"This car, like many custom cars built during that era, resembles a space ship, with its winged back, rocket exhaust and curvaceous body," said Robert Brown, president and owner of Red Baron's. "Obviously, it was influenced by space travel, a theme that had gripped the public's imagination. This spilled over into automotive design."

Brown purchased the car about a year ago from a Hollywood director and car aficionado for $60,000 -- a bargain, except for its condition, which was dreadful. The vehicle had been left to rot in a Utah field for more than 20 years before being acquired by the director, for $50,000. He sold it to Brown after abandoning plans to restore it.

That job was left to Brown, who enlisted the services of Moses Lunden, a Chrysler-Plymouth guru who has written more than 20 books on the company and its products line. Lunden, based in Reno, Nev., lovingly tended to every bolt and screw until the car was brought back to its original luster and glory. Total cost: about $150,000.

"I'll either sell it for $100,000 and lose my shirt or get a million dollars for it and walk away happy," Brown said with a chuckle. "You never know with vintage cars, especially concept vehicles like this one." He acknowledged the car has already drawn interest from at least one high-profile celebrity collector, plus several auto museums.