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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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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Hispano Alemán Vizcaya: The Iconic Spanish Car That Refined the Porsche 914/6

Forgotten ONES - The tale of the Hispano Alemán Vizcaya is a captivating chapter in automotive history, marked by ambition, cross-cultural collaboration, and ultimately, unfortunate legal setbacks. Conceived by Werner Bernhard Heiderich—known as Ben Heiderich—a former U.S. Air Force serviceman who had relocated to Spain, the Vizcaya was his ambitious attempt to create a refined alternative to the Porsche 914-6. 

The Hispano Alemán Vizcaya was born from Ben Heiderich's vision to fill Spain's gap in luxury cars by creating an elegant, high-performance vehicle. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)

At a time when luxury cars were scarce in Spain, Heiderich saw potential in designing an elegant, high-performance vehicle that would appeal to both foreign and local audiences. Driven by his passion for cars and his strong connections within the automotive industry, Heiderich launched the Hispano Alemán brand in 1969. His vision for the Vizcaya took shape when he decided to enhance the Porsche 914/6, a model that was often criticized for its somewhat boxy appearance. 

The Hispano Alemán Vizcaya took shape from Ben Heiderich’s vision to transform the often-criticized, boxy Porsche 914-6 into a more refined and elegant model. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)

Heiderich’s goal was to transform the car into a more sophisticated design, one that could compete visually with other European sports cars. For this ambitious reimagining, Heiderich initially approached Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, but the project eventually fell into the hands of his friend, Pietro Frua, a respected name in Italian automotive design.

The Hispano Alemán Vizcaya unveiled at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show, showcased a sleeker, more Italian-inspired elegance to the car, giving it smooth lines and a refined profile that set it apart from its Porsche counterpart. (Picture from: HeartBoomCars)

The resulting design, unveiled at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show, was a stunning transformation of the 914/6. Frua’s expertise brought a sleeker, more Italian-inspired elegance to the car, giving it smooth lines and a refined profile that set it apart from its Porsche counterpart. Named the Hispano Alemán Vizcaya, the vehicle quickly attracted attention at the show, standing out as a beautiful fusion of German engineering and Italian artistry.

The Hispano Alemán Vizcaya was designed by Pietro Frua who succeeded in making this car have a beautiful fusion of German engineering and Italian artistry. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)

Interest in the Vizcaya grew significantly when even Porsche showed enthusiasm, placing a considerable order with the intention of introducing the Vizcaya to a broader market. However, as the project gained momentum, it encountered legal obstacles. A dispute arose between Heiderich and Frua, which led to the car being seized by Swiss authorities shortly after its Geneva debut. While Heiderich fought to recover the Vizcaya in court, the legal proceedings dragged on for years.

Beneath its sleek exterior, the Hispano Alemán Vizcaya boasted a tuned engine, producing an impressive 225 horsepower, ensuring exhilarating acceleration and dynamic handling characteristic of a true sports car. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

By the time Heiderich finally won the court case in 1976, the window of opportunity had closed. The Porsche 914 was discontinued that same year, making the prospect of resuming the Vizcaya project unfeasible. Despite the legal victory, the timing was unfortunate, and Heiderich had to abandon his dream of bringing the Vizcaya into full-scale production, and left only one unit ever made.

The Hispano Alemán Vizcaya was built on the chassis and drivetrain of the Porsche 914-6 which was produced from 1969 to 1976. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)

The Hispano Alemán Vizcaya remains a symbol of Heiderich’s bold vision and his willingness to take risks. Though it ultimately faced a premature end, the Vizcaya still stands as a testament to the unique blend of Spanish and German automotive passion, driven by an individual who sought to create something truly special. Today, the Vizcaya is remembered as a rare gem that showcases what might have been, embodying a story of creativity and ambition halted by fate but cherished by car enthusiasts who value its legacy. ***  [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HEARTBOOMCARS | BURRITODETODO | BLOG.TARANEA.ES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | UNDISCOVEREDCLASSIC | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC | AUTOPASION18 ]

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Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 by Zagato: Wedge Design’s Hidden Gem with Rock ‘n’ Roll Flair

Forgotten Wedge-Styled Car - In the late 1960s, a bold new trend emerged in the automotive world with the introduction of wedge-shaped car designs. These designs, marked by sharp angles, streamlined silhouettes, and futuristic aesthetics, represented a shift in the way cars looked and performed. The wedge shape wasn’t just a style choice; it symbolized speed, innovation, and a forward-thinking mindset that captured the imagination of designers and car enthusiasts alike. This daring approach to car design led to the creation of some iconic models, each showcasing unique interpretations of the wedge form.

The Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 by Zagato was a sleek two-seater coupe designed by Giuseppe Mittino, Zagato’s chief designer, known as the AZ6 Sperimentale. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

The 1968 Alfa Romeo Carabo, 1969 Holden Hurricane RD001, 1970 Ferrari PF Modulo, and 1970 Lancia Stratos Zero were among the first to make an impact. These early models were revolutionary, with designs that appeared as though they belonged in science fiction rather than on modern highways. Each of these cars had distinctive elements, such as the Carabo’s scissor doors or the Stratos Zero’s ultra-low profile, which pushed boundaries and inspired a new generation of designers. Moving into the early 1970s, cars like the 1971 Lamborghini Countach, 1972 Maserati Boomerang, 1972 BMW Turbo E25, 1972 Lotus Esprit M70, and 1978 Dome Zero expanded on this wedge theme, emphasizing aerodynamics and performance.

The Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 by Zagato featured aluminum bodywork built on the chassis of the Alfa Romeo GTV6. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

However, this era wasn’t solely dominated by widely recognized brands or models. Behind the scenes, brands like Alfa Romeo and renowned coachbuilders were also experimenting with their own interpretations of the wedge shape. Alfa Romeo, known for its high-performance, sporty cars, occasionally faced challenges in maintaining its focus on sports cars due to shifting priorities within the company and the Fiat group. 

The Alfa Romeo Zeta Sei by Zagato featured with Zagato's distinctive “double bubble” roof design. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

But fans and independent coachbuilders wanted to keep the brand's sporting heritage alive. This passion for Alfa Romeo’s racing DNA led to the appearance of unique, wedge-shaped Alfa models, such as the Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 (Sei) by Zagato, a car that remains largely unknown outside dedicated car enthusiast circles.

The Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 by Zagato was powered by a robust 2.5-liter V6 engine, providing it with impressive performance and a thrilling driving experience. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

The Zeta 6 story began with a 1979 proposal by Giuseppe Mittino, Zagato’s chief designer. He approached Alfa Romeo with sketches of a sleek two-seater coupe that he called the AZ6 Sperimentale. Alfa Romeo, intrigued by the design, approved the production of two prototypes while also commissioning Bertone to create a counter-design, which became the Bertone Delfino. The Delfino, presented alongside the Zeta 6 at the 1983 Geneva Motor Show, was an angular, wedge-inspired concept that visually anticipated the Subaru SVX.

The Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 by Zagato featured typical short overhangs and echoed elements of the Porsche 928, showcasing a flowing window line that provided it with an unmistakable presence. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Yet, it was clear that the Zeta 6 was intended to be something more. Zagato took the Alfa Romeo GTV6 as the basis for the Zeta 6, outfitting it with a 2.5-liter V6 engine and a striking body that incorporated Zagato’s signature “double bubble” roof design. The Zeta 6 featured innovative details like rotating round door handles reminiscent of vintage telephone dials and a rear seating area that made it a 2+2 coupe, balancing style with a touch of practicality. The silhouette of the Zeta 6 also evoked elements of the Porsche 928, with a flowing window line that gave it an unmistakable presence.

The Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 by Zagato is complemented by a compact cockpit featuring an elegant 2+2 seat configuration. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Alfa Romeo briefly considered producing the Zeta 6 in limited numbers. However, financial constraints forced the company to refocus its resources on higher-priority projects, such as the compact Arna developed in collaboration with Nissan. While Alfa ultimately canceled the Zeta 6 project, Zagato sought ways to produce it independently but faced financial limitations as well. Despite this setback, Zagato continued to thrive, re-establishing itself as a distinguished coachbuilder and taking on projects with brands like Maserati, Aston Martin, and Nissan.

One of the two Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 models found its way into a private collection in London and was later acquired by Italian collector Corrado Lopresto. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Out of the two Zeta 6 prototypes built, one was a brown model that became part of the Alfa Romeo Museum collection, preserving a piece of this unique chapter in automotive history. The second, a green coupe, found its way into a private collection in London and was later acquired by Italian collector Corrado Lopresto. Rumor has it that an unfinished third body exists in the Netherlands, although its whereabouts remain a mystery among car enthusiasts.

The Zeta 6, like the iconic wedge-shaped models that came before it, represents a piece of automotive history characterized by daring design and innovative thinking. From the Alfa Romeo Carabo to the Maserati Boomerang, each of these models contributed to an era when car design was as much about expression and vision as it was about engineering. The Zeta 6 stands as a tribute to Alfa Romeo’s spirit of performance and Zagato’s legacy of bespoke craftsmanship. Even today, it continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, embodying an era that celebrated creativity, individuality, and the endless pursuit of speed and style. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SECRET-CLASSIC | BELOWTHERADAR | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CARDESIGNNEWS | JALPONIK ]

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Lombardi VW 1600 SS: Forgotten Wedge-Shaped Icon

ONE-OFF - In the world of sports cars, some vehicles gain legendary status, while others remain as fascinating, one-off projects. The Lombardi VW 1600 Super Sport is a prime example of the latter. Unveiled by Francis Lombardi at the 1970 Turin Motor Show, this unique sports car, captured the imagination of car enthusiasts with its bold design and innovative features. Despite its promising introduction, the Lombardi VW 1600 SS never saw mass production. Still, its story continues to captivate those who appreciate automotive history and innovation.

The Lombardi VW 1600 SS was a two-seater sports car that attracted attention not only for its performance but also for its striking appearance. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

The Lombardi VW 1600 SS was a two-seater sports car that drew attention not only for its performance but also for its eye-catching appearance. The car was built on the iconic VW Beetle platform, but Lombardi reimagined it as a sleek, wedge-shaped coupé that looked radically different from the original. One of its most distinctive features was its angular, wedge-like design, which set it apart from other cars of its time. The rear of the car was elevated, accommodating the rear-mounted flat-four-cylinder engine that produced an impressive 85 horsepower at 5,500 rpm. This engine, known for its reliability and simplicity, provided the Lombardi VW 1600 SS with the power it needed to compete in the sports car market.

Francis Lombardi's Volkswagen 1600 SS debuted at the 1970 Turin Motor Show. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

Beyond its engine, the Lombardi VW 1600 SS had several other design elements that made it stand out. The pop-up headlights were one of the most striking features. Unlike traditional headlights, these rotated in a manner reminiscent of the Opel GT, adding a futuristic touch to the car’s aesthetic. Another unusual feature was the positioning of the fuel filler cap, which was located near the windshield and extended outward, a design choice rarely seen in other vehicles. The car also had a curved shoulder line, contributing to its streamlined, dynamic look. Lombardi even integrated a safety arc into the body, adding a layer of protection while maintaining the car’s sleek silhouette.

Among the various design elements that made Francis Lombardi's Volkswagen 1600 SS stand out, the pop-up headlights were particularly striking. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

Measuring 3.93 meters in length, 1.65 meters in width, and standing only 1.125 meters high, the Lombardi VW 1600 SS was compact yet aggressive in its appearance. It was strictly a two-seater, emphasizing the car's focus on performance and style over practicality. Despite its small size, the vehicle gave off a powerful presence, and its sharp lines hinted at its capability on the road. The compact design, combined with its relatively lightweight body, allowed the car to take full advantage of the engine’s power, promising an exhilarating driving experience.

Measuring 3.93 meters in length, 1.65 meters in width, and standing just 1.125 meters high, Francis Lombardi's Volkswagen 1600 SS was compact yet had an aggressive appearance. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

However, despite its promising attributes, the Lombardi VW 1600 SS never reached series production. While the car had a lot to offer in terms of style, performance, and innovation, Lombardi faced significant challenges in bringing it to market. The main issue was the cost of production, which Lombardi could not reduce to a competitive level. 

Aside from accommodating two people, the cabin of Francis Lombardi's Volkswagen 1600 SS featured a sporty interior with a three-spoke steering wheel and a driver-focused dashboard. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

Sports car enthusiasts had other options at the time, and without the ability to lower costs, Lombardi was unable to secure a place for the VW 1600 SS in a highly competitive market. As a result, the Lombardi VW 1600 SS remained a one-off, a unique piece of automotive history that never had the chance to fully realize its potential.

Francis Lombardi's Volkswagen 1600 SS powered by a rear-mounted flat-four-cylinder engine that produced an impressive 85 horsepower at 5,500 rpm. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

The whereabouts of the Lombardi VW 1600 SS remain a mystery. No one seems to know what happened to the car after its appearance at the 1970 Turin Motor Show. It’s possible that the vehicle is tucked away in a private collection or has been lost to time, but its legacy lives on through the stories and photos that have surfaced over the years. While it may never have achieved mass production, the Lombardi VW 1600 SS serves as a reminder of the creativity and ambition that defined the automotive industry during that era.

Though it only existed as a prototype, the Lombardi VW 1600 Super Sport is still celebrated by automotive enthusiasts today. It stands as a symbol of what could have been—a sports car with striking design, capable performance, and innovative features that might have left a lasting mark on the industry. Its story, while brief, is a testament to the creativity and boldness of its creator, Francis Lombardi, and the enduring fascination with rare and unique cars.

Francis Lombardi's Volkswagen 1600 SS featured a curved shoulder line that contributed to its streamlined, dynamic look, with an elevated rear to accommodate the rear-mounted flat-four-cylinder engine. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

In the end, the Lombardi VW 1600 SS is a car that leaves us wondering what might have been if circumstances had been different. Its bold design and engineering choices made it stand out in its time, and it continues to inspire admiration even decades later. Though it never reached the production line, its place in automotive history is secure, a rare gem from a bygone era that remains a source of fascination for car lovers around the world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZWISCHENGAS | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CARSTYLING.RU | STORY-CARS | COACHBUILD | ALLCARINDEX ]

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EGAL: The Ultimate Ford Galaxie V8 Big-Cat Hybrid

Unique ONES - The 1960s were a pivotal time for car enthusiasts, characterized by ambitious modifications that fused European elegance with American power. Among the remarkable creations of this era was the Jaguar E-Type “EGAL” — with 'E' representing E-Type and 'Gal' signifying Galaxie. This bold hybrid combined the sleek design of the Jaguar E-Type with the immense power of a Ford Galaxie V8 engine. While other models, like the Shelby Cobra, gained widespread fame, the EGAL emerged as a unique engineering marvel, showcasing the creativity and expertise of its creators.

The fearsome Jaguar E-Type 'EGAL,' created by Rob Beck and Geoff Richardson, was a bold hybrid that fused the sleek design of the E-Type with the immense power of a Ford Galaxie V8 engine. (Picture from: Fiskens)

The EGAL was the result of the collaboration between Rob Beck and Geoff Richardson, two experienced racers and engineers. Before embarking on the EGAL project, they had already worked on a highly modified Jaguar XK120, which had earned them a reputation for maximizing Jaguar’s engine capabilities. By 1964, however, they felt they had reached the limits of what they could achieve with Jaguar’s traditional powerplants. Their next step was more daring—fitting a larger American engine into a Jaguar E-Type. Having gained experience with oversized American engines, particularly a 3.5L Buick V8 in a Cooper Formula Junior car, they set their sights on creating a V8-powered E-Type.

The masterminds behind Jaguar E-type 'EGAL' were Rob Beck and Geoff Richardson, both seasoned racers and engineers. (Picture from: Fiskens)

To begin their project, Rob and Geoff secured a 7-liter NASCAR-spec Ford Galaxie 427ci engine, capable of producing over 470 horsepower, from Holman & Moody, a well-known American race preparer. To house this massive engine, they acquired a used Jaguar E-Type with chassis number 850450. The challenge of fitting such a large engine into the narrow frame of the E-Type, originally designed for a 3.8-liter straight-six, was significant. They had to modify the top tubes of the space frame to create enough room, but the engine fit more smoothly than expected, showing the duo’s engineering prowess.

In 1972, the Jaguar E-Type 'EGAL' underwent further modifications, including the installation of wider JA Pearce alloy wheels, which enhanced both traction and braking performance. (Picture from: Fiskens)

The original Jaguar gearbox was kept, but a new twin-plate Borg and Beck clutch, similar to those used in Shelby Cobras, was added to handle the increased power. Cooling the massive engine posed another challenge, as the Jaguar’s standard radiator couldn’t cope. They replaced it with a Gallay radiator and oil cooler, along with a revised bonnet featuring air ducts styled after the Ferrari 250 GTO. With these modifications, the EGAL was finally ready for the track.

To cool its massive engine, the Jaguar E-Type EGAL is equipped with a Gallay radiator and oil cooler, complemented by a revised bonnet featuring Ferrari 250 GTO-inspired air ducts, making it track-ready. (Picture from: Fiskens)

The EGAL made its racing debut in 1964 at Silverstone during a mid-summer meeting organized by the Nottingham Sports Car Club. It quickly made an impression, winning both the sports car and Formula Libre events. Its success continued later that year, when it went up against two Ferrari 250 GTOs at Castle Combe, beating them in an impressive display of power and handling. Rob Beck handled the driving, while Geoff Richardson took care of the pits. The car’s power was undeniable, but its Jaguar brakes struggled with the challenge of slowing the vehicle down from speeds of up to 150 mph.

Despite its monstrous power, the Jaguar E-Type 'EGAL' isn’t as intimidating on public roads as you might expect—in dry conditions, at least. (Picture from: ClassicAndSportsCar)

Despite the brake issues, the EGAL continued to perform well. However, Rob Beck eventually passed the driving duties to Barrie "Whizzo" Williams, an experienced rally driver. Barrie’s ability to handle drift-prone cars made him an excellent fit for the EGAL, and under his control, the car continued to win races and podium finishes at various events and hill climbs throughout Britain. However, by 1968, the car began to lose its competitive edge, primarily due to braking limitations caused by the Borrani wheels, which restricted the size of the brakes that could be used.

A roll cage makes the Jaguar E-Type EGAL's already tight cabin feel even more snug, providing added safety while enhancing the sense of being securely enveloped within the car's sporty compact interior. (Picture from: Fiskens)

In 1972, Bob Kerr of Loch Lomond, Scotland, bought the EGAL and made further modifications, including fitting wider JA Pearce alloy wheels, which improved both traction and braking. Bob continued to race the EGAL in local hill climbs, including the Doune Hill Climb. Over the years, the car passed through various hands and eventually found its way to the United States in the late 1980s, where it took part in vintage racing events at tracks like Watkins Glen and Laguna Seca.

The Jaguar E-type EGAL’s front subframe tubes had to be tweaked to make way for the vast V8 engine. (Picture from: Fiskens)

During its time in the U.S., the EGAL received further upgrades, including having its engine bored out to 8.5 liters, pushing its power to over 650 horsepower and 605 lb-ft of torque. The car’s performance was so impressive that Warren “Woody” Southwell, one of its owners, reported that the EGAL could keep up with GT40s on straightaways. This increase in power only added to the car’s already legendary status on the track.

The Jaguar E-Type EGAL is equipped with massive 26.5x8.0-15 front tires that effortlessly follow every camber in the road, providing exceptional grip and stability during drives. (Picture from: Fiskens)

In 2018, the EGAL returned to the UK, where its current owner entrusted it to Chris Keith Lucas, a Jaguar specialist at CKL Developments, for restoration. After its restoration, the EGAL reappeared at British motorsport events, including the Goodwood Festival of Speed and Shelsley Walsh in 2021, marking its first appearance in the UK in over 40 years. Its return to the track brought the EGAL back to the forefront of British motorsport, where it once again thrilled crowds with its raw power and unique design.

The EGAL’s journey is a testament to the boldness and ingenuity of its creators. By combining British elegance with American muscle, Rob Beck and Geoff Richardson created a one-of-a-kind racing machine that pushed the boundaries of automotive design. Today, the EGAL continues to inspire car enthusiasts and racers, reminding them of an era when anything seemed possible in the world of high-performance automobiles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICANDSPORTSCAR | FISKENS ]

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