Forgotten ONES - The mid-20th century saw a surge in microcar production as engineers sought innovative solutions for affordable, compact transportation. While brands like BMW and Heinkel, along with a series of other German-made microcars, became well-known for their contributions, East Germany also had its own fascinating microcar projects, including the rare and unique 1958 Schubert Prototyp.
The Schubert Prototyp was built in 1958 by Herr Schubert, an East German citizen from the city of Hainichen, with only two units ever produced. (Picture from: Mr.Scharroo'sWeird Cars Museum on Flickr)
There is little information about this microcar, which was built by an East German citizen named Herr Schubert from Hainichen, this handcrafted vehicle stands out due to its distinct design and engineering choices. The car closely resembles the Heinkel Kabine 175 Type 153, a popular bubble car of the era, but with its own homemade twist. Schubert designed the car using a 350cc two-stroke flat-twin engine sourced from an IFA BK350 motorcycle. This engine, originally designed for a motorcycle, featured a shaft drive system, an uncommon characteristic that made it well-suited for use in a car.
At first glance, the 1958 Schubert Prototyp bears a resemblance to the Heinkel Kabine 175 Type 153. (Picture from: Teilix on Instagram)
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Schubert Prototyp 350cc is its unconventional entry system. Instead of having side doors like most cars, the entire front of the vehicle acts as a door, hinged at the bottom. This design, reminiscent of the Polish Smyk B30 and even the BMW Isetta 600, presents both charm and challenges. While it maximizes space efficiency, getting in and out of the vehicle can be quite cumbersome.
The 1958 Schubert Prototyp features an unconventional entry system, with the entire front of the vehicle serving as a door hinged at the bottom instead of traditional side doors. (Picture from: Mr.Scharroo'sWeird Cars Museum on Flickr)
Schubert is believed to have built only two of these microcars, making them extremely rare. It's said that one of these examples has been preserved and put on display at the Automuseum Störy in Bockenem, Germany. Despite its obscurity, the Schubert Prototyp 350cc represents a remarkable effort by an unknown individual to create a functional and innovative vehicle in a time of economic constraints.
The 1958 Schubert Prototyp powered by a 350cc two-stroke flat-twin engine sourced from an IFA BK350 motorcycle. (Picture from: Mr.Scharroo'sWeird Cars Museum on Flickr)
The existence of this car is a testament to human ingenuity and determination, especially in an era when resources were limited. Though it never entered mass production, the Schubert Prototyp 350cc remains a fascinating piece of automotive history, showcasing the creativity of microcar enthusiasts in East Germany. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MRSCHRROO'S WEIRD CAR MUSEUM ON FLICKR | MICROCAR WORLD ON FACEBOOK ]
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Visionary Innovation - In the 1960s, the automotive world was captivated by the allure of bold designs and powerful engines. Amidst this era of grandeur, a quiet revolution was brewing—a movement toward innovation and efficiency that would one day shape the future of transportation. One remarkable outcome of this foresight was the AMC Amitron, a small but mighty electric car created by American Motors Corporation (AMC). Although it never reached mass production, its legacy as a pioneer in electric vehicle design remains a testament to the ingenuity of its creators.
The AMC Amitron was an experimental electric subcompact car built in 1967 by American Motors Corporation (AMC) in collaboration with battery manufacturer Gulton Industries. (Picture from: Noticias.Coches)
The AMC Amitron was introduced in 1967, a direct result of the Electric Vehicle Development Act of 1966 in collaboration with Gulton Industries, which aimed to encourage research into electric vehicles. Unlike its competitors, AMC chose not to retrofit an existing model but instead designed a vehicle from scratch. The Amitron stood out not just for its futuristic concept but for its trailblazing approach to urban mobility. At only 85 inches (2.16 meters) long and weighing a mere 1,100 pounds, the car was a compact marvel, offering efficiency without compromising functionality.
The 1967 AMC Amitron EV concept was a compact marvel, measuring just 85 inches (2.16 meters) in length and weighing only 1,100 lbs, offering efficiency without sacrificing functionality.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
What set the Amitron apart from other vehicles of its time was its bold design and advanced engineering. The polygonal shape and clamshell-style canopy were strikingly unconventional. Unlike traditional doors, the canopy opened upward and backward, giving the vehicle a distinct appearance. Despite its compact size, the Amitron was designed with practicality in mind. The wheels were placed at each corner, maximizing interior space and providing stability. Its near-square footprint allowed three passengers to sit side-by-side in comfort—a feat remarkable for a car shorter than today's Smart car. Even the seats were innovative; they could be deflated when not in use, creating additional storage space.
The AMC Amitron EV concept featured a groundbreaking power system that combined lithium-nickel-fluoride batteries with nickel-cadmium batteries. (Picture from: Hemmings)
Technologically, the Amitron was light-years ahead of its peers. It featured a groundbreaking power system that combined lithium-nickel-fluoride batteries with nickel-cadmium batteries, a configuration that was unheard of at the time. The lithium-nickel-fluoride batteries recharged the nickel-cadmium units while the vehicle was in motion, enhancing its range and efficiency.
The
AMC Amitron EV concept faced insurmountable battery costs and technical
challenges, leading to its cancellation despite plans for a 1972
production model. (Picture from: Noticias.Coches)
Moreover, the Amitron was the first American car to incorporate regenerative braking, a feature now standard in modern electric vehicles. This technology allowed the car to recover energy during braking, further extending its range—a reported 150 miles at speeds of up to 50 mph.
The 1977 rebadged AMC Amitron EV concept, now called the AMC Electron, was updated with rear-view side mirrors. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Despite its many innovations, the Amitron faced significant challenges that ultimately prevented it from reaching production. The high cost of battery technology and technical hurdles proved insurmountable in the late 1960s. AMC had initially hoped to bring a production model to market by 1972, but these obstacles, combined with limited consumer interest in electric vehicles at the time, led to the project's cancellation.
The Amitron did not disappear entirely. It made a reappearance in 1977 under a new name, the Electron, at the Chicago Auto Show, showcasing a fresh coat of paint and reminding the public of its potential. Its story, however, took an unusual turn when Chuck Mashigan, head of the AMC design studio, decided to preserve the vehicle.
The 1967 AMC Amitron EV concept scale model discovered in a barn alongside its full-sized prototype. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)
Rather than letting it fade into obscurity, Mashigan took the Amitron home, ensuring its survival for decades. The car was eventually passed down to his grandson, Justin, who kept it safe until it found a new home at the Petersen Automotive Museum. Today, the AMC Amitron stands as a symbol of visionary engineering and a reminder of how far electric vehicle technology has come.
The 1967 AMC Amitron Concept electric car was discovered in a barn after Chuck Mashigan, head of AMC's design studio at the time, decided to preserve it in his garage. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)
Currently undergoing a light restoration at the Petersen Museum, it will soon take its rightful place on display, allowing visitors to marvel at this unique piece of automotive history. From its futuristic design to its innovative technology, the Amitron serves as a beacon of creativity and ambition from a time when such ideas were often ahead of their era.
The story of the AMC Amitron is not just about a car but about the power of vision and perseverance. It highlights how daring innovation can leave a lasting impact, even if it doesn't achieve immediate success. For those who see it today, the Amitron is more than just a relic—it is a source of inspiration, a reminder that progress often begins with bold, unconventional ideas. Its legacy continues to fuel the imagination of those dreaming of a sustainable, electrified future. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER | AUTOEVOLUTION | HEMMINGS | NOTICIAS.COCHES | AUTOS.YAHOO | WIKIPEDIA | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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Bespoke Classic - Always on the lookout for hidden gems and untold stories of rare and unique cars, we’ve uncovered something truly special. It’s not every day that a classic vehicle is reborn in a way that honors its legacy while completely redefining its character. When you think of iconic Italian automotive design, names like Ferrari or Lamborghini might be the first to come to mind—but for generations, the modest Fiat 500 has stood as a symbol of charm, practicality, and the resilient spirit of post-war Italy. It was never about speed or extravagance—it was about freedom. And now, a rare example is capturing attention not just for what it once was, but for the remarkable transformation it has undergone.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè is a custom-built creation by the skilled hands of Varis Vegni, dramatically transformed from its original form.(Picture from: Retromania4ever on X)
This is the story of a one-of-a-kind Fiat 500 D Coupè, custom-built by the skilled hands of Varis Vegni, a dedicated craftsman from the province of Grosseto, Italy. Originally a 1960 Fiat 500 D, this car started life as one of the many compact city cars that helped mobilize Italy during the economic boom. Vegni, who had owned the car since 1973, envisioned something far more distinctive. After years of planning throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he finally brought his design to life between the 1990s and early 2000s—transforming the beloved city car into a one-off coupé masterpiece.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè was entirely reimagined by Varis Vegni, who devoted his spare time to handcrafting its distinctive coupé silhouette using traditional hand-beating techniques while preserving the car’s original spirit.(Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)
Every curve and contour of this Fiat 500 was reimagined through manual craftsmanship. Vegni dedicated his spare time to reshaping the car’s body, using traditional hand-beating techniques to mold its unique coupe silhouette while preserving its unmistakable soul. The original “suicide doors” were retained, offering a nostalgic nod to the car’s classic design, but the overall bodywork was refined to give the vehicle a sleeker and sportier presence—without compromising its original proportions.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè features a fully restored interior, with upholstery redone in Fiat’s original ochre color and accented by a white bezel for a vintage touch. (Picture from: NetClassic.it)
What makes this coupé even more special is how faithfully it retains the essence of the original. It still runs on the rear-mounted 499cc twin-cylinder engine, producing 17 horsepower through a 4-speed manual gearbox. The original dimensions, including the signature sunroof, remain untouched, ensuring that the transformation didn’t stray from the spirit of the car. Updates include a dedicated front fuel tank and a custom battery compartment, thoughtfully integrated to support the modified structure.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè retains its original “suicide doors” as a nostalgic nod to its classic design, while its refined bodywork adds a sleeker, sportier presence without altering its original proportions.(Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)
Inside, the restoration continues to impress. The upholstery has been completely redone in Fiat’s original ochre color, accented with a white bezel for a vintage finish. New door panels, refreshed chrome details, and Giannini wheel studs reflect the attention to detail that defines this build. Even the hood has been replaced and now functions seamlessly, keeping out water and maintaining the car’s practical charm.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè showcases meticulous attention to detail through its new door panels, refreshed chrome accents, and Giannini wheel studs.(Picture from: QuatroMania.it)
Still painted in its original Fiat 115 Medium Red, this unique creation hasn’t just been restored—it’s been elevated. Certified for roadworthiness as recently as October 2021, it passed inspections with ease and has only minor maintenance needs noted for the future. With just over 38,000 kilometers on the odometer, it remains a working piece of art ready for display or daily enjoyment.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè remains painted in its original Fiat 115 Medium Red and is powered by a rear-mounted 499cc twin-cylinder engine delivering 17 horsepower through a 4-speed manual gearbox.(Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)
Wherever it appears, this Fiat 500 D Coupè draws admiration. It was a highlight at the 2022 Auto Moto d’Epoca fair in Padua and is now catching the eyes of collectors and enthusiasts alike on platforms like Catawiki (already had sold). It may be small in stature, but this car carries a grand presence, proving that when passion meets craftsmanship, even the most modest beginnings can lead to extraordinary transformations.
Futuristic Oddity - In an era where design often pushes the limits of imagination, it's fascinating to look back and see how the roots of automotive innovation were already being planted decades ago. Post-war Japan, emerging from economic and material scarcity, became a breeding ground for compact, fuel-efficient microcars—vehicles designed not only for practicality but occasionally for sheer whimsy. Among these quirky creations stands one of the most charming and eccentric examples ever made: the 1968 Subaru Tortoise, a unique vehicle that can be seen as a precursor to the modern kei car movement that would later flourish in Japan.
The Subaru Tortoise was a one-off marvel that blended creative artistry with functional automotive engineering, built based on the Subaru 360. (Picture from: QuirkyRides on X)
This unique vehicle, officially known as the "Land Tortoise," wasn’t just another small car. It was a one-off marvel that blended creative artistry with functional automotive engineering. Based on the Subaru 360—a kei car introduced in 1958 and affectionately nicknamed the "ladybug" in Japan—the Tortoise was reimagined into something altogether more futuristic and bizarre. Where the original Subaru 360 featured a modest two-door frame and a 356 cc rear-mounted engine, the Tortoise transformed that platform into something more akin to a bubble-top space pod than a typical car.
The remarkable Subaru Tortoise traces back to the Japanese TV series Kaiki Daisakusen (1968–1971), which featured the Science Research Institute (SRI) investigating unexplained phenomena. (Picture from: WeirdWheels on Reddit)
The origins of this remarkable car trace back to the Japanese television series Kaiki Daisakusen, which aired from 1968 to 1971. The show, which translates to Operation: Mystery! in English, followed a fictional organization known as the Science Research Institute (SRI) as they tackled cases involving unexplained phenomena. This was no ordinary crime-solving agency, and they needed a ride to match. Enter the Subaru Tortoise—custom-built specifically for the show, capturing the curiosity and playfulness that defined its era. The show’s creator, Eiji Tsuburaya, was already a legendary figure in Japanese pop culture, having co-created iconic franchises like Godzilla and Ultraman. So it’s no surprise that even the vehicles in his world carried a certain cinematic flair.
The
remarkable Subaru Tortoise traces back to the Japanese TV series Kaiki
Daisakusen (1968–1971), which featured the Science Research Institute
(SRI) investigating unexplained phenomena. (Picture from: Autopuzzles)
The Tortoise was a small, open-top two-seater, its whimsical design rounded out by exaggerated curves, a high dome-like windshield, and a minimalist, spaceship-like body. While it's assumed the original 356 cc engine remained intact, speed certainly wasn’t part of its appeal. Clocking a 0-to-50 mph time in a leisurely 37.5 seconds, the Tortoise was more about style and story than performance. It was so compact, in fact, that tall drivers were reportedly forced to peer over the windshield while driving—a visual that no doubt added to the car's already cartoonish charm.
The
remarkable Subaru Tortoise was a small, open-top two-seater, its whimsical design rounded out by exaggerated curves, a high dome-like windshield, and a minimalist, spaceship-like body. (Picture from: Autopuzzles)
Unfortunately, very little is known about the fate of the Subaru Tortoise. It was built by a company known only as Haruki Automotive Industry Co., Ltd., led by Kihachiro Haruki, at an estimated cost of around ¥1 million. Despite its limited screen time in Kaiki Daisakusen, the Tortoise left a lasting impression thanks to its distinctive design and quirky presence.
The remarkable Subaru Tortoise was assumed to retain the original Subaru 360’s 356 cc rear-mounted engine, though speed was clearly never part of its appeal. (Picture from: Autopuzzles)
In one especially memorable episode, a hippie couple finds the tiny car at a gas station and impulsively takes it for a joyride. The fun quickly turns eerie when a supernatural force possesses the driver, leading to a loss of control and a crash into a cinder block wall—securing the Tortoise’s place in cult TV lore. While the show also featured iconic vehicles like the Toyota 2000GT, it’s the Tortoise that stands out as a true emblem of offbeat creativity. | _JXb5kwmVr0 |
The 1968 Subaru Tortoise is more than just an automotive oddity; it's a snapshot of a time when television, design, and technology collided in the most unexpected ways. It serves as a delightful reminder that even in an industry often obsessed with power and speed, there's always room for imagination. Whether you're a fan of vintage cars, Japanese pop culture, or just love seeing something truly out of the box, the Tortoise proves that sometimes the smallest vehicles carry the biggest stories. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | 95OCTANE | MARIOTHEMULTIPLA | JAPANESE NOSTALGIC CAR | AUTOPUZZLES | QUIRKYRIDES ON X | PISTONBROKE ON FACEBOOK | MICROCARS WORLD ON FACEBOOK | WEIRDWHEELS ON REDDIT ]
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Mini Beast - The automotive industry is evolving rapidly, with electric vehicles (EVs) leading the way toward a more sustainable future. While large electric trucks have gained traction, there is growing demand for compact yet powerful alternatives that fit urban environments without compromising capability.
The Telo MT1, a groundbreaking mini electric truck that challenges the trend of oversized pickup. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
Addressing this need, California-based startup Telo Trucks has introduced the Telo MT1, a groundbreaking mini electric truck that challenges the trend of oversized pickups. As reported by Fox News, Telo recently unveiled the preproduction prototype of the MT1 in Los Angeles, giving the public a closer look at what could be a game-changer in the EV truck market.
The Telo MT1 offers two configurations: a base model with a 300-horsepower single-motor rear-wheel drive and a 260-mile range, and an upgraded dual-motor all-wheel-drive version delivering 500 horsepower with a 350-mile range. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
Despite its small footprint—just 152 inches in length, comparable to a Mini Cooper SE—the Telo MT1 boasts the utility of a full-size pickup. It comfortably seats five adults while offering a 60-inch truck bed, and thanks to a folding midgate, it can accommodate large items like an 8-foot surfboard or 4-by-8 plywood sheets. This combination of practicality and space efficiency makes it ideal for both city driving and outdoor adventures.
The Telo MT1, despite its compact 152-inch length comparable to a Mini Cooper SE, offers the utility of a full-size pickup. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
Performance-wise, the MT1 comes in two configurations. The base model features a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive system producing 300 horsepower with an estimated range of 260 miles. For those seeking more power, an upgraded dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version delivers 500 horsepower, extends the range to 350 miles, and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just four seconds. Fast-charging technology allows a 20%-80% recharge in only 20 minutes, while optional solar panels on the cab roof or tonneau cover can add up to 15 miles of additional range per day, boosting efficiency.
The Telo MT1 boasts the utility of a full-size pickup. It comfortably seats five adults while offering a 60-inch truck bed, and thanks to a folding midgate. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
Beyond performance, the MT1 integrates innovative design features. Its adaptable layout allows the truck bed to extend into the cab, providing flexibility for different cargo and passenger needs. The interior is crafted with sustainable materials like biodegradable cork, ensuring a clean and minimalist aesthetic. Safety is also a priority, with advanced sensors and structural reinforcements designed to make the MT1 one of the most secure vehicles in its category.
The Telo MT1 prioritizes safety with advanced sensors and structural reinforcements, making it one of the most secure vehicles in its category. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
Telo has ambitious plans for the MT1, with an initial price of $41,520 for the base model. According to Fox News, the company has already secured over 5,000 preorders, representing more than $250 million in customer commitments.
The Telo MT1 combines practicality and space efficiency, making it ideal for both city driving and outdoor adventures. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
To bring the truck to market, Telo is working with the California-based Aria Group, a renowned manufacturer specializing in early-stage vehicle development and rapid prototyping for major automotive brands. While full-scale production is still a couple of years away, prototype testing is already in progress, with safety and durability evaluations set to take place before regulatory inspections next winter.
The Telo MT1 is a bold innovation in the electric truck segment, offering a compelling blend of compact design, impressive power, and eco-friendly features. While challenges remain—such as scaling production and maintaining affordability—this mini-truck has the potential to reshape the EV landscape. If Telo successfully delivers on its promises, the MT1 could become a top choice for drivers looking for a versatile, efficient, and sustainable truck tailored for modern living. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TELO TRUCKS | FOX NEWS ]
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Forgotten Futurism - The 1930s marked an era of bold automotive experimentation. With the Great Depression disrupting industries, many ambitious entrepreneurs saw an opportunity to introduce radical vehicle concepts. One such visionary was Paul M. Lewis, who sought to revolutionize transportation with his streamlined, three-wheeled vehicle called Airomobile.
The 1937 Lewis Airomobile Prototype now resides in the National Automobile Museum in Reno, Nevada, where visitors can marvel at this ambitious yet ill-fated creation. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)
Unlike conventional cars of its time, the Airomobile was designed to be affordable, highly efficient, and aerodynamically advanced—offering a glimpse into a future where cars defied traditional design and function. However, despite its innovative engineering, it remained a dream that never reached mass production.
The 1937 Lewis Airomobile prototype was built and designed by a team consisting of John Tjaarda and former Franklin Automobile Company engineers Carl Doman and Edward Marks, under the commission of Paul M. Lewis. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)
Lewis first introduced the idea in 1934, forming Lewis American Airways to develop the car. To bring his vision to life, he assembled a team of experts, including John Tjaarda, a renowned automotive designer known for his work on the Lincoln Zephyr, and two former Franklin Automobile Company engineers, Carl Doman and Edward Marks. With their combined expertise, the team created a car that stood out from anything else on the road.
The 1937 Lewis Airomobile featured front-wheel drive and steering, an unconventional setup designed to enhance stability and control. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)
At first glance, the Airomobile had a striking resemblance to other futuristic cars of the era, such as Buckminster Fuller's Dymaxion. However, unlike the Dymaxion, which had rear-wheel steering, the Airomobile featured front-wheel drive and front-wheel steering. This setup, while unconventional, was intended to provide greater stability and control.
The
1937 Lewis Airomobile featured front-wheel drive and steering, an
unconventional setup designed to enhance stability and control. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)
The vehicle's lightweight chassis and aerodynamic body allowed it to reach speeds of up to 80 mph while delivering an impressive fuel efficiency of 40 miles per gallon. Under the hood, Doman and Marks developed a unique 129-cubic-inch, air-cooled, flat-four engine that produced 60 horsepower—an advanced design that would later influence aircraft engines.
The 1937 Lewis Airomobile powered by a a unique 129-cubic-inch, air-cooled, flat-four engine that produced 60 horsepower—an advanced design that would later influence aircraft engines. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)
To prove the Airomobile’s capabilities, Lewis embarked on an ambitious promotional tour in 1937, covering 45,000 miles across the United States. He claimed the car performed exceptionally well, averaging 44 mph and 80 mpg. However, not everyone was convinced. Investors remained skeptical, and despite modifications to the front-end design in 1938, funding never materialized. The Airomobile, with its $550 projected price tag, was ultimately deemed too radical for mass production. With no financial backing, the project came to a halt, leaving only a single prototype behind.
The 1937 Lewis Airomobile's lightweight chassis and aerodynamic body allowed it to reach speeds of up to 80 mph while delivering an impressive fuel efficiency of 40 miles per gallon. (Picture from: MacsMotorCityGarage)
Although the Airomobile itself faded into obscurity, its innovative engine found a second life. The Doman-Marks flat-four evolved into the Franklin 4AC-150, later produced by Air Cooled Motors and used in small aircraft during the 1940s, including Piper and Taylorcraft planes. Meanwhile, Paul M. Lewis continued his pursuit of futuristic automobiles, later developing the eccentric Fascination series, which, like the Airomobile, never reached commercial success. | rIyQPjU5gPQ |
Today, the lone Airomobile prototype survives as a rare piece of automotive history. Pioneering car collector Bill Harrah acquired and restored it, ensuring its preservation for future generations. It now resides in the National Automobile Museum in Reno, Nevada, where visitors can marvel at this ambitious yet ill-fated creation. While the Airomobile never made it to production, it remains a testament to the daring ingenuity of its time—a reminder that even the most unconventional ideas can leave a lasting mark on the world of transportation. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MACSMOTORCITYGARAGE | THROTTLEEXTREME | LUXURYEXPERIENCE ]
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Compact Brilliance - Abarth is a name that resonates with automotive enthusiasts worldwide, symbolizing the pinnacle of small-car engineering and motorsports triumphs. The journey of Abarth cars, particularly the extraordinary Fiat Abarth OT Periscopio, is a tale of innovation, resilience, and passion. To appreciate this legacy, it’s essential to delve into the origins of the man behind the brand, Carlo Abarth, and the unique circumstances that gave birth to this iconic model—a car as rare and magical as a mythical one-horned unicorn.
The 1966 Fiat Abarth OT 1300 Periscopio, a Gran Turismo marvel developed in 1965. This car was crafted on the remnants of Simca 1000 chassis floor pans. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Carlo Abarth, born in Austria, was a visionary who transformed modest vehicles into motorsport marvels. By the 1960s, Abarth had cemented his reputation as a master of reengineering, partnering with brands like Fiat, Simca, and Porsche to create high-performance vehicles. His relentless pursuit of excellence led to the birth of the Abarth OT 1300, a Gran Turismo marvel developed in 1965. This car was crafted on the remnants of Simca 1000 chassis floor pans, a result of a halted collaboration between Abarth and Simca after Chrysler acquired a controlling stake in the French company.
The 1966 Fiat Abarth OT 1300 Periscopio powered by a 1.3-liter Abarth engine producing 147 horsepower at an astonishing 8,800 rpm, boasted a dry-sump lubrication system, dual Weber carburetors, and a five-speed transaxle. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
The Abarth OT 1300 emerged as a technical masterpiece. Built on a modified Simca 1000 platform, it featured a lightweight yet rigid pressed-steel chassis and a fiberglass body designed by Mario Colucci. The innovative design extended to its mechanics. Powered by a 1.3-liter Abarth engine producing 147 horsepower at an astonishing 8,800 rpm, the Abarth OT 1300 boasted a dry-sump lubrication system, dual Weber carburetors, and a five-speed transaxle. The car's dimensions were meticulously calibrated for racing, with a wheelbase of 2,015 mm and independent suspension ensuring agility and stability on the track.
The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio while sat on display at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
Among the car’s standout features was its distinctive periscopic air intake mounted high on the roof—a design as captivating as the horn of a unicorn. Much like the mythical creature, the "Periscopio" was not only visually striking but also served a functional purpose. The intake channeled cool air into the cockpit to counteract the heat generated by water and oil-cooling pipes running through the cabin, ensuring driver comfort during grueling endurance races. This combination of practicality and flair made the OT "Periscopio" a marvel both on and off the track, evoking the mystique and rarity of its mythical counterpart.
The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio, a more powerful evolution of the OT 1300, with its even more prominent "unicorn horn" air intake, cemented its place in automotive lore.(Picture from: Lotus16)
Building on the success of the OT 1300, Abarth developed the Abarth OT 2000, a more powerful iteration featuring a 2.0-liter engine capable of producing 215 horsepower. This version, with its even more prominent "unicorn horn" air intake, cemented its place in automotive lore. With a top speed exceeding 165 mph, the OT 2000 showcased Abarth's prowess in extracting extraordinary performance from humble engine blocks. Drivers, including renowned Formula 1 racer Jochen Rindt, regularly pushed these cars to their limits, solidifying their reputation on tracks worldwide.
The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio demonstrated Abarth's mastery in achieving extraordinary performance, reaching speeds over 165 mph from modest engine origins. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
The OT 1300 and its successor, the OT 2000, were not merely engineering achievements; they represented the spirit of innovation that defined Abarth as a brand. These cars, though small in size, were monumental in their impact, claiming hundreds of victories and elevating Abarth's status as a premier race car manufacturer. By the late 1960s, Abarth's dedication to performance and design had earned it a revered place in automotive history.
The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio crafted only three units, making it one of the rarest and most coveted Abarth cars in history. (Picture from: Fiat Abarth La Passion)
In terms of production numbers, the OT 1300 met the FIA's homologation requirements with at least 50 units reportedly built. This already limited figure highlights the rarity of this model. However, its successor, the OT 2000 "Periscopio," was produced in an even more exclusive number. Only three units of the OT 2000 were ever created, making it one of the rarest and most coveted Abarth cars in history.
The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopioequipped with a 2.0-liter engine delivering 215 horsepower. (Picture from: Lotus16)
Today, the Fiat Abarth OT 'Periscopio' remains a symbol of Karl Abarth's ingenuity and the golden era of motorsport. Its striking design, characterized by the iconic roof-mounted air intake, continues to inspire car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Much like a unicorn, its rarity and uniqueness make it a coveted masterpiece in the automotive world—a reminder of an era where artistry met engineering with uncompromising precision.
As we reflect on the achievements of Karl Abarth and his remarkable creations, the story of the OT "Periscopio" serves as a reminder that true innovation stems from embracing challenges and pushing boundaries. These cars are not just vehicles but enduring icons of what passion and vision can achieve. And just like the unicorn that dazzles our imagination, the "Periscopio" continues to captivate hearts, a timeless testament to Abarth's dream of creating magic on wheels. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTORTREND | CONCEPTCARZ | DANAUS.NET | AUTA5P.EU | HISTORICAUTOPRO | WEBCARSTORY | EGZOSTIVE | ULTIMATECARPAGE | BERNIMOTORI ] FIAT ABARTH LA PASSION | LOTUS16 ]
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The existence of this car is a testament to human ingenuity and determination, especially in an era when resources were limited. Though it never entered mass production, the Schubert Prototyp 350cc remains a fascinating piece of automotive history, showcasing the creativity of microcar enthusiasts in East Germany. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MRSCHRROO'S WEIRD CAR MUSEUM ON FLICKR | MICROCAR WORLD ON FACEBOOK ]
