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Saturday, December 30, 2023

Luigi Colani's GT: A Flashback to 1960s Bio-Design Brilliance

Maestro WORKS - Embarking on a journey into the innovative world of industrial design, Luigi 'Lutz' Colani stands out as a true virtuoso. In our exploration of his remarkable legacy, we uncover the realm of bio-design, a concept he boldly pioneered during the 1960s.
Colani unveiled the Colani GT, a kit car that officially hit the roads in 1962 based on Volkswagen Beetle 1200. (Picture from: Auta5p.eu)
Luigi Colani
, renowned for his design brilliance, carved a niche by mimicking various dynamic forms found in nature. His bio-design language, characterized by exaggerated roundness, breathes life into objects, infusing them with dynamism and vitality. The result is a collection of designs that are both quirky and uniquely captivating.
The construction of the Colani GT Spyder involved three distinct pieces—front, rear, and central parts—underscoring Colani's commitment to simplicity. (Picture from: AutoRevue.at)
Colani's creative journey took root after his studies in sculpture in Berlin and aerodynamics at the Sorbonne in Paris from 1946 to 1948. Transitioning into the role of a styling consultant for Fiat in the mid-1950s, he briefly explored the Californian aeronautical industry before venturing into racing boat design, including a noteworthy catamaran. Notably, he contributed to the styling concept of the BMW 700 in 1959.
Inside the Colani GT, the vintage VW steering wheel, streamlined dashboard, adjustable original Colani seats, and well-executed switchgear, dash lights, and center tunnel carpeting are all nicely done by the looks of things. (Picture from: AutoRevue.at)
In 1960, Colani unveiled the Colani GT, a kit car that officially hit the roads in 1962. This low-slung, tear-drop-profiled open sportscar, and later rebranded as the Colani Whippet in 1964, rode on a standard Volkswagen Beetle platform, featuring either a rear-mounted Volkswagen or Porsche 356 engine.
Besides embodying speed, agility, and efficiency, the Colani GT was envisioned as the epitome of a compact, lightweight, and uncomplicated sportscar. (Picture from: AutoRevue.at)
The Colani GT, embodying speed, agility, and efficiency, was envisioned as the epitome of a compact, lightweight, and uncomplicated sportscar. Inside, 356 gauges continue the Porsche theme, and a the shifter is topped with a wooden T-handle knob. Original Colani seats appear to be on sliders, and switchgear, dash lights, and center tunnel carpeting are all nicely done by the looks of things.
In 1964, Colani enhanced his GT's design by incorporating a Perspex roof and distinctive canopy doors, including several with Gull-wing doors.. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
The construction of the Colani GT Spyder involved three distinct piecesfront, rear, and central parts—underscoring Colani's commitment to simplicity. Introduced in l'Automobile Magazine in December 1962, this compact sports coupe became a reality in the sixties as a kit car by Canadur, with 1,700 units built on the VW Kafer platform.
The then-35-year-old avant-garde industrial stylist and visionary, Luigi Colani, and his first prototype at the bottom of the impressive cliffs of the circuit of the Avus. (Picture from: Leroux.Andre.Free.fr)
In 1964, Colani enhanced his GT's design by incorporating a Perspex roof and distinctive canopy doors, including several with Gull-wing doors. This transformation led to the model's rebranding as the Colani Whippet
Young Luigi Colani behind the wheel of his inaugural GT prototype, showcasing the incorporation of a Perspex roof and distinctive canopy doors in his groundbreaking design. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
These modifications significantly boosted the car's appeal, rof esulting in the sale of hundreds of units until 1968. This metamorphosis turned ordinary Beetles into attention-grabbing, stylish vehicles that frequently adorned German concours events.
The 1965 Colani Whippet featured with a unique Gull-wing styled doors. (Picture from: Leroux.Andre.Free.fr)
It also marked the commencement of a prolific series of experimental models. In 1967, Colani patented the 'C-Form,' featuring an upturned wing enclosed in pontoon-like structures, essentially laying the foundation for the 'wing car' concept that gained prominence in Formula 1 a decade later. 
The Colani GT model evolved into the Colani GT 2 by 1974, serving as a sports version of the basic VW that Colani personally drove through the Indian subcontinent during that period. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
This innovative shape inspired various models and rolling prototypes, including the GT80, BMW M2, New RS, and more. Then in the 1970s, Colani laid the foundations for bio-design, whose organic shapes would influence design in the decades that followed.
The Colani GT 2 is said to be a 1987 model with a green finish, while sitting on display at the Luigi Colani Museum. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Meanwhile the GT model continued its evolution, transforming into the Colani GT 2 by 1974, a sports version of the basic VW that Colani personally drove through the Indian subcontinent. This vehicle was equipped with a world receiver and various extras such a unique Gull-wing styled doors. It's said that several Colani GT 2 models were produced until 1987.
The Colani GT 2 is said to be a model made in 1987 which is finished in maroon, while sitting on display at the Luigi Colani Museum. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Nevertheless, there is no conclusive information available on this matter; it's plausible that the unit, potentially from 1974, underwent restoration and experienced multiple color changes, transitioning from the original white to green and then maroon, or vice versa. What remains certain is that the unit persists to this day.
Despite encountering challenges, including the fragility of the Perspex roof and windscreen, the Colani GT and its derivatives left an enduring mark on the automotive landscape, a testament to Colani's innovation and design brilliance.. Happy Holiday... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | COLANI.ORG | LUIGICOLANIDESIGN | FESTIVALAUTOMOBILE | GOODWOOD | STORY-CARS | ALLCARINDEX | CEAUTOCLASSIC.EU | AUTA5P.EU | CARSTYLING.RU | BRINGATRAILER | RITZSITE.NL | AUTOREVUE.AT | POSTWARCLASSIC.IT | HEMMINGS | HOLLINEK.AT ]
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Friday, December 29, 2023

The Indigo Legacy: Ford's Unconventional Approach to Speed

The MOST - Concept cars offer a sneak peek into a brand's future design, although discussions about them are infrequent. The impracticality of these cars for driving, lacking crucial mechanical parts, often leads to them being mere exhibits with estimated performance figures. Now, let's delve into the captivating story of the Ford Indigo Concept, a groundbreaking prototype that challenges conventional norms.
The Ford Indigo Concept designed by Ford's visionary design and technical director, Claude Lobo, the Indigo Concept stands out from its counterparts. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)
Designed by Ford's visionary design and technical director, Claude Lobo, the Indigo Concept stands out from its counterparts. It's not just a visual experiment; it houses a fully functional engine, with two versions craftedone for exhibitions and another ready to hit the open road.
The Ford Indigo Concept's bodywotk boasts teardrop shape and minimalist interior to emphasize its racing pedigree. (Picture from: AutoClassMagazine)
The Indigo's origin story is as fascinating as its design. Inspired by Jacques Villeneuve's triumph at the Indy 500, Ford aimed to capture the essence of Indycar racing. This pursuit was fueled by the lessons learned after Michael Schumacher's 1994 F1 World Championship win with a Benetton-Ford, motivating Ford to seek success once again.
The Ford Indigo Concept's wheels, placed outside the body and covered by small black mudguards, accentuate the contrast between the vibrant red body and the black plastic cover concealing the engine. (Picture from: WhichCar)
Exploring its connection to Formula Indy race cars reveals a monocoque structure by Reynard Racing Cars. Crafted from carbon fiber, aluminum, and composites, this monocoque ensures high safety standards and optimal aerodynamics. The suspension system, inspired by Formula Indy, underwent tweaks to accommodate the dual-seater cockpit.
The Ford Indigo Concept powered by a 435-horsepower V12 engine, an evolution of the Ford Taurus's 3-liter Duratec V6. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Ford Indigo Concept is perhaps one of the most eccentric designs ever created by the American automaker. Resembling the Plymouth Prowler at first glance but boasting superior performance, it seamlessly blends form and function. The teardrop shape and minimalist interior with two comfortable leather seats emphasize its racing pedigree. With no weather protection, storage space, and a potent 6.0-liter V12 engine positioned behind the occupants' heads, the Indigo's purpose was crystal clear: speed.
The Ford Indigo Concept reveals a monocoque structure by Reynard Racing Cars, and crafted from carbon fiber, aluminum, and composites. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Not only lacking a roof and proper windscreen, the Indigo's interior was stripped down for weight savings. Equipped with a minidisc player, the roar of the engine inches away would likely drown out any tunes. The gearbox, featuring a sequential 6-speed (+ reverse), incorporates buttons on the steering wheel for shifting, with a carbon fiber clutch and an electronic hydraulic system for seamless gear changes.
The Ford Indigo Concept's interior underwent weight-saving measures, featuring a minimalist interior with two comfortable leather seats emphasize its racing pedigree. (Picture from: AutoClassMagazine)
The wheels, placed outside the body and covered by small black mudguards, accentuate the contrast between the vibrant red body and the black plastic cover concealing the engine. The teardrop shape, detachable back, fixed spoiler, and dual tailpipes make the Indigo a visual spectacle.
The teardrop shape, detachable back, fixed spoiler, and dual tailpipes make the Ford Indigo Concept a visual spectacle. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The heart of the Indigo is its 435-horsepower V12 engine, an evolution of the Ford Taurus's 3-liter Duratec V6. This powerhouse propels the lightweight (1,043 kg) Indigo from 0 to 100 kph in a mere 3.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of approximately 276 kph. The sequential 6-speed gearbox and rear-wheel drive configuration align with its racing DNA.
Although the Ford Indigo Concept never reached production, its V12 engine found further development and was used in the Aston Martin DB7 from 1999 to 2003. (Picture from: AutoClassMagazine)
Despite its potential, Ford decided against putting the Indigo into production. While the company still owns the running prototype, the show car was sold in the early 2000s and is now in private hands. Although the Indigo never reached production, its V12 engine found further development and was used in the Aston Martin DB7 from 1999 to 2003.
Today, the Indigo's futuristic shape, enhanced by HID lights on the thin front lip, evokes images of an Indy Car cruising the vast American interstate. Well, the Ford Indigo, with its distinctive design and exhilarating performance, stands as a poignant reminder of what might have been—an extraordinary addition to the roads, forever etched in automotive history. Happy Holiday... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BELOW-THE-RADAR | WIKIPEDIA | DESIGNJUDGE | AUTOCLASSMAGAZINE | SUPERCARS.NET | THEDRIVE | AUTOEVOLUTION | ROADANDTRACK | CLASSICANDSPORTSCAR | WEIRDWHEELS | WHICHCAR ]
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Thursday, December 28, 2023

Rivet by William Shatner: A Unique Landjet Experience

Unique ONES - William Shatner, the iconic 92-year-old actor best known for his role as 'Captain Kirk' in Star Trek TV series, undertook a unique cross-country journey back in the summer of 2015. Diverging from the futuristic starship of the popular TV series, Shatner embarked on this adventure in a state-of-the-art tricycle, drawing inspiration from the wings of WWII B-17 bombers, as reported by the Daily Mail on January 9, 2015.
William Shatner has accomplished a lot in his career, but this current project is something he says he's most proud of. He is riding a motorcycle 2,400 miles across the country to raise money for an American Legion Scholarship fund. (Picture from: DailyMail)
The custom-made three-wheeled vehicle, named the Rivet, is a collaborative effort between Shatner and the Illinois-based company American Wrench, known for its expertise in motorcycle fabrication. Shatner, who typically navigates the streets in a 2002 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage, is thrilled to take the Rivet on a journey from Chicago to Los Angeles.
The Rivet trike that carried William Shatner across America in 2015 was a two-seater powered by a V8 engine. (Picture from: DailyMail)
The Rivet falls under the category of what the manufacturing firm refers to as a 'Landjet'. Crafted from the ground up as a three-wheeled marvel, it features an exposed cockpit resembling a command center, with seating tailored for a captain. The powerful V8 engine produces a harmonious roar, providing a sensation of flying on the open road.
The Rivet trike draws inspiration from the wings of WWII B-17 bombers, adorned with rivets to capture the essence of aircraft wing design. (Picture from: DailyMail)
One distinctive feature of the Rivet is its single-sided front-end suspension, creating the illusion that the wheel is gracefully floating on one side. In contrast to many trikes with straight axles in the back, the Rivet boasts an independent rear suspension for enhanced maneuverability.
While the mockup shows a one-seater, the finished Rivet trike will accommodate two passengers. (Picture from: DailyMail)
While initial renderings depict a solo rider, the finished trike will accommodate two individuals and include a protective canopy. Crucially, it is designed for cruising, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for Shatner and his fellow passengers.
The overarching goal of the Rivet is not merely to showcase the pilot or the vehicle itself but to celebrate the art and craftsmanship of hand-built machines. This project embodies the spirit of preserving America's 'routes' and draws attention to the enduring allure of custom-built vehicles, combining functionality with artistic ingenuity. As the Rivet stands as a testament to innovation, paying homage to the iconic designs that inspired its creation. Happy Holiday...

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops....... *** [EKA [11012015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RIVET MOTORS | DAILYMAIL ]
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Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Sensor GTR: A Tribute to Ulf Bolumlid's Vision and Per Ajdén's Craftsmanship

ONE-OFF - Owning a dream sports car is a desire cherished by automotive enthusiasts worldwide, but the fulfillment of that dream takes on a whole new level of greatness when one can proudly say they built it with their own hands. This isn't an impossible feat, as evidenced by the success stories of privateer automakers like the Rox GT and Tomaso One, both crafted by skilled Swedish car builders.
Per Ajdén-built Sensor GTR based on Ulf Bolumlid design completed in 2018. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Among these talents is Ulf Bolumlid, a talented car builder and artist hailing from Sweden. While initially recognized for his skill in crafting custom guitars, Ulf transitioned to the world of car building in 1980, driven by his passion for bringing automotive dreams to life.
The Mania Spyder, the first production car of Ulf Bolumlid sold as a kit under his Falköping-based studio-Designs by Ulf. (Picture from: FiberClassic.org)
In 1992, Ulf achieved a significant milestone with the release of the Mania Spyder, the first production car sold as a kit under his Falköping-based studio-Designs by Ulf. After successfully selling around 50 kit cars, Ulf set his sights on a more ambitious project—the Sensor GTR, a coupe inspired by Le Mans prototypes, and early hypercars of the day like the Bugatti EB110, and McLaren F1
Per Ajdén-built Sensor GTR featured with to unique door mechanisms akin to those on Koenigsegg cars. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The car, constructed on a triangulated steel spaceframe with independent suspension and carbon-fiber or fiberglass bodywork, aimed for a weight as low as 750 kilograms in its lightest form, accommodating motors from four to twelve cylinders with up to 1,000 horsepower.
Per Ajdén-built Sensor GTR's interior with black-red trimmed seats, complemented by a three-spoke racing steering wheel and two sleek displays on the center console. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The Sensor GTR's drivetrain featured Ulf's vision of a V8 engine with a 4.5-liter displacement, delivering 450 horsepower and over 500 Nm of torque. Coupled with a Porsche 5-speed transmission, the car was equipped to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds, reaching a top speed of around 190 mph.
Per Ajdén-built Sensor GTR's tubular chassis and 344 bhp Volvo engine at rear view. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Apart from the street version, plans included a Spartan track racer named the Superlight, priced at $150,000 in turn-key form. Unfortunately, the market didn't respond as anticipated, leading to the closure of Ulf Bolumlid's studio in 2005, leaving two full size models and three body shells – in other words, the prototype was never completed.
One of the two Ulf Bolumlid' design mock-ups for Sensor GTR positioned at three-quarter front view. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The Sensor GTR's story, however, found a revival in 2016 when Per Ajdén, a Swedish colleague, acquired an original body shell with the intent to bring the car to fruition. Conducting a 3D scan, Ajdén designed a CAD model for the chassis, drivetrain, and interior, subsequently laser-cutting and welding the tubular chassis. 
One of the two Ulf Bolumlid' design mock-ups for Sensor GTR positioned at three-quarter rear view. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Per Ajdén along with his brother took the fabrication process in his own garage, from badges and trim to unique door mechanisms akin to those on Koenigsegg cars. Most car parts were either handmade or custom-made from OEM items. The suspension featured a double wishbone setup at the front, coil-overs at the rear, and Wilwood and Audi A4 components for the brakes, with a mid-mounted 344 bhp Volvo engine as the drivetrain. 
Ulf Bolumlid (left) and the Ajdén brothers with their Sensor GTR creation in the background. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The completion of the Sensor GTR in 2018 stands as a remarkable tribute to Ulf Bolumlid's vision, brought to life through Per Ajdén's expertise and meticulous attention to detail. While Ulf eventually retired after contributing to Koenigsegg's early prototype vehicles, Ajdén continues his car-building journey, with his latest creation being a replica of the Ford RS2000 rally carHappy Holiday... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AJDEN.SE | RARECOMPONENTCARS | REJSA.NU | DRIVES.TODAY | FIBERCLASSIC.ORG ]
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Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Lotus Elite: A Timeless Legacy of Lightweight Elegance

The Legends - Lotus Cars, the renowned British automotive manufacturer established by Colin Chapman in 1948, has enjoyed enduring success, captivating automotive enthusiasts worldwide with a series of exceptional production models. Notably celebrated for crafting lightweight, highly maneuverable racing cars, Lotus has left an indelible mark on the automotive industry. One of Lotus Cars' iconic creations, following the likes of the Lotus Esprit, is the Lotus Elite.
The distinguished nameplate of Lotus Elite has adorned two production models and a concept vehicle, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
This distinguished nameplate has adorned two production models and a concept vehicle, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation. The first iteration graced the automotive scene from 1957 to 1963, while its successor, the second-generation model, continued its legacy from 1974 to 1982, and the concept ones unveiled in 2010.

1. Lotus Elite Type 14
The Lotus Elite Type 14 designed by Peter Kirwan-Taylor with input from Frank Costin, the Chief Aerodynamic Engineer for the de Havilland Aircraft Company, and debuted at the Earls Court Motor Show in London in October 1957
The Lotus Elite Type 14 (in pictured 1958 model with chassis 008) designed by Peter Kirwan-Taylor with input from Frank Costin, and debuted at the Earls Court Motor Show in London in October 1957. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
Its revolutionary fiberglass monocoque construction, a departure from the traditional separate chassis and body components, marked a significant leap in automotive engineering.
The Lotus Elite Type 14's cabin boasted two cozy bucket seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and simple dashboard arrangement. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
Weighing in at a mere 504 kg, the two-seater coupe boasted a 74 cubic inch S4 'Coventry Climax' engine, generating 75 hp (55 kW). Its rear-wheel-drive system, coupled with a 4-speed manual gearbox, contributed to the Elite Type 14's remarkable performance. 
The Lotus Elite Type 14 (in pictured 1958 model with chassis 008) boasted a 74 cubic inch S4 'Coventry Climax' engine, generating 75 hp (55 kW), and weighing of a mere 504 kg. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
Notably, its aerodynamic prowess, with a drag coefficient of 0.29, facilitated an acceleration from 0-60 mph in just 9.7 seconds and a top speed of 116 mph (187 kph). Production commenced in December 1958, and over 1,000 units rolled off the assembly line during its production span until 1963.
 
2. Lotus Elite Type  75 & Type 83
A decade later, Lotus introduced the Elite S2 or Type 75 (later Elite S2.2 or Type 83), a four-passenger model designed by Oliver Winterbottom
The Lotus Elite S2 or Type 75 (in pictured 1974 model) first unveiled to public in January 1975, as a four-passenger sports car featuring a shooting brake body style and a fiberglass bodyshell mounted on a steel backbone chassis. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Unveiled in January 1975, this iteration replaced the Lotus Elan Plus 2, featuring a shooting brake body style and a fiberglass bodyshell mounted on a steel backbone chassis. 
The Lotus Elite S2 or Type 75 model's interior adorned with fancy suede, boasts a 1970s instrument cluster, evoking a nostalgic charm reminiscent of classic appliances. (Picture from: AROnline)
Powered by a 4-valve, DOHC, four-cylinder Type 907 engine, the Elite achieved a top speed of 125 mph and accelerated from 0–60 mph in 8.1 seconds
The Lotus Elite S2.2 or Type 83 (in pictured 1980 model) first unveiled to public in 1980, and powered by a larger 2,174 cc Lotus 912 engine and various enhancements. (Picture from: Pinterest)
The Type 75 transitioned to the Type 83 in 1980, incorporating a larger 2,174 cc Lotus 912 engine and various enhancements. Throughout its production from 1975 to 1982, Lotus crafted 2,535 units of these Elite models.
The Lotus Elite S2.2 or Type 83 (in pictured 1982 model) fwas produced as a four seater, and was considerably larger than previous models Type 75. (Picture from: FastestLaps)
 
3. Lotus Elite Concept
The pinnacle of this lineage was marked by the unveiling of the Lotus Elite Concept at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, promising a grand tourer experience. Unfortunately, the project faced cancellation in July 2012 due to a new cost-effective business plan initiated by the takeover of Lotus' parent company, Proton, by DRB-Hicom
The proposed 2014 Elite at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, equipped with a 5.0-litre V8 engine sourced from Lexus, offering 592 hp (441 kW) and a 0–100 km/h time as low as 3.5 seconds, was regrettably left unrealized. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The envisioned grand tourer, equipped with a 5.0-litre V8 engine sourced from Lexus, offering 592 hp (441 kW) and a 0–100 km/h time as low as 3.5 seconds, was regrettably left unrealized.

In conclusion, Lotus Cars' enduring legacy is epitomized by the iconic Lotus Elite, a symbol of lightweight elegance and automotive innovation. From the groundbreaking Type 14 to the envisioned grand tourer concept, Lotus has left an indelible mark on the world of high-performance vehicles.
As we reflect on the journey through its rich history, the Lotus Elite stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of speed, design, and driving experience. Happy Holiday...*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LOTUSCARS | WIKIPEDIA | ICONICAUCTIONEERS | ARONLINE | FASTESTLAPS | CONCEPTCARZ ]
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Monday, December 25, 2023

Into the Depths of Obscurity: The Singular Beauty of Shark S-1

ONE-OFF - Embarking on a journey to explore the realms of obscure supercars led us to the intriguing discovery of a Canadian gem that once stirred the excitement of enthusiasts on the ObscureSupercar status on the X/Twitter page. This piqued our curiosity, urging us to delve deeper into the details of this rare find.
The Shark S-1 is a single prototype ever brought to life, conceived from a dream, the three-year development journey done by Canadian engineer Rudi Huber. (Picture from: Motor24.pt)
In the vibrant landscape of super sports cars during the 80s and 90s, small companies emerged, passionately producing unique vehicles that dared to challenge the giants in the industry. The Shark S-1, however, falls into a category of its own – a category of exclusivity, with only a single prototype ever brought to life. Conceived from a dream, the three-year development journey done by Canadian engineer Rudi Huber saw the creation of a masterpiece that cost him over $400,000.
The Shark S-1's fiberglass bodywork featured with a rather wedge design, but with rounded shapes, posed challenges during production, requiring three attempts to achieve perfection on its tubular steel frame chassis. (Picture from: Motor24.pt)
Drawing inspiration from iconic predecessors like the Vector W8 and Cizeta V16, the Shark S-1 exudes a sense of practical exoticism. The project, culminated in 1996, boasts a fully bespoke body with scissor doors, capturing attention and standing as a testament to the audacity of smaller players in the supercar arena. This unique creation found its home, insured and registered in British Columbia, Canada.
Drawing inspiration from iconic predecessors like the Vector W8 and Cizeta V16, the Shark S-1 exudes a sense of practical exoticism. (Picture from: CollectorCarAds)
The Shark S-1's fiberglass bodywork featured with a rather wedge design, but with rounded shapes, posed challenges during production, requiring three attempts to achieve perfection on its tubular steel frame chassis. The interior, adorned with faux suede, boasts a custom 1980s instrument cluster, evoking a nostalgic charm reminiscent of classic appliances.
The Shark S-1 boasts a fully bespoke body with scissor doors, capturing attention and standing as a testament to the audacity of smaller players in the supercar arena. (Picture from: Motor24.pt)
Inside the Shark S-1, comfort takes precedence with an air conditioning system and a more recent addition of a reversing camera. The digital instrument panel, inspired by aviation aesthetics, showcases meticulous attention to detail. Safety features include ABS, ensuring a secure driving experience.
The Shark S-1's interior, adorned with faux suede, boasts a custom 1980s instrument cluster, evoking a nostalgic charm reminiscent of classic appliances. (Picture from: CollectorCarAds)
Modern driving conveniences adorn the Shark S-1, including power steering, mirrors, tilt steering, an AM/FM stereo with a 6-speaker system and CD player, keyless entry, tachometer, center console, overhead console, light entry system, bucket seats, leather interior, and tinted glass.
Powering the Shark S-1 is a rear-mounted GM 8.2-liter V8 drivetrain, offering 550 horses coupled with Turbo-Hydramatic TH400 automatic three-speed transmission. (Picture from: Motor24.pt)
Powering the Shark S-1 is a rear-mounted GM 8.2-liter V8 drivetrain, offering 550 horses. The Turbo-Hydramatic TH400 automatic three-speed transmission adds to its prowess, propelling the car from zero to sixty in a swift four seconds. Enormous Hoosier tires at the rear ensure optimal traction, complemented by adjustable and independent suspension, power steering, and ABS.
Propelled by its engine power, the Shark S-1 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in a swift four seconds, reaching a top speed of 350 km/h. (Picture from: CollectorCarAds)
In 2021, the Shark S-1 graced the market for sale, its rarity attributed to infrequent use in recent years. As a typical supercar, it boasts low-slung discomfort, making it a challenging drive for owner Rudi Huber. At the time, the selling price hovered around $250,000 or approximately €210,000, reflecting the exclusivity and allure of this one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Enormous Hoosier tires at the rear ensure optimal traction, complemented by adjustable and independent suspension, power steering, and ABS. (Picture from: Motor24.pt)
And Collector Car Ads indicated the Shark S-1 has sold at a historical sale price of around $125,000, underlining the evolving appreciation for this extraordinary automotive creation. If you have a moment to spare, consider exploring other Canadian supercars, such as the HTT Pléthore LC-750 or Magnum MK5. Happy Holiday... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | OBSCURESUPERCAR | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTS CARS | ALLCARINDEX | THETRUTHABOUTCARS | COLLECTORCARADS | MOTOR24.PT ]
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