How the Ghia L 6.4 Redefined Luxury GTs

The Ghia L 6.4 Coupe stands as one of the most exclusive and distinctive grand tourers of the early 1960s. It is a rare synthesis of American engineering and Italian design.

Hand-built by Carrozzeria Ghia of Turin, this bespoke machine was created for a select few. These individuals needed both the means and the taste to appreciate its understated glamour.

With just 26 examples produced between 1960 and 1963, the L 6.4 remains a seldom-seen and highly coveted example. It is transatlantic collaboration at its most refined.

We saw this iconic and very rare 1961 Ghia L 6.4 Coupe at the 2025 Concours of Elegance held at Hampton Court Palace. This car was one of many that grabbed my attention. You can see much more Concours of Elegance content here, and videos on our YouTube Concours of Elegance playlist. What a cool car. I’d never seen this car before.

The Spirit of the Dual-Ghia Lives On

Intended as the spiritual successor to the Dual-Ghia D-500, the L 6.4 carried forward the idea. It combined Chrysler‘s powerful mechanicals with Italian coachwork of exceptional quality.

At its heart was a 6.4-litre (383 cubic inch) Chrysler V8, an overhead valve unit producing approximately 360bhp. Paired with Chrysler’s smooth three-speed Torque Flite automatic gearbox, it delivered refined but commanding performance.

The L 6.4 could accelerate from 0 to 60mph in around eight seconds and reach a top speed of 140mph.

Handcrafted Beauty and Bespoke Luxury

Yet it was the styling that truly distinguished the Ghia L 6.4. Every car was constructed by hand in steel. The interior offered an equally impressive blend of craftsmanship and luxury.

It included fine Connolly leather, thick Wilton wool carpets, and polished wood trim. Additionally, bespoke fittings were tailored to each customer. Unlike many European cars of the time, the Ghia featured power windows, power steering, and power brakes.

There was also the option of air-conditioning. No two cars were exactly alike. Discerning clients seeking something far removed from mass production commissioned most.

The Car of the Rat Pack

Among the car’s most notable owners were members of the Rat Pack, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Peter Lawford. It also included actress and comedian Lucille Ball.

Dean Martin and Lucille Ball specified bespoke sound systems for their cars. Some cars reportedly featured rear-seat cocktail bars and engraved nameplates.

Exclusivity by Design

The car was never advertised or distributed through regular dealerships. This low-key, invitation-only sales model added to the exclusivity.

While the Dual-Motors Corporation in Detroit sold the first L 6.4 – to Frank Sinatra, no less – the owner of Dual became very sick. Consequently, he left the cooperation with Ghia altogether.

Ghia itself sold all the others, no doubt a factor in the small number of sales.

Specifications

Engine: 6276cc / V8 / naturally aspirated / OHV
Transmission: Three-speed automatic, RWD
Power: 360bhp
Torque: 398lb ft
Top Speed: 140mph
0–60mph: 8.5secs
Weight: 1900kg

Conclusion

The 1961 Ghia L 6.4 Coupe remains one of the most captivating examples of what happens when Italian artistry meets American muscle.

With its handcrafted body, sumptuous interior, and effortless V8 power, it represented a golden age of bespoke motoring. Exclusivity wasn’t advertised, it was earned.

From Frank Sinatra’s personal order to Lucille Ball’s custom sound system, every L 6.4 told its own story. Each reflected style and sophistication.

Do you think the Ghia L 6.4 deserves more recognition among classic grand tourers? And if you could commission your own bespoke car today, what blend of design and performance would you choose?

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