Lost in Time - In the realm of automotive history, nestled among the familiar names and celebrated models, lies a hidden gem: the Fiat X1/9. While it may not enjoy the same spotlight as its counterparts, this unique vehicle holds a story worth telling.
The 1970 Volkswagen Karmann Cheetah concept car designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro at ItalDesign, based on a shortened 1963 Karman Ghia Type 14 chassis. (Picture from: Pinterest)
The genesis of the Fiat X1/9 traces back to the creative endeavors of Giorgetto Giugiaro, a visionary designer who sought to carve a niche in the automotive world. It was a time when the echoes of the Karmann Ghia still reverberated, and Giugiaro embarked on a mission to craft a worthy successor. This journey of innovation commenced shortly after the unveiling of the Type 34 in 1961.
The 1970 Volkswagen Karmann Cheetah concept car, inspired by the Beetle, featured a 1.6-liter boxer engine producing 50 horsepower. (Picture from: Hog Troglodyte in Flickr)
Giugiaro's fertile imagination bore fruit a decade later with the introduction of the Volkswagen Karmann Cheetah (just like Lamborghini's unfortunate military project) Aptly named, this concept car emerged from the crucible of Giugiaro's newly established design studio, Italdesign, following his departure from Ghia. Drawing inspiration from the Beetle, the Cheetah boasted a 1.6-liter boxer engine, delivering a modest 50 horsepower at its zenith.
The 1970 Volkswagen Karmann Cheetah concept car features a soft-top roof with a wide sunroof panel above the cockpit, elegantly sweeping along the bodywork and neatly tucking between the seats. (Picture from: Hog Troglodyte in Flickr)
Despite its undeniable charm, adorned with pop-up headlamps and the promise of open-top motoring, the Cheetah failed to secure Volkswagen's endorsement. The dream of mass production remained elusive, a tantalizing vision that never materialized. Yet, amidst this setback, a glimmer of hope emerged.
Despite its charm with pop-up headlamps and open-top allure, the Cheetah failed to win Volkswagen's endorsement. (Picture from: Hog Troglodyte in Flickr)
A year after its unveiling at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show, Bertone stepped into the fray, breathing life into Giugiaro's vision. The Fiat X1/9 emerged as the tangible embodiment of his automotive philosophy. Retaining the essence of the Cheetah while undergoing refinement and adaptation, it captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.
Today, the Fiat X1/9 stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation. Its journey from concept to reality is a testament to the indomitable spirit of automotive design. Though it may dwell in the shadows cast by its more illustrious peers, its legacy endures, a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JALOPNIK | VIRTUAGARAGE ]
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Unique ONES - Zagato's unveiling of the Alfa Romeo 2600 SZ added another chapter to the marque's illustrious history. Premiering as a Prototype model at the 1963 Turin Motor Show, this sleek variant boasted a distinctive design that turned heads instantly.
Zagato's unveiling its creation of the Alfa Romeo 2600 SZ Prototipo for the first time at the 1963 Turin Motor Show. (Picture from: Reddit)
Sporting a shortened wheelbase akin to the 2600 Spider, its streamlined body exuded a racing pedigree, highlighted by the iconic Kamm tail. While the front fascia, adorned with a sizable shield proudly displaying the Alfa Romeo emblem, including its double scoop-hood, further accentuated its unique allure.
The Alfa Romeo 2600 SZ Prototipo showcases a streamlined body that exudes racing pedigree, featuring a sizable shield proudly displaying the Alfa Romeo emblem, along with its distinctive double scoop-hood. (Picture from: Pinterest)
No wonder at subsequent showcases, including the 1964 Turin Motor Show and the 1965 Frankfurt Motor Show, the prototype continued to captivate enthusiasts. Notably, the finalized version underwent significant revisions, amplifying its grandeur. With only 105 units ever produced in short time periods of 1965 to 1967, the Alfa Romeo 2600 SZ remained an exclusive gem in Alfa Romeo's lineup.
The Alfa Romeo 2600 SZ Prototipo, exhibited at Rétromobile 2017, was notably distinguished by its iconic Kamm tail at the rear. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Its aluminum straight 6 engine, boasting enhanced power, propelled it to a top speed of 210 km/h. Despite the modest speed increase over its predecessor, the SZ retained remarkable agility, thanks to its meticulously crafted suspension system. Equipped with servo-assisted disc brakes, the 2600 SZ delivered impeccable stopping power, ensuring a safe and exhilarating driving experience.
The Alfa Romeo 2600 SZ (in pictured 1965 model) is presented as much as 105 units in short time periods of 1965 to 1967, and remained an exclusive gem in Alfa Romeo's lineup. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
However, luxury came with a premium price tag of 3,970,000 lira, three times higher than comparable models like the Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GT by Bertone. This made it a coveted possession for affluent enthusiasts who desired unmatched performance and style. The Alfa Romeo 2600 SZ Prototipo is now proudly displayed at the Museo Storico Alfa Romeo outside Milan, alongside other legendary Alfa Romeo cars.
In the annals of automotive history, the Alfa Romeo 2600 SZ stands as a testament to Zagato's mastery of design and engineering. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire admiration among connoisseurs, reminding us of a bygone era defined by innovation and excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSTYLING.RU | HODINKEE ]
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Lesser Known - Who hasn't heard of the iconic VW Beetle? It's a car that's not only known for its distinctive and timeless rounded shape, often compared to a 'bug' or a 'frog,' but it also holds the record for one of the longest production runs in automotive history, spanning from 1938 to 2003, according to Wikipedia.
The 1939 Steyr Type 55 was auctioned by Bonhams in September 2007 and changed hands for approximately £5,520 (equivalent to Rp. 106,384,716). (Picture from: Bonham)
But today, we're not here to delve into the VW Beetle's fascinating history. Instead, let's turn our attention to one of the lesser-known automobiles that emerged from the creative genius of Ferdinand Porsche during his involvement in the 'Volkswagen' project, the brainchild of the people's car. This unique car was introduced to the world by an Austrian automotive company in 1936. So, what's the story behind this vehicle?
The 1939 Steyr Type 55 was auctioned by Bonhams in September 2007 and changed hands for approximately £5,520 (equivalent to Rp. 106,384,716). (Picture from: Bonham)
As revealed by Bonhams, the vehicle that bears a striking resemblance to the VW Beetle is none other than the 1939 Steyr Type 55 Saloon, a creation initially envisioned by Ferdinand Porsche and brought to life by the Austrian arms manufacturer Steyr, which transitioned into the world of automobile manufacturing after World War I and merged with Austro-Daimler in 1935. By the time Ferdinand Porsche had moved on from the company, the Steyr Type 50, the first production car reminiscent of the Beetle, was introduced in 1936, incorporating many innovative concepts that would later be echoed in Porsche's iconic 'Beetle' design.
The 1936 Steyr Type 50 is powered by a 978 cc, horizontally-opposed, water-cooled, side-valve four-cylinder engine, and was officially unveiled to the public at the 1936 Berlin Motor Show. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The sleek and aerodynamic body of the Steyr Type 50 received approval for construction in 1935 under the guidance of Steyr's Director Karl Jenschke. However, just a month later, in November of the same year, Jenschke departed to take up the role of chief designer at the German Adler manufacturer in Frankfurt/Main. The Steyr Type 50 was officially unveiled to the public at the 1936 Berlin Motor Show.
The 1938 Steyr Type 55 sat on display at the Technical Museum Vienna, and powered by a revised 1,158cc powerplant. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Often referred to as the 'Austrian Volkswagen,' the Steyr Type 50 endearingly earned the nickname 'Steyr Baby'. Despite its outward resemblance to the VW Beetle, the Type 50 had many advanced features, including all-round independent suspension and was propelled by a 978cc, horizontally-opposed, water-cooled, side-valve four-cylinder engine, mounted in the front and driving the rear wheels.
The compact Steyr offered more spacious seating and luggage capacity compared to Porsche's Volkswagen, all within a shorter overall length. It also boasted a large sheet metal sliding roof and hydraulic brakes, a significant improvement over the early Volkswagens' cable-operated braking system.
The 1938 Steyr Type 55 while attended at the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
In 1938, the Steyr 'Baby' Type 50 underwent a revision with a larger engine, now a 1,158cc powerplant, while retaining its familiar appearance. This updated version was named the Steyr Type 55. Ultimately, production of the Steyr 'Baby' continued until 1940, with a total of 13,000 units of the 'Steyr-Babys' finding homes. Notably, the 1959 Steyr Type 55 on pictured, was auctioned by Bonhams in September 2007 and changed hands for approximately £5,520 (equivalent to Rp. 106,384,716).
In summary, while the VW Beetle may steal the limelight when it comes to unique and enduring automotive designs, the Steyr Type 50 and Type 55, often referred to as the 'Austrian Volkswagen' or 'Steyr Baby,' stands as a lesser-known but equally fascinating piece of automotive history. Its resemblance to the VW Beetle may catch your eye, but its innovative features, improved space, and advanced engineering are what make it a noteworthy addition to the world of classic cars. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | BONHAM | CONCEPTCARZ ]
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ONE-OFF - The Chevrolet Corvette, an iconic American muscle car, has always captivated enthusiasts with its muscular design and powerful V8 engine. However, its appeal in Europe was limited due to preferences for sleeker European-style cars.
Chevrolet Corvette Rondine concept car by Pininfarina. (Picture from: DriveTribe)
In 1963, Chevrolet recognized the need to attract European consumers and embarked on a transformation journey for the Corvette C2. Teaming up with renowned Italian design house Pininfarina, known for its work with Ferrari and other luxury brands, Chevrolet introduced the Pininfarina Chevrolet Corvette 'Rondine' coupe concept at the 1963 Paris Motor Show.
While retaining the original chassis and 5.4-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower, the Pininfarina Rondine underwent significant aesthetic changes. Unlike the fiberglass body of the original Corvette C2, the Rondine featured a steel exterior, altering its weight distribution and handling characteristics.
Unlike the original Corvette with a fibreglass body, the Rondine was made of steel. (Picture from: DriveTribe)
The redesign eliminated the Corvette's distinctive pop-up lights and elongated the front overhang, giving it a unique appearance reminiscent of European grand tourers. Despite these modifications, the response to the Rondine concept was mixed, leading Chevrolet to reconsider its production feasibility.
Interior of Chevrolet Corvette Rondine. (Picture from: DriveTribe)
Ultimately, the Pininfarina Rondine remained a one-off prototype, residing in the Corvette museum as a testament to Chevrolet's experimentation with European design influences. In 2008, it fetched a staggering $1.2 million at auction, highlighting its significance in automotive history.
While the Rondine may not have entered mass production, its legacy endures as a symbol of Chevrolet's endeavor to adapt to global market preferences while staying true to its American heritage. With its fusion of Italian elegance and American muscle, the Pininfarina Chevrolet Corvette 'Rondine' remains a timeless masterpiece appreciated by enthusiasts worldwide. *** [EKA [09082019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCE | DRIVE TRIBE | MOTORIOUS]
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⛔ THE LEGEND💣 - The Ford Mustang, one of America's iconic muscle cars, is a name that resonates deeply with automotive enthusiasts worldwide. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the iconic Ford Mustang, prompting us to embark on a nostalgic journey through its rich history. Since its debut in 1964, the Mustang has captured hearts and minds with its unique blend of power, style, and performance. This milestone anniversary not only celebrates the Mustang's illustrious past but also introduces exciting new developments that continue to captivate fans everywhere.
Ford approached Lee Iacocca and designer Michael Leone to come up with a special design for the Mustang’s 45th anniversary, based on the then-new fifth-gen 2009 Mustang GT. (Picture from: Jalopnik)
Reflecting on the Mustang's 45th anniversary, which was marked in a memorable way fifteen years ago, we remember the special edition that bore the name of automotive luminary Lee Iacocca. Known for his influential role in shaping Ford's history, Iacocca's collaboration with designer Michael Leone resulted in a unique design for the Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustang, based on the fifth-gen 2009 Mustang GT. This special edition, limited to just 45 units, showcased a blend of sophistication and performance that resonated with collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustang boasted a striking appearance, with smoother lines, a slanted grille, sunken headlights, and a special color of Iacocca Silver. (Picture from: Jalopnik)
The exterior of the 45th Anniversary Mustang boasted a striking appearance, with smoother lines, a slanted grille, sunken headlights, and a special color named Iacocca Silver. The collaboration with Southern California's Gaffoglio Family Metalcrafters brought expertise in composite construction, elevating the Mustang's bodywork to a level reminiscent of aerospace and supercar standards.
Partnering with Southern California's Gaffoglio Family Metalcrafters, Ford tapped into composite construction expertise, elevating the Mustang's bodywork to aerospace and supercar standards. (Picture from: Motortrend)
Performance enhancements included a racing handling package from Ford Performance, high-performance Brembo brakes, and a choice between a stock 4.6-liter V8 engine or a supercharged version with 400 horsepower, both paired with a five-speed manual transmission.
Inside, the interior was mostly stock save for leather seats with diamond stitching and headrests that had Iacocca’s crest. (Picture from: Jalopnik)
Inside the cabin, the 45th Anniversary Mustang featured leather seats with diamond stitching, adorned with Iacocca's crest on the headrests. A leather-wrapped steering wheel replaced with an "I" emblem added a touch of exclusivity to the interior. With only 45 units produced, each carrying a price tag of $89,850, these limited-edition Mustangs quickly became prized possessions among collectors.
The Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustang offers a choice between a stock 4.6-liter V8 engine or a supercharged version with 400 horsepower, each paired with a five-speed manual transmission. (Picture from: Jalopnik)
Over the years, these rare Mustangs have found new homes through auctions, showcasing their enduring appeal and value. From the first unit fetching $125,000 at auction to subsequent sales at various prestigious events, including Barrett-Jackson and Mecum auctions, these cars have continued to command attention and admiration. Iacocca himself was gifted number 32, and he only ever put 220 miles on it. After he passed in 2019, his family sold the car at an auction in January 2020 for $49,280.
The legacy of the 45th Anniversary Mustang extends beyond its exclusivity; it symbolizes the passion and innovation that define the Ford Mustang lineage. As we celebrate 60 years of this automotive icon, we eagerly anticipate what the future holds for the Mustang, knowing that its legacy of performance and style will continue to inspire generations of enthusiasts to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JALOPNIK | MOTORTREND | BARRET-JACKSON | MECUM ]
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⛔ Hidden GEMS 💣 - The following article is about Mercury, a brand of mid-priced automobiles produced by American manufacturer Ford Motor Company from 1938 to 2011, was created by Edsel Ford in 1938 to bridge the gap between Ford and Lincoln model lines. Its main competitors were Buick and Oldsmobile from General Motors, as well as DeSoto and Chrysler from Chrysler Corporation.
The 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser, constructed by Ghia at a cost of $80,000, significantly influenced and propelled the styling of the all-new 1957 Mercury line. (Picture from: Carscoops)
During the 1950s, Mercury showcased a series of impressive concept models that captured the attention of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Notably, the Mercury XM 800 debuted in 1954, followed by the Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser in 1956, which polarized American car enthusiasts with its innovative design.
The 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser show car while sat on display at the 1956 Cleveland Auto Show. (Picture from: Motorcities.org)
Led by John Najjar, the Ford Motor Company design team initially named the concept car the Mandalay in 1954. Jack Reith, a Ford executive, recognized its potential and advocated for further development. The team, including Elwood Engel, Gene Bordinat, Don DeLaRossa, and Larry Shinoda, joined to refine the design.
The front end of the 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser featured a sculpted grille with twin jet pods and included attractive transparent roof panels that could be raised or lowered for both drivers and passengers. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Crafted by Ghia of Italy at a significant cost of $80,000, the 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser became a symbol of show car styling that influenced the all-new 1957 Mercury line. Despite Ford Motor Company's vision of it as an experimental car anticipating future automotive needs, the 1957 Mercury faced challenges in the market.
The 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser' cabin boasted four bucket seats with two-tone leather upholstery. (Picture from: Carscoops)
The 1956 Mercury XM-Turnpike Cruiser featured a unique transparent roof panel and a plastic "butterfly" top, offering a blend of futuristic design elements. Its front end showcased a sculpted grille with twin jet pods and V-shaped taillights, alluding to its innovative styling direction.
The 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser powered bya a 312 CID Y Block V8 engine and Merc-O-Matic transmission. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Inside, the show car boasted four bucket seats with two-tone leather upholstery, powered by a 312 CID Y Block V8 engine and Merc-O-Matic transmission. Its debut at the 1956 Chicago Auto Show marked it as a "preview of the future."
The 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser's rear-end adorned with a unique V-shaped taillights, alluding to its innovative styling direction. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Over the years, the show car endured storage and damage until restoration enthusiast Tom Maruska acquired it in 2017, investing significantly to restore it to its original condition. Maruska's dedication reflects the enduring appreciation for automotive design history.
In essence, the 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser remains a pivotal chapter in automotive design, embodying innovation and timeless styling that continues to inspire admiration among enthusiasts and historians alike.*** [EKA [09112020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSTYLING.RU | CARSCOOPS | MOTORCITIES.ORG | KUSTOMRAMA ]
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Study Design - Concept cars have always fascinated car enthusiasts worldwide with their futuristic designs and advanced technology. Among these innovative creations is the Austin Zanda, a product of British Leyland that debuted in 1969 and quickly became a symbol of cutting-edge design.
The Austin Zanda is a compact sports car concept showcasing Pressed Steel's advanced CAD design techniques and featuring innovative elements like the transverse engine layout borrowed from the Austin Maxi. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Austin Zanda's story begins in 1968 when British Leyland's styling studio, led by Roy Haynes and Harris Mann, embarked on a groundbreaking journey. This marked the birth of the Zanda, a compact sports car concept showcasing Pressed Steel's advanced CAD design techniques and featuring innovative elements like the transverse engine layout borrowed from the Austin Maxi.
The Austin Zanda Concept made its debut at the prestigious 1969 British and New York Motorshows, earning praise for its groundbreaking design and incorporation of modern materials such as glass-fibre reinforced polyester. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Harris Mann, already renowned for his work on iconic models like the Allegro, Princess, and TR7, brought his visionary talent to the Austin Zanda. Despite the mixed reception of some of his earlier designs, Mann's ability to create captivating and unconventional automotive forms was evident in the Zanda's bold and boundary-pushing design.
The Austin Zanda Concept marked Harris Mann's earliest venture into wedge-shaped designs, epitomizing, as another British Leyland advert noted, the future of automotive design. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Austin Zanda debuted at the esteemed 1969 British and New York
Motorshows, lauded for its pioneering design and use of modern materials
like glass-fibre reinforced polyester. It was among stylist Harris
Mann's earliest wedge-shaped designs, symbolizing, as another British
Leyland advert put it, the shape of things to come. This not only
highlighted Mann's creativity but also British Leyland's dedication to
pushing automotive design boundaries.
The Austin Zanda Concept stands as a testament to Mann's visionary talent, proudly displayed at the Motor Heritage Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Mann's success with the Zanda did not go unnoticed, earning him recognition within British Leyland's senior management circles and leading to future projects like the ADO 21. Today, the Austin Zanda stands as a testament to Mann's visionary talent, displayed proudly in the Motor Heritage Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire.
The Austin Zanda's legacy serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of innovative automotive design and honors designers like Harris Mann who dared to reimagine the automotive landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSTYLING.RU | ALLCARINDEX | BRITISHMUSEUM.CO.UK ]
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Despite its undeniable charm, adorned with pop-up headlamps and the promise of open-top motoring, the Cheetah failed to secure Volkswagen's endorsement. The dream of mass production remained elusive, a tantalizing vision that never materialized. Yet, amidst this setback, a glimmer of hope emerged.
Today, the Fiat X1/9 stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation. Its journey from concept to reality is a testament to the indomitable spirit of automotive design. Though it may dwell in the shadows cast by its more illustrious peers, its legacy endures, a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JALOPNIK | VIRTUAGARAGE ]
