The year was 1941. Chrysler was a growing company and wanted to show the world that their technology and styling was up to date. Thunderbolt came from a land speed record car named the Thunderbolt. In 1938 at the Bonneville Salt Flats the twin Rolls-Royce 12 cylinder went an amazing 357.53 M.P.H.! It was then that Captain George Eyston granted Chrysler permission to use the name.
One of the most distinct things you will notice about the Thunderbolt is the slab sides, or smooth sides if you will. It does not have creases or bubbled out fenders. Aerodynamics was somewhat of a factor as much as looks itself. By designing and installing working “hide away” headlights, this car was definitely ahead of it's time!! Lack of body molding and enclosed wheels from the fender skirts also aid in the aerodynamic appearance. Nothing special under the hood for the show cars is known. A 143 horsepower Chrysler 323.5 cubic inch inline eight cylinder engine mated to the Chrysler Fluid Drive transmission powered the vehicle. The actual platform used for this project was a 1940 Crown Imperial. It had very strong structural integrity as you can see from the lack of A pillars. There are only 4 of the original 6 known to still exist.
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