Are Old Cars Really a Good Choice for Young Drivers?

Safety First - There’s a certain charm to vintage cars that captivates young people. These vehicles, often associated with a sense of nostalgia and individuality, are admired for their classic designs and the uniqueness they bring to the road. In particular, many drivers in their 20s find old cars appealing because they stand out in a crowd. However, beneath their aesthetic appeal lies a question worth exploring: Are old cars truly suitable for young people?

(This image is for illustration purposes) Are old cars really a good choice for young drivers? (Picture from: iStockPhoto)

Research suggests that the allure of old cars may come at a price. A study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in 2014 revealed concerning statistics about the safety of vintage cars for teenage drivers. According to the study, nearly half of the teenage drivers aged 15 to 17 who died in car crashes between 2008 and 2012 were behind the wheel of cars at least 11 years old. These findings highlight a critical issue—older vehicles often lack modern safety features that can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

One major factor contributing to the problem is the absence of advanced safety technologies in older cars. Features such as electronic stability control, airbags, and collision-avoidance systems are commonplace in modern vehicles but were either absent or less effective in cars manufactured over a decade ago. This gap in safety features becomes even more alarming when paired with the fact that many young drivers are unaware of these technologies or their importance. In fact, the IIHS study found that only a small fraction of teenage drivers, just 3%, were familiar with electronic stability control.

Beyond safety concerns, the preference for older cars among young people is often driven by financial considerations. For many teenagers and their families, affordability is a significant factor when choosing a vehicle. New cars, while equipped with the latest safety features, often come with a price tag that is out of reach for most young drivers. As a result, older cars become a more practical option, despite their potential safety shortcomings.

(This image is for illustration purposes) A variety of vintage and classic cars are displayed at the Newport Car Museum in Portsmouth. (Picture from: Liputan6)

This issue is not exclusive to the United States. Similar findings were reported in the United Kingdom. Research conducted by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) in 2011 showed that half of the accidents resulting in death or serious injury to young drivers involved vehicles more than a decade old. These parallels across different regions underscore a universal challenge: balancing affordability and safety for young drivers.

 

While the data paints a concerning picture, the situation also highlights the need for better education and awareness about vehicle safety. Young drivers and their families can benefit from understanding the risks associated with older vehicles and prioritizing safety features when selecting a car. Governments, manufacturers, and insurance companies also have a role to play in making safer vehicles more accessible to young drivers through subsidies, incentives, or affordable financing options.

Ultimately, the choice between a vintage car and a newer model goes beyond aesthetics or budget. It’s a decision that can have profound implications for the safety and well-being of young drivers. For those enamored by the charm of old cars, it’s worth considering whether the trade-offs in safety are worth the risk. By prioritizing education, accessibility, and awareness, we can help young drivers make informed choices that align with both their aspirations and their safety.

 

In the end, every journey matters. Whether it’s the thrill of owning a classic car or the practicality of a safer, newer vehicle, what truly stands out is the value of protecting lives. For young drivers, the road ahead is full of possibilities—and making wise choices today can pave the way for countless safe and fulfilling adventures tomorrow. *** [EKA | FROM VRIOUS SOURCES | LIPUTAN6 ]

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Toyota Proto: The 1950s Unsung Sports Car Prototype

Iconic Origins - When thinking of sports cars, it's easy to picture sleek, futuristic designs with impressive power under the hood. However, innovation in the automotive world didn't just happen overnight. In fact, Toyota, a brand now recognized globally for its advancements, was already paving the way for modern sports cars as far back as the 1950s. One particular gem that rarely gets the spotlight is the Toyota Proto from 1957, a prototype that symbolized a turning point in Toyota's approach to car design.

The 1957 Toyota Proto Concept car inspired by the wave of American Dream Cars, it shared the bold vision of the future that was common in concept cars from the time, powered by a 697 cc drivetrain. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

At a glance, the 1957 Toyota Proto might seem like a typical product of its era, but a closer look reveals its unique appeal. Inspired by the wave of American Dream Cars, it shared the bold vision of the future that was common in concept cars from the time. However, unlike its American counterparts, this Japanese creation had a smaller, more compact design. Its body was made from fiberglass, a material that was quite revolutionary at the time, signaling Toyota's interest in experimenting with both form and function.

The exterior design of the Toyota Proto captured the essence of 1950s styling with its fluid, rounded lines and circular headlights. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

One of the most striking features of the Toyota Proto was its canopy design. Rather than having a conventional door system, the Proto’s roof opened in a fascinating way, moving towards the rear like a cover being lifted. This "double-bubble" roof was not only an aesthetic choice but also a functional innovation, providing a futuristic flair that would later influence the design of the Toyota Publica Sports.

Rather than having a conventional door system, the Toyota Proto’s roof opened in a fascinating way, moving towards the rear like a cover being lifted. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

The exterior design of the Toyota Proto captured the essence of 1950s styling with its fluid, rounded lines and circular headlights. These design elements, combined with the dual-tone paintwork—featuring a white body with red accents on the wheels, grille, and roof—gave the car a futuristic, yet classic feel. It was a car that looked ahead to the future while still grounding itself in the design trends of its time.

A clay model of the 1957 Toyota Proto concept car clearly showcases its futuristic curves, highlighted by a distinctive fin design at the rear. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

Inside, the Proto’s compact two-seater cabin was simple yet stylish, designed to complement the car's sleek outer appearance. Although not much is known about the interior's finer details, it’s clear that the design was minimalistic, a trend that would continue in Toyota’s future models. Comfort was not sacrificed, though the Proto’s focus remained firmly on showcasing innovative design and engineering.

The Toyota Proto concept car features dual-tone paintwork, showcasing a white body with red accents on the wheels, grille, and roof, giving it a futuristic yet classic feel. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

Powering the Toyota Proto was a 697 cc engine, which, by modern standards, might seem small. However, for the 1950s, this engine provided enough power to showcase the car’s potential without compromising on its lightweight design. Though not built for speed or performance like the supercars of later decades, the Proto’s engine was a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess at the time, proving that they could create efficient and forward-thinking vehicles.

The double-curved bubbletop of the Toyota Proto concept car evokes a design reminiscent of the signature style seen in Italian coachbuilder Zagato. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

Unfortunately, the Toyota Proto was never mass-produced, and the world never saw this unique vehicle on the roads. Yet, despite its brief appearance as a concept, it left a lasting impact on Toyota's design philosophy. The ideas and features seen in the Proto would go on to influence future models, such as the legendary Toyota 2000GT, the Celica and the Supra, all of which embraced the blend of innovation and style that the Proto first introduced. Since there isn’t a video specifically about this car, here’s a video featuring a collection of classic models made by Toyota.

The 1957 Toyota Proto may be a forgotten chapter in automotive history, but it was a significant one. This car symbolized Toyota's ambition to push the boundaries of design and technology long before it became a dominant force in the automotive world. Today, as we look back at concept cars like the Proto, it’s clear that Toyota's journey to innovation started long before it reached the pinnacle of success. The Proto remains a fascinating glimpse into what could have been, a reflection of an era that dreamt big and laid the foundation for future automotive milestones. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | QUIRKYRIDES | CARSTYLING.RU | HABJAPANLTD | TECHEBLOG | STORY-CARS | NOTICIAS.COCHES | WEIRDWHEEL | PINTEREST ]

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V8 Power Returns: Ginetta Set to Launch Limited-Edition Akula Supercar

New BEAST - It’s not every day that the name Ginetta comes up in conversation, especially in the world of supercars where brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren tend to dominate. Yet, here we are, hearing the return of Ginetta Cars Limited with exciting news: the production of their very first supercar, Akula, is on the horizon. After what feels like an eternity, Ginetta has re-emerged with a car that promises both power and rarity, sparking intrigue among automotive enthusiasts worldwide.

The Ginetta Akula, named after the Russian word for "shark," is designed to be a fierce predator in the supercar world, with only 20 units confirmed for production since its launch in 2019. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

The Akula, named after the Russian word for "shark," is a fierce predator in the supercar world. In 2019, Ginetta confirmed that only 20 units of this high-performance vehicle would be produced starting in 2020, making it a rare and exclusive opportunity for those lucky enough to secure one. However, production was delayed, and after being out of the spotlight for years, the British manufacturer reemerged in September 2024, announcing that production would finally begin this year. 

A standout feature of the Ginetta Akula is the V-shaped air vents on the hood, which serve as a subtle nod to the shark theme and give the car a unique personality. (Picture from: TopGear)

What sets the Akula apart from many modern supercars is its commitment to traditional engineering. While the industry shifts towards electrification and turbocharged engines, Ginetta stays true to its roots, equipping the Akula with a naturally aspirated 6.4-liter V8 engine paired with a manual transmission—a bold move in an era where manual gearboxes are becoming increasingly rare.

The Ginetta Akula powered by a naturally aspirated 6.4-liter V8 engine paired with a manual transmission—a bold move in an era where manual gearboxes are becoming increasingly rare. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Speaking of the engine, the Akula’s 600 horsepower is nothing short of impressive. While the torque figure has slightly dropped compared to the racing version of its predecessor, coming in at 494 pound-feet, it still packs enough punch to deliver an exhilarating drive. What makes the Akula particularly special, though, is its lightweight construction. Weighing just 2,624 pounds, the car’s carbon fiber monocoque frame and floor give it a significant advantage over much heavier rivals. To put that into perspective, the Akula is only 172 pounds heavier than the relatively tiny Mazda Miata RF, which is quite a feat for a supercar of this caliber.

The Ginetta Akula's dashboard showcases its clear racing heritage, featuring bare carbon surfaces, a race-car steering yoke, and a display screen. (Picture from: TopGear)

The design of the Akula may not be the most traditionally beautiful, but it exudes an aggressive and distinct character. Sharp angles and bold lines dominate the exterior, making it look as menacing as its namesake. The standout feature is the V-shaped air vents on the hood, a subtle nod to the shark theme that gives the car a unique personality. It’s clear that Ginetta has focused on making a statement with this car, both in performance and aesthetics.

Underneath all this striking design, the Akula boasts an impressive setup for the road. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission, but for those who prefer a more modern touch, there’s an option for a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Ginetta’s attention to detail extends to the driving dynamics as well, with a limited-slip differential and the option of carbon ceramic brakes ensuring that the car handles and stops as sharply as it accelerates.

The Ginetta Akula features fixed seats tailored for each customer, highlighting Ginetta's commitment to making a statement in both performance and aesthetics. (Picture from: TopGear)

Speaking of acceleration, the Akula can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.9 seconds, making it a serious contender in the performance car world. But what’s particularly interesting is Ginetta’s intention for the Akula to also serve as a grand tourer. Despite its supercar performance credentials, the Akula offers a surprising level of practicality. With 16.7 cubic feet of cargo space, electronically adjustable steering, and a generous 26.4-gallon fuel tank, it’s clear that this car isn’t just built for speed but for long-distance comfort as well.

For those interested in taking the Akula on extended drives, Ginetta claims the car can cover up to 450 miles before needing to refuel. That’s a notable achievement, especially when compared to some of its rivals. In an era where fuel efficiency is often sacrificed for power, the Akula manages to strike a balance that many other supercars fail to achieve.

The Ginetta Akula is equipped with a carbon fiber rear spoiler and splitter to enhance stability while driving on the road. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Now, for the price tag. Ginetta is offering this limited-edition supercar at £275,000, which roughly translates to $362,300 or Rp.5.6 billion. While it’s certainly a significant investment, it’s a price that reflects both the rarity and the engineering excellence of the Akula. Interestingly, the current price is lower than the original asking price of £340,000, meaning prospective buyers might be able to secure one of the remaining slots at a slightly more accessible price point. | TQexXPenAz4 |

Ginetta’s return to the spotlight with the Akula is a reminder that the world of high-performance cars still has room for traditional, naturally aspirated machines. While many manufacturers are moving towards electric and hybrid solutions, Ginetta has chosen to offer something different, something that appeals to those who still appreciate the raw power and mechanical purity of a V8 engine. For those fortunate enough to own one of these limited-edition machines, the Akula is more than just a supercar—it’s a celebration of engineering heritage and a glimpse into the future of Ginetta’s legacy. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GINETTA CARS LIMITED | TOPGEAR | EVO.CO.UK | WALLPAPER ]

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Reviving Lamborghini Bravo: Timeless Wedge Design Meets Modern Innovation

📢What-If - Lamborghini has long been synonymous with pushing boundaries, both in performance and design. As the brand hurtles toward an electrified future with models like the Revuelto and Temerario, one designer has taken a detour into the past, reigniting the spark of a forgotten concept.  

The Lamborghini Bravo, a lesser-known yet extraordinary creation from the 1970s, has been brought back to life by independent visionary Marco Maltese through a stunning modern digital concept. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Marco Maltese, an independent visionary, has breathed new life into the Lamborghini Bravo—a lesser-known yet extraordinary creation from the 1970s—through a modern digital concept. This endeavor not only honors Lamborghini's experimental heritage but also highlights the enduring allure of daring automotive design.

The modern Lamborghini Bravo takes the stage with a contemporary twist, staying true to Gandini's original vision and powered by a robust 6,500 cc V12 engine. (Picture from: Automobile-Magazine.fr)

First unveiled at the 1974 Turin Auto Show, the original Lamborghini Bravo was a daring creation by Marcello Gandini, crafted under the Bertone design house. Built on the Lamborghini Urraco platform, it boasted a 3,000 cc V8 engine that delivered an impressive 300 horsepower. While it never transitioned into production, the Bravo stood as a striking example of Gandini's talent and Lamborghini's willingness to explore unconventional ideas. Its wedge-shaped silhouette and forward-thinking design embodied the cutting-edge ethos of 1970s automotive aesthetics.

The modern Lamborghini Bravo is envisioned by Marco Maltese to be built on the carbon fiber monocoque chassis of the Lamborghini Aventador, featuring shortened front and rear doors. (Picture from: Automobile-Magazine.fr)

Fast forward nearly fifty years, and Maltese's reimagined Bravo takes the stage with a modern twist while staying true to Gandini's original vision. The new Bravo concept features a carbon fiber monocoque chassis reminiscent of the Aventador, paired with a powerful 6,500 cc V12 engine. This choice not only bridges the gap between Lamborghini's past and future but also honors the company's legacy of producing roaring, naturally aspirated engines before transitioning fully into electrification.

The modern Lamborghini Bravo also features a meticulously designed cabin, reimagined and crafted in 3D to align with its futuristic concept. (Picture from: Automobile-Magazine.fr)

Maltese’s design captures the essence of the original Bravo while integrating contemporary elements. The hood and rear deck vents, the bold black belt line slicing through the body, and the angular rear wheel arches remain as nods to the 1974 concept. However, modern innovations like sleek LED taillights and updated pop-up headlights seamlessly blend retro charm with current safety and aesthetic standards. At the rear, a triangular exhaust and adaptive wing provide both visual aggression and aerodynamic efficiency, cementing the car’s status as a performance icon.

The modern Lamborghini Bravo embraces a minimalist ethos inside, featuring vintage-inspired seating materials that honor its classic roots. (Picture from: Automobile-Magazine.fr)

Inside, the concept maintains a minimalist ethos. Vintage-inspired seating materials and a wide, streamlined dashboard echo the simplicity of Gandini's designs. A floating tablet-style infotainment system and thoughtfully positioned steering-wheel buttons add a touch of modern convenience without cluttering the interior. This approach reinforces the idea that cutting-edge technology can coexist with timeless design.

The modern Lamborghini Bravo echoes its 1970s predecessor with scoops on the hood and rear, blending cooling functionality with a unique LEGO brick or waffle-like textured style. (Picture from: Automobile-Magazine.fr)

Maltese's tribute to Gandini arrives at a poignant moment. Gandini, who passed away in March 2024, left an indelible mark on automotive design. His work on vehicles like the Alfa Romeo Carabo, Lancia Stratos Zero, and Lamborghini Miura continues to influence modern aesthetics and engineering. While the Bravo may not have garnered the same acclaim as these icons, its DNA is unmistakably present in their designs. By resurrecting the Bravo, Maltese not only celebrates a piece of Gandini’s legacy but also reminds us of the enduring relevance of visionary creativity in the automotive world.

The modern Lamborghini Bravo features a triangular exhaust and an adaptive wing at the rear, combining visual aggression with aerodynamic efficiency to solidify its status as a performance icon. (Picture from: KabarOTO)

Though this iteration of the Bravo remains a digital concept, its reception demonstrates that some designs transcend time. The blend of nostalgia and modernity could potentially inspire Lamborghini to consider a limited-edition production model, perhaps as a tribute to the maestro who shaped the brand’s identity. For now, the digital Bravo serves as a testament to the staying power of bold ideas and the enduring legacy of those who dared to imagine something different. The video below showcases the Bertone museum's car collection, including the original Lamborghini Bravo.

Marco Maltese’s reimagining of the Bravo isn’t just a throwback—it’s a reminder of how far the automotive world has come while staying rooted in its rich history. With electrification transforming the industry, creations like the Bravo prove that the spirit of innovation and audacious design will always drive the heart of Lamborghini. The echoes of Gandini’s genius live on, and through them, the road ahead remains as exhilarating as ever. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSCOOPS | AUTOMOBILE-MAGAZINE.FR | BLACKXPERIENCE ]

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Enterra Vipre: A Surprising Chapter in Automotive History

Unique ONES - In the world of automobiles, there are hidden gems that often go unnoticed, and some of these gems are the brainchildren of unlikely creators. Take, for instance, the Enterra Vipre, a car developed in the mid-1980s not by seasoned automotive engineers but by a group of waiters at the Keg Restaurant on Vancouver’s Granville Island. Yes, you read that right – waiters turned car designers.

The Enterra Vipre was a sports car developed in the mid-1980s not by seasoned automotive engineers but by a group of waiters at the Keg Restaurant on Vancouver’s Granville Island, Canada. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Colani Blue Car: A Design in Search of Its Identity

Maestro WORKS - Luigi 'Lutz' Colani, a legendary figure in automotive design, brought his visionary touch to numerous projects, but one that stands out for its mystery and intrigue is his concept for the Dodge Stealth. This unique design, often referred to as the Luigi Colani Blue Car, reimagined the controversial Dodge Stealth, a car that found itself at the center of national debates about American identity in the early 1990s. Colani’s interpretation breathed new life into the Stealth, taking it beyond the limits of its original concept and influencing future designs in the process.

The Dodge Stealth Concept by Luigi Colani, also known as the Colani Blue Car, was displayed at the Colani Design Museum. (Picture from: CultObjects in Flickr)

The Dodge Stealth itself was part of a collaboration between Chrysler and Mitsubishi, built on the Japanese Z16A platform shared with the Mitsubishi GTO/3000GT. While it carried Dodge branding, the car’s Japanese origins became a point of contention. In 1991, the Stealth was selected as the pace car for the 75th Indianapolis 500, but this decision faced harsh criticism from union leaders and patriotic fans who felt the car didn’t represent true American craftsmanship. The tension surrounding the Stealth was heightened by the Gulf War, leading Chrysler executives to reconsider their choice. In February 1991, just months before the race, they replaced the Stealth with a pre-production Dodge Viper, a car that symbolized American muscle and ingenuity.

The Colani Blue Car is said to be a design built for the Dodge Stealth, based on Mitsubishi's Z16A platform, which is shared with the Mitsubishi GTO/3000GT. (Picture from: CultObjects in Flickr)

Amid this controversy, Luigi Colani’s design for the Dodge Stealth emerged. While it’s unclear whether Colani was officially commissioned by Chrysler or whether this was an independent project, his design transformed the Stealth in a way that was uniquely his. Colani’s take on the car featured his signature bio-design language, with fluid, organic shapes that made the vehicle look like it was in motion even when standing still. The front fascia, with its elongated nose and double headlights, gave the car an almost otherworldly appearance, blending aerodynamic efficiency with Colani’s artistic vision. The rear, reminiscent of American muscle cars like the Camaro, added a sense of raw power and speed to the design.

Luigi Colani posed alongside his car creations, such as the Mamba Concept, Ferrari Testa D'Oro, and many others. (Picture from: RawViper)

Although the Luigi Colani Dodge Stealth concept didn’t reach mass production, it showcased Colani’s ability to reinterpret a vehicle at the center of a national debate and turn it into something bold and futuristic. His design pushed the boundaries of what the Dodge Stealth could be, moving it away from the controversy surrounding its Japanese roots and into the realm of art and innovation.

The Colani Mamba Concept, when viewed as a whole from the front, reveals a unified design where the flowing lines and curves come together to resemble the shape of a Mamba snake's head. (Picture from: Sumally)

Interestingly, Colani’s work on the Dodge Stealth seemed to have a lasting influence on his later designs. In the late 1990s, Colani revisited the Dodge brand, creating several remodels of the Dodge Viper in collaboration with Autohaus Getra, a German automotive company. His work on the Viper, including the Mamba Concept, featured striking elements that echoed his earlier Stealth design. The distinctive double headlights and flowing lines that characterized the Colani Blue Car reappeared in these remodels, suggesting that Colani’s experience with the Stealth left a lasting impact on his design philosophy.

The Colani Shark Speedster was designed and built by Luigi Colani in collaboration with the German auto design house Reinhard Stahl. (Picture from: Autoweek.nl)

Colani’s work in the early 2000s further demonstrated the influence of his Dodge Stealth concept. One notable example is the Colani Shark Speedster, a design that emerged in collaboration with Reinhard Stahl, a German auto design house. The Shark Speedster, with its sleek lines and futuristic aesthetic, bore a resemblance to the Colani Blue Car, particularly in its front fascia. It’s as though Colani took the DNA of the Stealth design and refined it for the next generation of his work. | zF4wJglSr_8 |

The Luigi Colani Dodge Stealth concept stands as a testament to the designer’s ability to turn controversy into creativity. Where others saw a car mired in debates about national identity, Colani saw an opportunity to push boundaries and redefine what the Stealth could be. His Blue Car design, with its organic shapes and radical ideas, not only reimagined the Stealth but also laid the groundwork for future projects, leaving an indelible mark on automotive design well into the 2000s. ***  [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | COLANI | COLANI.ORG | CULTOBJECTS IN X  | BUBBLEMANIA.FR | STORY-CARS | RAWVIPER | DODGEGARAGE | MOPARINSIDERS | REDDIT WEIRDWHEEL ]

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Monica GT Sports: France’s Forgotten Luxury Icon

Forgotten ONES - In the world of luxury cars, certain names resonate with history and passion. Just as Facel Vega once stood as a symbol of French automotive prestige, another name briefly flickered in that same realm—Monica. Named after the wife of its creator, industrialist Jean Tastevin, this car was poised to carry on the legacy of luxury French cars. But unlike many long-standing names in the industry, Monica’s time was tragically short, marking an interesting yet brief chapter in French automotive history.

The Monica sports GT, shown here as the 1973 Monica 560 V8 model, was created by Jean Tastevin's French company, Compagnie Française de Produits Métallurgiques (CFPM), in the early 1970s. (Picture from: GordonMercedes9 on X)

Jean Tastevin, known for his company that manufactured rolling stock for French railways, had a deep admiration for the luxurious creations of Facel Vega, a French luxury car maker that ceased production in 1964. Tastevin saw an opportunity to revive the spirit of French luxury motoring, and within two years, his thoughts were centered on building a new car that would fill the gap left behind by Facel Vega. This decision would eventually lead to the creation of the Monica, but the road to production was filled with challenges.

Monique Tastevin posed along with the GT car that bore her name. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

Unlike the Facel Vega models that were powered by large Chrysler V8 engines, Tastevin’s new car needed to comply with French tax regulations, which meant a smaller engine. The answer came in the form of a 2.6-liter Triumph TR4 engine, developed by Chris Lawrence, a skilled engineer and racing driver. 

The LawrenceTune/Standard-Triumph 2.6-liter engine, as seen here in a Morgan +4. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

Lawrence was initially contracted to supply these engines, but soon, he found himself at the heart of the project, offering his expertise not just in engineering but in car design as well. By 1966, work had begun on the new luxury saloon that would carry the Monica name.

The original Monica prototype, styled by Maurice Gomm. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

As the development progressed, the Monica featured innovative engineering for its time. Its suspension system was sophisticated, with a double-wishbone setup at the front and a Panhard rod at the rear. The car was equipped with disc brakes all around, ensuring it could stop as gracefully as it accelerated. 

The second Monica prototype, styled by Williams & Pritchard. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

Although the prototypes used an unassisted steering system, the production models were planned to include power-assisted steering for a smoother driving experience. The exterior design drew inspiration from iconic cars like the Maserati Indy and Lotus Elan, with a sleek and elegant front end that gave it a striking presence on the road.

A sketch of the Monica prototype made by Carrozzeria Vignale. (Picture from: Hagerty)

Inside, the Monica was no less impressive. Its interior was a blend of craftsmanship and luxury, with finely finished wood accents that gave the cabin a classic GT feel. The green scripted Veglia gauges added a touch of sophistication, while the dark blue leather upholstery paired with parchment-colored carpets created a comfortable and inviting environment. Rear seating was particularly plush, with thick padding and ample legroom, making it a true luxury saloon.

The third Monica prototype, styled by Carrozzeria Vignale. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

However, as the prototypes were built and tested, it became clear that the Triumph engine lacked the refinement necessary for a car of this stature. This led to a significant change in the powertrain. Lawrence, recognizing the need for a more refined engine, convinced Tastevin to switch to a 3.0-liter V8 designed by Ted Martin. Although the new V8 was smoother, it lacked low-end torque, prompting the decision to increase its displacement to 3.5 liters, which boosted power to 240 bhp when fitted with Weber carburettors.

A preproduction Monica 350 prototype powered by a Ted Martin's 3.0-liter V8 engine. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

Despite these improvements, the Monica’s journey was far from smooth. A series of prototypes were built over the following years, with various engineers and companies lending their expertise to the project. Renowned coachbuilders such as Chapron and Vignale, along with body builders Williams & Pritchard, contributed to different aspects of the car's development. This collaborative effort resulted in multiple body designs, engine configurations, and transmission setups, all while costs continued to rise.

A Monica prototype on public display for the first time in Paris. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

The Monica finally made its public debut at the Paris Salon in October 1971, under the name Monica 350. However, the car still lacked the performance to truly compete with its rivals, leading to another significant change. The decision was made to replace the 3.5-liter V8 with a more powerful 5.6-liter Chrysler V8, producing 285 bhp and 333 lb-ft of torque. 

The Monica 350, powered by a Ted Martin's 3.5-liter V8 engine, made its public debut at the Paris Salon in October 1971. (Picture from: DrivenToWrite)

This revised version, now called the Monica 560, was unveiled at the Geneva Salon in 1973. It was billed as the world’s fastest four-door saloon, boasting a top speed of 150 mph and a host of luxury features including air conditioning, electric windows, and high-end leather trim.

Interior view of the 1973 Monica 560 V8 GT. (Picture from: GordonMercedes9 on X)

Yet, despite its impressive specifications, the timing of the Monica’s release could not have been worse. The global oil crisis of the early 1970s made large, thirsty V8 engines far less appealing, and the Monica struggled to find buyers. By 1975, just as production was starting to gain momentum, Tastevin made the difficult decision to shut down the project. 

Rear three-quarter view of the 1973 Monica 560 V8 GT. (Picture from: GordonMercedes9 on X)

Although Panther Westwinds briefly considered continuing production in the UK, the plan ultimately fell through, leaving the Monica as a rare footnote in automotive history. As Jean Tastevin had envisioned a production run of 400 Monicas per year, but in the end, only 35 cars were ever built, most of which were pre-production prototypes.

Today, the Monica stands as the last independent French luxury car, joining the ranks of forgotten brands like Facel Vega and Delahaye. Though its time was brief, the Monica’s story remains a fascinating chapter in the history of luxury motoring—a testament to ambition, craftsmanship, and the ever-changing fortunes of the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CURBSIDECLASSIC | HAGERTY | BRINGATRAILER | GORDONMERCEDES9 | WIKIPEDIA | DRIVENTOWRITE | RARECOMPONENTCARS ]

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