Ghia: Masterpieces of Style

The Ghia of Turin was a company active from the 1920s to the 1970s, responsible for some of the most important models in automotive history. It produced opulent cars inspired by the styling canons in vogue in the United States, such as the Fiat 508 Sport Spider (1934), Alfa Romeo 6C 2500s, and 1900 SS Abarth (1954). The Sixties were no less prolific, with further classics such as the Fiat 2300 S (1960), De Tomaso Mangusta and Pantera (1966 and 1970), and the immortal Ghibli from 1966.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 25 February 2022
Publisher: Giorgio Nada Editore

An invaluable book that delves into a relatively unknown but extensive chapter in the history of design, shedding light on the remarkable story of Ghia of Turin. This esteemed company was active from the 1920s and left an indelible mark on automotive history, producing some of the most significant and iconic models. Ghia's designs were often characterized by boldness and a penchant for setting trends, making them truly remarkable.

Tracing the history of Ghia unveils a series of models that evoke a profound sense of appeal. Among these, the Fiat 508 Sport Spider (1934) stands out as a masterpiece, showcasing the company's innovative styling. Additionally, various Alfa Romeo 6C 2500s and the 1900 SS Abarth (1954) exemplify Ghia's ability to create cars that are both visually stunning and mechanically impressive. Furthermore, Ghia's portfolio includes a number of unique Ferraris from the same decade, further showcasing their expertise in automotive design.

A decade that was of paramount importance to Ghia was the 1950s, during which they produced a series of opulent cars inspired by the styling canons prevalent in the United States at the time. These cars combined American elegance with Italian craftsmanship, resulting in vehicles that were both luxurious and visually striking. In addition to these opulent creations, Ghia also engaged in styling exercises such as the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (1955), which showcased their versatility and willingness to experiment with different design philosophies.

The Sixties were another prolific period for Ghia, with the introduction of further classics such as the Fiat 2300 S (1960), the De Tomaso Mangusta and Pantera (1966 and 1970), and the immortal Ghibli from 1966. These models continued to push the boundaries of automotive design, combining elegance, performance, and innovation in ways that have since become legendary.

As with other Italian coachbuilders, Ghia faced a period of crisis in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The company changed hands on several occasions before being acquired by Ford in 1974. However, under Ford's ownership, Ghia continued to produce exceptional cars, blending Italian craftsmanship with American engineering to create vehicles that were both stylish and technologically advanced.

In conclusion, Ghia of Turin is a company that has left an indelible mark on the history of automotive design. Their commitment to boldness, innovation, and craftsmanship has produced a series of models that continue to inspire and captivate enthusiasts worldwide. From the Fiat 508 Sport Spider to the Ghibli, Ghia's legacy is a testament to the power of great design and the enduring impact it can have on the automotive industry.

Weight: 1270g
Dimension: 254 x 278 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788879117227