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Showing posts with label Classic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Classic. Show all posts

Sunday, March 17, 2024

Rometsch Beeskow: Volkswagen's Unofficial Luxury Craftsmanship

Rare ONES - The Volkswagen Beetle, an iconic creation by a German manufacturer, has become a canvas for creative automotive enthusiasts. These individuals transform the Beetle into automotive masterpieces, turning them into elegant and stunning creations far removed from their original form.
The 1951 Rometsch Beeskow Coupe posed along with its successor 1957 Rometsch Lawrence Cabrio. (Pictures from: VWVortex, Edited by Eka)
One outstanding example of this creative transformation is the Rometsch Beeskow Coupe, a beautiful classic car from the 1950s, was soon named Banane. At first glance, its exterior design exudes beauty and elegance, making it hard to believe that this car originated from the humble Volkswagen Beetle. But who is the mastermind behind this sophisticated creation?
The Rometsch Beeskow exquisite car (pictured in Coupe model) was designed by Johannes Beeskow, and crafted by Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch during 1951 to 1957. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
According to various internet sources, the Rometsch Beeskow Coupe was crafted by Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch, a Berlin-based coachbuilder established in 1924. Their venture into Volkswagen-based projects began in 1950 with a four-door taxi featuring an elongated wheelbase.

The first Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch's venture into Volkswagen-based projects began in 1950 with a four-door taxi featuring an elongated wheelbase.. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
The exquisite car, designed by Johannes Beeskow, made its debut at the 1951 Geneva Motor Show. Referred to as the 'Volkswagen for high society,' it earned this title rightfully. The initial buyers included the King of Sweden and renowned celebrities like Victor de Kowa, Gregory Peck, and Audrey Hepburn.
The Rometsch Beeskow exquisite car (pictured in Coupe model) featured a steel frame with wood pillars and were clad in a lightweight aluminum body. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
Fascinatingly, the aluminum-bodied sports car was never officially endorsed by Wolfsburg. Volkswagen declined to provide the coachbuilders with the essential rolling chassis and parts, prompting them to either acquire complete Volkswagens through their 50 employees or purchase used cars.
The cabin of the Rometsch Beeskow, featuring a similar layout to the VW Beetle, is adorned with additional luxury touches. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
The Rometsch Beeskow was available as a coupe and convertible, as many as 175 examples ever built (with 51 convertibles), the majority being convertibles. These hand-built vehicles featured a steel frame with wood pillars and were clad in a lightweight aluminum body. They aimed to provide an affordable sports car alternative to the more expensive cars of the time, utilizing the Volkswagen Beetle chassis to keep prices reasonable.
The aluminum-bodied sports car Rometsch Beeskow made its debut at the 1951 Geneva Motor Show, and referred to as the 'Volkswagen for high society'. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
After Johannes Beeskow's move to Karmann in 1956, Rometsch continued crafting bespoke cars with the assistance of furniture designer Bert Lawrence. The successor model, Rometsch Lawrence, saw the production of 120 units from 1957 to 1961 (in Coupe and Cabrio models). This period marked a transition in design, with a more American-style exterior and sumptuous interiors, including a cushioned dash.
The successor model, the Rometsch Lawrence (pictured in Cabrio model), showcases a transition in design with a more American-style exterior and sumptuous interiors, complete with a cushioned dashboard. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
Despite facing challenges, Rometsch persisted until 1961 when the Berlin Wall's construction effectively separated the company from half of its 90 employees. Despite modest sales at the time, the Rometsch Beeskow left an indelible mark in automotive history.
The Rometsch Lawrence (pictured in Cabrio model) bespoke cars were crafted with the assistance of furniture designer Bert Lawrence from 1957 to 1961. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
The car claimed several notable achievements, including being the first to feature its full manufacturer and model name on its back, pioneering interior safety with a padded dash, influencing the design of the Mercedes 300 SL, and inspiring the Audi TT’s designer with its timeless design.
The unmistakable reliability and refinement showcased in Rometsch's bespoke car models were truly undeniable, asserting their dominance and earning acclaim in the Volkswagen Custom Coachwork class at the 2019 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. This achievement further solidified their indelible place in automotive history. Rometsch's cars serve as a compelling testament to the enduring allure of creative automotive transformations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VWVORTEX | CONCEPTCARZ | WESTERNDRIVER | THEAUTOCHANNEL | MOTORSPORT-TOTAL | THEMOVEMENT | KOLAHA-COLLECTION ]
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Friday, March 15, 2024

Beyond the Road: Decoding the 1963 Split-Window Vette's Iconic Legacy

Unique ONES - The Corvette, in its second generation (C2), became an enduring symbol of American automotive excellence, capturing attention with its striking styling and revolutionary design. This iconic vehicle, born in 1953, reached new heights under the visionary leadership of Bill Mitchell, the head of GM Design, and Larry Shinoda, the creative mind behind concept cars like the XP-720 4-Seater and XP-755 Mako Shark.
The 1963-'67 Corvette Sting Ray Coupe is still stunning from every angle and is today, truly an iconic automotive design. (Picture from: Motortrend)
Mitchell's inspiration for the Corvette's aesthetics came from the Shortfin Mako Shark, proudly displayed in miniature within his office. The result was the C2 Corvette, affectionately named the Sting Ray, a testament to its sleek and aggressive appearance. 
The C2 Corvette Sting Ray remains a timeless symbol of American automotive ingenuity, blending style, power, and performance in a package that continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts worldwide. (Picture from: Motortrend)
However, this bold departure from convention left Chevrolet's competition department scrambling to reconcile the striking design with the demands of racing. Zora Arkus-Duntov, considered the savior of Corvette performance, faced the challenge of adapting the road-centric Sting Ray for the track. 
Larry Shinoda, the creative mind behind concept cars like the XP-720 4-Seater and XP-755 Mako Shark. (Picture from: Motortrend)
The Corvette Z06 emerged as Duntov's solution, featuring competition upgrades that allowed race teams to unleash the Sting Ray's potential on the track. Initially successful, the Sting Ray faced fierce competition from the purpose-built Shelby Cobra, which dominated the racing scene.
The 1959 Corvette Sting Ray XP-87 concept sat on display at the Petersen Museum. (Picture from: Motortrend)
As a road car, Mitchell's design achieved overwhelming success, introducing the Corvette coupe for the first time. The split rear window, though attention-grabbing, proved impractical, impeding rearward vision and necessitating removal in 1964. Both coupes and convertibles shared a fiberglass body atop a steel ladder frame chassis, showcasing Duntov's innovative rear suspension and maintaining the front suspension from the C1 generation.
The XP-720 Corvette prototype, manifested in a clay model, later served as the inspiration for the birth of the C2 Corvette Sting Ray. (Picture from: Motortrend)
Options abounded for Sting Ray enthusiasts, from engine choices to performance packages like L88, Z06, or COPO427, each gaining renown for rarity and exceptional performance. Leather interiors, Kelsey-Hayes cast aluminum wheels, air conditioning, and power brakes were among the many customizable features that set the Sting Ray apart.
The inside of the C2 Corvette Sting Ray adorned with genuine leather interiors, draws inspiration from the aviation world, providing a sensation of flight for both driver and passengers. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Under the hood, the '63 Sting Ray boasted a V8 engine, evolving over the years to include the powerful 327 in various states of tune. The introduction of the big block 396 Turbo Jet in 1965 signaled a shift towards even greater power, culminating in the 427 that produced an impressive 600 bhp in 1967 with the L88 option.
The C2 Corvette Sting Ray, known for its distinctive split rear window, continued to captivate enthusiasts until 1967. (Picture from: Motortrend)
Priced at $4,037 for the convertible and $4,257 for the coupe, the Sting Ray found immediate success, with sales soaring and the St. Louis factory struggling to keep up with demand. Production for 1963 alone surged by 50 percent, reaching almost 22,000 units. The Sting Ray continued to captivate enthusiasts until 1967 when the third-generation Corvette (C3) made its debut, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history.
In retrospect, the C2 Corvette Sting Ray remains a timeless symbol of American automotive ingenuity, blending style, power, and performance in a package that continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts worldwide. The legacy of the Sting Ray lives on, an enduring testament to the brilliance of Bill Mitchell's design and the spirit of innovation that defines the Corvette lineage. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | MOTORTREND | AMERICAN MUSCLE CAR MUSEUM | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Wednesday, March 13, 2024

This Odd Tiny British Sportscar has an American V8 drivetrain

Unique ONES - In the dynamic world of classic British sports cars, one gem shines with unparalleled power, a compact wheelbase, and a distinctive fiberglass body. Forget about the Sunbeam Tiger or the AC Ace; let's talk about the 1965 Griffith Series 200. This exceptional vehicle, born from the imagination of Jack Griffith, a Ford dealer from Long Island, New York, seamlessly blends British craftsmanship with American muscle.
The Griffith Series 200 exceptional vehicle, born from the imagination of Jack Griffith, a Ford dealer from Long Island, New York, seamlessly blends British craftsmanship with American muscle.. (Picture from: ClassicMotorSports)
Jack Griffith
, deeply immersed in SCCA racing, conceived the idea of a hybrid hot rod in 1963. He envisioned taking a British sports car, the TVR Grantura Mk. III, and giving it the heart of an American Ford V8 engine reminiscent of the legendary Shelby Cobra. In England, the transformation from a modest MG engine to a powerhouse Ford 289 birthed the TVR Griffith 200.
The Griffith Series 200's tiny fiberglass bodywork built on a modified TVR Grantura Mk. III chassis. (Picture from: Hemmings)
Debuting at the 1964 Boston Motor Show, the Griffith Series 200 aimed to outshine the Shelby Cobra in the U.S. market. Jack Griffith, the mastermind assembling the cars from exported kits, established a network of dealers to distribute this lightweight sports car. 
The Griffith Series 200's compact cabin features two racing bucket seats, a three-spoke wooden steering wheel, and a streamlined dashboard hosting instrument panels and gauges. (Picture from: ClassicMotorSports)
Limited to only 192 examples, the Griffith Series 200 rolled off the assembly line in Syosset, New York, on a modified TVR Grantura chassis, boasting a Ford V8 engine and a 4-speed manual transmission.
The Griffith Series 200 powered by a Ford V8 engine and a 4-speed manual transmission. (Picture from: ClassicMotorSports)
Despite its impressive specifications, the Griffith 200 wasn't without its challenges. Its short wheelbase, lightweight fiberglass body, and potent engine demanded skill and respect from drivers. Challenges included overheating engines, undercharging electrical systems, failing rear axles, and leaking gas tanks. It was a thrilling but demanding ride for those lucky enough to experience it.
Production of the Griffith Series 200 concluded in 1965 with only 192 unit ever made, marking the end of an era for this iconic British-American hybrid. (Picture from: Hemmings)
Production of the Griffith Series 200 concluded in 1965, making way for the TVR Griffith 400. Interestingly, all Griffith production shifted to the UK, exported to the US, and continued its legacy through the Griffith 600 under different ownership. Eventually, production came to a halt, marking the end of an era for this iconic British-American hybrid.
The Griffith Series 200 stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of its creator, Jack Griffith, and the fusion of British elegance with American muscle. (Picture from: ClassicMotorSports)
Looking back, the Griffith Series 200 stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of its creator, Jack Griffith, and the fusion of British elegance with American muscle. As an enduring symbol of the golden age of sports cars, the Griffith Series 200 occupies a special place in automotive history, leaving an indelible mark on enthusiasts who appreciate the marriage of power, style, and exhilarating performance.
In the realm of classic British sports cars, the 1965 Griffith Series 200 is not just a vehicle; it's a timeless tale of ambition, craftsmanship, and the thrilling marriage of British and American automotive excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HEMMINGS | CLASSICMOTORSPORTS | CLASSIC ]
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Monday, March 11, 2024

Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001: Unveiling the Timeless Classic in Automotive History

Unique ONES - Step into the world of classic sports cars, and you'll find a piece of automotive history that not only showcases the emblem of Stuttgart's renowned manufacturer but also boasts a series of unique designs that once dominated the racing scene. Take, for instance, a classic 1960s sports car, a masterpiece crafted by Wendler Karosserie, a specialist hailing from Reutlingen. 
The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 was crafted by Wendler Karosserie, based on an improved spider chassis for Porsche ambition to compete in the 24-hour Le Mans race with closed GT cars. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)
This company, essentially an extended Porsche workbench, stands out as a pioneer in lightweight construction and racing bodies, earning admiration from global automotive enthusiasts. Established in 1840, Wendler Karosserie, initially rooted in carriage and carriage construction, evolved over the years. By 1923, the company had transitioned into producing automobile bodies, marked by their distinctive designs, either in one-off productions or small series. 
The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 was a Le Mans coupé, distinct with a fixed roof structure and optimized aerodynamics. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)
The reputation of "Karosserie Wendler" extended beyond Reutlingen, with streamlined bodies for BMW and contributions to test vehicles by aerodynamics pioneer Wunibald Kamm. Post-war, while other specialists struggled to adapt to modernity, Wendler thrived. It even ventured into building pontoon-style VW convertibles in Reutlingen, closely resembling the open Porsche 356
The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 powered by the third expansion stage of the four-cylinder Type 547 developed by Ernst Fuhrmann with vertical shaft drive, four overhead camshafts and double ignition. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)
Wendler's expertise in sophisticated lightweight construction and tailor-made bodies caught the attention of major players, including Porsche. The collaboration resulted in the production of 550 1500 RS Spyder bodies, solidifying Wendler's role as a key supplier.
The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 featured a design akin to the well-known 718 RS 60 Spyder up to the shoulder line. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)
Porsche, impressed by Wendler's capabilities, sought their expertise in designing a closed GT racing car, giving birth to the Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001. This partnership continued as Wendler manufactured 90 Spyder bodies made of light alloy for Porsche. The collaboration endured through the evolution from the 550 to the further developed 718, leading to the creation of the RS 60 and RS 61 models.
The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 stands as a testament to the artistry and ingenuity that define this era. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)
In 1961, Porsche aimed to compete in the 24-hour Le Mans race with closed GT cars, and Wendler stepped up to the challenge. The result was a Le Mans coupé, distinct with a fixed roof structure and optimized aerodynamics. The Wendler RS, based on an improved spider chassis, was born, and the goal was set – Le Mans 1961.
The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 based on an improved spider chassis, was born, and the goal was set – Le Mans 1961. (Picture from: PF-Magazine)
The Le Mans coupé featured a design akin to the well-known 718 RS 60 Spyder up to the shoulder line. However, what set it apart was the fixed roof structure, ending with the B-pillar and a rear window, optimizing aerodynamics with the "smallest tear-off cross section."
The Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 while sat on display at the Automuseum Prototyp in Hamburg.. (Picture from: Dennis Matthies in Flickr)
Under the hood, the Wendler RS boasted the third expansion stage of the four-cylinder Type 547 engine. With vertical shaft drive, four overhead camshafts, and double ignition, this engine had evolved since its introduction in 1953, culminating in a 135 hp output at 7200 rpm in the W/RS-001. | XV7wt0pbnho |
As we delve into the intricacies of this classic sports car, it's clear that the Wendler-Porsche collaboration marked a significant chapter in automotive history. The melding of expertise, innovation, and a shared passion for racing resulted in a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide. In the realm of classic sports cars, the Wendler-Porsche W/RS-001 stands as a testament to the artistry and ingenuity that define this era. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PF-MAGAZINE | EGZOSTIVE ]
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Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Race Against Convention: Sir Jackie Stewart's Oddly Stylish Racing Companion!

The Ugly Duckling - In the dynamic world of racing cars, rules and standards rarely dictate the aesthetics; hence, we witness the emergence of unconventional and eccentric designs that defy the norm.
The Marcos Xylon GT, affectionately known as the 'Ugly Duckling,' contributed to its lightweight design, leading to remarkable success on the race track in the capable hands during its heyday in the 1960s. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
Adding a unique chapter to this narrative is the Marcos Xylon GT, affectionately known as the 'Ugly Duckling.' Even the renowned British racing maestro, Sir Jackie Stewart, found himself navigating the track in a vehicle deemed unique and unusual during the early years of his career in the 1960s. The intrigue deepens – what is this car, and how does it distinguish itself?
The Marcos Xylon GT with its unapologetic appearance, rolled off the assembly line in Dolgellau, Wales, designed by the accomplished Frank Costin between 1959 and 1960. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)
The 'Ugly Duckling,' with its unapologetic appearance, rolled off the assembly line in Dolgellau, Wales. Designed by the accomplished Frank Costin, famed for his work on Vanwalls and various Lotus sports racing cars, the car was a collaborative effort with Dennis and Peter Adams. Later, a small production run took place in Luton, immortalizing its peculiar presence.
The Marcos Mantis XP, another distinctively shaped car, emerged in 1968, crafted by the British automotive manufacturer, Marcos Engineering Ltd. (Picture from: Motor1)
The manufacturer, Marcos Engineering Ltd., a prominent name in the British automotive landscape during that era, has not only given us the 'Ugly Duckling' but also the Marcos Mantis XP, another racing marvel had explored in our earlier article.
The Marcos Xylon GT, once campaigned by Sir Jackie Stewart himself in the early years of his career during the 1960s. (Picture from: MarcosXylon)
Quoted from the Marcos-OC, the Xylon GT was purposefully crafted for 750 Motor Club events, featuring a wooden chassis, aptly named Xylon, derived from the Greek word meaning 'wood.' This unconventional choice contributed to its lightweight design, ultimately leading to remarkable success on the race track in the capable hands of Sir Jackie Stewart, Jem Marsh, and other racing luminaries.
The Marcos Xylon GT, once campaigned by Sir Jackie Stewart himself in the early years of his career during the 1960s. (Picture from: MarcosXylon)
Linked to the legendary vehicle once driven by Sir Jackie Stewart, the Marcos Xylon GT -  G128 with chassis #1003 was commissioned by Barry Filer. In the early '60s, the young Jackie Stewart showcased its prowess in North's club races during 1961 and 1962. Later, Jim Diggory took charge. 
The Marcos Xylon GT was purposefully crafted for 750 Motor Club events, featuring a wooden chassis, aptly named Xylon, derived from the Greek word meaning 'wood.' (Picture from: Pinterest)
In 1969, Jem Marsh discovered the car in a London Mews near Chris Lawrence's place, acquiring it for £250. Embarking on a restoration journey in the late '70s, Jem achieved monumental success, securing over 100 trophies and clinching three major Championships in HSCC races
The Marcos Xylon GT stands not only as a relic of the past but as a symbol of audacious design and pioneering innovation. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)
Beyond its distinctive appearance, the 'Ugly Duckling' boasts gull-wing style doors and a lofty roof profile, possibly catering to taller racers. This design trait, making Marcos cars a preferred choice for taller drivers, remains a hallmark even today.
The Marcos Xylon GT features iconic gull-wing style doors and a spacious roof profile, catering to the needs of taller racers. (Picture from: Stkone on Flickr)
Under the hood, the Xylon GT is powered by a Ford 105E engine paired with a four-speed gearbox, both sourced from Ford. Equipped with a pair of Weber carburettors, the 997 cc Ford engine delivers around 85 bhp. Standard hydraulic drums on all four corners provide stopping power, with front disc brakes available as an optional upgrade.
The distinctive appearance of the Marcos Xylon GT, making it a preferred choice for taller drivers, continues to be a hallmark to this day. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
Historical records suggest that only nine units of the original Xylon GT were crafted between 1959 and 1960. Although succeeded by more conventional cars, the Xylon GT retained its unique wooden chassis. Notably, it played a pivotal role in shaping the career of Sir Jackie Stewart, propelling him toward a remarkable three-time Formula 1 World Champion status.
The Marcos Xylon GT is propelled by a Ford 105E engine paired with a four-speed gearbox, both sourced directly from Ford. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)
In the ever-evolving automotive landscape, the 'Ugly Duckling' Xylon GT stands not only as a relic of the past but as a symbol of audacious design and pioneering innovation. It serves as a testament to Marcos Engineering's commitment to pushing boundaries and creating racing machines that transcend the ordinary. | kiTfGhNJ12o |
In conclusion, the 'Ugly Duckling' Xylon GT remains an iconic piece in the mosaic of racing history, reminding us that in the pursuit of speed and excellence, beauty often takes unconventional forms. As we celebrate the legacy of the Xylon GT, we acknowledge its significant role in the illustrious career of Sir Jackie Stewart, a testament to the enduring impact of unique racing creations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES  | MARCOSXYLON | MARCOS-OC | ULTIMATECARPAGE ]
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