Handcrafted Power: Canada’s Unique Wooden Supercar

ART WHEELER - Wood has long been valued in craftsmanship, from fine furniture to intricate instruments, and has even found its way into vehicle designs in unique forms. While modern automotive engineering has shifted toward advanced materials like alloys and composites, wood remains a timeless choice. However, it is rarely used in the structural framework or body of today's cars, typically limited to interior accents or trims. Examples like Joe Harmon's Splinter show how wood can be creatively applied to vehicles, and now, a Canadian artisan has taken this concept even further. This exceptional wooden supercar challenges automotive conventions by incorporating wood in nearly every aspect of its construction.

This remarkable wooden automotive masterpiece showcases unparalleled dedication, skill, and innovation, all while being fully capable of performing on the road like a regular supercar. (Picture from: Pinterest)

In Quebec, a master craftsman spent around two years building this distinctive supercar almost entirely from small, hand-placed wooden blocks. The wooden car, spotted by Quebec native Gabriel Chamberland, stands out with its striking combination of classic woodworking and advanced automotive design. This beautiful, hand-built vehicle draws inspiration from popular sports cars and is powered by a potent 350-horsepower supercharged engine. Despite its power and performance, it embraces the charm of wood, transforming traditional carpentry into automotive artistry.

This remarkable wooden automotive masterpiece, meticulously crafted by an artisan in Quebec, Canada, was brought to life over a span of approximately two years, showcasing unparalleled dedication and skill. (Picture from: StanceIsEverything)

Constructed over a steel tubular frame, this wooden marvel uses a method reminiscent of a puzzle, where each small block of wood is meticulously placed, creating a mosaic-like effect that covers much of the car’s exterior and interior. The intricate wooden exterior is a testament to the builder's dedication, capturing the attention of anyone fortunate enough to witness it on the road. Not only does this vehicle turn heads, but it also challenges preconceived notions about the materials suitable for high-performance vehicles. In an age dominated by metals and synthetic materials, this car brings warmth and nostalgia through the organic texture and appearance of its wooden “bricks.”

This wooden car features an interior that is just as captivating as its exterior, with distinctive wooden blocks lining much of the cabin, seamlessly enhancing the sense of cohesion and exceptional craftsmanship. (Picture from: StanceIsEverything)

The interior of the car is as captivating as the exterior, also featuring the distinctive wooden blocks that line much of the cabin, enhancing the sense of cohesion and craftsmanship. Instead of traditional dials or an instrument cluster, a simple Android tablet serves as the gauge, adding a touch of modernity amidst the rustic aesthetic. This blend of old and new creates an interior environment that is equal parts functional and artful, merging technology with artisanal design.

This wooden car achieves a perfect balance of old and new, creating an interior that is both functional and artful, seamlessly merging modern technology with artisanal design. (Picture from: StanceIsEverything)

Much about this handcrafted car remains a mystery, including details about the underlying chassis and any additional performance specifications. What is certain, however, is that this vehicle represents an impressive feat of engineering and artistry. Few vehicles combine such power and beauty with sustainable, natural materials. Each block of wood, carefully selected and placed, shows the builder’s dedication to both aesthetics and functionality.

This wooden car replaces traditional dials and instrument clusters with a simple Android tablet as the gauge, seamlessly blending modern technology with its rustic aesthetic. (Picture from: StanceIsEverything)

This wooden supercar, with its unique charm and robust performance, defies conventional wisdom in automotive design. It demonstrates that wood, a material once deemed unsuitable for modern car bodies, can indeed create a durable, attractive, and high-performing vehicle. This exceptional creation in Canada serves as a reminder of the possibilities that lie within creative automotive craftsmanship. 

This wooden supercar conceals its impressive performance, with little known about the powerful engine behind its speed, though its appearance suggests it brought a potent supercharged engine. (Picture from: StanceIsEverything)

The car’s powerful engine and carefully crafted wooden design make it not only an automobile but a moving piece of art. Its maker proves that even in a world driven by technological advancement, traditional materials like wood still hold untapped potential to astonish and inspire. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | STANCEISEVERYTHING | PINTEREST | GABRIEL CHAMBERLAND IN FACEBOOK ]

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Charade Monza: Once Dubbed Indonesia's 1st Sports Car

Rare ONES - Dreaming of designing and building a unique car is a common fantasy for car enthusiasts around the world. The thought of not just owning, but creating a vehicle that stands apart from anything else on the road is an alluring idea. While most of us may leave this dream on the drawing board, there are rare instances where someone dares to turn their vision into reality.

The Charade Monza presented by Charade Automobile SA, unveiled in 1989 at a private event in Clermont-Ferrand, France. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

This is the inspiring story of Pierre Foissotte, a French engineer with a background in the automotive industry, whose ambition led him to create a car company and introduce a unique vehicle that left a lasting mark on both European and Asia especially Indonesian car markets. Pierre Foissotte started his career as an engineer at Esso Fuels, where he was involved in fuel delivery systems. His passion for cars and performance led him to work with Formula Renault, a racing series known for honing the skills of many future Formula 1 drivers.

The Charade Monza captivated racing enthusiasts and distributors at a major Paris automotive event, where, even as a bare-bones model, it sparked international interest in the brand. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

In the world of Formula Renault, he found the perfect environment to push the limits of car design and engineering. This experience ignited Foissotte’s dream to create his own car, which eventually led him to gather a group of like-minded individuals who shared his vision for building a car that was both innovative and stylish. By 1986, he had assembled a small team of technicians and designers, and together, they set out to build a grand tourer (GT) sports car with cutting-edge design and performance.

The Charade Monza's chassis, built from a box-section tubular steel frame, provided strength and durability, while its lightweight fiberglass body ensured agility and responsiveness. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

The project, while ambitious, began with modest goals: Foissotte and his team initially aimed to create a limited number of vehicles that would stand out in the luxury sports car segment. As they progressed, the team enlisted the help of a Japanese designer who introduced a sleek, futuristic look for the car’s exterior. With the designer’s industry connections in Asia, the project quickly expanded to involve international partners. They also secured partnerships in Japan to manufacture the glass components. The combination of expertise from Europe and Asia gave the project an international flair, and the car began to take shape with a unique blend of Western design and Asian craftsmanship.

The Charade Monza was ultimately equipped with the Peugeot 205 GTI’s engine and drivetrain, after evaluating options from Honda, Toyota, and Mitsubishi, giving it a reliable and sporty mid-rear configuration beneath its clamshell hood. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

In 1989, Foissotte and his team unveiled a mock-up of their car, named the Charade Monza, at the Mondial de l'automobile et du transport in 1989. This debut served as a way to gauge interest from potential partners and investors. The reaction was overwhelmingly positive, and the buzz generated from this showing motivated Foissotte to formalize the venture by establishing Charade Automobile SA. in September 1989. With a newfound sense of purpose and backing, Charade Automobile acquired a location in Clermont-Ferrand to begin preparing for a limited production run of the Charade Monza.

Besides the coupe, the Charade Monza was also offered in a Targa version with scissor-style doors. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

As the Monza continued to develop, Charade Automobile showcased the car at a major automotive event in Paris, where it attracted significant attention from racing enthusiasts and potential distributors. Despite only being a rolling model—a basic frame without functional suspension or a finished interior—the Monza created enough excitement to put Charade Automobile on the radar of the international car community. However, considerable work remained to bring the vehicle to market, including securing an engine supplier and completing the car’s mechanical and structural components.

The Charade Monza’s limited orders led Charade Automobile to downsize and offer a VW Fox-based kit version, but financial issues ended production in 1993 with only about two dozen units made. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

After evaluating various engine options from Honda, Toyota, and Mitsubishi, the designer team ultimately decided to equip the Charade Monza with the engine and drivetrain of the Peugeot 205 GTI, a choice that allowed for a reliable and sporty mid-rear engine configuration. The chassis, a box-section tubular steel frame, provided strength and durability, while the lightweight fiberglass body ensured the car remained agile and responsive, and available in both Coupe and Targa versions.

The Charade Monza’s production ended in 1993, but it resurfaced at the 1990 Jakarta Fair as the Pawma XL300, powered by a modified 1.6-liter Mitsubishi L300 engine and a five-speed transmission. (Picture from: KlasikRetro in Instagram)

However, the Monza’s success in generating interest did not translate into high sales. The limited orders led Charade Automobile to shift its strategy, including moving to a smaller production site and introducing a kit version of the Monza using VW Fox components to broaden its appeal. Despite these efforts, financial difficulties persisted, and the company ultimately ceased operations in 1993, with an estimated two dozen Monza models completed in France. Although the project in France came to an end, the Charade Monza’s story did not.

The Mitsubishi Pawma XL300 first appeared in a brochure in 1990 as Indonesia's first sports car. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

In Indonesia, this unique car reemerged as the Pawma XL300, produced in Jakarta by PT. Kreasindo Trampil Mandiri and based on the Mitsubishi L300, featuring a modified 1.6-liter engine and a five-speed transmission. Debuting at the 1990 Jakarta Fair, the Pawma XL300 captured the interest of Indonesian car enthusiasts as the first locally produced sports car. Although production was limited—rumored to be only 10 units—it gained a loyal following and became a distinctive part of Indonesia’s automotive history. 

The Charade Monza and its Indonesian counterpart, the Pawma XL300, serve as remarkable examples of what can be achieved when passion and creativity intersect. Foissotte’s project may not have achieved widespread commercial success, but it left an indelible mark on automotive history. His journey reminds us that even the most challenging dreams are worth pursuing and that passion can bring people together across continents to create something truly special. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RARE COMPONENT CARS ]

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One-of-a-Kind Caterham CSR GT: Designed by Ex-Sauber F1 Engineer

Weird CREATION - In the world of performance cars, few names carry as much weight as Caterham. Known for its dedication to minimalism and raw driving pleasure, the brand has become iconic for creating lightweight, driver-focused vehicles. One of the most intriguing models to emerge from Caterham is the CSR GT, a unique, futuristic take on the classic Caterham design that combines high performance with an unconventional aesthetic.

The Caterham CSR GT is perhaps the strangest car the brand has ever produced, with a design almost entirely free of curves, except for its distinctive wheel arches and headlights. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The Caterham CSR GT was developed by a former Sauber F1 designer who envisioned a modern, enclosed version of the Caterham 7. Built on the high-performance CSR 200 platform, the CSR GT features the same powerful underpinnings but introduces a completely new hardtop coupe style. This closed-body approach transformed the car from a lightweight racer to a Gran Turismo (GT) style vehicle suitable for high-speed touring while still maintaining Caterham’s agile, sporty feel.

The Caterham CSR GT, built on the high-performance CSR 200 platform, also features unique scissor doors that open upward, adding a futuristic flair. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Visually, the CSR GT is perhaps the strangest car Caterham has ever produced. Its design is nearly free of curves, apart from its distinctive wheel arches and headlights. This almost curve-less exterior gives it a sharp, futuristic look that stands in stark contrast to the classic, open-air Caterham 7. The integrated headlights and unique hardtop add to its striking appearance, making it a departure from anything previously seen in Caterham’s lineup.

The Caterham CSR GT's nearly curve-less exterior offers a sharp, futuristic look, contrasting sharply with the classic, open-air Caterham 7. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Under the hood, the CSR GT retains the same engine as the CSR 200: a Cosworth-tuned 2.3-liter Ford Duratec engine paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. This setup delivers exceptional power for such a lightweight car, allowing the CSR GT to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. The rear-wheel drive and lightweight chassis give it a power-to-weight ratio that allows it to compete with some of the world’s fastest supercars.

The Caterham CSR GT's cabin features blue and black Alcantara upholstery and a left-hand drive layout, catering to international car enthusiasts. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Inside, the CSR GT’s cabin is both stylish and practical. It features blue and black Alcantara upholstery and unique scissor doors that open upward, adding a futuristic flair. This rare model also has a left-hand drive layout, reflecting its appeal to international car enthusiasts. Despite being minimalistic, the interior is comfortable enough for long-distance drives, blending luxury with the performance-oriented design.

The Caterham CSR GT powered by a Cosworth-tuned 2.3-liter Ford Duratec engine paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Completed in 2013 by H.M.C. Helvetic Motor Company in Switzerland, the CSR GT remains a one-of-a-kind creation. This exclusivity, along with its distinct design and high-performance capabilities, makes it a highly sought-after piece. In mid-2022, the Caterham CSR GT was successfully sold by Bonham's auction house for €20,251, further cementing its status as a unique collectible.

The Caterham CSR GT, completed in 2013 by H.M.C. Helvetic Motor Company in Switzerland, remains a one-of-a-kind creation, prized for its exclusivity, unique design, and high performance. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The CSR GT is a testament to Caterham’s commitment to innovation and its willingness to explore new directions. It bridges the legacy of the classic Caterham 7 with a futuristic design, representing an evolution of the brand while staying true to its roots. As a one-off model, the CSR GT holds a special place in automotive history as both an homage to and a departure from the Caterham tradition. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SILODROME | BONHAM ]

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Texaco Doodlebug: The Streamlined Tanker That Redefined Design

Weird ONES - In the early 1930s, as the world was swept up by new advancements in design and technology, Texaco introduced a tanker truck that seemed straight out of a futuristic vision. For many, the first thought upon seeing this unique vehicle was that it resembled a “pill” or a “breadloaf.” Officially known as the Texaco Doodlebug, this tanker wasn’t just another truck; it was a symbol of innovation and design that boldly departed from anything the automotive world had seen before.

The Texaco Doodlebug, a Diamond T-based tanker truck commissioned by the American oil company Texaco, showcased a streamlined, futuristic design typical of American tanker trucks in the 1930s. (Picture from: IconicRides in Facebook)

The Doodlebug’s look was undeniably striking. Its shape, reminiscent of a pill or bread loaf, featured a smooth, half-cylinder body with rounded edges at the front and a tapered back. This seamless design eliminated the typical fenders, hood, and running boards, making the cabin blend smoothly into the body. Additionally, the vehicle stood only six feet tall—a surprisingly low profile for a tanker truck, which made it appear almost as if it were gliding along the road. Its windshield, made from compound curved glass, was cutting-edge for the time, adding to the futuristic feel.

The Texaco Diamond T Doodlebug fuel tanker from the 1930s, designed by Norman Bel Geddes and Walter Dorwin Teague, was produced in a limited run of only six units. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)

The Doodlebug was made possible through a collaboration between multiple companies. Texaco partnered with the Heil Trailer Company, responsible for constructing the tank body, and the Diamond T Motor Car Company, which provided the chassis. The Doodlebug was publicly revealed in January 1933, and its engineering was as innovative as its design. Equipped with a Hercules L-head six-cylinder engine mounted at the rear, it offered an unusual but balanced configuration. Air-pressured controls managed the clutch and gearbox, and an advanced communication system allowed the driver to hear engine sounds via a microphone-speaker setup. This way, the driver knew exactly when to shift gears—a sophisticated feature for its time.

The Texaco Doodlebug fuel tanker, resembling a 'pill' or 'breadloaf,' was a symbol of innovation and design that boldly departed from anything the automotive world had seen before. (Picture from: DisenoArts)

This innovative truck was part of Texaco’s broader strategy to modernize its brand. The company enlisted industrial designers Norman Bel Geddes and Walter Dorwin Teague to help craft a fresh, contemporary image for Texaco. This modernization effort introduced several iconic elements still associated with the brand, such as the red Texaco star-T logo, redesigned service station aesthetics, and updated employee uniforms. The Doodlebug, with its sleek, futuristic look, became the face of this transformation, turning heads on the road and solidifying Texaco’s brand as both stylish and forward-thinking.

The Texaco Diamond T Doodlebug powered by a Hercules L-head six-cylinder engine mounted at the rear. (Picture from: DisenoArts)

Despite its attention-grabbing design, the Doodlebug’s production was limited, with only a handful built—some sources suggest as few as six. The exact number has been lost to history, as are the trucks themselves; none are known to have survived. It’s believed that the Doodlebugs were eventually scrapped or deliberately decommissioned, possibly due to advancements in tanker design or Texaco’s evolving needs. Another mystery surrounding the Doodlebug is its original color. While most images and models show it in the signature Texaco red, some historical accounts suggest it was initially painted black, though no concrete evidence has confirmed this.

The Texaco Diamond T Doodlebug’s production was limited, with only a handful built—some sources suggest as few as six. (Picture from: DisenoArts)

One of the Doodlebug’s most notable public appearances was at the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, where it attracted countless onlookers. People were fascinated by the Doodlebug’s distinct shape and advanced design. The truck was a remarkable 26 feet long, 92 inches wide, and, due to its low height, barely taller than a passenger sedan. This design gave it a stable weight distribution, ensuring smooth handling—a rare quality for tankers of that era.

The Texaco Diamond T Doodlebug was a remarkable 26 feet long, 92 inches wide, and, due to its low height, barely taller than a passenger sedan. (Picture from: DisenoArts)

The engineering behind the Doodlebug also included several unique features. Its rear-mounted Hercules engine required a special access door, allowing mechanics to easily work on the engine. For additional convenience, the entire rear section could be removed if the engine needed to be taken out. The cab design, with its 180-degree field of vision provided by a curved glass windshield, was revolutionary for the time and would later inspire other vehicle designs.

The Texaco Diamond T Doodlebug is thought that Norman Bel Geddes and his team worked with Howard W. Kizer and C.A.Pierce, Chief Engineer for Diamond T, to come up with the radical, streamlined design. (Picture from: TexacoTankerProject)

The influence of the Texaco Doodlebug even crossed international borders. In 1934, a tanker with similar styling appeared in Sydney, Australia, commissioned by the British Australian Petroleum Company. While it resembled the Doodlebug from the front, the unique rear styling created by Bel Geddes was not replicated in this Australian version. Still, the inspiration was clear, and it underscored the Doodlebug’s impact on automotive design worldwide. | GTlLzwunWic |

Although the Texaco Doodlebug is no longer around, its legacy endures in historical records and photographs. This tanker truck captivated imaginations in its time and remains a testament to what is possible when function and forward-thinking design merge. The Texaco Doodlebug stands as a reminder of an era that embraced daring ideas, proving that a simple utility vehicle could also be a groundbreaking symbol of innovation. Thanks to the dedication of automotive historians, the spirit of the Doodlebug continues to live on, inspiring admiration for a truck that was ahead of its time. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GENE 1968 IN X | WIKIPEDIA | TEXACOTANKERPROJECT | ICONICRIDES'S STORY IN FACEBOOK | HEMMINGS | WEIRDWHEELS | DISENOARTS ]

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Ford Corrida Concept: Ghia’s Bold Vision of a Compact Sports Car

Unique ONES - In the world of automotive design, concept cars often act as imaginative showcases, blending artistry and engineering to give enthusiasts a glimpse into the future. The Ford Corrida Concept by Ghia is one such car, representing Ford’s exploration of small sports coupe possibilities and featuring Ghia’s signature design influence. 

The Ford Corrida Concept by Ghia built on a Fiesta platform with a 90-inch wheelbase, included gull-wing doors, hinged at the top and folding in the middle. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Wood-Crafted Model of Mercedes 300 SL

ARTWORK - In the world of automobiles, where innovation meets heritage, the allure of classic cars often brings about fascination and reverence. Among these iconic vehicles, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL stands out as a symbol of both elegance and engineering excellence. Known for its sleek design and groundbreaking features, this two-seater coupe has captivated car enthusiasts and collectors alike. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL is not just a car; it's a piece of automotive history, cherished for its rarity and performance.

The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, cherished for its rarity and performance, has inspired enthusiasts and artisans to create replicas that honor its legacy. (Picture from: id.Motor1)

Manufactured in limited numbers, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL is a testament to the exclusivity of its era. With only a thousand units produced, each car represents a significant achievement in automotive design. Notable figures such as legendary racer Juan Manuel Fangio and former Indonesian President B.J. Habibie have owned versions of this remarkable vehicle, further cementing its place in automotive lore.

Woodworking Art's detailed wooden Mercedes 300 SL model with functional gullwing doors. (Picture from: Woodworking Art's Youtube Channel)

Adding to its mystique, the 1956 Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut coupe has recently garnered attention as one of the most valuable cars in the world. With a staggering auction price of $142 million, this rare road-going race car has surpassed the previous record set by the Ferrari 250 GTO. Such figures highlight the unparalleled value and prestige associated with these classic cars.

This Mercedes 300 SL wooden model is not merely a decorative piece; it incorporates moving parts and intricate details that honor the original’s craftsmanship. (Picture from: Woodworking Art's Youtube Channel)

Despite their rarity, the 300 SL's influence extends beyond its original form. Enthusiasts and artisans alike have created replicas to celebrate and preserve its legacy. One such extraordinary replication comes from the world of woodworking. Imagine a replica model of the 300 SL meticulously crafted from wood, complete with functional gullwing doors that mirror the original’s unique design. This wooden masterpiece is not merely a decorative piece; it incorporates moving parts and intricate details that honor the original’s craftsmanship.

Its detail and precision offer a unique parallel to the Mercedes 300 SL, underscoring the diverse ways in which classic cars can be celebrated through craftsmanship. (Picture from: Woodworking Art's Youtube Channel)

The YouTube channel Woodworking Art has dedicated itself to bringing this wooden replica model of the Mercedes 300 SL to life. Their dedication to detail is evident in the functional gullwing doors and the ability to open the hood and trunk. This scaled-model replica goes beyond aesthetic mimicry, offering a tactile experience that pays homage to the classic sports car’s engineering.

Woodworking Art's craftsmanship showcases the intersection of traditional woodworking skills and classic automotive design, creating a piece that is both functional and historically significant. (Picture from: Woodworking Art's Youtube Channel)

Woodworking Art's project demonstrates a profound respect for the 300 SL, transforming it from a cherished memory into a tangible work of art. Their craftsmanship showcases the intersection of traditional woodworking skills and classic automotive design, creating a piece that is both functional and historically significant. | LOI3M3PGqqI |

Wooden replicas of cars are not uncommon, but few reach the level of artistry found in this wooden Mercedes Gullwing. Another remarkable example is the Wooden Karmann Ghia Cabriolet from Jepara in real-size. This intricately crafted replica also showcases the incredible talent of artisans who blend automotive design with woodworking excellence. Its detail and precision offer a unique parallel to the Mercedes 300 SL replica, underscoring the diverse ways in which classic cars can be celebrated through craftsmanship.

Other wooden automotive creations by Jepara craftsmen include a full-scale, driveable teak replica of the 1964 Karmann Ghia. (Picture from: OtoTrend)

In a world where classic cars often remain out of reach for many, such replicas offer a way to connect with automotive heritage. They serve as reminders of the beauty and innovation that defined an era, allowing enthusiasts to experience a piece of that history in a new and creative form. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WOODWORKINGART | ID.MOTOR1 | OTOTREND | MURIA NEWS | OTO DETIK | TRIBUNNEWS JOGJA ]

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