General Motors Firebird III concept (1959)
Concept car · 1959 · Combustion
Seven fins, a joystick, and a turbine heart.
The Firebird III took Space Age styling to its extreme with a double-bubble canopy, seven short wings and tailfins, and a single joystick controlling steering, acceleration and braking. Power came from the Whirlfire GT-305 gas turbine (~225 hp), aided by a small two-cylinder gasoline engine for accessories. It bristled with future tech: cruise control, anti-lock brakes, air conditioning and an ultrasonic key.
Key facts
- Designer: Harley Earl / Bill Mitchell (GM)
- Engine: Whirlfire GT-305 gas turbine, ~225 hp
- Controls: Single joystick for steer/throttle/brake
- Design: Double-bubble canopy, seven fins/wings
- Status: Preserved, GM Heritage Collection
Production
- Status: Concept only
- 1959 gas-turbine experimental show car with joystick control, never produced.
- Revealed at 1959 GM Motorama
Source: Wikipedia