SHADO Treasures - Gerry Anderson, known for his iconic sci-fi puppetry in the '60s, surprised everyone in 1969 by delving into a new realm – a little-known show featuring live actors. If you're yearning for a touch of silver catsuits and purple wigs in today's society, this journey back to 1969 might be just what you're looking for.
SHADO's Commander Ed Straker's car is a notable addition to the UFO car series featured in Gerry Anderson's visionary sci-fi TV series from the 1960s. (Picture from: Hemmings)
In the realm of '60s sci-fi and Gerry Anderson's visionary creations, this lesser-known gem not only provided a glimpse into an imagined future but also left an indelible mark with its unique blend of creativity and practicality. As we ponder the show's idiosyncrasies and innovations, one can't help but marvel at the audacity of envisioning a world where alien defense and stylish cars converged in a captivating symphony of imagination.
The show transported us into the futuristic landscape of 1980, accurately predicted an alien invasion aiming to abduct humans for their body parts – a dark and captivating premise. The defenders against these otherworldly threats were the members of SHADO, the Supreme Headquarters Alien Defence Organization, a club seemingly as exclusive as escaping Virgin Media's relentless mailing list. Intrigued by the title sequence?
The SHADO Commander Ed Stalker's car touted as turbine-powered with power-operated gull-wing doors and a built-in mobile phone. (Picture from: SlotForum)
Derek Meddings, the creative genius behind the show's design, had previously lent his talents to numerous Gerry Anderson productions. For a more in-depth look at his work, particularly the two full-sized vehicles in this TV series—the cars driven by SHADO's Commander Ed Straker and field commander Paul Foster—explore his book, '21st Century Visions'.
Commander Ed Straker's car stood proudly among the operational jeeps of the SHADO board in front of its headquarters. (Picture from: Forum-RetroRide)
The special effects team, well-versed in crafting models for filming,
took an unconventional approach when tasked with creating a real car. Alan Mann Racing, renowned for their work on the iconic Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, was given the responsibility, drawing on their expertise in racing Fords.
All cars, including SHADO Commander Ed Straker and Foster's, were built over a six-month period on modified Zephyr-Zodiac Mk4 platforms, equipped with Escort engines and gearboxes. (Picture from: TheNorthernEcho)
The Ford connection added an interesting layer as the UFO cars featured in the series were constructed on Ford Zephyr running gear, equipped with a 1600 Cortina engine. UFO cars, indeed! Colonel Foster sported his own attention-grabbing lilac stunner.
Straker's car is the 'basic' version, while Foster's vehicle boasts added details like air scoops and subtle extensions to alter its appearance. (Picture from: Forum-RetroRide)
Yet, the most prominent in the fleet was the brown coupe used by SHADO's Commander Straker for his daily excursions. This vehicle had its roots in the 1969 movie "Doppelgänger" (also known as "Journey to the Far Side of the Sun"), a film produced and written by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson.
Both car bodies (Straker and Foster's) were handcrafted from aluminum, with doors requiring manual lifting by a stagehand off-screen for character exits, as they did not open automatically.(Picture from: SlotForum)
Touted as turbine-powered with power-operated gull-wing doors and a built-in mobile phone, the truth behind the glamour was fascinating. The car, with its aluminum bodywork, sat on a modified Zephyr-Zodiac Mk IV chassis, housing an Escort engine and gearbox.
As you can see, Foster's car appears longer than Straker's; these extensions not only add length but also enhance its sleek appearance. (Picture from: SlotForum)
Contrary to the futuristic depiction, the phone was merely a prop, and
the doors required manual effort to lift, as revealed in several
pictures. Ultimately,
it stands as a testament to the enduring charm of vintage sci-fi,
resonating with enthusiasts and curious minds alike, bridging the gap
between the past and our present fascination with the unknown.
Foster's car featured prominent air scoops and subtle extensions to the front and rear bodywork. (Picture from: GerryAnderson)
Unique ONES - The realm of automotive innovation often sparks from the fusion of iconic car designs. Among these amalgamations, the Dunham Coach Motor Car Company's creation, the Corvorado, stands out as a peculiar masterpiece. In the realm of unique cars, the Corvorado, a hybrid of the 1970s Chevy Corvette and Cadillac Eldorado, holds a distinctive position.
In the realm of unique cars, the Corvorado, a hybrid of the 1970s Cadillac Eldorado and Chevy Corvette, holds a distinctive position. (Picture from: Madle.org)
Dunham's workshop in New Jersey birthed seven of these peculiar creations, with one even gracing the silver screen in the James Bond film Live and Let Die. Les Dunham, the mastermind behind this automotive spectacle, aptly dubbed his creation the Corvorado, showcasing his ingenuity in blending two classic car models. The result is a visual marvel that captures attention and sparks intrigue.
The Corvorado crafted by Dunham Coach Motor Car Company, and adorned with a faux exhaust, spare tire, two-tone paint, and colossal "Super Fly" headlights. (Picture from: Madle.org)
Crafting the Corvorado involved melding parts from early 1970s Eldorados seamlessly onto a partially stripped C3 Corvette chassis. The A-pillars and T-tops, cleverly integrated, camouflage the Corvette's origins.
Inside, the Corvorado offered a luxurious experience, though photographic evidence remains sparse. (Picture from: Madle.org)
Later iterations of the Corvorado employed fiberglass cut from molds derived from the initial steel cars, accentuating the audacity of this fusion. To elevate the extravagance, Dunham adorned the vehicle with a faux exhaust, spare tire, two-tone paint, and colossal "Super Fly" headlights.
As you can see, some Corvorados boasted custom "pedestrian slicer" wire wheels with centers extending beyond the tires, creating a spectacle of opulence. (Picture from: Madle.org)
In a nod to excess, some Corvorados boasted custom "pedestrian slicer" wire wheels with centers extending beyond the tires, creating a spectacle of opulence. These cars, aptly dubbed "pimp phones," paved the way for their features to influence mainstream Eldorados, Cadillacs, and Stutz Blackhawks, adding an air of eccentricity to the automotive scene, particularly in the streets of New York, where pimps took the wheel.
Propelled by a standard Corvette 350 ci V8 engine paired
with an automatic transmission, the Corvorado preserved the integrity of
its original drivetrain.(Picture from: Reddit)
Powering the Corvorado was a standard Corvette 350 ci V8 engine linked to an automatic transmission, maintaining the integrity of the original drivetrain. Robust springs and shocks provided necessary support for the heavy loads, from the chrome steel radiator shell to the oversized bumpers and flamboyant chrome features.
One of the seven Corvorados crafted by Les Dunham had played a role in the James Bond film 'Live and Let Die.'(Picture from: MotorBiscuit)
Inside, the Corvorado offered a luxurious experience, though photographic evidence remains sparse. Some even boasted waterfalls with storage tanks in the trunk, a testament to Dunham's commitment to extravagance.
This neglected Corvorado discovered in Chicago is currently undergoing a gradual restoration, shedding light on the mysterious destiny of these unique vehicles. (Picture from: MotorBiscuit)
Regrettably, fuel shortages and changing automotive trends in the 1970s resulted in the abandonment of several Corvorados, even by their extravagant owners. A neglected Corvorado discovered in Chicago is currently undergoing a gradual restoration, shedding light on the mysterious destiny of these unique vehicles.
Yet, as time progressed, interest in these unique creations experienced a renaissance. A reproduction in California and the enduring curiosity surrounding Dunham's series production cars attest to the enduring legacy of the Corvorado, an automotive oddity that refuses to fade into obscurity. In the grand tapestry of automotive history, Dunham's creations, including the Corvorado, stand as vibrant testaments to the spirit of innovation that thrives on the unexpected and the extravagant. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DUNHAM COACH | MOTORBISCUIT | HEMMINGS | MADLE.ORG | REDDIT ]
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Forgotten ONES - In the dynamic tapestry of Brazilian automotive history, hidden gems and unique creations surface, spotlighting the skill of Samba's artisans. As we venture into the less-explored stories of Brazil's automotive scene, a captivating narrative of craftsmanship unfolds, transcending borders and echoing the innovative spirit—enter the Cisne Prateado (Portuguese for Silver Swan). It's crucial to note that this isn't the work of today's trendy Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.
The Cisne Prateado (Portuguese for Silver Swan) was a remarkable piece of automotive artistry took shape at Auto Mecânica Atenas in São Paulo, nestled between 1956 and 57. (Picture from: LexicarBraziland refurbished by Visual Paradigm Online)
Nestled between 1956 and 57, a remarkable piece of automotive artistry took shape at Auto Mecânica Atenas in São Paulo. The masterminds behind this creation were none other than Constantin Theodore Kessar, a Greek immigrant, and Miguel Borrel, a Spaniard. Both brought their wealth of experience from the global automobile industry – Kessar from GM and Ford in the USA, and Borrel from the renowned Spanish Pegaso, a manufacturer of cutting-edge sports cars in the 1950s.
The Cisne Prateado's stunning designs were crafted by Constantin Theodore Kessar and Miguel Borrel. (Picture from: LexicarBraziland refurbished by Visual Paradigm Online)
Built on a North American Ford chassis, the car boasted an engine meticulously tuned to unleash a formidable 145 horsepower. The fuel pump, radiator, and filters underwent resizing to accommodate the additional 40 horsepower, with the transmission sourced from a Lincoln.
However, the true masterpiece was the meticulously handcrafted steel body of the Brazilian Silver Swan by Borrel. (Picture from: LexicarBraziland refurbished by Visual Paradigm Online)
The pièce de résistance, however, was the steel body of this Brazilian Silver Swan meticulously handcrafted by Borrel. This canvas became the embodiment of the team's ingenuity, featuring a blend of practical and avant-garde elements. Among the standout features were the whimsical "stability wings" – fish tails conceived to enhance safety, the opulent "gold-plated" grille details, and an external paint job that boasted an astonishing 54 shades of maroon.
Standout features included whimsical 'stability wings' – fish tails for safety, opulent 'gold-plated' grille details, and an exterior with 54 shades of maroon. (Picture from: LexicarBraziland refurbished by Visual Paradigm Online)
The team's inventive flair extended to the car's functionality, with upward-sliding door windows seamlessly disappearing into the roof. Additionally, two travel suitcases adorned with the same material as the upholstery found a unique home behind the seats, as the car embraced a minimalist design with only two seats and no traditional trunk.
The Cisne Prateado built on a North American Ford chassis, the car boasted an engine meticulously tuned to unleash a formidable 145 horsepower. (Picture from: LexicarBrazil and refurbished by Visual Paradigm Online)
Imbued with the fervor surrounding the nascent Brazilian automobile industry, Auto Mecânica Atenas harbored ambitious plans to metamorphose into a manufacturer specializing in bespoke bodies. However, the realization of these aspirations hinged on securing the necessary financial backing – a goal that, unfortunately, remains shrouded in uncertainty, with no reports confirming the success of their endeavors.
The Cisne Prateado featured in black-and-white photos within a 1950s German magazine article. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)
As we navigate the annals of Brazilian automotive history, this unsung tale of creativity and ambition serves as a testament to the diverse and dynamic spirit that permeates the country's automotive landscape. It underscores the significance of acknowledging these hidden gems, ensuring that the legacy of remarkable craftsmanship endures, even in the shadows cast by more prominent players on the global stage. Brazil's automotive tapestry, rich and multifaceted, continues to unravel, revealing stories that captivate and celebrate the artistry born from the fusion of passion and innovation. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LEXICAR BRAZIL | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCAR | ALLCARINDEX | ERWINHORST.NL | GARAGEMBRASIL ]
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Rare ONES - In the realm of automotive allure, the internet serves as a tempting den for enthusiasts. Subscribed to various feeds, we strive to break free from the notion that modern cars are mere commodities. Occasionally, we stumble upon a vehicle that is unfamiliar but captivates our attention.
The 1970 Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon specimen being identified as No. 1. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)
The significance of a car's name extends beyond mere identification; it serves multiple purposes, from commercial branding to conveying the essence of the vehicle. Interestingly, a name intended for a singular car may find itself mirrored elsewhere, creating automotive doppelgangers.
The Griffon, initially named Flying Pegasus for serial production, was crafted by Carrozzeria Watanabe from 1970 to 1984, built upon the foundation of the Honda S600. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)
Consider the Griffon, a name borrowed from a legendary mythological creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle. As discussed earlier, this name graces a sports car from Brazil, designed by Dawilson Lucato and Mario Belatto Jr.
The 1970 Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon powered by S600's 606 cc 4 cylinder engine, generating 57 bhp at a thrilling 8,500 rpm. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)
Surprisingly, the Griffon's existence is not confined to Brazil alone. In Japan, a recent discovery introduces us to the Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon. The 60s witnessed a motorsport frenzy in Japan, prompting the emergence of a domestic industry catering to the demand for speed.
One of the Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffons took on a role in the 1974 Japanese TV series 'Dengeki!! Strada 5.' (Picture from: IMCDB.org)
Masao Watanabe, a wizard in setting up Formula 3 cars, transitioned to crafting his own road/race cars from 1970 to 1984. Subsequently, the company evolved into an alloy wheel/rim manufacturer, maintaining its vitality. The inaugural road car, initially named Flying Pegasus and later rebranded as Griffon for serial production, was based on the Honda S600. However, the term "serial" is loosely applied, as fewer than 10 units were ever produced.
The 1970 Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon showcased improved aerodynamics, enabling it to reach speeds exceeding 160 kph—modest by contemporary supercar standards, yet its exoticism and aesthetics remain timeless. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)
Powered by the S600's 606 cc 4 cylinder engine, generating 57 bhp at a thrilling 8,500 rpm, the Griffon showcased improved aerodynamics, enabling it to reach speeds exceeding 160 kph—modest by contemporary supercar standards, yet its exoticism and aesthetics remain timeless.
While preserving the Honda S600's mechanical core and incorporating fiberglass bodywork, the 1970 Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon justified its premium price with special glass and custom rims. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)
Watanabe sought to market a modified version of the Flying Pegasus through the Griffon, maintaining the mechanical foundation of the Honda S600 while offering fiberglass bodywork as a kit. Its elevated price tag, attributed to specific glazing and specially manufactured rims, resulted in only 4 or 5 units sold, depending on sources.
The distinctive Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon was constructed on the foundation of a Nissan Fairlady SR311, showcasing a powerful 2-liter engine. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)
Presently, two survivors are known to exist, with the red specimen being identified as No. 1. Approximately 5 units were produced, and one of them took on a role in the Japanese TV series Dengeki!! Strada 5 led to the creation of model replicas.
Another intriguing Griffon variant, though information is scarce, appears to be based on a Nissan Fairlady SR311, featuring a 2-liter engine. Photos of this car, abandoned in a parking lot, hint at its mysterious history, adding to the allure of the Griffon lineage.
In the vast automotive landscape, where each vehicle carries a unique narrative, the Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon stands as a testament to the pursuit of speed, craftsmanship, and the enduring fascination with automotive aesthetics. As we navigate through the digital realm of automotive eye candy, these discoveries remind us that true gems are often hidden beneath the surface, waiting to be unearthed. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WATCHPROSITE | AUTOMOBILE-JAPONAISES | CCDISCUSSION | IMCDB.ORG | ALLCARINDEX | HEMMINGS ]
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Rare ONES - Entering the challenging era of the 1990s, Bugatti Automobiles, the renowned French car manufacturer, found itself in dire straits. At the time, under the ownership of Romano Artioli, the company had recently released the Bugatti EB110, a sportscar based on Marcello Gandini's design, in hopes of reviving its fortunes.
The Rinspeed Bugatti Cyan built based on the recently unveiled Bugatti EB 100 GT, and made its debut at the 1994 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: Pinterest)
Forgotten ONES - Brazil, which is often overlooked in the global automotive arena, turns out to produce many domestic producers which then make this country an important player in the automotive world. Amidst the myriad of lesser-known automotive creations, one standout is the Griffon, a Brazilian sports car that debuted in the early 1970s, leaving an enduring impression with its distinctive design. The name Griffon is inspired by a legendary mythological creature, boasting the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle.
The Griffon was a Brazilian sports car designed by Dawilson Lucato and Mario Belatto Jr. in the early 1970s, debuted at the 1981 São Paolo Motor Show, and leaving an enduring impression with its distinctive design. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)
The genesis of the Griffon can be traced back to the São Carlos Technical School, Usp, where two former students, Dawilson Lucato and Mario Belatto Jr., embarked on a remarkable journey. Initiated as a practical assignment in 1974, the project took shape slowly, resulting in the creation of two prototypes after nearly seven years of meticulous development.
The Griffon was initiated as a practical assignment of the São Carlos Technical School in 1974, the project took shape slowly, resulting in the creation of two prototypes after nearly seven years of meticulous development. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)
In the initial stages, as the vehicle's fundamental characteristics were being defined, the duo sought assistance from the Aircraft Laboratory of the EESC Department of Mechanical Engineering. This collaboration infused aeronautical concepts into the design, reflecting in the Griffon's aerodynamic and ergonomic features, encapsulated in the iconic wedge shape reminiscent of the 1970s.
The Griffon was based on the Volkswagen Brasília 1600 mechanical platform, although a specialized chassis was concurrently designed to accommodate various engines, adopting a transverse mid-engine layout. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)
The prototype was based on the Volkswagen Brasília 1600 mechanical platform, although a specialized chassis was concurrently designed to accommodate various engines, adopting a transverse mid-engine layout. This engineering marvel produced a vehicle with a commendably low drag coefficient (Cx 0.35), considering the mechanics employed, and a lightweight performance.
The Griffon crafted
from fiberglass reinforced plastic, the Griffon's body exhibited not
only easy access to mechanical components but also impeccable internal
and external finishing. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)
Crafted from fiberglass reinforced plastic, the Griffon's body exhibited not only easy access to mechanical components but also impeccable internal and external finishing. Boasting an efficient ventilation and soundproofing system, concealed windshield wipers and headlights, internal control mirrors, electric windows, and a leather interior, the Griffon was a testament to meticulous craftsmanship.
The Griffon boasting an efficient ventilation and soundproofing system, concealed windshield wipers and headlights, internal control mirrors, electric windows, and a leather interior. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)
In 1981, the Griffon made its debut at the São Paolo Motor Show, captivating automotive enthusiasts with its avant-garde design. However, despite the acclaim, the design and tooling were put up for sale the following year, without any takers.
The Griffon engineering marvel produced a vehicle with a commendably low drag coefficient (Cx 0.35), considering the mechanics employed, and a lightweight performance. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)
Mario Belatto Jr., one of the visionaries behind the Griffon, continued to contribute to the automotive world by participating in the design of other vehicles like the Buggy, Cheda, and Ventura. In the 90s, he harbored plans to include the Griffon in his own factory's production lineup, envisioning a new version with a mid-engine configuration using the Chevrolet Monza chassis.
The Cheda was another Mario Belatto Jr.'s car creation during 1990s. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Tragically, Mario's sudden demise in 1996, at the age of 42, brought an abrupt end to the Griffon's journey. The untimely loss not only marked the conclusion of Mario's significant contributions to the automotive industry but also closed the chapter on the Griffon, leaving behind a legacy that continues to fascinate enthusiasts and stands as a testament to Brazilian ingenuity in the realm of sports cars. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RARECOMPONENTCARS | ARQUIVODOCARRONACIONAL ]
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Study Design - In Ferrari's rich history, the dance with 4-wheel drive technology is a tale of exploration rather than a favored path. Mauro Forghieri, the revered engineer overseeing Scuderia's racing evolution, ventured into the 4wd concept for Formula 1. The test car, the 312B3 or 'snow plough,' emerged, integrating parts from other race cars, showcasing a distinctive appearance with an integrated front wing/spoiler.
The two Ferrari 408 Integrale prototypes, one in classic red (70183) and the other in vibrant canary yellow (78610), serve as a dynamic laboratory for groundbreaking 4WD sportscar technologies led by a visionary Mauro Forghieri. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Inspired by the 1961 Ferguson P99 Climax, the 312B3 became the pioneer 4wd F1 car, signifying the end of an era for front-engine cars triumphing in F1 races. While the 312B3 never graced the tracks, it paved the way for triumphant T-series race cars, yet Ferrari refrained from further 4wd F1 ventures.
The Ferrari 408 Integrale prototype showcased advanced engineering with a steel central monocoque, aluminum sections, and composite body panels. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Following his F1 departure, Mauro Forghieri assumed the directorial helm at Ferrari's "advanced research office," steering the company toward innovation. Under his guidance, the Maranello-based automaker unveiled the Ferrari 408 Integrale, a working concept car serving as a dynamic laboratory for groundbreaking technologies.
The Ferrari 408 Integrale prototype'a construction enlisted the Alcan showcasing their innovative use of bonded and stamped aluminum panels with structural adhesives. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
During 1987-1988, Maranello witnessed the birth of two all-wheel-drive 408 prototypes, featuring an 8-cylinder engine and a body designed by the I.DE.A Institute. The prototypes, one in traditional red (70183) and the other in canary yellow (78610), showcased advanced engineering with a steel central monocoque, aluminum sections, and composite body panels.
The Ferrari 408 Integrale prototype designed by the I.DE.A Institute, and crafted by by Carrozzeria Scaglietti directly in Maranello. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The construction enlisted the expertise of Alcan, a Canadian aluminum specialists, showcasing their innovative use of bonded and stamped aluminum panels with structural adhesives. The Ferrari 408 Integrale's chassis, a fusion of stainless steel and aluminum, exemplified strength, stiffness, and lightness—an ideal combination. This groundbreaking approach hinted at the adoption of a similar aluminum chassis in the Ferrari 360, a dozen years later.
The Ferrari 408 Integrale prototypechassis, a fusion of stainless steel and aluminum, exemplified strength, stiffness, and lightness—an ideal combination. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Crafted by Carrozzeria Scaglietti, the Ferrari 408 Integrale aka 408 RM4, might not win beauty contests, ranking high on the "ugly scale." Nevertheless, its advanced features, even by today's standards, include an aluminum frame with bonded sandwich panels, ensuring low drag with a Cd ranging from 0.274 to 0.314.
The Ferrari 408 Integrale boasted air conditioning and interior quality surpassing even the iconic F40. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
At its core, the 408 housed a centrally longitudinally mounted V8, showcasing compactness and lightness while adhering to production quality standards. The car boasted air conditioning and interior quality surpassing even the iconic F40. Engineers from Honda likely drew inspiration from the 408 when designing the Honda NSX, emphasizing the 408's influential role in shaping the supercar template.
The
Ferrari 408 Integrale's interior showcased a lavish blend of red carpet
and black cushioned leather, adorning its seats, dashboard, and door
panels. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The 408's pièce de résistance was its four-wheel-drive system, featuring mechanical limited-slip differentials, a central hydraulic limited-slip system, and manual override for complete lock. Despite its meticulous design, the 408 was deemed too advanced and exotic for its time and Ferrari's ethos.
At
its core, the Ferrari 408 Integrale housed a centrally longitudinally
mounted V8, showcasing compactness and lightness while adhering to
production quality standards. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Ferrari's emphasis on the 408 Integrale's performance over aesthetics underscores its dedication to exploring 4-wheel-drive layout and 4-wheel-steering systems. While specific performance data remains elusive, the absence of a 4WD production model hints at potential challenges in realizing this groundbreaking concept.
The incorporation of four-wheel drive to elevate the performance of sports cars, supercars, or race cars isn't novel, even for Ferrari. Although the 408 prototypes marked Ferrari's closest approach to a production 4wd car, the concept was thoroughly investigated and studied. The legacy of the Ferrari 408 Integrale endures as a testament to the brand's relentless pursuit of innovation, leaving an indelible imprint on the automotive landscape.
Ferrari prioritizing the performance of the 408 Integrale over aesthetics highlights their commitment to advancing 4-wheel-drive and 4-wheel-steering systems. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The 408 concept was meticulously designed and poised for production. However, its perceived avant-garde nature, supported by 12-15 patents, rendered it too exotic for its time and especially for Ferrari. Mauro Forghieri embarked on a subsequent chapter, joining the rejuvenated Bugatti under Romano Artioli, where he refined his ideas and contributed to the four-wheel-drive system of the equally advanced EB110. The latter featured a longitudinal offset V12 with the gearbox stacked on its side, echoing the innovative spirit of the 408.
Despite Ferrari's long-standing exploration of four-wheel drive for enhanced sports car performance, the Ferrari 408 Integrale prototypes represented their closest step to a production 4WD vehicle, undergoing comprehensive study. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Mauro Forghieri's continued innovation journey with Bugatti's EB110 stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of automotive exploration. Although Ferrari's 408 Integrale didn't materialize into a production model, it left an indelible mark on the landscape of automotive innovation. The echoes of its influence reverberate through time, underscoring the brand's commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing the uncharted. | z4vbIcH5mv0 |
In retrospection, the Ferrari 408 Integrale emerges not just as a concept car but as a bold proclamation of Ferrari's audacity to dream beyond convention. While its physical manifestation may have eluded production lines, its essence lives on, inspiring future endeavors and contributing to the ever-evolving narrative of automotive innovation. Only later in 2011, Ferrari had launched its first 4WD model, Ferrari FF, which is most likely the result of further development of the 408. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WHICHCAR.COM.AU | SUPERCARNOSTALGIA | TOPGEAR | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CARSTYLING.RU | FACEBOOK | WIKIPEDIA ]
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While the 1980s ushered in car phones, the futuristic features of SHADO cars remain unrealized. Similarly, the moonbase hasn't materialized till today. The distinctive gull-wing doors of these cars never became mainstream. In the 1970s, Canada produced just shy of 3000 Bricklins with gull-winged doors. Meanwhile, in the early 1980s, Northern Ireland manufactured fewer than 10,000 Deloreans, famously featured in Back to the Future. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GERRYANDERSON | HEMMINGS | DIKNYTVSPACE | THENORTHERNECHO | FORUM-RETRORIDES | SLOTFORUM | BRITMODELLER | EPGUIDES ]
