Phantom Corsair (1938)

The Phantom Corsair, also known as the "Flying Wombat," is an iconic concept car that was designed in the 1930s. It was the brainchild of Rust Heinz, the heir to the H. J. Heinz Company fortune, and Maurice Schwartz, an experienced automobile designer.

The Phantom Corsair was intended to be a futuristic luxury automobile with a sleek and aerodynamic design. It featured a low-slung body made of hand-formed aluminum, which gave it a distinctive and streamlined appearance. The car had unique design elements such as hidden wheels, recessed door handles, and an absence of running boards.

Inside, the Phantom Corsair had a luxurious and spacious cabin that could accommodate up to six passengers. It boasted innovative features for its time, including a push-button transmission, power windows, and a built-in radio system. The car was also equipped with advanced engineering, such as a Cord 812 drivetrain, which provided it with impressive performance capabilities.

Despite its innovative design and advanced features, the Phantom Corsair never went into mass production. Only one prototype was ever built, which still exists today and is considered a rare and valuable collector's item. The car made appearances in various films and has gained a cult following over the years due to its unique and futuristic aesthetic.

The Phantom Corsair stands as a testament to the visionary design of the 1930s and continues to be admired as an iconic and influential concept car.