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Topic starter
14/01/2025 8:15 pm
Here is a Polaroid picture I found in my Dad's files probably taken during the set-up before the Chicago Automobile Show at the International Amphitheater in 1959. It shows a large model of the dreamcar concept DeSoto Celia. This idea car featured an opening bubble top, doors that retracted (under the car ?) and a cool but ominous central fin.
14/01/2025 9:20 pm
1960 Plymouth front fender styling cue??
Tony Perrone and Christopher Moroni reacted
Topic starter
14/01/2025 9:33 pm
Since I think it was an "idea" car, it could well have had features like that which partially may have influenced designs. Although, I think by about January, 1959 (about when I think Dad took this picture) the 1960 Plymouth with hints of this was already finalized.
But I believe the original Virgil Exner "S-Series" Chrysler Corp automobiles with features that hinted at this was still viable in it's original form.
15/01/2025 1:41 am
priceless photo, thanks Mike
Topic starter
15/01/2025 2:27 am
You're welcome ! I wonder what the history was behind this dreamcar replica ? We know the incredible story behind the fate of the beautiful full-size Chrysler/DeSoto Norseman dreamcars from Virgil Exner. 
Tony Perrone and Christopher Moroni reacted
15/01/2025 5:40 am
Pretty neat DeSoto scale model concept that I've never seen before. Here's a link with a bit more info: Fuel Cell Dreams: The 1959 DeSoto Cella I - Mac's Motor City GarageMac's Motor City Garage
Tony Perrone and michaeldetorrice reacted
15/01/2025 7:00 am
Your Dad's files are such an automotive treasure Mike. Thanks so much for sharing all of them with us!
Christopher Moroni and michaeldetorrice reacted
Topic starter
15/01/2025 7:03 am
Pretty cool info about this DeSoto dreamcar ! The power system was certainly unique and one can see this one had two fins part way back. Perhaps if DeSoto had stayed around and it became the basis for a low production vehicle, it might for some time use a proven Adventurer V-8 and a few other already known features...... at least for the first few few years as possibly a limited production "halo" vehicle. Too bad only a 3/8 model was built, although then it might have to be powered by a real engine. Also, it is a Cella rather than Celia as I assumed, lol.
Christopher Moroni and Tony Perrone reacted
Topic starter
15/01/2025 7:07 am
You are welcome, Tony. By the way my Dad's name was Tony (aka Anthony) DeTorrice. And Anthony is my middle name, lol !
Christopher Moroni and Tony Perrone reacted
15/01/2025 7:09 am
You are welcome, Tony. By the way my Dad's name was Tony (aka Anthony) DeTorrice. And Anthony is my middle name, lol !
Christopher Moroni and michaeldetorrice reacted