The 1957 Chrysler Dart concept — also known as the Chrysler Dart Diablo — was one of the most radical and luxurious dream cars of the 1950s, a true statement of Virgil Exner’s “Forward Look” design philosophy. Built by Ghia of Italy, it was based on the earlier 1956 Chrysler Dart but evolved into a more elaborate and refined showpiece.
Aerodynamic Design
The Jet Age Influence Tailfins dramatically flared outward with aircraft-like rear contours, Chrome bullet taillights and an “afterburner” exhaust theme. The Wraparound Windshield swept dramatically into the body sides. The Hardtop-Style Convertible, though technically a convertible, the car featured a solid, sleek roofline and tonneau cover. It boasted sleek, futuristic styling with elements like a low and wide stance, a dramatic hood scoop, and prominent tail fins, all contributing to its aerodynamic look. These design cues embodied the Space Age fascination with speed and elegance.
Luxury Interior
Inside, the Super Dart 400 featured a flowing center console and four individual bucket seats trimmed in black and white leather, creating a luxurious and comfortable environment. Innovative Features included several advanced features for the era, such as a push-button Torqueflite automatic transmission, air conditioning, power windows, and Chrysler’s Highway Hi-Fi record player.
Powertrain
The powerful Dart concept was powered by a 392-cubic-inch “Power Pack Hemi” V8 engine, and this power output gave the concept car its name. This engine featured two 4-barrel carburetors and a 10:1 compression ratio. The 392 HEMI was Chrysler’s top-of-the-line engine in 1957, also used in the Chrysler 300C, Imperial, and some DeSoto models. With this engine, the Dart Diablo was not just a showpiece — it was a seriously powerful grand tourer, easily capable of 120+ mph, if ever driven in anger.
The 1957 Chrysler Dart Concept was equipped with Chrysler’s then-advanced TorqueFlite 3-Speed Automatic Transmission. The TorqueFlite was one of the most advanced automatic transmissions of its time. It offered fast, smooth gear changes with excellent durability — crucial for a heavy, powerful show car like the Dart. The push-button controls enhanced the futuristic feel of the concept, fitting perfectly with its Jet Age theme.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Designer | Virgil Exner (Chrysler Styling Chief) |
| Coachbuilder | Carrozzeria Ghia (Turin, Italy) |
| Body Style | Convertible with a retractable hardtop-style roof |
| Engine | 392 cu in Chrysler HEMI V8 (dual carbs) |
| Horsepower | ~375 hp (estimated) |
| Transmission | TorqueFlite automatic |
| Chassis | Based on Chrysler 300-series frame |
Two-Tone Paint: Red and black combinations were common, with heavy use of chrome and polished aluminum details
Chrysler 392 HEMI V8
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 392 cubic inches (6.4 liters) |
| Configuration | OHV V8, hemispherical combustion chambers |
| Power Output | Estimated 375–390 horsepower (depending on carburetion and tuning) |
| Carburetors | Likely dual four-barrel (2×4 bbl) carburetors |
| Fuel System | High-performance mechanical fuel pump |
| Exhaust | Dual exhaust with custom-fitted chrome tips, integrated into the rear bumper design |
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