Rare ONES - The history of the Ford Mustang is filled with many intriguing chapters, and one of the most unexpected involves a partnership that few would have predicted: Ford and McLaren. While McLaren is typically associated with British supercars, such as the iconic McLaren F1, it also had a brief yet significant collaboration with Ford in the 1980s. This partnership resulted in a highly unique version of the Mustang, demonstrating just how versatile and surprising the automotive world can be.
The Ford M81 McLaren Mustang was the result of a collaboration between Ford’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) and McLaren, creating a truly unique Mustang. (Picture from: AmCarGuide)
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Ford was eager to revitalize the Mustang after the disappointing Mustang II. New emissions regulations were challenging the performance of many cars, and Ford needed a new way to capture attention. The solution? A collaboration with McLaren that would lead to the creation of a very special Mustang.
The Ford M81 McLaren Mustang was clearly a Fox Body however it benefitted from a serious styling revamp both inside and out, and it had a much more powerful engine under the hood. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
This wasn’t just any Mustang, though—it was designed to show off McLaren’s hand-built engine expertise alongside Ford’s robust aftermarket and motorsport parts catalog. The result was the Ford M81 McLaren Mustang, a car that would combine elements of both brands into a rare and captivating package.
The Ford M81 McLaren Mustang's exterior was striking, sporting a boxy, angular shape that reflected the design trends of the Malaise era. (Picture from: Silodrome)
McLaren, primarily known for building high-performance cars and racing machines, may seem like an odd choice to work with Ford on a Mustang. But their expertise in engineering and performance was what Ford needed to create something unique. The partnership wasn’t McLaren’s first foray into collaborations, as they had also worked with Mercedes-Benz to produce the legendary SLR series. Yet long before that, McLaren’s focus shifted to Ford, leading to the creation of the M81McLaren Mustang. The car’s aim was simple: to boost interest in a Mustang that wasn’t powered by the typical V8 engine but instead by a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
The most noticeable styling change is the addition of wide IMSA-style fenders that gave the car a purposeful look and allowed the fitment of wider wheels and rubber. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Released in 1980, this special edition M81McLaren Mustang was built to highlight not only performance but also bold design. The exterior was striking, sporting a boxy, angular shape that reflected the design trends of the Malaise era. Its Bittersweet Orange color was particularly eye-catching, with seven out of the ten units produced being painted in this vibrant shade. But it wasn’t just about the looks—the car’s bodywork had been significantly upgraded to give it a more aggressive stance, marking it as something far different from the standard Mustangs of the time.
The interior of the Ford M81 McLaren Mustang was also upgraded, with Recaro seats, a Racemark steering wheel, a bolt-in roll bar, and Stewart-Warner instrument gauges. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Inside, the Ford M81McLaren Mustang featured a variety of enhancements to match its unique exterior. Recaro seats were a key addition, providing drivers with both comfort and support. A Racemark steering wheel, Stewart-Warner gauges, and a bolt-in roll bar were all part of the package, emphasizing the car’s sporty nature. These interior upgrades gave the M81 a distinct personality, one that stood out from other cars of its era.
This is the 2.3 liter turbocharged inline-four, originally produced 131 bhp however after McLaren were done with it it was making 175 bhp, and was capable of more still. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Under the hood, the M81McLaren Mustang wasn’t equipped with a large V8 engine, as many might expect from a performance-focused Mustang. Instead, it housed a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 175 horsepower—a respectable figure for the time. This engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission, sending power to the rear wheels. Although the horsepower may not seem impressive by today’s standards, it was a bold move in an era of increasingly restrictive emissions regulations.
The Ford M81 McLaren Mustang's handling was enhanced with Koni suspension, upgraded brakes, and Firestone HPR tires. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Despite its unique design and engineering, the M81McLaren Mustang struggled to find buyers. Ford had originally planned to build 249 units, but the high price tag—combined with the car’s relatively modest performance figures—meant that only ten were ever produced. This limited production run has made the M81 a highly sought-after collector's item today, with its rarity adding to its allure.
The Ford M81 McLaren Mustang's bodywork had been significantly upgraded to give it a more aggressive stance, marking it as something far different from the standard Mustangs of the time. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Though the car's 0-60 mph time of 9.76 seconds may seem slow compared to modern McLaren supercars, it was still an exciting performance for the era. The car’s handling was enhanced with Koni suspension, upgraded brakes, and Firestone HPR tires. These modifications ensured that the M81McLaren Mustang wasn’t just about straight-line speed but could also offer a balanced driving experience.| SIsYdlMA1HU |
While the original M81McLaren Mustang may not have been a massive commercial success, its legacy lives on as a fascinating chapter in the Mustang’s history. It was a bold attempt to create something different, blending Ford's American muscle with McLaren's precision engineering. In the end, it may have been too expensive for its time, but it remains a symbol of innovation and daring in the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOTCARS | SILODROME | MOTORTREND | AMCARGUIDE | LMR ]
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📢America's Rare Muscle King - In the late 1950s and early 1960s, automotive design underwent a transformative period with the advent of fiberglass body construction. Once a technology reserved for major manufacturers, it became accessible to enthusiasts and small companies, ushering in an era of creativity and customization in garage workshops.
The 1965 Kellison J6 Panther was a rare and remarkable sports car from the early 1960s, available as either a kit or fully assembled. (Picture from: f1jherbert in Flickr)
One of the lesser-known gems of this era is the Kellison J6, a rare and remarkable sports car from the early 1960s. Founded in 1957, the Kellison Cars initially gained traction with their kits for popular car models before introducing the groundbreaking J6. This model, available either as a kit or fully assembled, solidified Kellison's reputation as a boutique manufacturer catering to automotive enthusiasts.
The Kellison Cars initially gained traction with their kits for popular car models before introducing the groundbreaking J6. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Jim Kellison, the driving force behind the J6, drew inspiration from his passion for airplanes and fast cars. Utilizing his expertise in aerodynamics, he crafted a vehicle that not only looked striking but also delivered outstanding performance on the road and track.
The 1965 Kellison J6's appeal was its fiberglass body, combining lightweight construction with strength to achieve a sleek and aerodynamic design. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
At the heart of the J6's appeal was its fiberglass body, combining lightweight construction with strength to achieve a sleek and aerodynamic design. Positioned on a Corvette frame, the J6underwent significant modifications including engine placement, suspension enhancements, and upgraded brakes and interior.
The 1965 Kellison J6's interior includes a three-spoke racing steering wheel and a straightforward, racing-style dashboard. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Initially, Jim Kellison encountered challenges with the J6's handling, prompting him to collaborate with Chuck Manning to develop the innovative 'Steel X Shape' frame. This innovation resolved the car's performance issues, allowing the J6 to excel on race tracks across the United States.
The 1965 Kellison J6 Panther powered by a robust V8 engines sourced from Chevrolet or Ford, propelling it to speeds exceeding 150 miles per hour. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Those refinements not only improved handling but also enhanced speed, leveraging the car's reduced weight compared to its Corvette counterpart. Under its hood, the J6 typically housed robust V8 engines sourced from Chevrolet or Ford, propelling it to speeds exceeding 150 miles per hour—a feat that outpaced many contemporary cars.
Beyond its prowess on the track, the J6 captivated enthusiasts for its rarity. With only around 100 units produced, each J6 was akin to a bespoke masterpiece, coveted by collectors for its unique blend of performance and exclusivity. The legacy of the Kellison J6 endures as a testament to American innovation and automotive craftsmanship.
It serves as a reminder of how one individual's vision and expertise can redefine automotive design and leave an indelible mark on history. While not as widely recognized as some of its counterparts, the J6 remains a cherished icon among automotive aficionados, embodying the spirit of ingenuity that continues to inspire enthusiasts and collectors alike today. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KELLISON CARS | PISTONUDOS | MOTORTREND | ROADANDTRACK | UNDISCOVEREDCLASSIC | BRINGATRAILER ]
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Unique ONES - In the world of concept cars, some creations are easily forgotten, but they leave a lasting impression on true car enthusiasts. One such vehicle is the Volvo T6 Roadster, a Swedish concept car that remains a hidden gem. Much like the retro-styled Chrysler Prowler, the T6 Roadster captured attention with its distinctive design and innovative engineering.
The
Volvo T6 Roadster, designed and built by a former Volvo employee, Leif Tufvesson, is based on a
tubular frame with a body crafted from 0.6-inch aluminum panels.(Picture from: Motor1)
However, unlike many concept cars backed by major automakers, this one was born not in a corporate studio but in the garage of a former Volvo employee, Leif Tufvesson. His vision was to create a Swedish hot rod, and he brought that vision to life through sheer determination and skill. The journey of the T6 Roadster began in 1998, long before its debut at the 2005 SEMA Show. Tufvesson, who had a brief stint at Volvo, started piecing together parts from various Volvo models.
The Swedish-made Volvo T6 Roadster shares an almost similar hot rod-style shape with the American Chrysler Prowler. (Picture from: Motor1 and CarThrottle, Redrawn by Eka)
Without much corporate backing, he relied on his ingenuity and craftsmanship to build the car. Using a tubular frame, he shaped the car around a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter inline-six engine sourced from a Volvo S80. This engine was enhanced to produce around 300 horsepower, and its placement behind the rear seats added a unique character to the roadster. The powertrain was paired with a five-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, delivering the performance Tufvesson envisioned for his hot rod.
The Volvo T6 Roadster features a grille that takes cues from classic Volvos, giving the car a strong connection to its heritage while still standing out as a custom creation.(Picture from: Motor1)
What set the T6 Roadster apart was its distinctive design. Tufvesson crafted the body himself using 0.6-inch aluminum panels, drawing inspiration from various Volvo models. The rear hood, influenced by the Volvo P1800 and PV444, was not only stylish but functional, with the ability to open and cool the engine at high temperatures. The rear lights and grille took cues from classic Volvos, giving the car a strong connection to its heritage while still standing out as a custom creation.
The Volvo T6 Roadster features carbon-fiber headlight buckets with vacuum-shaped acrylic lenses, with Nissan projector headlights. (Picture from: Motor1)
Inside, Tufvesson used even more Volvo components to complete the cabin. He borrowed parts like the seats, shifter handle, and pedal assembly from the S80 sedan, along with the centrally positioned instruments on the dash. A custom steering wheel, sourced from the S60, added a personal touch to the interior. Though the design wouldn't meet modern safety standards, it perfectly captured the spirit of the car—a blend of classic Volvo elements with modern hot rod flair.
The Volvo T6 Roadster rode on staggered wheels, 20 inches in the front and 22 inches in the rear, with a braking system borrowed from the Volvo S80. (Picture from: Motor1)
The engineering behind the T6 Roadster was equally impressive. Tufvesson fabricated the A-arms for the independent front and rear suspension, incorporating custom carbon-fiber leaf springs to ensure a smooth ride. The car rode on staggered wheels, 20 inches in the front and 22 inches in the rear, with a braking system borrowed from the Volvo S80. Six-piston front calipers and 13-inch discs provided plenty of stopping power, while Ohlins shock absorbers ensured stability.
For the Volvo T6 Roadster's cabin, Tufvesson borrowed parts like the seats, shifter handle, and pedal assembly from the S80 sedan, along with centrally positioned instruments on the dash, while a custom steering wheel from the S60 added a personal touch to the interior. (Picture from: Motor1)
Tufvesson's career took an interesting turn when he joined Koenigsegg, a Swedish supercar manufacturer. Starting as a mechanic, he eventually became head of the company's development department, all while working on the T6 in his spare time. His dedication paid off when Volvo took notice of his project. After seeing photos of the T6, Volvo was so impressed by the level of detail and craftsmanship that they decided to showcase the car at their official stand at the 2005 SEMA Show. Anne Belec, the President and CEO of Volvo Cars North America at the time, praised Tufvesson's work, recognizing the uniqueness of his creation.
The Volvo T6 Roadster, powered by a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter inline-six engine sourced from a Volvo S80, was paired with a five-speed Geartronic automatic transmission.(Picture from: Motor1)
But the story doesn’t end there. After the success of the T6 Roadster, Leif Tufvesson went on to establish his own design studio, Caresto. This studio allowed him to continue pursuing his passion for custom vehicle design. Caresto became known for producing handcrafted, high-quality vehicles that blended modern technology with timeless design. Tufvesson’s experience at both Volvo and Koenigsegg gave him the expertise to push boundaries and create something truly remarkable.
The
Volvo T6 Roadster features rear lights that takes cues from classic
Volvos, giving the car a strong connection to its heritage while still
standing out as a custom creation. (Picture from: Motor1)
The T6 Roadster's impact was undeniable. It won Hot Rod Magazine’s "Hot Rod of the Year" award in 2004, before being displayed at the SEMA Show next to other Volvo models. While it never went into production, it remains a testament to Tufvesson’s creativity and craftsmanship. His work through Caresto continues to inspire, proving that even the smallest projects can have a lasting influence on the automotive world. | kx6ACKfJdfc |
The legacy of the Volvo T6 Roadster, and the genius behind it, serves as a reminder that innovation often comes from unexpected places—like a garage, where one man's dream of a Swedish hot rod turned into reality. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR1 | MOTORTREND | ]
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Iconic Origins - When thinking of sports cars, it's easy to picture sleek, futuristic designs with impressive power under the hood. However, innovation in the automotive world didn't just happen overnight. In fact, Toyota, a brand now recognized globally for its advancements, was already paving the way for modern sports cars as far back as the 1950s. One particular gem that rarely gets the spotlight is the Toyota Protofrom 1957, a prototype that symbolized a turning point in Toyota's approach to car design.
The 1957 Toyota Proto Concept car inspired by the wave of American Dream Cars, it shared the bold vision of the future that was common in concept cars from the time, powered by a 697 cc drivetrain. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
At a glance, the 1957 Toyota Proto might seem like a typical product of its era, but a closer look reveals its unique appeal. Inspired by the wave of American Dream Cars, it shared the bold vision of the future that was common in concept cars from the time. However, unlike its American counterparts, this Japanese creation had a smaller, more compact design. Its body was made from fiberglass, a material that was quite revolutionary at the time, signaling Toyota's interest in experimenting with both form and function.
The exterior design of the Toyota Proto captured the essence of 1950s styling with its fluid, rounded lines and circular headlights. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
One of the most striking features of the Toyota Proto was its canopy design. Rather than having a conventional door system, the Proto’s roof opened in a fascinating way, moving towards the rear like a cover being lifted. This "double-bubble" roof was not only an aesthetic choice but also a functional innovation, providing a futuristic flair that would later influence the design of the Toyota Publica Sports.
Rather than having a conventional door system, the Toyota Proto’s roof opened in a fascinating way, moving towards the rear like a cover being lifted. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The exterior design of the Toyota Proto captured the essence of 1950s styling with its fluid, rounded lines and circular headlights. These design elements, combined with the dual-tone paintwork—featuring a white body with red accents on the wheels, grille, and roof—gave the car a futuristic, yet classic feel. It was a car that looked ahead to the future while still grounding itself in the design trends of its time.
A clay model of the 1957 Toyota Proto concept car clearly showcases its futuristic curves, highlighted by a distinctive fin design at the rear. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Inside, the Proto’s compact two-seater cabin was simple yet stylish, designed to complement the car's sleek outer appearance. Although not much is known about the interior's finer details, it’s clear that the design was minimalistic, a trend that would continue in Toyota’s future models. Comfort was not sacrificed, though the Proto’s focus remained firmly on showcasing innovative design and engineering.
The Toyota Proto concept car features dual-tone paintwork, showcasing a white body with red accents on the wheels, grille, and roof, giving it a futuristic yet classic feel. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Powering the Toyota Proto was a 697 cc engine, which, by modern standards, might seem small. However, for the 1950s, this engine provided enough power to showcase the car’s potential without compromising on its lightweight design. Though not built for speed or performance like the supercars of later decades, the Proto’s engine was a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess at the time, proving that they could create efficient and forward-thinking vehicles.
The double-curved bubbletop of the Toyota Proto concept car evokes a design reminiscent of the signature style seen in Italian coachbuilder Zagato. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Unfortunately, the Toyota Proto was never mass-produced, and the world never saw this unique vehicle on the roads. Yet, despite its brief appearance as a concept, it left a lasting impact on Toyota's design philosophy. The ideas and features seen in the Proto would go on to influence future models, such as the legendary Toyota 2000GT, the Celica and the Supra, all of which embraced the blend of innovation and style that the Proto first introduced. Since there isn’t a video specifically about this car, here’s a video featuring a collection of classic models made by Toyota.
The 1957 Toyota Proto may be a forgotten chapter in automotive history, but it was a significant one. This car symbolized Toyota's ambition to push the boundaries of design and technology long before it became a dominant force in the automotive world. Today, as we look back at concept cars like the Proto, it’s clear that Toyota's journey to innovation started long before it reached the pinnacle of success. The Proto remains a fascinating glimpse into what could have been, a reflection of an era that dreamt big and laid the foundation for future automotive milestones. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | QUIRKYRIDES | CARSTYLING.RU | HABJAPANLTD | TECHEBLOG | STORY-CARS | NOTICIAS.COCHES | WEIRDWHEEL | PINTEREST ]
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Unique ONES - In the world of automobiles, there are hidden gems that often go unnoticed, and some of these gems are the brainchildren of unlikely creators. Take, for instance, the Enterra Vipre, a car developed in the mid-1980s not by seasoned automotive engineers but by a group of waiters at the Keg Restaurant on Vancouver’s Granville Island. Yes, you read that right – waiters turned car designers.
The Enterra Vipre was a sports car developed in the mid-1980s not by seasoned automotive engineers but by a group of waiters at the Keg Restaurant on Vancouver’s Granville Island, Canada. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Maestro WORKS - Luigi 'Lutz' Colani, a legendary figure in automotive design, brought his visionary touch to numerous projects, but one that stands out for its mystery and intrigue is his concept for the Dodge Stealth. This unique design, often referred to as the Luigi Colani Blue Car, reimagined the controversial Dodge Stealth, a car that found itself at the center of national debates about American identity in the early 1990s. Colani’s interpretation breathed new life into the Stealth, taking it beyond the limits of its original concept and influencing future designs in the process.
The Dodge Stealth Concept by Luigi Colani, also known as the Colani Blue Car, was displayed at the Colani Design Museum. (Picture from: CultObjects in Flickr)
The Dodge Stealth itself was part of a collaboration between Chrysler and Mitsubishi, built on the Japanese Z16A platform shared with the Mitsubishi GTO/3000GT. While it carried Dodge branding, the car’s Japanese origins became a point of contention. In 1991, the Stealth was selected as the pace car for the 75th Indianapolis 500, but this decision faced harsh criticism from union leaders and patriotic fans who felt the car didn’t represent true American craftsmanship. The tension surrounding the Stealth was heightened by the Gulf War, leading Chrysler executives to reconsider their choice. In February 1991, just months before the race, they replaced the Stealth with a pre-production Dodge Viper, a car that symbolized American muscle and ingenuity.
The Colani Blue Car is said to be a design built for the Dodge Stealth, based on Mitsubishi's Z16A platform, which is shared with the Mitsubishi GTO/3000GT.(Picture from: CultObjects in Flickr)
Amid this controversy, Luigi Colani’s design for the Dodge Stealth emerged. While it’s unclear whether Colani was officially commissioned by Chrysler or whether this was an independent project, his design transformed the Stealth in a way that was uniquely his. Colani’s take on the car featured his signature bio-design language, with fluid, organic shapes that made the vehicle look like it was in motion even when standing still. The front fascia, with its elongated nose and double headlights, gave the car an almost otherworldly appearance, blending aerodynamic efficiency with Colani’s artistic vision. The rear, reminiscent of American muscle cars like the Camaro, added a sense of raw power and speed to the design.
Luigi Colani posed alongside his car creations, such as the Mamba Concept, Ferrari Testa D'Oro, and many others. (Picture from: RawViper)
Although the Luigi Colani Dodge Stealth concept didn’t reach mass production, it showcased Colani’s ability to reinterpret a vehicle at the center of a national debate and turn it into something bold and futuristic. His design pushed the boundaries of what the Dodge Stealth could be, moving it away from the controversy surrounding its Japanese roots and into the realm of art and innovation.
The Colani Mamba Concept, when viewed as a whole from the front, reveals a unified design where the flowing lines and curves come together to resemble the shape of a Mamba snake's head.(Picture from: Sumally)
Interestingly, Colani’s work on the Dodge Stealth seemed to have a lasting influence on his later designs. In the late 1990s, Colani revisited the Dodge brand, creating several remodels of the Dodge Viper in collaboration with Autohaus Getra, a German automotive company. His work on the Viper, including the Mamba Concept, featured striking elements that echoed his earlier Stealth design. The distinctive double headlights and flowing lines that characterized the Colani Blue Car reappeared in these remodels, suggesting that Colani’s experience with the Stealth left a lasting impact on his design philosophy.
The Colani Shark Speedster was designed and built by Luigi Colani in collaboration with the German auto design house Reinhard Stahl.(Picture from: Autoweek.nl)
Colani’s work in the early 2000s further demonstrated the influence of his Dodge Stealth concept. One notable example is the Colani Shark Speedster, a design that emerged in collaboration with Reinhard Stahl, a German auto design house. The Shark Speedster, with its sleek lines and futuristic aesthetic, bore a resemblance to the Colani Blue Car, particularly in its front fascia. It’s as though Colani took the DNA of the Stealth design and refined it for the next generation of his work. | zF4wJglSr_8 |
The Luigi Colani Dodge Stealth concept stands as a testament to the designer’s ability to turn controversy into creativity. Where others saw a car mired in debates about national identity, Colani saw an opportunity to push boundaries and redefine what the Stealth could be. His Blue Car design, with its organic shapes and radical ideas, not only reimagined the Stealth but also laid the groundwork for future projects, leaving an indelible mark on automotive design well into the 2000s. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | COLANI | COLANI.ORG | CULTOBJECTS IN X | BUBBLEMANIA.FR | STORY-CARS| RAWVIPER | DODGEGARAGE | MOPARINSIDERS | REDDIT WEIRDWHEEL ]
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Forgotten ONES - In the world of luxury cars, certain names resonate with history and passion. Just as Facel Vega once stood as a symbol of French automotive prestige, another name briefly flickered in that same realm—Monica. Named after the wife of its creator, industrialist Jean Tastevin, this car was poised to carry on the legacy of luxury French cars. But unlike many long-standing names in the industry, Monica’s time was tragically short, marking an interesting yet brief chapter in French automotive history.
The Monica sports GT, shown here as the 1973 Monica 560 V8 model, was created by Jean Tastevin's French company, Compagnie Française de Produits Métallurgiques (CFPM), in the early 1970s.(Picture from: GordonMercedes9 on X)
Jean Tastevin, known for his company that manufactured rolling stock for French railways, had a deep admiration for the luxurious creations of Facel Vega, a French luxury car maker that ceased production in 1964. Tastevin saw an opportunity to revive the spirit of French luxury motoring, and within two years, his thoughts were centered on building a new car that would fill the gap left behind by Facel Vega. This decision would eventually lead to the creation of the Monica, but the road to production was filled with challenges.
Monique Tastevin posed along with the GT car that bore her name. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Unlike the Facel Vega models that were powered by large Chrysler V8 engines, Tastevin’s new car needed to comply with French tax regulations, which meant a smaller engine. The answer came in the form of a 2.6-liter Triumph TR4 engine, developed by Chris Lawrence, a skilled engineer and racing driver.
The LawrenceTune/Standard-Triumph 2.6-liter engine, as seen here in a Morgan +4. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Lawrence was initially contracted to supply these engines, but soon, he found himself at the heart of the project, offering his expertise not just in engineering but in car design as well. By 1966, work had begun on the new luxury saloon that would carry the Monica name.
The original Monica prototype, styled by Maurice Gomm. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
As the development progressed, the Monica featured innovative engineering for its time. Its suspension system was sophisticated, with a double-wishbone setup at the front and a Panhard rod at the rear. The car was equipped with disc brakes all around, ensuring it could stop as gracefully as it accelerated.
The second Monica prototype, styled by Williams & Pritchard. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Although the prototypes used an unassisted steering system, the production models were planned to include power-assisted steering for a smoother driving experience. The exterior design drew inspiration from iconic cars like the Maserati Indy and Lotus Elan, with a sleek and elegant front end that gave it a striking presence on the road.
A sketch of the Monica prototype made by Carrozzeria Vignale. (Picture from: Hagerty)
Inside, the Monica was no less impressive. Its interior was a blend of craftsmanship and luxury, with finely finished wood accents that gave the cabin a classic GT feel. The green scripted Veglia gauges added a touch of sophistication, while the dark blue leather upholstery paired with parchment-colored carpets created a comfortable and inviting environment. Rear seating was particularly plush, with thick padding and ample legroom, making it a true luxury saloon.
The third Monica prototype, styled by Carrozzeria Vignale. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
However, as the prototypes were built and tested, it became clear that the Triumph engine lacked the refinement necessary for a car of this stature. This led to a significant change in the powertrain. Lawrence, recognizing the need for a more refined engine, convinced Tastevin to switch to a 3.0-liter V8 designed by Ted Martin. Although the new V8 was smoother, it lacked low-end torque, prompting the decision to increase its displacement to 3.5 liters, which boosted power to 240 bhp when fitted with Weber carburettors.
A preproduction Monica 350 prototype powered by a Ted Martin's 3.0-liter V8 engine. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Despite these improvements, the Monica’s journey was far from smooth. A series of prototypes were built over the following years, with various engineers and companies lending their expertise to the project. Renowned coachbuilders such as Chapron and Vignale, along with body builders Williams & Pritchard, contributed to different aspects of the car's development. This collaborative effort resulted in multiple body designs, engine configurations, and transmission setups, all while costs continued to rise.
A Monica prototype on public display for the first time in Paris. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The Monica finally made its public debut at the Paris Salon in October 1971, under the name Monica 350. However, the car still lacked the performance to truly compete with its rivals, leading to another significant change. The decision was made to replace the 3.5-liter V8 with a more powerful 5.6-liter Chrysler V8, producing 285 bhp and 333 lb-ft of torque.
The Monica 350, powered by a Ted Martin's 3.5-liter V8 engine, made its public debut at the Paris Salon in October 1971.(Picture from: DrivenToWrite)
This revised version, now called the Monica 560, was unveiled at the Geneva Salon in 1973. It was billed as the world’s fastest four-door saloon, boasting a top speed of 150 mph and a host of luxury features including air conditioning, electric windows, and high-end leather trim.
Interior view of the 1973 Monica 560 V8 GT. (Picture from: GordonMercedes9 on X)
Yet, despite its impressive specifications, the timing of the Monica’s release could not have been worse. The global oil crisis of the early 1970s made large, thirsty V8 engines far less appealing, and the Monica struggled to find buyers. By 1975, just as production was starting to gain momentum, Tastevin made the difficult decision to shut down the project.
Rear three-quarter view of the 1973 Monica 560 V8 GT. (Picture from: GordonMercedes9 on X)
Although Panther Westwinds briefly considered continuing production in the UK, the plan ultimately fell through, leaving the Monica as a rare footnote in automotive history. As Jean Tastevin had envisioned a production run of 400 Monicas per year, but in the end, only 35 cars were ever built, most of which were pre-production prototypes.
Today, the Monica stands as the last independent French luxury car, joining the ranks of forgotten brands like Facel Vega and Delahaye. Though its time was brief, the Monica’s story remains a fascinating chapter in the history of luxury motoring—a testament to ambition, craftsmanship, and the ever-changing fortunes of the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CURBSIDECLASSIC | HAGERTY | BRINGATRAILER | GORDONMERCEDES9 | WIKIPEDIA | DRIVENTOWRITE | RARECOMPONENTCARS ]
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While the original M81 McLaren Mustang may not have been a massive commercial success, its legacy lives on as a fascinating chapter in the Mustang’s history. It was a bold attempt to create something different, blending Ford's American muscle with McLaren's precision engineering. In the end, it may have been too expensive for its time, but it remains a symbol of innovation and daring in the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOTCARS | SILODROME | MOTORTREND | AMCARGUIDE | LMR ]
