1962 Ghia L6.4 Hardtop Coupe

The Dual-Ghia was an Italian-American hybrid and the brainchild of Eugene Casaroll. Paul Farago, the American agent for Ghia, was also actively involved in the production of the Dual Ghia. In many ways, the car was a success. They were luxurious, extravagant, attractive, and elegant with a production line that ranged from Detroit to Milan and back. They carried a sticker price well out of the means of the average individual, selling for $7,500 which was around $1,000 more than the Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz.

In 1960, Farago arranged with Ghia to create a new coupe concept. The result was a stylish and luxurious car outfitted with nearly every imaginable amenity including fitted luggage. The public response was enthusiastic and the car was put into production. The L6.4 was built atop a custom chassis and used fewer off-the-shelf parts than the earlier Dual Ghia had. Eugene Casaroll decided not to participate in the production, mainly because of health issues, a need to focus on his other businesses, and concerns about the car's high price tag.

The L6.4 was made even more luxurious than its siblings and offered for $13,500, nearly doubling the price of the Dual Ghia. Without the backing of Casaroll, the car was never badged as a Dual Ghia. It was built and sold by Carrozzeria Ghia with Farago acting as the American agent. A total of around 25 examples were created. The list of owners includes Frank Sinatra, Lucille Ball, and Dean Martin.

This vehicle was the one owned by the legendary Dean Martin. It has never been restored and retains most of its original paint, interior chrome, and trim. Dean Martin was famous in the music industry, having recorded more than 500 songs. he was one of America's top performers in films, nightclubs, and in the recording studio. Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin had a comedy act and soon became the hottest act in America during the early 1950s.

This 1962 Ghia Coupe was brought to the 2007 Monterey Sports & Classic Car Auction presented by RM Auctions, where it had an estimated value of $175,000 - $250,000. Those estimates proved accurate as the lot was sold for $181,500.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jun 2018