Forgotten ONES - In the mid-20th century, the Brazilian automotive industry experienced a remarkable surge, particularly in competitive racing. The 1960s saw a fierce rivalry among brands like DKW-Vemag, Willys, and Simca on racetracks scattered across the nation. This era was synonymous with speed, but no vehicle epitomized this better than the DKW-Vermag Carcará. Named after a Brazilian endemic predatory bird, the Carcará set the Brazilian land speed record in 1966, clocking an astonishing 231 km/h.
The DKW-Vemag Carcará had set the Brazilian land speed record in 1966, clocking an astonishing 231 km/h. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)
Wild ONES - Imagine a world where car manufacturers bring the wildest, most unusual ideas to life. While this might seem far-fetched, Honda, the renowned Japanese automotive giant, has already ventured into this realm with a remarkable concept car in 1999. This extraordinary vehicle, although just a concept, showcases Honda's innovative spirit and willingness to push the boundaries of automotive design.
The Honda's Innovative Spocket Concept is a versatile marvel that can morph into a convertible, a pickup, and a sports car, all at the push of a button. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Honda's research and development entity, Honda R & D Americas, Inc., based in Torrance, transformed an audacious idea into reality. This concept vehicle, known as the Honda Spocket, is a versatile marvel that can morph into a convertible, a pickup, and a sports car, all at the push of a button. With the touch of a button, the Spocket transitions from four seats to two, and its clamshell top retracts, offering an exhilarating open-air driving experience.
Honda's research and development entity, Honda R & D Americas, Inc., based in Torrance, transformed an audacious idea into reality. This concept vehicle, known as the Honda Spocket Concept. (Picture from: Motor1)
The journey to create the Honda Spocket was a swift one, taking only eight months from design to completion. The inspiration behind this futuristic vehicle traces back to Honda’s T360 mid-engine pickup truck, the company’s first mass-produced vehicle launched in 1963. The T360 boasted a high-revving, 4-cylinder DOHC engine with four carburetors, a mid-engine layout, and a cab-over design, all contributing to its ample cargo and cabin space.
Honda's
research and development entity, Honda R & D Americas, Inc., based
in Torrance, transformed an audacious idea into reality. This concept
vehicle, known as the Honda Spocket Concept. (Picture from: Motor1)
The Spocket stands out with its angular, lightweight body, dramatic tilt-up doors, and a striking bright-red over gun-metal gray color scheme. The interior is designed to be both durable and stylish, featuring bucket seats made from weather-resistant fabrics. This ensures that the car can withstand various environmental conditions while maintaining a sleek appearance.
The Honda Spocket Concept stands out with its angular, lightweight body, dramatic tilt-up doors, and a striking bright-red over gun-metal gray color scheme. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
One of the most impressive aspects of the Honda Spocket is its advanced four-wheel-drive system. This system includes a hybrid gasoline-electric engine powering the front wheels and two in-wheel electric motors for the rear wheels, providing full-time four-wheel drive. Additionally, the vehicle boasts a semi-automatic, five-speed transmission with shift buttons conveniently located on the steering wheel.
Inside the Spocket, innovation continues with waterproof bucket seats equipped with five-point seatbelts for safety and comfort, complemented by Honda’s GPS Navigation system and electric controls to enhance the driving experience. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Inside the Spocket, the innovation continues with bucket seats equipped with five-point seatbelts, ensuring safety and comfort. The interior is completely waterproof, a testament to its versatility. Further enhancing the driving experience, the Spocket features Honda’s GPS Navigation system and electric controls. Instead of traditional side-view mirrors, the car is equipped with cameras that project rear images onto a heads-up display on the front windshield.
At the touch of a button, the Honda Spocket Concept transitions from four seats to two while its clamshell top retracts, offering an exhilarating open-air driving experience. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
The Honda Spocket is not just about sporty performance; it embodies versatility and practicality. Whether you're loading up sports gear for an adventurous day out or enjoying a leisurely drive, this concept car caters to an active lifestyle. The Spocket is a shining example of Honda's commitment to innovation, pushing the boundaries of what a vehicle can be.
The original Honda Spocket Concept is still around, and sits on display at the American Honda Museum in Torrarnce as one of Honda’s collections. (Picture from: ConceptCars)
Honda says the original Spocket concept is still around, and sits on display at the American Honda Museum in Torrarnce as one of Honda’s collections. Perhaps one day, we’ll have the opportunity to see it in person. Until then, we can only dream of what might have been. As a fast, sporty convertible capable of handling various activities, the Honda Spocket would undoubtedly be a lot of fun to drive. | lmXhPuaj4x4 |
In a world where the extraordinary often seems unattainable, the Honda Spocket reminds us that with creativity and determination, even the wildest ideas can come to life. As we look to the future, we can only imagine what other groundbreaking concepts Honda and other innovators will bring to the automotive world. The journey of the Spocket is a testament to the power of imagination and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HONDA | SUPERCARS.NET | MOTOR1 | WIKIPEDIA | CONCEPTCARS ]
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Forgotten ONES - In the world of unique and rare automotive designs, the Sbarro Stash stands out as a fascinating example, though it's a vehicle that many have never heard of. Revealed to the public for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in 1974, the Stash was a striking three-seater coupe built on the platform of the Canadian-made Bricklin SV1.
The Sbarro Stash coupe was built on the platform of the Canadian-made Bricklin SV1, and revealed to the public for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in 1974. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
The car’s foundation, reminiscent of the SV1, includes a central beam connected to a reinforced tubular frame, surrounded by a double roll bar, and all of this was integrated into two polyester monocoques. The Stash's construction wasn't just about aesthetics; it also ensured safety with features like a reinforced roll cage.
The Sbarro Stash coupe features a different profile with a very high rear end. (Picture from: FrancoSbarro)
The car's engineering also highlighted practicality. Braking power came from four disc brakes, with optional sprinklers available for enhanced performance. Despite its sleek and sporty appearance, the Stash offered more storage capacity than one might expect from a car of its kind, with two luggage compartments—one at the front with a capacity of 290 liters and another at the rear with 140 liters. This made the Stash not just a beauty on the outside but also a functional vehicle.
The Sbarro Stash targa cabriolet HS model aka Super Stash of 1978 powered by a 6.9-liter Mercedes-Benz V8 engine. (Picture from: FrancoSbarro)
Customers had the choice between two body styles: a classic coupe and a targa cabriolet known as the HS aka Super Stash. The car’s name, Stash, was derived from Stanislas Klossowski, the vehicle's sponsor, adding a personal touch to the vehicle's identity. Moving away from the Bricklin SV1's rotary engine, the Stash came with a range of engine options.
Franco Sbarro was behind the wheel of a Super Stash HS with a 6.9-liter Mercedes V8 engine. (Picture from: FrancoSbarro)
The base model was powered by a Volkswagen 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder K70 engine. For those seeking more power, there was the option of a Mercedes 450 SE 6.9-liter V8 engine that boasted 286 bhp, allowing the car to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds.
The interior of the Sbarro Super Stash HS, much more classic than that of the Cardin. (Picture from: FrancoSbarro)
In some unique instances, the Stash was fitted with different engines to suit specific requests. For example, a Greek businessman named Jean Arvanitis had a Stash equipped with a Porsche engine, demonstrating the car's versatility. There's also mention of a possible version with a BMW 3-liter 6-cylinder engine, although this hasn’t been confirmed.
The Sbarro Super Stash HS's rear lights hidden behind a grille were often used by Franco Sbarro. (Picture from: FrancoSbarro)
Although these power figures might not seem impressive by today’s standards, it’s important to consider the context of the time. During the 1970s, many sports cars had far less power. For example, the Alpine A110 produced only 95 hp, and even a Ferrari 308 managed just 255 hp. Against this backdrop, the Stash’s performance was quite impressive. The version fitted with the Mercedes 6.9-liter engine could reach a top speed of 240 km/h, putting it on par with contemporary sports cars like the Ferrari 308.
A year after its debut, in 1975, the Stash caught the attention of famed fashion designer Pierre Cardin. He presented his version of the Stash at the Salon de Paris, adding his signature touch to the vehicle. While the exterior changes were minimal—marked mainly by a blue band on the side featuring Cardin's signature—the interior received a significant makeover.
The Sbarro Stash Cardin made its debut at the 1975 Salon de Paris. (Picture from: FrancoSbarro)
The dashboard was now made of painted lamellar rubber, and the seats, carpets, and roof lining were adorned with stylish stripes, adding a luxurious and modern feel to the car’s cabin. Despite these changes, the Volkswagen mechanics remained unchanged, indicating that the modifications were primarily focused on aesthetics rather than performance.
The
Sbarro Stash Cardin features minimal exterior changes, marked mainly by
a blue band on the side featuring Cardin's signature. (Picture from: GTPlanet)
Cardin’s involvement in the design of the car was emphasized in promotional materials, with brochures claiming that the car was created by Pierre Cardin in collaboration with Sbarro. This led to some tension, as Sbarro himself likely didn't appreciate this assertion, considering that the modifications were largely superficial. However, in the eyes of many, the Stash and Pierre Cardin became closely associated, further elevating the car’s unique status.
Pierre Cardin designed a painted lamellar rubber interior and striped carpets for the Stash. (Picture from: FrancoSbarro)
Unfortunately, the Sbarro Stash was never produced in large numbers. Only five units were ever sold, making it an extremely rare vehicle today. Despite its practical design, appealing looks, and relatively affordable price, the Stash didn't achieve widespread recognition. Its scarcity only adds to the mystique surrounding it, and today, these cars are nearly impossible to trace, with their current whereabouts remaining a mystery. | iIbWPPJ_qLo |
The story of the Sbarro Stash is a reminder of the many hidden gems in the automotive world that, despite their potential, never reached the prominence they deserved. Yet, for those who know about it, the Stash remains a symbol of innovative design and rare beauty, a car that continues to intrigue and inspire, even as it slips further into the shadows of history. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SBARRO.PHCALVET.FR | GTPLANET | LOTUSESPRITTURBO | AUTOMOBILE-CATALOG | HISTORICAUTOPRO | COACHBUILD | WIKIPEDIA ]
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⚒️MAESTRO Legacy - When we think of Italian names in the automotive world, many renowned figures might come to mind. However, one name that might not be as familiar is Ilario Bandini. Born in 1911 in the small town of Forlì, Italy, Bandini grew up as the son of a farmer. Despite his humble beginnings and limited formal education—having only taken a mechanic course—he went on to become an influential figure in the world of motorsports and car manufacturing. His journey from a self-taught mechanic to a celebrated car builder is as remarkable as it is inspiring.
The
Bandini 750 Sport Siluro featured with a widened front fender and a
shrill loudly screaming 750cc engine managed to won the SCCA class
championships in 1955 and 1957. (Picture from: CarType)
ONE-OFF - The world of exotic cars is often celebrated for its blend of unique styling and cutting-edge engineering, but few examples capture this spirit as vividly as those crafted during the mid-20th century. In a fascinating era where American and Italian design philosophies intersected, European manufacturers eagerly responded to the growing demand for distinctive automobiles in the American market. This fusion of styles, known as Stile Transatlantico, produced some truly remarkable concept cars, with Alfa Romeo’s Berlina Aerodinamica Tecnica (B.A.T.) being a quintessential example of this creative era.
Today, this exceptional Abarth 209 A Coupé by Boano can be admired at the Louwman Museum in The Hague, Netherlands, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of automotive excellence. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
The allure of these exotic vehicles extends beyond their aesthetic appeal, reaching into the realm of engineering innovation. One of the standout figures from this period was Mario Felice Boano, an acclaimed designer known for his work with Carrozzeria Ghia. When Boano established his own carrozzeria in 1954, he sought to capitalize on the burgeoning American sports car market. Partnering with the renowned exhaust specialist Carlo Abarth, Boano aimed to craft an Italian machine that would cater specifically to American tastes. Their collaboration was not new; Boano and Abarth had previously worked together during Boano's tenure at Ghia.
The Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano, a standout model in this series, was built around a simple yet effective boxed pressed-steel platform chassis. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
A particularly rare and intriguing creation from this collaboration was a series of cars built on the Fiat 1100 platform. Commissioned by Tony Pompeo, a New York-based distributor for Abarth and other Italian brands, this series consisted of twelve unique vehicles tailored for the American market. It included ten Abarth 207A Spyders, which were specifically designed for the 12 Hours of Sebring, as well as one each of the Abarth 208A Spyder and 209A Coupé intended for road use.
Inside the car, the driver enjoys a comfortable cockpit with an easy-to-read dashboard featuring a speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge, complemented by adjustable bucket seats for maximum support during high-performance driving. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
Each shared the same basic lines penned for Boano by Giovanni Michelotti. The 208A and 209A were unveiled at the 1955 Turin Motor Show, where they were displayed alongside the 207A, which had been introduced earlier that year. This showcase highlighted the exceptional design and engineering prowess of Boano and Abarth.
The Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano, powered by a modified Fiat 1100 four-cylinder engine, saw its output boosted from 36 to 66 horsepower through Abarth's tuning. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
The Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano, a standout model in this series, was built around a simple yet effective boxed pressed-steel platform chassis. While this chassis might not have been the most advanced of its time, it provided the flexibility needed to accommodate a variety of body styles. The 209A Coupé was particularly notable for its exotic design features, including high wheel arches, retractable headlights, a sporty stainless steel exhaust pipe on the right, and panoramic windows.
The
Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano was particularly notable for its exotic
design features, including high wheel arches, retractable headlights, a
sporty stainless steel exhaust pipe on the right, and panoramic windows. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
Underneath its striking exterior, the Abarth 209A Coupé housed a modified version of the Fiat 1100’s four-cylinder engine. Abarth's tuning boosted the engine's output from a modest 36 horsepower to a more robust 66 horsepower. Despite these enhancements, the car's wheelbase, length, and width remained consistent with its Spyder counterparts, while its height and curb weight were slightly increased to accommodate the coupe’s distinctive design elements. Today, this exceptional vehicle can be admired at the Louwman Museum in The Hague, Netherlands, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of automotive excellence. | E8UIK_ygV3U |
In reflecting on the legacy of these remarkable cars, it's clear that their creation was not merely about blending styles but about pushing the boundaries of automotive design. The partnership between Boano and Abarth stands as a testament to innovation and a deep understanding of the market's desires, showcasing how American and Italian influences can come together to create something truly extraordinary. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LOUWMANMUSEUM | COACHBUILD | ULTIMATECARPAGE | ROARONGTON | AUTOMOBILECATALOG ]
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Rare GEMS - In the world of automotive design, the 1970s were a period of bold experimentation and innovation. One of the most striking examples of this era is the Jaguar Ascot, a concept car that stood out with its distinctive wedge-shaped design. Revealed at the 1977 Turin Motor Show by Stile Bertone, the Ascot was a daring departure from traditional Jaguar aesthetics, capturing the essence of the 1970s with its futuristic lines and bold approach.
The Jaguar Ascot, a concept car that stood out with its distinctive wedge-shaped design by Stile Bertone, revealed at the 1977 Turin Motor Show. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)
The Jaguar Ascot was the brainchild of Marcello Gandini, the design chief at Bertone, known for his disruptive and avant-garde designs. His previous works, like the Lamborghini Countach, had already set a precedent for sharp, aggressive lines and innovative styling. The Ascot continued this design philosophy, featuring a sleek, wedge-like profile with straight lines and sharp edges. This design direction was a significant shift from the more rounded and flowing lines typically associated with Jaguar.
The
Jaguar Ascot was the brainchild of Marcello Gandini, the design chief
at Bertone, featuring a sleek, wedge-like profile with straight lines
and sharp edges similar to the Lamborghini Countach. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Retaining the mechanical heart of the Jaguar XJ-S, the Ascot was powered by a 5.3-liter V12 engine. This powertrain was paired with the same platform and wheelbase as the XJ-S, ensuring that the Ascot maintained the high-performance standards expected from a Jaguar. However, Gandini’s design made the Ascotshorter and lighter, enhancing its practicality without compromising on performance.
The
Jaguar Ascot's front was aggressive and thrusting, with a pronounced
overhang and sharp creases that gave it a dynamic, arrow-like
appearance. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
One of the standout features of the Ascot was its rakish hatchback design, a practical yet stylish choice that maximized rear passenger headroom and boot space. The front of the car was aggressive and thrusting, with a pronounced overhang and sharp creases that gave it a dynamic, arrow-like appearance. This bold styling was a clear reflection of the 1970s design ethos, where sharp angles and dramatic lines were celebrated.
Despite its striking design, the Ascot was a highly controversial car. Its departure from traditional Jaguar design elements caused quite a stir among purists and the press. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Despite its striking design, the Ascot was a highly controversial car. Its departure from traditional Jaguar design elements caused quite a stir among purists and the press. However, the Ascot’s influence extended beyond its initial reception. Several design elements from the Ascot, such as the wheel arches and fastback rear, were later seen in Gandini’s other works, including the Reliant FW11, the Citroen BX, and the Reliant SE82. This cross-pollination of design ideas underscored the Ascot’s impact on automotive design.
The interior of the Jaguar Ascot was a contemporary mix of light brown leather and brown suede, including a practical compartment on each door. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The Ascot’s design not only provided a unique aesthetic but also offered practical benefits. The fastback rear treatment significantly increased rear passenger headroom and boot space, making the Ascot more user-friendly while retaining its compact form. This blend of style and practicality was a hallmark of Gandini’s design approach, emphasizing that a car could be both beautiful and functional.
The fastback rear treatment significantly increased rear passenger headroom and boot space, making the Ascot more user-friendly while retaining its compact form. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The Jaguar Ascot remains a fascinating chapter in the history of automotive design. It represents a time when designers were unafraid to push boundaries and challenge conventions. The Ascot’s wedge-shaped profile, sharp lines, and innovative features encapsulate the spirit of the 1970s, a decade defined by bold creativity and a willingness to explore new ideas. | E9C8EzkmE68 |
The story of the Jaguar Ascot is one of innovation and bold design choices. It serves as a reminder of the importance of daring to be different, and how such boldness can lead to timeless designs that continue to inspire. The Ascot’s legacy lives on, not just in the cars that followed, but in the continued appreciation of 1970s design and its enduring impact on the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JAGUAR | MAGAZINE.DERIVAZ-IVES | CARDESIGNNEWS ]
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ONE-OFF - The end of World War II in 1945 marked the beginning of a new chapter for the automotive industry. Factories, which had been dedicated to wartime production, shifted their focus back to creating vehicles for civilian use. This shift spurred significant advancements in both engineering and design, transforming the automotive landscape and fostering innovation and creativity globally.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano featured striking rear tailfins and bright, two-tone paint schemes, capturing the spirit of the 1950s American dream. (Picture from: RMSothebys)
In post-war America, the car market thrived with vibrant and dynamic designs. Influenced by the Space Race, cars of the era featured striking rear tailfins that resembled rockets and airplanes, with each year bringing more elaborate designs. The bright, two-tone paint schemes captured the spirit of the 1950s American dream, showcased by iconic models from Chevrolet, Pontiac, Cadillac, and Ford.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano designed by Giovanni Michelotti for Carrozzeria Boano, was crafted to appeal to the American market with its stylish looks. (Picture from: Carscoops)
European car manufacturers, eager to enter the American market, began creating unique concept cars with bold, space-age designs. This fusion of American and Italian styling became known as Stile Transatlantico, with Alfa Romeo’s Berlina Aerodinamica Tecnica (B.A.T.) cars being prime examples of this innovative approach.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano’s lightweight chassis and precise handling made it a true driver’s machine. (Picture from: Auto.cz)
Abarth, an automotive company founded in 1949, was keen to make a name for itself both in Italy and internationally. Embracing the Stile Transatlantico, Abarth in collaboration with Boano created a series of distinctive cars. Among them were the racing-oriented 207 ASpyder, the road-going208 A Spyder, and the 209 A Coupé. The 207 A had a limited production run of ten units, while the 208 A and 209 Awere unique one-offs. These cars were showcased at the 1955 Turin Motor Show, underscoring Boano and Abarth’s design and engineering prowess.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano features a unique custom exhaust header mounted on the right side of the car.(Picture from: Auto.cz)
The Abarth 208 A Spyder, designed by Giovanni Michelotti for Carrozzeria Boano, was crafted to appeal to the American market with its stylish looks. However, beneath its sleek exterior, the car retained a distinctly Italian character. It featured a lightweight chassis and a small yet powerful engine. Much of its mechanical components were derived from the Fiat 1100, including the suspension and a 1,089 cc four-cylinder engine. With Abarth’s tuning kit, which included twin-Weber carburetors and a custom exhaust header, the engine produced 66 bhp.
The Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano’s cabin features a three-spoke steering wheel, a dashboard with a set of gauges, and two seats covered in genuine black and creamy white leather, with the gear-shift lever positioned above a divider.(Picture from: Voi.id)
The 208 A Spyder found its way to the United States, imported by Tony Pompeo, a New York-based distributor for Abarth and other Italian brands. After the Turin Motor Show in 1955, it was purchased by the Du Pont brothers, heirs to a chemical fortune and avid motor racing enthusiasts, who later passed it on to a friend. The car remained unused for over 30 years until Etceterini collector Elad Shraga acquired it in 2009. Found in remarkably original condition, it underwent minor repairs to preserve its originality, with the mechanical components restored to make it roadworthy.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano is powered by a 1,089 cc four-cylinder engine enhanced with Abarth’s tuning kit, including twin-Weber carburetors, producing 66 bhp. (Picture from: Voi.id)
The Abarth 208 A Spyder was displayed only once at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in 2013. Despite its rarity and historical significance, it remained a private treasure until it was sold to its current owner. Recently, the car received a bare-metal repaint in its original colors in Italy, supervised by Corrado Lopresto, costing over €30,000. This restoration was done to concours-level conditions, solidifying the car’s status as an icon of Stile Transatlantico and a significant piece of Abarth’s early history.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder’s status as an icon of Stile Transatlantico and a significant piece of Abarth’s early history. (Picture from: Voi.id)
The Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano represents a remarkable blend of American and Italian design influences from the post-war era. According to Barnfinds in May 2024, the Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano was listed among the cars auctioned privately by RM Sotheby's, with an asking price of €795,000.
Its unique history and exceptional originality make it a valuable addition to any collection, admired for its innovative design and rich heritage. As it continues to capture the imagination of automotive enthusiasts worldwide, this rare gem is poised for a future as bright as its past. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RMSOTHEBYS | CARSCOOPS | AUTO.CZ | POSTWARCLASSIC | BARNFINDS | MODERNCARCOLLECTOR | THEMUSEUMOFCARS ]
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