Fiat 500 Transformed into a Porsche 911: A Bold Customization

Bold Reinvention - In a world where creativity knows no bounds, car enthusiasts often find themselves at the crossroads between imagination and engineering. From lifted supercars to tiny trucks turned into tanks, the automotive modification scene continues to surprise us with ever more daring and eccentric builds. Among these bold statements on four wheels, one peculiar creation has recently caught the internet’s eye—a Fiat 500 transformed to look like a Porsche 911 Turbo. And no, this isn’t just a bumper swap or a decal trick. This is a full-blown metamorphosis of a friendly little city car into a faux-German speedster, and it's hard to look away.

A bold Fiat 500 Piccolino customization by a Greek car enthusiast, who transformed it to resemble a Porsche 911. (Picture from: HowNotToDesignACar on Facebook)

At first glance, it’s hard not to do a double-take. The front fascia is strikingly reminiscent of a Porsche, complete with the iconic grille design and headlamps reshaped to mimic those of the legendary 911. The bumper has been flattened to eliminate any trace of the original Fiat's cartoonish smile, leaving a more aggressive, focused expression in its place. From this angle alone, it becomes clear that the builder wasn’t aiming for subtlety—they wanted transformation.

The rear of the vehicle doesn’t disappoint either. Instead of the rounded charm typical of a Fiat 500, this modified version sports a continuous taillight setup that’s clearly inspired by modern Porsche models. Sitting just above it is perhaps the most amusing addition: a rear wing reminiscent of the Porsche 996 or 911. Functionally useless for a car of this size and speed, the wing exists purely for aesthetics—although whether that aesthetic is a hit or a miss depends entirely on the viewer’s taste.

The builder went far beyond simply adding Porsche badges, extensively reworking the hood, trunk, rear bumper, and sculpting in faux side vents, all complemented by a rear wing reminiscent of the Porsche 996 or 911. (Picture from: HowNotToDesignACar on Facebook)

Reportedly spotted in Greece and shared widely via the Facebook page “How Not to Design a Car,” this build has stirred up quite the debate. The page itself is dedicated to celebrating—or perhaps roasting—over-the-top and unusual car modifications, making this Fiat 500 a perfect candidate for the spotlight. But underneath the polarizing exterior lies a story of passion and dedication.

The Fiat 500, after all, is no stranger to attention. First rolling off the production line in 1957 in Turin, this tiny Italian icon quickly captured hearts around the world. Nearly four million units were sold before production of the first generation ended in 1975, and even today, hundreds of thousands still roam Italian roads. Its legacy is one of endurance and charm, a testament to its design and loyal fan base.

The front fascia is strikingly reminiscent of a Porsche, complete with the iconic grille design and headlamps reshaped to mimic those of the legendary 911. (Picture from: HowNotToDesignACar on Facebook)

That’s what makes this transformation even more fascinating. While some purists may cringe at the idea of dressing up a Fiat as a Porsche, others might see it as a tribute—albeit a cheeky one—to both marques. The builder didn’t just slap on a few Porsche badges and call it a day. They reworked the hood, the trunk, the rear bumper, and even sculpted in faux side vents. Every panel seems to have been touched, reshaped, and reimagined with remarkable detail. Say what you will about the outcome, but there’s no denying the sheer effort involved.

Sure, this isn't a turbocharged sports car ready to take on the Nürburgring, and yes, the Porsche resemblance may be more costume party than carbon fiber, but that’s not the point. This car stands as a bold expression of individuality—a testament to the idea that cars are more than just machines; they’re canvases. Not everyone has the guts to turn their vision into reality, especially when that vision blurs the line between adorable and absurd.

The rear of the custom vehicle doesn’t disappoint either, replacing the Fiat 500’s typical rounded charm with a more dramatic continuous taillight setup that’s clearly inspired by modern Porsche models. (Picture from: HowNotToDesignACar on Facebook)

Unfortunately, a video of this unique custom car is not available at the moment. However, here is a featured video showcasing a rare 1957 Fiat 500 as a worthy glimpse into the model’s iconic heritage.

In the end, we’re not here to decide whether it’s beautiful or bizarre, good or odd—we’re simply appreciating it through the lens of creativity and bold design. The rest is up to you. One thing’s certain: this Fiat 500 turned Porsche lookalike is unforgettable, and in the ever-evolving world of car culture, sometimes standing out is the greatest win of all. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOWNOTTODESIGNACAR ON FACEBOOK | TOPGEAR | THEDRIVE | DRIVEMAG ]

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Spatz to Victoria 250: The Evolution of a Microcar Marvel

Microcar Evolution - In the mid-20th century, automotive ingenuity flourished as engineers sought to create unique, compact vehicles for a rapidly evolving market. One such endeavor led to the creation of the Spatz, a small car with an unconventional charm that stood out in its time. This story, however, is not just about a car; it’s about the visionaries behind it, the innovations they introduced, and the challenges they faced.

The 1957 Victoria 250 was a nearly complete redesign of the original, created by renowned Tatra engineer Dr. Hans Ledwinka, featuring a central backbone tube and an upgraded suspension system. (Picture from: BelowTheRadar)

The Spatz began as the brainchild of Egon Brütsch, a forward-thinking engineer and fiberglass enthusiast. His company Egon Brütsch Fahrzeugbau, usually shortened to Brütsch initially developed the three-wheeled Brütsch Mopetta and also the Brütsch Type 200, a lightweight vehicle known for its distinctive egg-shaped design. Brütsch licensed the design to Alzmetall, a machine tool company headed by Harald Friedrich. While the Spatz's aesthetic appeal attracted attention, its engineering left much to be desired, particularly in terms of suspension and stability.

The 1957 Victoria 250 featured design upgrades such as cooling grilles, a redesigned dashboard, and a sturdier windscreen, powered by a 248cc two-stroke engine. (Picture from: Autostories on X)

Determined to address these issues, Friedrich enlisted the expertise of Dr. Hans Ledwinka, a renowned Tatra constructor. Despite being in his seventies, Ledwinka brought fresh ideas to the table, transforming the Spatz into a four-wheeled vehicle with a central backbone tube and an improved suspension system. Hydraulic brakes and a sturdier frame further enhanced its functionality. Retaining the original Fichtel & Sachs engine, the redesigned Spatz featured swing axles and a split-glass windshield, signaling a significant departure from its predecessor.

The 1954 Brütsch Type 200 'Spatz', a three-wheeled creation by Egon Brütsch Fahrzeugbau known for its distinctive egg-shaped design, inspired Dr. Hans Ledwinka's redesigned 4-wheels microcar, later evolving into the Victoria 250. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

The new Spatz debuted at the 1955 Frankfurt Motor Show, drawing attention with its elegant and sporty design. Manufactured in Traunreuth and managed by Victoria Werke, a Nurnberg-based motorcycle firm for sales and service, the car showed potential. However, criticism arose over its high price and modest performance, compounded by a lawsuit from Brütsch over design disputes. In 1956, Friedrich established Bayerische Autowerke GmbH (BAG), producing the car under the name BAG Spatz. By 1957, BAG transferred production rights to Victoria, marking the end of the BAG Spatz's run after 859 units were built.

The 1956 BAG Spatz powered by a familiar 191cc Sachs (Messerschmitt) drivetrain. (Picture from: MicrocarMuseum)

Victoria sought to reinvent the vehicle by addressing its shortcomings. The company introduced a more powerful 248cc two-stroke engine, which increased the car’s top speed and usability. Design upgrades included cooling grilles, a redesigned dashboard, and a heavier windscreen. The Spatz was rechristened the Victoria 250, a near-complete reimagining of the original.

The Burgfalke FB250 consisted of remaining stock from the Victoria 250, sold by Burgfalke Flugzeugbau after production ceased in 1958. (Picture from: MicrocarMuseum)

The Victoria 250 also featured an innovative electric pre-selector transmission, offering five speeds controlled via dash-mounted pushbuttons and a small lever. Released in 1957, the revamped car was met with enthusiasm. However, the microcar market was becoming increasingly saturated, and competition was fierce. Despite its improvements, production ceased in early 1958, with only 729 units built. Remaining inventory was later sold under the name Burgfalke FB250 by Burgfalke Flugzeugbau. | 3twKmr_E0wM |

The Spatz's journey, from its humble beginnings as a three-wheeled curiosity to its refined iteration as the Victoria 250, is a testament to the determination of its creators. Though it faced challenges and ultimately succumbed to market pressures, the Spatz remains a symbol of mid-century innovation, showcasing the blend of creativity and resilience that defined an era. Its legacy lives on, reminding us of a time when bold ideas drove automotive progress, even in the face of adversity. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BELOW THE RADAR | MICROCAR MUSEUM | AUTOSTORIES ON X | WIKIPEDIA ]

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ACV 30: Mini's Bold Prototype That Shaped Its Future

Forgotten Vision - Car manufacturers often navigate a labyrinth of possibilities when revamping their designs, striving to merge tradition with innovation. The journey of the Mini brand offers a fascinating lens through which to view such transformations. Mini, once under Rover's stewardship, saw its legacy evolve dramatically after BMW acquired the company. The result was a series of intriguing experiments, one of which was the ACV 30 – a prototype that has etched its place as a unique chapter in Mini’s history.

The Mini ACV 30 Prototype, designed by a young Adrian van Hooydonk—now Head of BMW Design—embodied a vision to modernize Mini for the 21st century by blending compact utility with sporty aesthetics. (Picture from: BMWBlog)

Back in 1994, Adrian van Hooydonk, then a budding designer and now the Head of BMW Design, drafted the ACV 30 concept. His vision was to modernize Mini for the 21st century, blending compact utility with sporty aesthetics. Despite its boldness, the ACV 30 design was ultimately sidelined in favor of Frank Stephenson’s iteration, which would go on to define the Mini’s rebirth. However, the story of the ACV 30 didn’t end in the design studio. Instead, it was repurposed as a functional prototype, showcasing an alternative trajectory for Mini’s evolution.

The 1997 Mini ACV 30 Concept while sat on display at the Techno Classica 2017, Essen. (Picture from: Perico001 on Flickr)

When unveiled in January 1997, the ACV 30 was more than just a concept; it was a living, breathing vehicle. Initially not intended for public display, the car's debut became a strategic move to reignite interest in Mini’s brand legacy. This was no ordinary concept, as its name – Anniversary Concept Vehicle 30 – commemorated Mini’s historic victories in the Monte Carlo Rally, specifically its 1967 triumph, as well as wins in 1964 and 1965. The ACV 30’s aesthetic reflected this heritage while also hinting at Mini’s future.

The Mini ACV 30 Prototype blended nostalgia and modernity with rounded headlights and a signature grille that honored Mini's iconic past. (Picture from: BMWBlog)

From the outside, the ACV 30 displayed a mix of nostalgia and modernity. Its rounded headlights and signature grille shape nodded to Mini’s iconic past. At the same time, aggressive features like flared fenders and a center-exit exhaust hinted at a more performance-oriented identity. Its profile, surprisingly, bore a resemblance to today’s Minis, proving how elements of experimental designs can influence production models in subtle ways.

The profile of the Mini ACV 30 Prototype surprisingly resembled today’s Minis, showcasing how experimental designs can subtly shape production models. (Picture from: BMWBlog)

Stepping inside the ACV 30 revealed an interior crafted for excitement and performance. Sporty bucket seats with deep bolstering and a prominent shifter immediately conveyed a driver-focused experience. Red accents, matching the roll cage, added a dynamic flair. The dashboard and control cluster cleverly balanced homage to the past with a forward-looking aesthetic, featuring pod-style gauges and tactile switchgear, which differed significantly from the production Mini’s single circular display.

The Mini ACV 30 Prototype featured a driver-focused interior with sporty bucket seats, a prominent shifter, and dynamic red accents matching the roll cage. (Picture from: Mini)

Mechanically, the ACV 30 was a deviation from Mini’s traditional front-engine, front-wheel-drive setup. Beneath its dramatic bodywork lay the underpinnings of an MG F roadster, complete with a mid-mounted 1.8-liter engine. This configuration was far from Mini’s rally roots but showcased BMW’s willingness to experiment. It also highlighted the versatility of the brand’s identity, allowing for playful reinterpretations of what a Mini could be.

The Mini ACV 30 Prototype  even had its moment in the spotlight, leading a parade lap at the 1997 Monte Carlo Rally. (Picture from: BMWBlog)

The ACV 30 even had its moment in the spotlight, leading a parade lap at the 1997 Monte Carlo Rally. This symbolic act bridged Mini’s celebrated past with its potential future, turning the prototype into a rolling tribute to the brand’s adventurous spirit. Even though the ACV 30 never made it to production, it remains an enduring symbol of creativity and bold design thinking.

The Mini ACV 30 Prototype stands as a testament to the dynamic interplay between legacy and reinvention in automotive design. (Picture from: Pinterest)

Today, the Mini ACV 30 stands as a testament to the dynamic interplay between legacy and reinvention in automotive design. Its story underscores how even shelved concepts can leave an indelible mark, influencing future models and captivating enthusiasts. The ACV 30 may have been a side note in Mini’s storied history, but it continues to inspire curiosity and admiration among car lovers around the world.

As we reflect on the ACV 30, we are reminded that the automotive world thrives on experimentation and vision. While not every idea reaches the assembly line, each contributes to the rich tapestry of innovation that defines the industry. For Mini, the ACV 30 wasn’t just a concept—it was a celebration of its past and a bold exploration of what could have been. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MINI | BMWBLOG | ARONLINE ]

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Schubert Prototyp 350cc: Rare East German Microcar Lost to Time

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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AMC Amitron: The Revolutionary EV Ahead of Its Time

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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One-of-a-Kind Fiat 500 D Coupè Built by Varis Vegni

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.

For those looking not just for a car, but for a story—something lovingly crafted, deeply personal, and undeniably Italian—this Fiat 500 D Coupè is more than rare. It’s truly one of a kind. Curious to see more unique custom Topolinos? *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CATAWIKI | RETROMANIA4EVER ON X | QUATROMANIA.IT | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS ON FACEBOOK | WORLD CARS FROM THE 1930S TO 1980S ON FACEBOOK | NETCLASSIC.IT | PERICO001 ON FLICKR | MSNEWS.RO | CLASSICDRIVER | WEIRDWHEELS ON REDDIT | PINTEREST CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | NET CLASSIC ON FACEBOOK ]

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Meet the Subaru Tortoise: A One-of-a-Kind 1968 Sci-Fi Microcar

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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