An American company, Dual Motors, built 117 Ghia-bodied GT cars based on the Chrysler Firearrow design from 1956 through 1958. But when Ghia designed a new, sleeker body, then dropped in the Chrysler 383 (6.4 liter) V-8 in 1960, the result was badged as the Ghia 6.4L. Dual Motors was the importer. Frank Sinatra bought the first one in this country, and everyone who was anyone in Hollywood had to have one. As if the car wasn’t unique enough, Sinatra (and eight other owners, including fellow Rat Packers Dean Martin and Peter Lawford) had his Ghia mildly customized by George Barris with oval headlights, a smaller grille, and a black leather interior. So, this isn’t Frank’s car. But it is a beautifully made and very accurate miniature of the stock Ghia 6.4L. Its high-gloss black paint is literally perfect, and every piece of trim, including the multi-color Ghia badge, is done with either plated or photo-etched parts. Scale fidelity and workmanship are as good as it gets; lots of flush-fitted butyrate glazing makes it easier to see the accurate upholstery and fitted luggage. The dash and its detailed instruments match photos, though at least some cars had bright metal instrument panels. The sleek shape is exactly right from all angles, as are the dimensions. Hooray for Hollywood — and thanks to JMModelautos.com for providing this sample. —Wayne Moyer
1:43 | $95.99
