Presidential Precision: Boano's Craftsmanship for Juan Perón

Unique ONES - In the wake of World War II's turbulence, the world of coachbuilding faced its own set of challenges. Once the exclusive domain of third-party artisans, the landscape shifted as manufacturers began unveiling their luxury car designs directly from their own styling houses. This change posed a significant hurdle for traditional coachbuilders seeking exclusive contracts.

The Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM (Competizione Maggiorata) by Boano Torino commissioned in 1954 for the President of Argentina, Juan Domingo Perón. (Picture from: VeloceToday)

Among these artisans was Boano Turino, a dynamic Italian coachbuilt workshop founded in 1954 in Turin by Mario Boano and his son Gianpaolo. Despite its relatively short existence, Boano swiftly gained recognition for its original designs and collaborations with prestigious European and American brands. Mario Boano's wealth of experience, garnered from renowned firms like Pininfarina and Ghia, played a crucial role in shaping the company's trajectory.

The Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM Coupe with Colli bodywork, which the Argentinian Juan Manuel Fangio raced at Le Mans in 1953, provided the chassis for the Boano coupe. (Picture from: Auto.cz)

Boano's ascent to prominence was propelled by its groundbreaking work on the Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM (Competizione Maggiorata). Commissioned in 1954 for the President of Argentina, Juan Perón, this sleek masterpiece captivated the automotive world with its impressive speed and craftsmanship, firmly establishing Boano as a leading force in car design.

The Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM Spyder with Colli bodywork was powered by a 3.5-liter straight-six engine, one of which clinched victory at the 1953 Supercortemaggiore. (Picture from: Auto.cz)

The genesis of the 3000 CM can be traced back to Alfa Romeo's pursuit of the ultimate race car, rooted in the pre-war 6C 1750 and later 6C 2500 SS models. However, the 3000 CM boasted a larger 3.5-liter engine, nearly doubling the horsepower of its predecessor. Equipped with independent suspension on a shortened wheelbase, it showcased Alfa Romeo's commitment to high-performance racing.

The President of Argentina, Juan Domingo Peròn testing his new car at the Autodromo de Buenos Aires in 1955. (Picture from: VeloceToday)

Several coupes crafted by Carrozzeria Colli for the 1953 Mille Miglia showcased the 3000 CM's prowess, with one securing a remarkable second-place finish overall. Despite stiff competition from Lancia and Ferrari, the 3000 CMs demonstrated their speed at Le Mans, achieving a top speed of 154 mph on the Mulsanne Straight, although all ultimately retired from the race.

The Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM Boano coupe had a wheelbase of 2,250 mm and a front and rear wheel track of 1,310 mm. (Picture from: Auto.cz)

Post-Le Mans, Colli also crafted several spiders for Alfa Romeo, one of which clinched victory at the 1953 Supercortemaggiore, driven by Juan Manuel Fangio. Additionally, most of the Colli Coupes underwent rebodying. One was fitted with a Zagato Coupe for Joakim Bonnier, while another one underwent a transformation at the hands of Pininfarina, becoming the Superflow concept car.

The Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM Boano coupe's flowing rear was dominated by a large rear window, split in the middle. (Picture from: Auto.cz)

One received a new Boano body and was presented to President Juan Perón of Argentina, reportedly inspired by the Touring bodied Alfa Romeo Disco Volante. Unfortunately, it was later involved in two accident events but ultimately survived to this day after being rebuilt with a Berlinetta Colli replica body.  

The Boano coupe was badly damaged twice. The first time in Buenos Aires after a collision with a bus and the second time in 1984. (Picture from: VeloceToday)

On September 16th 1955, Peròn was ousted from office by the Revolución Libertadora, fleeing to Paraguay. Subsequently, his belongings, including the 3000 CM, were confiscated and later auctioned off.

The Perón's Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM Boano coupe, now with a replica of the original Berlinetta Colli body, had a second crash when it hit trees during the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix in 1984. (Picture from: VeloceToday)

Boano's legacy endures through Mario Boano's ability to pass on his expertise to his son Gianpaolo, enabling the company to collaborate with leading body manufacturers and produce innovative designs that continue to shape the automotive world. | yItvnOKlWkc |

Boano's commitment to excellence and innovation distinguishes it, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by enthusiasts and historians alike for its enduring impact on automotive history. As we reflect on Boano's journey, we are reminded of the timeless allure of its creations, standing as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of a bygone era. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VIARETRO | VELOCETODAY | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | AUTO.CZ | RACINGSPORTSCARS | SUPERCARS.NET ]

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Rare Gems: Discovering TVR Typhon, the Ultimate Supercharged Ride!

Rare BEAST - The TVR Typhon concept car stands as a testament to the rare and extraordinary in the world of supercharged street-legal sports cars. With its sleek carbon fiber body, this car represents a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design. Interestingly, only one road car prototype was ever built in 2001, a fact that adds to its allure. 

The three TVR Typhons together at a Goodwood event in 2012. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Throughout its lifetime, only three of these remarkable machines were ever brought into existence, making it a true collector's item. This car holds the distinction of being the fastest production car ever built by TVR, the renowned British automotive company. 

The first prototype, PN02, was initially badged as TuscanR, then T400R, and finally T440R, commonly known as the T400R or DeWalt car. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Its production spanned from 2000 to 2006 at the company's factory in Blackpool. The genesis of the Typhon dates back to the late 1990s when Peter Wheeler, the founder of TVR, embarked on a project that aimed to see TVR cars dominating at Le Mans. 

The T400R Prototype, known as PN02 and painted in DeWalt colors, was utilized by TVR to promote the Le Mans series racing. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

To achieve this ambitious goal, a completely new car had to be conceived, one that utilized modern composite materials to be more rigid and capable than any previous TVR model. Initially, the TVR Typhon started its journey as a two-seat sports car named the TuscanR (TVR T400R), inspired by the Tuscan racers of the TVR Tuscan Challenge. 

The T440R prototype, like PN02, was spotted with both TuscanR and T400R badges in 2001. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

This composite-bodied racing and road car made its debut at the 2000 NEC Motor Show in Birmingham, marking the beginning of a legendary lineage. Designed to reach speeds of 200 mph (322 kph) on the challenging Mulsanne Straight, the Typhon was engineered for stability and, above all, victory. 

The T440R road car, commonly known as 'LNT1,' was originally owned by Lawrence Tomlinson. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

From its roots as the TuscanR (TVR T400R), it evolved into the Typhon, a car that not only surpassed 200 mph but also became the fastest and most expensive production car in TVR's storied history. In 2002, TVR offered two variants of the Typhon: a GT Championship-spec race car and a road car available in a 2+2 configuration. 

The original show car of TVR Typhon (No.2), known as the Reflex Charcoal car used in various motor shows, was initially owned by a post-Peter Wheeler era owner of TVR. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

These models boasted a 4.2-liter version of the TVR Speed Six engine, delivering an impressive 450 bhp. Coupled with a total weight of around 1,000 kg, this power-to-weight ratio far exceeded that of a Porsche 911 Turbo, showcasing the Typhon's remarkable performance capabilities.

TVR Typhon (No.3) stands as the only Typhon ever delivered directly to a private customer. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

The original TVR Typhon show car, known as No.2, made waves with its Reflex Charcoal appearance at various motor shows. Powered by either a 4000 cc or 4200 cc straight-six engine, the Typhon offered exhilarating performance matched with a five-speed manual gearbox (or an optional six-speed sequential gearbox), capable of propelling four adults to speeds exceeding 200 mph.

TVR Typhon No.1, originally equipped with a supercharged engine and a sequential gearbox, was retained by the factory until its closure and has been privately owned since 2010. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Despite its £75,000 price tag, the initial batch of 50 Typhons sold out quickly, underscoring the car's desirability and prestige among enthusiasts. As development progressed, the model name transitioned to T400, reflecting the 400 bhp engine option paired with a Borg Warner T5 gearbox. 

Additionally, the T440R variant emerged for the Le Mans race cars, solidifying the Typhon's racing pedigree. While production records from the factory are scarce, it is widely believed that only one true Typhon exists, equipped with a Vortex supercharger and a six-speed sequential gearbox generating approximately 550 bhp. Former TVR employees hint at the possibility of four Typhons being constructed in total, adding an aura of mystery and exclusivity to these exceptional automobiles. *** [EKA [29122018] | FROM VAROUS SOURCES | TVR CLUB CAR | WIKIPEDIA | WIKIWAND | CLASSICANDSPORTSCAR ]

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The Dark Knight - Gotham: Pininfarina's New Batman-Inspired Hypercars

The Dark Knight Returns - Gotham City's legendary protector, Batman, is not just a comic book hero but a cultural icon that has inspired generations. From the pages of DC Comics to blockbuster movies, Batman's influence extends beyond the realm of fiction. Now, Italian design powerhouse Automobili Pininfarina is bringing the essence of the Dark Knight to life with a new line of electric hypercars.

The Battista GT in the Dark Knight trim embodies Batman's nocturnal crusade against crime and redefines luxury and performance in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape. (Picture from: Automobili Pininfarina)

The announcement of Pininfarina's latest creations, the B95 Barchetta and Battista GT models, has sent ripples of excitement through the automotive world. These hypercars, infused with the spirit of Batman, are set to redefine luxury and performance in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape.

Featuring butterfly doors, the Bruce Wayne-inspired Battista electric hypercar in the Dark Knight trim exudes sleekness and sophistication. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

The distinguishing feature of these hypercars is their design philosophy, directly inspired by the dual identity of Bruce Wayne. The B95 Barchetta and Battista GT models come in two distinct trims, Gotham and Dark Knight, each reflecting a different aspect of Batman's persona.

The Battista GT in the Dark Knight trim features a sleek gloss black exterior paint (Nero Profondo), enhancing its menacing allure. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

The Gotham trim exudes elegance and luxury, mirroring Bruce Wayne's public persona as a billionaire playboy. The interior is adorned with premium brown leather, exuding warmth and sophistication. Complementing this rich interior is the Argento Vittorio gray exterior, symbolizing class and refinement.

The Gotham trim's interior is adorned with premium brown leather, exuding warmth and sophistication. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

On the other hand, the Dark Knight edition embodies Batman's nocturnal crusade against crime. The interior features a striking combination of black Alcantara and leather seats, creating a sense of stealth and power. The exterior sports a sleek gloss black paint (Nero Profondo), further enhancing its menacing allure.

The Black Knight trim's interior features a striking combination of black Alcantara and leather seats, creating a sense of stealth and power. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Both trims boast unique touches that pay homage to Batman's world. From discreet black wheels on the Gotham to ceramic polished rims on the Dark Knight, every detail is meticulously crafted to capture the essence of Gotham City's protector.

The B95 in the Black Knight trim features a sleek gloss black exterior paint (Nero Profondo) paired with ceramic polished rims, enhancing its menacing allure. (Picture from: Automobili Pininfarina)

Under the hood, the B95 and Battista retain their formidable powertrain. Powered by a 120 kWh high-capacity lithium-ion battery and four electric motors generating up to 1,900 hp, these hypercars deliver exhilarating performance. With acceleration from zero to 62 mph in under two seconds, they outpace even Formula 1 cars, making them the ultimate machines for tackling Gotham's criminal underworld.

The B95 in the Gotham trim boasts an Argento Vittorio gray exterior paired with discreet black wheels, exuding elegance and luxury that mirrors Bruce Wayne's public persona as a billionaire playboy. (Picture from: DesignBoom)

For enthusiasts eager to own a piece of automotive history, Pininfarina's Batman-inspired hypercars will be available exclusively on the BruceWayneX website. The price tag reflects the exclusivity and craftsmanship of these vehicles, with the Battista priced at €3.4 million and the B95s at €4.9 million. A select few will have the opportunity to experience these marvels firsthand at an exclusive event in NYC from June 3 to 10, 2024.

In conclusion, Pininfarina's collaboration with Batman transcends mere automotive design; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of a beloved superhero. As these hypercars hit the streets, they serve as a reminder of the timeless appeal of Bruce Wayne's alter ego, the Dark Knight, and his relentless pursuit of justice. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BRUCEWAYNEX | AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA | AUTOEVOLUTION | CARSCOOPS | DESIGNBOOM ]

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1950s' Ultimate Beauty: The Sexiest Astra Super Coupe

Sexiest GEMS - The world of automotive design has seen its fair share of iconic creations that blend various styles and inspirations from across the globe. One such remarkable example dates back to the 1950s when Jay Everett, a visionary designer, crafted a custom vehicle that seamlessly melded European elegance with American flair, captivating car enthusiasts of that era with his exceptional talent.

Designed by Jay Everett in 1955, the Astra Coupe stands as a custom vehicle that seamlessly melded European elegance with American flair, captivating car enthusiasts of that era with its exceptional talent. (Picture from: Kustomrama)

The genesis of this automotive marvel, known as the Astra Coupe, can be traced back to 1952 when Jay Everett resided in California and honed his skills at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, a renowned institution that nurtured many automotive design luminaries.

Since 2010, Franz Millnertisch of St. Valentin, Austria, has owned and restored the Astra Coupe to drivable condition. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

California, often hailed as the epicenter of hot rod culture in the United States, provided the perfect backdrop for Jay Everett's creative endeavors. With a modest garage tucked behind his residence, he embarked on a journey to bring his vision of the Astra Coupe to life amid the bustling custom car scene of mid-1950s California.

The 1955 Astra Coupe, constructed on a triangular frame made of 2,375-inch-long steel tubes, ensured the structural integrity essential for its distinctive form. (Picture from: Kustomrama)

The Astra Coupe was more than just a car; it was a testament to craftsmanship and individuality. Constructed almost entirely from scratch, the vehicle was tailored to reflect the builder's unique tastes and aspirations. A bespoke chassis, expertly crafted by Paul Koonz, formed the foundation of this automotive masterpiece. The chassis, a triangular frame constructed from 2,375-inch-long steel tubes, provided the structural integrity necessary for the car's distinctive form.

Front view of 1955 Astra Coupe. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

The body of the Astra Coupe, meticulously shaped from aluminum by artisans Jack Sutton and Dennis Powers, embodied Everett's design ethos. Its radical exterior, characterized by front pontoon fenders and rear tailfins, created a sweeping, horizontal profile that exuded a timeless aesthetic appeal. The fastback roofline and low-slung nose further accentuated the car's distinctiveness, making it a true standout in the automotive landscape.

Right side view of the 1955 Astra Coupe. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Upon its debut at the Petersen Motorama in 1953, the Astra Coupe garnered attention with its innovative front and rear grille design, featuring striking tube elements. The placement of the radiator in front of the rear grille showcased Jay Everett's forward-thinking approach to automotive engineering.

The steering wheel and dashboard view of 1955 Astra Coupe. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

While the initial showcase in 1953 was more of a design study, Jay Everett completed the Astra Coupe in 1955, transforming it into a fully functional and drivable vehicle with enhanced interior and exterior refinements. The interior underwent a modern overhaul, featuring a handcrafted banjo-style steering wheel and racing bucket seats that underscored the car's performance-oriented nature.

Simple white-black trim seaters in the interior of the 1955 Astra Coupe. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Powering the Astra Coupe was a robust V8 'Rocket' Oldsmobile engine boasting a displacement of 303 cubic inches (4,965 cc), mated to a Lincoln automatic transmission with overdrive. This formidable powertrain configuration ensured that the Astra Coupe not only turned heads but also delivered an exhilarating driving experience.

The 1955 Astra Coupe was used a V8 'Rocket' Oldsmobile 303 cubic-inch capacity of 4,965 cc. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Unsurprisingly, the Astra Coupe captured the imagination of automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders alike, earning coveted cover features in prominent American automotive publications such as Motortrend, Hot Rod, and Rod & Custom. Its blend of artistic flair, engineering prowess, and sheer innovation cemented its legacy as a timeless automotive icon.

Rear side view of the 1955 Astra Coupe. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

In essence, the Astra Coupe stands as a testament to the ingenuity and passion that drive automotive design forward, showcasing how a singular vision can transcend mere transportation to become a work of art on wheels. *** [EKA [02032020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | RUOTEVECCHIA | KUSTOMRAMA | UNDISCOVEREDCLASSIC ]

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Exploring Uniqueness: The Most Unusual Classic Car Concepts Ever Made

Most UNIQUE Ones - In the realm of modern auto design, events like the Geneva Motor Show stand out as hubs of innovation and creativity. Over the years, these prestigious gatherings have seen the debut of numerous concept cars that push the boundaries of traditional design.

1968 Alfa Romeo Carabo. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

While many of these concepts showcase sleek lines and futuristic aesthetics, there are also those that defy convention with their unusual and sometimes downright weird designs as you can see on the the Alfa Romeo Carabo.

Another notable example is the 1963 Chevrolet Corvair Testudo by Bertone. Created with the European market in mind, this concept car featured a design that was ahead of its time. Nuccio Bertone himself drove the Testudo to the 1963 Geneva Motor Show, showcasing its innovative approach to automotive styling.

1963 Chevrolet Corvair Testudo by Bertone. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

Moving ahead to 1968, we encounter the Bertone Panther, a prototype developed for the World Sportscar Championship. What set the Panther apart was its distinctive spoiler, which could be adjusted hydraulically for optimal performance—a feature that was truly ahead of its time.

1968 Bertone Panther. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

In 1970, BMW collaborated with Bertone to create the BMW 2200 ti Garmisch. Designed by Marcelo Gandini, this concept car left a lasting impact on BMW's design language, influencing future models like the E12 5 Series. Despite not carrying over all its design elements, the Garmisch remains a testament to Bertone's creative prowess.

1970 BMW 2200 ti Garmisch by Bertone. (Picture from: OldCarConcepts)

Fast forward to 1981, and we encounter the Wolfrace Sonic—a promotional vehicle that showcased Wolfrace's innovative alloy wheels. With its six wheels and twin Rover V8 engines, the Sonic captured the imagination of enthusiasts, earning its place alongside iconic supercars of the era.

1981 Wolfrace Sonic. (Picture from: ViaRetro)

In 1987, Sbarro unveiled the Monster G—a truly bizarre concept car that combined elements from a Mercedes G-Wagon, a beach buggy, and even wheels from a Boeing 747. This eclectic blend of influences resulted in a vehicle that defied categorization, sparking curiosity and intrigue among automotive enthusiasts.

1987 Sbarro Monster G. (Picture from: Sbarro)

These concept cars, spanning from the 1960s to the 1980s, highlight the diverse landscape of automotive design. Each one represents a unique vision and a departure from the norm, contributing to the rich tapestry of automotive history.

As we delve into these unconventional designs, we encourage readers to share their thoughts and even recommend other quirky cars that merit recognition. The realm of concept cars is a canvas of boundless creativity, where imagination reigns supreme. This can also be observed in other unique examples, such as Ferrari's seven odd cars. *** [EKA [13042016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSIC DRIVER | CARSTYLING.RU | OLDCARCONCEPTS | VIARETRO | SBARRO ]

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