UNIQUE ONES - The 1980s was a vibrant period for automotive design, and few cars encapsulated this spirit of experimentation quite like the the Sbarro Challenge III. Building on the legacy of its predecessors, the Challenge I and Challenge II, this remarkable creation by the visionary Swiss designer Franco Sbarro exemplified the futuristic energy and audacity that defined the decade's supercar landscape.
The Sbarro Challenge III, created by the inventive Swiss designer Franco Sbarro, embodied the futuristic energy and audacity that defined the supercar landscape of the decade. (Picture from: TopCarRating)
The first of the series, the Challenge I, was introduced in 1985 and featured a Mercedes 500 V8 engine boosted by twin IHI turbochargers, producing an impressive 350 horsepower. This power, combined with a unique aerodynamic design, allowed the Challenge I to exceed speeds of 300 km/h. A notable feature of the Challenge I was its four-wheel drive system, a rarity for sports cars at the time. The innovative handling system took inspiration from the Audi Quattro and Porsche 959, paving the way for advanced automotive engineering.
The first Challenge posed alongside its creator, Franco Sbarro, while on display during its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in 1985. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
In 1986, Sbarro unveiled the Challenge II at the Geneva Motor Show. This model featured significant modifications, including the addition of two extra seats and a redesigned dashboard. The Challenge II was equipped with a 300-horsepower Porsche 930 turbo engine, transitioning to rear-wheel drive and a manual five-speed gearbox. Its striking gradient paint job done by Andréini, who had already made a name for himself on the Sbarro Super Twelve, transitioning from red at the rear to grey at the front, made it an eye-catching entry into the supercar arena.
The Sbarro Challenge I, finished in pearly white, features several modifications, including a cover over the rear wheels for improved aerodynamics, a different front bumper and headlights, and a lower rear air intake.. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
The Sbarro Challenge III, which debuted after its predecessors, continued this trend of innovation. It featured a powerful 3.3-liter engine sourced from the Porsche 911 Turbo series, capable of producing an astounding 400 horsepower. This formidable engine allowed the Challenge IIIto accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of 320 km/h. Weighing around 2,200 pounds, thanks to its lightweight fiberglass body, the Challenge III felt lively and responsive on the road, amplifying the thrill of every drive.
The Porsche-spotted Challenge II or Challange 2+2, with its red-grey gradient paintwork by Andréini, who did a similar job on the Super Twelve. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
The design of the Challenge III was striking and futuristic. Its wedge-shaped body featured sharp angles and a low, wide stance, making it stand out from the smoother designs of other supercars of the era. Equipped with unique scissor doors and a canopy-style cockpit, the vehicle's aesthetic resembled something from a sci-fi movie. This unconventional design was not just for looks; it highlighted Sbarro’s commitment to pushing beyond traditional automotive standards.
The front end of the Sbarro Challenge III #7, a Porsche-powered version registered in Spain, appears to plunge into the asphalt. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
Inside the Challenge III, the forward-thinking vision continued. The interior was clean and minimalist, emphasizing functionality over luxury and focusing on the driver’s experience. Sbarro's use of composite materials ensured durability while contributing to the car's lightweight construction. The aerodynamics were finely tuned, with features such as a rear wing acting as an air brake to enhance stability at high speeds.
The
Sbarro Challenge III #7, registered in Spain, and differed from its predecessor in that its engine, still of Porsche 930 turbo origin, was increased to 3.3 liters and developed 400 horsepower. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
Produced in extremely limited numbers, the Sbarro Challenge III was more of a concept car brought to life than a mass-produced vehicle. Each unit was meticulously handcrafted, reflecting Franco Sbarro’s vision of merging art with engineering. The car was not intended for the mass market but rather for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciated its unique blend of design and performance.
The Sbarro Challenge III featured a camera replacing the rear-view mirror, a system first introduced in 1985, positioned above the left-hand rear light. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
Overall, with only ten units of the Challenge series ever built, it became an exclusive piece of automotive history. And the Challenge IIIpriced at around $150,000—a considerable sum at the time—the car was clearly aimed at a discerning audience of collectors and enthusiasts who valued rarity and exceptional craftsmanship. The high production cost, combined with the complexity of assembly, made this car a true collector’s item. | AAr_MrTXCSQ |
The Sbarro Challenge series may not have achieved mainstream fame, but its bold design and innovative approach ensure it holds a distinct place in the legacy of 1980s supercars. Its rarity and the visionary spirit behind its creation make it a fascinating chapter in the automotive
stories of the era. Today, the Challenge series continues to captivate car enthusiasts, representing a time when creativity and engineering merged to create something truly exceptional. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES |SBARRO.PHCALVET.FR | TOCARRATING | CARSTYLING.RU | ]
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Bold Artistry- In the ever-evolving world of automotive design, concept cars have always played a crucial role in shaping the future. These unique creations often serve as a bold canvas for innovation, daring aesthetics, and technological exploration. Some of the most captivating concept cars were born from partnerships between automakers and legendary design houses, where boundaries were pushed, and artistry met engineering. Among these unforgettable creations, one name continues to resonate through time: the Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale designed by Leonardo Fioravanti and debuted at the 1968 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Debuting in 1968 at the prestigious Geneva Motor Show, the Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale wasn’t just another showpiece—it was a daring vision of what the future could look like. The car stood out immediately with its radical styling and futuristic lines, representing a marriage of performance-driven purpose and avant-garde design philosophy. It was the result of a fruitful collaboration between Ferrari and the Italian design house Pininfarina, a partnership that has birthed some of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale was constructed on a P4 chassis and used a mid-mounted 3-liter V12 engine. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
At the heart of this concept was a young and talented designer from Pininfarina, Leonardo Fioravanti, who was only 29 years old at the time. Despite his youth, Fioravanti’s work on the P5 displayed a level of sophistication and foresight that would influence Ferrari’s design language for decades. The sleek body, flowing lines, and aerodynamic emphasis reflected his vision of a car that was not only fast but also beautiful in motion and at rest.
The 1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale's interior was dominated in red and black colors. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Built on the chassis of the Ferrari 330 P4, a race car known for its prowess on the track, the 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale brought performance engineering into the realm of conceptual elegance. Under the rear glass canopy sat a mid-mounted 3-liter V12 engine—an engineering choice that underscored Ferrari's racing heritage. What truly made the car stand out, though, was its pair of gull-wing doors, an unconventional feature for a Ferrari. Even today, such doors remain rare in the marque’s lineup, giving the P5 an added touch of exclusivity and theatrical flair.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale also has a glass-covered its mid-engine and styling that was low and curvy. (Picture from: en.WheelsAge.org)
One of the most striking aspects of the car was its transparent engine cover. In 1968, the idea of displaying an engine through a pane of glass was virtually unheard of, yet this daring feature would eventually become common in modern Ferraris. The low-slung, curvaceous silhouette further emphasized the car’s futuristic intentions, making it both an artistic sculpture and a mechanical marvel.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta featured the gull-wing doors which are something unusual for a Ferrari until now. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale was never meant for production, but its influence reached beyond its one-off status. Just a year later, Pininfarina applied similar design cues to another striking prototype—the Alfa Romeo 33/2 Coupé Speciale—which made its debut in Paris. This continuity in design language was a testament to the creative synergy between Pininfarina and the brands it collaborated with, particularly Ferrari.
Over five decades have passed since the P5’s unveiling, yet it remains a powerful reminder of the creative possibilities that emerge when vision and craftsmanship align. The car may never have roared down a public road, but it sped into the imaginations of enthusiasts and designers around the world. Its legacy lives on, not only through its design influences but also in the enduring collaboration between Ferrari and Pininfarina—a partnership built on passion, precision, and the pursuit of beauty. *** [EKA [27042020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TOP SPEED | CONCEPTCARZ | CLASSIC CARS FANDOM | SUPERCARNOSTALGIA | ALLCARINDEX | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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Visionary Craftsmanship - The automotive world is a space where creativity, ambition, and engineering meet to create machines that are more than just vehicles—they are works of art and innovation. Among the countless stories of iconic automobiles and their makers, one brand that offers a fascinating blend of artistry and aspiration is Hispano Alemán. This Spanish manufacturer left its mark not through mass production but through unique and ambitious projects like the Hispano Alemán Scirocco. While its story is less well-known, it carries the charm of a visionary era in car design.
This is the sole known image of the Hispano Alemán Scirocco during its debut at the 1970 Barcelona Motor Show. (Picture from: Motodinoza)
The Hispano Alemán company was the brainchild of Werner Bernhard Heiderich, better known as Ben Heiderich, an individual whose life journey was as dynamic as the cars he sought to create. A former U.S. Air Force serviceman, Heiderich made Spain his home and ventured into the automotive industry in the late 1960s. Starting with a business named "International Motors," he catered to an eclectic clientele that included American military personnel, resident tourists, and diplomats. This venture laid the groundwork for his foray into crafting his own car brand, inspired by his growing understanding of what car enthusiasts sought in both performance and design.
The story of the Hispano Alemán Scirocco began with German coachbuilder Dieter Kohlmus, who designed its prototype (later known as the Kohlmus Scirocco) using the innovative NSU TT 1200 and its 1177cc engine. (Picture from: Motodinoza)
The Hispano Alemán Scirocco was one of Heiderich's most intriguing creations, standing alongside other notable models such as the Mallorca Buggy, his early success with 500 units produced, the Vizcaya introduced in 1971, and the Castilla unveiled in 1972.. First showcased in 1970 at the Barcelona Motor Show, the Scirocco was a compact, sporty vehicle that turned heads with its bold gull-wing doors and sleek fiberglass body.
The Kohlmus Scirocco prototype sat on display at the Museum Autovision in Altlußheim, a small town in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Interestingly, the story of this car did not begin with Heiderich but with a German coachbuilder, Dieter Kohlmus. As the proprietor of Munich-based Kohlmus Kunststofftechnik KG, Kohlmus developed the prototype using the NSU TT 1200, a highly innovative compact car. The NSU TT's 1177cc 4-cylinder engine and sporty foundation provided an ideal platform for Kohlmus's ambitious vision.
The Kohlmus Scirocco prototype (pictured here as the rare 1972 model) was initially developed by Dieter Kohlmus, owner of the Munich-based company Kohlmus Kunststofftechnik KG, in collaboration with Rudolf Thurner.(Picture from: Story Cars on Instagram)
The Kohlmus Scirocco, as it was initially known, was a striking example of 1970s design ambition. The lightweight fiberglass body combined with the NSU engine delivered a balance of style and performance. However, when the collaboration between Kohlmus and his partner Rudolf Thurner dissolved, the car’s path took an unexpected turn. Kohlmus revised the car’s rear, creating his version, while Thurner marketed his own variant, the Thurner RS. Despite these efforts, production for the Kohlmus Scirocco ceased in 1973 after just a handful of units.
The Kohlmus Scirocco was the only model produced, designed as a sleek coupé featuring distinctive gull-wing doors that drew comparisons to the iconic Porsche 904. (Picture from: Story Cars on Instagram)
At some point, Werner Heiderich acquired the rights to the Scirocco project, seeing in it the potential to create something extraordinary under the Hispano Alemán banner. After presenting the car in Spain, he dismantled and modified it, tweaking its design to align with his vision. However, the project never moved beyond this stage. The reasons remain unclear, but this promising collaboration did not result in the mass production Heiderich may have envisioned. The Scirocco's story as a Hispano Alemán model ended as an ambitious prototype that highlighted the challenges of independent car manufacturing in an industry dominated by established giants.
The body of the Kohlmus Scirocco was crafted from glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), a lightweight yet durable material ideal for enhancing performance and aerodynamics. (Picture from: Story Cars on Instagram)
Though the Scirocco did not achieve commercial success, its legacy endures as a testament to the determination and creativity of smaller manufacturers during a transformative period in automotive history. Heiderich's broader contributions to the automotive world, including his representation of brands like Porsche, Lamborghini, and BMW in Spain, further reflect his passion for high-performance vehicles and his deep understanding of car enthusiasts’ desires.
The Kohlmus Scirocco prototype was powered by a 1177cc 4-cylinder engine, paired with a sporty design that perfectly embodied the automaker's ambitious vision. (Picture from: Story Cars on Instagram)
The Hispano Alemán Scirocco might not have reached the production lines, but its story is a reminder of the bold ideas that drive the automotive industry forward. Visionaries like Heiderich and Kohlmus dared to dream beyond the limitations of their time, leaving behind creations that continue to inspire admiration and curiosity. While the roads may never have seen fleets of Hispano Alemán Sciroccos, the singular prototype represents a unique intersection of innovation, collaboration, and ambition—qualities that define the spirit of the automobile. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | STORY CARS ON INSTAGRAM | AUTOPASSION18 | MOTODINOZA | BLOG.TARANEA.ES | DRIVE2.RU | COTXESCL-CP513 | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTS CAR ]
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Artisanal Velocity - When it comes to rare and beautifully crafted automobiles, some names instantly spark recognition—Ferrari, of course, being one of them. But what happens when a legendary automaker joins forces with one of Italy’s most historic design houses? You get something truly extraordinary. In an automotive world overflowing with badges and horsepower wars, a unique creation like the Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato reminds us that craftsmanship and exclusivity still reign supreme. This isn’t just another limited-edition supercar—it’s a true coach-built masterpiece that blends performance with artisanal flair in a way few modern cars can match.
2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. (Picture from: TominiClassics)
At first glance, the name itself stirs curiosity. Nibbio, the Italian word for eagle, seems like an odd companion to Ferrari’s prancing horse. It’s not hard to imagine someone pausing in confusion upon seeing this sleek machine glide by, wondering aloud, “Is that a Ferrari or... something else?” And that’s exactly the point. This is a car designed to disrupt assumptions. It isn’t just a Ferrari—it’s a Ferrari transformed through the eyes of Zagato, a company whose legacy stretches back over a century.
2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. ((Picture from: TominiClassics)
Founded by Ugo Zagato in 1919 in Milan, Zagato started as a coach-building workshop with an eye for aerodynamic innovation and racing pedigree. The brand quickly became synonymous with lightweight construction, flowing lines, and race-ready elegance. Over the decades, Zagato partnered with legendary marques like Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, and Lancia—each collaboration producing cars that have become coveted collectors’ pieces. One of Zagato’s most recognizable features is the double-bubble roof, an aesthetic and functional signature that has graced countless iconic designs.
Fast forward to 2007, and the magic of Zagato was called upon once more—this time by a private client with impeccable taste and a desire for something truly bespoke. The challenge: take Ferrari’s 599 GTB Fiorano, already a marvel of engineering, and reimagine it into an ultra-exclusive, hand-built work of art. The result was the Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato—a name that now holds a mythical status among enthusiasts and collectors alike.
2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. (Picture from: TominiClassics)
Mechanically, this rare gem retains Ferrari’s roaring 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, pumping out a muscular 612 horsepower and 448 lb-ft of torque. With this powerhouse under the hood, the GTZ maintains the exhilarating performance DNA of its base model. But what sets it apart is everything on the outside—and inside—that makes it unmistakably Zagato.
Only nine units were ever produced, making the 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato one of the most limited Ferrari models in existence. Of those nine, eight were equipped with Ferrari’s F1-style paddle-shift gearbox. The single most visually distinct example wears a stunning two-tone livery known as Blue Cavallino, featuring a deep, moody blue body contrasted by a crisp white roof. This color combination, along with the reshaped body panels and signature Zagato design cues, gives the car a presence that’s impossible to ignore.
2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. (Picture from: TominiClassics)
Step inside, and you’re greeted with an interior that feels both familiar and uniquely personalized. While the core cabin architecture is Ferrari’s own, Zagato reupholstered the space in luxurious blue leather, elevating the ambiance to something closer to a grand tourer than a raw sports machine. Every surface feels intentional, every stitch a nod to bespoke craftsmanship.
Even by today’s standards, nearly two decades after its debut, the Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato still turns heads—not just for its rarity, but because it represents a meeting of minds between two of Italy’s most revered automotive houses. It’s not just about speed or styling; it’s about legacy, design philosophy, and the quiet confidence of owning something that few others ever will.
In 2019, one of these exquisite machines reportedly sold for a staggering $1.5 million. And while its price may rise and fall in collector markets, its significance as a one-off vision of Italian excellence is timeless. The Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato isn’t merely a car—it’s a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the enduring allure of true automotive artistry. *** [EKA [04122020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DRIVETRIBE | TOMINICLASSICS | ]
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Iconic Masterpiece - In the world of custom cars, few vehicles stand out like the Templeton Saturn. Known also as the Bob Hope Special Roadster, this one-of-a-kind masterpiece has earned a place in automotive history for its striking design and unique backstory. Built for Lloyd Templeton, a man with a deep passion for innovation, the Templeton Saturn is a symbol of the creative spirit that defined mid-20th century American car culture. Its fascinating history, design, and recognition in prestigious car events make it a legendary figure in the automotive world.
The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn is a mix of Chrysler, Chevrolet, Dodge, Pontiac and Hudson, was all the craze at auto shows back in the 1950s. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The Templeton Saturn’s story begins in Hollywood, California, when Templeton, seeking a distinctive custom car, entrusted its creation to skilled designers and craftsmen. The vehicle’s most notable feature is its one-off status, meaning no other car like it exists in the world. The vehicle gained further fame when Bob Hope, the legendary comedian, drove it while appearing in a movie, giving it the nickname "Bob Hope Special Roadster." Though the car’s true identity remained a mystery to many, its sleek and stylish design made it an unforgettable sight.
The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn's body, a mix of curves and flat surfaces, features a lengthened Chrysler hood, a Mercury windshield, and rear fenders from a ’46 Chevy, creating a unique and eye-catching appearance.(Picture from: Autoevolution)
At the heart of the Templeton Saturn is a ’48 239.4 Cubic Inch Flathead V8 engine, equipped with two Stromberg 94 Carburetors and Speedway Heads. The engine, paired with a manual transmission, provided a thrilling driving experience that matched the car’s bold exterior. Its body, a mixture of curves and flat surfaces, is another defining characteristic. The Chrysler hood, lengthened and modified for a more streamlined look, along with the Mercury windshield and rear fenders made from a ’46 Chevy, contributed to the car’s unique and eye-catching appearance. Even the rear deck lid, borrowed from a Hudson hood, added to the car’s one-of-a-kind nature. Meanwhile, the grille, a cut-down version of a ’48 Dodge, and bumpers from a ’46 Pontiac, completed the vehicle’s distinctive exterior.
The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn features a cockpit-style interior inspired by aviation design, with multiple gauges, mostly period Stewart Warner dials, with various knobs and switches added a layer of sophistication.(Picture from: Autoevolution)
Inside, the Templeton Saturn’s cockpit-style interior was inspired by aviation design, featuring multiple gauges, mostly period Stewart Warner dials, with a white-on-black color scheme. The various knobs and switches added a layer of sophistication, giving the driver the feeling of being in control of a high-performance machine. This thoughtful attention to detail in both the exterior and interior design made the Saturn stand out as a true work of art, not just a car.
The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn features a cabin designed to accommodate two passengers, with an elegant white-on-black color scheme enhancing its stylish interior.(Picture from: Autoevolution)
Lloyd Templeton named the car the "Templeton Saturn" after himself, with "Saturn" symbolizing its ability to outpace the cars of its time. This was a fitting name for a vehicle that continuously received accolades across the United States. From the Pan Pacific Auditorium in California to the 1952 Speedarama Show in Minneapolis, the Templeton Saturn impressed crowds with its design and performance. Its fame only grew as it made appearances at notable events, including a display at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, where it was featured as the "Car of Tomorrow."
The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn is powered by a ’48 239.4 Cubic Inch Flathead V8 engine with two Stromberg 94 Carburetors and Speedway Heads, paired with a manual transmission to deliver a thrilling driving experience that complements its bold exterior.(Picture from: Autoevolution)
The Templeton Saturn’s legacy continues to this day. In 2012, the car was invited to the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, cementing its place among the most celebrated vehicles in automotive history. It also received an in-depth 12-pages feature in MotorTrend Classic Winter 2012 Edition, further solidifying its status as a collectible and a milestone in American automotive history. The Templeton Saturn is not just a car; it is a symbol of creativity, craftsmanship, and a bygone era of American ingenuity.
In the end, the Templeton Saturn stands as a testament to the vision of its creator, Lloyd Templeton, and the golden age of custom car culture in America. Its unique design, history, and influence in automotive circles ensure that this one-of-a-kind roadster will continue to captivate car enthusiasts and collectors for generations to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOEVOLUTION | JAMESEDITION ]
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Canopy Revolution - The golden age of American automotive design was an era of experimentation, innovation, and bold creativity. During the early 1950s, manufacturers were eager to captivate the public with concept cars that showcased futuristic designs and advanced engineering. Packard, one of the most prestigious names in luxury automobiles, was no exception. Among the standout creations of that time was the 1953 Packard Balboa-X—a concept car that not only turned heads but also embodied the visionary design principles of Richard A. Teague.
The Packard Balboa-X—a concept car that turned heads and embodied Richard A. Teague's visionary design principles for a revolutionary hardtop. (Picture from: Supercarsnet)
Teague, a name later synonymous with American Motors’ distinctive styling, was still carving his reputation in the early 1950s. Having started his career at General Motors, where he worked on Oldsmobile and Cadillac designs, Teague moved to Packard in 1952. Under the direction of Edward Macauley, the head of styling at Packard, he was given a simple yet challenging task by the company’s president, James Nance: create a hardtop roof that would stand apart from anything else on the road. His solution was the revolutionary "Canopy Top," a design that would influence future automotive styling for years to come.
The Packard Balboa-X, initially known as “Project Rooftop,” featured a radical design that later influenced the Packard Predictor, 1958 Lincoln, and Mercury Breezeway models. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
The defining feature of the Balboa-X was its striking C-pillar, which extended rearward with a reversed back angle, providing both an aesthetic statement and functional benefits. The overhang at the rear served as protection for the nearly vertical rear glass, shielding it from sunlight, rain, and snow. This radical design, originally known within Packard as “Project Rooftop,” would later inspire elements seen on the Packard Predictor, as well as the 1958 Lincoln and Mercury Breezeway models.
The Packard Balboa-X, built as a showpiece to showcase its new roofline concept, was based on the limited-production 1953 Caribbean convertible and retained much of its exterior and interior features.(Picture from: Crastyling.ru)
Packard built the Balboa-X as a showpiece to exhibit this new roofline concept. Based on the limited-production 1953 Packard Caribbean convertible, the Balboa-X retained much of the Caribbean’s exterior and interior features. It was painted in Packard Ivory below the beltline, with a deep maroon color adorning the distinctive hardtop. The interior, finished in maroon and white leather, featured embroidered Packard crest medallions on the seatbacks, adding a touch of exclusivity. Other notable design elements included a continental spare tire and chrome trim details that further emphasized the car’s luxury appeal.
The Packard Balboa-X featured a maroon and white leather interior with embroidered Packard crest medallions on the seatbacks, enhancing its exclusivity. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
While Packard’s official records suggest that the modifications to the Balboa-X were performed in-house, there is evidence that Creative Industries of Detroit—a key prototype builder for many major automakers—was responsible for the construction of the roof panel and other enhancements. Such outsourcing was a common practice among Detroit manufacturers, allowing them to experiment with unique designs without burdening their own production facilities. Despite this, Packard took full credit for the work, a move not unusual in the industry at the time.
The Packard Balboa-X featured a striking C-pillar that extended rearward with a reversed back angle, blending bold aesthetics with functional benefits. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Debuting in the spring of 1953 alongside the production Caribbean, the Balboa-X was met with enthusiasm. It toured the auto show circuit, impressing both the public and industry insiders. The car’s reception was so positive that it was given minor updates for the 1954 model year and continued to be displayed for another season. One particularly interesting feature was the claim that the rear window could be electrically operated—allowing it to be raised or lowered. However, due to time constraints, this functionality was never actually developed, leaving the glass fixed in place.
The Packard Balboa-X had a rear overhang that protected its nearly vertical rear glass from sunlight, rain, and snow. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Once its time as a showpiece ended, the Balboa-X found its way into the hands of Richard Teague himself. Over the years, it passed through several private collectors and remains in excellent condition today. Interestingly, a second Balboa was also created. Don Mitchell of Mitchell-Bentley, the company responsible for trimming the original Balboa, was so taken with the design that he commissioned a similar modification on another Caribbean, ensuring that the legacy of the Balboa concept lived on in more than one form. | HXdRLlj3vMM |
The 1953 Packard Balboa-X remains a remarkable piece of automotive history—a concept car that exemplified Teague’s ability to push the boundaries of design while maintaining Packard’s reputation for elegance and sophistication. Though it never saw production, its influence can be traced in later designs across the industry. Today, the Balboa-X stands as a testament to an era when car designers had the freedom to dream big, shaping the future of automobiles in ways that still inspire enthusiasts and collectors alike. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUE SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | MACSMOTORCITYGARAGE | CARSTYLING.RU | CONCEPTCARZ ]
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The first of the series, the Challenge I, was introduced in 1985 and featured a Mercedes 500 V8 engine boosted by twin IHI turbochargers, producing an impressive 350 horsepower. This power, combined with a unique aerodynamic design, allowed the Challenge I to exceed speeds of 300 km/h. A notable feature of the Challenge I was its four-wheel drive system, a rarity for sports cars at the time. The innovative handling system took inspiration from the Audi Quattro and Porsche 959, paving the way for advanced automotive engineering.
The Sbarro Challenge series may not have achieved mainstream fame, but its bold design and innovative approach ensure it holds a distinct place in the legacy of 1980s supercars. Its rarity and the visionary spirit behind its creation make it a fascinating chapter in the automotive
stories of the era. Today, the Challenge series continues to captivate car enthusiasts, representing a time when creativity and engineering merged to create something truly exceptional. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SBARRO.PHCALVET.FR | TOCARRATING | CARSTYLING.RU | ]
