The Ugly Duckling - In the dynamic world of racing cars, rules and standards rarely dictate the aesthetics; hence, we witness the emergence of unconventional and eccentric designs that defy the norm.
The Marcos Xylon GT, affectionately known as the 'Ugly Duckling,' contributed to its lightweight design, leading to remarkable success on the race track in the capable hands during its heyday in the 1960s.(Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
Adding a unique chapter to this narrative is the Marcos Xylon GT, affectionately known as the 'Ugly Duckling.' Even the renowned British racing maestro, Sir Jackie Stewart, found himself navigating the track in a vehicle deemed unique and unusual during the early years of his career in the 1960s. The intrigue deepens – what is this car, and how does it distinguish itself?
The Marcos Xylon GT with its unapologetic appearance, rolled off the assembly line in Dolgellau, Wales, designed by the accomplished Frank Costin between 1959 and 1960. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)
The 'Ugly Duckling,' with its unapologetic appearance, rolled off the assembly line in Dolgellau, Wales. Designed by the accomplished Frank Costin, famed for his work on Vanwalls and various Lotus sports racing cars, the car was a collaborative effort with Dennis and Peter Adams. Later, a small production run took place in Luton, immortalizing its peculiar presence.
The Marcos Mantis XP, another distinctively shaped car, emerged in 1968, crafted by the British automotive manufacturer, Marcos Engineering Ltd. (Picture from: Motor1)
The manufacturer, Marcos Engineering Ltd., a prominent name in the British automotive landscape during that era, has not only given us the 'Ugly Duckling' but also the Marcos Mantis XP, another racing marvel had explored in our earlier article.
The Marcos Xylon GT, once campaigned by Sir Jackie Stewart himself in the early years of his career during the 1960s.(Picture from: MarcosXylon)
Quoted from the Marcos-OC, the Xylon GT was purposefully crafted for 750 Motor Club events, featuring a wooden chassis, aptly named Xylon, derived from the Greek word meaning 'wood.' This unconventional choice contributed to its lightweight design, ultimately leading to remarkable success on the race track in the capable hands of Sir Jackie Stewart, Jem Marsh, and other racing luminaries.
The Marcos Xylon GT, once campaigned by Sir Jackie Stewart himself in the early years of his career during the 1960s.(Picture from: MarcosXylon)
Linked to the legendary vehicle once driven by Sir Jackie Stewart, the Marcos Xylon GT - G128 with chassis #1003 was commissioned by Barry Filer. In the early '60s, the young Jackie Stewart showcased its prowess in North's club races during 1961 and 1962. Later, Jim Diggory took charge.
The Marcos Xylon GT was purposefully crafted for 750 Motor Club events, featuring a wooden chassis, aptly named Xylon, derived from the Greek word meaning 'wood.' (Picture from: Pinterest)
In 1969, Jem Marsh discovered the car in a London Mews near Chris Lawrence's place, acquiring it for £250. Embarking on a restoration journey in the late '70s, Jem achieved monumental success, securing over 100 trophies and clinching three major Championships in HSCC races.
The Marcos Xylon GT stands not only as a relic of the past but as a symbol of audacious design and pioneering innovation. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)
Beyond its distinctive appearance, the 'Ugly Duckling' boasts gull-wing style doors and a lofty roof profile, possibly catering to taller racers. This design trait, making Marcos cars a preferred choice for taller drivers, remains a hallmark even today.
The Marcos Xylon GT features iconic gull-wing style doors and a spacious roof profile, catering to the needs of taller racers.(Picture from: Stkone on Flickr)
Under the hood, the Xylon GT is powered by a Ford 105E engine paired with a four-speed gearbox, both sourced from Ford. Equipped with a pair of Weber carburettors, the 997 cc Ford engine delivers around 85 bhp. Standard hydraulic drums on all four corners provide stopping power, with front disc brakes available as an optional upgrade.
The distinctive appearance of the Marcos Xylon GT, making it a preferred choice for taller drivers, continues to be a hallmark to this day.(Picture from: BlackXperience)
Historical records suggest that only nine units of the original Xylon GT were crafted between 1959 and 1960. Although succeeded by more conventional cars, the Xylon GT retained its unique wooden chassis. Notably, it played a pivotal role in shaping the career of Sir Jackie Stewart, propelling him toward a remarkable three-time Formula 1 World Champion status.
The Marcos Xylon GT is propelled by a Ford 105E engine paired with a four-speed gearbox, both sourced directly from Ford.(Picture from: Marcos-OC)
In the ever-evolving automotive landscape, the 'Ugly Duckling' Xylon GT stands not only as a relic of the past but as a symbol of audacious design and pioneering innovation. It serves as a testament to Marcos Engineering's commitment to pushing boundaries and creating racing machines that transcend the ordinary. | kiTfGhNJ12o |
In conclusion, the 'Ugly Duckling' Xylon GT remains an iconic piece in the mosaic of racing history, reminding us that in the pursuit of speed and excellence, beauty often takes unconventional forms. As we celebrate the legacy of the Xylon GT, we acknowledge its significant role in the illustrious career of Sir Jackie Stewart, a testament to the enduring impact of unique racing creations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MARCOSXYLON | MARCOS-OC | ULTIMATECARPAGE ]
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60th F1 Winning Celebration - Celebrating an extraordinary 60-year legacy in Formula 1, Ferrari, the iconic Italian supercar manufacturer, introduces its latest marvel – the Ferrari 599 GTB 60F1. Beyond being a car, it is a symbol of speed, sophistication, and a testament to Ferrari's dominance in the realm of motorsports.
The Ferrari 599 GTB 60F1 under Ferrari 150° Italia Livery, showcases a striking Scuderia 2011 red with white accents on the lower front bumpers, mudguards, bonnet, A-posts, and buttresses, replicating the iconic tricolore on the rear spoiler of the F150. (Picture from: Ferrari Connoisseur)
ONE-OFF - Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about the possibility of bringing your dream car to life? Creating a four-wheeled marvel that perfectly aligns with your vision of automotive perfection is a fantasy many share. The exciting news is, you don't need to be a high-profile automaker to turn this dream into reality. Everyday individuals, fueled by passion and determination, have successfully crafted their own automotive masterpieces, proving that the pursuit of dreams isn't exclusive to corporate giants.
The Invictus GT is a hand built car, developed as a result of one man’s dream, designed by Iker Lopez Totorika, and brought to life by Windsor Coachwork. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
Now, while this might sound like a cliché motivational statement often echoed by influencers, the Invictus GT stands as a living testament to the transformative power of dreams, skills, and unwavering determination. This unique creation is not just another do-it-yourself project; it's the culmination of a decade-long dedication by one man – Henrik, an enigmatic car enthusiast. His canvas? The Lotus Exige (Series 2).
Over the course of ten years, Henrik and his colleagues meticulously transformed the Series 2 Exige into the Invictus GT genuine masterpiece. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
Over the span of ten years, Henrik meticulously transformed the Series 2 Exige into a genuine masterpiece. His goal wasn't solely centered on achieving aesthetic allure; he aimed for an unrivaled driving experience as well. Leveraging the Exige's robust foundation for exceptional performance, Henrik collaborated with his friend and talented car designer, Iker Lopez Totorika, to handle the aesthetic aspects.
The Invictus GT draws inspiration from the glorious automotive era of the 60s and 70s, paying homage to classic sports cars without being a mere imitation. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
The Invictus GT draws inspiration from the glorious automotive era of the 60s and 70s, paying homage to classic sports cars without merely imitating them. The Exige's compact dimensions became the perfect canvas for timeless design elements, creating a charming and unique sports car.
The inspiration from those classic sports cars is evident in the design, spanning from the Stratos-esque rear end to the Alfa teledial-wheels, and the Lola look of the front. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
Turning dreams into reality required more than just passion – it demanded precision and craftsmanship. A 1:1 foam model, crafted with the expertise of FBFX, paved the way for the fibreglass transformation by Windsor Coachworks, a bespoke and low-volume vehicle manufacturer founded in 2018. The result? A resounding success, boasting clean lines, consistent panel gaps, intricate details, flawless paint, and a stance that radiates perfection.
The Invictus GT features the right proportions for its petite body, with exceptional handling included as a standard feature. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
While the interior remains a mystery, the Invictus GT retains the Exige S base underneath, with subtle enhancements like a redesigned intercooler and exhaust. Considering the Exige's stellar reputation on the road, any skepticism about the driving experience quickly dissipates.
The Invictus GT boasts clean lines, consistent panel gaps, intricate details, flawless paint, and a stance that radiates perfection. (Picture from: TradeClassic)
The inspiration from those classic sports cars is evident in the design, from the Stratos-esque rear end to the Alfa teledial-wheels, and the Lola look of the front. However, the GT avoids being a mere pastiche, presenting itself as a great-looking, petite, and perfectly proportioned sports car. Job done.
The Invictus GT retains the Exige S base underneath, featuring subtle enhancements such as a redesigned intercooler and exhaust.(Picture from: TradeClassic)
Presently, the Invictus GT stands as a testament to one man's vision and craftsmanship, a unique creation in a league of its own. Yet, whispers of potential mass production emerge if the demand materializes. Picture the streets adorned with this bespoke creation – a dream materialized for both the creator and prospective owners.
So, if you've ever dared to envision yourself designing your own car, take inspiration from Henrik's journey. Who knows? The world might just be waiting for your automotive masterpiece. Remember, where there's a will, there's a way. The road to automotive dreams may be winding, but it's undoubtedly worth the drive...😎 *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | INVICTUS GT | PISTONHEADS | TRADECLASSIC | CARBUZZ ]
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Unique ONES - The allure of the Corvette, a name synonymous with American muscle, has captivated enthusiasts for decades. Regrettably, the once-exclusive charm of this iconic sports car seems to be waning, with some dismissing it as a mere participant in the fiberglass sports car arena. As we delve into the late 1970s, potential Corvette owners seeking to stand out found themselves resorting to importing Lamborghinis or DeTomasos.
Les Dunham crafted the Corvette Caballista, responding to fans' desire to revive the exclusive charm of this iconic sports car. (Picture from: Autoweek)
Recognizing this growing dilemma, Les Dunham, founder of the Dunham Coach Motor Car Company in Boonton, N.J., took it upon himself to remedy the situation. A customization maestro since 1957, Dunham became widely known after transforming a Chevrolet Corvette chassis by fitting it with a Cadillac Eldorado body. The result? The birth of the Corvorado (Corvette + Eldorado), prominently featured in James Bond's "Live And Let Die," among other films.
Meticulously from 1977 to 1982, Les Dunham converted ordinary Corvettes into the stunning Corvette Caballista—producing 50 units, with only 5 convertibles. (Picture from: Autoweek)
Between 1977 and 1982, Dunham meticulously converted ordinary Corvette into the stunning Corvette Caballista. To ensure exclusivity, only 50 units were produced, with a mere five being convertibles. The Corvette Caballista, crafted in Boonton, NJ, carried a hefty starting price of over $60,000 in 1980, reinforcing its exclusive status.
The Corvette Caballista arrived fully loaded, boasting a leather interior, grey carpet, air conditioning, tilt and telescopic compact steering wheel, and various other premium features. (Picture from: Hemmings)
The term "Caballista" itself, a Spanish word meaning "horse-man" or one knowledgeable about horses, was aptly chosen. Equipped with Chevy's 5.7 Liter L-83 V8 and a 700 R4 automatic transmission, owners of the Caballista became instant connoisseurs of "200 horses" and 285 ft-lbs of torque.
The Corvette Caballista features Chevy's 5.7 Liter L-83 V8 and a 700 R4 automatic transmission, delivering 200 horses and 285 ft-lbs of torque. (Picture from: Hemmings)
The feature-rich Caballista boasted 4-wheel power disc brakes, power steering, power windows and seats, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, AM/FM cassette, a 2-tone leather interior, tinted windows, removable mirror T-Top, custom silver paint with charcoal accents, and distinctive elements like full chrome bumpers, side supercharger pipes (purely for show), a Rolls-style grille, and mag rims.
The Corvette Caballista is adorned with unique features, including full chrome bumpers, side supercharger pipes (for display), a Rolls-style grille, and stylish mag rims.. (Picture from: Autoweek)
Undoubtedly, this car turned heads with its unique design, reflective of a bygone era. The late '70s saw it making appearances in films like "Shaft," gracing the entrances of legendary discos like Studio 54, and becoming the vehicle of choice for the flamboyant pimps of that time, akin to the spiritual ancestors of today's Escalade and Bentley.
In conclusion, Dunham's Corvette Caballista stands as a testament to the creativity that arises from the need for exclusivity. This automotive gem not only revitalized the Corvette's allure but also etched its name in the annals of unique and extravagant customizations in automotive history. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DUNHAM COACH | HEMMINGS | CARTHROTTLE | AUTOWEEK ]
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SHADO Treasures - Gerry Anderson, known for his iconic sci-fi puppetry in the '60s, surprised everyone in 1969 by delving into a new realm – a little-known show featuring live actors. If you're yearning for a touch of silver catsuits and purple wigs in today's society, this journey back to 1969 might be just what you're looking for.
SHADO's Commander Ed Straker's car is a notable addition to the UFO car series featured in Gerry Anderson's visionary sci-fi TV series from the 1960s. (Picture from: Hemmings)
In the realm of '60s sci-fi and Gerry Anderson's visionary creations, this lesser-known gem not only provided a glimpse into an imagined future but also left an indelible mark with its unique blend of creativity and practicality. As we ponder the show's idiosyncrasies and innovations, one can't help but marvel at the audacity of envisioning a world where alien defense and stylish cars converged in a captivating symphony of imagination.
The show transported us into the futuristic landscape of 1980, accurately predicted an alien invasion aiming to abduct humans for their body parts – a dark and captivating premise. The defenders against these otherworldly threats were the members of SHADO, the Supreme Headquarters Alien Defence Organization, a club seemingly as exclusive as escaping Virgin Media's relentless mailing list. Intrigued by the title sequence?
The SHADO Commander Ed Stalker's car touted as turbine-powered with power-operated gull-wing doors and a built-in mobile phone. (Picture from: SlotForum)
Derek Meddings, the creative genius behind the show's design, had previously lent his talents to numerous Gerry Anderson productions. For a more in-depth look at his work, particularly the two full-sized vehicles in this TV series—the cars driven by SHADO's Commander Ed Straker and field commander Paul Foster—explore his book, '21st Century Visions'.
Commander Ed Straker's car stood proudly among the operational jeeps of the SHADO board in front of its headquarters. (Picture from: Forum-RetroRide)
The special effects team, well-versed in crafting models for filming,
took an unconventional approach when tasked with creating a real car. Alan Mann Racing, renowned for their work on the iconic Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, was given the responsibility, drawing on their expertise in racing Fords.
All cars, including SHADO Commander Ed Straker and Foster's, were built over a six-month period on modified Zephyr-Zodiac Mk4 platforms, equipped with Escort engines and gearboxes. (Picture from: TheNorthernEcho)
The Ford connection added an interesting layer as the UFO cars featured in the series were constructed on Ford Zephyr running gear, equipped with a 1600 Cortina engine. UFO cars, indeed! Colonel Foster sported his own attention-grabbing lilac stunner.
Straker's car is the 'basic' version, while Foster's vehicle boasts added details like air scoops and subtle extensions to alter its appearance. (Picture from: Forum-RetroRide)
Yet, the most prominent in the fleet was the brown coupe used by SHADO's Commander Straker for his daily excursions. This vehicle had its roots in the 1969 movie "Doppelgänger" (also known as "Journey to the Far Side of the Sun"), a film produced and written by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson.
Both car bodies (Straker and Foster's) were handcrafted from aluminum, with doors requiring manual lifting by a stagehand off-screen for character exits, as they did not open automatically.(Picture from: SlotForum)
Touted as turbine-powered with power-operated gull-wing doors and a built-in mobile phone, the truth behind the glamour was fascinating. The car, with its aluminum bodywork, sat on a modified Zephyr-Zodiac Mk IV chassis, housing an Escort engine and gearbox.
As you can see, Foster's car appears longer than Straker's; these extensions not only add length but also enhance its sleek appearance. (Picture from: SlotForum)
Contrary to the futuristic depiction, the phone was merely a prop, and
the doors required manual effort to lift, as revealed in several
pictures. Ultimately,
it stands as a testament to the enduring charm of vintage sci-fi,
resonating with enthusiasts and curious minds alike, bridging the gap
between the past and our present fascination with the unknown.
Foster's car featured prominent air scoops and subtle extensions to the front and rear bodywork. (Picture from: GerryAnderson)
New EV - In the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive world, China has solidified its position as a powerhouse, especially in the realm of electric-powered cars. Among the notable players in this transformative era is Xiaomi, the electronic giant that ventured into the automotive market with its groundbreaking Xiaomi SU7.
The Xiao Paoche SC01 has been described as China's "national sports car". (Picture from: Autocar)
But Xiaomi didn't stop at SU7; it seized an opportunity to contribute to the electric vehicle revolution when Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology under its marque Xiao Paoche means Small Sports Car (SSC) unveiled the Xiao Paoche SC-01 two years ago. This marked a pivotal moment, showcasing Xiaomi's commitment to innovation beyond the realm of electronics.
The Chinese brand Xiao Paoche translating to "Small Sports Car," received substantial investment from Xiaomi unveiled a compact sports car named the SC-01 back in September 2023. (Picture from: Gari.pk)
The journey, however, was not without its challenges. Concerns loomed among customers who eagerly placed deposits for the SC-01 as uncertainty shrouded its production progress. The anxieties were put to rest recently as the first Xiao Paoche SC-01 sports car triumphantly emerged from the production line.
The dimensions, meticulously designed, boast a length of 4105mm, width of 1830mm, and height of 1160mm, with a weight around 1370kg. As we delve into the intricacies of the SC-01, similarities with
mid-engined sports cars like the Lotus Elise and Toyota MR2 become
apparent, suggesting a well-balanced weight distribution.
The Xiao Paoche SC-01 features angular headlamps, angled C-pillars, circular taillights, and a space frame constructed from three-dimensional steel tubes. (Picture from: AutoProNews.ru)
The exterior showcases a front flip design for the hood, coupled with a 350mm brake disc diameter and front six rear yellow integrated cast calipers. Constructed from chromium-molybdenum steel tubing, the chassis hosts a centrally mounted battery layout, emphasizing lightweight characteristics.
Aesthetics meet functionality with a curved windshield that not only reduces drag coefficient but also optimizes aerodynamics. Inside, the SC-01 boasts physical buttons, racing seats, and an Edifier audio system, seamlessly combining performance and style.
The Xiao Paoche SC-01 using a tubular space frame design around the batteries and driver will provide the EV with excellent rigidity and weight savings. (Picture from: Autocar)
The SC-01 promises a versatile driving experience with modes like front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, and sport mode, all featuring autonomous adjustment for enhanced traction during cornering, braking, and acceleration.
Inside, the Xiao Paoche SC-01 boasts physical buttons, racing seats, and an Edifier audio system, seamlessly combining performance and style. (Picture from: Carvaganza)
Active thermal management technology ensures efficient temperature control, while the central navigation power battery boasts an impressive energy density of 160Wh/kg, providing a comprehensive range of 520km. Charging from 30 percent to 80 percent takes less than 25 minutes.
Backed by significant funding from Xiaomi, Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology is yet to confirm the manufacturer, leaving enthusiasts eagerly anticipating whether BAIC will take the reins, given its ties to Xiaomi.
The Xiao Paoche SC-01, a compact two-door roadster, features a design reminiscent of typical sports cars, sharing dimensions akin to the Audi TT, Lotus Elise, and Toyota MR2.(Picture from: Gocar.be)
With a pre-sale price just under CHN ¥300,000, approximately $42,000, the SC-01 is gearing up to hit the Chinese market in 2024, signaling a significant leap in the electric vehicle landscape. Priced at such affordable numbers as mentioned above, the Xiao Paoche SC-01 emerges as a captivating contender, competing alongside the MG Cyberster. | XqenQZqcYio |
The global availability of the SC-01 remains uncertain, heightening anticipation among automotive enthusiasts worldwide. In the accelerating momentum of the electric vehicle revolution, the Xiao Paoche SC-01 emerges as a promising player, symbolizing a thrilling intersection of innovation, style, and affordability. Buckle up for a ride into the future! *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARNEWSCHINA | FASTESTLAPS | AUTOCAR | CARSCOOPS | AUTOPRONEWS.RU | GOCAR.BE | GARY.PK ]
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In conclusion, the 'Ugly Duckling' Xylon GT remains an iconic piece in the mosaic of racing history, reminding us that in the pursuit of speed and excellence, beauty often takes unconventional forms. As we celebrate the legacy of the Xylon GT, we acknowledge its significant role in the illustrious career of Sir Jackie Stewart, a testament to the enduring impact of unique racing creations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MARCOSXYLON | MARCOS-OC | ULTIMATECARPAGE ]
