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Showing posts with label One-Off. Show all posts
Showing posts with label One-Off. Show all posts

Thursday, October 24, 2024

Fully Electric Karmann-Ghia with Aztec 7 Kit Car

Revolutionary ONES - In the world of automotive design, some creations go beyond performance, captivating enthusiasts with their distinct and daring looks. One such standout is the Aztec 7, a rare beauty crafted by Fiberfab that never fails to draw attention. Even more astonishing is that this particular Aztec 7 is based on a 1971 Karmann Ghia, which has been transformed into an electric vehicle. Considering that most vehicles from this era were still reliant on petrol engines, this electric conversion feels nothing short of revolutionary.
This particular Aztec 7 is based on a 1971 Karmann Ghia, which has been transformed into an electric vehicle. (Picture from: MotoeXotica)
This car represents an incredible fusion of innovation and design. It's a one-of-a-kind custom 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, re-bodied with the sleek and aerodynamic gull-wing design of a Fiberfab Aztec 7. What makes this car even more remarkable is its 100% electric power, a concept that was far ahead of its time. Built and developed by Roque Haines, an engineer from NASA's Johnson Space Center, this masterpiece was discovered online, listed back in 2016 as part of the MotoeXotica Classic Cars collection that would soon go up for auction.
It's a one-of-a-kind custom 1971 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, re-bodied with the sleek and aerodynamic gull-wing design of a Fiberfab Aztec 7. (Picture from: MotoeXotica)
The vehicle is the final result and a tested prototype of Roque Haines’ Electric Aztec 7 Project, which he completed while working at the Johnson Space Center. The foundation of this car lies in the chassis of a 1971 Karmann Ghia, which was stripped down entirely to make way for the electric conversion and the new body. To ensure everything worked perfectly, new suspension components, shocks, coils, and linkages were added. The gearbox was also adjusted to handle the unique challenges of this electric conversion, along with the installation of disc brakes at both the front and rear to ensure safe and efficient braking.
The foundation of this car lies in the chassis of a 1971 Karmann Ghia, which was stripped down entirely to make way for the electric conversion and the new body. (Picture from: MotoeXotica)
One notable feature is the clutchless motor interface, designed to work seamlessly with the original 4-speed transaxle transmission. The car's wiring was also completely overhauled, with a new 12V system put in place. LED lights were installed for both the signals and taillights, while new overhead control switches added a futuristic touch to the interior. Low-profile performance tires paired with 19″ Lamborghini-style alloy rims not only enhance the car's visual appeal but also provide a smooth, stable ride. For additional comfort, a 120V DC motor powers an air conditioning system. This is complemented by modern tech such as a rear-view camera displayed on a dash-mounted LCD monitor, as well as an impressive CD/MP3/iPod sound system to keep the driver entertained.
The sleek exterior is complemented by original and custom trim, while the interior's black fiberglass racing seats with red and black covers enhance the car's aggressive look without showing significant wear. (Picture from: Strange-Cars)
The electric power for this unique ride is generated by a pack of 15 Trojan T-875 8V lead-acid batteries, producing a total of 120V. This system feeds into a 128V traction pack, which powers a 19hp Advanced Wound DC motor. Alongside a Curtis 72 120V 400A controller, an onboard Zivan NG3 charger, and an Elcon DC converter, the car’s electrical setup is both powerful and efficient. An additional independent 12V battery was incorporated to manage the accessories, separating the main battery pack from the other electrical systems.
The electric power for this unique ride is generated by a pack of 15 Trojan T-875 8V lead-acid batteries, producing a total of 120V. (Picture from: Strange-Cars)
One of the most interesting aspects of this build is the strategic placement of the batteries. To maximize safety and efficiency, all the batteries are located outside of the Dynamat-insulated cabin. A steel roll bar surrounds the rear battery pack, doubling as a rear bumper for added protection. The original Fiberfab body, inspired by the Bertone-designed Alfa Romeo Carabo concept, was heavily modified for this project.
The car's body was redesigned to allow easier access to the batteries and electric components. (Picture from: MotoeXotica)
In fact, these modifications weren't just for aesthetics but also practicality. The body was redesigned to allow easier access to the batteries and electric components. The hood was converted into a single piece that pivots open toward the front, while the rear section folds back over the wheels for better access to the rear battery and motor components.
It featured low-profile performance tires and 19″ Lamborghini-style alloy rims that enhance the car's visual appeal while ensuring a smooth, stable ride. (Picture from: MotoeXotica)
This car's deep Satin Black paint enhances its striking appearance, with only minor imperfections visible under close inspection. The trim, both original and custom, complements the sleek exterior, while the interior mirrors the same stealthy vibe. Black fiberglass racing seats, paired with red and black seat covers, add to the car's aggressive look without showing signs of significant wear.
To maximize safety and efficiency, the batteries are placed outside the Dynamat-insulated cabin, with a steel roll bar encircling the rear battery pack to also serve as a rear bumper. (Picture from: MotoeXotica)
The attention to detail continues inside, where both door panels and the padded dashboard contribute to the overall polished design. The driver feels as though they are seated in a high-tech cockpit, with overhead buttons and easily accessible controls making the driving experience as enjoyable as it is unique. Not only does this electric Aztec 7 make a bold environmental statement, but it also delivers an exhilarating driving experience. | LZYnqPnFrrM |
In the world of custom electric cars, this Electro-Ghia stands out as a testament to ingenuity and forward-thinking. It bridges the gap between classic automotive design and modern technology, proving that sustainability can go hand in hand with style and performance. Recently, the car, located in Fenton, St. Louis, was sold for $8,900, marking another chapter in its unique journey. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AZTEC7 | FIBERCLASSICS.ORG | MOTOEXOTICA | STRANGE-CARS | CLASSICDIGEST ]
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Wednesday, October 23, 2024

NSU Ro 80 2 Porte: Pininfarina's Rare Futuristic Masterpiece

ONE-OFF - Cars have always been more than just a mode of transportation. For some, they represent innovation, creativity, and a deep history that is often intertwined with technological advancement. Among the many unique cars that have graced automotive history, there is one that stands out not just for its design but also for the story that surrounds it. This particular car, a one-of-a-kind NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2, is a true example of automotive art that blends imagination with reality.
This one-of-a-kind NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2, designed by Paolo Martin of Pininfarina, seamlessly blends imaginative design with innovative engineering and safety. (Picture from: Madle.org)
The story of the NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2 starts with its appearance in the early 1970s. Designed by Paolo Martin for the renowned Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina, It featured safety features, like shock-absorbing bumpers, and extra strengthened doors, to prevent injuries, caused by side-impacts. Elastic bumpers, without chrome gives the car a modern look, even over 50 years after the car was presented at the 1971 Turin Motor Show and later at the 1972 Brussels Motor Show. What made this car stand out was not just its sleek design but the fact that it was based on the NSU Ro 80, a car known for its innovative rotary engine. This engine, developed by NSU, represented cutting-edge technology at the time, emphasizing performance and efficiency in a way that few cars had before.
The NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2 was based on the NSU Ro 80, a car known for its innovative rotary engine, and debuted at the 1971 Turin Motor Show. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
Pininfarina took the basic structure of the NSU Ro 80 and transformed it into something extraordinary. The NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2 was not just a simple redesign; it was a bold statement. With its aerodynamic exterior, suicide doors, and retractable roof, this car was designed to turn heads. Its design allowed for maximum airflow and ventilation through large air intakes strategically placed along the windshield and sides of the roof. What made it even more special was that much of the roof could be opened, giving the driver and passengers an almost convertible-like experience, while still maintaining practicality with its trunk space intact.
The NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2 featured safety features, like shock-absorbing bumpers, and extra strengthened doors, to prevent injuries, caused by side-impacts. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
Inside, the NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2 was just as impressive. Pininfarina placed a heavy emphasis on ergonomics, creating an interior that was not only stylish but also incredibly functional. The dashboard was designed with the driver in mind, placing all the necessary instruments directly in front of them for easy access and visibility. Safety was also a major focus, with extensive padding used throughout the interior to protect passengers in the event of a collision. Adjustable visors were added to reduce glare from sunlight, another thoughtful feature that highlighted the attention to detail that went into this car's design.
The NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2 design allowed for maximum airflow and ventilation through large air intakes strategically placed along the windshield and sides of the roof. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
The NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2 wasn’t just a car built for show, though it certainly had its share of appearances. After its debut at the motor shows, it continued to captivate audiences. It gained significant attention in the press, including a feature in the 1993 issue of Motor Klassik. Its unique design and engineering continued to fascinate car enthusiasts, making it a memorable piece in automotive history.
The interior of the NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2 was equally impressive, with Pininfarina focusing on both stylish design and exceptional functionality. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
For many years, the NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2 was part of the collection of Rudi Klein, a well-known car collector. Klein acquired the vehicle from a friend and fellow Mercedes-Benz dealer, Thomas Taffet, in 1995. Though it only made a few public appearances after joining Klein's collection, the car was soon lent to Audi’s museum in Germany, where it remained on display for many years. This connection between NSU, which later merged with Audi, and the car's placement in the museum further solidified its place in automotive history.
Today, the NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2 remains a rare and fascinating piece of automotive art, representing an era of bold, forward-thinking, and creative car design. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
Today, the NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2 remains an intriguing and rare piece of automotive art. It represents a time when car design was bold, forward-thinking, and full of creativity. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, this car is a prime example of what happens when innovative engineering meets artistic vision. As it makes its way to auction once again, it offers a rare opportunity for someone to own a piece of history that continues to inspire with its timeless design and unique story. However, as there is no video available for the specific car, here is a video on the 13370 - NSU Ro80 Wankel - 1970 instead.
In the world of cars, few manage to capture the imagination quite like the NSU Ro 80 2 Porte + 2. It’s a reminder that the beauty of cars isn’t just in how fast they go or how luxurious they are, but in the stories they tell and the creativity that brings them to life. This car, with its roots in cutting-edge engineering and its place in a renowned collection, has a story that continues to captivate those who appreciate both style and innovation. If you're interested in owning it, you're in luck—this car is currently up for auction at RM Sotheby's. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER | MADLE.ORG | CARSCOOPS | RMSOTHEBYS ]
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Friday, October 18, 2024

C112 Gullwing: Mercedes-Benz's Hidden Supercar Gem

ONE-OFF - When we delve into the world of supercars, especially those crafted by renowned German manufacturers, the conversation can seem endless. Among the many awe-inspiring models that have been developed by Mercedes-Benz, there exists a supercar that, despite its remarkable features, remains largely unfamiliar to the general public and even to some automotive enthusiasts. This hidden gem is none other than the Mercedes-Benz C112, a supercar that not only stands out for its performance but also for its relative obscurity.
The Mercedes-Benz C112 emerged as a concept supercar in response to the German manufacturer’s triumphant return to motor racing in the late 1980s. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscar)

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Creager Hybrid: 95-Year-Old Builder's Custom Red Cadillac Convertible

⚠️Grandpa Masterpiece💣 - Creativity in the automotive world knows no age limits. Even an elderly grandfather can succeed in making his dream car. Kristi D. Johnson's grandpa, Wes, went viral on TikTok with his inspiring journey. He didn't attend college until his 30s, graduating from medical school at 41. Despite the challenges, in his retirement, he built the Creager Hybrid—a crowning achievement of ingenuity, passion, and determination.
A unique red Cadillac Eldorado convertible custom, known as the Creager Hybrid, was showcased at the Nashville Good Guys 2012. (Picture from: LegendaryCollectorCars)
Wes proudly introduced the Creager Hybrid, a custom-built red Cadillac Eldorado made from at least ten different cars, all sourced from junkyards. The idea for this unique creation began 30 years ago when a race car driver friend offered him a Cadillac Eldorado with the biggest engine Cadillac made. Although it was front-wheel drive, Wes envisioned a rear-driven sports car, so he started planning his build, storing the car at an airport. Starting the build in 1996 and finishing around 2000, the Creager Hybrid highlights Wes Johnson's dedication and skill

He found a frame in a junkyard that matched the Cadillac's width, welded it together, and slowly pieced together his masterpiece. The Creager Hybrid truly lives up to its name. The grill is from a modified GMC pickup, the front suspension from a Mustang, and the headlights from a Mazda. The front features an old Cadillac hood with custom-shaped fenders. The windshield is from a Ford pickup, and the doors are from a Chevy Camaro. The hubcaps come from a Lincoln Continental, and the rear is a modified Cadillac with shortened fenders and a custom trunk lid.
A unique red Cadillac Eldorado convertible custom, known as the Creager Hybrid, was showcased at the Nashville Good Guys 2012. (Picture from: Kristi D. Johnson's Pages in TikTok )
Inside the Creager Hybrid, Wes’s craftsmanship shines. He meticulously shaped and laminated wood for the interior, covered with vinyl for a polished look. The original Cadillac hood mechanism was preserved for functionality, and the metal fenders were skillfully welded to create perfect curves.

The front end of the Creager Hybrid, the only part not made of metal, is entirely fiberglass. Wes constructed forms from wood, covered them with styrofoam, and shaped them to fit, adding a heavy rope for extra strength. The headlights, which lift with a spring-loaded window raiser from a Ford, automatically turn on when raised.

Wes designed the gas tank to serve a dual purpose: holding gas and channeling air to the rear engine for cooling. Furthermore, he customized each part of the Creager Hybrid, meticulously cutting, bending, and welding the fenders to achieve the perfect shape. He then encountered another challenge when the carburetor protruded through the trunk lid. To address this, he created a wooden mold, covered it with fiberglass, and fashioned a Continental kit to conceal it.  
A unique red Cadillac Eldorado convertible custom, known as the Creager Hybrid. (Picture from: Kristi D. Johnson's Pages in TikTok )
To address engine cooling challenges, Wes installed three radiatorsone in the front, one for the hydraulic fluid, and the original radiator near the engine. With its 8.2-liter engine, racing cam, high-performance carburetor, and competition torque converter, the Creager Hybrid is a powerful machine. Despite its impressive capabilities, Wes drives it with great care.

Uniquely, the car is insured and registered as a 1970 Cadillac Eldorado, ensuring it’s road-legal. The Creager Hybrid is more than just a custom car—it’s a story of resilience, creativity, and passion. Wes Johnson’s meticulous craftsmanship and innovative problem-solving have resulted in a unique masterpiece. |

As a final note, while this article aims to capture the essence of the Creager Hybrid, it may contain imperfections or inaccuracies. We welcome any suggestions for improvement in the comments below. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KRISTI D. JOHNSON'S PAGES IN TIKTOK | LEGENDARYCOLLECTORCARS | SCOOPWHOOP | STACEYDAVID'S PAGES IN INSTAGRAM ]
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Friday, October 4, 2024

Spirit of Tomorrow: A Bold 1940s Glimpse into Automotive Future

Classic Masterpiece - In the world of automotive design, creativity often sparks innovation that leaves a lasting impression. Think of iconic cars like the Lamborghini Miura, which reshaped the sports car landscape with its mid-engine design. Just as the Miura stunned the world, the Spirit of Tomorrow from Canada holds a similar place in history as an ambitious and forward-thinking vehicle. This custom-built car by Horace Basil "Barney" Oldfield, conceived in the early 1940s, stands as a testament to the boldness of visionaries who dared to push boundaries in design and engineering.
The Spirit of Tomorrow from Canada holds a special place in history as an ambitious and forward-thinking vehicle, conceived in 1942. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The Spirit of Tomorrow came to life in Oldfield’s workshop near Prospect Lake, British Columbia, during a time when streamlined design and aerodynamics were still developing concepts in the automotive world. Inspired by both practicality and curiosity, Oldfield, an innovative welder by profession, created this masterpiece. The car was remarkable for its unique teardrop shape, which drew the attention of onlookers as much in 1942 as it does today. Oldfield's commitment to achieving the perfect aerodynamic form led him to test his wooden model in a nearby creek, observing how water flowed around it, much like a wind tunnel in motion. His hands-on approach speaks volumes about his inventive nature, making the Spirit of Tomorrow far more than just another car.
The Spirit of Tomorrow built by Horace Basil "Barney" Oldfield between 1938 and 1942 with the help of his friend John Norton, a skilled metalworker. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Built between 1938 and 1942 with the help of his friend John Norton, a skilled metalworker, the Spirit of Tomorrow was based on a news article that sparked Oldfield’s imagination. Its body, made entirely of hand-hammered aluminum, was crafted to perfection. The innovative design didn't stop with the exterior. The car was also equipped with a rear-mounted Ford V8 engine, an advanced feature for its time, and a unique two-speed Columbia over-drive transmission, providing a driving experience that was both smooth and powerful. The attention to detail in balancing the car, down to the use of sandbags in its chassis during testing, speaks to Oldfield’s relentless pursuit of perfection.
This Oldfield's creation was more than just a car; it was a symbol of ingenuity, featuring a 1939 Dodge frame and an innovative suspension system that defined its era. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Oldfield's creation wasn’t just a car; it was a symbol of ingenuity. From its 1939 Dodge frame to its carefully calibrated suspension system, the Spirit of Tomorrow was ahead of its time. A large metal fin adorned the rear, enhancing directional control and stability, especially in crosswinds. The car's low aerodynamic profile, combined with its lightweight build, allowed it to reach speeds of 180 kilometers per hour, impressive for a custom-built vehicle of that era. The fin and airfoil design worked in tandem to keep the car stable at high speeds, ensuring that even as it accelerated, the car lowered itself closer to the road, enhancing control.
The Spirit of Tomorrow's low aerodynamic profile, combined with its lightweight build, allowed it to reach speeds of 180 kilometers per hour, impressive for a custom-built vehicle of that era. (Picture from: Driving.ca)
Despite its futuristic design and cutting-edge technology, the Spirit of Tomorrow never quite became the "car of tomorrow" as its name suggested. Oldfield's vision, much like other ambitious projects of the time, was perhaps too advanced for widespread acceptance. Yet, the car remains a marvel of engineering, representing the hopes and dreams of an era when anything seemed possible. While streamlined designs, like the Spirit of Tomorrow or its predecessor, the Dymaxion, never became mainstream, they laid the foundation for future innovations in automotive design.
Vancouver newspaper clipping from June 1942 reporting on Horace Basil "Barney" Oldfield's groundbreaking vehicle, The Spirit of Tomorrow. (Picture from: SpiritOfTomorrow)
Even today, the Spirit of Tomorrow continues to captivate those who encounter it. Tim Lindsay, the car's current caretaker and nephew-in-law of Oldfield, proudly preserves the vehicle’s legacy. Each time it’s driven or displayed, whether at local events or conferences, it turns heads just as it did when it first rolled out of Oldfield’s workshop. The vehicle's sleek design, combined with its rich history, ensures that the Spirit of Tomorrow remains an enduring piece of automotive art.
The Spirit of Tomorrow was equipped with a rear-mounted Ford V8 engine, and a unique two-speed Columbia over-drive transmission, providing a driving experience that was both smooth and powerful. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Though Oldfield passed away in the 1970s, his family has worked tirelessly to keep his memory alive, preserving both the car and the roundhouse he built, which still stands in Saanich today. This roundhouse, inspired by the rotating dome of the Plaskett telescope at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, showcases Oldfield’s fascination with mechanical movement and precision. It’s this same fascination that drove him to create the Spirit of Tomorrow, a car that, even now, feels like a glimpse into a future that never fully arrived. | lBMbUQTMxIk |
Oldfield’s Spirit of Tomorrow may not have become the standard for cars to come, but its impact on the world of design and innovation is undeniable. It remains a symbol of what can be achieved when creativity meets determination, and a reminder that sometimes, the most significant breakthroughs in design are the ones that never quite make it to the mainstream. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SPIRITOFTOMORROW | AUTOEVOLUTION | DRIVING.CA | SOOKENEWSMIRROR | EVELAZARUS | TAMPARACING ]
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Sunday, September 29, 2024

1938 Phantom Corsair: A Visionary Car Ahead of Its Time

Classic Masterpiece - When it comes to classic cars with unique and forward-thinking designs, the Phantom Corsair stands out as a fascinating topic. This prototype automobile, built in 1938, exemplifies innovation and style that were well ahead of its time. Designed by Rust Heinz, of the famous H. J. Heinz family, in collaboration with Maurice Schwartz from the Bohman & Schwartz coachbuilding company in Pasadena, California, the Phantom Corsair remains an icon of automotive history.
The 1938 Phantom Corsair was designed by Rust Heinz and Maurice Schwartz, and it was built in 1938 by the Bohman & Schwartz coachbuilding company. (Picture from: AmazingCars)
The Corsair's design is a masterpiece of art deco styling, featuring a sleek and aggressive body that commands attention. Built on a Cord 810 chassis, its six-passenger, two-door sedan configuration was quite spacious, seating four in the front row and one to the left of the driver. This remarkable width and layout were designed to provide a unique and luxurious travel experience.
Front end of the Phantom Corsair. (Picture from: Motorcities.org)
Powering the Phantom Corsair was a Lycoming V8 engine with a displacement of 289 cubic inches, capable of producing 190 horsepower. This powerful engine allowed the Corsair to reach speeds of up to 115 mph, a remarkable feat for its time. To ensure the driver's control over this speed, the car was equipped with drum brakes on all four corners.
Designer Rust Heinz behind the sheel of the Phantom Corsair. (Picture from: Motorcities.org)
Rust Heinz had grand plans for the Phantom Corsair. With a production cost of approximately $24,000 in 1938 (equivalent to about $418,000 in 2019), Heinz intended to produce the car in limited quantities, with an estimated selling price of $12,500. Unfortunately, his untimely death in a car accident in July 1939 halted these plans, leaving the prototype as the only one ever built.
Despite never entering production, the Phantom Corsair is celebrated for its advanced features and futuristic design elements, such as faired-in fenders and a low profile. These characteristics have earned it a place in automotive history as a vehicle that was truly ahead of its time. Today, the Phantom Corsair resides in the National Automobile Museum, also known as The Harrah Collection, in Reno, Nevada, where it continues to captivate car enthusiasts and historians alike. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VINTAGE.ES | MOTORCITIES | AMAZINGCARS | COMPLEX ]
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Thursday, September 26, 2024

Michelotti's Unique Touch Transforms Toyota MR2 into Clas

📢Maestro Works💰 - One such visionary who made a significant mark in this field is Giovanni Michelotti. Renowned globally, Michelotti’s contributions have spanned numerous automotive brands, showcasing his ability to transform concepts into reality. After founding Michelotti Studio in 1959, his designs left an indelible imprint on the industry, spanning everything from sports cars to trucks.
The Michelotti Clas, introduced in 1986, was a forward-thinking light sports car built with Toyota MR2 components and powered by a 1600cc engine. (Picture from: Carrozzeria-Italiani)
Michelotti’s legacy
includes many prototypes, one of the most intriguing being the Michelotti Clas, introduced in 1986. This prototype was a forward-thinking light sports car built using components from the Toyota MR2, powered by a 1600cc engine. The design featured both front and rear baggage compartments, offering surprising storage space for a vehicle of its size. Additionally, there was a space behind the seats, accommodating rear passengers in emergencies, although this was only practical if the driver was shorter than 5'6".
This prototype not only highlights Michelotti’s technical skill but also his ability to foresee and adapt to future trends in automotive design. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Clas stood out with its unique cooling system, integrating scoops into the C-pillar to cool the engine efficiently. Its headlights were positioned high on the nose, a distinct design choice. Inside, the Clas maintained a more subdued aesthetic. The seats were upholstered in wool, providing a cozy feel, while the center console borrowed parts from the Toyota MR2 and switches from Lancia models. The dashboard, finished in tweed cloth, contributed to a warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by analog instruments placed strategically behind the steering wheel.
The Michelotti Clas's design featured both front and rear baggage compartments, offering surprising storage space for a vehicle of its size. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Michelotti's approach to design was both innovative and practical, blending style with functionality. His ability to utilize existing components in new ways demonstrated his resourcefulness and vision. The Clas is a testament to his forward-thinking approach, blending performance and comfort in a compact sports car. This prototype not only highlights Michelotti’s technical skill but also his ability to foresee and adapt to future trends in automotive design.
Inside, the Clas featured a subdued aesthetic with wool-upholstered seats for a cozy feel, a center console with parts from the Toyota MR2, and switches from Lancia models. (Picture from: Carrozzeria-Italiani)
The integration of various elements from different car models into the Clas underscored Michelotti's ingenuity. By combining components from Toyota and Lancia, he created a vehicle that was both unique and practical. This fusion of ideas exemplifies the innovative spirit that has driven the automotive industry forward, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.
The Michelotti Clas is just one example of how his designs have influenced the evolution of car design, inspiring future generations of designers. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Reflecting on Michelotti's contributions, it becomes clear that his work has had a lasting impact. The Clas is just one example of how his designs have influenced the evolution of car design, inspiring future generations of designers. Michelotti’s legacy is a reminder of the power of creativity and the importance of daring to innovate, even when it means blending seemingly disparate elements into a cohesive whole.
The Michelotti Clas stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision and skill come together in perfect harmony. (Picture from: Carrozzeria-Italiani)
As we look to the future, Michelotti's work continues to inspire. The principles he employed in his designs – creativity, practicality, and a willingness to push boundaries – remain relevant today. His ability to envision what could be, rather than what is, sets a benchmark for aspiring designers. The Clas, with its unique blend of components and thoughtful design, serves as a symbol of Michelotti's enduring influence on the automotive world. | 2Ns7u2GlOb0 |
In the end, the story of Giovanni Michelotti and the Clas prototype is more than just a tale of automotive innovation. It is a celebration of creativity and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Michelotti's ability to turn a concept into a tangible, functional vehicle exemplifies the essence of great design. His legacy lives on, inspiring new generations to dream big and innovate boldly. The Clas stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision and skill come together in perfect harmony. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | ALLCARINDEX | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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