1985 Cizeta Design Study by Marcello Gandini: A Forgotten Masterpiece

Less KNOWN - The automotive world has always been filled with iconic designs, with many shaping the future of sports cars. One name that stands out in this space is Marcello Gandini, an automotive designer renowned for creating some of the most revolutionary sports cars. His portfolio is extensive, but certain creations have gained legendary status.

The lesser-known Cizeta Design Study by Marcello Gandini was on display at the 2024 Car Design Event in Munich, held in April. (Picture from: uk.Motor1)

Among his most famous designs are the Lamborghini Miura, Lamborghini Countach, and Lancia Stratos. These vehicles defined an era and remain admired to this day. Gandini crafted these masterpieces during his time as the head designer at Bertone, a prestigious Italian design house. However, in 1980, he shifted to working independently, continuing to make his mark on the automotive world.

The lesser-known Cizeta Design Study by Marcello Gandini was on display at the 2024 Car Design Event in Munich, held in April. (Picture from: uk.Motor1)

Although Gandini is renowned for his extensive influence in car design, there is one project that often goes unnoticed. This particular work, still relatively unknown to the public, has yet to become a fully realized vehicle. In 1985, Gandini developed a design study that served as a precursor to what would eventually become the Lamborghini Diablo. Initially part of Lamborghini’s internal P132 Project, aimed at creating the successor to the Countach, this project, unlike his previous groundbreaking designs, lacked both an interior and an engine. Frustrated by Lamborghini’s slow progress in bringing the design to life, Gandini decided to offer the project to another manufacturer: Cizeta.

The lesser-known Cizeta Design Study by Marcello Gandini was on display at the 2024 Car Design Event in Munich, held in April. (Picture from: uk.Motor1)

After many years out of the spotlight, Gandini’s lesser-known design study made a surprising return. In April 2024, at the prestigious “Car Design Event” in Munich, the Cizeta Design Study resurfaced, captivating audiences once again with its bold and visionary design. It’s a reminder of Gandini’s enduring influence in the world of automotive design, where even his lesser-known works continue to inspire admiration.

The lesser-known Cizeta Design Study by Marcello Gandini was on display at the 2024 Car Design Event in Munich, held in April. (Picture from: uk.Motor1)

Cizeta, a relatively unknown name to many at the time, was founded by Claudio Zampolli in the late 1980s. Zampolli, an automotive engineer with deep roots in the industry, had worked on Lamborghini’s Countach project back in the 1970s. His partnership with Italian music producer Giorgio Moroder gave rise to the company, with Moroder backing the venture financially. In fact, the company’s name, Cizeta, is derived from the Italian pronunciation of Zampolli’s initials—CZ. Their shared ambition was to create a super sports car unlike any other.

The only V16T model bearing the Cizeta-Moroder name was a prototype powered by a 534.57 hp engine. (Picture from: RM Sothebys)

Rumors suggest that Lamborghini’s then-owners, Chrysler, were hesitant about Gandini’s design, considering it too extreme for the brand’s direction. As a result, Gandini’s final design for the P132, which was intended to become the Diablo, ended up being passed on to Cizeta. After three years of development, the prototype was unveiled at the 1988 Geneva Motor Show. Upon seeing the car, many couldn’t help but notice the similarities between it and the Diablo. This was no coincidence, as Gandini saw the Cizeta V16T as a prototype for the successor to the Countach.

Cizeta V16T supercar is built by Cizeta Automobili, the Italian automotive manufacturer based in Modena and designed by Marcello Gandini. (Picture from: Dyler)

However, even before the Cizeta-Moroder V16T went into production, Giorgio Moroder left the company, leaving Zampolli to continue on his own. The only model bearing the Cizeta-Moroder name was a prototype, which remained in Moroder’s possession after his departure in 1990. This prototype impressed those who saw it in action, particularly with its powerful 534.57 hp engine. Despite not entering full production, the Cizeta-Moroder V16T left a lasting legacy. In 2022, the prototype was auctioned off at RM Sotheby's for an impressive $1,363,500.

The design that Gandini had initially envisioned for Lamborghini ultimately came to life in the Cizeta V16T. This supercar, powered by a sixteen-cylinder engine, was a marvel of engineering. The engine, formed by combining two V8s with a single crankshaft, boasted eight camshafts. With a 6.0-liter engine mounted transversely near the rear axle, the V16T was a rare feat of design and performance. Only ten of these extraordinary machines were ever produced, making them some of the most unique supercars of the time. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DYLER | UK.MOTOR1 | EN.VMAX.SI | HYPEBEAST | RMSOTHEBYS ]

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The Untold Story Behind the Iconic Mini Marcos

Mini Marvel - In the aftermath of World War II, innovation in Britain flourished despite the challenges of reconstruction and scarcity. The automotive industry, particularly, became a space for creativity, with small car manufacturers emerging to fill niche markets. Among these was Marcos Cars, a company that combined daring designs with unique engineering, leaving a lasting impact on sports car history.

The 1965 Marcos Mini Mark I. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Marcos Cars was co-founded in 1959 by Jem Marsh and Frank Costin. The company’s name came from blending their surnames, symbolizing their partnership and shared vision. Marsh brought an adventurous spirit, while Costin, who had honed his design skills on aircraft like the de Havilland Mosquito, contributed engineering ingenuity. This synergy led to the creation of vehicles that stood out for their originality, including their early use of plywood monocoque frames.

The 1963 Dizzy Addicott DART racing car at Goodwood back in 2010. (Picture from: MaiximumMini)

The Marcos Mini, or Mini Marcos one of Marcos' most iconic creations, owes its origins to both the popularity of the BMC Mini and the creativity of test pilot Desmond “Dizzy” Addicott. Addicott, known for his eccentric ideas, modified a damaged Mini van into a streamlined sports car named the "DART." Though Addicott did not pursue mass production, his concept inspired Jem Marsh to develop a more refined version, which became the Marcos Mini GT.

The 1967 Marcos Mini Mark II with c.number: Nr7036. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)

Released in the mid-1960s, the Mini Marcos combined the agility of the Mini with a lightweight fiberglass body designed by Marcos engineers. The result was a car that performed exceptionally well both on the road and on the racetrack. Its racing debut in 1965 at Castle Combe was a resounding success, with a victory that highlighted its potential. Soon, the Mini Marcos was making waves internationally, even earning a place at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966.

The 1969 Marcos Mini Mark III. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Each iteration of the Mini Marcos showcased thoughtful improvements. From the original Mark I’s straightforward kit design, the Mark II for use as a road car was the fixed rear window which meant access to the rear luggage storage space was awkward to the Mark III’s addition of an opening rear hatch, the car evolved to meet customer needs. Later models like the Mark IV further enhanced its practicality and appeal, introducing features such as wind-up windows and a roomier interior.

The 1974 Marcos Mini Mark IV, with wind-up windows. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Marcos Cars wasn’t limited to the Mini Marcos. They ventured into other designs, including the Marcos GT and the controversial Marcos Mantis. However, financial challenges and limited sales led to the company’s closure in 1971. After a brief revival under new ownership, the Mini Marcos found renewed success, especially with the high-performance Mark IV. This version set multiple land speed records and achieved significant racing victories, solidifying its place in automotive history.

Even as time has passed, the legacy of Marcos Cars endures. The Mini Marcos, with its unique blend of engineering and style, remains a symbol of British creativity during a transformative era. Its journey from a humble concept to a record-breaking racer reflects the power of innovation and collaboration, ensuring that its story continues to inspire car enthusiasts worldwide. (To Be Continued with Midas). *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MARCOS-OC | WIKIPEDIA | MAXIMUM MINI | ARONLINE | SILODROME ]

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Jaguar's Bold EV Revolution

Electric Elegance - As the automotive industry continues its rapid evolution toward electrification, iconic brands are reimagining their identities to secure their positions in this new era. Jaguar, a name synonymous with sophistication and performance, has unveiled bold plans to redefine itself as a leader in ultra-luxury electric vehicles. At the heart of this transformation lies the Jaguar Design Vision Concept, a striking embodiment of the brand’s future. 

The striking Jaguar Design Vision Concept offers a glimpse into the first of three ultra-luxury electric vehicles set to redefine Jaguar's future. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Unveiled during the 2024 Miami Art Week, this concept provides a tantalizing glimpse into Jaguar's ambitious journey ahead. The Jaguar Design Vision Concept is not just a showcase of engineering prowess; it is an artistic statement. Its sleek and futuristic silhouette is a testament to Jaguar’s commitment to innovative design. The concept, a large fastback coupe, exudes elegance with its jet fighter-style canopy design. 

The Jaguar Design Vision Concept features simplified logos and sealed grille elements, embodying a clean and modern identity. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

The dramatic contours and fluid lines are complemented by a pair of rearward-opening doors, blending avant-garde aesthetics with practical sophistication. At the rear, horizontal grilles conceal the taillights, creating an intriguing interplay of form and function. This bold styling approach is a clear departure from Jaguar's traditional design language, signaling the dawn of a new era.

The Jaguar Design Vision Concept seamlessly combines engineering brilliance with artistic flair, showcasing a sleek, futuristic design that epitomizes innovation. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

One of the most notable aspects of the Design Vision Concept is its minimalist philosophy, both inside and out. The exterior, featuring simplified logos and sealed grille elements, reflects a clean, modern identity. This streamlined approach carries through to the interior, where functionality meets artistry.  

The Jaguar Design Vision Concept stands out for its minimalist philosophy, evident both inside and out. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

The cabin is dominated by a floating center console and an oval-shaped steering wheel. The absence of traditional digital screens suggests a reliance on augmented projection technology, further emphasizing Jaguar's forward-thinking ethos. Every detail is carefully curated to create an environment of understated luxury, perfectly aligned with the brand's ambitions.

The Jaguar Design Vision Concept meticulously curates every detail to create an environment of understated luxury, perfectly aligning with the brand's ambitions. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Beneath the captivating design lies a robust engineering foundation. Jaguar's commitment to electric innovation is epitomized by the JEA (Jaguar Electrified Architecture) platform, specifically developed to set its electric vehicles apart from competitors. This platform will underpin a trio of ultra-luxury EVs, starting with a four-door grand tourer slated for delivery in 2026.

The Jaguar Design Vision Concept extends this streamlined approach to the interior, where cutting-edge functionality seamlessly blends with artistic design. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

.Boasting an estimated range of 430 miles on the WLTP cycle and unprecedented power, this vehicle is poised to become Jaguar’s most powerful road car. The pricing, starting at approximately $163,000, underscores the brand’s shift toward the upper echelons of the automotive market.

The Jaguar Design Vision Concept's cabin is defined by a striking floating center console and an oval-shaped steering wheel, emphasizing modern elegance. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Jaguar’s vision extends beyond individual models to encompass an entirely reimagined brand identity. The company aims to rival the likes of Bentley and Maserati, leaving behind traditional competitors such as BMW and Audi. This strategic repositioning is accompanied by a phased withdrawal of current models in several markets, including the UK, as dealerships prepare for the arrival of the next-generation lineup. Jaguar's transition is as much about creating an emotional connection as it is about embracing technological innovation.

The Jaguar Design Vision Concept features horizontal grilles at the rear that cleverly conceal the taillights, creating a fascinating blend of form and function. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

The Design Vision Concept also introduces Jaguar’s "Exuberant Modernism" design philosophy. This new aesthetic marries contemporary sophistication with a passionate spirit, resulting in dynamic proportions and bold shapes. It is a philosophy that not only defines the vehicles themselves but also encapsulates the essence of Jaguar’s reinvention. Through the careful integration of modern technology and timeless artistry, Jaguar is setting the stage for a transformative era.

Jaguar has revealed a heavily camouflaged prototype, with styling that, from what is visible, seems more subdued compared to the concept. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

As the automotive landscape becomes increasingly competitive, Jaguar’s approach highlights the importance of adaptability and innovation. By focusing on exclusivity and cutting-edge design, the brand is carving out a niche that aligns with evolving consumer expectations. The transformation is not merely a response to market trends but a deliberate effort to redefine luxury and performance in the electric age.

Jaguar’s journey is a story of resilience and ambition. The Design Vision Concept is more than a glimpse of what lies ahead—it is a beacon of the brand's enduring legacy and future potential. With its bold designs, groundbreaking technology, and unwavering commitment to luxury, Jaguar is not only adapting to the new automotive era but is also shaping it, ensuring that its roar will be heard for generations to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | COCHESPIAS1 ON INSTAGRAM | CRUSHMEDIA.ID | CARSCOOPS | AUTOCAR | ID.MOTOR1 | MOTORAUTHORITY ]

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Pierce-Arrow: Redefining Luxury with Luigi Colani's Vision

Maestro Works - There is a certain allure to the revival of legendary automobile brands, especially those that once epitomized luxury and innovation. One such name is Pierce-Arrow, a historic marque that originated in Buffalo, New York. Established in 1901, Pierce-Arrow quickly became a symbol of opulence, producing exquisite vehicles that catered to the elite. Its reputation soared in 1909 when President William Taft selected two Pierce-Arrows as the first official cars for the White House, cementing its place in automotive history.

The 2007 Colani Pierce-Arrow prototype represents a bold revival of the iconic Pierce-Arrow marque, a brand long celebrated among the greats of automotive history. (Picture from: Cultobjects in X)

Alongside Packard and Peerless, Pierce-Arrow became known as one of the “Three P’s of Motordom,” an elite trio synonymous with excellence. Despite its acclaim, Pierce-Arrow focused exclusively on high-end automobiles, a decision that both distinguished it and limited its market. The company ceased operations in 1938, a victim of economic challenges and changing times. Here is one of Pierce-Arrow's legendary cars, the 1933 Silver Arrow.

However, the brand’s story didn’t end there. Decades later, in 2006, a Swiss initiative breathed new life into Pierce-Arrow, merging its storied legacy with cutting-edge innovation. The result was the Pierce-Arrow Colani Concept Car, a striking testament to modern design and engineering. The Colani Concept Car captures the essence of Pierce-Arrow’s illustrious past while reimagining its future.

The 2007 Colani Pierce-Arrow Concept Car embodies the legacy of Pierce-Arrow's illustrious past while boldly envisioning its future. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)

Designed by the renowned Luigi Colani, this car blends futuristic aesthetics with a nod to the brand's heritage. Its elongated form and unique cockpit placement evoke a sense of grandeur, reminiscent of the original Pierce Silver Arrow. The car's massive 10-liter, 24-cylinder engine harks back to the engineering marvels of earlier Pierce-Arrow models, such as the 1913 Model 66-A-3, which boasted a 13.5-liter inline-six engine. These elements reflect a harmonious balance between historical reverence and modern sophistication.

The 2007 Colani Pierce-Arrow prototype features an elongated form and unique cockpit placement, exuding grandeur reminiscent of the original Pierce Silver Arrow. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)

Colani’s vision extended beyond the car’s mechanical prowess. The Colani Concept Car’s bodywork, customized for each owner, offers unparalleled exclusivity. Buyers can choose designs ranging from timeless elegance to avant-garde futurism, ensuring that each vehicle is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. This bespoke approach continues Pierce-Arrow’s tradition of crafting vehicles that cater to the desires of discerning clients, a hallmark that once appealed to royalty, dignitaries, and prominent artists.

The 2007 Colani Pierce-Arrow prototype features a striking ornament of a metal woman figurine gracefully adorning its elongated, elegant hood. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)

The journey to revive Pierce-Arrow was spearheaded by Olaf vom Heu, a German enthusiast with a deep passion for the brand, who now serves as the CEO of the Pierce-Arrow Motor Company in Delaware, USA. Joining him was Reinhard Krätzig, who oversees the brand’s development from Germany. Their shared vision attracted Luigi Colani, whose creative genius brought the reborn Pierce-Arrow to life. The collaboration of these visionaries has not only resurrected a historic brand but also redefined what it means to create a luxury automobile in the 21st century.

The 2007 Colani Pierce-Arrow prototype powered by a massive 10-liter, 24-cylinder engine harks back to the engineering marvels of earlier Pierce-Arrow models. (Picture from: Pinterest)

In honor of Luigi Colani’s groundbreaking contributions to futuristic design, the Marta Herford Museum is hosting the "New Forms of the Future" exhibition. This exhibit features the unique Colani Pierce-Arrow prototype from 2007, offering visitors a chance to witness the seamless fusion of art and engineering. Running from December 1, 2024, to March 2, 2025, this exhibition is a tribute to Colani’s visionary work and his enduring influence on modern design.

The 2007 Colani Pierce-Arrow prototype upholds the brand's tradition of crafting bespoke vehicles that cater to the refined tastes of royalty, dignitaries, and prominent artists. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)

The rebirth of Pierce-Arrow is a celebration of its rich legacy and a bold step into the future. Each vehicle is a symbol of exclusivity and innovation, designed to meet the highest standards of craftsmanship and individuality. The Pierce-Arrow by Colani is more than a car; it is a statement of art and engineering, a fusion of the past and the future that promises to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Luigi Colani was photographed alongside his creation, the 2007 Colani Pierce-Arrow prototype, showcasing his visionary design. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)

In the realm of automotive history, few names carry the weight of Pierce-Arrow. Its revival is a testament to the enduring appeal of innovation, artistry, and luxury. As the Colani Concept Car ushers in a new era, it stands as a beacon of what is possible when visionaries unite to honor a legacy while daring to push boundaries. For those who seek the ultimate expression of personal style and performance, Pierce-Arrow remains a name to remember, a legend reborn for a new generation. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | COLANI.DE | BUBBLEMANIA.FR | DESIGNDIFFUSION | CULTOBJECTS IN X | WEIRDWHEELS | GTSPIRIT | CARAKOOM | CARSTYLINGRU | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC ]

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Iso Rivolta Fidia: A Unique Blend of Luxury and Speed

Rare GEMS - In the world of automotive history, the tale of the Iso Rivolta Fidia is a fascinating chapter that exemplifies the blend of aspiration and misfortune. In the early 1960s, Maserati carved out a niche for Italian sports saloons with the Quattroporte, paving the way for other manufacturers to follow suit. Among them was Iso, under the direction of Piero Rivolta, who aimed to introduce a luxurious yet speedy four-door vehicle into the market. 

The Iso Rivolta Fidia, originally designated the 'S4,' was crafted by the renowned designer Giorgetto Giugiaro and built by Carrozzeria Ghia. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

The Iso Rivolta Fidia, originally designated the 'S4,' was crafted by the renowned designer Giorgetto Giugiaro and built by Carrozzeria Ghia, capturing the imagination of car enthusiasts. However, despite its promising design and concept, the Fidia faced a series of challenges that hindered its success.

This is an image of an early production Iso Rivolta Fidia from one of the company’s period brochures. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The launch of the Iso Rivolta Fidia took place in Athens and quickly became notorious for its unfortunate circumstances. The car’s debut was marred by technical issues stemming from the local fuel, which did not meet the necessary octane requirements for the vehicle. Journalists driving the Fidia reported problems such as "horrible pinking," leading to negative reviews that stuck with the model long after its introduction. This incident tarnished the car's reputation right from the start, despite the excitement it initially generated.

Piero Rivolta resting on an Iso Rivolta IR300 – the first luxury GT car built by Iso. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The Fidia marked a significant milestone for Piero Rivolta, who took the helm of the company after his father, Renzo, passed away in 1966. It was Piero Rivolta's first project, and he envisioned a powerful saloon that would appeal to those seeking both performance and style. The initial models were equipped with a robust 5.4-litre Chevy V8 engine, delivering an impressive 355 horsepower and allowing the car to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in around seven seconds. However, in 1973, the Fidia transitioned to a 5.8-litre Ford V8 engine, producing 325 horsepower, which, while slightly less powerful, still maintained a respectable performance for the era.

In terms of design, the Iso Rivolta Fidia was a unique creation, showcasing a diverse range of influences that reflected the eclectic automotive styles of the late 1960s. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

In terms of design, the Fidia was a unique creation, showcasing a diverse range of influences that reflected the eclectic automotive styles of the late 1960s. Its bold front end drew comparisons to the Iso Grifo and the De Tomaso Mangusta, while the silhouette featured a rising window line, a prominent C-pillar, and a gracefully sloping rear. This combination of elements made the Fidia a visually striking vehicle, but also one that lacked the cohesive design language found in some of its competitors.

The interior of the car was as good or better than any luxury GT car in the world at the time, and many luxury features that were options in other cars came standard in the Fidia. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

The Frankfurt Motor Show in autumn 1967 served as the stage for the Fidia's debut, where it was initially referred to as the Iso Rivolta S4. Following the chaotic press launch in Athens, the name was changed to Fidia, a tribute to the ancient Greek sculptor Phidias. Despite the troubled launch, the car attracted attention from celebrities, including John Lennon, who famously purchased the second Fidia ever made. This was followed by other notable figures such as Pete Townshend, Sonny Bono, and James Last, all of whom contributed to the vehicle's cachet, even as it struggled in the market.

The Frankfurt Motor Show in autumn 1967 served as the stage for the Fidia's debut, where it was initially referred to as the Iso Rivolta S4. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

As production costs escalated, Rivolta found himself compelled to raise the Fidia's price, bringing it to a point where it competed with prestigious brands like Rolls-Royce. This pricing strategy proved to be a double-edged sword; while it positioned the Fidia among the elite, it also limited its accessibility to a broader audience. Ultimately, the Iso Rivolta Fidia production ended in 1974, with just over 190 units built, including a special edition featuring an interior inspired by the Iso Lele, introduced in 1969. | Gwf9xulmBkg |

Today, the Iso Rivolta Fidia stands as a sought-after collector’s item, cherished not only for its rarity but also for its unique place in automotive history. Its four seats may no longer offer the fastest experience on the road, but the charm of the Fidia lies in its rich backstory and the blend of innovation and misfortune that marked its journey. The Fidia serves as a reminder of a bold vision that, despite its challenges, captured the essence of an era defined by ambition and creativity in the world of luxury automobiles. *** [EKA } FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER | SILODROME ]

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Mazda Miata M-Coupe Concept: A Rare Gem

Rarely SEEN - For decades, enthusiasts have expressed a desire for the Mazda Miata to be offered in a coupe variant alongside its beloved roadster form. This vision was more than just a dream; it was once seriously considered by Tom Matano, the original designer of the Miata. Back in the 1990s, he presented the concept of a Miata coupe to Mazda’s upper management. The culmination of this vision was showcased in 1996 with the unveiling of the Miata M-Coupe Concept at the New York Auto Show.

A rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept developed by Mazda, and had debuted in 1996. (Picture from: GTPlanet)

The M Coupe garnered significant attention at the event, captivating the hearts of Miata fans and curious visitors alike. Powered by a 1.8-liter engine delivering 133 horsepower, the coupe stood as a striking alternative to the traditional roadster. Unfortunately, despite its appeal, the M-Coupe was never approved for production. The reasons for this remain frustratingly elusive, but it's rumored that the decision-makers at Mazda were not swayed by the excitement surrounding the concept. Four years later, the M-Coupe made a return to the New York Auto Show, but only because Mazda lacked other intriguing projects to display.

A rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept posed along with its creator Tom Matano (second from right) and his team. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)

For true Miata aficionados, a recent video by Savage Geese has brought this concept back to life. The video not only resurrects the M-Coupe but also features Tom Matano himself. Matano, who played a pivotal role in developing the original Miata in the 1980s, had a vision that extended beyond the roadster. In collaboration with product planner Bob Hall, he envisioned a family of Miata variants, which included both a coupe and a speedster. After the success of the first-generation Miata (NA), Matano crafted a full-size model of the coupe in 1992 and sent it to Japan for evaluation.

A rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept with a new design featured a fiberglass fixed roof, complemented by a subtle double-bubble design and generous rear glass. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack) (Picture from: Motor1)

In his interview, Matano elaborates on the rationale behind the M-Coupe. He aimed to demonstrate that the Miata could thrive as more than just a roadster. The new design featured a fiberglass fixed roof, complemented by a subtle double-bubble design and generous rear glass. He also modified the rear fenders, raising them to harmonize with the new proportions of the vehicle. While the M-Coupe retained its 1.8-liter engine, a Remus exhaust system was one of the few modifications made to the powertrain.

Inside of a rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept, unique touches included custom seats adorned with M logos, suede door panels, and Momo pedals and gearshift. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)

The interior of the M-Coupe showcased the advantages of a fixed roof. Without the need for a folding mechanism, Matano's design allowed for a parcel shelf, enhancing the overall storage capacity. Inside, unique touches included custom seats adorned with M logos, suede door panels, and Momo pedals and gearshift. The distinctive double-bubble roof, though made of fiberglass, contributed to a sleek aesthetic without significantly increasing the car’s rigidity. The altered proportions and the new custom rear window and modified bumper added to the vehicle's appeal.

A rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept powered by 1.8-liter engine, mated a Remus exhaust system was one of the few modifications made to the powertrain. (Picture from: GTPlanet)

While today's Miata models, such as the ND generation, have embraced innovative designs like the RF targa, the classic notion of a non-folding hardtop remains tantalizing. Many Miata enthusiasts have opted to create their own coupes by installing fiberglass roofs. This process is not overly complicated or costly, though it may lead to minor issues like extra panel gaps, which can be bothersome for those who appreciate meticulous craftsmanship.

A rarely-seen Mazda Miata (NA) M-Coupe Concept featured a fiberglass fixed roof, complemented by a subtle double-bubble design and generous rear glass.. (Picture from: GTPlanet)

Mazda's past explorations into alternative Miata designs remind us of the brand's innovative spirit and commitment to the enthusiast community. The Miata remains a symbol of automotive joy, and the concept of a coupe variant continues to capture the imagination of fans around the world. 

As we look ahead, the legacy of the Miata, with its combination of simplicity, performance, and open-air driving, leaves us wondering what new iterations and designs could emerge in the future. The Miata story is far from over, and as long as there are enthusiasts dreaming of coupes, the spirit of innovation and excitement will keep it alive. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SAVAGE GEESE | MIATA IN REDDIT | MOTOR1 | ROADANDTRACK | GTPLANET ]

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