Timeless Innovation - The automotive world thrives on innovation, fueled by passionate individuals and companies aiming to combine performance, style, and timeless appeal. Among the many iconic creations, the Marcos Mini, also known as the Mini Marcos, stands as a symbol of ingenuity and adaptability. Debuting in the mid-1960s, this compact yet powerful kit car secured its place in history with impressive performance and a distinctive design. But its journey didn’t stop there—this remarkable car continued to evolve, transforming into something even greater.
The Midas is a British made kit car initially manufactured by D&H Fibreglass Techniques using Mini running gear. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
In the 1970s, D & H Fibreglass Techniques saw potential in the Marcos Mini Mark IV and sought to refine its design. Harold Dermott, the head of D & H, envisioned a modernized version of the car that could attract a broader audience. To achieve this, he collaborated with designer Richard Oakes, resulting in a sleek and reimagined vehicle named the Midas. The choice of name symbolized a golden touch, hinting at the belief that this new iteration would captivate enthusiasts and buyers alike.
The Midas is the result of a collaboration between D&H Fibreglass Techniques and designer Richard Oakes.(Picture from: Silodrome)
Mechanically, the Midas retained much of the Mini Marcos’s original essence but introduced notable improvements. Gone was the rear subframe of the BMC Mini, replaced with a beam-mounted system for the rear trailing arms. When it debuted at the 1978 Performance Car Show in London, the Midas lived up to its name, generating significant interest and a flood of orders. The car’s appeal lay not only in its design but also in its promise of modern performance and enhanced usability.
The Midas Mark II aka the Bronze benefited significantly from Harold’s marketing, which highlighted the contributions of Brabham Formula 1 Chief Designer Gordon Murray.(Picture from: AROnline)
By the mid-1980s, the Midasunderwent another transformation to accommodate parts from newer vehicles like the Morris and MG Metro. This redesign, again helmed by Richard Oakes, introduced larger windows, wider wings, and an updated front end. Gordon Murray, a renowned automotive engineer, also contributed to aerodynamic refinements, ensuring the car met contemporary standards.
The Midas Mark II aka the Bronze benefited significantly from Harold’s
marketing, which highlighted the contributions of Brabham Formula 1
Chief Designer Gordon Murray.(Picture from: Silodrome)
With safety becoming a priority, the new Midas model passed rigorous crash tests, paving the way for sales as complete vehicles and kits. Despite these advancements, the Midas faced setbacks. A fire in 1989 destroyed its factory, halting production and leading to the sale of D & H to Pastiche Cars.
Produced from 1985 to 1990, the Midas Bronze joined the Gold model lineup, enhanced with design improvements by Gordon Murray. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Unfortunately, Pastiche Cars soon folded. The resilience of the Midas and Mini Marcos did not waver. Ownership of Midas Cars passed through various hands, including GTM to a new Midas Cars Ltd. based in Redditch, West Midlands. The range now consisted of the Coupé, renamed the Cortez, and a K-Series powered convertible named the Excelsior. Although the cars were well received the company went into liquidation in 2003.
In adverts the company claimed the Midas Gold was “Britain’s economy superstar” with a lifetime no-rust warranty, and readers were urged to address enquiries to Harold Dermott himself at the Corby works. (Picture from: MidasRacer in Flickr)
A new company, Alternative Cars Ltd., was set up in 2003 and in 2004 restarted production of kit form versions of the Gold Convertible, Cortez and Excelsior based in a small workshop unit at Clanfield, Oxfordshire. In 2007the Midas Owners Club rediscovered the Gold coupe moulds in Germany and bought them and were imported back to England, ensuring its survival into the 21st century.
From top-left: the Midas Gold Convertible (produced from 1985 to present), top-right: the Midas Cortez (1995 to present), and at the bottom: the Midas Excelsior (2002 to present). (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Meanwhile the rights to the Mini Marcos returned to Marcos Ltd., signaling a turning point for the model’s legacy. The Mini Marcos kits offered flexibility,
allowing customers to purchase components progressively or all at once.
This adaptability ensured that the car remained accessible to a new
generation of builders and drivers.
The 1991 Marcos Mini Mark V showcased modern enhancements like 13-inch wheels, an optional walnut dashboard, and air conditioning, blending retro charm with contemporary comfort. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)
By 1991, the Marcos Mini Mark V showcased modern enhancements like 13-inch wheels,
an optional walnut dashboard, and air conditioning, blending retro
charm with contemporary comfort. Notably, it became the first fully
built Mini Marcos exported to Japan, marking a milestone in its journey.
Brochure of the Marcos Mini Mark VI produced as a kit-car by Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd.(Picture from: Silodrome)
Later, Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd. acquired the rights to the Mini Marcos, offering kit forms of the Mark VI and Mark VI GT models. These kits were designed for enthusiasts who sought to resurrect old Mini parts, combining practicality with nostalgia. The fibreglass body provided a durable alternative to the Mini’s original steel structure, making it an ideal project for restoring rusted or damaged vehicles.
Brochure of the Marcos Mini Mark VI GT produced as a kit-car by Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd.(Picture from: Silodrome)
Today, the Mini Marcos continues to inspire admiration among automotive enthusiasts. Its compact size, thrilling performance, and rich history transport drivers to the vibrant 1960s, while its enduring relevance proves its ability to thrive in a modern world.
Whether as a restored classic or a newly built kit, the Mini Marcos embodies a spirit of adventure and creativity that refuses to fade. Its journey reminds us that innovation and passion can keep even the smallest icons alive, proving that some legends truly never die. (Back to its roots).**[EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MARCOS-OC | WIKIPEDIA | MAXIMUM MINI | ARONLINE | SILODROME ]
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Study Design - The world of architecture and design often finds unexpected intersections with other creative fields, such as automotive design. One such extraordinary crossover occurred in the form of the Renault Coupe Corbusier concept car, a tribute to the legendary French architect Le Corbusier. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of his passing, Renault sought to honor his legacy not only as an architect but also as an influential figure in modern design. The Coupe Corbusier concept is a striking representation of the architect’s principles and offers a unique glimpse into how architecture can influence car design.
Renault Coupe Corbusier marks 50 years since the death of the architect of the same name. (Picture from: CarMagazine)
Le Corbusier, widely regarded as a pioneer of modern architecture, was known for his bold, functional designs. His work, which spans across continents from America to Europe and India, showcases clean lines, structural clarity, and a focus on functionality. Renault, inspired by his architectural style, embarked on a design journey that would blend automotive aesthetics with the essence of Le Corbusier’s design philosophy. The result was the Renault Coupe Corbusier, a concept car that pays homage to the architect’s innovative approach.
The genesis of the concept began two years prior to its unveiling. Renault’s design team aimed to create something that reflected both French culture and the golden era of French automobiles from the 1930s. The 1930s were a time of great innovation in French car design, and this era provided the perfect backdrop for Renault's homage to one of France's most celebrated architects. The design team saw parallels between Le Corbusier's architectural achievements and the automotive craftsmanship of that time, leading to the creation of a car that encapsulated both worlds.
The Renault Coupe Corbusier, with its long hood and sleek, elegant lines, exudes a sophisticated sense of timelessness. (Picture from: CarMagazine)
The Coupe Corbusier is defined by its long, elegant profile. The design exudes sophistication, with a long hood and sleek lines that evoke a sense of timelessness. Its elongated shape, slender side mirrors, and distinctive rear overhang give the car a unique silhouette, standing out from typical automotive designs. The car’s body is angular, with stiff, sharp lines that prioritize form over aerodynamic efficiency, a clear nod to Le Corbusier's architectural style where function and structure often took precedence over ornamentation.
One of the most captivating aspects of the concept car is its striking dihedral doors, commonly referred to as butterfly doors. These doors are hinged at the rear and open vertically, adding a dramatic flair to the car’s overall presentation. This bold feature is a visual highlight that further connects the car to the avant-garde spirit of Le Corbusier’s work, which often challenged traditional design norms and embraced innovation.
One of the most captivating features of the Renault Coupe Corbusier is its striking dihedral doors, hinged at the rear and opening vertically, which add a dramatic flair to the car's presentation.(Picture from: CarMagazine)
The interior of the Coupe Corbusier is a direct reflection of the architect’s penchant for geometric forms and clean, functional spaces. In true Le Corbusier fashion, the interior is completely boxy, devoid of any rounded edges or unnecessary embellishments. Every aspect of the design is intentional, emphasizing practicality and structure, much like his architectural creations. The interior design complements the car's exterior, reinforcing the overall thematic connection between automotive design and modernist architecture.
One of the more subtle yet meaningful design choices is found in the front of the car. Graphics surrounding each of the front wheels suggest that a section of the vehicle's body has been elevated, a reference to Le Corbusier's fondness for elevating parts of his structures on thin piloti. This visual cue creates a sense of lightness and airiness, despite the otherwise imposing design of the vehicle. The dark panels that contrast with the car's silver bodywork further accentuate this concept, drawing attention to the design's architectural influences.
The Renault Coupe Corbusier inspired by the 1930s, but looks pretty futuristic to us to date.(Picture from: CarMagazine)
The front grille is another standout feature, composed of angled slats and flanked by slim headlights. The grille's geometric design mirrors Le Corbusier’s architectural attention to detail, while the slim headlights contribute to the car’s sleek, modern appearance. These elements come together to create a front profile that is both striking and purposeful, much like the architectural facades Le Corbusier was known for.
While the Coupe Corbusier concept is a design marvel, it is important to note that Renault never intended for this car to be a production model. The concept is purely a styling exercise, a platform for the design team to explore new ideas and draw inspiration from other creative fields. In fact, Renault deliberately avoided disclosing any details regarding the car’s powertrain or performance capabilities, underscoring that this is more a visual homage than an engineering breakthrough.
The Renault Coupe Corbusier features a dramatic fastback rofline joined by futuristic light treatment. (Picture from: CarMagazine)
The Renault Coupe Corbusier serves as a bridge between two seemingly different worlds – architecture and automotive design – demonstrating that the core principles of design can transcend mediums. By taking inspiration from one of the greatest architects of the 20th century, Renault created a concept that stands as both a tribute and a testament to the enduring influence of Le Corbusier. While this car may never grace the roads, it leaves a lasting impression as a symbol of creativity and the limitless possibilities that arise when different disciplines come together.
In the end, the Renault Coupe Corbusier reminds us of the power of collaboration between art, architecture, and automotive design. It celebrates the legacy of Le Corbusier in a way that is both unexpected and fitting, blending the past with the future. This concept is not just a car; it’s an artistic expression, a fusion of ideas, and a testament to the ever-evolving nature of design. Through this concept, Renault not only honors an architectural genius but also pushes the boundaries of what automotive design can be, showing that inspiration can come from the most unexpected places. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOCAR | DEZEEN | CARMAGAZINE ]
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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.
The 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'sfor 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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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 MarcosMini 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 Miniwith 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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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 | CARSTYLING.RU | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC ]
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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 Fidiamarked 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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Whether as a restored classic or a newly built kit, the Mini Marcos embodies a spirit of adventure and creativity that refuses to fade. Its journey reminds us that innovation and passion can keep even the smallest icons alive, proving that some legends truly never die. (Back to its roots). ** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MARCOS-OC | WIKIPEDIA | MAXIMUM MINI | ARONLINE | SILODROME ]
