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Topic starter
06/12/2025 2:21 pm
GM FIREBIRD EXPERIMENTALS. 1954 to 1959.
These three GM show cars were at the Cobble Beach Concours d' Elegance in Canada a year ago.
Looking back, the 1950s was a decade of limitless ideas and bold, confident designs. The jet age had arrived, and it was influencing everything. The automotive world was especially influenced. Some iconic models were launched during the 50s decade
While the gas turbine idea was a technological dead end, the styling and technological innovations featured in these three concepts certainly influenced GM's models well into the 1960s.
1954 Firebird I
Engine. Gas Turbine
Power 370 hp
Curb Weight 2,800 lbs
Seating 1
1956 Firebird II
Engine Gas Turbine
Power 200 hp
Bodywork Titanium
Seating 4
Suspension All independent
1958 Firebird III
Engine Gas Turbine + Internal Combustion
Power 225 hp (Turbine) 10 hp (gas engine)
Bodywork Fiberglass
Seating 2
06/12/2025 2:29 pm
I used to have actual B&W concept pictures of these and Firebird III was my favorite.
What a cool reminder - THANKS!
06/12/2025 2:41 pm
Very cool. I had a chance to see these at a Concours show a few years ago.
John Merritt
South Lyon, Michigan - USA
06/12/2025 2:47 pm
Far out designs...good going David!
John Bono
North Jersey
06/12/2025 2:59 pm
What an amazing display, glad to see your pics, David. These always remind me that GM was once a global super-power; they could do no wrong - or so it seemed. When you have endless cashflow, dream/concept vehicles such as these were commonplace, not to mention all the complimentary marketing.
How many richly colored full-length-feature promotional films did GM produce during the 1950's, right?
06/12/2025 4:52 pm
love 50s, 60s concept cars, thanks David