Dodge’s Radical PPG M4S ‘Wraith’ Concept
The PPG M4S Was an Experimental Concept Car Created by Dodge and PPG to Test Aerodynamics
If we rewind to 1983, and sit inside a boardroom with Chrysler’s design team, we would witness the birth of the PPG M4S. PPG — a long-standing OEM supplier of paints, glass, and other automotive finish products — had become extensively involved with Indy Car racing. So they pitched an idea to Chrysler to jointly develop a new concept pace car capable of reaching 200 miles per hour.
“Have fun, go wild!” That was Chrysler design director Neil Walling’s instruction to designer Bob Ackerman. History has proven that Bob was good at following such instructions.
Inspiration came from IMSA prototype cars, with their extremely aerodynamic shape. Although the M4S would not employ any visible wings when viewed from the side. The resulting teardrop shape was not only pretty to look at, but also became one of Chrysler’s most aerodynamic shapes. Slicing through the air at 0.236 made it much easier to achieve that goal of 200 miles per hour.
CHECK OUT: What Forum Members Are Saying About the PPG M4S
Power came from Chrysler’s 2.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It produced about 440 horsepower, but that wasn’t the highlight of this car. A starring role in the movie The Wraith ended up giving the PPG M4S a cult following among movie-going car nerds.
Bob Ackerman recounts many more details of the M4S’s development in this riveting Allpar article. Set aside some time, because it is a lengthy read, but totally worth it.
Via [Allpar]
