Beautiful ONES - The 1960s was an era defined by miniskirts, Jimi Hendrix, and the summer of love. It was a time when the world emerged from post-war austerity, and a wave of optimism swept across society.
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| James Bond’s (in pictured Sean Connery) Aston Martin DB5 sells for $6.4 million at Pebble Beach of 2019. (Picture from: CNBC) |
This newfound spirit of creativity touched everything, from music and fashion to politics. It was an era that also left an indelible mark on the automobile industry, giving rise to some of the most beautiful and iconic cars in history. In this article, we'll explore my top 5 favorites from that era.5. Porsche 911
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| 1963 Porsche 911. (Picture from: Wkipedia) |
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| 1969 Porsche 911. (Picture from: Wkipedia) |
With its iconic rear slope and unmistakable headlights, the Porsche 911 stands as one of the greatest car designs of the century. Its enduring appeal and enduring production are a testament to the timelessness of its design. The 911 remains a symbol of Porsche's commitment to automotive excellence.
4. Aston Martin DB5
The Aston Martin DB5, named after Aston Martin's head, David Brown, became a true automotive celebrity in the 1960s. It gained worldwide fame through its appearances in the James Bond films "Goldfinger" and "Thunderball." Before the era of Knight Rider and Transformers, the DB5 was the epitome of automotive stardom.
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| 1963 Ashton Martin DB5 'James Bond.' (Picture from: JerryGarret) |
This classic British car, introduced in 1963, was equipped with a 3,700 cc engine. It even came with a built-in fire extinguisher, showcasing its advanced features for its time. The DB5 featured a 4-liter double overhead engine producing 282 bhp, with a top speed of 142 mph and the ability to reach 60 mph in just 7.1 seconds. Aston Martin also offered a high-performance Vantage version of the DB5 with an impressive power output of 325 bhp.
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| The "gold standard" in Bond Aston Martins. (Picture from: JerryGarret) |
Early models of the DB5 offered a choice between a four-speed gearbox and optional three-speed automatic or five-speed ZF manual units. Aston Martin subsequently redesigned the DB series several times, with various incarnations appearing in numerous films. However, the DB5 remains a favorite among enthusiasts, thanks in no small part to its association with James Bond.
3. 1969 Jaguar XKE
The Jaguar E-Type, also known as the Jaguar XK-E, is a British sports car that graced the roads from 1961 to 1974. This iconic vehicle combined stunning aesthetics, high performance, and competitive pricing, establishing itself as a symbol of 1960s motoring. Over 70,000 E-Types were sold during its production run.
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| 1969 Jaguar XK-E II E. (Picture from: SunsetClassics) |
Even today, the Jaguar XK-E retains its timeless beauty, a testament to the design genius of aerodynamics engineer Malcolm Sayer. Equipped with all-wheel independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, and a triple-carbureted DOHC motor, the XK-E set new standards for sports cars of its time. The majority of these cars found their way to America, where they enjoyed immense popularity.
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| 1966 Jaguar E-Type 4.2. (Picture from: TheDrive) |
The Series-2 models, recognizable by their larger grille openings and repositioned front signal lamps, saw upgrades such as improved brakes and standard radial tires. Interior changes included replacing dash-mounted toggle switches with "safer" rockers. Options like air conditioning and power steering were available. Enzo Ferrari himself declared the E-Type "the most beautiful car ever made."
2. Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso
In 1962, at the Paris Motor Show, Ferrari unveiled the ultimate model in the 250 GT series: the Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso. This exquisite vehicle was produced between 1962 and 1964, with just 350 units manufactured. Designed by Pininfarina and built by Scaglietti in Modena, Italy, this car was the successor to the 250 GT Coupe. |
| Steve McQueen’s Ferrari 250 GT. (Picture from: http://www.sybarites.com/) |
One of the most famous owners of the Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso was the legendary actor Steve McQueen. The car's design retained the short wheelbase of its predecessors but featured a revised chassis with the engine positioned slightly further forward, providing more interior space for occupants.
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| Inside of the Ferrari 250 GT Lusso looks so fancy covered by genuine leather and more spacious than the standard version of the 250 GT. (Picture from: Supercars) |
Under the hood, the 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso housed an engine with a bore and stroke of 73mm x 58.8mm, producing 250bhp at 7,500 rpm and boasting a compression ratio of 9.2:1. The engine was paired with a 4-speed + reverse all-synchromesh gearbox, with a propeller shaft transmitting power to the rigid rear axle. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 7 seconds, with a top speed of 150 mph.
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| The Ferrari 250 GT Lusso is powered by a V12 engine coupled with triple Weber twin-choke carburetor, so it capable of producing power up to 240 to 250 horse power. (Picture from: Supercars) |
The exterior of the 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso featured a plain mesh on the hood intake and large circular combination rear/turn/reflector light units on each side of the recessed tail panel. Only 350 of these luxurious roadsters were ever produced, making it a rare and coveted gem among collectors. In 2007, one of these cars, previously owned by Steve McQueen, was auctioned for an astonishing $2.3 million.
1. Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
The Chevrolet Corvette, also known as the Corvette Stingray, represents the pinnacle of American sports cars in the 1960s. Produced by General Motors from 1963 to 1967, the '63 Corvette marked a significant evolution from its predecessors. It retained the core concept of a two-seat, fiberglass-bodied sports car with power, performance, and style at its core. |
| 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. (Picture from: AutoTribute) |
However, the 1963 Corvette brought major improvements, including an entirely new frame with all-wheel independent suspension. Its sleek, aerodynamic design featured pop-up headlights and a distinctive coupe body with a unique two-piece rear window. This model was a culmination of GM's vision for a high-performance sports car.
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| 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. (Picture from: Classic-Car-History) |
The lineage of the 1963 Stingray can be traced back to two separate GM projects: the Q-Corvette and the XP-87 Sting Ray racing car. The Q-Corvette, initiated in 1957, envisioned a smaller, more advanced Corvette with coupe-only styling. It boasted features like a rear transaxle, independent rear suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes, with the rear brakes mounted inboard. The exterior design was striking, with peaked fenders, a long nose, and a short, bobbed tail.Among the final generation of elegant Corvettes, the '63 Stingray stands out with its signature split rear window (later removed for safety reasons). It is undeniably one of the most distinctive and visually captivating vintage cars from the era. Its beauty speaks for itself, requiring minimal explanation. Do you agree?
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| 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray interior drivers side. (Picture from: Classic-Car-History) |
The 1960s brought us an array of iconic cars that continue to capture the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors today. These five vehicles—Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso, Jaguar XK-E, Aston Martin DB5, and Porsche 911—are shining examples of automotive design excellence during that groovy era. Each car carries its own unique charm and historical significance, making them timeless classics that still turn heads on the road.
From the sleek and aerodynamic lines of the Jaguar XK-E to the Hollywood glamour of the Aston Martin DB5, these cars are more than just machines; they are symbols of an era marked by creativity and innovation. The 1960s may have come and gone, but the beauty and allure of these automobiles remain, reminding us of a time when automotive design reached new heights.
As we look back at these five remarkable vehicles, it's clear that their impact on automotive history is indelible. Whether you're a fan of American muscle, Italian elegance, British sophistication, or German engineering, there's something for everyone in this selection. So, the next time you see one of these beauties cruising down the road, take a moment to appreciate the timeless style and craftsmanship that defined the 1960s automotive landscape. These cars are not just relics of the past; they are living legends that continue to inspire and captivate us today. (Jump to Previous-Part.) *** [EKA [01032013] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | JERRYGARRET | SUNSETCLASSICS || THEDRIVE | CNBC | SUPERCARS | MOTORCARSTUDIO | AUTOTRIBUTE | CLASSIC-CAR-HISTORY | DAILYTOP10]
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