The 1956 Chrysler Norseman was lost at sea. (FCA US photos)
The Chryser Norseman was a four-seat fastback concept coupe built in 1956. Although designed by Chrysler’s stylists, the actual construction was contracted out to the Italian coach-building firm of Carrozzeria Ghia. The concept car was lost during the sinking of the SS Andrea Doria.
According to Wikipedia, “Chrysler wanted a fully drivable vehicle, not just a rolling mockup, so all normal systems for the powertrain, braking, suspension, were installed. Power was from a modified 5.4-liter, 331 cubic inch Chrysler Hemi engine producing 235 hp with a pushbutton-controlled Powerflite automatic transmission.
“The body panels on the car were made of aluminum with “a sharply sloping hood, upswept tail fins and a covered, smooth underbody for aerodynamic efficiency.” The Norseman combined a “sweeping fastback rear end design and Chrysler’s own take on a tailfin and bumper treatment.”
