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Extinct Gems - In the vibrant world of automotive history, Italy stands as a stalwart producer of exquisite cars, thanks to its lineage of renowned carriage makers. Names like Pininfarina, Boano, Ghia, Bertone, and Vignale have graced the automotive scene with atypical versions that stand apart from the offerings of major manufacturers. This rich heritage has given rise to a plethora of unique models in the Italian market, showcasing a blend of artistry and engineering prowess.
The Michelotti Boudot Conrero Coupe represents a fusion of French-Italian craftsmanship and ingenuity, and crafted through a collaboration between Giovanni Michelotti, Virgilio Conrero (who created the engine), and Roger Boudot (chassis elements) in 1962. (Picture from: LiveJournal)
It's been a great pleasure being with you on this journey.
Thank you.
CAR Masterpiece - Exploring the history of unique cars crafted by passionate automotive enthusiasts can be a fascinating journey through time. One such remarkable creation is a custom car model crafted by the renowned American autobuilder George Barris, which took center stage as a grand prize in a raffle organized by Imperial Oil Canada (Esso) in 1967.
The Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado, a custom car model by renowned American autobuilder George Barris, was crafted for Imperial Oil Canada (Esso) to commemorate Canada's centennial at Montreal's Expo 67. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
Designed to commemorate Canada's centennial at Montreal's Expo 67, Imperial Oil Canada (Esso) embarked on a journey of automotive innovation by partnering with Barris Kustom Industries to craft four bespoke 1967 Oldsmobile Toronados, later known as the Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado. These vehicles were envisioned as the epitome of family touring cars, seamlessly blending futuristic aesthetics with the prevailing trends of that era.
The Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado, built upon the 1967 Oldsmobile Toronado, epitomizes family touring cars by seamlessly blending futuristic aesthetics with era-defining trends. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
The Oldsmobile Toronado marked a significant milestone as the first front-wheel-drive American car since the 1937 Cord. Born in the wake of the iconic Batmobile, this automobile stands out as one of the most iconic creations of the 1960s. Skilled craftsmen at Barris Kustom meticulously transformed the Toronado by extending its wheelbase from 3022 to 3403 mm and the overall length from 5816 to 6121 mm, resulting in a visually striking and aerodynamically efficient masterpiece.
The Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado stands out as one of the most iconic creations of the 1960s, with its extended wheelbase from 3022 to 3403 mm and overall length from 5816 to 6121 mm, resulting in a visually striking and aerodynamically efficient masterpiece. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
The exterior enhancements exuded elegance, featuring convex fiberglass fenders, rectangular headlights, a hood adorned with eight exhaust pipes, and a sleek sloping fastback roof, all accentuated by chrome accents. These modifications not only elevated the car's aesthetic appeal but also contributed to its superior performance on the road.
The Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado's rear passenger compartment featured a curved sofa with a fold-out table. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
The spacious interior boasted swiveling front seats that could be turned to face the rear wrap-around lounge seat, providing occupants with a panoramic view of their surroundings. The elongated front and rear bumpers added a touch of aggression to the Toronado's appearance, complemented by oversized raised wheel wells that added a futuristic charm to the expansive seating area. The interior amenities included a pull-out table for rear passengers, dual radios, and an internal refrigerator, ensuring a luxurious and convenient driving experience.
The Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado, with its captivating Gold Metallic exterior and plush Tan interior, showcases Barris' unparalleled craftsmanship through meticulous customization. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
Finished in a captivating Gold Metallic exterior and a plush Tan interior, this meticulously customized Toronado serves as a testament to Barris' unparalleled craftsmanship. Every detail, from the unique wrap-around rear seating to the integrated writing desk, reflects a harmonious blend of innovation and luxury, solidifying its status as George Barris' crowning achievement.
Following Expo 67, the four Toronado 67Xs made their way to Esso gas stations, where they became the focal point of raffles offering enticing prizes like color televisions and cameras, with the grand prize being ownership of one of these iconic cars. Winners not only received the Toronado but also enjoyed additional perks such as complimentary gas, repairs, and insurance for a year, turning their dreams into reality.
The enduring legacy of the Toronado 67X lives on through the surviving examples, with one of them showcased at the Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria during Canada's 150th anniversary celebration in 2017. This lasting impact pays homage to the timeless allure and innovative spirit embodied by George Barris' remarkable creation, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history and captivating enthusiasts for generations to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VICTORIABUZZ | SCHMITT | AUTOMOTIVE-HERTITAGE | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC | CARSCOOPS | AUTOBLOG ]
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Genesis EV - The Korean luxury brand Genesis unveiled its latest masterpieces at the Genesis House New York, setting the stage for a new era in automotive innovation. On March 25, 2024, enthusiasts and industry insiders were treated to a glimpse of the future with the Genesis Neolun Concept and the Genesis GV60 Magma Concept.
A lineup of Genesis Magma series models sat on display at the prestigious New York International Auto Show. (Picture from: RPMNewsWeekly)
1. Genesis Neolun Concept
The Genesis Neolun Concept represents a leap forward in electric SUV technology, embodying a fusion of cutting-edge features and design excellence. Inspired by Korea's iconic moon-shaped porcelain jars, the Neolun concept symbolizes Genesis' commitment to timeless aesthetics and meticulous craftsmanship.
The Genesis Neolun Concept represents a leap forward in electric SUV technology, embodying a fusion of cutting-edge features and design excellence. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke remarked that the design language of the Neolun Concept transcends the ordinary, blending newness with the allure of the moon.
A
notable feature of the Neolun Concept is its innovative carriage door
design, seamlessly integrated without the conventional B pillar. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
One of the standout features of the Neolun Concept is its innovative carriage door design, seamlessly integrated without the traditional B pillar. This not only enhances the vehicle's aesthetics but also improves interior spaciousness and accessibility for passengers.
The Genesis Neolun Concept enhances both the vehicle's aesthetics and interior spaciousness, providing improved accessibility for passengers. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Genesis has achieved a remarkable milestone in engineering by bringing this concept to life, signaling a bold direction for future production vehicles.
The Genesis Neolun Concept draws inspiration from Korea's iconic moon-shaped porcelain jars, embodying Genesis' dedication to timeless aesthetics and meticulous craftsmanship. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Genesis emphasizes that they "don't create show cars for the sake of show business," signaling that a production version of the Neolun concept is in the works. This flagship SUV is slated for release in the near future, with an anticipated arrival within the next five years.
2. Genesis GV60 Magma Concept
On the performance front, the Genesis GV60 Magma Concept steals the spotlight with its captivating blend of aggression and elegance. The muscular wheel arches, aerodynamic enhancements, and striking color palette define the GV60 Magma as a symbol of power and sophistication. Inside, luxury meets functionality with premium materials and attention to detail, promising an unparalleled driving experience.
The Genesis GV60 Magma Concept embodies power and sophistication, featuring muscular wheel arches, aerodynamic enhancements, and a striking color palette. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Genesis doesn't just stop at showcasing these concepts; it teases a broader Magma program that promises high-performance variants across its lineup. From the GV80 Coupe concept to the G80 Magma Special and the X Gran Berlinetta concept, Genesis is redefining automotive excellence with a focus on innovation and driving pleasure.
When it comes to performance, the Genesis GV60 Magma Concept shines with its captivating blend of aggression and elegance. (Picture from: Demokratis.co.id)
A key aspect of Genesis' vision is its collaboration with racing legend Jacky Ickx, hinting at the brand's commitment to delivering exhilarating performance on the road. This partnership underscores Genesis' dedication to pushing boundaries and creating vehicles that thrill enthusiasts worldwide.
The grand reveal of the Neolun Concept, GV60 Magma Concept, and other Genesis models took place at the prestigious New York International Auto Show, showcasing Genesis' prowess in blending luxury, technology, and performance. As the automotive landscape evolves, Genesis stands at the forefront, shaping the future of mobility with its bold designs and unwavering dedication to excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GENESIS | AUDACY | CARANDDRIVER | RPMNEWSWEEKLY ]
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⛔ THE LEGEND 💣 - Maserati, the iconic Italian automotive brand steeped in history since 1914 and now part of Fiat, is a name synonymous with luxury, performance, and style. Over the years, Maserati has produced a myriad of car models, showcasing its prowess in both the consumer market and the high-stakes world of racing.
1957 Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe was handbuilt by Zagato in Italy by following the Costin specifications. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
One standout creation from Maserati's rich history is the Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe, a race car crafted to compete in the 1957 World Sportscar Championship, representing Italy's automotive excellence on the global stage.
1957 Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe uses a 8-cylinder, 4.5 liter engine able to spew up to 400 hp of power. (Picture from: Supercars)
Originally conceived as a barchetta in 1956 and piloted by racing legend Juan Manuel Fangio in Buenos Aires, the car underwent a transformation in 1957 under the design genius of British automotive designer Frank Costin. The result was a stunning coupe variant, handcrafted by Zagato in Italy to precise Costin specifications, thus earning its distinctive hyphenated name.
Zagato's craftsmanship shone through in the coupe's lightweight aluminum body, adding a mere 65 kg compared to its barchetta counterpart. This emphasis on lightweight construction contributed significantly to the car's performance, making it a formidable contender on the racing circuit.
Interior view of the Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe, as seen during Maserati's centenary celebration back in 2015. (Picture from: Otoblitz)
Dubbed 'Il Mostro' (The Monster) by Zagato, the car earned this moniker due to its striking design, meticulously honed for optimal functionality, paired with a potent 8-cylinder, 4.5-liter engine generating a staggering 400 hp.
The Maserati 450S took on formidable rivals like Ferrari and Jaguar at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, piloted by the legendary Stirling Moss and Harry Schell. Despite starting from second place, the car showcased its speed, leading the race for several laps with a top speed of 320 kph. However, an unfortunate engine failure prevented it from finishing the race.
1957 Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe changed into a road-legal car after purchased by an American car fans named Byron Staver in 1958. (Picture from: Otoblitz)
Post-Le Mans, the car underwent a transformation, becoming road-legal under the ownership of American enthusiast Byron Staver, who tastefully repainted it in elegant black, departing from its original 'rosso corsa' hue.
Renumbered as 4512 by Maserati and further refined by Fantuzzi, the coupe exchanged hands over the years, finding a temporary home at the Rosso Bianco Museum in Germany from 1978 to 2002. Resurrected by Maserati collector Alfredo Brener in 2002 after restoration in Italy, the car stands as a testament to Maserati and Zagato's enduring legacy in automotive excellence.
Later this 1957 Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe inspired the new car named Maserati Zagato Mostro in 2015. (Picture from: Aeromobilia)
In a poignant tribute to its heritage, Maserati unveiled the Maserati Zagato Mostro supercar in 2015, drawing inspiration from the iconic Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe, a fitting homage to a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide. | 4L6FIH0og-Q |
The journey of the Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe encapsulates the intersection of artistry, engineering, and racing prowess, showcasing the enduring allure of Italian automotive craftsmanship through the annals of time. *** [EKA [09112020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSTYLING | SUPERCARS] AUTOMOTIVPRESS.FR | GOODWOOD ROAD&RACING | WIKIPEDIA ]
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ONE-OFF - In the world of automotive history, one particular car stands out as a testament to the enduring allure of copper, brass, and bronze in car design. The 1967 Exemplar I Concept is a unique creation that aimed to restore the prestige of these materials in an era dominated by steel and chrome.
The 1967 Exemplar I Concept is a unique creation that aimed to restore the prestige of copper, brass, and bronze materials in an era dominated by steel and chrome. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
During the Brass Era, which spanned from 1896 to 1915, copper, brass, and bronze were integral to car construction. However, as mass production techniques evolved, these materials were gradually replaced by steel, nickel plating, and enamel. Chrome emerged as the go-to coating, defining the aesthetic of cars for decades.
The Exemplar I was designed by Mario Revelli de Beaumont and built by Carrozzeria Coggiola, it was first shown to the world at the 1968 New York Auto Show. (Picture from: Silodrome)
The resurgence of copper in automotive design began in 1964 when the Copper Development Association collaborated with Carrozzeria Sibona-Bassano to create the 1964 Mercer-Cobra designed by Virgil M. Exner Sr. and his son, Virgil M. Exner Jr. Despite its attention-grabbing design, the industry did not immediately embrace copper on a large scale.
The 1967 Exemplar I Concept built based on Buick Riviera Gran Sport, and showcased a futuristic design ahead of its time, resembling vehicles from the mid-1970s rather than the late 1960s. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
The turning point came in 1967 with the unveiling of Exemplar I. Funded by the Bridgeport Brass Company and the Copper Development Association, this car was a reimagined 1967 Buick Riviera Gran Sport, featuring a modern body designed by Mario Revelli de Beaumont and built by Carrozzeria Coggiola in Turin, Italy.
Inside the cabin, copper plating is prominently featured, extending to the car's exterior as well. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
The Exemplar I showcased a futuristic design ahead of its time, resembling vehicles from the mid-1970s rather than the late 1960s. Its innovative features included dual radiators and a front-mounted spare tire, challenging traditional automotive norms.
The interior of Exemplar I was equally striking, adorned with copper-plated elements from center consoles to trim pieces. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
The interior of Exemplar I was equally striking, adorned with copper-plated elements from center consoles to trim pieces. However, the excessive use of copper somewhat overshadowed the car's groundbreaking design, leading to mixed reactions.
Under the hood, you'll find the spare wheel at the front, along with dual radiators and a significant presence of copper plating and components, showcasing the material's importance. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Following its debut at the 1968 New York Auto Show, Exemplar I embarked on a nationwide tour, captivating audiences with its unique blend of style and material innovation. However, due to regulatory constraints, the car could not be registered for road use in the United States.
The Exemplar I serves as a fascinating chapter in automotive history, highlighting the ongoing quest for innovation and the enduring appeal of unconventional materials in car design. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Fortunately, the car found a savior in Herman Steinkraus, president of the Bridgeport Brass Company, who purchased it to preserve its legacy. After decades in private ownership, the car underwent restoration and is now (in April 2024) offered for sale, registered and ready for the road in Vermont as a 1967 Buick Riviera.
The story of Exemplar I serves as a fascinating chapter in automotive history, highlighting the ongoing quest for innovation and the enduring appeal of unconventional materials in car design. Its journey from show car to road-legal masterpiece underscores the timeless allure of craftsmanship and creativity in the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BRINGATRAILER| SILODROME| AUTOEVOLUTION | CONCEPTCARZ ]
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Forgotten Icons - Louis J. Fageol from Cleveland, Ohio, internationally known as Lou Fageolleft an indelible mark on the world of racing with his Porsche innovative and daring creations. While Porsche enthusiasts often marvel at the evolution of the brand's iconic sports cars, it's figures like Fageol who add a touch of rebellious flair to the narrative.
Lou Fageol's second radical twin-engined Porsche constructed from airplane drop tanks on a box channel frame with Porsche suspension bits, while attended at Pebble Beach April 1955 shows. (Picture from: JustACarGuy)
Fageol's journey into automotive notoriety began with his fascination for dual-engine setups. This obsession stemmed from his father's legacy, Frank Fageol, was a co-founder of the Fageol Motors Company (along with his brother William) whose pioneered the concept of twin-engine buses in the early 20th century.
The original Fageol's car with 356 coupe body and '51-2 Packard grille in early August 1953 at Paine Field in Everett, Washington, during SCCA races held as part of the annual Seattle Seafair celebration. (Picture from: JustACarGuy)
Among Frank's notable achievements was the development of a twin-engined bus, which he sold under the Twin Coach Company name. This familial connection to engineering excellence laid the groundwork for Lou's audacious experiments with Porsche cars.
Lou Fageol's second radical twin-engined Porsche with a flip top entry while raced at the 400 km race of Albany, and finished second with the unlimited class all-wheel-drive sports car. (Picture from: JustACarGuy)
One of Lou Fageol's most striking creations was the Twin-engined Porsche racer. Unlike anything seen before, these cars were a testament to Fageol's ingenuity and willingness to push boundaries. The idea of marrying two Porsche engines to enhance performance was both bold and brilliant.
Lou Fageol's second radical twin-engined Porsche racer with a small sided, and flip top entries. (Picture from: JustACarGuy)
The impact of Fageol's creations reverberated through racing circuits, where they earned a reputation for intimidating even seasoned competitors. His dual-engine Porsche not only showcased technical prowess but also hinted at the future of four-wheel-drive sports cars.
Interior view of Lou Fageol's second radical twin-engined Porsche. (Picture from: JustACarGuy)
Fageol's innovations didn't stop there. He continued to refine his designs, culminating in a second car featuring a lightweight pipe frame and aluminum body—a true embodiment of racing aesthetics fused with engineering excellence. This car, powered by two Porsche 1500 Super engines, marked a pinnacle in Fageol's career.
Lou Fageol's second radical twin-engined Porsche powered by two Porsche 1500 Super engines (in pictured was its front engine), marked a pinnacle in Fageol's career. (Picture from: JustACarGuy)
One notable event that highlighted the capabilities of Fageol's creations was the 400 km race in Albany, where his all-wheel-drive sports car secured a commendable second-place finish. The car's design, reminiscent of Pininfarina prototypes, underscored Fageol's ability to blend performance with aesthetics seamlessly.
Lou Fageol's second radical twin-engined Porsche powered by two Porsche 1500 Super engines (in pictured was its rear engine), marked a pinnacle in Fageol's career. (Picture from: JustACarGuy)
Despite the passage of time, the legacy of Lou Fageol lives on in the annals of automotive history. His pioneering spirit and relentless pursuit of innovation continue to inspire generations of engineers and enthusiasts alike. Fageol's contributions to the evolution of Porsche racing remain a testament to the enduring allure of pushing boundaries and redefining what's possible on the track.
Lou Fageol's radical twin-engined Porsche featuring a lightweight pipe frame and aluminum body—a true embodiment of racing aesthetics fused with engineering excellence. (Picture from: JustACarGuy)
In retrospect, Lou Fageol's journey serves as a reminder that true innovation knows no bounds. As we celebrate the legacy of Porsche and its trailblazers, let us not forget the mavericks like Fageol, whose passion and daring paved the way for the remarkable machines we admire today. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | EXCELLENCE-MAG | ZWISCHENGAS | JUSTACARGUY | JALOPNIK | RESERVATORY6 ]
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Gem from the Past - The world of automotive design is a fascinating realm where creativity and innovation collide to produce vehicles that often push the boundaries of conventional aesthetics. Bruce Mohs, a visionary in this realm, showcased his avant-garde approach with the 1967 Ostentatienne Opera Sedan, now hailed as an eccentric symbol of luxury.
The Ostentatienne Opera Sedan, crafted by Bruce Mohs in 1967 based on a real International truck chassis, stands as an eccentric symbol of luxury, earning the title of the ultimate 'look-at-me-mobile' during its time. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)
Bruce Mohs, primarily known as an entrepreneur with a seaplane service company in Madison, Wisconsin, surprised many with his foray into automobile manufacturing. Priced at $19,600 during its debut, the Ostentatienne Opera Sedan attracted attention despite initial commercial hurdles, thanks to its bold and distinctive design.
The Mohs Ostentatienne Opera Sedan boasted a real truck chassis from International with a 119″ wheelbase, and measured a massive 90″ wide, 69″ tall, 246″ long, and weighed some 6,100 lbs. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)
Unlike typical luxury sedans of its time, the Ostentatienne boasted a real truck chassis from International with a 119″ wheelbase, and measured a massive 90″ wide, 69″ tall, 246″ long, and weighed some 6,100 lbs., extravagant styling, and lavish gold accents. Its sheer presence commanded attention, earning it the moniker of the ultimate "look-at-me-mobile" at the time.
One of the standout features of the Mohs Ostentatienne Opera Sedan was its distinctive entrance: a fold-up central rear door reinforced with heavy steel girders for enhanced safety. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)
One of the defining features of the Ostentatienne was its singular entrance—a fold-up central rear door, complemented by heavy steel girders for safety. Although the interior space was not overly generous, the car offered excellent visibility, thanks to its lack of real pillars and cantilevered roof design.
While the interior space wasn't expansive, the car provided superb visibility due to its pillar-less design and cantilevered roof. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)
Despite being powered by a 250 hp 304 CID V8 engine, some enthusiasts believed that the Ostentatiennedeserved a more potent International 549 CID V8, fitting for its imposing stature. The car also boasted luxurious amenities like genuine walnut on the dash, 110V power, a fridge, and unique "isle lights," reminiscent of features found in seaplanes.
The 1967 Mohs Ostentatienne Opera Sedan was crafted to provide a luxurious and comfortable four-seater driving experience, boasting a 250 hp 304 CID V8 engine. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)
Mohs' unconventional designs, including the Ostentatienne and later the Safarikar in 1973, raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about automotive aesthetics and safety. The Safarikar, based on an International Travelall, featured peculiar elements like outward-opening doors on sliding rods, intended for side-impact protection but criticized for being impractical.
The 1967 Mohs Ostentatienne Opera Sedan also boasted luxurious amenities like genuine walnut on the dash, 110V power, a fridge, and unique "isle lights," reminiscent of features found in seaplanes. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)
Despite the initial skepticism and lack of commercial success, Mohs' creations have garnered admiration and curiosity over time. The restoration of the original Ostentatienne prototype in 2009 by Wisconsin high schools breathed new life into this iconic piece of automotive history. After fully restored to its original glory and now resides at Wayne Lensing's Historic Auto Museum in Roscoe, Illinois.
Bruce Mohs' next eccentric creation, the Safarikar, emerged in 1973, built upon an International Travelall platform, and also boasted unique features such as outward-opening doors on sliding rods. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)
In retrospect, Mohs' daring designs may have been ahead of their time, paving the way for future automotive trends and influencing urban automotive culture. The legacy of the Ostentatienne Opera Sedan lives on as a symbol of daring creativity and automotive innovation that continues to inspire enthusiasts and designers alike.
The story of Bruce Mohs and his unconventional automobiles serves as a reminder that true innovation often comes from daring to break away from the norm and exploring uncharted territories in design and engineering. As automotive enthusiasts, we can only imagine what other visionary creations might emerge in the future, pushing the boundaries of what we perceive as possible in the world of automobiles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARTHROTTLE | CURBSIDECLASSIC | THEAUTOPIAN | WIKIPEDIA ]
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