General Motors Firebird Concept Model, 1952-1953
Add to SetSummary
The dramatic Firebird concept car wowed audiences at the 1954 General Motors Motorama. Harley Earl took inspiration from jet fighter planes in designing the vehicle. Power came from a 370-horsepower gas-turbine engine that drove the rear wheels. (The large exhaust nozzle at back was just for show.) When subsequent Firebirds appeared, the original received the retronym "Firebird I."
The dramatic Firebird concept car wowed audiences at the 1954 General Motors Motorama. Harley Earl took inspiration from jet fighter planes in designing the vehicle. Power came from a 370-horsepower gas-turbine engine that drove the rear wheels. (The large exhaust nozzle at back was just for show.) When subsequent Firebirds appeared, the original received the retronym "Firebird I."
Artifact
Scale model
Date Made
1952-1953
Creators
Creator Notes
Designed by Harley Earl; made by General Motors Corporation.
Keywords
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
89.1.1734.14
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of the Family of William L. Mitchell.
Material
Fiberglass
Dimensions
Height: 6.5 in
Width: 8 in
Length: 22.5 in
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