What was the Plymouth XNR?

The Plymouth XNR was a concept car developed by Chrysler and first publicly shown in 1960. It was designed by Virgil Exner and is also known by the alternative name XNR 500.

What was the intended purpose of the Plymouth XNR?

The Plymouth XNR was proposed as a sporty addition to the Plymouth model lineup and was designed to serve as a competitor to the Chevrolet Corvette.

Who designed the Plymouth XNR?

The Plymouth XNR was designed by Virgil Exner, a prominent automotive designer.

What was Virgil Exner's background before designing the XNR for Chrysler?

Before joining Chrysler in 1949, Virgil Exner had previously worked for Studebaker, another American automobile manufacturer.

What was a significant challenge Exner faced at Chrysler regarding design?

A key challenge Exner encountered at Chrysler was wresting final design authority away from the engineering department, which had previously held significant control over automotive styling.

Where were the concept cars designed by Exner for Chrysler, including the XNR, built?

The concept cars, including the Plymouth XNR, were constructed in Italy by the renowned coachbuilder Carrozzeria Ghia.

What other sporty, open-top concept cars did Exner commission from Ghia around the same time as the XNR?

In addition to the XNR, Virgil Exner commissioned several other sporty, open-top, two-seat cars from Ghia, including three from the Dodge Firearrow series and the Chrysler Falcon.

What vehicles or racing cars influenced the design of the Plymouth XNR?

The design of the Plymouth XNR drew inspiration from a Studebaker Indianapolis race car owned by Exner, the later asymmetrical Watson Indy Roadster, and the iconic Jaguar D-Type.

What were the various names considered or used for the Plymouth XNR during its development, and what is the origin of its final name?

During its development, the car was labeled as "Falcon" in some early drawings, but this name was later dropped because Ford had registered it for their own compact car. It was also referred to as "Asymmetrica" at one point before being finalized as "XNR," which is a disemvoweled, pseudo-acronym derived from the designer's last name, Exner.

What was the reported top speed of the Plymouth XNR as originally built?

As it was originally constructed, the Plymouth XNR achieved a top speed of 146 miles per hour (235 km/h) during testing on Chrysler's test track.

Did Virgil Exner personally drive the XNR?

Yes, Virgil Exner reportedly drove the XNR himself on Chrysler's test track, reaching speeds of up to 142 mph (229 km/h).

What modifications were made to the XNR that resulted in a higher top speed?

After its initial testing, the XNR was fitted with a fiberglass nosecone fabricated by Dick Burke and received additional engine modifications, which enabled it to reach a higher top speed of 153 mph (246 km/h).

Which automotive magazines featured the Plymouth XNR on their covers in 1960?

The Plymouth XNR garnered significant attention, appearing on the cover of both Road & Track and Motor Trend magazines in May 1960.

When and where did the Plymouth XNR make its first public appearance?

The Plymouth XNR made its debut to the public at the 1960 New York Auto Show.

Was the Plymouth XNR ever put into production by Chrysler?

No, Chrysler ultimately decided not to put the Plymouth XNR concept car into production.

What happened to the XNR after Chrysler decided not to produce it?

To prevent the unique concept car from being destroyed, Chrysler shipped the XNR back to Ghia in Italy.

Trace the ownership history of the Plymouth XNR after it left Chrysler's possession, including its time in Iran, Kuwait, and its eventual discovery during the Lebanese Civil War.

After being returned to Ghia in Italy, the XNR was purchased by a Swiss buyer, who subsequently sold it to Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Shah of Iran. Later, it was acquired by Anwar al Mulla, a Kuwaiti car dealer. During the tumultuous period of the Lebanese Civil War, Karim Edde discovered the car and took possession of it, moving it multiple times to protect it from damage until the conflict ended.

When was the XNR sent for a full restoration, and where was it done?

Following the Lebanese Civil War, Karim Edde arranged for the XNR to be sent to RM Restorations in Canada in 2008 for a comprehensive restoration.

When was the restoration of the XNR completed, and where was it reintroduced?

The restoration of the Plymouth XNR was finished in March 2011, and the car was subsequently unveiled at that year's Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance.

What award did the Plymouth XNR win at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in 2011?

In August 2011, the restored Plymouth XNR achieved a significant recognition by winning the Gran Turismo Trophy at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

How much did the Plymouth XNR sell for at the RM Sotheby's Monterey auction in August 2012?

The unique Plymouth XNR concept car was sold at the RM Sotheby's Monterey auction on August 18, 2012, for a price of $935,000.

What chassis and engine did the Plymouth XNR utilize?

The Plymouth XNR utilized both the chassis and the "G-Series" Slant-6 straight-six engine sourced from the Plymouth Valiant, which were both new components for the 1960 model year.

What is the characteristic feature of Chrysler's Slant-6 engine?

The defining characteristic of Chrysler's Slant-6 engine is its unique configuration where the row of cylinders is inclined at a 30-degree angle from the vertical position.

What specific version of the Slant-6 engine was used in the XNR, and why was it chosen?

The XNR is equipped with the 170 cubic inch LG model of the Slant-6 engine. This particular version was chosen because its lower profile was the only one that could fit beneath the car's hood.

What performance package was fitted to the XNR's Slant-6 engine?

The Slant-6 engine in the Plymouth XNR was enhanced with Chrysler's Hyper Pak performance package, designed to boost its output.

What is the estimated horsepower output of the XNR's engine with the Hyper Pak?

With the Hyper Pak kit installed, the 170 cubic inch Slant-6 engine in the XNR is often cited as developing approximately 250 bhp (186 kW) at 7000 rpm.

What made the XNR's engine unique among Slant-6s?

The engine in the XNR was particularly special as it was one of only twelve Slant-6 engines built to "NASCAR" specifications, incorporating various upgrades beyond the standard Hyper Pak kit.

What racing achievement is related to the XNR's engine type?

The Slant-6 engines, particularly those with performance modifications like the one in the XNR, are linked to the success of Plymouth Valiants in the inaugural Cannonball Compact Car Division NASCAR race held at Daytona in January 1960, where they secured the first seven finishing positions.

How was the XNR's body constructed?

The steel body of the XNR was meticulously formed by Ghia in Italy over a custom armature, or body buck, which was built upon a modified and shortened version of the Valiant's unitary chassis.

What design elements on the XNR's side elevation were inspired by other Chrysler products?

The side profile of the XNR's body incorporated exaggerated versions of the styling cues found on the first-generation Plymouth Valiant and the second-generation Dodge Lancer.

What specific features contribute to the asymmetric design of the XNR?

The XNR's distinctive asymmetric design is characterized by an offset hood scoop and a prominent power bump located behind it on the driver's side. This bump extends rearward to form a tall headrest that tapers into a fin.

How did the passenger's seating position differ from the driver's in the XNR?

The passenger's seat in the XNR was positioned further back and mounted four inches lower than the driver's seat, contributing to the car's unique layout.

What did the passenger side of the XNR feature instead of a full windshield?

Instead of a full windshield, the passenger side of the XNR had a separate, smaller wind deflector mounted on the scuttle, which could be folded flat forward.

How could the XNR effectively be converted into a single-seater?

A rigid steel tonneau cover, designed to fit over the passenger side, allowed the XNR to be converted into a single-seater configuration when desired.

How did Exner's interest in photography influence the XNR's design?

Reflecting Virgil Exner's passion for photography, the XNR featured glass covers over the dashboard gauges designed to resemble camera lenses, and its glove box insert was removable and could double as a camera case.

Describe the headlamp and grille arrangement on the front of the XNR.

The front of the Plymouth XNR featured quad headlamps integrated into a perforated aluminum grille, which was bordered by chrome trim that also served as the front bumper.

What kind of bumper was used at the rear of the XNR?

The rear of the XNR was equipped with a narrow chrome cruciform bumper. Its main horizontal section stretched across the back, intersected by a shorter vertical leg that extended upwards along the trailing edge of the rear fin.

What was the displacement of the engine used in the Plymouth XNR?

The engine powering the Plymouth XNR had a displacement of 170 cubic inches, which is equivalent to 2.8 liters.

What type of transmission was fitted to the Plymouth XNR?

The Plymouth XNR was equipped with a 3-speed manual transmission.

What were the front and rear brake specifications for the Plymouth XNR?

The Plymouth XNR featured drum brakes on both the front and rear, each measuring 9.0 inches (229 mm) in diameter.

What type of suspension system did the front and rear of the XNR utilize?

The front suspension of the XNR employed a double wishbone setup with torsion bar springs and hydraulic shock absorbers. The rear suspension consisted of a live axle mounted on semi-elliptic leaf springs, also with hydraulic shock absorbers.

What were the overall dimensions of the Plymouth XNR?

The Plymouth XNR measured 195.5 inches (4,966 mm) in length, 71 inches (1,803 mm) in width, and stood 43 inches (1,092 mm) tall.

What was the wheelbase of the Plymouth XNR?

The wheelbase of the Plymouth XNR measured 106.5 inches, which is equivalent to 2,705 millimeters.

What was the maximum speed recorded for the Plymouth XNR?

The Plymouth XNR achieved a recorded maximum speed of 153 miles per hour (246 km/h).

Who built a full-scale replica of the Plymouth XNR?

A full-scale replica of the Plymouth XNR was constructed by Gotham Garage, a company led by Mark Towle.

What television show featured the build of the Gotham Garage XNR replica?

The process of building the Gotham Garage XNR replica was showcased on the Netflix series "Car Masters: Rust to Riches."

What material was used for the body of the Gotham Garage replica?

The body for the Gotham Garage replica of the XNR was fabricated from fiberglass by Starr Creations, a company based in Florida.

Where was the finished XNR replica donated?

Upon completion, the first XNR replica built by Gotham Garage was donated to the Petersen Automotive Museum located in Los Angeles, California.

Was more than one XNR replica built by Gotham Garage?

Yes, Gotham Garage constructed a second XNR replica, which was subsequently sold at the beginning of Season 3 of their television show.

What was presented by Ghia at the Turin Motor Show in October 1961?

In October 1961, Ghia unveiled the Asimmetrica at the Turin Motor Show, presenting it without officially naming a manufacturer for the vehicle.

How is the Asimmetrica described in relation to the XNR's design?

The Asimmetrica is characterized as a more subdued and refined interpretation of the distinctive design language established by the Plymouth XNR.

Plymouth Xnr Wiki: The Plymouth XNR: Virgil Exner's Aerodynamic Vision

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Overview

A Bold Statement

The Plymouth XNR, also known as the XNR 500, stands as a testament to the daring design philosophy of Virgil Exner during his tenure at Chrysler. Unveiled in 1960, this open roadster concept was conceived as a high-performance, visually arresting competitor to the Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Thunderbird, aiming to inject a potent dose of sportiness into the Plymouth lineup.

Italian Craftsmanship

Crafted in Italy by the renowned Carrozzeria Ghia, the XNR embodies a fusion of American ambition and European elegance. Its design language, characterized by aerodynamic curves and distinctive asymmetric features, was revolutionary for its time, showcasing Exner's "Forward Look" aesthetic in its most dramatic form.

Performance Pedigree

Built upon a modified Plymouth Valiant chassis and powered by a potent Chrysler Slant-6 engine enhanced with the "Hyper Pak" performance package, the XNR was engineered not just for show but for speed. Its capabilities were validated on Chrysler's test tracks, reaching impressive speeds that underscored its sporting intentions.

History

Virgil Exner's Vision

Automotive design luminary Virgil Exner, who joined Chrysler in 1949, was instrumental in shifting the company's design direction away from conservative styling. Recognizing the need for more dynamic and appealing vehicles, Exner commissioned a series of innovative concept cars from Carrozzeria Ghia in Italy. These creations, including the Dodge Firearrow series and the Chrysler Falcon, were designed to challenge the established American sports car market.

Evolving Identity

The XNR's development journey was marked by several name changes. Initially conceived under the working title "Falcon," it was later referred to as "Asymmetrica" before finally being christened "XNR"—a clever, disemvoweled pseudo-acronym derived from Exner's surname. This evolution reflects the iterative process of design and branding in automotive concept development.

Influences and Debut

Exner's design for the XNR drew inspiration from various sources, including a Studebaker Indianapolis race car he owned, the distinctive Watson Indy Roadster, and the sleek lines of the Jaguar D-Type. The car made its public debut at the 1960 New York Auto Show, generating significant buzz and appearing on the covers of prominent automotive magazines like Road & Track and Motor Trend.

Key Features

Asymmetric Design

A defining characteristic of the XNR is its asymmetric styling. The driver's side features an offset hood scoop and a prominent power bulge that extends rearward into a tall, tapering headrest and fin. This unique visual element sets the XNR apart from conventional automotive designs.

Unique Seating Configuration

The XNR accommodates two occupants, but with a distinct asymmetry: the passenger seat is positioned lower and further back than the driver's seat, complete with a smaller, foldable wind deflector. This arrangement, coupled with a rigid tonneau cover for the passenger side, effectively allows the car to be configured as a single-seater.

Photographic Inspiration

Exner's passion for photography influenced certain design details. The instrument panel gauges are housed behind glass covers reminiscent of camera lenses, and the glove box insert was designed to be removable and function as a camera case, integrating his personal interests into the vehicle's concept.

Technical Specifications

Performance and Engineering

The Plymouth XNR utilized the chassis and powertrain from the contemporary Plymouth Valiant, adapted for its roadster configuration. The engine, a Chrysler Slant-6, was notably equipped with the "Hyper Pak" performance package, enhancing its output significantly.

	Plymouth XNR specifications:
Type:	Concept car / Roadster
Body stylist:	Virgil Exner
Production:	1
Driven wheels	Rear
Engine:	Chrysler Slant-6 straight-six engine with Hyper Pak performance package
Engine materials:	Cast iron block, cast iron cylinder head
Bore × Stroke:	3.4 in × 3.125 in (86 mm × 79 mm)
Displacement:	170 cu in (2.8 L)
Compression ratio:	10.5:1
Maximum power:	250 bhp (186 kW) (est.) at 7000 rpm
Maximum torque:	200 ft⋅lb (271 N⋅m) (est.) at 5000 rpm
Valvetrain:	Single cam-in-block, pushrods, rocker arms, 2 overhead valves per cylinder
Induction:	Carter AFB 3083S four-barrel carburetor
Cooling:	Water-cooled
Transmission:	3-speed manual
Steering:	Recirculating ball
Brakes f/r:	9.0 in (229 mm) drum / 9.0 in (229 mm) drum
Suspension front:	Double wishbone suspension, torsion bar springs, hydraulic shock absorbers
Suspension rear:	Live axle on semi-elliptic leaf springs, hydraulic shock absorbers
Body/Chassis:	Steel body on Valiant unitary chassis
Wheelbase:	106.5 in (2,705 mm)
Tyres f/r:	8.00 × 14
Length Width Height:	195.5 in (4,966 mm) 71 in (1,803 mm) 43 in (1,092 mm)
Maximum speed:	153 mph (246 km/h)

The XNR Replica

Modern Interpretation

A full-scale replica of the Plymouth XNR was meticulously constructed by Gotham Garage, a team featured on the Netflix series Car Masters: Rust to Riches. This modern interpretation captured the essence of Exner's original vision, utilizing fiberglass for the body construction.

Museum Display

The completed replica was generously donated to the esteemed Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, California, ensuring its preservation and public accessibility. Gotham Garage also produced a second replica, which was subsequently sold.

Asimmetrica by Ghia

A Ghia Collaboration

In October 1961, Ghia presented the Asimmetrica at the Turin Motor Show. This concept car is considered a more subdued, production-oriented interpretation of the XNR's radical design language. While its direct lineage to Exner's work is debated, it utilized the same body bucks originally created for the XNR.

Production Aspirations

The Asimmetrica incorporated features absent on the XNR, such as door handles, a full windshield, and a folding top, suggesting Ghia's intent for limited production. Despite these efforts, financing challenges reportedly prevented the car from entering series production. A related hardtop coupe, the Coupé St. Regis, was also shown.

References

Source Material

The information presented on this page is derived from a comprehensive analysis of publicly available data, primarily sourced from the Wikipedia article on the Plymouth XNR.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Plymouth XNR Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This content has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon established knowledge bases. It is intended for educational and informational purposes exclusively. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the provided source material, the information may not be exhaustive or entirely current.

This is not professional automotive design or historical advice. The content herein should not substitute consultation with automotive historians, designers, or restoration specialists for specific inquiries or projects. Always verify critical information with primary sources and qualified experts.

The creators of this page assume no liability for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented.

The Plymouth XNR

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview 💡

✨ A Bold Statement

🇮🇹 Italian Craftsmanship

🚀 Performance Pedigree

History 📜

👤 Virgil Exner's Vision

🏷️ Evolving Identity

🏁 Influences and Debut

Key Features ⚙️

📐 Asymmetric Design

💺 Unique Seating Configuration

📸 Photographic Inspiration

Technical Specifications 🔧

📊 Performance and Engineering

The XNR Replica 🎭

📺 Modern Interpretation

🏛️ Museum Display

Asimmetrica by Ghia 🎨

🇮🇹 A Ghia Collaboration

💡 Production Aspirations

References 📚

🔗 Source Material

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

A Bold Statement

Italian Craftsmanship

Performance Pedigree

History

Virgil Exner's Vision

Evolving Identity

Influences and Debut

Key Features

Asymmetric Design

Unique Seating Configuration

Photographic Inspiration

Technical Specifications

Performance and Engineering

The XNR Replica

Modern Interpretation

Museum Display

Asimmetrica by Ghia

A Ghia Collaboration

Production Aspirations

References

Source Material

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice