Knowing 4 Histroric Corvette Concept Cars

American LEGENDS - The Corvette, an iconic American sports car produced by Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has carved its place in automotive history over six generations. It all began in 1953 when the visionary Harley Earl unveiled the first model, a convertible, at the GM Motorama 1953 as a concept car. It was a bold step forward in automotive design, capturing the imagination of car enthusiasts. Myron Scott deserves credit for bestowing the name "Corvette" upon this remarkable creation. 

The first Corvette, a convertible concept, designed by Harley Earl and made its debut in January 1953 at the GM Motorama in New York. (Picture from: BusinessInsider)

Originally crafted in Flint, Michigan, and St. Louis, Missouri, the Corvette now calls Bowling Green, Kentucky home and proudly holds the title of the official sports car of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The National Corvette Museum stands as a testament to this iconic car's rich history, hosting annual events that celebrate its enduring legacy.

Amidst the myriad concept cars birthed by this American automotive titan, four stand out for their profound influence on the Corvette's enduring design. What sets these concept cars apart is not just their impact but also their unique nomenclature, drawing inspiration from the world beneath the waves—the fish.

Stingray Racer (1959 Stingray Racer XP-87) posed with Mako Shark (1961 Mako Shark XP-755). (Picture from: CorvetteBlogger)

Let's dive into the history of these four one-of-a-kind Corvette concepts: 

1. Stingray Racer - 1959 Stingray Racer XP-87

In 1959, Bill Mitchell, the head of GM Design, envisioned a Corvette racecar capable of outshining Europe's best. With the AMA prohibiting manufacturer-sponsored racing, Mitchell embarked on a private venture to fund the project. He enlisted Larry Shinoda to help develop this groundbreaking concept, pouring his own resources into the endeavor.

Pictures of Stingray Racer

1959 Stingray Racer XP-87. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Sw30EM)

1959 Stingray Racer XP-87. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2RpfjkT)

1959 Stingray Racer XP-87. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2PrrAIr)

The result was the Stingray Racer, born from the fusion of the 1957 SS chassis and a revolutionary fiberglass body. Zora Arkus-Duntov contributed his engineering expertise to bring this sleek roadster to life. Under the skilled hands of SCCA driver Dick Thompson, the Stingray clinched two consecutive class championships. After the 1960 season, Mitchell transformed it into an experimental show car, retiring it from competition, adding a windshield and a passenger seat, and even taking it for a spin on the streets.

2. Mako Shark – 1961 Mako Shark XP-755

In 1961, Larry Shinoda, guided by GM Design head Bill Mitchell, crafted the Mako Shark concept—a vision for future Chevrolet Corvettes. True to its name, this concept borrowed elements from the sleek and swift Mako Shark, evident in its streamlined design and pointed snout.

Pictures of Mako Shark

1961 Mako Shark XP-755. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2AC2HRL)

1961 Mako Shark XP-755. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2EUbxP2)

1961 Mako Shark XP-755. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yHWlyZ)

The Mako Shark bore a striking resemblance to the 1963 production Corvette it inspired, with some notable alterations. These included six brake lights in the rear, an elongated and pointed nose, a transparent glass roof with a periscope-like rear-view mirror, and a revamped interior.

3. Manta Ray – 1969 Manta Ray

In 1969, the Manta Ray project, nicknamed "Bill Mitchell's Extreme Shark," emerged from a transformation of the 1965 Mako Shark II (XP-830), focusing primarily on the cockpit and rear of this extravagant vehicle.

Pictures of Manta Ray

1969 Manta Ray. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2SvEZ0u)

1969 Manta Ray. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yKW0vo)

1969 Manta Ray. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2zjww7N)

While the tapered 'boat tail' motif endured, a considerably longer rear end replaced the earlier abrupt ducktail. Subtle adjustments were made during the winter of 1969-70, marking the final alterations to this dream car turned reality.

4. AeroVette – 1973 Four Rotor XP-895 AeroVette

The XP-882, initially unveiled in New York in 1970, laid the foundation for the subsequent Wankel motor prototypes, including the two-rotor 'XP-897' and the four-rotor 'XP-895,' led by Bill Mitchell. The four-rotor model featured a pair of GM's experimental licensed two-rotor engines, boasting an impressive 420 horsepower.

Pictures of AeroVette

1973 Four Rotor XP-895 AeroVette. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2SvEZ0u)

1973 Four Rotor XP-895 AeroVette. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2SvEZ0u)

1973 Four Rotor XP-895 AeroVette. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2SvEZ0u)

In 1976, the 1973 Corvette 4-Rotor concept was resurrected as the Aerovette. The double rotary engine made way for a transversally mounted 400 CID V8 engine. Bill Mitchell, the Vice President of Design, championed the Aerovette as the next Corvette, earning approval for 1980 production from GM chairman and CEO Thomas Murphy.

However, fate had different plans. Management opted to continue producing the front-engine V8 'traditional' Corvette, as it was in high demand, making a substantial investment in a mid-engine car too risky. Consequently, the Aerovette project was shelved.

These are the four historic Corvette concept cars that Chevrolet, the renowned American automotive manufacturer, brought to life from the 1950s to the 1970s. Each one, a testament to innovation and design, left an indelible mark on the Corvette's journey through time. *** [EKA [31082018] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | CONCEPTCARZ | MOTORTREND | CORVETTES.NL | WALLPAPERUP | THOMAS BECKER'S FLICKR | CORVETTE BLOGGER]

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The Timeless Beauty of the Iso Grifo: A Legend Reimagined

Only ONE - In our perspective, the Iso Grifo A3/L (L for Lusso) represents a pinnacle of Italian sports car design, brought to life by the visionary Renzo Rivolta as a successor to his Iso Rivolta IR 300. The body of this masterpiece was crafted by none other than the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro at Bertone, while the mechanical genius Giotto Bizzarrini lent his expertise to the powertrain. Bizzarrini, foreseeing a demand for a high-performance racing variant of the Grifo, conceived the A3/C (C for Corsa), featuring a dramatically modified alloy body.

The Iso Grifo A3/L (L for Lusso) represents a pinnacle of Italian sports car design, brought to life by the visionary Renzo Rivolta as a successor to his Iso Rivolta IR 300. (Picture from: Conceptcarz)

This extraordinary creation earned the moniker of the "Improved GTO" due to Bizzarrini's prior involvement as the designer of the iconic Ferrari 250 GTO during his tenure at Ferrari. One of the most noteworthy innovations was the relocation of the engine, shifted about 40 centimeters (16 inches) rearward, positioning the A3/C among the pioneering front-mid-engined cars in automotive history. To fine-tune the engine's timing, a portion of the dashboard was meticulously removed. Both the 250 GTO and Iso Grifo originally rolled out of the factory equipped with Pirelli Cinturato 205VR15 tires (CN72).

The Iso Grifo A3/L represents a pinnacle of Italian sports car design, brought to life by the visionary Renzo Rivolta as a successor to his Iso Rivolta IR 300. (Picture from: Conceptcarz)

The chassis #001, the prototype showcased on the Bertone stand, stands as a unique masterpiece, distinguished by subtle variations from subsequent production models. Featuring a lower roofline and beltline, its coachwork exudes an even more pronounced sporty allure than its successors. Remarkable details such as a stainless steel wraparound roof band set it apart. Inside, the cabin embraces luxury with bespoke elements including a special shifter and steering wheel, adding to its exclusivity.

The Iso Grifo A3/L (L for Lusso) unveiled at the 1964 Turin Auto Show in Bertone booth. (Picture from: SportscarMarket)

In that same year, Bertone unveiled the Grifo A3/L Prototype at the Turin Auto Show, while Iso presented the competition-oriented version, the Iso Grifo A3/C, albeit partially unfinished. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Despite necessary design modifications to the prototype, Iso concentrated its efforts on preparing the Grifo A3/L for production. A mild facelift ensued, slightly softening its aggressive demeanor, transforming it into perhaps the most elegantly styled Gran Turismo (GT) supercar ever to grace the roads.

The Iso Grifo A3/L (L for Lusso) represents a pinnacle of Italian sports car design, brought to life by the visionary Renzo Rivolta as a successor to his Iso Rivolta IR 300. (Picture from: SportscarMarket)

This road-going Iso Grifo GL adopted the potent yet reliable Chevrolet small-block 327 Corvette V8 engine (5.4-liter) with power outputs ranging from 300 to 350 horsepower, mated to a Borg-Warner 4-speed toploader transmission. These engines were imported from the United States but underwent meticulous disassembly and blueprinting before installation, a practice reminiscent of the Iso Rivolta IR 300.

With over 400 horsepower and a weight of under 2,200 pounds, this remarkable vehicle achieved speeds exceeding 171 mph, setting the stage for an era of high-performance supercars. As Renzo Rivolta focused on perfecting the A3/L, tensions arose due to Giotto's efforts to promote the A3/C. This division resulted in the production of the Grifo GL at Bresso and the A3/C at Piero Drogo's Sports Cars of Modena, under Giotto's rigorous supervision.

The Iso Grifo A3/L (L for Lusso) powered by a Chevrolet small-block 327 Corvette V8 engine (5.4-liter) with power outputs ranging from 300 to 350 horsepower. (Picture from: SportscarMarket)

In 1964, the prototype Grifo A3/C made its presence felt at Le Mans, piloted by Edgar Berney and Pierre Noblet. The car performed admirably until brake issues necessitated a lengthy pit stop. Despite this setback, the car soldiered on, ultimately finishing in 14th place—a commendable achievement for a brand-new entrant. Unfortunately, a disagreement between Renzo and Bizzarrini brought the partnership to an end, halting the production of the Bizzarrini Grifo A3/C after just 22 units.

The Iso Grifo A3/L prototype showcased on the Bertone stand, stands as a unique masterpiece, distinguished by subtle variations from subsequent production models. (Picture from: SportscarMarket)

Finally, in 1965, Giotto Bizzarrini and Renzo Rivolta parted ways, marking the commencement of separate production lines for the road-going Grifo GL and the competition-focused Bizzarrini A3/C. Giotto continued to refine his A3/C, ultimately leading to the creation of the Bizzarrini 5300 Stradas and Corsas. From this point onward, the "Grifo" name gradually faded from association with Bizzarrini.

The production version of the car boasted 390 horsepower and a first-gear sprint of 68 mph. Additionally, Renzo Rivolta unveiled a one-off Grifo A3/L Spyder at the Geneva Auto Show. Production of the Iso Grifo GL officially commenced in 1965, and by October 1966, the first Grifo with a Targa Top, car #97, was unveiled in Turin.

After its showcase in Turin, the prototype embarked on a tour of auto shows across Europe, culminating in its appearance at the 1964 New York Auto Show before returning to the factory for further development. In the early 1970s, the Grifo found its way to the United States through an actor's import, eventually falling into the hands of renowned collector Ron Kellogg in Southern California. Subsequently, it changed hands again in Yucca Valley, California, where the body underwent an orange repaint, and the nose was replaced with one from a standard production Grifo. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GOODING.CO | CONCEPTCARZ | RMW.LV | RUOTEVECCHIE.ORG | SPORTSCARMARKET ]

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Top 10 Most Beautiful 1960s Cars (Part-2)

Beautiful ONES - The 1960s was an era defined by miniskirts, Jimi Hendrix, and the summer of love. It was a time when the world emerged from post-war austerity, and a wave of optimism swept across society. 

James Bond’s (in pictured Sean Connery) Aston Martin DB5 sells for $6.4 million at Pebble Beach of 2019. (Picture from: CNBC)

This newfound spirit of creativity touched everything, from music and fashion to politics. It was an era that also left an indelible mark on the automobile industry, giving rise to some of the most beautiful and iconic cars in history. In this article, we'll explore my top 5 favorites from that era.

Škoda Winnetou: The Prototype That Stole the Show but Never Hit the Road

Remained in the Dream - In the world of Czech automotive history, Škoda's convertibles, the Škoda 450 and later the Felicia, were celebrated for their beauty and allure. They not only made waves in the domestic Czech market but also drew attention abroad. However, with the production of the Felicia coming to an end in 1964, it marked the conclusion of an era for open-top Mladá Boleslav brand cars. Though there were plans to resurrect the convertible spirit, the Škoda Winnetou, it remained a dream unfulfilled.

The Škoda Winnetou roadster prototype was conceived in the 1960s by Škoda's Swiss importers, A.P. Glättli AG, based near Zurich in Dietlikon. (Picture from: Auto.cz)

Surprisingly, the birth of this exotic car in Mladá Boleslav during the socialist era was not a product of Škoda's own designers. Instead, it was conceived in the 1960s by its Swiss importers, A.P. Glättli AG, based near Zurich in Dietlikon. Their vision was to craft a stylish roadster based on an existing Škoda model and offer it to customers in Western Europe at an attractive price point.

The Škoda Winnetou's vision was to craft a stylish roadster based on an existing Škoda model and offer it to customers in Western Europe at an attractive price point. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

In 1967, the prototype of a sporty convertible, bearing the curious name Škoda Winnetou, named after the "Apache Chief" from Karl May's books. This roadster made its global debut in March 1967 at the Geneva Motor Show, where it immediately captured the spotlight. Even today, its distinctive design continues to captivate enthusiasts. This two-seater roadster came together rather swiftly and, as per available information, underwent assembly in Aachen, Germany by Hubert Souren KG, where the laminate body designed by American Bill Devin was also produced.

The Škoda Winnetou roadster prototype (no.3 from the left) made its global debut in March 1967 at the Geneva Motor Show, where it immediately captured the spotlight. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

The Škoda Winnetou featured a space frame crafted from steel profiles, equipped with axles borrowed from the popular Škoda 1000 MBX and coupled with components from Volkswagen. Nestled at the rear, the engine powered the rear wheels. Measuring a mere 3,815 millimeters in length, 1,595 millimeters in width, and, with the emergency canvas roof included, 1,300 millimeters in height, it epitomized compactness.

The Škoda Winnetou featured a space frame crafted from steel profiles, equipped with axles borrowed from the popular Škoda 1000 MBX and coupled with components from Volkswagen. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

Stepping inside, the cabin offered accommodations for just two passengers, embodying simplicity and functionality. Under the sloping front hood, only a toolkit and a battery found their place, while the lone "luggage" compartment was inconveniently positioned at the rear, right alongside the engine in the engine compartment.

The Škoda Winnetou measuring a mere 3,815 millimeters in length, 1,595 millimeters in width, and, with the emergency canvas roof included, 1,300 millimeters in height, it epitomized compactness. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

The powertrain concealed beneath the Winnetou's hood did not pack a punch. The 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine, borrowed also from the Škoda 1000 MBX, churned out a modest output of around fifty horsepower. This performance was far from impressive, especially for a car weighing just under 600 kilograms. 

In front of the driver was a three-spoke steering wheel with a wooden wreath, a speedometer calibrated to an even more optimistic 180 km/h, a coolant temperature gauge and a fuel gauge located on the left. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

When the Winnetou underwent performance testing in Mladá Boleslav to determine its fate, it fell far short of expectations. Rather than achieving the claimed top speed of 160 km/h, the car reached a mere 126 km/h during testing. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h was a painstakingly slow process, taking 30.2 seconds. The amalgamation of these performance setbacks, coupled with the inherent impracticality of the design and a relatively high price by Škoda's standards, sealed the fate of the Winnetou. 

The Škoda Winnetou roadster prototype powered by a rear-mounted 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine, taken from the Škoda 1000 MBX, churned out a modest output of around 50 hp. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

The Winnetou's primary allure was its price, which was anticipated to remain under 7,900 Swiss francs. This undercut the competition's pricing across Europe at the time. However, even with this compelling pricing strategy, the Winnetou failed to secure a green light for production. It remained a prototype and never transitioned into production. The sole existing prototype is rumored to have ended up in the possession of a private collector. Apologies, the following video pertains to the Felicia roadster, Škoda Winnetou's predecessor, not the Winnetou itself.

In hindsight, the Škoda Winnetou remains a captivating footnote in automotive history, symbolizing a unique chapter in the brand's journey. While it may never have dominated the roads, it continues to kindle the imaginations of automotive enthusiasts worldwide, commemorating 56 years since its debut back in the 1967. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTO.CZ | DENIK.CZ | AUTOREVUE.CZ | ALLCARINDEX | WIKIPEDIA ]

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The Million-Dollar Marvels: Top 8 Expensive Ferraris

Special $$$$ Prancing Horses - For car enthusiasts with a need for speed, Ferrari needs no introduction. This Italian automotive legend has consistently topped the charts as a favorite among those who crave the thrill of high-speed adventures.

Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Coupe is a chimera model of two famous 1961 Ferrari 250 GTE and Testa Rossa restored by Neil Twyman. (Picture from: Trussty-Jasmine)

Ferrari isn't just a car; it's a work of art, a symbol of prestige, and a collector's dream. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Ferrari and explore the top 8 most expensive Ferraris you can find today.

Top 10 Most Beautiful 1960s Cars (Part-1)

Beautiful ONES - The 1960s, with its miniskirts, the electrifying music of Jimi Hendrix, and the spirit of the summer of love, exuded an unparalleled grooviness. It was a time when the world emerged from post-war austerity, ushering in a newfound sense of optimism.

Elvis Presley's Pink Cadillac Fleetwood Series 60 at Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee. (Picture from: EncirclePhotos)

This creative resurgence extended beyond music and fashion; it extended to the automotive industry as well. In this article, we'll delve into the mesmerizing world of '60s cars, celebrating their timeless beauty and the era's glamorous culture.

10. Austin Mini 850 Mark I

The Austin Mini 850 Mark I, produced by the British Motor Corporation (BMC), is an enduring icon of the 1960s. This compact car, known for its sliding windows, external door hinges, and distinctive "moustache" grille, revolutionized automotive design. Its space-saving front-wheel-drive layout allowed 80% of the floorpan area to be dedicated to passengers and luggage, influencing generations of car makers.

1963 Austin Mini 850 Mark I. (Picture from: BringATrailer)

Often compared to the Volkswagen Beetle, the Mini captured the hearts of many, including the legendary Beatles who favored it over the Beetle. It stands as a testament to British automotive innovation and style during the swinging '60s.

9. Buick Riviera

Introduced in October 1962, the Buick Riviera stretched out luxuriously at 208 inches. Its rear-slanted nose, low-profile roofline, and wide roof pillars gave it a distinctive appearance. The headlamps seamlessly integrated into the grille, maintaining the car's sharp profile.

1965 Buick Riviera. (Picture from: ClassicAutoMall)

Designed to rival Ford Thunderbird, the Buick Riviera exuded a refined masculinity with its sleek side-vents and assertive front grille. Inside, it boasted four bucket seats, a center console, and a floor-mounted shifter.

1963 Buick Riviera. (Picture from: MotorTrend)

The upholstery options included vinyl, cloth/vinyl, or leather/vinyl, providing a touch of elegance. Rear passengers could exit using the second set of inside door handles, and the radio speaker was ingeniously placed between the rear seats due to the dashboard's space constraints.

8. Pontiac Firebird

The Pontiac Firebird, in production from 1967 to 2002, shared the stage with its sibling, the Chevrolet Camaro. These pony cars sported various four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and V8 engines sourced from GM divisions, offering a diverse range of powertrains. The Firebird's integrated bumpers and distinctive "slit" taillights, inspired by the Pontiac GTO, defined its unique identity.

1967 Pontiac Firebird. (Picture from: Cargurus)

Originally conceived as a "consolation prize" for Pontiac, which had initially sought to create a two-seat sports car, the Firebird shared the F-body platform with Chevrolet to avoid competing with the Corvette directly. It became a symbol of American muscle and style during the swinging '60s.

7. Austin-Healey 3000

Manufactured from 1959 to late 1967, the Austin-Healey 3000 was a beloved two-door soft-top roadster offered to American enthusiasts. Often referred to as the "big Healey" to distinguish it from its smaller sibling, the Bugeye Sprite, this model featured a robust 2.9-liter C-Series straight-six engine generating 124 horsepower.

Austin-Healey 3000 MK 1. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Austin Healey 3000. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Equipped with twin SU carburetors, Girling front disc brakes, and optional features like adjustable steering, overdrive-equipped gearbox, wire wheels, and two-tone paint, the Austin-Healey 3000 provided a thrilling driving experience. Even Jay Leno counts himself among its enthusiasts.

6. Cadillac Series 62 Eldorado

Elvis Presley's favorite car, the Cadillac Series 62 Eldorado, epitomized understated elegance. Departing from the flamboyant tailfins and aerospace-inspired designs of the late '50s, this model embraced a leaner, more linear aesthetic.

With its sculptured sides, distinctive tail lights, and cornering lights, this one-year-only production bodystyle exuded sophistication. It featured a massive 6,390 cc (390 cubic inch) V8 engine producing 325 horsepower, reflecting Cadillac's commitment to performance and style.

1962 Cadillac Series 62 Eldorado. (Picture from: Hemmings)

Inspired by the space program and the era of jet engines, the Series 62 Eldorado was a symbol of technological progress and luxury. Despite its size, it navigated with a 24-foot turning radius, making it a true testament to '60s automotive engineering.

1962 Cadillac Series 62 Eldorado. (Picture from: Hemmings)

In the 1960s, these iconic cars embodied the spirit of the era—bold, innovative, and undeniably stylish. From the compact charm of the Austin Mini 850 Mark I to the understated elegance of the Cadillac Series 62 Eldorado, each car had its unique allure. As we look back on these classics, we're reminded of a time when the world was groovy, and the cars were nothing short of legendary. (Jump to Next-Part.) *** [EKA [27022013] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DAILYTOP10 | BRINGATRAILER | CLASSICAUTOMALL | MOTORTREND | CARGURUS | ENCIRCLEPHOTOS | HEMMINGS ]

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