse, characterized by its subtle tail fins and a refined front fascia. Because these cars were produced in such limited numbers, seeing one in such a preserved state is a rarity. This car’s exterior tells a story of careful ownership and long-term preservation within prestigious collections.
Preserved Black and White Leather and Pushbutton Technology
Inside the cabin, the environment is a sophisticated blend of monochrome luxury, featuring a preserved Black and White leather interior that highlights the car’s dual-nation heritage. The dashboard is a technical centerpiece, equipped with electric windows and the period-correct Town & Country pushbutton radio. Every tactile element, from the steering wheel to the switchgear, reflects the high-quality materials required for a car that was once the preferred choice of Hollywood royalty. The cockpit feels intimate yet substantial, offering a level of hand-finished detail that was simply unavailable on standard domestic production lines of the late 1950s.
315 CI Hemi V-8 Authority and Automatic Smoothness
Mechanical propulsion is provided by a 315 CI Hemi V-8 engine, a powerplant that offers the legendary durability and torque associated with Chrysler’s first-generation hemispherical cylinder heads. This engine utilizes a single carburetor setup to deliver a narrative of smooth, effortless power that is perfectly suited for a high-end grand tourer. The V-8 is paired with an automatic transmission, ensuring a relaxed driving experience that prioritizes composure over raw aggression. While horsepower and torque were competitive for the era, the real appeal of the Dual-Ghia drivetrain lies in its reliability and the substantial feel it provides on the open road.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 315 CI Hemi V-8 |
| Induction | Single Carburetor |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Chassis Number | 174 (74th Produced) |
| Exterior Color | Red |
| Interior Material | Black and White Leather |
| Special Equipment | Electric Windows / Town & Country Radio |
A Provenance-Rich Asset in the Global Market
In the landscape of high-end collectibles, the 1958 Dual-Ghia Convertible occupies a unique selling point as a vehicle that was more expensive and rarer than a contemporary Cadillac or Lincoln. Compared to other coachbuilt specials of the era, the Dual-Ghia benefits from a robust American drivetrain, making it far more maintainable than its European counterparts. The history file for Chassis 174 is particularly extensive, including original Dual Motors paperwork and drive reports from the Lee collection. As only about 117 of these cars were produced in total, documented survivors with clear ownership chains like this one represent the pinnacle of mid-century automotive investment.
The Enduring Legacy of the Arthur Metcalf Ghia
The 1958 Dual-Ghia Convertible is more than just a car; it is a symbol of a time when the world’s most talented engineers and designers collaborated without compromise. It offers its next caretaker a rare combination of documented history and preserved originality, ensuring its place as a centerpiece in any significant automotive collection.
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Source: mecum.com
