1941 Chrysler Thunderbolt Concept Coupe

Chrysler produced five Thunderbolts in 1940, four of which survive. Designed by Alex Tremulis, they featured a stunning streamlined full-envelope body, an electrically operated retractable hardtop, hidden headlights, hydraulic window lifts, push-button doors, and back-lit gauges. They were first shown at the New York Auto Show in October 1940. The Thunderbolts caravanned across the United States, stopping at Chrysler dealerships along the way and attracting tremendous crowds. This particular example was sold to the actor Bruce Cabot in March of 1941. In 1960, the car was sold to Bill Harrah. The present owner purchased the car at the Harrah's Auto Auction in 1985. In 1954, a Chrysler 331 cubic-inch Hemi engine was installed by B&H Motors of San Francisco, and the Thunderbolt engine was installed in a 1932 Chrysler CP-8 convertible sedan. The 1932 Chrysler was subsequently purchased and the Thunderbolt was reunited with its original engine.