Elegance Unleashed - This gorgeous Moray project result presented for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show on March 4, 2003, embodies the homage that Giorgetto and Fabrizio Giugiaro wish to pay to the fifty-year era of the Chevrolet Corvette, the supreme symbol of the American sports car under the name of Italdesign Chevrolet Corvette Moray.
2003 Italdesign Chevrolet Corvette Moray built by Italdesign to pay homage to the 50-years of the Chevrolet Corvette era in 2003. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Realized without hesitation on Corvette mechanics and chassis, the outcome of seeking out a sports car designed as an elegant extreme leap into the limelight carrying a pure profile, designed as though touched by drifting tides with long and slender front lights, bringing immediately to the mind the Moray, the English term for the eel-type fish, which found in Mediterranean waters.
2003 Italdesign Chevrolet Corvette Moray is presented for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show on March 4, 2003. (Picture from: TopSpeed)
Also resembling a moray rippling through sea waters is the sinuous contour line, whilst shaping the elongated front section (an unmistakable look of the Corvette grille) to a far stronger, more accentuated curvature is the serpentine bonnet (which projects frontward) forming a contrast with the upraised cut-off tail.
2003 Italdesign Chevrolet Corvette Moray is fitted with a powerful front-mounted six-liter Chevrolet Corvette V8 engine to spew abundant power of more than 400 hp. (Picture from: Mobile.CorvetteStory)
"We vowed to honor the rhetorical principles that dictated the American muscle-car of excellence era: simplicity and pragmatism, hand lasting with the hedonist concept of sportiness evolving beyond the restraints of time," explain Giorgetto and Fabrizio Giugiaro.
The dashboard of the 2003 Italdesign Chevrolet Corvette Moray is fitted with various instruments and a steady steering wheel. (Picture from: Mobile.CorvetteStory)
Hinged to the rear door frame, thereby assuring freedom of access to the inside of the car, the clear crystal semi-dome of the doors (by which the side window and roof merge into one complete unit) swings open like seagull wings.
Quick and simple to remove, these door wings ease the way to transforming the Moray from a coupé, with its unmistakable roof panel under the unique, clear crystal dome, into a quasi roadster. The direct, immediate feeling of fresh-air motoring is enhanced by removing the B door frame.
Look this cozy, elegant, and ergonomic seat also fitted inside the cabin of the 2003 Italdesign Chevrolet Corvette Moray. (Picture from: Mobile.CorvetteStory)
This is replaced by a central arch-shaped steel structure to which the two wings are hinged. In perfect symbiosis with the fresh and free extreme of the car, there are no side-mirrors, which have been replaced by some kind of CCTV system with dashboard-integrated viewers.
The 2003 Italdesign Chevrolet Corvette Moray has the bodyshell and paintwork color blends into the capsule, becoming one and the same. (Picture from: Mobile.CorvetteStory)
The bodyshell and paintwork color blends into the capsule, becoming one and the same. Only those surfaces inside the car touched by the driver or passenger are warmed by soft leather upholstery made with the cooperation of Dräxlmaier Group.
Essential to catering the needs and preferences of the dynamic driver are its dashboards fitted with various instruments. Underlined by the same dashboard layout, assigned to the passenger are precise co-pilot functions.
Cool, sleek and supremely agile, of exceptional beauty and legerdemain like the sea creature from which it takes its name, the Moray is fitted with a powerful Chevrolet Corvette V8 engine, the longitude front-mounted six-liter, which reaches command of more than 400 horsepower, combined with a perfect balance ensured from the ground up by Michelin Pilot sport 335/30 ZR20 rear tires. *** [EKA [18052020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ITALDESIGN] | TOP SPEED | SUPERCARS.NET | MOBILE.CORVETTESTORY ]
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Enduring Brilliance - There’s something timeless about the roar of a race car at full tilt, especially when it belongs to a machine built not just for speed, but for absolute dominance. Throughout history, a handful of cars have redefined what it means to be fast, and few have managed to leave the kind of legacy forged by the Porsche 935. As whispers of its legend continue to circulate among car enthusiasts, the story of the Porsche 935 'Baby' — and its incredible rebirth — deserves to be revisited, especially for those who appreciate the craft behind true automotive masterpieces.
The 1977 Porsche 935 'Baby' was a 911 racing version that brought home another World Sportscar Championship in 1976, after a five-year hiatus. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
Carved Ambition - When we talk about innovation in the automotive world, we often picture names like Ferrari, Tesla, or Porsche—brands that have consistently been in the spotlight. But hidden among the giants, there was a brief, bold, and fascinating attempt by an unexpected name: Samsung. Known globally for its dominance in electronics—smartphones, TVs, refrigerators—you’d be forgiven for not associating the South Korean tech giant with sports cars. However, in the late 1990s, Samsung made a daring move that brought them into the fast-paced world of performance vehicles, with the creation of the Samsung Sports Car-1 (SSC-1).
This story begins with Lee Kun-hee, the ambitious chairman of Samsung, whose vision went beyond circuit boards and home appliances. In the thick of the 1990s, Lee harbored dreams of entering the automotive market—not just with regular passenger vehicles, but by producing a sleek, powerful sports car that could compete with global players. After a failed attempt to acquire Kia Motors, Samsung didn't back down. Instead, they established two new subsidiaries: Samsung Motors, focused on producing cars, and Samsung Commercial Vehicles, for trucks and heavy equipment.
The Samsung Sports Car-1 (SSC-1) is a testament to the South Korean manufacturer’s bold ambition to make its mark in the automotive world. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
1997 was a significant year for Samsung’s automotive dreams. Despite the ongoing Asian financial crisis, the company managed to unveil something extraordinary at the Seoul Motor Show: the SSC-1, which stood for Samsung Sports Car-1. Unlike anything Samsung had produced before, this prototype turned heads with its bold design and serious performance specs. Borrowing design cues and parts from Nissan, thanks to a technical partnership, the SSC-1 came equipped with a fiberglass body and a 2.5-liter V6 engine sourced from Nissan—delivering 190 horsepower. A 5-speed manual transmission, Brembo brakes, and a double wishbone suspension system rounded out the car’s impressive feature list, making it more than just a visual concept—it was road-ready.
The Samsung Sports Car-1 (SSC-1) is a sleek and powerful sports car that made its debut at the 1997 Seoul Motor Show. (Picture from: MotoringWeekly)
At first glance, the SSC-1 had similarities to the Nissan 300ZX and possibly even the French-built Venturi Atlantique, sparking rumors about its origins. Some speculated that Samsung may have used or even modified an imported chassis to fast-track the project. Either way, the result was a fully functional prototype that gave Samsung a presence in a sector no one expected them to explore.
The interior design of the Samsung Sports Car-1 (SSC-1) closely resembles that of the Nissan 300ZX, reflecting similar styling cues and layout.(Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Despite the initial excitement, the SSC-1never entered mass production, as the economic downturn and declining sports car sales in the late '90s strained Samsung’s finances and forced the project to be shelved; adding to its mystique, a silver version was seen in 1997, while a yellow one appeared in the early 2000s—sparking speculation about multiple prototypes or a repaint—though today, the only known SSC-1, now yellow, resides at the Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance Transportation Museum in Yongin, South Korea, serving as a lasting symbol of the company’s bold ambition.
The Samsung Sports Car-1 (SSC-1) prototype turned heads with its bold design and impressive performance, featuring a fiberglass body and a 2.5-liter V6 engine sourced from Nissan through a technical partnership. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Following the SSC-1, Samsung shifted focus. In 1998, they sold a significant portion of Samsung Motors to Renault, leading to the formation of Renault-Samsung Motors. This partnership pivoted the company towards practical sedans and everyday vehicles, many of which were rebadged versions of Renault or Nissan models. Although this meant saying goodbye to the dream of a Samsung sports car, it allowed the company to stay afloat in the automotive sector. | 9MF2O1WvUPQ |
It’s easy to look back on the SSC-1 as just another forgotten concept, but it represents something far more interesting—a moment when a tech titan dared to challenge convention. Even if it never made it to production lines, the SSC-1 showed that Samsung wasn’t afraid to break out of its comfort zone and aim for something thrilling, fast, and entirely unexpected. And for car enthusiasts and tech lovers alike, that boldness is what truly makes the SSC-1 unforgettable. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ON FACEBOOK | MOTORINGWEEKLY | ALLCARINDEX | AUTO.CZ | DYLER ]
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Forgotten ONES - Motorcycles and scooters have long been symbols of freedom, efficiency, and design ingenuity. As transportation evolved, manufacturers continually sought to create vehicles that were not only functional but also aesthetically appealing and innovative in their technology.
In the early 1950s, DKW, already a well-known name in the two-wheeled vehicle industry, gained further recognition through models like the 1955 DKW Hobby scooter. (Picture from: CaClassicScooter)
Defying Odds - For those who find beauty in rare machines and stories of fearless ingenuity, few tales are as captivating as the legacy left by Maurice 'Maus' Gatsonides. Not long ago, we explored one of his standout creations—the 1948 Gatso 4000 Aero, a sleek and ambitious sports car that reflected his unique approach to automotive design. But behind every great machine is a greater story, and Gatsonides had more than one ace up his sleeve. One of them was the Gatso 1500 'Platje', a spirited little roadster affectionately nicknamed by fans and admired for both its charm and unexpected performance.
The Gatso 1500 'Platje' was a spirited little roadster, built by Maus Gatsonides on a modified Fiat 1500 chassis, admired for its charm and surprising performance. (Picture from: WorldCarsFromThe1930sTo1980s in Facebook)
Gatsonides, a Dutchman with a relentless passion for motorsport, wasn’t content with just being behind the wheel. Long before his name became associated with the invention of the speed camera, he was making headlines as a rally driver. He competed in the Monte Carlo Rally over twenty times, even winning it in 1953 with a Ford Zephyr. But racing wasn't just a pastime—it was his laboratory. Every turn, every finish line, fed into his dream of building the perfect sports car under his own brand, Gatso, which he officially launched in 1948.
Maus Gatsonides at the wheel of the Gatso Aero Coupé, accompanied by his wife Siska and two colleagues in the back. (Picture from: VeloceToday)
While some of his early builds borrowed powerful components from Ford—including Mercury’s robust V8 engines—one particular project took a different route. Built on a modified chassis from the Fiat 1500, Gatsonides designed a lightweight, minimalist racing roadster aimed at dominating its class. At its core was a 1.5-liter inline-six engine producing a modest 47 horsepower. It might not sound like much on paper, but in practice, it was something else entirely.
The last Gatso, a low-slung roadster nicknamed “Platje,” used a Fiat 1500 chassis and engine, seen racing by Gatsonides at Zandvoort in 1949. (Picture from: VeloceToday)
The car made its racing debut on the iconic circuit of Zandvoort, and it didn’t just show up—it stole the spotlight. It outpaced a field of respected MGs and set a record lap time in its engine class, clocking an average speed of 102.5 km/h. The crowd took notice—not just of its performance, but of its strikingly low, flat profile. Inspired by its looks and perhaps charmed by its underdog spirit, spectators nicknamed it “Platje,” a Dutch term meaning something like “little flat one.”
The Gatso 1500 'Platje' was designed by Maus Gatsonides as a lightweight, minimalist racing roadster, built to dominate its class with a strikingly low, flat profile. (Picture from: Autogen.pl)
For Gatsonides, it was a moment of validation. The Platje was proof that his vision, no matter how unconventional, had the power to stir real excitement. Sadly, excitement alone couldn’t keep a small manufacturer afloat. The attempt to put Gatso cars into broader production met financial headwinds. Only a few units were sold, and with mounting debts, Gatsonides was forced to shut down operations. The Platje, once a symbol of promise, faded into obscurity.
The Gatso 1500 'Platje' features a stripped-down, purpose-built cockpit that reflects its racing spirit—exposed metal flooring, a clean dashboard lined with essential gauges, and a no-frills four-spoke steering wheel all emphasize its minimalist, driver-focused design philosophy. (Picture from: WorldCarsFromThe1930sTo1980s in Facebook)
But good stories don’t end that easily. After spending decades forgotten in a shed, the car resurfaced near the turn of the century and was lovingly restored by Joop Bruggeman. Today, it stands not only as a rare piece of automotive history but also as a tribute to one man’s relentless pursuit of speed and style.
The Gatso 1500 'Platje' was powered by a 1.5-liter inline-six engine of Fiat origin, delivering a modest 47 horsepower that proved surprisingly capable on the track. (Picture from: WorldCarsFromThe1930sTo1980s in Facebook)
Maus Gatsonides passed away in 1998 at the age of 88, but his creations—especially the Gatso 1500 Platje—continue to capture the imagination of those who appreciate the beauty of bold ideas, however fleeting they may be. Because sometimes, the greatest stories come from the smallest cars. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOGEN.PL | WIKIPEDIA | THESAHB | AUTA5P.EU | VELOCETODAY | WORLD CARS FROM THE 1930S TO 1980S IN FACEBOOK ]
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Iconic Rarity - In the golden age of automotive design, when curves were elegant and materials were bold, the world saw the rise of vehicles that dared to blend style with innovation. While names like Porsche and Volkswagen echoed across continents, one extraordinary effort was quietly taking shape in Australia—crafted not by a global automaker, but by a determined immigrant with a passion for European elegance and engineering. That creation was the Ascort TSV, a rare and fascinating coupe that remains a hidden gem in the history of Australian automotive design.
The Ascort TSV, styled by Mirek Craney and built in Australia, was inspired by the Porsche 356 and Volkswagen Karmann Ghia. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Born from the post-WWII migration wave, the Ascort TSV was the brainchild of Mirek Craney, a Czechoslovakian designer who found a new home in Australia. Inspired by the Porsche 356 and Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, Craney envisioned a car that could marry European sophistication with practical Australian sensibilities. The result was a four-seat grand tourer that balanced sportiness with everyday usability, built not for racing circuits but for families who wanted both flair and function on the open road.
The Ascort TSV featured a prestressed double-shell body bonded to a steel tubular frame—a smart engineering choice that enhanced safety and rigidity while keeping the weight low. (Picture from: Silodrome)
What truly set the Ascort TSV apart was its pioneering use of fiberglass—a cutting-edge material at the time, praised for its strength and lightness. Craney didn’t just use it for form; he used it for structure. The car featured a prestressed double shell body bonded to a steel tubular frame, a clever solution that increased safety and rigidity while keeping weight to a minimum. This innovative build gave the Ascort its distinctive shape and performance edge, all while tipping the scales at just 1,467 pounds.
Inside, the cabin features red vinyl upholstery, a cream two-spoke Porsche steering wheel, and a Blaupunkt radio. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Powering this unique coupe was a Volkswagen-sourced, air-cooled flat-four engine, enhanced with high-performance components from Okrasa and Porsche. The result was a peppy 54 bhp, a notable jump from the original 1,300cc engine’s output. Though modest by today’s standards, this power—paired with the lightweight body—gave the Ascortan impressive top speed of 96 mph and a 0 to 50 mph time of 12 seconds, making it a respectable performer in its era.
The interior clearly draws inspiration from the Porsche 356, with two rear bucket seats upholstered in red vinyl and divided by a central armrest. (Picture from: Silodrome)
The Ascort TSV made its public debut at the 1959 Melbourne Motor Display and quickly captured attention. With 57 pre-orders logged during the show, demand looked promising. But the challenges of scaling production soon became apparent. In the end, only 13 units were completed and delivered, with parts for an additional six vehicles left in various stages of assembly. The venture faded before it could fully take off, and Continental Coachwork—the company behind the Ascort—quietly slipped into obscurity.
The Ascort TSV is powered by a 356 engine, offering significantly more performance than the original 1.3-liter VW Beetle motor. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Yet, for those who know of its legacy, the Ascort TSV remains an unforgettable icon. Among the survivors is one particular example that has seen a life as rich and varied as its design. Once a showpiece, then a hill climb competitor, it has since been lovingly restored to its original form—though now powered by a more potent 1.6-liter Porsche 356 engine. With a four-speed manual transaxle, Porsche 356-spec brakes, and elegant silver paint over classic 15-inch steel wheels, it looks every bit the part of the stylish coupe Craney once imagined.
Finished in elegant silver paint and riding on classic 15-inch steel wheels, the Ascort TSV perfectly embodies the stylish coupe Craney once envisioned. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Inside, red vinyl seats contrast with a cream two-spoke Porsche steering wheel, all complemented by a vintage Blaupunkt radio. This car, meticulously cared for by its owner of 17 years, has just under 6,800 miles on the clock and comes with a collection of documentation, spare parts, and even a scale model. | _9bXghJM2D8 |
Today, the Ascort TSV stands as a testament to vision, craftsmanship, and the daring spirit of one man who believed Australia deserved a sports coupe of its own. Though few were ever built, the ones that remain continue to turn heads and tell a story that’s well worth remembering—a story of ambition, ingenuity, and a beautiful blend of cultures, told through the curves of a truly rare automobile.*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SILODROME | WIKIPEDIA | CLASSICTHROTTLESHOP | ]
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Also resembling a moray rippling through sea waters is the sinuous contour line, whilst shaping the elongated front section (an unmistakable look of the Corvette grille) to a far stronger, more accentuated curvature is the serpentine bonnet (which projects frontward) forming a contrast with the upraised cut-off tail.
Cool, sleek and supremely agile, of exceptional beauty and legerdemain like the sea creature from which it takes its name, the Moray is fitted with a powerful Chevrolet Corvette V8 engine, the longitude front-mounted six-liter, which reaches command of more than 400 horsepower, combined with a perfect balance ensured from the ground up by Michelin Pilot sport 335/30 ZR20 rear tires. *** [EKA [18052020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ITALDESIGN] | TOP SPEED | SUPERCARS.NET | MOBILE.CORVETTESTORY ]
