Boyd Coddington Ron Simms Custom One of a Kind Prototype Motorcycle

As automotive enthusiasts, of course, you will know Boyd Coddington and Ron Simms as famous figures who have produced many works in the automotive world. 

As we all know, Boyd Coddington is an American hot rod designer, owner of the Boyd Coddington Hot Rod Shop which produces a wide range of custom forged billet styles made in the USA. 

1996 Boyd Coddington-Ron Simms custom one of a kind prototype motorcycle bodywork is inspired by Boyd Coddington's typical hotrod style. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UDMh4Q)

Meanwhile, Ron Simms is an American custom motorcycle builder, who has been building custom motorbikes for more than 30 years and runs his business, Simms Custom Cycles, in Hayward, California.

Then what if the two of them collaborate to build a motorcycle concept? Yes, these two well-known figures in the automotive world are known to have collaborated to build a concept motorcycle in 1996. 

1996 Boyd Coddington-Ron Simms custom one of a kind prototype motorcycle bodywork is completely made of aluminum. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UDMh4Q)

This concept motorcycle was built to compete with the similar design created by Arlen Ness. And also at that time they planned to build more using the same concept but were constrained by high production costs. 

In our opinion, at glance, the concept design of the collaboration result motorcycle of Boyd Coddington and Ron Simms is reminiscent of the aerodynamic bodywork of the BMW R12 motorcycle made by Louis Lepoix in 1947. It's just our simple visual observation on the Coddington and Simms motorcycle bodywork.

1996 Boyd Coddington-Ron Simms custom one of a kind prototype motorcycle looks even more manly with legs equipped with solid double chrome wheels wrapped with Continental tires. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UDMh4Q)

As we can see, the figure of the collaboration-result motorcycle concept is extraordinary and clearly looks inspired by Boyd Coddington's typical hotrod style. The bodywork on this prototype motorcycle is truly special as it is completely made of aluminum. If the mass production of motorbikes is carried out, the bodywork will be made of fiberglass.

1996 Boyd Coddington-Ron Simms custom one of a kind prototype motorcycle uses a a 103 cu in (1,690 cc) Sputhe V-engine combined with a Sputhe 5-speed kicker transmission system. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UDMh4Q)

This red-painted (called 'Boyd Coddington red') custom motorcycle is powered by a 103 cu in (1,690 cc) Sputhe V-engine combined with a Sputhe 5-speed kicker transmission system and is equipped with a P&M braking system with dual floating front rotors. Furthermore, this motorcycle also has no speedometer, turn signals, and horn. It looks even more manly with legs equipped with solid double chrome wheels wrapped with Continental tires.

1996 Boyd Coddington-Ron Simms custom one of a kind prototype motorcycle. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UDMh4Q)

The bike is 1 of 1 and was sold to a collector in Denver, Colorado from whom the current owner purchased the bike in 2004. It has been ridden mostly around town with an occasional ride ranging in the 130 mile round trip range. The bike has been featured in several magazines and can be found in Ron Simms’ order catalog.

1996 Boyd Coddington-Ron Simms custom one of a kind prototype motorcycle. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UDMh4Q)

Needless to say, this custom motorbike attracts attention wherever it goes. Whenever it is parked, people gather around it even when it is parked next to the newest and most flashy bagger.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with true safety riding. God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops.... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RONSUSSER]

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Adams Brothers M-505 Probe 16

What a weird car willing to be talking about right now? Is this a real car? At first glance, many said that the shape was impractical because this car absolutely has no doors. Then how can we access the cockpit? Of course, it is a real car, and You can hop into the car's cockpit via a sliding glass roof. But at least its unique design was enough to illustrate that this is a futuristic car design with advanced features that are said to be inspired by the beauty of women's curves.

The Adams Brothers M-505 Probe 16 / Durango 95 from A Clockwork Orange, on display at the Stanley Kubrick: The Exhibition held at the Design Museum of London from April 26 until September 17, 2019. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/35wOzsK)

This unique car that has sexy body curves was built by Adams Brothers, a British-based automotive manufacturer and is owned by the two brothers of former Marcos automotive designer named Dennis Adams and Peter Adams. This sexy car is named Adams Brothers Probe 16 and known to be built in limited numbers, only 3 units in the 1969 as 'an investigation into extremes of styling' with an internal code M-505.

The Adams Brothers M-505 Probe 16 / Durango 95 from A Clockwork Orange built as 'an investigation into extremes of styling'. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3pxjnS5)

As time went by, the Adams Brothers M-505 better known as the Durango 95, but that has nothing to do with the Dodge Durango. Yes, actually this sexy car was born long before the Dodge Durango model was existed. And the name mentioned above is just a fictional name given after this unique-shaped car appeared in Stanley Kubrick's film titled A Clockwork Orange in 1971.

The Adams Brothers M-505 Probe 16 / Durango 95 from A Clockwork Orange is powered by a mid-mounted Austin 1800 upgrade engine. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3pxjnS5)

This car designer said, that the design of this car is partly inspired by the curves of the female body. However, it is not known to what extent it inspired the designer when they started designing this car. Can you assess it? Furthermore, this sexy British car is powered by a mid-mounted Austin 1800 upgrade engine. So, this unique car is about 34 inches tall and uses wheels measuring 10" at the front while 13" at the rear.

And the three units of the produced car consisted is known that the first car with chassis number AB/2 with a license plate MJO 145H was sold to Jimmy Webb, an American songwriter. The second one with chassis number AB/3 with a plate number PWV 222H was sold to Jack Bruce, the bassist of the band Cream who then gave it to co-band member of Bruce & Laing, Corky Laing as a birthday present. The third, with the AB/4 chassis, has a JFB 220H license plate owned by Robin Gibbons. Those three cars are still in existence today with different owners. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THE DRIVE | CARBUZZ | WIKIPEDIA | BONHAM ]

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The most fancy and unique Porsche 550 Spyder

The Porsche sports car is one of the cars that has a fairly high price, that's not counting if the car in question is one of the rare cars like the Porsche 550 Spyder. Yes, one of the original Porsche 550 Spyder RS ​​cars is sold for ₤ 4,593,500 or the equivalent of Rp. 80 billion in the Bonhams Goodwood Revival 2016 auction event. These prices far exceed the auction result of the same car model with the sky blue color ex Jerry Seinfeld, which is sold at the prices of $ 5,335,000 or approximately Rp. 70.5 billion in March 2016.

This gorgeous Porsche 550 Sypder 'Selfish' is the work of restoration and modification from John and Edison Sarkisyan auto workshop named S-Klub. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/35zegcf)

The expensive prices of those Porsche 550 Spyder mentioned above are understandable because this model is included one of the rarest car models where the German automotive manufacturer only built it in a limited number of 90 units plus it had a series of prestigious achievements in various racing events in the 1950s. So, today only certain circles especially the multi-millionaires can afford to have the scarce model of Porsche 550 Spyder, while others can only dream.

Porsche 550 Spyder 'Selfish' has a driver's seat placed in the middle. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3puwiEd)

However, this does not prevent automotive enthusiasts, especially those who really love those legendary Porsche models from realizing their dream of owning a Porsche 550 Spyder, even though it is only a replica. And recently there was a replica of the legendary Porsche car named the Porsche 550 Spyder 'Selfish.' Uniquely, this car is dressed in such a way with various attractive features such as the single-bucket seat to the gold-plated engine. Wow.

The Porsche 550 Spyder 'Selfish' uses a Volkswagen Type 4 inline four-cylinder engine which in some parts is gold-plated. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3puwiEd)

This gorgeous Porsche 550 Sypder is the work of restoration and modification from John and Edison Sarkisyan auto workshop named S-Klub. In terms of appearance, the Porsche 550 Sypder attracts enough attention thanks to its neat details and preserved classic aura. The exterior appearance of this car uses the color from the Toyota-Lexus color palette named Mystic Brown hue. Then there are custom rims that are in the Fuchs classic design style, but these have a slightly sunken layout to create a more modern look.

The gold accents attached to the machine up to the legs of the Porsche 550 Spyder 'Selfish' looks more neat and fancy. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3puwiEd)

Looking at the cabin of the Porsche 550, it also looks neat with the orange nuanced touches. The car builder uses orange genuine leather to cover the cabin, trunk space, and bottom of the front cargo cover and also inserted a touch of plaid fabric with a matching color to the interior behind the driver's seat.

Other minor touches include the Selfish badge of the car's name, in a font similar to the original "Spyder" emblem. Another part that is no less classy is the driver's seat layout which has been changed to the middle position so that this car can accommodate only one person in its cabin. This fits the name of the car, Selfish, and also makes it more unique.

Not only that, but luxury also radiates from behind the hood of this old-school sports car, where You can find the gold accents attached to the machine up to the legs so that it looks more neat and fancy. The one-seat Porsche 550 Spyder is powered by a Volkswagen Type 4 inline four-cylinder engine, which was swaps its original 2,600cc engine. So, the power amount of 200 hp given out by the machine, is considered enough to bring the 590 kg-weighted vehicles running on the road. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARBUZZ | SXDRV | DRIVETRIBE]

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The Ford GT40's story to be the Italian's Prancing Horse killer

For those of you who have been watched a film titled 'Ford v Ferrari' is premired last year (November 2019) and seems to be familiar with the Ford GT40, it is the first American car able to beat Ferrari in the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance racing arena. Before the Ford GT40 got the nickname 'Ferrari Killer,' it turns out that the story of the mighty car's birth was also fun to be discussed.

Part of Ford's 1966 Le Mans podium, 1966 Ford GT40 Mk II with its racing livery #2. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UoxlHE)

The story begins in the early 1960s, when CEO of Ford Motor Company at that time, Henry Ford II felt curious about whether his company could compete in the world of international motorsport. Then Henry Ford II declared his ambition of winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance racing championship as a first step, because he considered the race was the most competitive racing event at the time.

1966 Ford GT40 Mk II with its racing livery #1. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3pvmfyU)

As we know, in the 1960s, the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race was always dominated by European car brands such as Ferrari, Porsche and Alfa Romeo. And among these brands the most dominating at that time was Ferrari, so the boss of the American manufacturer was interested in buying those prancing horse logoed auto manufacturer in the hope that his racing program would be successful.

Part of Ford's 1966 Le Mans podium, 1966 Ford GT40 Mk II with its racing livery #5. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/32I0oua)

It seems that Henry Ford II is not unrequited, it turns out that Enzo Ferrari was also attracted by the offer from his American colleague, and then both of them decided to hold a meeting to discuss the takeover of the Italian company by the Ford Motor Company. But unfortunately the meeting did not go well and ended in failure, because Enzo Ferrari firmly rejected one of the points in the contract which stated that Ferrari also had to hand over its racing division to the American manufacturer.

Shortly after, Enzo Ferrari and his staff immediately left the meeting room, even though Henry Ford II had flown all the way to Italy and prepared millions of dollars for the deal. Of course, Henry Ford II was very upset and disappointed, upon his arrival America, he immediately gathered his staff in a room and emphatically conveyed his main goal at that time is participated the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance racing event only to beat Ferrari!

To achieve its main goal, the American car manufacturer then estabilished its European headquarter in London under the name of  Ford Advanced Vehicles, and one of the reason for that to be closer to its rival based in Maranello, Italy. Finally in 1964, the racing car that was predicted to beat Ferrari was finished to be built and introduced under the name of the Ford GT40.

Interior view of 1966 Ford GT40 Mk II with its racing livery #1. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3pvmfyU)

The first generation Ford GT40 is equipped with a 4,700 cc V8 engine, which is similar to that used in the Lola GT and Lotus 29 racing cars, but has been modified to give it a better performance. In 1964, the Ford GT40 finally able to meet its rival Ferrari 275P directly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Ford GT40 MK II designed by Carroll Shelby. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3pvmfyU)

Apparently those days were not the Henry Ford II and his team's lucky days, because none of the three of Ford GT40 units that entered the race arena able to complete the race and touch the finish line. On the other hand, Ferrari managed to be the winner of those race event, again Henry Ford II's team was beaten by the Italian's prancing horse team. For a momment, the Ford GT40 starting to be considered and touted as a 'failed' project by the public.

1966 Ford GT40 Mk II with its racing livery #2. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/35ts3AM)

Once again they returned to America sadly, and upon arrival at the house Henry Ford II looked for the right way to solve this problem, and soon he decided to team up with Caroll Shelby who is well known for his performance in Daytona endurance racing. It wasn't long after Caroll Shelby worked on the Ford racing team and found many problems within the first generation Ford GT40, such as in the engine, aerodynamics, gearbox, and many more. After being modified by Shelby, finally the latest generation of Ford GT40 was born and known as the Ford GT40 MK II.

1966 Ford GT40 Mk II with its racing livery #1. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3pvmfyU)

Now, the Caroll Shelby-made Ford GT40 is uses a V8 engine which previously had 350 hp, after being upgraded to 450 hp. As a warming up as well as the preparation before entering the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Ford GT40 competed in the Daytona 2000 endurance race held in February 1965. From this event, a glimmer of hope began to emerge, after it was driven hundreds of kilometers non-stop, the Ford GT40 managed to become the winner of the prototype class.

1966 Ford GT40 Mk II with its racing livery #5. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/32I0oua)

In the following year, the Ford GT40, piloted by Ken Miles and Bruce McLaren, also won other endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring. But what has been waiting, and of course, is the 24 Hours of Le Mans 1966 is a means of proving that the Ford GT40 is no longer 'fragile' anymore.

The historical moment when the Ford team finished 1-2-3 with three (#2, #1 and #5) of its GT40 racing cars at the 24 Hours of Le Mans 1966. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3lyuIib)

At the endurance race event of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966, three Ford GT40 units were seen leading the race in the early rounds, followed by the Ferrari 330 behind them. But when the race entered the night, the Ferrari 330 racing car could overtake the three Ford GT40 units in front of it and lead the race until the next day. And while the Ferrari 330 was leading the course of the race suddenly had crashed due to a tire burst and made the day a lucky day for the Ford team.

Immediately the three Ford GT40 units returned to lead the race and were able to maintain the 1-2-3 position until the finish flag was raised. This achievement proves that all the efforts of the board of directors of the American manufacturer, especially Henry Ford II and his racing team, to be able to build a racing car that can beat the Italian prancing horse Ferrari were not in vain and ultimately bear sweet results, so that the 'Ferrari Killer' title deserves to be carried by the Ford GT40.

Amazingly, after the Ford GT40's victory in 1966, the Italian's prancing horse never won again in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In contrast to Ford, who managed to become the defending champion at the 24 Hours of Le Mans from 1966 to 1969 together with its Ford GT40 racing cars.

Although initially the Ford GT40 was a prototype car specifically made for racing purposes, finally a new road-legal car called the Ford GT was born in 2005 which is also a directly-breed of the Ford GT40. The advantages of this new road-legal car is equipped with a V8 supercharged engine. So that the Ford GT is claimed to be had nice performance numbers of 0-100 kph acceleration in under 3.8 seconds, and the top speed can reach a number of 328 kph! *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SILODROME]

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Mangusta, a fierce motorcycle that reflects the raging bull's identity

So far, the public knows that Lamborghini-logoed motorbikes are still only a concept on the paper. Although in fact the raging bull-logoed manufacturer ever once made a sports motorbike named Lamborghini Design 90 even if in the form of a prototype. The bike is known was the result of collaboration the Sant'Agata Bolognese-based manufacturer with a French motorcycle racing specialists of Boxer Bike (now named Boxer Design) and only 6 units ever made in 1989.

Lamborghini Mangusta concept motorcycle by Yasid Design. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3pmEDKe)

Recently there's a designer named Yasid Design, who is known not only as a vehicle designer but as an artist. He has many quite interesting virtual works that are born from his magic hand scratches and brilliant thoughts.

This time, he brought out a two-wheeled vehicle design bearing the raging bull badge and is gave the name Lamborghini Mangusta (an Italian word for 'mongoose'). Even though it had a name that had nothing to do with the bull as usual, but the design he made managed to embody the raging bull spirit. Because the mongoose is also a quite aggressive species.

Lamborghini Mangusta concept motorcycle by Yasid Design. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3pmEDKe)

According to the designer, this motorcycle was built on the basis of the Ducati Diavel. And the Diavel selection is said to be the perfect choice in creating a wild machine worthy of wearing the Lambo badge. Then the Mangusta aesthetic truly reflects the language of the Italian supercar brand, as it combines metal and carbon fiber to create a strong yet lightweight ride.

And the only thing that doesn't have a sharp curve is the seat. The reason is quite clear. As many would expect, this model gets an over-the-top style with angular bodywork with sharp edges. And some details of the body still embody its typical raging bull figures. Almost all of the body panels appear to be made of carbon fiber.

Lamborghini Mangusta concept motorcycle by Yasid Design. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3pmEDKe)

Furthermore, the Y-shaped LED headlights and taillight strips look sleek, seemingly inspired by the Lamborghini Vision Gran Turismo Concept revealed last year. The tank and seat are made to appear together, with a little sculpting at the bottom. Then, in the front is left open with no fender. Instead, there's the covers that adopting sharp corners to wrap the front suspensions.

Although taking the base from Diavel, the designer created a trellis frame which is quite elegant. Besides, the contrasting color with the carbon fiber clad cover makes it look more charming, also its carbon fiber panel hides most of the original motorcycle design elements.

Uniquely the belt drive device is still visible from the trellis frame to the one-sided swing arm. Then the bottom of this motorcycle looks quite attractive, where the front of the engine is closed neatly. Besides, the frame cover is made to extend to cover the single arm with a curved body sharply combined with a firm line like an Italian supercar.

Lamborghini Mangusta concept motorcycle by Yasid Design. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3pmEDKe)

While the other side covers the two-hole exhaust which is located right under the rider's seat. Designer is expanding the wheelbase to create a more elegant and elongated motor, but he hasn't said anything about the bike's technical specifications. Although there is no detailed information regarding the engine specs, it looks like it is based on the XDiavel S fierce engine.

It could be said that this model still relies on a conventional engine instead of an electric powertrain. Of the images of the Lamborghini Mangusta concept is seen wrapped in Reventon silver and Aventador yellow, meanwhile, Ducati's distinctive red color has been removed.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | YASID DESIGN | CARSCOOPS | RIDE APART ]

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Abarth Scorpione Coupe

After discussing one of the beautiful cars that the Abarth & C. S.p.A. had worked on in collaboration with Carrozzeria Ghia in 1953 named Abarth 205 Sports 1100. So, on this occasion, we will discuss other sports cars that have been built by the Turin-based automotive manufacturer in the 1950s and 1960s such as the Fiat-Abarth 750/850 sports car models.

1959 Fiat-Abarth 850 Coupé Scorpione Allemano. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3ljik5E)

Actually, this car adopts the floorplan of the Fiat 600 and is featured with an Abarth upgraded engine. These models also created several derivatives, which were sold as the Fiat-Abarth 850, Fiat-Abarth 1000, and Abarth Monomille (1000 pushrod).

1959 Fiat-Abarth 850 Coupé Scorpione Allemano. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3ljik5E)

Abarth also offers a number of bodyworks from several coachbuilders, such as Zagato, Allemano, and several others. One of Abarth's most iconic and successful designs is the Abarth 750 GT Zagato Coupé with its typical double-bubbled roof. Other successes include the Abarth Record Monza, as well as the Abarth Allemano Spyder and Allemano Coupé.

1959 Fiat-Abarth 850 Coupé Scorpione Allemano. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3ljik5E)

Meanwhile, the Fiat-Abarth 850 Coupé Scorpione with coachwork done by Allemano and became one of the rarest of their creations. The Scorpione was first shown at the 1959 Geneva Motor Show. It was equipped with an 833 cc Fiat 850 single-cam engine capable of developing a power of 51 hp (38 kW) at 6,000 rpm, and made the Scorpione can afford the top speed of 96 mph or 154 kph.

1959 Fiat-Abarth 850 Coupé Scorpione Allemano. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3ljik5E)

Abarth 850 Coupé Scorpione is also equipped with a rear-wheel-drive system, with a four-speed manual transmission. Scorpione can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 14.3 seconds. Although this coupé model looks more elegant and comfortable than the Zagato version, it is heavier in weight and is considered less sporty by some.

It is estimated that only 41 units of this Fiat-Abarth 850 Coupé Scorpione have ever been built by Allemano, where this car offers a number of comfort with light steering, compact seating. four-speed gearbox, so that the sensation of fun to drive can be felt. It's no surprise that the Scorpione is one of the most iconic and rarest Abarth cars of all time. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VELOCETODAY | CARSTYLING.RU ]

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Back to 1970s and 1980s with Fiat X1/9

Of course you still remember the Ferrari 308 GT Rainbow prototype made by the famous Italian automotive design house, Bertone in 1976 for Ferrari. At first glance, the prancing horse prototype model has a similar design to the mid-engined targa style sports car called the Fiat X1/9.

Front three-quarter of the 1974 Fiat X1/9. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/35hOWqQ)

And it turns out that the designs of those two car models were actually designed by Marcello Gandini of Bertone. Furthermore, only the Fiat X1/9 entered the Fiat production line from 1972 to 1982, then the production continued by Bertone from 1982 to 1989. Meanwhile, the Ferrari 308 GT Rainbow did not fare well and should stop at the prototype stage only.

Interior view of the 1974 Fiat X1/9. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/35hOWqQ)

Besides being powered by a mid-mounted transverse engine, the car also applied in a rear-wheel drive configuration, it turns out that the Fiat X1/9 is also famous for its quite slick handling capabilities, then has also a retractable unique headlight, a removable hardtop, and a storage compartment at the front and back.

The X1/9 exterior design also nicely featured with the long flat bonnet design with centered indentations, large front overhangs, a wedge shape with a prominent C-pillar roll-over ring and elegant curved lines along the body, so made it looks very distinctive, and always able to be attention center to those everyone who looks at it.

Rear three-quarter of the 1974 Fiat X1/9. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/35hOWqQ)

As mentioned earlier the X1/9 design was engineered by Marcello Gandini of Bertone automotive design house. Initially the sports car was scheduled to debut at the 1972 Turin Motor Show, but was later delayed for several weeks, to avoid clashing with the launching scheduled of the new Fiat 126 citycar.

Finally, the launch of the Fiat X1/9 coincided with its test ride in front of the mass media in late November 1972, by taking place on the Sicily roads which were also known as the host of a popular road racing event at the time called the Targa Florio.

Engine view of the 1986 Bertone-Fiat X1/9. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/35hOWqQ)

The Fiat X1/9 is equipped with a 78 cubic-inch S4 engine with a capacity of 1,290cc, mated to a 4-speed manual transmission system. The engine is capable of generating power up to 73 hp (54 kW), which provides a good start for accelerating from 0-60 mph in 12.2 seconds, before reaching speeds of 100 mph or 160 kph.

Then after nearly 18 years the Fiat X1/9 was produced by both Fiat and Bertone, finally its production was stopped in 1989. It seems that these sportscar was successfull in the world's auto-market, because during the production period, a total of 140,500 cars were released from the Fiat production line, while 19,500 units were produced by Bertone. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOMOBILEMAG]

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Another ugly duckling of 1930s

When the world's automotive began to look for the ideal shape of the vehicle through a series of models created by scientists. Perhaps you have ever known about the 1920s Auto Union legendary car (the forerunner of today's Audi) which earned the nickname 'ugly duckling,' because of its shape which was very different from the four-wheeled motorized vehicles that existed at the time.

1938 Fiat 500A Topolino Hard Top by Zagato participated on the 1938 Mille Miglia (B&W photo colorized). (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3ka0e4D)

In the 1930s, when the world was in a very deep recession. At that time, a unique designed vehicle with was born in Germany as a brainchild of Dr. Ferdinand Porsche, which was projected as a people's vehicle which later known as the legendary vehicle of all time called the Volkswagen Beetle.

Fiat 500, production version of the 1936. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2GFU9iR)

It seems the Italian also doesn't want to be left behind, from this country there's a similar-designed four-wheeled vehicle was made, which is also known as the world's first city car named Fiat 500 Topolino. The Fiat 500 Topolino project was led by Antonio Fessia, with the chassis, and engine design assigned to Dante Giacosa. Topolino is the Italian name for Mickey Mouse, so it can be interpreted as a reliable and affordable small vehicle.

Designer Dante Giacosa with the Fiat 500 Prototype, Piedmont, Italy, October 1934.  Antonio Fessia photo. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2GFU9iR)

This tiny car which has a length of about 3.2 meters and also equipped with an engine with a capacity of 569 cc which is capable of producing about 13 hp of power and a topspeed of only 85 kph.  As is known, the Fiat 500 Topolino is a car model that Fiat began mass production ranging from 1936 to 1955. It doesn't stop there, it turns out that the legendary Fiat 500 model was then continued by various of modern Fiat city car models to date.

Fiat 500C cross-sectional view showing restyled nose, built-in headlamps and enclosed spare wheel compartment. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2GFU9iR)

Apart from being a mass-produced road legal vehicle, the Fiat 500 Topolino model was also used as the base of racing car to compete in various world racing events at that time. In the same time also Fiat was looking for the right formula for their racing cars based on the Fiat 500 Topolino that were going to compete in various racing events, so then the Italian auto manufacturer commissioned its compatriot coachbuilder Zagato to prepare the vehicles.

1938 Fiat 500A Topolino Hard Top by Zagato. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/36iredd)

As quoted from the Zagato website, at that time the famous coachbuilder from Italy made at least 6 different car models ranging from coupes to barchetta (1937 Fiat 500 A Topolino Zagato Aerodinamica I, 1937 Fiat 500 A Topolino Zagato Aerodinamica II, 1938 Fiat 500 A Topolino Zagato Aerodinamica IV, 1938 Fiat 500 A Topolino Hard Top Zagato, 1938 Fiat 500 A Topolino Zagato Aerodinamica III, and 1938 Fiat 500 A Topolino GS Zagato), but the whole models taken the base of the Fiat 500 Topolino with the elongated hood and rounded body seemed to be a trend in the 1920s to 1930s so that at that time it was widely applied to four-wheeled vehicles that prioritized speed.

Of course, these elongated hood with rounded body design were intended to create the car's perfect aerodynamic factor due to the car was built for racing purposes which is identic with speed. The Topolino based racing car with removable hardtop was one of 6 Zagato's designed cars that had ever participated on the 1938 Mille Miglia. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAGATO | AUTOUNIVERSUM ]

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