Rusty Wrench's BMW R18: A Top Gun Tribute on Two Wheels

~Revving Up the Skies~ Designing a motorcycle with a movie-themed twist can be a challenging endeavor. Aligning the end result with a cinematic concept while maintaining functionality and style can often feel like swimming against the current. 

The BMW R18 Maverick custom built by Rusty Wrench drawing inspiration from the Hollywood blockbuster, "Top Gun: Maverick." (Picture from: BikeExif)

However, Rusty Wrench Motorcycles, a Portuguese modification house, has managed to pull off this daring feat brilliantly. Their masterpiece? A stunning transformation of a custom-built motorcycle called BMW R18 'Maverick', drawing inspiration from the Hollywood blockbuster "Top Gun: Maverick".

As quoted from BikeExif, the genesis of this remarkable project can be traced back to BMW Motorrad Portugal's local modification contest. The winning entrants were not only rewarded but also given the opportunity to bring their vision to life and represent the country at the prestigious BMW International R18 Customizing Championship.

Rusty Wrench meticulously handcrafted both the frame and the entire bodywork, giving the front section the distinctive appearance of a jet aircraft's nacelle. (Picture from: BikeExif)

Rusty Wrench Motorcycles, with their eyes set on aviation-themed aesthetics, selected "Top Gun: Maverick" as their muse. This choice paid off handsomely as they clinched victory in the competition with their innovative design.

The front end of the motorcycle was ingeniously designed to resemble the nacelle of a jet aircraft, featuring a KTM motorbike headlamp that seamlessly integrates with covers concealing the front suspension. (Picture from: BikeExif)

The journey began by stripping the BMW R18 down to its bare frame, removing nearly all of its bodywork, and leaving only the engine and suspension intact. Then, with meticulous craftsmanship, they reconstructed the entire frame and bodywork from scratch.

The BMW R18 'Maverick' features an Alcantara seat shell with eye-catching eyelets that serve both style and function. (Picture from: BikeExif)

The front end of the motorcycle was ingeniously designed to resemble the nacelle of a jet aircraft, featuring a KTM motorbike headlamp that seamlessly integrates with covers concealing the front suspension. The lower section boasts a fuselage-inspired cover, complete with an air scoop at the front and rows of dome-shaped fasteners on each side, emphasizing the aviation theme.

To complete the masterpiece, custom CNC machined badges commemorating BMW Motorrad's 100th anniversary were meticulously affixed, while 'Maverick' logos replaced the original engine emblems. (Picture from: BikeExif)

The cruiser-style fuel tank was discarded and replaced with one sporting a knee curve, reminiscent of the classic Yamaha XJR, giving the motorcycle a front-heavy appearance that gracefully tapers towards the tail. The subframe, cleverly hidden by being bolted directly to the center, features an Alcantara seat shell with eye-catching eyelets that serve both style and function.

Aluminum exhausts were fabricated, featuring end caps reminiscent of afterburners found on fighter jets. (Picture from: BikeExif)

While the R18's suspension remained untouched, Rusty Wrench opted for a wheel upgrade, swapping the rims for a set of 21-inch front and 18-inch rear alloys from BMW's Roland Sands collection. Dedicated foot controls were also added, positioned higher and further back to accommodate the increased seat height.

Rusty Wrench crafted new stainless steel headers, routing them up and over the BMW's massive exhaust pipes and beneath the redesigned tail section. (Picture from: BikeExif)

The one-piece seat upholstery complements the motorcycle's luxurious paint job, predominantly black with silver accents and subtle blue stripes. Additional styling details include a BMW x Roland Sands engine cover and taillights that mimic jet tail fins.

A particularly striking visual element is the exhaust system. Rusty Wrench crafted new stainless steel headers, routing them up and over the BMW's massive exhaust pipes and beneath the redesigned tail section. Aluminum exhausts were fabricated, featuring end caps reminiscent of afterburners found on fighter jets.

Rusty Wrench crafted new stainless steel headers, routing them up and over the BMW's massive exhaust pipes and beneath the redesigned tail section. (Picture from: BikeExif)

The handlebars, mounted on Roland Sands risers and equipped with Motogadget bar-ends, provide a comfortable yet stylish riding position. To preserve the R18's modern wiring, Rusty Wrench retained the OEM speedometer. Beyond the movie and aviation influences, the R18 by Rusty Wrench also exhibits a deep appreciation for luxury sports cars.

To add the finishing touches, custom CNC machined badges were meticulously installed. These emblems, celebrating BMW Motorrad's 100th anniversary, adorn each side of the tank, while the engine emblems were replaced with a pair of 'Maverick' logos.

What sets the R18 by Rusty Wrench apart from most 'themed' motorcycles is its seamless and cohesive design. Even without the Top Gun-inspired details, it remains visually appealing. Moreover, the revised ergonomics promise an even more enjoyable riding experience on the R18. Rusty Wrench Motorcycles has indeed crafted a masterpiece that transcends cinematic inspiration, delivering a motorcycle that is as breathtaking as it is functional.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops.... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BMW MOTORRAD PORTUGAL | RUSTYWRENCH | BIKEEXIF ]

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Ford's Ambitious Hypercar: The Unforgettable Ford GT90

~Special ONES~ Ford is a name synonymous with excellence in the automotive world, renowned for producing high-quality vehicles that have often emerged victorious in various motorsport championships. Among its legendary creations, the Ford GT40 stands tall as a symbol of dominance in endurance racing during the 1960s. In the spirit of innovation and performance, Ford conceived a remarkable successor known as the Ford GT90.

The magnificent creation of the Ford GT90 earned the title of "world's mightiest supercar" due to its cutting-edge technology and unmatched capabilities of the time. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

In January 1995, at the prestigious Detroit Auto Show, Ford unveiled a groundbreaking concept car, the Ford GT90. This magnificent creation earned the title of "world's mightiest supercar" due to its cutting-edge technology and unmatched capabilities of the time.

The Ford GT90 was not merely a concept car; it was envisioned as the spiritual heir to the iconic Ford GT40. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The Ford GT90 was not merely a concept car; it was envisioned as the spiritual heir to the iconic Ford GT40. Beyond this, it served as a crucible for testing advanced technology, technical and design concepts, and driver-centric features that would eventually find their way into future Ford models.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of the Ford GT90 was its pioneering use of the "New Edge" design concept, a design philosophy that would later grace subsequent Ford classics like the Ford Focus, Mustang, and Falcon, further solidifying its significance in Ford's history.

The Ford GT90 dazzled in a striking bright white hue, featured with a forward-positioned cabin with a short hood, complemented by a lengthy 2,946 mm wheelbase. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The creation of the Ford GT90 was an extraordinary feat achieved by a small, specialized group within Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) in just six months. This brief timeframe prompted the team to utilize certain components from Jaguar, a fellow member of the Ford family at the time. This collaboration was not only expedient but also cost-effective, although the Ford GT90 still came with a price tag of around 3 million US Dollars.

In terms of aesthetics, the Ford GT90 dazzled in a striking bright white hue. Staying true to the "New Edge" design philosophy, the car featured a forward-positioned cabin with a short hood, complemented by a lengthy 2,946 mm wheelbase. This design language gave the Ford GT90 an unmistakably futuristic and high-tech appearance.

The Ford GT90 cabin dominated with a vibrant bright blue theme, tastefully blending leather and suede, paired with an aluminum linkage connected to the center console, exuded a sporty and elegant vibe. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The body panels of the Ford GT90 were crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, while the aluminum monocoque chassis took on a honeycomb structure. Adding to the car's sophistication, the doors were electronically operated, and the interior boasted surprising spaciousness, a departure from the typically cramped cabins found in 1990s supercars.

Inside the Ford GT90, a vibrant bright blue theme dominated, tastefully blending leather and suede. The silver open-gated shifter, paired with an aluminum linkage connected to the center console, exuded a sporty and elegant vibe. The carbon fiber center console, adorned with silver accents, further elevated the interior's appeal. A custom instrument panel, strategically positioned in front of the steering wheel and on the driver's door, contributed to the overall allure, with a yellow triangular detail on the steering wheel providing a delightful finishing touch.

The Ford GT90 powered by a monstrous 6,000cc 12-cylinder V12 engine, a fusion of two Lincoln V8 engines, coupled with four Garrett Systems T2 turbo units. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

Performance was where the Ford GT90 truly shone. Under the hood, it housed a monstrous 6,000cc 12-cylinder V12 engine, a fusion of two Lincoln V8 engines. Taking power to the next level, this V12 powerhouse was augmented by four Garrett Systems T2 turbo units, resulting in an astonishing 720 ponies and a torque of 895 Nm.

All this immense power was channeled to the rear wheels, thanks to the Ford GT90's MR (Mid Engine, Rear Wheel Drive) layout. The rear-wheel drive system was managed by the FFD-Ricardo five-speed manual transmission gearbox, sourced from the Jaguar XJ220. The outcome? A jaw-dropping top speed of 407 km/h and the ability to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.1 seconds. To handle such power, the Ford GT90 was equipped with a double wishbone suspension, borrowed once again from the Jaguar XJ220, renowned for its exceptional high-speed handling.

Despite the Ford GT90's awe-inspiring concept and its suitability as a successor to the Ford GT40, Ford made a surprising decision not to put it into production. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

Despite the Ford GT90's awe-inspiring concept and its suitability as a successor to the Ford GT40, Ford made a surprising decision not to put it into production. Instead, they introduced the Ford GT in 2004 as the true successor to the Ford GT40.

As for the Ford GT90, there exists only one in the entire world, and its fate remains shrouded in mystery. In 2009, the automotive world caught a glimpse of it once more when the Ford GT90 made a rare appearance at an RM Auction event, leaving car enthusiasts and collectors in awe of its legendary status.

In the annals of automotive history, the Ford GT90 remains a testament to Ford's relentless pursuit of innovation and performance. Though it never graced the open road as a production vehicle, its legacy endures, a symbol of what could have been—an extraordinary hypercar that pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering and design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HEMMINGS | CONCEPTCARZ | ROAD&TRACK | DRIVINGLINE | WIKIPEDIA ]

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Porsche 962 Derek Bell Signature Edition: The Hidden Legend

~Racing LEGEND~ When we think of Porsche, our minds often conjure images of sleek and powerful sports cars like the 911 or the Cayman. Yet, amidst the impressive lineup of Porsche models, there exists a hidden gem, known to only a select few in the automotive world. Enter the Porsche 962 Derek Bell Signature Edition, a legend in the annals of automotive history with debuting in 1984 and gracefully retiring in the early '90s. 

The Porsche 962 Derek Bell Signature Edition bears the name of a true legend Derek Bell with his illustrious career includes five Le Mans victories, cementing his status as one of the greatest endurance racers of all time. (Picture from: TopGear)

This remarkable sports car known has produced only 91 units, holds a unique place in the hearts of true enthusiasts. Of course, there are a few converted-for-the-road Porsche 962s, but this particular one was supposed to kick-start a run of Derek Bell limited editions. Only this one exists, and it's quite a bit of kit. 

As you can see its elongated rear, an ode to its racing heritage, captures the attention of pedestrians and fellow motorists alike while it appeared in Dallas back in 2015. The driver, seemingly aware of the allure this car exudes, makes a deliberate stop, inviting a crowd of onlookers to gather around. It's a moment frozen in time, where the world pauses to admire automotive excellence.

Porsche 962 amaze a crowd in Dallas back in 2015. (Picture from: Liputan6)

As the 962 comes to a halt, its doors and hood swing open, revealing the meticulously crafted interior and the beating heart beneath the hood. Spectators seize this golden opportunity to capture every detail, from the luxurious interior to the high-performance engine that powers this masterpiece.

As reported by Liputan 6, a significant transformation under the hood of the Porsche 962 Derek Bell Signature Edition. The original 2.8-liter racing engine, a testament to its era, has been replaced with a formidable twin-turbo 3.6-liter engine. This powerhouse generates a remarkable 580 horsepower and 546 lb-ft of torque, catapulting the 962 into a new realm of performance.

Porsche 962 amaze a crowd in Dallas back in 2015. (Picture from: Liputan6)

The Porsche 962 bears the name of a true legend in motorsports, Derek Bell with his illustrious career includes five Le Mans championship victories, cementing his status as one of the greatest endurance racers of all time. It is fitting that a car of this caliber should carry his name, paying homage to the man whose skill and determination shaped the racing world.

Porsche 962 Derek Bell Signature Edition. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/1I833wv)

While the Porsche 962 Derek Bell Signature Edition is not officially for sale, speculation abounds regarding its potential value. Enthusiasts and experts alike estimate that this automotive masterpiece could fetch a staggering price tag of up to $2 million. Such a valuation underscores the rarity and desirability of this iconic model, making it a coveted piece of automotive history.

In conclusion, the Porsche 962 Derek Bell Signature Edition is a true marvel in the world of sports cars. Its timeless design, coupled with its powerful twin-turbo engine, ensures that it remains a sought-after gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Derek Bell's legacy lives on through this remarkable vehicle, a symbol of endurance and excellence on the racetrack. While its official price may be a mystery, its worth in the hearts of automotive connoisseurs is beyond measure. *** [EKA [13052015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BOLDRIDE | TOPGEAR | GTPLANET ]

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BFGoodrich's Forgotten Venture into the Automotive World

~Unique ONES~ When World War II came to an end in 1945, Americans were eager to embrace their love affair with cars once more. Surprisingly, one American tire manufacturer, B.F. Goodrich, decided to take a unique step into the automotive world during this time by introducing its very own prototype automobile.

This Goodrich Willys Saloon might have played a pivotal role in promoting Goodrich's groundbreaking development in 1947. (Picture from: MacsMotorCityGarage)

The details surrounding this one-of-a-kind vehicle may be scarce, but we'll shed light on what we do know. Much of our information comes from the late Robert C. Lichty, a distinguished automobile historian and writer who readily identified the car when presented with a photograph. It appears that around 1946, B.F. Goodrich Co. undertook the construction of this prototype car within its Akron, Ohio fabrication facilities.

However, it's essential to note that BFGoodrich, now a division of Michelin since 1990, had no intentions of competing directly with Detroit's auto manufacturers, which were their primary clientele. Instead, the purpose behind this endeavor was to craft a distinctive demonstration tool to showcase its extensive catalog of automotive components and accessories.

This is the 1941-42 Willys Americar that served as the donor vehicle for the 1946 B.F. Goodrich Saloon. (Picture from: BeverlyHillsCarClub)

Taking a closer look at the side profile of this remarkable car reveals significant insights into its origin. The fundamental body shell is evidently borrowed from a 1941-42 Willys Americar four-door sedan, and it's possible that the chassis and drivetrain were also sourced from the same vehicle, although this remains unconfirmed. Nevertheless, the Willys origins have been artfully concealed with entirely new sheet metal extending forward from the cowl and a lengthened rear deck, creating a more elongated and striking appearance.

Furthermore, the front fenders have been extended rearward into the doors, aligning with the popular styling trends of that era. The car's bumpers, grille, and lamps have been meticulously redesigned, and a prominent bright-metal emblem featuring the letter 'G' graces the front of the hood. To the discerning eye, the exterior design appears to be the work of a seasoned automotive stylist.

The 1946 Goodrich Saloon clearly adopts its basic body shell from the 1941-42 Willys Americar four-door sedan, as seen here. (Picture from: BeverlyHillsCarClub)

According to Bob Lichty, several components of this automobile bore the B.F. Goodrich signature, including the tires, wheels, battery, seat covers, and rubber goods. Notably, this vehicle might have played a pivotal role in promoting Goodrich's groundbreaking development in 1947—tubeless tires. The post-war period witnessed a surge in the demand for auto parts and accessories due to the shortage of new cars, making it an opportune time for such marketing efforts.

B.F. Goodrich Co. undertook the construction of its saloon prototype within its Akron, Ohio fabrication facilities in 1946. (Picture from: MacsMotorCityGarage)

Moreover, the suspension system reportedly incorporated Goodrich's torsilastic components, which were marketed under the Velvet-Ride name. While bonded-rubber suspension systems didn't gain popularity in passenger cars, they found widespread use in buses and recreational vehicles. Interestingly, Preston Tucker's Tucker 48 also employed torsilastic suspension elements, sourced from multiple suppliers.

Notice the remarkable distinction between the Goodrich Saloon prototype and its donor vehicle, evident in the design of the front grille and primary headlights. (Picture from: MacsMotorCityGarage)

According to another reputable historian, Terry Boyce, the powertrain of this unique vehicle featured a Nash six-cylinder engine. The fate of B.F. Goodrich's prototype-demonstrator remains a mystery to us. Like many one-off vehicles created for marketing and promotional purposes, it seems to have vanished without a trace once its commercial duties were fulfilled, leaving behind only a handful of photographs as evidence of its existence.

In conclusion, B.F. Goodrich's foray into the world of automobiles serves as a fascinating chapter in automotive history. While their venture may have been short-lived, the innovative spirit and commitment to quality that defined BFGoodrich's tire manufacturing legacy were clearly evident in their ambitious foray into automobile production. Today, this forgotten prototype stands as a testament to the tire manufacturer's dedication to pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the world of automotive engineering. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MACSMOTORCITYGARAGE | AUTOPUZZLES | BEVERLYHILLSCARCLUB ]

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The Timeless Beauty of the Iso Grifo: A Legend Reimagined

~Only ONE~ In our perspective, the Iso Grifo A3/L (L for Lusso) represents a pinnacle of Italian sports car design, brought to life by the visionary Renzo Rivolta as a successor to his Iso Rivolta IR 300. The body of this masterpiece was crafted by none other than the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro at Bertone, while the mechanical genius Giotto Bizzarrini lent his expertise to the powertrain. Bizzarrini, foreseeing a demand for a high-performance racing variant of the Grifo, conceived the A3/C (C for Corsa), featuring a dramatically modified alloy body.

The Iso Grifo A3/L (L for Lusso) represents a pinnacle of Italian sports car design, brought to life by the visionary Renzo Rivolta as a successor to his Iso Rivolta IR 300. (Picture from: Conceptcarz)

This extraordinary creation earned the moniker of the "Improved GTO" due to Bizzarrini's prior involvement as the designer of the iconic Ferrari 250 GTO during his tenure at Ferrari. One of the most noteworthy innovations was the relocation of the engine, shifted about 40 centimeters (16 inches) rearward, positioning the A3/C among the pioneering front-mid-engined cars in automotive history. To fine-tune the engine's timing, a portion of the dashboard was meticulously removed. Both the 250 GTO and Iso Grifo originally rolled out of the factory equipped with Pirelli Cinturato 205VR15 tires (CN72).

The Iso Grifo A3/L represents a pinnacle of Italian sports car design, brought to life by the visionary Renzo Rivolta as a successor to his Iso Rivolta IR 300. (Picture from: Conceptcarz)

The chassis #001, the prototype showcased on the Bertone stand, stands as a unique masterpiece, distinguished by subtle variations from subsequent production models. Featuring a lower roofline and beltline, its coachwork exudes an even more pronounced sporty allure than its successors. Remarkable details such as a stainless steel wraparound roof band set it apart. Inside, the cabin embraces luxury with bespoke elements including a special shifter and steering wheel, adding to its exclusivity.

The Iso Grifo A3/L (L for Lusso) unveiled at the 1964 Turin Auto Show in Bertone booth. (Picture from: SportscarMarket)

In that same year, Bertone unveiled the Grifo A3/L Prototype at the Turin Auto Show, while Iso presented the competition-oriented version, the Iso Grifo A3/C, albeit partially unfinished. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Despite necessary design modifications to the prototype, Iso concentrated its efforts on preparing the Grifo A3/L for production. A mild facelift ensued, slightly softening its aggressive demeanor, transforming it into perhaps the most elegantly styled Gran Turismo (GT) supercar ever to grace the roads.

The Iso Grifo A3/L (L for Lusso) represents a pinnacle of Italian sports car design, brought to life by the visionary Renzo Rivolta as a successor to his Iso Rivolta IR 300. (Picture from: SportscarMarket)

This road-going Iso Grifo GL adopted the potent yet reliable Chevrolet small-block 327 Corvette V8 engine (5.4-liter) with power outputs ranging from 300 to 350 horsepower, mated to a Borg-Warner 4-speed toploader transmission. These engines were imported from the United States but underwent meticulous disassembly and blueprinting before installation, a practice reminiscent of the Iso Rivolta IR 300.

With over 400 horsepower and a weight of under 2,200 pounds, this remarkable vehicle achieved speeds exceeding 171 mph, setting the stage for an era of high-performance supercars. As Renzo Rivolta focused on perfecting the A3/L, tensions arose due to Giotto's efforts to promote the A3/C. This division resulted in the production of the Grifo GL at Bresso and the A3/C at Piero Drogo's Sports Cars of Modena, under Giotto's rigorous supervision.

The Iso Grifo A3/L (L for Lusso) powered by a Chevrolet small-block 327 Corvette V8 engine (5.4-liter) with power outputs ranging from 300 to 350 horsepower. (Picture from: SportscarMarket)

In 1964, the prototype Grifo A3/C made its presence felt at Le Mans, piloted by Edgar Berney and Pierre Noblet. The car performed admirably until brake issues necessitated a lengthy pit stop. Despite this setback, the car soldiered on, ultimately finishing in 14th place—a commendable achievement for a brand-new entrant. Unfortunately, a disagreement between Renzo and Bizzarrini brought the partnership to an end, halting the production of the Bizzarrini Grifo A3/C after just 22 units.

The Iso Grifo A3/L prototype showcased on the Bertone stand, stands as a unique masterpiece, distinguished by subtle variations from subsequent production models. (Picture from: SportscarMarket)

Finally, in 1965, Giotto Bizzarrini and Renzo Rivolta parted ways, marking the commencement of separate production lines for the road-going Grifo GL and the competition-focused Bizzarrini A3/C. Giotto continued to refine his A3/C, ultimately leading to the creation of the Bizzarrini 5300 Stradas and Corsas. From this point onward, the "Grifo" name gradually faded from association with Bizzarrini.

The production version of the car boasted 390 horsepower and a first-gear sprint of 68 mph. Additionally, Renzo Rivolta unveiled a one-off Grifo A3/L Spyder at the Geneva Auto Show. Production of the Iso Grifo GL officially commenced in 1965, and by October 1966, the first Grifo with a Targa Top, car #97, was unveiled in Turin.

After its showcase in Turin, the prototype embarked on a tour of auto shows across Europe, culminating in its appearance at the 1964 New York Auto Show before returning to the factory for further development. In the early 1970s, the Grifo found its way to the United States through an actor's import, eventually falling into the hands of renowned collector Ron Kellogg in Southern California. Subsequently, it changed hands again in Yucca Valley, California, where the body underwent an orange repaint, and the nose was replaced with one from a standard production Grifo. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GOODING.CO | CONCEPTCARZ | RMW.LV | RUOTEVECCHIE.ORG | SPORTSCARMARKET ]

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Škoda Winnetou: The Prototype That Stole the Show but Never Hit the Road

~Remained in the Dream~ In the world of Czech automotive history, Škoda's convertibles, the Škoda 450 and later the Felicia, were celebrated for their beauty and allure. They not only made waves in the domestic Czech market but also drew attention abroad. However, with the production of the Felicia coming to an end in 1964, it marked the conclusion of an era for open-top Mladá Boleslav brand cars. Though there were plans to resurrect the convertible spirit, the Škoda Winnetou, it remained a dream unfulfilled.

The Škoda Winnetou roadster prototype was conceived in the 1960s by Škoda's Swiss importers, A.P. Glättli AG, based near Zurich in Dietlikon. (Picture from: Auto.cz)

Surprisingly, the birth of this exotic car in Mladá Boleslav during the socialist era was not a product of Škoda's own designers. Instead, it was conceived in the 1960s by its Swiss importers, A.P. Glättli AG, based near Zurich in Dietlikon. Their vision was to craft a stylish roadster based on an existing Škoda model and offer it to customers in Western Europe at an attractive price point.

The Škoda Winnetou's vision was to craft a stylish roadster based on an existing Škoda model and offer it to customers in Western Europe at an attractive price point. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

In 1967, the prototype of a sporty convertible, bearing the curious name Škoda Winnetou, named after the "Apache Chief" from Karl May's books. This roadster made its global debut in March 1967 at the Geneva Motor Show, where it immediately captured the spotlight. Even today, its distinctive design continues to captivate enthusiasts. This two-seater roadster came together rather swiftly and, as per available information, underwent assembly in Aachen, Germany by Hubert Souren KG, where the laminate body designed by American Bill Devin was also produced.

The Škoda Winnetou roadster prototype (no.3 from the left) made its global debut in March 1967 at the Geneva Motor Show, where it immediately captured the spotlight. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

The Škoda Winnetou featured a space frame crafted from steel profiles, equipped with axles borrowed from the popular Škoda 1000 MBX and coupled with components from Volkswagen. Nestled at the rear, the engine powered the rear wheels. Measuring a mere 3,815 millimeters in length, 1,595 millimeters in width, and, with the emergency canvas roof included, 1,300 millimeters in height, it epitomized compactness.

The Škoda Winnetou featured a space frame crafted from steel profiles, equipped with axles borrowed from the popular Škoda 1000 MBX and coupled with components from Volkswagen. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

Stepping inside, the cabin offered accommodations for just two passengers, embodying simplicity and functionality. Under the sloping front hood, only a toolkit and a battery found their place, while the lone "luggage" compartment was inconveniently positioned at the rear, right alongside the engine in the engine compartment.

The Škoda Winnetou measuring a mere 3,815 millimeters in length, 1,595 millimeters in width, and, with the emergency canvas roof included, 1,300 millimeters in height, it epitomized compactness. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

The powertrain concealed beneath the Winnetou's hood did not pack a punch. The 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine, borrowed also from the Škoda 1000 MBX, churned out a modest output of around fifty horsepower. This performance was far from impressive, especially for a car weighing just under 600 kilograms. 

In front of the driver was a three-spoke steering wheel with a wooden wreath, a speedometer calibrated to an even more optimistic 180 km/h, a coolant temperature gauge and a fuel gauge located on the left. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

When the Winnetou underwent performance testing in Mladá Boleslav to determine its fate, it fell far short of expectations. Rather than achieving the claimed top speed of 160 km/h, the car reached a mere 126 km/h during testing. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h was a painstakingly slow process, taking 30.2 seconds. The amalgamation of these performance setbacks, coupled with the inherent impracticality of the design and a relatively high price by Škoda's standards, sealed the fate of the Winnetou. 

The Škoda Winnetou roadster prototype powered by a rear-mounted 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine, taken from the Škoda 1000 MBX, churned out a modest output of around 50 hp. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

The Winnetou's primary allure was its price, which was anticipated to remain under 7,900 Swiss francs. This undercut the competition's pricing across Europe at the time. However, even with this compelling pricing strategy, the Winnetou failed to secure a green light for production. It remained a prototype and never transitioned into production. The sole existing prototype is rumored to have ended up in the possession of a private collector. Apologies, the following video pertains to the Felicia roadster, Škoda Winnetou's predecessor, not the Winnetou itself.

In hindsight, the Škoda Winnetou remains a captivating footnote in automotive history, symbolizing a unique chapter in the brand's journey. While it may never have dominated the roads, it continues to kindle the imaginations of automotive enthusiasts worldwide, commemorating 56 years since its debut back in the 1967. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTO.CZ | DENIK.CZ | AUTOREVUE.CZ | ALLCARINDEX | WIKIPEDIA ]

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