American automakers faced a critical challenge in the 1950s – making cars exciting again. Chrysler’s answer arrived in a burst of innovation called the Turbine Car. Its copper-colored body housed a jet engine instead of pistons. Engineers spent years perfecting this unique powerplant. The result was a car that could run on anything from diesel to perfume. This revolutionary approach to propulsion marked the beginning of Detroit’s most daring decade. From turbine engines to bubble canopies, these ten groundbreaking concept cars of the 1950s and 60s showcased technologies decades ahead of their time, revolutionizing everything from body materials to automated controls.
Here’s how these pioneering vehicles reshaped automotive design, ranking from stunning concepts to production-ready prototypes. But if you’ve had enough of cars in the 50s and 60s, here’s 17 coolest cars of the 1970s every collector will know.
10. 1951 GM LeSabre (Exterior)
The LeSabre’s aircraft-inspired design featured a wraparound windshield and dramatic tail fins. Aluminum body panels reduced weight while providing structural rigidity. The front-end incorporated dual headlights behind aerodynamic covers, while chrome accents highlighted its jet-age styling. The automated convertible top responded to rain sensors, demonstrating GM’s innovative approach to driver comfort.
1951 GM LeSabre (Interior)
A fighter jet-inspired cockpit greeted drivers with 12 separate gauges and innovative heating controls. The leather-wrapped dashboard housed aircraft-style switches and levers. Electric windows and seats provided modern convenience, while the center console featured an advanced radio system. The two-tone upholstery matched the exterior’s silver and white color scheme.
9. 1953 Chevrolet Corvette EX52 (Exterior)
Chevrolet crafted the EX-52’s body from fiberglass composite materials, marking a significant departure from traditional steel construction. The flowing lines and rounded fenders established the Corvette’s distinctive profile. Chrome trim accented the headlight surrounds and side coves, while the grille featured a simple, elegant design that became a Corvette trademark.
1953 Chevrolet Corvette EX52 (Interior)
The driver-focused cockpit introduced sporting luxury to American cars. Two-tone leather seats provided both comfort and support. The instrument panel featured easy-to-read gauges in a wraparound design, while the short-throw gear selector enhanced the sporting feel. Floor-mounted pedals improved driver control and engagement.
8. 1954 Lincoln Futura (Exterior)
Ghia craftsmen hand-formed the Futura’s dramatic body panels in Italy. The double-bubble canopy roof and exaggerated fins defined its futuristic appearance. Pearlescent white paint cost $10,000 alone, creating an otherworldly sheen. The canted headlights and hooded taillamps influenced Lincoln’s production designs for years.
1954 Lincoln Futura (Interior)
Twin steering wheels could fold away when not in use, showcasing the concept’s flexibility. The full-length center console housed aircraft-inspired controls and switches. Four separate bucket seats featured individual climate controls. The instrument panel wrapped around the driver’s position, creating an intimate cockpit feel.
7. 1954 Ford La Tosca (Exterior)
The Ford La Tosca’s smooth surfaces and curved glass panels demonstrated advanced aerodynamic principles. Power-operated headlight covers maintained the clean profile when not in use. The canopy roof opened electronically for easy access. The minimal chrome trim emphasized the concept’s modern design philosophy.
1954 Ford La Tosca (Interior)
A rotating front seat swiveled 90 degrees outward for elegant entry and exit. Individual climate control units served each passenger compartment. The floating instrument panel appeared to hover above the dashboard. Custom leather upholstery matched the exterior’s sophisticated color scheme.
6. 1956 Oldsmobile Golden Rocket (Exterior)
Power-operated doors rose dramatically upward and outward. The hand-formed aluminum body featured flowing lines and subtle fins. Chrome accents highlighted the concept’s rocket-inspired profile. The hidden headlights maintained the clean front-end design when not in use.
1956 Oldsmobile Golden Rocket (Interior)
Swiveling seats turned outward automatically when the doors opened. The padded dashboard incorporated recessed instruments for safety. Individual climate controls served each passenger. The center console featured touch-sensitive controls for various vehicle functions.
5. 1956 GM Firebird II (Exterior)
Titanium body panels gave the Firebird II a distinctive silver appearance. Four bubble canopies provided individual cockpits for each passenger. The gas turbine engine required unique cooling vents and exhaust ports. The aerodynamic shape reduced drag while maintaining stability at high speeds.
1956 GM Firebird II (Interior)
Each passenger enjoyed a personal climate control system. The digital dashboard displayed engine and vehicle information clearly. Aircraft-style controls replaced conventional automotive switches. The individual canopies created an open, airy feeling for all occupants.
4. 1957 Ford Nucleon (Exterior)
The scale model featured a distinctive two-box design with the passenger compartment far forward. The rear section housed the theoretical nuclear reactor power plant. Aerodynamic elements reduced drag while providing cooling for the power system. The clean surface treatment emphasized the concept’s futuristic power source.
3. 1961 Chrysler Turboflite (Exterior)
The distinctive wing-like roof integrated with the door opening system. Automatic headlight leveling improved nighttime visibility. The smooth body panels directed airflow efficiently around the vehicle. The rear featured early air brake technology for improved stopping power.
1961 Chrysler Turboflite (Interior)
Four bucket seats provided individual comfort zones. The aircraft-style controls simplified vehicle operation. The instrument panel featured turbine-specific gauges and indicators. Premium materials throughout reflected the concept’s premium positioning.
2. The 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car (Exterior)
The copper-colored finish highlighted the unique propulsion system of the 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car. Turbine-specific styling elements included distinctive side intakes. The clean profile improved aerodynamic efficiency. Twin exhaust ports resembled jet engine outputs, emphasizing the advanced powerplant, which could be fueled by anything from your favorite liquor to your wife’s perfume.
The 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car (Interior)
Full leather upholstery in matching copper tones created a luxury environment. The distinctive bronze instruments provided clear information about turbine operation. The center console incorporated turbine-specific controls. Sound insulation reduced the unique engine note inside the cabin.
1. 1963 Ford Seattle-ite (Exterior)
The bubble-top canopy provided excellent visibility in urban environments. Four-wheel steering enhanced maneuverability in tight spaces. Electric drive motors in each wheel eliminated the need for a conventional drivetrain. The minimal overhangs maximized interior space efficiency.
1963 Ford Seattle-ite (Interior)
A central control stick replaced the traditional steering wheel. The panoramic greenhouse created an open, airy feeling. Digital displays provided vehicle information clearly. The flexible seating arrangement adapted to various passenger and cargo needs.
