Posted on 05/14/2012 9:59:59 PM PDT by nickcarraway
It's no secret famed Rat Packer Dean Martin is still about as cool as it gets, so it only makes sense he would choose a vehicle as cool and unique as a 1962 Ghia L6.4 as a mode of transportation.
After getting his hands on the car, Martin decided his Ghia—one of 26 L6.4s built—still needed a little bit more unique personality and enlisted famed custom car builder George Barris to add a few subtle touches. Whether you love the styling of the Ghia or hate it, it's impossible to dispute it's one of a kind nature.
Under the hood of the Ghia is a 335hp Chrysler 383ci V-8 which like the rest of the car is original from when Martin owned it. You read it right, this Ghia has a pampered existence to thank for the fact it is a completely original car—beyond the Barris custom treatment of course.
Martin's Ghia is currently being offered for sale by Hyman Cars LTD—a classic car dealer well known for their unique and rare inventory—at the price of $199,500. While it certainly isn't cheap, it's rather hard to put a price on feeling like a member of the Rat Pack every time you get behind the wheel.
I am also a history buff and love to see neat little tidbits and trivia. Yes, it’s well done.
Yup and it was turned down even though Gleason was “The Greatest”
I drove it’s little sister, Karmen, from Sf to LA and back. It’s convertible top blew off on route 5, but, otherwise, it was fun
RIP Dino, I still love you very much.
Earlier this evening I was watching Dean Martin Roasts on
Youtube while watching a special on Johnny Carson.
I then saw a great clip of Dean Martin, George
Goble, Bob Hope on the Johnny Carson Show. Dino was
flicking his cig. ashes into George Gobel’s drink.
The dialogue was spontaneous and hilarious.
Great stuff!
“A thing of beauty, but imagine getting parts for it if you actually drove it.......My greatest fear of getting a classic anything.”
I have a 57 Bel Air and 67 Camaro. Easy to get parts.
yes, me too
8/26/09: Bonhams - 1962 Ghia 6.4L Coupe – Sold for $117,000 Owned by Gary Morton (Lucille Ball’s second husband) and later modified for its second owner Dean Martin by the King of the Kustomizers, George Barris. Sold without reserve. $117,000
http://www.sportscardigest.com/quail-lodge-auction-results-bonhams/
When I was a little kid my Dad bought a ‘57 Bel Air. I still remember the “New car smell”. LOL
What’s the mileage?
Extended warranty?
One of my all-time favorites!
I have to be honest. That is one ugly car.
Those were just some westerns that he did.
bfl
Thanks for the reminder;) My husband bought this two-seater soon after we were married so we wouldn’t have room for his mother;)
I don’t understand why the Ghia is considered an American car - it was a VW.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volkswagen_Karmann_Ghia
The Pawn Stars won’t be buying it nor will Les at Hardcore Pawn unless they can get it for about $50K.
'73 Pontiac Gran Prix
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