The classic cars made in the 1960s have many unusual shapes and sometimes are also made and designed by manufacturers or individuals whose names may sound strange to us today. There is a certain indescribable thrill associated with the resurrection of a long lost automobile.
1966 Bosley Mark II Interstate built by Richard Bosley for over nine years in the process. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2xE0iXJ)
One of them is a car named Bosley Mark II Interstate, which was completed in 1966 by Richard Bosley, a horticulturist from Ohio, who is also a sports car enthusiast with a passion for automotive design. Although in fact, he did not have formal automotive training. And in the early 1950s, he decided to build his dream car.
1966 Bosley Mark II Interstate made its debut in Sports Cars in Review in 1967 at the Henry Ford Museum. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2xDaDmI)
After finishing building the first prototype of his car in 1953 known as the Bosley Mark I, while the chassis and drivetrain were rather conventional, the coupe body made of fiberglass and by the hand was truly shocking. And the international press immediately paid attention and Mark I was the subject of many articles in the United States and abroad at the time.
The steering wheel and dashboard view of 1966 Bosley Mark II Interstate. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2xDaDmI)
After that, he decided to make his second car which the process he was assisted by his wife, Carol and had spent time of nine years. There were over 5,500 hours of labor involved in the hundreds of handcrafted parts as well as items handed over to Reutter of Germany (such as seats and grilles) then Sibano-Bisano of Italy (for side windows and vents).
1966 Bosley Mark II Interstate has many revolutionary features at the time (such as high stoplights, retractable driving lights, top dashboard display and seats with side backrests and passenger headrests). (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2xDaDmI)
The car was then known as the Bosley Mark II Interstate made its debut in Sports Cars in Review in 1967 at the Henry Ford Museum by highlighting many of its revolutionary features (high stoplights, retractable driving lights, top dashboard display and seats with side backrests and passenger headrests).
1966 Bosley Mark II Interstate is equipped with 345 horsepower, Pontiac V-8 Tri-power engine mated with the Corvette manual transmission. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2xDaDmI)
Despite having the appearance of 'Dream Car', this car was built to drive on the new highway system so it was named 'Interstate'. The fiberglass monocoque body is built on its Corvette chassis, and the car is equipped with 345 horsepower, Pontiac V-8 Tri-power engine mated with the Corvette manual transmission. The car had appeared as the cover story in several world's automotive magazines.
1966 Bosley Mark II Interstate's last appearance was at the 2018 Concours d'Elegance in Hershey Pennsylvania. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2xDaDmI)
Bosley kept the car until the late 1980s. The second owner let the car break down. It was rescued in 2000 and was acquired by the current owner in 2015. A full forensic restoration was completed and completed in the summer of 2017.
And for the last time, the car appeared in public was at the 2018 Concours d'Elegance in Hershey Pennsylvania, which we able to see on the video above. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CONCEPTCARZ | VINTAGE RACE CAR | AMERICAN COACHBUILDER] Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
The Ford Ranger that we know today is a large middle-to-upper class pick-up that is thick with a masculine impression. However, in the past, the vehicle model was contrary to the concept version that had appeared in the 1960s despite has the same name.
Here's the 1966 Ford Ranger II Concept was an ultra-modern pickup truck with a custom-designed passenger compartment. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2URFqoa)
The concept car designer was Syd Mead, who originally wanted to build a Ford convertible pick-up, similar in design to the modern Chevrolet SSR. The concept car was built in 1966 and given the name Ford Ranger II.
The 1966 Ford Ranger II Concept as in a four-passenger pickup has fully operational with A/C, radio and a fully operational top conversion. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3byNroA)
This concept truck appeared with a futuristic look created with a streamlined windshield, high-intensity headlights rectangular-designed and Clearwater Aqua finish. "This was designed to mount onto a '63 Ford station wagon frame. It was fully operational with A/C, radio and a fully operational top conversion," said Syd at the time.
According to Ford, the concept car was an ultra-modern pickup truck with a custom-designed passenger compartment. Seen as a two-seater vehicle, the Ranger II converts into a four-passenger pickup at the flick of a finger.
And this the 1966 Ford Ranger II Concept has the new innovations in the time include aircraft-type canopy doors that operate hydraulically at the trun of a key and a forward-hinged hood that opens hydraulically by a switch on the master control. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3dH5nPB)
The rear portion of the cab moves 18-inches into the bed of the truck while a roof section moves up into position and two additional bucket seats fall into place. The Ranger II’s ultra-streamlined windshield is made of specially tempered plastic-type glass. It also features high-intensity headlights of rectangular design, extruded aluminum grille and walnut flooring in the cargo bed.
As a two-passenger pickup, the truck bed is 6 ft wide and 8 ft long (the standard F-250 bed size). The cargo bed has walnut flooring, courtesy lights, aluminum loading rails, vinyl-covered side panels, and padded wheel housing.
1966 Ford Ranger II Concept as in a two-passenger pickup designed by Syd Meadand featured 6 ft wide and 8 ft long (the standard F-250 bed size). (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3bBHK9r)
Its functional interior features contoured bucket seats, and a host of options including power steering, tilt-away steering wheel, SelectShift Cruise-O-Matic transmission, AM/FM radio and a SelectAire air-conditioner.
The Ranger II is 57 inches high, 18 feet long, 84 inches wide and has a 120-inch wheelbase. Power for the special show vehicle is provided by a 390 cubic-inch V-8 with three carburetors. By the way, Syd's design is magical considering that he was the artist behind several Hollywood futuristic movies, such as Blade Runner, Aliens, Tron, and others. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DESIGNYOUTRUST]
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Although the Geneva Motor Show 2020 was canceled, BMW still debuted its newest concept car, which has entered the pre-production stage, which will begin in 2021, and also marks the debut of the fifth-generation eDrive powertrain which also be used by BMW iNext and iX3 models.
BMW Concept i4 previews what will become the production-spec i4 in 2021. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3bCdtHC)
For the electric motors, the BMW Concept i4 uses the electric motor that can generate a power of 530 horsepower which is connected with a capacity of 80 kWh battery, which able to take the car to run up to 600 km for a single charged.
BMW Concept i4 previews big grille, bigger power, and a 270-Mile range. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3bCdtHC)
While the exterior design of the BMW Concept i4 is claimed to be quite representative of the production models that will be available next year, one of which is the grille design that looks similar to the grille of the latest BMW 4 Series rendering image shown last year.
BMW Concept i4 interior is dominated by white, gold-bronze and gave looks the concept car it should be. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3bCdtHC)
Just like the BMW iX3 launched previously, the BMW Concept i4 uses the rims with a special design and made of lightweight materials to support the car's aerodynamics. Meanwhile, at the rear there is a lamp with an L-shaped design and a pair of vertical air holes which further emphasizes the car's sporty design, there is also a dual rear diffuser installed on where's the exhausts usually had placed.
BMW Concept i4 uses the rims with a special design and made of lightweight materials to support the car's aerodynamics. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/39uqam6)
The interior is dominated by white, gold-bronze and gave looks the concept car it should be, but also can give a leak of how the interior of the BMW i4 production version. Meanwhile, the most striking thing is the curved screen design that displays the instrument cluster and infotainment, where's the luxurious impression presented by the use of crystal material on the iDrive controller and seat memory button.
BMW also prepares IconicSounds Electric features that can create artificial sounds for BMW electric cars, including the i4. It created by the help of the world's famous composer Hans Zimmer, the system will create different sounds based on the selected driving mode, including Core, Sport, and Efficient. The plans, starting to be marketed next year. And reportedly, the BMW i4 will be built at BMW's main plant in Munich with an additional investment of €200 million (equivalent to Rp.3.1 trillion). *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BMW.CO.UK | MOTOR1]
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The heyday of the jet in the 1950s had a quite dramatic effect on Americans including the automotive designers at the time. Because the Jet has become a symbol of the new modern age which is attached to speed, aerodynamic shape, and the use of magical materials and the application of sophisticated techniques.
At that time, everything ranging from clothing, houses, workplaces, and cities all reflected this new modern concept and approach, but perhaps there was no clearer influence than that seen in the automotive industry.
1958 Plymouth Tornado Concept after has been completed its restoration by Moses Lunden. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UiJbDH)
One of the cars that are very thick inspired and reflects the jet era is the Plymouth Tornado, which is a concept car built based on the frame of the 1958 Plymouth Fury. This car was displayed in 1958 auto shows across the US. along with the Army’s Redstone missile produced by Chrysler Corporation, which emphasized the jet age car’s design.
And the Plymouth Tornado was originally painted on grey and has a very distinctive feature that is the large tail wings, rocket-likened exhaust, and split fin at the rear end. The chrome details are also pretty impressive, but we’re not sure about those chrome surrounds on the doors.
A unique and futuristic bowtie-shaped steering wheel of 1958 Plymouth Tornado concept car. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UiJbDH)
Inside the cabin, the car has a futuristic bowtie-shaped steering wheel that might prove difficult in tight turns. As mentioned earlier, this car built based on the Plymouth Fury and used a 318-inch v8 engine that capable of spraying power up to 290 horsepower, as well as applying the four-wheeled drum brakes.
Interior view of 1958 Plymouth Tornado concept car.(Picture from: https://bit.ly/2JgsJh3)
In 1964, the Plymouth Tornado took second place for Radical Custom Design at the Sabers' Auto Show in Denver and was featured in Car Craft Magazine. Over the next decade, little was known about its history until 1974 when a Utah-based sports figure bought the Plymouth Tornado, plated it and drove it for the next two years.
1958 Plymouth Tornado concept car used a 318-inch v8 engine able to spew power of 290 hp. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2JgsJh3)
Following his death and the passing of his wife, the vehicle was forgotten and left outside in the fields for the next 28 years at the late owner’s home. Eventually, a neighbor nearby became aware of this unique car and, suspecting its historical interests, began contacting collectors and potential buyers. In 2004, Tornadoes were sold to Hollywood veteran directors and car collector enthusiasts.
1958 Plymouth Tornado Concept has a unique large tail pin feature at the rear end. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UiJbDH)
After years of being left to rot on the barn, and finally, this concept car was resold by the Hollywood director. And its new owner and car aficionado were found who was willing to tackle the restoration. It was a difficult task of returning the Plymouth Tornado to its former show glory was assigned to Moses Lunden.
1958 Plymouth Tornado Concept has the split rear end bodyworks like jet exhaust. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2JgsJh3)
As is well known, he is a Chrysler-Plymouth authority who had authored more than 20 books on the company and its many collectible models, set out to complete a ground-up, frame-off restoration without the aftermarket parts used.
1958 Plymouth Tornado Concept left to rot on the barn before restored to its heyday condition. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2WIOQ7P)
Since every nut and bolt used in the restoration was original equipment, there would naturally be no compromises when it came to the drivetrain. The car's engine was completely rebuilt along with the period-perfect push-button automatic transmission.
And now, We have no word on where the car is now but we hope someone will come forward and explain its true origin. Or if you wanna see the beauty Plymouth Belmont model. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DESIGNYOUTRUST | CARZHUNT | 95OCTANE]
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One of the world's most important pre-war racing cars is the BMW 328 Mille Miglia 'Buegelfalte' which was made in 1937. This car is the only special roadster ever made at the BMW factory in Munich, and has numerous race wins to its credit (including a Mille Miglia class win) which later became an inspiration-sourced for almost all of post-war sports cars.
As is well known, BMW has been actively involved in the car racing activities in the pre-war periods and has enjoyed much significant success with the 328 model which is sophisticated and high-performance.
BMW 328 Mille Miglia 'Buegelfalte' was produced in 1937. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UFYXaM)
The race car was built on a chassis numbered of 85032 and was produced in May 1937 as a standard bodied car designed by the Experimental Department of Rudolf Schleicher at BMW. This car was noted to have participated in the 1937 Le Mans racing competition drove by the famous British racing driver of the time, A.F.P. Fane, as well as the 1937 Tourist Cup which was driven by H.G. Dobbs.
Front three-quarter of 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia 'Buegelfalte.' (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UFYXaM)
And in the fall of 1939, the racing car was dismantled at the BMW's racing division at Milbertshofen before it was extensively reengineered and used as a basis for leaner bodywork in preparation for the 1940 racing season and Mille Miglia in particular. For this reason, BMW makes this aerodynamic coupe and lightweight open roadster.
Extensive modifications done to the car include lowering the engine and driveline in the chassis to reduce the front area of the body and lower the center of gravity to improve handling. The design was done by Wilhelm Kaiser, a very experienced member of BMW's new design department, led by stylist chief Wilhelm Meyerhuber. Then its 1: 10 scale model was tested in the pioneering aerodynamic wind tunnel of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wunibald Kamm, with a long, tapered tail that took advantage of the lowered engine and profile.
Top view of 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia 'Buegelfalte' interior. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UFYXaM)
Magnesium material is even used for the car's braking system, which consists of Alfin drum brakes with a Duplex system for the front and rear wheels. The 17-inch steel disc wheel has a lightweight metal ring, and the tires are specially made for Mille Miglia by Continental, so the car can travel at long distances without having to change the tires.
With true racing style, the rear leaf spring suspension can be adjusted, controlled with additional stabilizing bars. Even the hub is a super-lightweight special edition unit, like most hardware, aluminum nuts, screw heads and the like. After all modifications at Milbertshofen are finished, the BMW Bügelfalte is then tested on a track not far from BMW's headquarters in Munich.
Left side view of 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia 'Buegelfalte.' (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UFYXaM)
For 2 roadsters and other streamlined coupes whose bodywork is entrusted to Touring in Milan, which had the capacity to finish before the 1940 Mille Miglia. It should be noted that these two "second series" roadsters have complete mechanics and tubular substructure completed in Munich before the bodywork is finished in Milan. Because of this, they don't have the typical "pants fold" fender.
During the war, the roadster Bügelfalte was given to Albert Speer, Reichsminister for Bewaffnung und Munition (Armaments and Munitions). Remarkably, it survived five years of world war and was seized by Russia for repair. The Russians awarded it to Artiom Ivanovich Mikoyan, head of the Mikoyan i Gurevich Design Bureau, who was none other than the creator of the famous MiG fighter jets.
Rear three-quarter of 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia 'Buegelfalte.' (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2UFYXaM)
Mikoyan let his son use it, but the boy’s escapades eventually drained his father's patience, so in 1972 he exchanged the Bügelfalte with Guido Adamson of Riga, Latvia, for a Lada car that was not too inclined to arouse a young man's fantasy while driving it.
With the collapse of "Iron Curtain," Adamson drove the Bügelfalte to Munich and entrusted it to BMW's care, and was seen using it occasionally, especially on the 1991 Mille Miglia Storica where it was displayed on a BMW poster commemorating the event.
In 2001, this car was acquired from Adamson and, for the last decade before appearing at an auction event in Monaco, was serviced and maintained by the BMW's specialists at the Tom Fischer Classic & Race Car Service. Working together with Georg Thiele. a BMW 328 engine specialist and with utmost attention to originality, the complete mechanicals, including engine, front and rear axle and brake system, have been rebuilt.
Lastly, the legendary racing car was seen at an auction event on May 1, 2010, at the Grimaldi Forum, Monaco. Yes, the unique BMW 328 Buegelfalte Roadster signature collector car shown off at the RM Auction's event and was reportedly sold post-bid for more than $ 5.6 million. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BMW BLOG]
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One of them is a car named Bosley Mark II Interstate, which was completed in 1966 by Richard Bosley, a horticulturist from Ohio, who is also a sports car enthusiast with a passion for automotive design. Although in fact, he did not have formal automotive training. And in the early 1950s, he decided to build his dream car.
