Forgotten Icon - Car manufacturers have a long-standing tradition of showcasing concept vehicles or show cars before officially launching their new models. This strategy helps them assess public interest and gather valuable feedback, although historically, many of these show cars were discarded after serving their purpose.
The Pontiac Strato Streak is designed as a hybrid between a sports car and a sedan by the talented duo of Harley Earl and Art Ross from General Motors and Pontiac Division. (Picture from: Automotive-Heritage)
One standout example of an innovative concept car is the Pontiac Strato Streak. Designed as a hybrid between a sports car and a sedan, it premiered at the 1954 Motorama auto shows in Chicago alongside the Bonneville Special. Crafted by the talented duo of Harley Earl and Art Ross from General Motors and Pontiac Division, this unique vehicle drew inspiration from Pontiac's Catalina and was constructed on the Star Chief model chassis, featuring a wheelbase of 124 inches and a height of just 54.7 inches.
The unique Pontiac Strato Streak premiered at the 1954 Motorama auto shows in Chicago, it drew inspiration from Pontiac's Catalina and was constructed on the Star Chief model chassis. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
The exterior of the Strato Streak was visually striking, boasting a fiberglass body adorned with futuristic elements such as panoramic windows, decorative turbines, and jet exhausts. In contrast to the popular fins of the era, the Strato Streak sported solid pontoon sides and a sleek sloping tail, giving it a distinctive and aerodynamic look. The doors, opening in unconventional directions and interlocking, echoed the design seen in certain European Lancia models.
The unique Pontiac Strato Streak concept featuring a wheelbase of 124 inches and a height of just 54.7 inches. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
Inside, the Strato Streak offered a luxurious interior with four swivel bucket seats, eliminating the need for a center pillar and facilitating easy entry and exit. The innovative rear doors, opening outward into the wind, featured special locks to prevent accidental opening while the vehicle was in motion. This design not only enhanced safety but also provided seamless access to the cabin, where passengers could enjoy the rotating seats and a spacious environment.
The Pontiac Strato Streak offered a luxurious interior with four swivel bucket seats, eliminating the need for a center pillar and facilitating easy entry and exit. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
The original metallic green paint of the Pontiac Strato Streak underwent a transformation, giving rise to a striking metallic red hue when it was repainted and rebranded as the Strato Streak II. Unfortunately, the car's appearance after its color change remains a
mystery, as no pictures of it exist.
In contrast to the popular fins of the era, the Pontiac Strato Streak sported solid pontoon sides and a sleek sloping tail, giving it a distinctive and aerodynamic look. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
There's speculation it may have
evolved into the Pontiac Strato Star Concept, showcased at the 1955
Motorama in New York as a sleek two-door sports car. This evolution coincided with Pontiac's introduction of their new small-block overhead-valve V-8 engines from 1955 to 1957, further solidifying its place in automotive history.
There's speculation the Pontiac Strato Streak may have evolved into the Pontiac Strato Star Concept, a sleek two-door sports car showcased at the 1955 Motorama in New York. (Picture from: LostShow&ConceptCarsOfGM)
Despite its groundbreaking design and role in showcasing Pontiac's engineering prowess, the ultimate fate of the Strato Streak or Strato Streak II remains a mystery. Like many show cars of its time, it is presumed that the car was eventually scrapped in accordance with the company's policies regarding concept vehicles.
UNIQUE but REAL - This is solely to satisfy our curiosity about a unique classic custom car originating from Brno, a city nestled in the south of the Czech Republic, apart from the previously discussed Netik 600 Raketa, which is equally unique. The mentioned automotive marvel once symbolized luxury and speed before being transformed into firefighting vehicles, some of the fastest of their time.
Under the expertise of Czechoslovakian coachbuilder T. Lepil, the Horch 853 underwent a remarkable transformation into Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil firefighting vehicles. (Picture from: Bangshift)
Well, the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is not your average car; it's a captivating fusion of history, innovation, and resilience. Its distinct exterior may seem like something from a science fiction movie, but this exceptional vehicle has a compelling backstory. Originally, it was a luxurious Horch 853 Sport Cabriolet, abandoned by a German commander during World War II amidst the turmoil of Czechoslovakia's changing political landscape.
The remarkable Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck has a distinct exterior may seem like something from a science fiction movie, and captivating fusion of history, innovation, and resilience. (Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)
Horch, formally known as A. Horch & Co., was a renowned German automotive manufacturer founded in Cologne in 1899. By 1904, the company had relocated its operations to Zwickau, Saxony. Among the Auto Union brands (Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer), Horch specialized in luxury vehicles, and the Horch 853 Sport Cabrioletwas the final model introduced before passenger car production ceased in March 1940.
The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck was built based on an abandoned Horch 853 Sport Cabriolet, as seen in the picture.(Picture from: Autoweek)
Despite its history, the Brno firefighters noted that this particular model was from 1941, suggesting it was among the last units produced. The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil emerged during a time when a 100 hp engine was a remarkable achievement. However, the aftermath of the war cast doubt on anything linked to Germany, including this elegant convertible.
The narrative took an intriguing turn in November 1945 when the Brno-Komín fire brigade made the decision to repurpose this modified Horch 853 convertible for firefighting tasks. The scarcity of specialized vehicles in the post-war era prompted organizations to adapt existing cars for essential roles. Thus, the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil evolved from a symbol of luxury to a testament of human ingenuity, seamlessly combining elegance with functionality. Who was behind this remarkable transformation?
The remarkable Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is pictured alongside its sibling fire truck from the Brno-Komín fire brigade. (Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)
Well, under the expertise of Czechoslovakian coachbuilder T. Lepil, known for their innovative designs, the Horch 853 underwent a remarkable transformation. Guided by Tomáš Lepil's sons, Bedřich and Josef, the Lepil team embarked on a journey of creativity and reinvention. They meticulously redesigned the convertible, incorporating features such as a separate rear entry and expanded space to accommodate firefighting equipment efficiently.
In the cabin of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck, you'll find a straightforward dashboard featuring a four-spoke steering wheel, a standard instrument panel, gauges, and knobs.(Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)
Interestingly, the transparent cabin bears a resemblance to a section of the Junkers Ju-388 bomber's cockpit. Was this part taken from there? So far, there's no information about that yet; time will reveal the truth. What distinguishes the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is its ability to accommodate six crew members under its transparent roof, alongside a fire hose, making it an exceptionally efficient firefighting apparatus.
The transparent cabin of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil bears a resemblance to a section of the Junkers Ju-388 bomber's cockpit, leading to speculations that it may have come from the German plane. (Picture from: Pinterest)
Today, the legacy of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil endures as one of the most remarkable fire vehicles ever created. It exemplifies the intersection of automotive history and human innovation, illustrating how a neglected plush convertible found a new purpose and became an iconic figure in firefighting. This narrative underscores the resilience of human creativity, exemplified by the visionary work of the Lepil family and their team.
The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil was once a symbol of luxury and speed, standing out as one of the fastest firefighting vehicles of its time, featuring a powerful eight-cylinder engine.(Picture from: Bangshift)
In conclusion, the journey of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil reminds us of the limitless potential of innovation. Even in adversity, humans can elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary, showcasing enduring ingenuity and adaptability. It's a story that continues to inspire, emphasizing the timeless spirit of innovation and resilience. Moreover, if you're interested in exploring another stunning Horch car creation,click here!*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR.ES | BUBBLEMANIA.FR | WEIRDWHEELS | CHOICEGEARS.ORG | BANGSHFT | AUTOWEEK ]
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Unique ONES - In the fast-paced world of automotive business, challenges are inevitable, even for iconic models like the Studebaker Avanti. Launched by the Studebaker Corporationbetween June 1962 and December 1963, the Avanti aimed to redefine luxury coupes with its unique blend of performance and style. Marketed as "America's only high-performance coupe with a capacity of four passengers," it promised a thrilling driving experience coupled with safety features.
The Studebaker Avanti launched by the Studebaker Corporation between June 1962 and December 1963. (Picture from: TimesColonist)
Just to let you know, when the Studebaker Avanti was announced in 1962, Studebaker's history already traced back 110 years to 1852. It all started when Clem and Henry Studebaker opened a blacksmith and wagon shop in South Bend, Indiana. Considered a pivotal milestone in the post-war automotive industry, the Avanti featured a streamlined fiberglass body mounted on a modified Studebaker Lark Daytona Convertible chassis.
The Studebaker Avanti conceptualized by Studebaker president Sherwood Egbert during a flight, captured attention with its avant-garde aesthetic. (Picture from: TheAvanti)
Its design, conceptualized by Studebaker president Sherwood Egbert during a flight, captured attention with its avant-garde aesthetic. Crafted by a team (consisted primarily of Bob Andrews, John Ebstein, and Tom Kellogg) led by Raymond Loewy, the Avanti dazzled the public when unveiled on April 26, 1962, at the New York International Automobile Show. The debut coincided with the Annual Shareholders' Meeting, generating excitement and anticipation among enthusiasts.
The Studebaker Avanti was crafted by a team led by Raymond Loewy and aimed to redefine luxury coupes with its unique blend of performance and style. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
To further elevate its profile, the Avanti found itself in the hands of racing champion Rodger Ward, winner of the 1962 Indianapolis 500. His ownership added prestige, cementing the Avanti's status as a symbol of speed and sophistication.
The Studebaker Avanti housed a formidable 289 cubic inch OHV V8 engine, capable of unleashing 240 horsepower. (Picture from: TheAvanti)
Underneath its stylish exterior, the Avanti housed a formidable 289 cubic inch OHV V8 engine, capable of unleashing 240 horsepower. With an impressive 0-60 mph acceleration in under 8 seconds and a top speed of 139 mph, it offered exhilarating performance unmatched by its competitors.
The Studebaker Avanti's interior includes bucket seats, a padded dashboard, a central console, and overhead light switches.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
Furthermore, Studebaker took the Avanti to the Bonneville Salt Flats where it set 29 production car records in 1963, eventually achieving a top speed of nearly 170 mph in the flying mile with Andy Granatelli, chief driver and chief engineer at Studebacker Racing behind the wheel.
Despite its initial acclaim, the Avanti encountered setbacks in production, including issues with suppliers and delays in manufacturing. These challenges hampered the company's ability to meet demand, resulting in numerous order cancellations from dealers and customers alike.
The Studebaker Avanti featured a streamlined fiberglass body mounted on a modified Studebaker Lark Daytona Convertible chassis. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Sadly, the Avanti's production came to an abrupt halt at the end of 1963, just a year and a half after its launch. With only around 5,800 units manufactured, its journey was cut short, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and ambition in the automotive industry.
In retrospect, the Studebaker Avanti remains a testament to the pursuit of excellence, its brief yet impactful presence leaving an indelible mark on automotive history. Despite its challenges, it continues to be celebrated for its daring design and spirited performance, reminding us of the enduring allure of timeless classics. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THEAVANTI | MOTORTREND | TIMESCOLONIST | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Rare ONES - The Volkswagen Beetle, an iconic creation by a German manufacturer, has become a canvas for creative automotive enthusiasts. These individuals transform the Beetle into automotive masterpieces, turning them into elegant and stunning creations far removed from their original form.
The 1951 Rometsch Beeskow Coupe posed along with its successor 1957 Rometsch Lawrence Cabrio. (Pictures from: VWVortex, Edited by Eka)
One outstanding example of this creative transformation is the Rometsch Beeskow Coupe, a beautiful classic car from the 1950s, was soon named Banane. At first glance, its exterior design exudes beauty and elegance, making it hard to believe that this car originated from the humble Volkswagen Beetle. But who is the mastermind behind this sophisticated creation?
The Rometsch Beeskow exquisite car (pictured in Coupe model) was designed by Johannes Beeskow, and crafted by Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch during 1951 to 1957. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
According to various internet sources, the Rometsch Beeskow Coupe was crafted by Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch, a Berlin-based coachbuilder established in 1924. Their venture into Volkswagen-based projects began in 1950 with a four-door taxi featuring an elongated wheelbase.
The first Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch's venture into Volkswagen-based projects began in 1950 with a four-door taxi featuring an elongated wheelbase.. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
The exquisite car, designed by Johannes Beeskow, made its debut at the 1951 Geneva Motor Show. Referred to as the 'Volkswagen for high society,' it earned this title rightfully. The initial buyers included the King of Sweden and renowned celebrities like Victor de Kowa, Gregory Peck, and Audrey Hepburn.
The
Rometsch Beeskow exquisite car (pictured in Coupe model) featured a
steel frame with wood pillars and were clad in a lightweight aluminum
body. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
Fascinatingly, the aluminum-bodied sports car was never officially endorsed by Wolfsburg. Volkswagen declined to provide the coachbuilders with the essential rolling chassis and parts, prompting them to either acquire complete Volkswagens through their 50 employees or purchase used cars.
The cabin of the Rometsch Beeskow, featuring a similar layout to the VW Beetle, is adorned with additional luxury touches.(Pictures from: VWVortex)
The Rometsch Beeskow was available as a coupe and convertible, as many as 175 examples ever built (with 51 convertibles), the majority being convertibles. These hand-built vehicles featured a steel frame with wood pillars and were clad in a lightweight aluminum body. They aimed to provide an affordable sports car alternative to the more expensive cars of the time, utilizing the Volkswagen Beetle chassis to keep prices reasonable.
The
aluminum-bodied sports car Rometsch Beeskow made its debut at the 1951
Geneva Motor Show, and referred to as the 'Volkswagen for high society'. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
After Johannes Beeskow's move to Karmann in 1956, Rometsch continued crafting bespoke cars with the assistance of furniture designer Bert Lawrence. The successor model, Rometsch Lawrence, saw the production of 120 unitsfrom 1957 to 1961 (in Coupe and Cabrio models). This period marked a transition in design, with a more American-style exterior and sumptuous interiors, including a cushioned dash.
The successor model, the Rometsch Lawrence (pictured in Cabrio model), showcases a transition in design with a more American-style exterior and sumptuous interiors, complete with a cushioned dashboard. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
Despite facing challenges, Rometsch persisted until 1961 when the Berlin Wall's construction effectively separated the company from half of its 90 employees. Despite modest sales at the time, the Rometsch Beeskow left an indelible mark in automotive history.
The Rometsch Lawrence (pictured in Cabrio model) bespoke cars were crafted with the assistance of furniture designer Bert Lawrence from 1957 to 1961. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
The car claimed several notable achievements, including being the first to feature its full manufacturer and model name on its back, pioneering interior safety with a padded dash, influencing the design of the Mercedes 300 SL, and inspiring the Audi TT’s designer with its timeless design.
The unmistakable reliability and refinement showcased in Rometsch's bespoke car models were truly undeniable, asserting their dominance and earning acclaim in the Volkswagen Custom Coachwork class at the 2019 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. This achievement further solidified their indelible place in automotive history. Rometsch's cars serve as a compelling testament to the enduring allure of creative automotive transformations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VWVORTEX | CONCEPTCARZ | WESTERNDRIVER | THEAUTOCHANNEL | MOTORSPORT-TOTAL | THEMOVEMENT | KOLAHA-COLLECTION ]
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Unique ONES - The Corvette, in its second generation (C2), became an enduring symbol of American automotive excellence, capturing attention with its striking styling and revolutionary design. This iconic vehicle, born in 1953, reached new heights under the visionary leadership of Bill Mitchell, the head of GM Design, and Larry Shinoda, the creative mind behind concept cars like the XP-720 4-Seater and XP-755 Mako Shark.
The 1963-'67 Corvette Sting Ray Coupe is still stunning from every angle and is today, truly an iconic automotive design. (Picture from: Motortrend)
Mitchell's inspiration for the Corvette's aesthetics came from the Shortfin Mako Shark, proudly displayed in miniature within his office. The result was the C2 Corvette, affectionately named the Sting Ray, a testament to its sleek and aggressive appearance.
The C2 Corvette Sting Ray remains a timeless symbol of American automotive ingenuity, blending style, power, and performance in a package that continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts worldwide. (Picture from: Motortrend)
However, this bold departure from convention left Chevrolet's competition department scrambling to reconcile the striking design with the demands of racing. Zora Arkus-Duntov, considered the savior of Corvette performance, faced the challenge of adapting the road-centric Sting Ray for the track.
Larry Shinoda, the creative mind behind concept cars like the XP-720 4-Seater and XP-755 Mako Shark. (Picture from: Motortrend)
The Corvette Z06 emerged as Duntov's solution, featuring competition upgrades that allowed race teams to unleash the Sting Ray's potential on the track. Initially successful, the Sting Ray faced fierce competition from the purpose-built Shelby Cobra, which dominated the racing scene.
The 1959 Corvette Sting Ray XP-87 concept sat on display at the Petersen Museum. (Picture from: Motortrend)
As a road car, Mitchell's design achieved overwhelming success, introducing the Corvette coupe for the first time. The split rear window, though attention-grabbing, proved impractical, impeding rearward vision and necessitating removal in 1964. Both coupes and convertibles shared a fiberglass body atop a steel ladder frame chassis, showcasing Duntov's innovative rear suspension and maintaining the front suspension from the C1 generation.
The XP-720 Corvette prototype, manifested in a clay model, later served as the inspiration for the birth of the C2 Corvette Sting Ray.(Picture from: Motortrend)
Options abounded for Sting Ray enthusiasts, from engine choices to performance packages like L88, Z06, or COPO427, each gaining renown for rarity and exceptional performance. Leather interiors, Kelsey-Hayes cast aluminum wheels, air conditioning, and power brakes were among the many customizable features that set the Sting Ray apart.
The inside of the C2 Corvette Sting Ray adorned with genuine leather interiors, draws inspiration from the aviation world, providing a sensation of flight for both driver and passengers. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Under the hood, the '63 Sting Ray boasted a V8 engine, evolving over the years to include the powerful 327 in various states of tune. The introduction of the big block 396 Turbo Jet in 1965 signaled a shift towards even greater power, culminating in the 427 that produced an impressive 600 bhp in 1967 with the L88 option.
The C2 Corvette Sting Ray, known for its distinctive split rear window, continued to captivate enthusiasts until 1967.(Picture from: Motortrend)
Priced at $4,037 for the convertible and $4,257 for the coupe, the Sting Ray found immediate success, with sales soaring and the St. Louis factory struggling to keep up with demand. Production for 1963 alone surged by 50 percent, reaching almost 22,000 units. The Sting Ray continued to captivate enthusiasts until 1967 when the third-generation Corvette (C3) made its debut, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history.
In retrospect, the C2 Corvette Sting Ray remains a timeless symbol of American automotive ingenuity, blending style, power, and performance in a package that continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts worldwide. The legacy of the Sting Ray lives on, an enduring testament to the brilliance of Bill Mitchell's design and the spirit of innovation that defines the Corvette lineage. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | MOTORTREND | AMERICAN MUSCLE CAR MUSEUM | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Unique ONES - In the dynamic world of classic British sports cars, one gem shines with unparalleled power, a compact wheelbase, and a distinctive fiberglass body. Forget about the Sunbeam Tiger or the AC Ace; let's talk about the
1965 Griffith Series 200. This exceptional vehicle, born from the imagination of Jack Griffith, a Ford dealer from Long Island, New York,
seamlessly blends British craftsmanship with American muscle.
The Griffith Series 200 exceptional vehicle, born from the imagination of Jack Griffith, a Ford dealer from Long Island, New York, seamlessly blends British craftsmanship with American muscle.. (Picture from: ClassicMotorSports)
Jack Griffith, deeply immersed in SCCA racing, conceived the idea of a hybrid hot rod in 1963. He envisioned taking a British sports car, the TVR Grantura Mk. III, and giving it the heart of an American Ford V8 engine reminiscent of the legendary Shelby Cobra. In England, the transformation from a modest MG engine to a powerhouse Ford 289 birthed the TVR Griffith 200.
The Griffith Series 200's tiny fiberglass bodywork built on a modified TVR Grantura Mk. III chassis. (Picture from: Hemmings)
Debuting at the 1964 Boston Motor Show, the Griffith Series 200 aimed to outshine the Shelby Cobra in the U.S. market. Jack Griffith, the mastermind assembling the cars from exported kits, established a network of dealers to distribute this lightweight sports car.
The Griffith Series 200's compact cabin features two racing bucket seats, a three-spoke wooden steering wheel, and a streamlined dashboard hosting instrument panels and gauges. (Picture from: ClassicMotorSports)
Limited to only 192 examples, the Griffith Series 200 rolled off the assembly line in Syosset, New York, on a modified TVR Grantura chassis, boasting a Ford V8 engine and a 4-speed manual transmission.
The Griffith Series 200 powered by a Ford V8 engine and a 4-speed manual transmission. (Picture from: ClassicMotorSports)
Despite its impressive specifications, the Griffith 200 wasn't without its challenges. Its short wheelbase, lightweight fiberglass body, and potent engine demanded skill and respect from drivers. Challenges included overheating engines, undercharging electrical systems, failing rear axles, and leaking gas tanks. It was a thrilling but demanding ride for those lucky enough to experience it.
Production of the Griffith Series 200 concluded in 1965 with only 192 unit ever made, marking the end of an era for this iconic British-American hybrid. (Picture from: Hemmings)
Production of the Griffith Series 200 concluded in 1965, making way for the TVR Griffith 400. Interestingly, all Griffith production shifted to the UK, exported to the US, and continued its legacy through the Griffith 600 under different ownership. Eventually, production came to a halt, marking the end of an era for this iconic British-American hybrid.
The Griffith Series 200 stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of its creator, Jack Griffith, and the fusion of British elegance with American muscle. (Picture from: ClassicMotorSports)
Looking back, the Griffith Series 200 stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of its creator, Jack Griffith, and the fusion of British elegance with American muscle. As an enduring symbol of the golden age of sports cars, the Griffith Series 200 occupies a special place in automotive history, leaving an indelible mark on enthusiasts who appreciate the marriage of power, style, and exhilarating performance.
In the realm of classic British sports cars, the 1965 Griffith Series 200 is not just a vehicle; it's a timeless tale of ambition, craftsmanship, and the thrilling marriage of British and American automotive excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HEMMINGS | CLASSICMOTORSPORTS | CLASSIC ]
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The legacy of the Pontiac Strato Streak endures as a testament to the innovative spirit of automotive design during that era. Its blend of style, performance, and forward-thinking features continues to captivate car enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, underscoring the lasting impact of concept cars in shaping the trajectory of automobile technology. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | STORY-CARS | GOMOTORS | WIKIPEDIA | AUTOMOTIVE-HERITAGE | ALLCARINDEX | REDDIT CONCEPTCARS | LOST SHOW & CONCEPT CARS OF GM | WIKICARS | OLDCONCEPTCARS | AMERICANTORQUE | PINTEREST ]
