The 1950s were a golden era for the automotive industry, characterized by America’s massive, luxurious automobiles with powerful V8 engines and Europe’s creation of some of the most beautiful sports cars ever seen. Among the remarkable vehicles of this decade is the unique 1956 Chrysler 300B Boano, a true masterpiece of international collaboration.
A Vision of Elegance: Commissioned by Gianni Agnelli
The story of the Chrysler 300B Boano begins with Gianni Agnelli, who later became the president of Fiat in 1966. Agnelli commissioned this one-off vehicle, combining American engineering with Italian design. Felice Mario Boano, a renowned coachbuilder who had founded his own company after leaving Carrozzeria Ghia, was given the task of crafting the car’s body.
Distinctive British-Inspired Design
Boano chose a British-style design for the Chrysler 300B, which required shortening its wheelbase from 126 to 119 inches. This modification resulted in a vehicle that bore little resemblance to the original 300B. The long hood, short rear deck, and muscular rear haunches gave the car a sophisticated look that appealed to European tastes.
A Wild Interior with a Unique Layout
The interior of the 300B Boano was as innovative as its exterior. Boano designed a three-seat layout featuring a single sliding rear seat that could be used for luggage space when not occupied. The bespoke dashboard, crafted from rosewood, and an electric sunroof added to the car’s luxurious and customized feel.
Preserving American Power
Despite the extensive modifications to the car’s design and interior, Boano did not alter the drivetrain. The vehicle retained its powerful 354-cubic-inch FirePower V8 engine, which delivered 340 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque. An optional 10:1 compression ratio could boost this to 355 horsepower. Agnelli’s car was equipped with a three-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission.
From Agnelli to Restoration: The Journey of the 300B Boano
Once the coupe was completed, Agnelli, feeling his position at Fiat necessitated driving company vehicles, never pushed the Chrysler. Instead, he passed it on to his younger brother, Umberto, who took the car to France. There, it remained for thirty years before reaching the United States, where it underwent a comprehensive restoration.
Showstopper and Auction Star
The Chrysler 300B Boano dazzled at numerous car shows across the United States, winning multiple beauty awards. In 2023, this unique automobile was sold for the first time in years, fetching an impressive $1.1 million. For comparison, a standard 1956 Chrysler 300B typically costs around $53,000, with the most expensive example previously selling for $145,600.
Conclusion
The 1956 Chrysler 300B Boano is a testament to the innovative spirit and international collaboration of the 1950s automotive industry. Its combination of American power and Italian design makes it a unique and treasured piece of automotive history.
Source: autoevolution
