The Flajole Forerunner: The Stunning 1955 Prototype That Time Almost Forgot

Forgotten Brilliance - In the golden age of postwar motoring, when American roads were filling with chrome-laden cruisers and European sports cars were capturing imaginations, a handful of designers quietly experimented beyond the spotlight. Among them was William J. Flajole, a creative mind often associated with the charming Nash Metropolitan. Yet beyond that well-known compact classic lies a far rarer and more intriguing creation—one that makes enthusiasts pause and ask, seeing how beautiful the Flajole Forerunner prototype was, why isn’t it talked about more often? 

The 1955 Flajole Forerunner prototype is built based on Nash Metropolitan by William J. Flajole. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The story of the Forerunner began shortly after the success of the Nash Metropolitan, which was produced between 1953 and 1961 by Nash Motors before the company merged into American Motors Corporation in 1954. Having proven his talent in shaping accessible style for the masses, Bill Flajole shifted his focus toward something more personal. In 1955, he unveiled the Flajole Forerunner, a privately commissioned prototype that reflected his unfiltered vision of what a modern American sports car could be.

Interior view of the 1955 Flajole Forerunner prototype. (Picture from: Silodrome)

At first glance, the Forerunner carried a familiar European flair. Its silhouette clearly echoed the spirit of the Jaguar XK120, particularly in its long hood and athletic stance. However, the resemblance stopped short of imitation. Flajole elevated the concept with high fenders and a dramatic fastback rear that tapered sharply downward, creating a sleek, almost aerodynamic impression. The proportions felt bold yet balanced, as if the car were perpetually leaning forward, eager to move.

The steering wheel and dashboard view of the 1955 Flajole Forerunner prototype. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

One of the most striking features was its retractable cabin roof made from Plexiglass, designed to open automatically—an advanced idea for the mid-1950s. This transparent roof panel added a futuristic touch while maintaining the car’s cohesive form. The rear design was equally daring: a sharply descending tail incorporated a dedicated cavity above the rear bumper to house the spare tire. Rather than hiding practical elements, Flajole integrated them into the car’s sculptural identity.

Left side view of the 1955 Flajole Forerunner prototype. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The Forerunner’s visual drama was amplified by its color treatment. The body wore a bright beige finish, contrasted with deep purple accents and complemented by pearl white details nestled around the front and rear wheel openings. These subtle niches around the wheels were not only aesthetic flourishes but also pioneering design elements. Interestingly, this body treatment appeared before similar contours were adopted on the 1956 Corvette, placing the Forerunner quietly ahead of its time.

The 1955 Flajole Forerunner prototype is used dual overhead camshaft six-cylinder engine coupled with the four-speed transmission system. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Step inside, and the innovation continued. The seats were inspired by commercial aircraft design, complete with integrated head restraints—an uncommon feature in the 1950s. At a time when automotive safety considerations were still minimal, Flajole had already envisioned added protection for occupants. The headrests were not merely decorative; they were conceived to reduce the risk of injury during collisions, showcasing a forward-thinking approach that many larger manufacturers had yet to embrace.

Left-rear side view of the 1955 Flajole Forerunner prototype. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

Despite being a prototype, the Forerunner was not confined to showrooms or exhibitions. Bill Flajole used it as his personal transportation well into the early 1970s, turning everyday drives into rolling design statements. The car consistently drew attention wherever it appeared, standing out even in an era known for flamboyant styling. Eventually, Flajole donated the vehicle to the Blackhawk Automotive Museum, ensuring its preservation before it changed hands at auction in 1998, where it was acquired by Sidney Craig.

Its journey through the collector world continued. In 2009, Bonhams offered the Forerunner at the “Exceptional Motorcars and Automobilia” event at Quail Lodge Resort, where it reached a value of US$188,500. A few years later, in 2012, Barrett-Jackson auctioned the prototype again, this time achieving US$200,000—approximately Rp 2.6 billion. Today, the Flajole Forerunner stands as more than a rare collector’s item; it represents a bold personal experiment from a designer unafraid to blend elegance, innovation, and individuality. Its beauty is undeniable, but its real significance lies in how it quietly anticipated ideas that would only become mainstream years later, securing its place as a fascinating chapter in automotive history. *** [EKA [08032020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BONHAMS | BARRET-JACKSON | SILODROME | CONCEPTCARZ ]

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