Review written on 8/1964.

Several months ago I thought to my self. "Philadelphia Motors should really make a Subcompact that is better than the Chimaera." Someone at Philadelphia Motors must of been reading my mind because I got my hands on the latest Chimaera and gave it a test spin. I hope it's not as bad as the U4645 but the real question is: "How far behind does it lag to the Chimaera?"


I was giddy when I heard we were testing Philadelphia Motors Chimaera. On the track this thing is fast. How fast? Notice there are no pictures on this page? That fast! This is one of the fastest Subcompact I've ever been in. As impressive as that sounds, the 53 hp @ 3564RPMs 905 cc Radial5 engine is even more impressive. Peddle to the metal, this baby will do 86 mph easily. And in a straight line we hit a 29.601s 0 to 60 mph! The engine puts out 63 lb-ft of torque making it able to tow 22 lbs which is average for this class. The Philadelphia Motors Chimaera handles smoothly and can really turn a corner for a Subcompact. While it is certainly not a race car, it can handle any real world situation you throw at it. Mommy can I keep it? Please?!


Once we were done playing on the track, we got a good look at the Philadelphia Motors Chimaera and I must say, we were quite impressed. While not the most luxurious vehicle on the market. It is quite comfortable for what it is. There is just enough styling and support to last on long trips and impress friends, while not being overly expensive like hyper luxurious vehicles.

When it comes time to get into the Philadelphia Motors Chimaera most people will find it to be a little tight. While the 19 cu-ft of cargo and passenger space does limit us, it is almost average for it's class. Overtime we got used to it. But we still think the folks at Philadelphia Motors should squeeze in just a little more space inside.

Serious effort goes into every Philadelphia Motors Chimaera produced. The build quality of these vehicles is amazing! We could not find a single flaw in its construction while we were testing it. Everything fits properly, nothing is misaligned or misplaced. All of us here at GCM commend Philadelphia Motors in their efforts when it comes to the production of this vehicle.


It is a rare occurrence to see the Philadelphia Motors Chimaera in the shop. These are some of the most reliable vehicles in the segment made. Philadelphia Motors knows how to build a machine that will last the ages. No planned obsolescence here.

At the pump station you get the feeling that someone over at Philadelphia Motors really wanted to squeeze out every last drop out of this vehicle. And that person should get a raise. The Philadelphia Motors Chimaera gets an impressive 41.3 mpg! Which means it theoretically pays for it self compared to the competition!

In some sense the Philadelphia Motors Chimaera reminds us of an over protective parent. One that wraps you in damage proof forcefield that prevents all interaction with the outside world. While the Chimaera isn't that safe. It is still quite comforting to know that nothing can hurt you.


I was happy with the time I spent in the Philadelphia Motors Chimaera. This car is truly magnificent. I think future generations will look back at this vehicle and think, "I wish I owned one of these." It is absolutely one of the best Subcompact you can buy. An instant classic that others in the segment will be compared to. I wish I could spend more time with the Chimaera but it is time for them to take it away. I believe I might go buy one myself.