Also referred to as the Bobby Darin Dream Car, the Di Dia was designed by Andy Di Dia (a clothing designer) in 1953 and took seven years to build at a reported cost in excess of $93,000.
The 125-inch wheelbase hand-fashioned from soft aluminum car features then-radical design elements, including rotating taillamps (when the car is turning), hidden headlamps and hinged glass windows. Also included with the build were thermostatically controlled air conditioning and elaborate bucket seats, each have their own ash tray, cigarette lighter, and radio speaker. The oversize levers on the dash control the heater, defrost, and air conditioning systems.
It has also been long rumored that 30 coats of paint were originally sprayed onto the body, which was infused with diamond dust. When completed, Darin used the car to make an appearance at the Academy Awards after being nominated for his role in the 1963 film Captain Newman M.D.
In 1970, Darin donated the DiDia 150 to the St. Louis, Missouri, Museum of Transportation following its restoration by Manns Auto Body in Festus, Missouri (three years after his death).
The Di Dia is now currently on display at the ACD Automobile Museum in Auburn, Indiana, |
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