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Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Cadillac EldoRODo Concept: A Bold Twist on the Classic Eldorado

Retro Swagger - In the ever-evolving world of automotive design, few creations manage to blend the audacity of custom car culture with the prestige of a luxury brand quite like the Cadillac Eldorado Show Car, also known as the EldoRODo Concept. For enthusiasts who appreciate bold expression on four wheels, this one-off masterpiece stands as a dazzling reminder of a time when carmakers weren’t afraid to break the mold and go all-in on creativity.
GM’s "EldoRODo" 1999 Cadillac Concept Show Car is believed to have been developed by GM designers and customized by California Street Rods’ Chuck Lombardo. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Commissioned by General Motors at the turn of the millennium, this isn’t just another show car—it’s a full-throttle tribute to the vibrant Southern California custom car scene. Debuting in style at the Los Angeles and Detroit auto shows, the EldoRODo wasn’t built to forecast the future of Cadillac’s design language. Instead, it was designed to celebrate the roots of American car customization: lowriders, chopped tops, bold colors, and attitude to spare.
GM’s "EldoRODo" 1999 Cadillac Concept Show Car is a full-throttle tribute to the vibrant Southern California custom car scene, and made its debut in style at the Los Angeles and Detroit auto shows. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Finished in a vivid creamsicle orange, this Cadillac Eldorado received the full SoCal treatment at the hands of California Street Rods in Huntington Beach. The customization is extensive and deliberate. Every exterior panel was modified. The roof was chopped for a sleeker profile, while the windshield and rear window were given a sharper rake, creating a more aggressive stance. Gone are the factory trim pieces, replaced with smooth, uninterrupted lines that make the car appear even lower than it already is—about four inches lower than a stock Eldorado Touring Coupe.
GM’s 1999 “EldoRODo” Cadillac Concept Show Car, finished in vivid creamsicle orange, featured fully modified body panels, a chopped roof, and sharply raked glass for a sleeker, more aggressive stance. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
And then there are the rear wheel skirtsmassive extensions that nearly engulf the custom 18-inch wheels. They add a level of drama that’s rare even among high-end concept cars. Despite its radical appearance, the mechanical heart of the vehicle remains largely factory-spec. Under the hood lies a 4.6-liter Northstar V8 engine that pumps out 300 horsepower, mated to a four-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. It’s a nod to Cadillac’s commitment to performance, even in a car designed for show rather than the open road.
The cabin of GM’s 1999 “EldoRODo” Cadillac Concept features Neutral Shale leather seats, Bose audio, multi-format stereo, dual-zone climate, power accessories, and carbon fiber trim throughout. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
What makes this concept especially unique is how convincingly it marries classic hot rod aesthetics with modern Cadillac luxury. It doesn’t just wear its custom look—it owns it. From every angle, it shouts personality and craftsmanship. It’s a car that doesn’t just turn heads; it sparks conversations.
GM’s "EldoRODo" 1999 Cadillac Concept Show Car powered by a 4.6-liter Northstar V8 engine that pumps out 300 horsepower, mated to a four-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Interestingly, the EldoRODo Concept later found its way into the garage of Tyler Hoovie, the YouTube personality behind Hoovies Garage. However, despite its road-worthy appearance, driving it on public streets presents challenges. General Motors sold the car with a junk title during its bankruptcy period, essentially preventing future legal liability—but also complicating registration for everyday use. That said, it’s still a showstopper on the car show circuit, even if it has to arrive on a trailer.
The GM’s 1999 “EldoRODo” Cadillac Concept features massive rear wheel skirts that nearly engulf the custom 18-inch wheels, adding a dramatic flair rarely seen even in high-end concept cars. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Today, the EldoRODo represents more than just a concept car. It’s a time capsule of early-2000s optimism and design experimentation—a rolling slice of Y2K nostalgia with chrome, curves, and charisma to spare. And for those who’ve ever dreamed of owning a one-of-a-kind Cadillac unlike anything else on the road, now’s the time to act. | DDgLGzwc-CI |
For those with a love for custom culture and Cadillac luxury, the EldoRODo Concept is more than a car. It's a bold statement, frozen in time, ready to make its next appearance in the spotlight. This remarkable piece of automotive art is currently up for grabs on Bring a Trailer, with the auction wrapping up on April 16. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BRINGATRAILER | CARANDDRIVER | ]
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The Beast: A Wild Supercar Born from a Lamborghini Diablo

Radical Transformation - It’s not every day that you see a supercar that completely defies convention. Many exotic cars push the boundaries of design, but few go as far as transforming an already legendary model into something almost unrecognizable. That’s exactly what happened with a Lamborghini Diablo in Japan, which has been reborn as an aggressive, over-the-top machine known as The Beast.
The Beast is an extreme transformation of the Lamborghini Diablo into something that looks straight out of a futuristic anime, crafted by Value Progress. (Picture from: Carscoops)
At first glance, you might think it’s another supercar knockoff, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Unlike most extravagant builds that simply add wild body kits to standard cars, this creation retains its prestigious roots. The Beast is not built on a common sports car platform—it’s still a Lamborghini underneath. However, the team at Value Progress, the Japanese company behind the transformation, took the original Diablo and reshaped it into something that looks like it came straight out of a futuristic anime.
The Beast features a long, pointed nose with vertically stacked headlights, high-mounted fog lights, and an aggressive splitter at the front. (Picture from: Carscoops)
The goal was simple: create a Japanese-made supercar that would leave people in awe. The final result certainly delivers. Every single body panel of the Diablo was replaced, except for the windshield. The new design is an explosion of sharp angles, exaggerated wings, and vents, heavily influenced by Japan’s bosozoku car culture. It looks like a Lamborghini Veneno taken to an extreme level, with styling so intense that it borders on the surreal.
The Beast's design is an explosion of sharp angles, exaggerated wings, and vents, heavily inspired by Japan’s bosozoku car culture, resembling a Lamborghini Veneno taken to an extreme, surreal level. (Picture from: Carscoops)
At the front, The Beast sports a long, pointed nose with vertically stacked headlights, high-mounted fog lights, and an aggressive splitter. But even that pales in comparison to the rear. The back end is a masterpiece of excess, featuring widened fenders, an intricate diffuser, and a towering central fin that connects to a massive wing. The eight round taillights and four high-mounted exhaust pipes add even more drama, making it clear that subtlety was never part of the plan.
The Beast's back end is a masterpiece of excess, with widened fenders, an intricate diffuser, and a towering central fin that connects to a massive wing. (Picture from: Carscoops)
In terms of size, The Beast dwarfs the already imposing Diablo. It’s a full 570 mm (22.4 inches) longer and 360 mm (14.2 inches) wider, giving it an even more menacing presence. Measuring 5,030 mm (198 inches) in length and 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) in width, this machine demands attention from every angle. The roof itself is just 1,100 mm (43.3 inches) tall, making the car look even more dramatic, thanks to its towering wing structure.
The Beast's eight round taillights and four high-mounted exhaust pipes add even more drama, making it clear that subtlety was never the goal. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Despite its radical design, the heart of The Beast remains familiar. It still runs on the Diablo’s 5.7-liter V12 engine, paired with a manual transmission. Depending on the original model, it could produce anywhere from 485 to 595 horsepower, ensuring that this machine is just as powerful as it looks. While the team at Value Progress hasn’t disclosed details on performance upgrades, they emphasize the car’s advanced suspension and braking system, suggesting that it’s not just for show. | N3fu9gsZ2K0 |
The Beast made its public debut at the Osaka Auto Messe 2025, where it instantly became a highlight of the event. Whether or not it will be made available for purchase—or if it even remains street legal after its extreme modifications—remains a mystery. But one thing is certain: this outrageous creation is impossible to ignore. It’s a bold statement in the world of custom supercars, proving that when it comes to pushing boundaries, Japan always finds a way to take things further than anyone else. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSCOOPS  | AUTO YAHOO ]
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Tuesday, April 15, 2025

Mazda RX Dream Cars That Never Reached the Streets

Rotary Reverie - In an era where the automotive industry is accelerating toward electrification and self-driving technology, it’s often the unseen, the unrealized, and the never-produced that leave the most lasting impressions. While showrooms today are dominated by practical innovations and efficiency-driven design, the world of concept cars continues to captivate our imagination. These vehicles, untethered from the constraints of mass production, allow designers and engineers to dream boldly—pushing the limits of what’s possible and hinting at what’s to come.
Mazda’s RX dream cars never made it to the streets, but they sparked the creation of legendary model like the RX-8. (Pictures from: Carbuzz and Wikipedia, Generated by ChatGPT)
For Mazda, that spirit of exploration was vividly expressed through its RX Concept series. These rotary-powered visions, spanning decades of development and innovation, weren’t just design exercises—they were emotional statements tied deeply to the brand’s heritage. Though none of these stunning machines made it to the production line, their presence still resonates. They symbolize a philosophy of passion over practicality and stand as powerful reminders of Mazda’s relentless commitment to its unique identity and engineering legacy.
 
1. Mazda RX-01: A Return to Simplicity
Back in 1995, Mazda unveiled the Mazda RX-01 at the Tokyo Motor Show, a sleek and modestly-sized coupe designed to deliver fun without frills. It was created in response to a tough economic climate and fading enthusiasm for luxury sports cars. Inspired by the philosophy behind the original RX-7, the RX-01 focused on pure, lightweight performance.
The Mazda RX-01 Concept, a sleek and modestly-sized coupe built to deliver pure driving fun without the frills, was developed in response to a challenging economic climate and declining interest in high-end sports cars. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
Under its hood was the improved 13B-MSP Wankel rotary engine, offering not just more power, but also better fuel economy and cleaner emissions. Everything about the RX-01 screamed “driver’s car”—affordable, straightforward, and genuinely exciting. Still, despite its promise and the hope of rotary fans worldwide, the RX-01 never made it into production. 
The Mazda RX-01 Concept was powered by an improved 13B-MSP Wankel rotary engine, delivering not only increased power, but also better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
Mazda’s financial constraints and market trends at the time leaned heavily toward SUVs, leaving this gem to exist only as a concept. However, its engine laid the groundwork for the RENESIS unit that would eventually power the RX-8.
 
2. Mazda RX-Evolv: Performance with a Practical Twist
Mazda’s rotary ambitions didn’t stop there. Four years later, at the 1999 Tokyo Motor Show, they introduced the Mazda RX-Evolva striking and unconventional four-door coupe. This wasn’t just a sports car; it was a fresh take on what a performance vehicle could look like. 
The Mazda RX-Evolv Concept, a striking and unconventional four-door coupe, offered a fresh take on what a performance vehicle could look like. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
Mazda wanted to appeal not just to lone drivers, but to groups of friends who could enjoy the ride together. At its heart was the Renesis rotary engine, still under development but already projected to hit up to 280 horsepower with a screaming 10,000 RPM redline. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive, it embodied everything Mazda stood for. 
The Mazda RX-Evolv Concept was powered by the Renesis rotary engine—still in development at the time, but already projected to deliver up to 280 horsepower with a high-revving 10,000 RPM redline. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
Despite its radical looks and strong engineering, the RX-Evolv also never made it past the concept stage. Yet, many of its ideas—especially the engine and layout—would shape the eventual RX-8 that debuted just a few years later.
 
3. Mazda RX-Vision: Beauty in Motion
Fast forward to 2015, and Mazda once again stole the spotlight at the Tokyo Motor Show with the Mazda RX-Vision. If the RX-Evolv was bold, the RX-Vision was breathtaking. It showcased Mazda’s most refined design philosophy, KODO—or “the soul of movement”—blending elegance and aggression in a package that looked ready to race.
The Mazda RX-Vision Concept embodied Mazda’s most refined design philosophy, KODO—'the soul of movement'—seamlessly blending elegance and aggression in a form that looked born for the track. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
Beneath the sculpted bodywork was the Skyactiv-R engine, a modern take on the rotary powertrain focused on lighter components and improved efficiency. While specifics on the engine’s configuration were limited, its GT3 Concept counterpart later revealed a four-rotor setup designed for racing in 2020
The Mazda RX-Vision Concept was powered by the Skyactiv-R engine—a modern interpretation of the rotary powertrain, designed with lighter components and improved efficiency in mind. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
The RX-Vision wasn’t just admired by fans—it was voted “Most Beautiful Concept Car” in 2016 at the International Automobile Festival in Paris. Still, it too remained a dream, never progressing beyond the show floor or video game simulators like Gran Turismo Sport.
The Mazda RX-Vision GT3 Concept featured a four-rotor setup engineered for racing, but it remained a dream—never advancing beyond the show floor or virtual tracks in games like Gran Turismo Sport. (Picture from: CintaMobil)
The RX-01, RX-Evolv, and RX-Vision may never have reached dealerships, but their stories continue to inspire. Each car represented a unique moment in Mazda’s journey to keep the rotary engine alive—not as a relic of the past, but as a symbol of identity and innovation. These were more than just concepts; they were bold statements in an industry that often plays it safe. 
Through their creativity and courage, Mazda reminded the world that cars can still be emotional, personal, and thrilling. While these RX concepts may not have become tangible realities, they live on as the embodiment of what makes driving—and dreaming—so powerful. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARBUZZ | CARMEMMORIES | CLUB.SHANNON.COM.AU | WIKIPEDIA | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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Iconic Jaguar E-Type Redesigned by Modena's Italian Craftsmen

Artistic Precision - In the world of classic automobiles, some stories stand out for their uniqueness and craftsmanship. Among these tales is the intriguing collaboration between British engineering and Italian artistry. While Jaguar is renowned for its sleek designs and remarkable performance, it is not every day that one hears about a Jaguar E-Type being transformed by Italian coachbuilders. This exceptional creation, crafted by Carrozzeria Sports Cars of Modena, epitomizes the perfect marriage of these two automotive worlds.
Artisans at Carrozzeria Sports Cars of Modena dedicated an impressive 2,700 hours to crafting a chassis for the elongated 2+2 coupé design of this Jaguar E-Type. (Picture from: DeviatArt)
This one-of-a-kind vehicle began its journey with a clear vision from its French commissioner. The foundation was a 1965 Jaguar E-Type, chosen for its robust mechanical engineering and iconic style. Yet, the final product was far from an ordinary E-Type. It featured an extensively modified body, sculpted entirely by hand from sheet iron. The Italian artisans poured a remarkable 2,700 hours into crafting a chassis that supported an elongated 2+2 coupé design. This dedication to detail transformed the vehicle into a masterpiece that retained Jaguar's essence while embracing a bold new form.
The Jaguar E-Type by Carrozzeria Sports Cars of Modena's interior blends elegance and practicality, featuring comfortable front seats, spacious rear seats, and a luxurious black leather dashboard with red carpeting. (Picture from: DeviatArt)
The interior of the car was designed with both elegance and practicality in mind. The front seats were crafted for maximum comfort, while the rear seats offered more space than one might expect in a coupé of its class. The choice of materials reflected the car's luxurious nature: a black leather dashboard complemented by red carpeting, creating a striking yet sophisticated cabin environment. The iconic spoked wheels of the original E-Type were preserved, although a second version was envisioned with Campagnolo cast elektron wheels, showcasing the flexibility of the Modena craftsmen’s vision.
The Jaguar E-Type by Carrozzeria Sports Cars of Modena finished in a sleek grey exterior, the car was a testament to the singularity and individuality that defined the creations of the Italian coachbuilder. (Picture from: DeviatArt)
Finished in a sleek grey exterior, the car was a testament to the singularity and individuality that defined the creations of Carrozzeria Sports Cars Modena. Each vehicle that left their workshop bore unique characteristics, making them truly one-of-a-kind. This particular Jaguar, with its elegant proportions and meticulous detailing, was no exception. It became a collector's dream and a symbol of what can be achieved when two distinct automotive philosophies merge.
The Jaguar E-Type by Carrozzeria Sports Cars of Modena stands out with its unique characteristics, elegant proportions, and meticulous detailing, making it a collector's dream and a symbol of the fusion of two automotive philosophies. (Picture from: DeviatArt)
In the end, this Jaguar E-Type by Carrozzeria Sports Cars Modena is not just a car; it’s a story of innovation, craftsmanship, and passion. It reminds us that when artistry meets engineering, the result can transcend mere utility to become a work of art. This singular creation continues to inspire admiration and spark curiosity, proving that the fusion of British and Italian expertise can produce something truly timeless. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DANNATAVINTAGE | DEVIANTART | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Monday, April 14, 2025

Ferrari 512 S: Redefining Racing Dominance in 1970

Racing Renaissance - In the world of motorsport, few names ignite passion and admiration like Ferrari. Synonymous with speed, innovation, and Italian craftsmanship, Ferrari has left an indelible mark on the racing world. Among its storied creations, the Ferrari 512 S stands out as a testament to the brand's relentless pursuit of excellence. Born from a desire to challenge the dominance of rivals, particularly Porsche, this remarkable car showcases not only Ferrari's engineering prowess but also its ability to adapt and innovate under competitive pressure.
The 1970 Ferrari 512 S, was on display at Goodwood on July 13, 2023, and is owned by famous drummer Nick Mason, frequently showcased at these annual events. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The genesis of the Ferrari 512 S began in 1969, a pivotal year for Ferrari as it sought to create a machine capable of contending in the 1970 Group 5 Sports Car Championship. The competition was fierce, with the Porsche 917 setting the benchmark. Regulations mandated that manufacturers produce at least 25 examples of a model to meet homologation requirements. Ferrari rose to the challenge, and by January 1970, these stunning machines were lined up for FIA inspection at Maranello, symbolizing the culmination of tireless effort and ingenuity.
The 1970 Ferrari 512 S is powered by a formidable powertrain: a mid-mounted 5.0-liter V12 engine paired with Lucas indirect fuel injection. (Picture from: RMSothebys)
At the heart of the Ferrari 512 S was its formidable powertrain: a mid-mounted 5.0-liter V12 engine paired with Lucas indirect fuel injection. This powerhouse delivered an impressive 550 horsepower at 8,500 rpm, transferring its might to the rear wheels via a five-speed transaxle. Designed for versatility, the 512 S came in two configurations—berlinetta (closed coupe) and spider (open-top)with its lightweight fiberglass body affixed to an aluminum semi-monocoque chassis reinforced by a steel tube frame. For endurance races like the Le Mans 24 Hours, a specialized "coda lunga" or long-tail body was developed to enhance aerodynamic efficiency, particularly on high-speed straights like the Mulsanne.
The 1970 Ferrari 512 S #1006 is widely considered to be the most original 512 Spider in existence since it has never been restored. (Picture from: Carswp)
The 512 S made an immediate impact during its racing debut season in 1970. Its crowning achievement came during its second outing at the 12 Hours of Sebring, where a works entry piloted by Andretti, Giunti, and Vaccarella triumphed after overcoming early setbacks. This victory underscored the car's potential, even as it contended with the formidable Porsche 917, which ultimately edged Ferrari in reliability and secured the Manufacturer’s Championship. Beyond Sebring, the 512 S continued to demonstrate its capability, securing wins in events like the Fuji 200 Mile Race and achieving podium finishes in other competitions.
Mike Parkes, driving Scuderia Filipinetti's Ferrari 512 S (Chassis No. 1008), achieved a fourth-place finish alongside Herbert Müller at the 1970 1000km Nürburgring. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
As the 1971 season dawned, Ferrari shifted its focus to the 312 P(B) sports prototype, leaving the 512 S largely in the hands of privateers. However, the company offered an upgraded "M" package, short for "Modificato" or modified. This iteration featured a sleeker, more aerodynamic design that improved the car's competitiveness. All cars converted to the "M" specification adopted a coupe body style, reflecting Ferrari's commitment to evolution and innovation.
Nino Vaccarella, behind the wheel of the Ferrari 512 S Spyder (Chassis No. 1042), secured a third-place finish with John Surtees at the 1970 1000km Nürburgring. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
In the United States, the Roger Penske team took the Ferrari 512 M to new heights, developing chassis #1040 into the fastest 512 ever. Despite its speed, success proved elusive in a season dominated by other competitors. Late in 1971, Ferrari experimented further with the model, adapting chassis #1010 with a 7.0-liter engine for the American Can-Am series. Driven by Mario Andretti, it achieved a respectable fourth-place finish at Watkins Glen before being sold to the North American Racing Team (NART).
The modified Ferrari 512 M (Chassis No. 1044) driven by Herbert Müller in 1971, showcased its prowess on the legendary Nürburgring circuit. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The legacy of the Ferrari 512 S is deeply intertwined with its homologation story. While 25 units were initially built to satisfy regulations, several were repurposed as spare parts over time. Most of the original 512 S models were eventually converted to the "M" (Modificato or Modified) specification, blurring the lines between the two versions. The cars bore serial numbers ranging from 1002 to 1050, with exceptions like the unused 1000 and 900 numbers adding a touch of mystery to the production history.
The Ferrari 712 Can Am built based on the Ferrari 512 S (Chassis No. 1010) sat on display at the Retromobile 2012 in Paris. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Ferrari 512 S remains a symbol of resilience and ingenuity, a car forged through fierce competition and refined by relentless development. Its journey is one of ambition, triumph, and adaptation, embodying the very essence of Ferrari’s spirit. Despite facing challenges on the track, the 512 S endures as a testament to the artistry and determination that define the Prancing Horse.
Notably, its legendary status was underscored when the 1970 Ferrari 512 S #1006 sold for an impressive $3,567,432 (approximately €2,640,000) at the 2007 RM Auctions Ferrari – Legend e Passione event. Even today, it continues to captivate racing enthusiasts and collectors, standing as an enduring symbol of Ferrari’s relentless pursuit of perfection. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | BARCHETTA.CC | RMSOTHEBYS | CONCEPTCARZ | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Innocenti Ghia IXG Dragster: A Vision of Speed and Design

Speed Evolution - Italy’s automotive heritage is shaped by a spirit of relentless innovation and competition. Following World War II, this drive reached new heights, especially in the fierce rivalry between Piaggio and Innocenti. Their Vespa and Lambretta scooters not only embodied Italian mobility but also sparked a battle for speed supremacy. Each brand aimed not only to conquer the roads but also to set new speed records that would cement their legacy in history.
The Innocenti Ghia IXG Dragster was the result of Innocenti's expansion into the automotive world, achieved through collaboration with the prestigious Ghia design house to create a groundbreaking vehicle. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
In 1951, Piaggio introduced the Vespa Siluro, a sleek, 125 cc scooter that achieved an impressive speed of 171.02 km/h. This set a new record, challenging other manufacturers to push the boundaries of what was possible. Not one to back down, Innocenti launched its Lambretta Siluro the same year, reaching a top speed of 201 km/h, surpassing Piaggio’s record and making a bold statement in the scooter world. This rivalry between the two giants reflected Italy’s post-war spirit of innovation and the desire to dominate on both the road and the record books.
The Innocenti Ghia IXG Dragster, an experimental prototype unveiled at the 1960 Turin Motor Show, was designed to set speed records in the under-1,000 cc class. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
Building on this competitive spirit, Innocenti expanded into the automotive world, collaborating with the prestigious Ghia design house to create a groundbreaking vehicle. The result was the Innocenti Ghia IXG Dragster, an experimental prototype that debuted at the 1960 Turin Motor Show. The IXG Dragster aimed to break speed records in the under-1,000 cc class and was a bold step forward in automotive design. The Innocenti car seemed to be designed as a rival to the Abarth 1000 Monoposto da Record "La Principessa," which also made its debut at the same event under almost similar design.
The Innocenti Ghia IXG Dragster's stunning bodywork was the work of Tom Tjaarda, a celebrated designer at Ghia, known for his ability to blend aesthetic appeal with functional design. (Picture from: AutoAppassionati.it)
The IXG Dragster’s stunning bodywork was the work of Tom Tjaarda, a celebrated designer at Ghia. Known for his ability to blend aesthetic appeal with functional design, Tjaarda's vision brought the IXG Dragster’s aerodynamics to the forefront. The car featured an innovative layout where the 948 cc engine from the Innocenti 950 Spider was placed near the center, while the driver’s position was almost horizontal at the rear, contributing to its streamlined form. Notably, the car also featured one of the first aerodynamically optimized underbodies, a concept that would later influence racing car designs.
The Innocenti Ghia IXG Dragster boasted advanced aerodynamics, a centrally positioned 948 cc engine, and a nearly horizontal driver placement for peak performance. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
Despite the IXG Dragster’s innovative design and the excitement surrounding its debut, the project faced obstacles. Financial constraints and shifting priorities at Innocenti meant the car was never able to achieve its intended purpose of setting new speed records. Although the IXG Dragster never fully realized its potential, its design remains a symbol of Italian innovation during an era of rapid progress in automotive technology.
The Innocenti Ghia IXG Dragster boasted advanced aerodynamics, a centrally positioned 948 cc engine, and a nearly horizontal driver placement for peak performance. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
In 2002, the IXG Dragster resurfaced when Ghia (which had been acquired by Ford in 1973) auctioned it as part of a collection of rare and unique vehicles. While the IXG Dragster’s time in the spotlight was brief, its legacy endures as a reminder of the bold ideas and daring vision that characterized Italy’s automotive innovation during the 1960s. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DANNATAVINTAGE | AUTOAPPASSIONATI.IT | STORY-CARS | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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