The Murene: Heuliez’s Bold Vision for the 1970 Porsche 914-6

Vision Forged - There’s something inherently magnetic about the era of automotive experimentation in the late 1960s and early 1970s—a time when designers weren’t just shaping cars, but envisioning the future of mobility. Amidst this backdrop, the Porsche 914-6 took a bold leap beyond its factory lines thanks to the daring vision of French coachbuilder Heuliez. Known today as the Murene, this 1970 prototype is more than a car; it’s a fleeting glimpse of design ambition meeting technical precision, where the boundaries of factory production were gently nudged aside in favor of artistic expression.

The Porsche 914-6 'Murene' Prototype is more than a car; it’s a fleeting glimpse of design ambition meeting technical precision, where the boundaries of factory production were gently nudged aside in favor of artistic expression. (Picture from: DailyTurismo)

The story of Murene begins with Jacques Cooper, a former Raymond Loewy associate, whose curiosity and foresight sparked the project. Cooper persuaded Brissonneau et Lotz, a French engineering firm, to acquire an early 914-6 before its public debut to enter a Porsche design competition, and despite financial turbulence, he brokered a collaboration with independent designer Henri Heuliez. Within just two-and-a-half months, Heuliez had transformed Cooper’s wedge-inspired vision into a fully functioning prototype. Murene became the third and final wedge-inspired design study of that year, joining Eurostyle Torino’s concept by Albrecht von Goertz and Giorgetto Giugiaro’s ItalDesign Tapiro, highlighting the competitive creativity of Porsche’s experimental design era.

The Porsche 914-6 “Murene” Prototype features a thoughtfully crafted cabin blending tradition and bespoke detail, highlighted by a black and tan two-tone interior, leather-trimmed dashboard, and classic corduroy seats with natural patina. (Picture from: DailyTurismo)

Murene’s appearance is unmistakable and distinctly sculptural. The wedge-shaped body rises gracefully toward the rear, replacing the standard Karmann panels with bespoke metalwork. Cooper’s clever touch is evident in the widened B-pillars housing subtle gills, a reimagining of the engine grille, while details like fender-mounted mirrors, custom taillights, and unique badging elevate the design beyond mere functionality. Originally dressed in brown metallic over beige for its 1970 Paris and Geneva debuts, Murene later donned a vibrant metallic orange, reflecting both Heuliez’s personal taste and the daring spirit of automotive experimentation during that period. Five-lug 15” Mahle Gas Burner wheels paired with period-correct Vredestein Sprint Classic tires complete the car’s visually commanding stance.

The Porsche 914-6 “Murene” Prototype presents a distinctly sculptural look with a wedge-shaped body that rises toward the rear, replacing standard Karmann panels with bespoke metalwork. (Picture from: DailyTurismo)

Inside, Murene offers an equally thoughtful experience. The cabin balances tradition and bespoke craftsmanship, featuring a two-tone black and tan palette with leather-trimmed dashboards replacing vinyl. Classic 914 seats in black and corduroy retain their patina, harmonizing with the leather armrests and uniquely styled door panels. A triangular instrument cluster houses three analog Porsche dials—tachometer, speedometer, and temperature gauge—while functional elements such as a Becker AM radio and controls for lights and defrost root the interior firmly in its era, demonstrating that Murene was as much a driver’s car as it was a sculptural statement.

The Porsche 914-6 “Murene” Prototype was later refinished in vibrant metallic orange, paired with 15” Mahle Gas Burner wheels and Vredestein Sprint Classic tires for a striking period-correct stance. (Picture from: DailyTurismo)

Over the decades, Murene remained largely under Heuliez’s personal stewardship until the firm’s closure in 2012, marking more than four decades of careful preservation. Its legacy continued with appearances at the Porsche Museum in 2019, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the 914, and it stands today as a testament to an age when design audacity and engineering finesse converged. More than a prototype, Murene is a bridge between past ambition and present admiration—a rare artifact that encapsulates both the ingenuity of its creators and the timeless appeal of Porsche’s innovative spirit. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DAILYTURISMO ]

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Wild Mercedes-Inspired Custom: The 2011 C8 Custom One-Off Supercar

Rogue Craftsmanship - There’s a certain allure in machines built outside the rulebook—cars shaped not by committees, but by a single vision brought to life through persistence and creativity. In an era where performance cars feel increasingly refined and predictable, independent builds still stand out by daring to be different. Among them is a striking one-off creation often referred to as the 2011 Mercedes-Benz C8 Custom, a custom project inspired by the iconic Sauber C8, C9, and C11 Group C race cars, reimagined into something far more personal, unique, and unconventional.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz C8 Custom, a custom project inspired by the iconic Sauber C8, C9, and C11 Group C race cars, reimagined into something far more personal, unique, and unconventional. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

At a glance, the car reflects the influence of modern race machines associated with Mercedes-Benz, yet it quickly establishes its own identity. Its unusually wide stance gives it a dramatic and almost exaggerated presence, while the body combines angular elements—especially around the cabin—with smoother, flowing surfaces. A prominent hood scoop, reminiscent of drag racing designs, channels air toward the rear and adds a layer of visual aggression. Although it carries familiar badges, genuine Mercedes components are scarce, reinforcing that this is more of a creative homage than a factory-derived machine. 

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz C8 Custom expresses individuality over convention inside, featuring a flat-bottom steering wheel and bold alligator-pattern upholstery that adds a distinctive tactile character to the cabin. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

Beneath its bold exterior lies a mechanical setup that is just as unconventional. Power comes from a 5.7-liter small-block V8 sourced from Chevrolet, positioned in a mid-engine layout typically reserved for high-performance supercars. This choice stands out in an era where newer, lighter engines are widely available, suggesting a deliberate preference for raw, proven power. The engine is paired with a four-speed manual transmission from Volkswagen, a unit more commonly found in vans and off-road builds. While capable on paper, the combination introduces an element of unpredictability due to the V8’s substantial torque. 

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz C8 Custom houses an equally unconventional mechanical setup, powered by a mid-engine 5.7-liter Chevrolet V8. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

Inside, the car continues to express individuality over convention. A flat-bottom steering wheel hints at performance intent, while the use of alligator-pattern upholstery brings a bold and tactile character to the cabin. The pedal placement is notably unconventional, reflecting a design approach shaped by experimentation rather than standard ergonomics. Together, these elements create an interior that feels purposeful, yet unmistakably personal—more like a crafted environment than a mass-produced cockpit. 

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz C8 Custom features a prominent hood scoop inspired by drag racing that channels air rearward while enhancing its aggressive appearance. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

What ultimately defines the 2011 Mercedes-Benz C8 Custom is the dedication behind its creation. Building a car from the ground up demands not only technical skill but also resilience, from fabricating a drivetrain tunnel to route cooling and exhaust systems to refining a chassis that supports such an unusual configuration. The result is a machine that stands apart from anything on the road today—an expression of ambition, curiosity, and the willingness to take risks in pursuit of something truly original. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BARNFINDS | JALOPNIK ]

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1947 LeGrand Jordan Motorcycle: The First CHP Prototype with Twin Crank Innovation

Visionary Iron - On every highway, there’s always been a race between speed and safety. In California during the 1930s and 40s, that race was becoming more intense. The California Highway Patrol (CHP), still a relatively young institution at the time, was dealing with faster cars and longer stretches of road than ever before. Officers knew that to keep up, they needed motorcycles that could perform at the same level as the vehicles they were chasing. Out of this problem came one of the most curious experiments in motorcycle history: the 1947 LeGrand Jordan Motorcycle.

The 1947 Jordan Twin Crank Four (E) prototype as an example to be made in the motorcycle factory. (Picture from: KansasSebastian in Flickr)

LeGrand Lewis Jordan wasn’t just a rider; he was a lawman and a thinker. Having joined the CHP in 1930 after serving with the Los Angeles County Motor Patrol, he was among the officers who directly felt the limitations of standard-issue Harley-Davidsons 74 on patrol. He believed those bikes were too heavy and troublesome for the fast-changing demands of highway policing. Instead of accepting what the factories delivered, Jordan dared to imagine something entirely new—a motorcycle purpose-built for pursuit.

The 1947 Jordan Twin Crank Four (E) prototype while sat in display at The Quail Motorcycle Gathering 2013. (Picture from: DaveRoperRacing)

His creation was strikingly unconventional for the era. The prototype, known as the Jordan, carried a 1,000 cc Twin Crankshaft Four Shaft engine, an engineering choice designed to increase balance and stability with a reversed rotating system. That kind of innovation was rare in motorcycles of the time, especially in law enforcement fleets. Adding to its futuristic identity, Jordan designed a pressed-steel streamlined body that doubled as the frame, combining structural strength with aerodynamic flair. It looked and felt more like the product of an aircraft workshop than a traditional motorcycle garage.

The 1947 JordanTwin Crank Four (E) prototype adopts a 1,000 cc twin crankshaft four shaft engine. (Picture from: DaveRoperRacing)

Jordan’s ambition went far beyond building a single machine. He pitched his design to established manufacturers, hoping they would see its potential as the next generation of police motorcycles. But the reaction was not what he hoped for. The engineering was too complex, the production costs too high, and the design too far ahead of mainstream demand. Factories turned him down, leaving the Jordan as a lone prototype rather than a fleet of patrol-ready bikes. As a result, no CHP officer ever rode this motorcycle in active duty—the dream never reached the streets, remaining an ambitious vision frozen in time.

The 1947 Jordan Twin Crank Four (E) prototype sat in display at a permanent spot in the Otis Chandler Motorcycle Gallery at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. (Picture from: Mark6Mauno in Flickr)

Today, that singular motorcycle still exists, not as a forgotten experiment but as a celebrated rarity. The Jordan prototype has a permanent spot in the Otis Chandler Motorcycle Gallery at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, where it stands among a small collection of unique and historic machines. Visitors who encounter it don’t just see metal and mechanics; they see a story of an officer who tried to push motorcycle design into a new era.

Rearview of the 1947 Jordan Twin Crank Four (E) prototype. (Picture from: Modifikasi)

The 1947 LeGrand Jordan Motorcycle remains a fascinating reminder that sometimes the boldest ideas don’t make it to mass production—but that doesn’t mean they fade away. It continues to inspire curiosity, bridging the gap between necessity and imagination, and showing how one officer’s vision carved out a small but unforgettable place in motorcycle history. 

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA 16022015 [24042020]| FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LOS ANGELES TIMES | DAVEROPERRACING | MARK6MAUNO IN FLICKR | KANSAS SEBASTIAN IN FLICKR ]

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Here It Is: The First Batmobile That Started It All

Origin Machine - Long before sleek superhero blockbusters filled modern screens, the idea of a hero’s signature vehicle was already capturing imaginations. From futuristic gadgets to bold silhouettes, these machines became extensions of the characters themselves. Among them, one stands out not just for its look, but for its origin story—humble, creative, and surprisingly overlooked. Here it is the first Batmobile, a car that predates the famous TV version and carries a story as fascinating as the Dark Knight himself.

First official Batmobile built-in 1963 by Forrest Robinson. (Picture from: ComicBookResource)

This early Batmobile wasn’t born in a corporate studio or a Hollywood workshop, but in the hands of a young enthusiast named Forrest Robinson. At just 23 years old, he took a 1956 Oldsmobile 88 and transformed it into something straight out of comic book pages. Working alongside his friend Len Perham in the yard of his family home, Robinson infused the car with elements inspired by early Batman comics. One of its most striking features was a single, dramatic fin running along the center—an unusual design choice that gave the vehicle a distinct identity, echoing the bold and experimental spirit of mid-20th-century automotive styling.

A single large-fin in the middle as a characteristic of the early Batmobile.(Picture from: Merdeka)

The car itself was completed in 1963, quietly entering the world two years before the more widely recognized Batmobile—based on the Lincoln Futura concept—appeared on television. Unlike the polished, studio-backed versions that followed, Robinson’s creation had a raw charm. Its exterior carried a handcrafted aesthetic, blending comic-inspired imagination with the practical structure of a classic American car. While detailed records of the interior are scarce, it likely remained closer to the original Oldsmobile layout, making the contrast between its ordinary cabin and extraordinary exterior even more intriguing.

Rear side view of Forrest Robinson 1963 Batmobile. (Picture from: Merdeka)

At first, this Batmobile served a simple purpose: it was Robinson’s personal tribute to a character he admired. But as Batman’s popularity surged during the 1960s, the car caught wider attention. DC Comics eventually granted it an official license, turning it into a promotional vehicle. Repainted in the iconic black-and-red color scheme, it toured across the eastern United States and was introduced to the public as “Batman’s Batmobile,” even earning a mention in newspapers at the time. Despite its growing recognition, its moment in the spotlight was brief. When the TV version took over, Robinson decided to part with his creation, selling it for just $200—a figure that feels almost unreal today.

Time, however, has a way of restoring forgotten legends. Decades after being left to deteriorate like scrap, the car was rediscovered by Bobby Smith and later acquired by Toy Car Exchange LLC in 2013. Carefully restored, it finally received the appreciation it deserved, culminating in an auction in Dallas where it sold for $137,000 after opening at $90,000. What began as a passion project in a backyard had come full circle, evolving into a recognized piece of pop culture history. The first Batmobile may not be the most famous, but its story reflects something deeper—how creativity, fandom, and a bit of bold imagination can leave a lasting mark, even in the shadow of bigger, flashier icons. *** [EKA [03012015] [23042020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | COMIC BOOK RESOURCES | TELEGRAPH ]

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Moto Guzzi Galletto: The Italian Cockerel That Redefined 1950s Mobility

Hybrid Heritage - The story of modern urban mobility often circles back to Italy, a country where style and practicality have long moved hand in hand. In the years following World War II, as cities rebuilt and people sought affordable transportation, two-wheeled machines became symbols of freedom and recovery. Amid the familiar names that dominated the scooter boom, another creation quietly carved its own identity—one that blurred the line between scooter convenience and motorcycle performance. That machine was the Moto Guzzi Galletto.

The Moto Guzzi Galletto the first large-wheeled scooter of the 50s in rally for classic car and motorcycle festive during the Concorso d'Eleganza 2014 event at Lake Como, Italy. (Picture from: ModernVespa)

Italy’s scooter boom after World War II wasn’t shaped solely by big names like Piaggio or Innocenti; a wide range of manufacturers across the country also joined the movement, each contributing their own ideas to the growing culture of practical mobility. Among them, Ducati introduced the refined Ducati Brio, while Teodoro Carnielli & Co. developed the notably slim Carnielli Vittoria Type 65. At the same time, Moto Rumi offered the distinctive Rumi Formichino, and MV Agusta entered the scene with its 125 series. Together, these machines reflected a diverse and experimental spirit, showing that Italy’s scooter heritage was built by many creative hands rather than a single dominant force. 

The Moto Guzzi Galletto came to combine the advantages of a motorbike with those of a scooter has. (Picture from: ItalianVintageMotors)

The vision behind the Galletto came from Carlo Guzzi himself, who imagined a vehicle that could combine the comfort and accessibility of a scooter with the road stability of a motorcycle. The result was something refreshingly unconventional. Built on a tubular steel frame, the Galletto featured a leading-link front fork and a single-sided swingarm—engineering choices that emphasized durability and balance. Unlike typical scooters, both wheels were the same size, improving balance and handling, and even a spare wheel was cleverly integrated at the front. Visually, it carried a modest, almost utilitarian charm, yet beneath that simplicity lay thoughtful design aimed at real-world usability.

The 1952 Moto Guzzi Galletto came around with a 175cc air-cooled single cylinder engine and four speeds. (Picture from: CyberMotorcycle)

Performance was another area where the Galletto stood apart. Early versions introduced in 1950 used a 160cc engine paired with a three-speed manual transmission, offering riders more control than the average twist-and-go scooter. Over time, the model evolved: first to a 175cc engine with four speeds, and eventually to a 192cc air-cooled single-cylinder unit. This progression reflected not only technical refinement but also Moto Guzzi’s commitment to keeping the machine relevant. It was comfortable enough for longer journeys, economical to maintain, and stable on the road—qualities that made it more than just a city commuter.

By the time production ended after roughly 15 years, over 75,000 units had been sold—a respectable figure that secured its place in history. Today, the Galletto stands as a reminder of a more experimental era in design, when categories were fluid and innovation often came from bold hybrids. In a world now rediscovering multifunctional mobility, its concept feels surprisingly modern. The “little cockerel” may have crowed in the 1950s, but its voice still echoes among enthusiasts who appreciate machines that dare to be different.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA [20042020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ORLANDO MUSEUM | ITALIAN VINTAGE MOTORS | BIKE-URIOUS | COYS.CO.UK | MODERNVESPA | CYBERMOTORCYCLE ]

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Vivant 77: 1960s Iconic Hot-Rod Roadster

Eccentric Elegance - Sometimes, the automotive world surprises us with creations that defy norms, challenge conventions, and become timeless pieces of art. The intersection of bold vision, unorthodox designs, and innovative engineering often gives birth to vehicles that leave an indelible mark, even if they never reach mass production. Among such rare gems is a car that embodies eccentricity and exclusivity, a masterpiece that has stood the test of time—Herb Adams' Vivant 77.

The 1965 Vivant 77, a unique hot-rod style roadster of the 1960s built based on the Herb Adams' design and bodied by 'The Beatles of Troy, Michigan.' (Picture from: DesignBoom)

This car’s journey began in 1965 when Herb Adams, a passionate development engineer at Pontiac and a key figure in the muscle car revolution within General Motors, decided to bring his vision to life. Driven by a desire to blend style with performance, he set out to create a hot-rod that would double as a stunning design statement. Adams' ambition was not limited to crafting a striking aesthetic; he envisioned the Vivant 77 as a competitor in both stylistic appeal and racing performance.

The 1965 Vivant 77, a unique hot-rod style roadster of the 1960s drove to the Concorso d'Eleganza 2019 at Lake Como, Italy. (Picture from: DesignBoom)

The Vivant 77’s design carried an air of rebellion, drawing inspiration from the avant-garde Alfa Romeo BAT series, with sleek, dramatic lines that hinted at speed and sophistication. At first glance, it also evoked comparisons with another icon of its time, the 1962 Covington el Tiburon. The Tiburon, with its sharp, futuristic angles and streamlined body, stood as a symbol of innovation. However, where the Tiburon leaned into cutting-edge minimalism, the Vivant 77 embraced muscular power and flamboyant curves, making it a worthy rival not just in design but in performance ambition.

The steering wheel and dashboard view of the 1965 Vivant 77, a unique hot-rod style roadster of the 1960s. (Picture from: Pikabu.ru)

To construct the vehicle, Adams began by designing the body and fabricating a sturdy spaceframe. At its heart was a rare and powerful 370 cubic-inch Pontiac V8 engine from 1958, a choice that underscored the car's intent to dominate the drag strip. Every component was sourced with meticulous care, culminating in a creation unlike anything else on the road.

The 1965 Vivant 77 featured NOS 'Twin Blue' gauges, including speedo, tach, and center-console meters for oil, temp, amps, and fuel, matching its color scheme. (Picture from: JalopyJournal)

The vehicle's bodywork was brought to life by three highly skilled English panel beaters—Harry Kennedy, Jack Henser, and John Glover—who were affectionately known in the U.S. drag racing community as "The Beatles of Troy, Michigan." Their craftsmanship ensured that the Vivant 77's aluminum body was as visually striking as it was aerodynamically efficient. When the car made its debut at the 1966 Detroit Auto-Rama, it turned heads and captured imaginations, standing as a testament to Adams' creativity and determination.

The 1965 Vivant 77, a unique hot-rod style roadster of the 1960s uses the rare 370 ci Pontiac V8 engine. (Picture from: DesignBoom)

However, as often happens with visionary projects, the Vivant 77's moment in the spotlight was fleeting. Once the Auto-Rama concluded, the car faded from public view and was seemingly forgotten. Decades passed before it resurfaced, rediscovered in 2009, and underwent a meticulous restoration to bring it back to its original glory. Every detail, from its unique design to its powerful engine, was lovingly preserved, ensuring that the Vivant 77 remained a true reflection of its creator’s vision.

The 1965 Vivant 77, a unique hot-rod style roadster of the 1960s was displayed for the first time in the 1966 Detroit Auto-Rama even. (Picture from: DesignBoom)

The car's rebirth culminated in its appearance at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza in 2019, held at the stunning Villa d'Este on the shores of Lake Como, Italy. Among an elite gathering of 50 of the world's rarest and most exquisite automobiles and motorcycles, the Vivant 77 basked in the admiration of enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its journey from obscurity to one of the most revered automotive events in the world speaks to its enduring allure and the timeless nature of its design.

The story of the Vivant 77 is more than just a tale of a unique car; it is a celebration of ambition, artistry, and perseverance. Its ability to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with contemporaries like the Covington el Tiburon reflects a golden age of automotive innovation where boundaries were pushed, and rules were rewritten. Herb Adams’ dream car may not have become a household name, but its legacy endures as a symbol of what is possible when creativity and determination meet. *** [EKA [19042020] [10042026] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DESIGNBOOM | JALOPY JOURNAL ]

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