ONE-OFF - Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about the possibility of bringing your dream car to life? Creating a four-wheeled marvel that perfectly aligns with your vision of automotive perfection is a fantasy many share. The exciting news is, you don't need to be a high-profile automaker to turn this dream into reality. Everyday individuals, fueled by passion and determination, have successfully crafted their own automotive masterpieces, proving that the pursuit of dreams isn't exclusive to corporate giants.
The Invictus GT is a hand built car, developed as a result of one man’s dream, designed by Iker Lopez Totorika, and brought to life by Windsor Coachwork. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
Now, while this might sound like a cliché motivational statement often echoed by influencers, the Invictus GT stands as a living testament to the transformative power of dreams, skills, and unwavering determination. This unique creation is not just another do-it-yourself project; it's the culmination of a decade-long dedication by one man – Henrik, an enigmatic car enthusiast. His canvas? The Lotus Exige (Series 2).
Over the course of ten years, Henrik and his colleagues meticulously transformed the Series 2 Exige into the Invictus GT genuine masterpiece. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
Over the span of ten years, Henrik meticulously transformed the Series 2 Exige into a genuine masterpiece. His goal wasn't solely centered on achieving aesthetic allure; he aimed for an unrivaled driving experience as well. Leveraging the Exige's robust foundation for exceptional performance, Henrik collaborated with his friend and talented car designer, Iker Lopez Totorika, to handle the aesthetic aspects.
The Invictus GT draws inspiration from the glorious automotive era of the 60s and 70s, paying homage to classic sports cars without being a mere imitation. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
The Invictus GT draws inspiration from the glorious automotive era of the 60s and 70s, paying homage to classic sports cars without merely imitating them. The Exige's compact dimensions became the perfect canvas for timeless design elements, creating a charming and unique sports car.
The inspiration from those classic sports cars is evident in the design, spanning from the Stratos-esque rear end to the Alfa teledial-wheels, and the Lola look of the front. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
Turning dreams into reality required more than just passion – it demanded precision and craftsmanship. A 1:1 foam model, crafted with the expertise of FBFX, paved the way for the fibreglass transformation by Windsor Coachworks, a bespoke and low-volume vehicle manufacturer founded in 2018. The result? A resounding success, boasting clean lines, consistent panel gaps, intricate details, flawless paint, and a stance that radiates perfection.
The Invictus GT features the right proportions for its petite body, with exceptional handling included as a standard feature. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
While the interior remains a mystery, the Invictus GT retains the Exige S base underneath, with subtle enhancements like a redesigned intercooler and exhaust. Considering the Exige's stellar reputation on the road, any skepticism about the driving experience quickly dissipates.
The Invictus GT boasts clean lines, consistent panel gaps, intricate details, flawless paint, and a stance that radiates perfection. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
The inspiration from those classic sports cars is evident in the design, from the Stratos-esque rear end to the Alfa teledial-wheels, and the Lola look of the front. However, the GT avoids being a mere pastiche, presenting itself as a great-looking, petite, and perfectly proportioned sports car. Job done.
The Invictus GT retains the Exige S base underneath, featuring subtle enhancements such as a redesigned intercooler and exhaust.(Picture from: TradeClassic)
Presently, the Invictus GT stands as a testament to one man's vision and craftsmanship, a unique creation in a league of its own. Yet, whispers of potential mass production emerge if the demand materializes. Picture the streets adorned with this bespoke creation – a dream materialized for both the creator and prospective owners.
So, if you've ever dared to envision yourself designing your own car, take inspiration from Henrik's journey. Who knows? The world might just be waiting for your automotive masterpiece. Remember, where there's a will, there's a way. The road to automotive dreams may be winding, but it's undoubtedly worth the drive...😎 *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | INVICTUS GT | PISTONHEADS | TRADECLASSIC | CARBUZZ ]
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Unique ONES - The allure of the Corvette, a name synonymous with American muscle, has captivated enthusiasts for decades. Regrettably, the once-exclusive charm of this iconic sports car seems to be waning, with some dismissing it as a mere participant in the fiberglass sports car arena. As we delve into the late 1970s, potential Corvette owners seeking to stand out found themselves resorting to importing Lamborghinis or DeTomasos.
Les Dunham crafted the Corvette Caballista, responding to fans' desire to revive the exclusive charm of this iconic sports car. (Picture from: Autoweek)
Recognizing this growing dilemma, Les Dunham, founder of the Dunham Coach Motor Car Company in Boonton, N.J., took it upon himself to remedy the situation. A customization maestro since 1957, Dunham became widely known after transforming a Chevrolet Corvette chassis by fitting it with a Cadillac Eldorado body. The result? The birth of the Corvorado (Corvette + Eldorado), prominently featured in James Bond's "Live And Let Die," among other films.
Meticulously from 1977 to 1982, Les Dunham converted ordinary Corvettes into the stunning Corvette Caballista—producing 50 units, with only 5 convertibles. (Picture from: Autoweek)
Between 1977 and 1982, Dunham meticulously converted ordinary Corvette into the stunning Corvette Caballista. To ensure exclusivity, only 50 units were produced, with a mere five being convertibles. The Corvette Caballista, crafted in Boonton, NJ, carried a hefty starting price of over $60,000 in 1980, reinforcing its exclusive status.
The Corvette Caballista arrived fully loaded, boasting a leather interior, grey carpet, air conditioning, tilt and telescopic compact steering wheel, and various other premium features. (Picture from: Hemmings)
The term "Caballista" itself, a Spanish word meaning "horse-man" or one knowledgeable about horses, was aptly chosen. Equipped with Chevy's 5.7 Liter L-83 V8 and a 700 R4 automatic transmission, owners of the Caballista became instant connoisseurs of "200 horses" and 285 ft-lbs of torque.
The Corvette Caballista features Chevy's 5.7 Liter L-83 V8 and a 700 R4 automatic transmission, delivering 200 horses and 285 ft-lbs of torque. (Picture from: Hemmings)
The feature-rich Caballista boasted 4-wheel power disc brakes, power steering, power windows and seats, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, AM/FM cassette, a 2-tone leather interior, tinted windows, removable mirror T-Top, custom silver paint with charcoal accents, and distinctive elements like full chrome bumpers, side supercharger pipes (purely for show), a Rolls-style grille, and mag rims.
The Corvette Caballista is adorned with unique features, including full chrome bumpers, side supercharger pipes (for display), a Rolls-style grille, and stylish mag rims.. (Picture from: Autoweek)
Undoubtedly, this car turned heads with its unique design, reflective of a bygone era. The late '70s saw it making appearances in films like "Shaft," gracing the entrances of legendary discos like Studio 54, and becoming the vehicle of choice for the flamboyant pimps of that time, akin to the spiritual ancestors of today's Escalade and Bentley.
In conclusion, Dunham's Corvette Caballista stands as a testament to the creativity that arises from the need for exclusivity. This automotive gem not only revitalized the Corvette's allure but also etched its name in the annals of unique and extravagant customizations in automotive history. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DUNHAM COACH | HEMMINGS | CARTHROTTLE | AUTOWEEK ]
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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 ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
So, if you've ever dared to envision yourself designing your own car, take inspiration from Henrik's journey. Who knows? The world might just be waiting for your automotive masterpiece. Remember, where there's a will, there's a way. The road to automotive dreams may be winding, but it's undoubtedly worth the drive...😎 *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | INVICTUS GT | PISTONHEADS | TRADECLASSIC | CARBUZZ ]
