Unique ONES - In the world of modern auto design, events like the Geneva Motor Show stand out as hubs of innovation and creativity. These prestigious gatherings have witnessed the debut of numerous concept cars that push the boundaries of traditional design. While many of these concepts showcase sleek lines and futuristic aesthetics, there are also those that defy convention with their unusual, and sometimes downright weird designs. The Sbarro Espera Evoluzione Concept, for instance, is a perfect example for anyone seeking a vehicle with a distinctive appearance.
The Sbarro Espera Evoluzione Concept is an eye-popping mix of various themes: it takes Lamborghini's recent efforts at making drivable razors, puts in a spoonful of motorcycle, and then adds McLaren F1-style seating. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Unique ONES - Diving into the world of rare and obscure automobiles often reveals fascinating stories, and the Fortvac Bernardi is a perfect example. Originating from Quebec-based auto company Fortvac Automobile Canada Inc., this car showcases a blend of design and performance that many car enthusiasts have yet to discover. The Fortvac Bernardi, rooted in the Cimbria kit cars, distinguishes itself with its central placement of American engine, offering a spectrum of options from V6 engines to the powerful 455cid V8 drivetrain.
The Fortvac Bernardi was designed with a sleek, aerodynamic body featuring gull-wing doors, a signature of exotic and high-performance cars. (Picture from: OldCarJunkie)
The Fortvac Bernardi was designed with a sleek, aerodynamic body featuring gull-wing doors, a signature of exotic and high-performance cars. The car's dimensions include a 98-inch wheelbase and a width of 78 inches, ensuring a stable and balanced stance. With a ground clearance of just 5.5 inches, the Bernardi maintains a low profile that enhances its sporty appearance and improves aerodynamic efficiency.
The Fortvac Bernardi maintains a low profile that enhances its sporty appearance and improves aerodynamic efficiency. (Picture from: ClassicVehicleList)
Under the hood, the Fortvac Bernardi offered several engine options, showcasing its versatility and performance potential. Buyers had the choice of a 2.8L V6 engine, a robust 350 V8, or the powerful 455 Oldsmobile engine. These engines were centrally located, providing optimal weight distribution and handling. Transmission options included a four-speed manual for those who relish a more hands-on driving experience, or a THM425 automatic transmission, commonly found in models like the Oldsmobile Toronado and Cadillac Eldorado until 1978.
The Fortvac Bernardi's chassis was designed to deliver an engaging driving experience, featuring four-wheel independent suspension for improved handling and ride comfort.. (Picture from: Drive2)
The Bernardi's chassis was designed to deliver an engaging driving experience, featuring four-wheel independent suspension for improved handling and ride comfort. The inclusion of four-wheel disc brakes ensured reliable stopping power, while power steering made maneuvering the car easier. These features combined to offer a driving experience that was both thrilling and responsive.
The Fortvac Bernardi's interior is distinctly 1980s, especially with its vintage digital dashboard. (Picture from: ClassicVehicleList)
One of the most striking aspects of the Fortvac Bernardi is its rear wing, a bold design element that not only enhances the car's appearance but also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency. This wing, along with the car's low stance and sleek lines, makes the Bernardi a visually captivating vehicle.
The seats and belts are not original to the Fortvac Bernardi, but they fit well. (Picture from: MotoIQ)
Inside the cabin, the Bernardi provides a compact yet functional environment. The dashboard is simple and straightforward, reflecting the car's focus on performance rather than luxury. The roof height of just 41 inches contributes to the car's low profile, making the interior cozy and intimate. While the cabin may not be as spacious as modern vehicles, it offers a driver-focused layout that emphasizes control and engagement.
The Fortvac Bernardi buyers could choose from a centrally located 2.8L V6, a robust 350 V8, or a powerful 455 Oldsmobile engine, all providing optimal weight distribution and handling. (Picture from: Drive2)
The forward-tilting hood of the Bernardi reveals a unique layout, with the fuel tank and filler location positioned under the hood, along with the master cylinder and windshield washer tank. This configuration highlights the car's innovative design, prioritizing weight distribution and accessibility.
One of the most striking aspects of the Fortvac Bernardi is its rear wing, a bold design element that not only enhances the car's appearance but also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency. (Picture from: OldCarJunkie)
The Fortvac Bernardi stands as a remarkable achievement in automotive design and engineering. Its combination of a unique body, powerful engine options, and advanced chassis components make it a noteworthy example of a rare and innovative sports car. The Bernardi's legacy is a testament to the creativity and determination of its creators, and it remains a fascinating chapter in the history of automotive design.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive world, the Fortvac Bernardi continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its rarity and distinct features make it a prized possession for those fortunate enough to encounter one. As a symbol of Canadian innovation and engineering prowess, the Fortvac Bernardi will always hold a special place in the annals of automotive history. This car is not just a vehicle; it's a piece of art, a testament to the daring spirit of its creators, and a reminder of the endless possibilities in automotive design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BARNFINDS | OLDCARJUNKIE | CLASSICVEHICLELIST | MOTOIQ | DRIVE2.RU | CAR & DESIGN ON FACEBOOK ]
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💣Out of Sight⛔ - Creating something new with abundant experience and their own resources is immensely satisfying. This sentiment likely inspired Carrozzeria Ghia to embark on the journey of building their own car, having already crafted numerous exceptional vehicles for clients in America and Europe. This passion led to the inception of the Ghia G230 Sin the early 1960s, marking one of their first fully completed cars, with significant help from several compatriot companies.
The Ghia G230 S Coupé emerged as a visionary reinterpretation of the Fiat 2300 S platform, blending classic elegance with modern engineering. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Ghia's ambitious project designed by Sergio Sartorelli, who had already designed the legendary VW Karmann-Ghia along with Luigi Serge. It began with the Fiat 2300 S platform, but they knew enhancements were necessary. The chassis of the Fiat was deemed too rudimentary, prompting Ghia to seek assistance from Gilco, an esteemed Italian company known for designing and constructing chassis for Ferrari.
To ensure perfection, Gilco tasked its most skilled engineer, Gioacchino Colombo, to lead the design team for what would eventually become the G230 S Concept. Drawing inspiration from his acclaimed Maserati Birdcage racing, this innovative approach laid a strong foundation for the new car.
The first Ghia G230 S, including a stunning silver model, a distinctive green variant, and two Spider versions, made its debut at the 1963 Turin Motor Show. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The transformation didn’t stop there. Ghia opted to upgrade the Fiat engine, disc brakes, gearbox, and axles with superior Abarth components. This decision was strategic, ensuring that the car would not only perform well but also have the reliability needed for potential production. The collaboration with established names like Fiat and Abarth was crucial in maintaining high standards and ensuring sustainability.
The Ghia G230S (pictured in a stunning silver model) featured a rakish front with low-mounted twin headlights, as seen on display at the 1963 Turin Auto Show.(Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
The first Ghia G230 S made its debut at the 1963 Turin Motor Show, captivating audiences with its design and engineering prowess. Several prototypes were produced, including a stunning silver model, a distinctive green variant, and two Spider versions showcased at various international motor shows.
The vanished Ghia G230S Spider, with its low and flat proportions and pronounced rear fenders, differed from the original in both technical advancements and appearance.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Uniquely, the Ghia G230 S Spider is a one-off concept designed and built by Ghia based on the Plymouth Barracuda, features a 6L engine. Despite the promising start, the G230 S never transitioned into mass production. However, one green prototype, chassis number 114BS135700, survived the test of time and remains in pristine original condition.
The Ghia G230S was built on a tubular space frame designed and constructed by Gilco, and featured upgrades to the Fiat engine, disc brakes, gearbox, and axles using superior Abarth components.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
This unique prototype had an interesting journey. Initially used by Ghia for a few years, it eventually became a possession of the company’s directors. With a mere 28,000 km on the clock, it found a new home with Belgian car collector E. Thiessen in 2008 and was exhibited at the 2008 Retromobile show. The G230 S stands as a testament to Ghia’s innovative spirit and engineering excellence.
The Ghia G230S cabin is quite unremarkable, featuring only a three-spoke wooden steering wheel made by Nardi, a dashboard with three gauges, and a few buttons. (Picture from: HotCars)
Imagining a world where the Ghia G230 S battled the early Ferraris and Lamborghinis on the streets of Turin is a tantalizing thought. While this vision might remain confined to the realms of video games, it highlights the fascinating potential of Ghia’s creation. The sole surviving Ghia G230 S remains a symbol of what could have been, embodying the innovative drive and passion that fueled its creation.
The Ghia G230S also featured a Kammback rear with a large hatch and a three-piece rear windshield.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The story of the Ghia G230 S is a remarkable chapter in automotive history. It reflects the ambition and creativity of Carrozzeria Ghia, who dared to dream beyond their established role as a coachbuilder. The legacy of the G230 S, though limited to a single prototype, continues to inspire enthusiasts and reminds us of the endless possibilities that arise from combining passion with ingenuity. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | HOTCARS | CARSTYLING.RU | CLASSICDRIVER | MOTODINOZA ]
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Mysteriuos Breeds - For decades, the idea of a four-door Ferrari seemed inconceivable. The legendary brand was synonymous with sleek sports coupes and roadsters, steadfastly sticking to its roots, largely due to Enzo Ferrari's aversion to straying from this tradition. However, with the introduction of the Purosangue, Ferrari's first SUV, the landscape has shifted.
The elegant and clean lines of the Ferrari Pinin were designed by Diego Ottina under the direction of Pininfarina’s head of design, Leonardo Fioravanti. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
Yet, this isn’t Ferrari's first venture into the four-door territory. Nearly four decades before the SUV’s debut, Ferrari, in collaboration with Carrozzeria Pininfarina, attempted to create a four-door sedan, famously known as the Ferrari Pinin Concept, was unveiled in 1980 at the Salone Internazionale dell'Automobile Torino, or Turin Motor Show, to celebrate Pininfarina’s 50th anniversary. The concept also made an appearance at the Los Angeles Auto Show that same year.
The Ferrari Pinin was unveiled in 1980 at the Salone Internazionale dell'Automobile Torino, or Turin Motor Show, to celebrate Pininfarina’s 50th anniversary. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
Initially, it was conceived as a design study, a vehicle without an engine or drivetrain, but it showcased several revolutionary design elements and aerodynamic features. Leonardo Fioravanti was responsible for the Pinin's design, working with Diego Ottina, who created the initial silhouette. The most striking feature was its flush glazing. Years before Audi introduced its sleek 100 saloon with a drag coefficient of 0.30, the Pinin achieved a Cd of about 0.35.
The Ferrari Pinin's grille was flanked by 'Homofocal' headlights developed by Lucas, featuring multi-reflectors for brighter illumination. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
The heavily tinted glass disguised the pillars, creating the illusion of a continuous sheet of glass around the car, achieved by bonding the glass to black-painted pillars. This design, while visually impressive, had the flaw of non-opening windows. The windscreen wipers were hidden behind a retractable flap at the base, and the door handles were flush, concealed within a recessed belt line along the body.
The Ferrari Pinin’s dimensions were impressive, with an axle distance of 108.7 inches, comparable to the Mercedes-Benz 280 sedan. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
The grille was flanked by 'Homofocal' headlights developed by Lucas, featuring multi-reflectors for brighter illumination. Unlike traditional headlamps, the Pinin's lower, sleeker lights produced more light, eliminating the need for pop-up lights to achieve a low bonnet line. The Carello-made rear lamps, known as High Contrast illumination, were much brighter than usual. When not lit, they blended seamlessly with the body color, making them almost invisible.
The heavily tinted glass disguised the pillars, creating the illusion of a continuous sheet of glass around the car, achieved by bonding the glass to black-painted pillars. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
Inside, the Ferrari Pinin boasted luxurious Connolly leather upholstery and a computerized control system that seemed straight out of a science fiction film from that era. The car’s dimensions were impressive, with an axle distance of 108.7 inches, comparable to the Mercedes-Benz 280 sedan, providing ample legroom and comfort for passengers.
The Ferrari Pinin Concept may not be red, but the all-Ferrari attitude remains, even with four doors. (Picture from: Roarington)
Despite Enzo Ferrari’s initial consideration of the Pinin as a production model, it was never realized. The extensive funding and development required to transition the Pinin from prototype to production proved insurmountable. Ultimately, Ferrari’s executives decided against it, leaving the Pinin as a one-off concept that would eventually join a private collection.
The Ferrari Pinin's interior boasts opulent Connolly leather upholstery and an advanced computerized control system, reminiscent of a science fiction film from that era. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
There was speculation that Fiat, which owns Ferrari, might produce the Pinin. However, Fiat chose to focus on smaller, more affordable models like the Fiat Uno. Consequently, the Pinin concept was shelved, deemed unprofitable. It remained in the Pininfarina Museum Collection until 1993, when it was purchased by Belgian collector Jacques Swaters, a Ferrari brand importer and the man behind Ecurie Francorchamps.
The Ferrari Pinin's two rear seats underline the sporting nature of the car that demanded that each occupant was sat firmly in place. (Picture from: Roarington)
In 2008, the Ferrari Pinin found a new owner, Gabrielle Candrini, the manager of Maranello Purosangue, a purveyor of some of the world's finest historic Ferraris, based near the Ferrari factory. Under the guidance of Ferrari expert Ing. Mauro Forghieri, Candrini restored the Pinin to full operational status.
The Ferrari Pinin as it looks today after the engineer Mauro Forghieri transformed it into a running vehicle by mounting an authentic 12-cylinder engine of the 512BB. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
The restoration included equipping the car with a 5.0-liter flat-12 engine, identical to those in the Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer and Testarossa of the same era, and a 400GT gearbox. The suspension and braking systems were also upgraded. Now, the Ferrari Pinin can perform like any regular car, boasting up to 360 horsepower.
The Ferrari Pinin features a very classic rear, that doesn’t push the stylistic boundaries of the brand, but remains highly functional. (Picture from: Roarington)
The Ferrari Pinin has since graced various prestigious automotive events, including the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed and the Concours of Trieste. It has also been displayed at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, celebrated as 'The Great Ferrari of Sergio Pininfarina'. After remaining unsold at several auctions from 2010 to 2011, the Pinin finally returned to Maranello Purosangue. It was then sold to a US-based enthusiast, who, it is hoped, now uses it at least occasionally, although the car seems to have disappeared from public view. | 3prbrwISZa8 |
This unique piece of automotive history reflects Ferrari’s willingness to explore new frontiers while honoring its heritage. The Ferrari Pinin Concept, though never mass-produced, continues to captivate car enthusiasts and stands as a remarkable chapter in Ferrari’s storied legacy. The car symbolizes both the brand's innovative spirit and its commitment to excellence, ensuring that Ferrari remains at the forefront of automotive design and performance. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARBUZZ | ROARINGTON | CARTHROTTLE | BELOW-THE-RADAR | WEIRDWHEELS ]
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Weird ONES - Curiosity immediately sparked when we first encountered the unique classic vehicle from the 1930s, reputed to be the first streamlined car produced by a manufacturer from Czechoslovakia. This intriguing vehicle is the 1931 Wikov 35 Kapka, an experimental car with only six units ever produced by Wichterle & Kovářik (WiKov), a Czechoslovakian agricultural machinery factory in Prostějov. WiKov was active in producing agricultural machines, cars and trucks from 1925 to 1937, marking a notable chapter in automotive history.
The Wikov 35 Kapka, the first Czech streamlined car (c.1931). (Picture from: 亗 Dr. Emporio Efikz 亗)
Classic Rares - Curiosity often leads us to discover fascinating and unique automobiles, and the OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale is one such captivating find. Our initial encounter with this exceptional car happened while surfing the internet, sparking a desire to delve deeper into its history and share its story with you.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale is a remarkable piece of automotive history that traces its roots back to the Maserati brothers and Carrozzeria Vignale. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale is a remarkable piece of automotive history that traces its roots back to the Maserati brothers. The name "MT4" stands for "Maserati Tipo 4 Cilindri," highlighting the heritage and engineering prowess behind its creation. OSCA, which stands for Officine Specializzate Costruzione Automobili, was founded in 1947 by three Maserati brothers with a vision to build small, high-performance racing cars.
The
OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale features with distinctive styling elements
such as cutaway flanks, a zig-zag waistline, a crisply outlined nose,
and minimal front overhang. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Their innovative approach led them to develop engines based on Fiat’s 1092cc block, enhanced with OSCA’s own aluminum cylinder head. By 1950, they introduced a new twin-cam head, boosting the engine's power to an impressive 100 bhp. This marked the beginning of a broader range of car bodies, expanding from barchetta designs to elegant berlinettas crafted by renowned designers Frua and Vignale.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale made its debut at the 1955 Turin Motor Show, and highlighting the heritage and engineering prowess behind its creation. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The OSCA MT4 quickly became a symbol of Italian sports car excellence. The Maserati brothers, despite selling their original company and losing the right to use their name, continued to showcase their engineering talent through OSCA. One of the most stunning examples of their work was the MT4 Berlinetta Vignale, which made its debut at the 1955 Turin Motor Show. This all-alloy coupe captured the attention of its first owner, Monsieur J.C. Abreu, a French enthusiast who appreciated the car's unique design and performance.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale all-alloy coupe captured the attention of its first owner, Monsieur J.C. Abreu, a French enthusiast who appreciated the car's unique design and performance. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Only four original Berlinettas were produced by OSCA, with three featuring Vignale coachwork (chassis 1120, 1136, and 1153) and one with Frua coachwork (chassis 1113). Each car boasted exquisite details, such as rare OSCA and Vignale badging, king-size Jaeger instrumentation, the original horn button in the steering wheel, and Marchal lights. The factory even fitted the car with custom-made luggage, complete with the original keys, a plexiglass rear screen, bespoke rear lights, an alloy filler cap in the boot, and an original tool bag and kit with the chassis number stamped on it.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale features with distinctive styling elements such as cutaway flanks, a zig-zag waistline, a crisply outlined nose, and minimal front overhang. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
OSCA cars were renowned for being small, lightweight, reliable, and expensive. The MT4, in particular, was a standout model developed for both Formula Libre (F2) and sports car racing. It achieved significant success on the track, dominating its class in prestigious races like the Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, and Le Mans. One of the most notable victories came at the 12 Hours of Sebring, where an MT4 driven by Lloyd Cunningham and Stirling Moss clinched a glorious win for Cunningham's team.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale also adorned with a plexiglass rear screen, bespoke rear lights, an alloy filler cap in the boot. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Berlinetta Vignale's design was the work of the carrozzeria Michelotti, known for its distinctive styling elements such as cutaway flanks, a zig-zag waistline, a crisply outlined nose, and minimal front overhang. This particular model was commissioned by Turin chemist Mario Damonte to compete in the 1952 24 Hours of Le Mans. Unfortunately, Damonte and his co-driver Fernand Lacour retired after 19 hours due to clutch trouble. However, the following year, Damonte returned with co-driver Pierre-Louis Dreyfus, and they secured a win in the 1100 cc class.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale also adorned with a plexiglass rear screen, bespoke rear lights, an alloy filler cap in the boot. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Ownership of this unique car passed to Maria Luisa Zamberini, another Turin resident, in 1954. The car then disappeared into a private collection from 1956 until it resurfaced in Japan in 1997, adding another layer of intrigue to its storied past, and was acquired by its previous owner in 2005. The most important aspect of this car is that it is entirely original, and has never been restored. It is a 'time warp' machine with an elegant body style and a wonderful patina. The current owner purchased the car twice - once in 2010 and again in 2016 after it was owned by OSCA collector Elad Shraga.
One of only three, the 1955 OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale with chassis number 1153. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale stands as a symbol of resilience and ingenuity, embodying the Maserati brothers' ability to overcome financial obstacles and continue producing extraordinary vehicles. Its story, from its conception by talented engineers to its victories on the race track and its journey across continents, reflects the enduring passion and creativity that drive automotive innovation.
Exploring the history of the OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale has been a journey through time, showcasing the brilliance and determination of the Maserati brothers. This car not only represents a significant achievement in automotive engineering but also serves as a reminder of the spirit of innovation that continues to inspire car enthusiasts and designers around the world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CONCEPTCARZ | SUPERCARS.NET | ULTIMATECARPAGE ]
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What If - When the 1965 Mustang hit the market and set unprecedented sales records, Ford was already envisioning the future, exploring design concepts that ranged from two-seaters to the possibility of a four-door model. However, while Ford was dreaming big, a more radical idea was brewing across the Atlantic in England.
The 1965 Ford Mustang that benefited from the
Ferguson all-wheel-drive system and received early ABS brake system, sat on display at the Tampa Bay Auto Museum. (Picture from: Wikimedia)
This idea wasn't just about redesigning a car; it was about completely rethinking how a car should perform on the road. The concept came from Ferguson Research, a company that was backed by Harry Ferguson, the man behind Massey Ferguson tractors. At the heart of this innovative company were two former race drivers, Fred Dixon and Tony Rolt.
The 1965 Ford Mustang that benefited from the
Ferguson all-wheel-drive system and received early ABS brake system, looked just like any other Mustang on the outside. (Picture from: Hagerty)
They were the masterminds behind a groundbreaking four-wheel-drive (4WD) system, designed specifically for passenger cars. But their innovation didn't stop there. They also adapted Dunlop’s Maxaret anti-skid braking system, initially developed for aircraft landing gear, for automotive use. This adaptation laid the foundation for what we know today as the ABS system.
The 4WD system developed by Ferguson and installed in the 1965 Ford Mustang was a full-time system, meaning power was continuously sent to all four wheels. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Their 4WD system, known as the Ferguson Formula, wasn’t just an idea on paper. It was put to the test in 1961 with the Ferguson P99 Formula One racecar. With Stirling Moss at the wheel, the car won the Oulton Park race, proving the effectiveness of the technology. Despite this success, Ferguson Research wasn’t content with just proving their system on the track. They wanted to see it adopted by car manufacturers around the world. Ford, always on the lookout for the next big thing, took notice.
The Ferguson P99 4WD Formula 1 racing car led legendary driver Stirling Moss to victory in the non-championship Formula One Gold Cup at Oulton Park in 1961. (Picture from: FergusonClub)
In December 1964, Ford sent two identical blue Mustangs, both equipped with the A-code 289-cid V-8 engine and automatic transmission, to Ferguson in England. The plan was simple: convert one of the Mustangs to 4WD while keeping the other one in its original state for comparison. This was no ordinary conversion. The 4WD system developed by Ferguson was full-time, meaning that power was sent to all four wheels at all times. Clutches within the system allowed the car to turn smoothly, ensuring that the Mustang could handle all kinds of driving conditions with superior traction.
The
Ferguson P99 4WD Formula 1 racing car with Stirling Moss at the wheel, testing at British Grand Prix 1961. (Picture from: FergusonClub)
The Ferguson Formula system utilized a planetary center differential, which provided a 37:63 front-to-rear torque split. This clever design allowed the front and rear wheels to turn at different speeds, keeping the 4WD system engaged at all times. To accommodate this sophisticated system, the Mustang needed some modifications, including a change from coil springs to torsion bars in the front suspension.
Interior view of the 1965 Ford Mustang that benefited from the
Ferguson all-wheel-drive system and received early ABS brake system.. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Despite these changes, the Mustang looked just like any other Mustang on the outside. But when it came to handling, it was a different story. Tests at the time reported that the 4WD Mustang performed exceptionally well, especially on slippery surfaces where it outshined its two-wheel-drive counterparts. The Maxaret anti-skid braking system, although purely mechanical and not as advanced asthe electronic ABS systems that came later, played a key role in improving the car's safety and performance.
The Ferguson 4WD system installed in the 1965 Ford Mustang utilized a planetary center differential, which provided a 37:63 front-to-rear torque split.(Picture from: BringATrailer)
If this all sounds familiar, it’s because the same Ferguson Formula 4WD system later found its way into the world’s first production car with full-time 4WD: the 1966 Jensen FF. This model was an offshoot of the Jensen Interceptor luxury coupe, and the “FF” in its name stood for Ferguson Formula, a nod to the innovative technology that powered it.
The 1965 Ford Mustang was equipped with Ferguson's 4WD system, powered by an A-code 289-cid V-8 engine and an automatic transmission.(Picture from: BringATrailer)
Ford's reaction to the 4WD Mustang's performance is not fully known, but the likely reason it never made it to production was cost. Adding the 4WD system would have likely increased the price by over $500—a significant amount at the time. For context, the Mustang's most expensive engine option, the K-code high-performance 289-cid V-8, was priced at $328 and was rarely ordered. The cost likely made the 4WD option an impractical choice for mass production.
The Jensen FF, where "FF" stands for "Ferguson Formula," was the first production car to adopt the Ferguson Formula 4WD system and was produced between 1966 and 1971. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
After its brief moment in the spotlight, the 4WD Mustang prototype returned to the United Kingdom and was stored in Ferguson’s museum on the Isle of Wight until 2007. It then changed hands and found a new home at the Tampa Bay Auto Museumin 2009, where it remains a working piece of automotive history. The museum, owned by Alain Cerf, celebrates innovation in automotive design and technology. Cerf, who also runs Polypack, Inc., a company that manufactures high-tech packaging machinery, has a deep appreciation for technological advancements.
Rear three-quarter view of the 1965 Ford Mustang that benefited from the Ferguson all-wheel-drive system and received early ABS brake system. (Picture from: Wikimedia)
Among the other innovative vehicles in the Tampa Bay Auto Museum is one of the 22 English Ford Zephyr sedans that Ferguson Research converted to 4WD for testing by British police forces in the late 1960s. This collection, including the unique 4WD Mustang, stands as a testament to the forward-thinking minds that dared to push the boundaries of automotive engineering. | 3iC9eHF1Hck |
In a world where the Mustang is celebrated for its iconic design and performance, it’s fascinating to think about what could have been if Ford had chosen to embrace Ferguson’s vision. The 4WD Mustang, although never mass-produced, remains a symbol of innovation and the relentless pursuit of better performance, even if that pursuit sometimes takes us down roads less traveled. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERGUSONCLUB | TAMPA BAY AUTO MUSEUM | MUSTANGSPECS | HAGERTY | BRINGATRAILER | MOTORAUTHORITY ]
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