Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000: The Record That Never Was

Space Spoon - Discovering the stories behind unique and rare vehicles from the past often leads to some fascinating discoveries. One such vehicle is the Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000, a concept car that came to life in 1962. Built by Vignale, an Italian coachbuilder, this one-of-a-kind car was based on the Fiat 600D platform. The car's striking design immediately captures attention, with a shape that resembles a teardrop, or "goccia" in Italian, a form that was highly favored by designers during that era due to its aerodynamic efficiency.

1962 Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000 is built based of the Fiat 600D based design prototype with a massive 'fish-bowl' windscreen. (Picture from: Twitter)

In the 1950s and 60s, the teardrop design was at the forefront of aerodynamic studies. It was considered the most efficient shape for managing airflow, and this principle was applied by various automakers. Vignale had previously explored similar design ideas with the Abarth 750 Coupe Goccia in 1956, a collaboration with Giovanni Michelotti. The Sperimentale 1000 took these concepts even further, showcasing a distinct and futuristic appearance that was meant to push the boundaries of automotive design.

1962 Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000 sat on display at the Turin Auto Show 1962. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

The Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000 is not just another concept car; it is a masterpiece that combines art and engineering. Its most prominent feature is the massive "fish-bowl" windshield, which wraps around the front of the car, offering a panoramic view similar to modern-day sunroofs. The smooth, aerodynamic design continues with the faired-in headlights, which are tucked behind Plexiglas to reduce air resistance. The front bumpers, shaped like bullets, add to the car's sleek profile, while the sharply cut-off tail, a hallmark of Kammback design, ensures that the vehicle slices through the air with minimal drag.

1962 Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000's wraparound windscreen was absolutely enormous, while the glass roof very much similar the current's panoramic sunroofs. (Picture from: Drive-my.com)

At the rear, the car's design continues to impress with a series of cooling ducts that not only add to its visual appeal but also serve a functional purpose by providing air to the rear-mounted engine. The Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000 was equipped with a 1,000 cc engine, an upgrade from the original 767 cc engine, thanks to the efforts of the Turin-based ZM tuning company. This enhanced engine, combined with the car's lightweight and aerodynamic form, was intended to make it a record-breaking vehicle. Although Vignale claimed a Cd figure of just 0.25, which would have made it one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars of its time, there is no evidence to suggest that any record attempts were actually made.

Inside the cabin of 1962 Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000, there're two futuristic-themed seats with three gauges are mounted into a wooden instrument panel, housed in a binnacle extending forward to the base of the windshield. (Picture from: Drive-my.com)

Inside the cabin, the Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000 continues to impress with its futuristic design. The car features two seats with a unique, aircraft-inspired wraparound headrest on the passenger side. The wooden instrument panel is home to three gauges, housed in a binnacle that extends to the base of the windshield. The seats themselves are anatomically shaped, with unusual grip handle extensions, adding to the car's avant-garde aesthetic. Interestingly, the spare wheel is stored behind the seats, a practical yet stylish solution that adds to the car's overall uniqueness.

1962 Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000's wraparound windscreen was absolutely enormous, while the glass roof very much similar the current's panoramic sunroofs. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

The Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000 made its debut at the 1962 Turin Auto Show, where it immediately caught the attention of automotive enthusiasts and designers alike. Initially, the car featured conventional wheel arches, but by the time it was shown again at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1963, it had undergone slight modifications. The wheel arches were now faired-in and covered with spats, likely a result of further aerodynamic experiments conducted by Vignale.

This one-off concept car represents a remarkable chapter in automotive history, blending innovative design with engineering prowess. Its unique appearance, combined with the cutting-edge technology of its time, makes the Vignale Record Sperimentale 1000 a true icon. As we look back on this incredible vehicle, it serves as a reminder of the endless possibilities that arise when creativity and innovation come together in the world of automotive design.*** [EKA [09122021] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DRIVE-MY.COM | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CARSTYLING.RU | QUIRKYRIDES ]

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