Forgotten Wedge-Styled Car - In the late 1960s, car design underwent a dramatic transformation with the advent of wedge-shaped vehicles. This bold design trend was more than just a stylistic experiment; it represented a shift toward streamlined, futuristic cars that prioritized aerodynamic efficiency and visual impact. This era produced several iconic models, each bringing something unique to the automotive world, from the Alfa Romeo Carabo in 1968 to the Lamborghini Countach in 1971. These designs were statements of ambition, creativity, and the pursuit of speed. While some models, like the Countach, achieved widespread fame, others, despite being groundbreaking, remained lesser-known treasures.
The Alfa Romeo Delfino by Bertone was a unique creation led by designer Marc Deschamps, aimed to capture the essence of refined elegance within a futuristic coupe.. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Alfa Romeo, a brand synonymous with Italian flair and high-performance engineering, played a notable role in this era’s design evolution. Known for its dynamic sports cars and sleek coupes, Alfa Romeo represented a lineage of racing spirit blended with sophisticated design. However, as the 1980s arrived, the brand's sporty image was occasionally subdued under corporate decisions by Alfa and its later parent company, Fiat. Alfa enthusiasts and independent designers, however, were unwilling to let go of the brand’s sporty DNA. As a result, two Alfa Romeo-based prototypes—the Zeta 6 Zagato and Bertone Delfino—debuted at the 1983 Geneva Motor Show, exemplifying efforts to rekindle the brand’s sporting heritage and charm.
The Alfa Romeo Delfino featured a reimagined front with a large scudetto grille, blending Alfa Romeo’s iconic cues with Bertone’s unique touch.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Zeta 6 Zagato concept, crafted by the distinguished Giuseppe Mittino at Zagato, was a sleek, compact two-seater coupe. Called the AZ6 Sperimentale, this car bore Zagato’s distinctive style, merging Alfa’s sporty allure with Italian craftsmanship. On the other hand, Bertone’s Alfa Romeo Delfino concept, a unique creation led by designer Marc Deschamps, took a different path. Unlike Zagato’s proposal, which embraced Alfa’s performance-oriented image, the Delfino aimed to capture the essence of refined elegance within a futuristic coupe.
The Alfa Romeo Delfino's horizontal lines and angular elements reflected the contemporary design ethos of the 1980s, sharing a visual connection to the Citroën BX, a Gandini-attributed model of 1983.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Designed as a showcase of Bertone's aesthetic sensibilities, the Delfino was conceived under Deschamps’ direction, who had taken over after the legendary Marcello Gandini’s departure. Gandini, known for his innovative designs, had influenced Bertone’s design language significantly, and the Delfino carried forward some of this legacy. The car’s horizontal lines and angular elements reflected the contemporary design ethos of the 1980s, sharing a visual connection to the Citroën BX, a Gandini-attributed model of 1983. The influence was clear, with similarities in the wheel arches, canopy design, and even the wheels themselves, which mirrored those of the BX. This shared design language underscored Bertone’s approach to car design as both artistic and functional, adapting to the evolving trends without compromising style.
The Alfa Romeo Delfino was utilized Alfa Romeo’s robust mechanical engineering, based on the Alfa 6 platform.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Underneath the Delfino’s futuristic exterior was Alfa Romeo’s robust mechanical engineering, based on the Alfa 6 platform, which reinforced its sporty credentials. This collaboration between Bertone and Alfa was no mere coincidence, as the two brands shared a long history of creating memorable models. Classic Alfa Romeo designs like the Giulietta Sprint and the 2000/2600 Sprint Coupés served as inspirations, setting a high bar for the Delfino to achieve. These predecessors were revered not only for their performance but also for their timeless style, a legacy that the Delfino sought to uphold.
The Alfa Romeo Delfino showcased more than just Bertone’s aesthetic vision; its design featured innovative interior concepts that were cutting-edge for the 1980s.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Bertone’s design for the Delfino extended beyond mere aesthetics; it also included innovative ideas for the interior, showcasing what was considered cutting-edge in the 1980s. The dashboard design, inspired by concepts from Vélizy, emphasized control pods arranged around the steering wheel, a layout that predicted modern vehicle control interfaces. This feature foreshadowed elements we see today in some of the latest cars, particularly in high-end brands like Mercedes-Benz, blending futuristic technology with user-friendly design.
The Alfa Romeo Delfino’s exterior also embraced simplicity with a clear vision, combining ample glass surfaces and integrated body panels to create a cohesive look.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Delfino’s exterior also embraced simplicity with a clear vision, combining ample glass surfaces and integrated body panels to create a cohesive look. The window surfaces were notably large, enhancing visibility and giving the cabin a sense of openness, a rare feature for a sporty coupe of its time. The car’s overall shape and proportions remained classic, adhering to the front-engine, rear-wheel-drive setup that maintained the balance and driving dynamics Alfa was known for. Bertone’s attention to detail was evident, especially in the styling of the trunk area, where unique design elements set it apart from other models, hinting at the brand’s commitment to redefining established norms.
The Alfa Romeo Delfino highlighted Bertone’s attention to detail, especially in the trunk area, where unique design elements set it apart and reflected the brand’s commitment to redefining established norms. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
At the front, the Delfino presented a reimagined version of Alfa Romeo’s signature design cues, integrated with Bertone’s distinctive touch. The scudetto—a familiar Alfa Romeo grille feature—was generously proportioned, representing a subtle nod to the brand’s identity. Bertone’s design emphasized both the sporty and refined sides of Alfa, presenting a car that was unmistakably modern yet deeply rooted in its heritage. This design fusion resulted in a vehicle that exuded both grace and agility, embodying Bertone’s vision of a high-performance GT that appealed to sophisticated tastes.
Since there is no video available about the Alfa Romeo Delfino, here are the Bertone car creations on display at the Volandia Aerospace Museum in Milan.
Through the Delfino, Bertone demonstrated a masterful balance between tradition and innovation. The car’s aesthetic language captured the essence of Alfa Romeo’s sporty soul while presenting it in a form that was strikingly modern. This design approach made the Delfino a symbol of Bertone’s enduring influence in automotive design, standing as a tribute to Italian craftsmanship and vision. Though the Delfino never reached mass production, it remains a testament to a period in automotive history where creativity and passion led the industry toward bold new directions.*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DRIVENTOWRITE | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CARDESIGNNEWS | STORY-CARS ]
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Mini Monster - Japan is known for its innovation and creativity in the automotive world, and nowhere is this more evident than in the delightful variety of small, uniquely styled vehicles that roam the streets. Known as 'kei cars,' these compact vehicles are manufactured by nearly every major Japanese brand, including Daihatsu, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Suzuki, and Toyota. These small cars have a charm that’s hard to overlook, thanks to their petite size and characteristic designs.
The RE Amemiya GReddy 6-AZ1 was rebuilt in 2000, emerging in its final form with a striking white finish. (Picture from: GTSupreme)
Unique ONES - In the world of automotive design, certain cars stand out not just for their performance but for their sheer uniqueness and the story behind their creation. One such vehicle is the Concept 2000 GT, a car that has intrigued enthusiasts and collectors alike for decades. Like a hidden gem in the automotive landscape, this rare creation represents a bold vision from the late 1980s, built on the foundation of a Pontiac Fiero but transformed into something far more striking. Its origins, design, and exclusivity make it a vehicle worth exploring in detail.
The Concept 2000 GT's sleek, low profile and wide stance make its design one of its most captivating features, appearing futuristic even today. (Picture from: DriveAnotherDay)
David Tidwell, a custom car builder of Country Auto Body in Largo, Florida, set out in 1988 to create something truly one-of-a-kind. Using the Pontiac Fiero chassis—a popular platform for kit cars—Tidwell aimed to design a high-performance vehicle that would stand out from the crowd. Unlike typical Fiero-based projects, Tidwell’s creation wasn’t a simple body kit grafted onto an existing car, turning it into something awkward like the Fierri. Instead, it was a complete custom build, designed to grab attention and break the mold. This vision gave rise to the incredibly rare Concept 2000 GT.
The
Pontiac Fiero served as the donor car for the Concept 2000 GT, a
vehicle that has intrigued enthusiasts and collectors for decades. (Picture from: DriveAnotherDay)
The design of the Concept 2000 GT is one of its most captivating features. With its sleek, low profile and wide stance, the car looks futuristic even by today’s standards. Made from thick, hand-laid fiberglass, the body is reinforced with a steel subframe to accommodate its widened and lengthened proportions. This isn’t a flimsy kit car but a robust and carefully crafted machine designed to look and feel substantial. The car’s smooth curves, aggressive front end, and flowing lines give it a presence on the road that’s hard to ignore.
The Concept 2000 GT made from thick, hand-laid fiberglass, the body is reinforced with a steel subframe to accommodate its widened and lengthened proportions. (Picture from: FiberClassics.org)
One of the key aspects of its design is the way it conceals its Pontiac Fiero origins. To the untrained eye, there are few giveaways that this car shares a platform with the Fiero. Some enthusiasts may be able to spot the original car’s side glass or B-pillars, but otherwise, the Concept 2000 GT hides its base well under its sleek exterior. The car even retains some Fiero emblems on the steering wheel, but overall, it presents itself as a unique, exotic supercar that could easily be mistaken for a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or even a concept vehicle straight out of a movie set.
The Concept 2000 GT features just enough room in the front, minimal space in the back, a spoiler, and rims that wouldn’t look out of place on a late '80s Ferrari. (Picture from: FiberClassics.org)
As the distinctive design of the Concept 2000 GT captures the imagination of car enthusiasts. Though it may not be to everyone’s taste, its uniqueness is undeniable. To some, it evokes memories of iconic movie cars like the Wraith, which itself was based on the Dodge M4S Turbo Interceptor—a car built as a high-performance pace car for the Indy 500 in 1981. The Concept 2000 GT, while less known, carries the same air of exclusivity and flair.
The Concept 2000 GT's interior is thoughtfully designed, featuring plush seating and a well-maintained cabin that perfectly complements its striking exterior. (Picture from: FiberClassics.org)
Under the hood, the Concept 2000 GT is equipped with a turbocharged V6 engine, providing it with the power to match its bold looks. The addition of modern amenities like power steering, air conditioning, and cruise control elevates the driving experience beyond what the original Fiero offered. These features, along with power windows and a tilt steering wheel, make the Concept 2000 GT not only a visual statement but also a comfortable and enjoyable car to drive on the road.
While the car’s performance and design are impressive, what truly sets it apart is its rarity. Only 12 examples of the Concept 2000 GT were ever produced, and today, just three remain in the United States, with reports of black, white, and red versions. The rest have found homes overseas, making the car a highly sought-after collector’s item. Each vehicle was meticulously hand-built by Tidwell and his team, with no two being exactly the same. The car was originally priced at nearly $50,000 in 1988, a considerable amount at the time, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into its creation.
The 1988 Concept 2000 GT is equipped with a turbocharged V6 engine, providing it with the power to match its bold looks. (Picture from: FiberClassics.org)
The interior of the Concept 2000 GT is equally well-thought-out. With plush seating and a well-maintained cabin, the car offers a level of luxury that complements its striking exterior. Features like remote door poppers, power mirrors, and a high-quality Kenwood CD receiver were ahead of their time, adding to the car’s appeal. Despite being over 30 years old, many of these cars have been preserved in excellent condition, with owners taking great care to maintain their rarity and value.
Mechanically, the Concept 2000 GT has proven to be reliable, with many surviving examples receiving regular maintenance and updates. From overhauling the air conditioning system to replacing tires and brake pads, owners have gone to great lengths to ensure that these cars remain roadworthy and enjoyable to drive. The attention to detail in keeping these rare vehicles in top condition speaks to the passion and dedication of their owners.
The Concept 2000 GT stands as a testament to David Tidwell’s vision and the enduring appeal of custom-built cars. (Picture from: DriveAnotherDay)
The Concept 2000 GT stands as a testament to David Tidwell’s vision and the enduring appeal of custom-built cars. Its striking design, combined with its rarity and performance, has earned it a place in automotive history as one of the most unique and exclusive vehicles to come out of the 1980s. Today, it remains a highly sought-after collector’s item, a car that continues to captivate those lucky enough to see it in person. Since no videos of this car can be found, here’s a video about the Pontiac Fiero 2+2 Concept instead.
For anyone fortunate enough to get behind the wheel of a Concept 2000 GT, the experience is more than just driving a rare car—it’s a journey into the past, where creativity and craftsmanship came together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether admired for its design, its rarity, or its story, the Concept 2000 GT will always be remembered as a car that dared to be different. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOBLOG | CARSCOOPS | FIBERCLASSIC.ORG | DRIVEANOTHERDAY ]
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Forgotten ONES - Caterham is best known for the Caterham Seven, but they’ve explored other models, too, like the Caterham 21. Unlike the Seven, the 21 had a roadster-style body on a tubular spaceframe chassis, bringing a fresh look and added rigidity to Caterham's line. This model aimed to provide a more practical, road-friendly experience while still offering a taste of Caterham’s signature thrill.
The Caterham 21 features a roadster-style bodywork on a tubular spaceframe chassis, bringing a fresh look and added rigidity to Caterham's line. (Picture from: RetroPunk.co.uk)
However, the Caterham 21 faced challenges in the market. When it debuted, most customers preferred the Lotus Elise, a rival sports car with similar appeal. Despite Caterham's hopes, only 48 units of the 21 were ever made, marking it as a unique, limited-edition chapter in Caterham’s history.
The Caterham 21 unveiled at the 1994 British Motor Show, built to celebrate 21 years of the Caterham Seven. (Picture from: RetroPunk.co.uk)
Unveiled at the 1994 British Motor Show, the 21 celebrated 21 years of the Caterham Seven. It shared much of the Seven's mechanical foundation but introduced a curvier, GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) body, a more comfortable cockpit, a wide windshield, and a convertible top, all catering to those seeking a refined driving experience.
The Caterham 21 boasts a more comfortable cockpit that enhances the driving experience and offers better amenities for its occupants. (Picture from: RetroPunk.co.uk)
Structurally, the Caterham 21 was stiffer than the Seven, benefiting from reinforcements called “Toblerones” in the door sills. It also had a wider track, enhancing stability in turns. Buyers could choose from various engine options, from a 115-horsepower 1.6-liter to a powerful 230-horsepower 2.0-liter, tailoring the driving experience to their liking.
The Caterham 21 shared much of the Seven's mechanical foundation but introduced a curvier, GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) body, a wide windshield, and a convertible top, all catering to those seeking a refined driving experience. (Picture from: RetroPunk.co.uk)
Yet, Caterham encountered production delays and technical snags with the 21. Early models suffered from minor issues, and the introduction of the MGF and Lotus Elise lured away potential buyers. Despite plans to produce 200 units per year, only 48 cars were ultimately sold, making the 21 a rare collector’s item.
The Caterham 21 was structurally stiffer than the Seven, thanks to reinforcements known as “Toblerones” in the door sills.(Picture from: RetroPunk.co.uk)
Today, the Caterham 21 is valued by enthusiasts for its quirky design and unique character. While some see its look as dated, others appreciate it as a rare blend of Caterham’s spirit and innovation, showcasing their willingness to break away from the usual style.
Buyers could choose from various
engine options, from a 115-horsepower 1.6L to a powerful 230-horsepower
2.0L, tailoring the driving experience to their liking. (Picture from: RetroPunk.co.uk)
Now, Caterham is trying something bold once again with the upcoming Project V. Set for a mid-2026 release, this all-electric model aims to rival cars like the Lotus Emira and Porsche’s electric Cayman. Built on a lightweight EV platform, Project V brings 272 horsepower, a 0-62 mph time of 4.5 seconds, and a 240-mile range, redefining Caterham’s vision for the future. | 8BXjRK-WwF0 |
Project V represents Caterham’s resilience and drive to evolve. The journey from the 21 to this new electric model reflects their spirit of exploration. As they dive into new technology and design, Caterham’s dedication to thrilling, unique experiences remains clear, inspiring fans to look forward to their next chapter. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CATERHAM | GOODWOOD | RETROMOTOR.CO.UK | RETROPUNK.CO.UK | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Forgotten ONES - The world of automobiles has always been a fascinating realm where innovation and craftsmanship meet. Among the many brands that have graced the automotive landscape, Hispano Alemán stands out, not just for its unique designs, but also for its compelling backstory. Founded in 1969 by Werner Bernhard Heiderich, affectionately known as Ben Heiderich, this Spanish automotive manufacturer captured the imagination of car enthusiasts with its distinctive creations, particularly the Mallorca buggy. Although the brand ceased operations in 1979, its legacy lives on through the vehicles it produced, especially the Hispano Alemán Castilla.
The Hispano Alemán Castilla drew heavily from the Lotus Europa but incorporated many innovative features that were distinctly its own, and made its debut at the 1972 Barcelona Motor Show. (Picture from: CotxesClassics.cat)
Heiderich, a former U.S. Air Force serviceman who had made Spain his home, ventured into the automotive industry with ambitious plans. His early success came from producing around 500 Mallorca buggies, which were popular but ultimately perceived as leisure vehicles rather than serious touring cars. This realization prompted Heiderich to pivot towards creating more robust and practical models. He believed that the market deserved vehicles that could offer both performance and comfort for longer journeys.
The Hispano Alemán Castilla’s nose was reshaped to fit double headlights from the SEAT 1500, with a slightly shortened front and a sleek, stylized grille for air intake. (Picture from: Pilotos-Muertos)
Following his initial success, Heiderich launched two more models in the early 1970s: the Scirocco in 1970 and the Vizcaya in 1971. Unfortunately, the Scirocco’s production came to an abrupt halt for reasons that remain unclear, while the Vizcaya faced legal hurdles that prevented it from reaching the market. Yet, Heiderich's determination never wavered. He sought to create a car that would redefine touring performance, and this led to the conception of the Hispano Alemán Castilla, which made its debut at the 1972 Barcelona Motor Show.
The Hispano Alemán Castilla featured a chassis enhanced by Lotus visionary Colin Chapman, who refined its engine mountings and braking systems. (Picture from: EspirituRacer)
The design of the Castilla drew heavily from the Lotus Europa but incorporated many innovative features that were distinctly its own. Colin Chapman, the visionary behind Lotus, contributed to the chassis design, focusing on key aspects like engine mountings and braking systems. The Castilla was outfitted with four-disc brakes, enhancing its performance significantly. The vehicle’s exterior received several enhancements that contributed to its unique personality, including a reshaped nose that housed double headlights similar to those on the Seat 1500, and a stylized grille that lent a sleek look to the front end.
The Hispano Alemán Castilla's bodywork also underwent modifications that gave the vehicle greater personality and embellished some of its features. (Picture from: PressReader)
One of the notable features of the Castilla was its carefully considered aerodynamics. The front hood was ingeniously designed with air outlets reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz C111, while the roof was elongated towards the rear to accommodate an electrically operated sliding panel. This thoughtful design extended beyond aesthetics; it aimed to improve functionality and overall driving experience. On either side of the vehicle, Heiderich cleverly integrated two gasoline tanks, each holding 28 liters, with intakes designed for efficient air cooling.
The Hispano Alemán Castilla's front hood was slightly hollowed out and, in the middle, had air outlets in a style similar to those of the Mercedes-Benz C111. (Picture from: Lotus-Europa)
Under the hood, the Castilla was powered by a SEAT Sport Coupé 1600 engine, strategically positioned in a central, longitudinal layout. This setup delivered an impressive 110 horsepower, surpassing even the more powerful versions of the Lotus Europa. The vehicle's design ensured an exceptional weight-to-power ratio, promising exhilarating performance that was both thrilling and reliable. Additionally, the Castilla featured a five-speed Porsche gearbox, a premium component that underscored the car’s high-end aspirations, though it added significantly to the vehicle's overall cost.
The Hispano Alemán Castilla's design ensured an exceptional weight-to-power ratio, promising exhilarating performance that was both thrilling and reliable. (Picture from: Pilotos-Muertos)
Despite its promising features and performance, the Castilla faced significant challenges in the form of homologation issues, which ultimately stymied its production. Collaborations with SEAT aimed to launch the vehicle under a dual brand—Lotus-SEAT Castilla—but these plans never materialized due to regulatory hurdles. Sadly, Heiderich's dreams of introducing the Castilla to a wider audience were dashed, and the vehicle remained a prototype.
The Hispano Alemán Castilla's roof was lengthened towards the rear in order to have a sliding area that would be operated electrically. (Picture from: EspirituRacer)
As the automotive landscape evolved, so did the fate of Hispano Alemán. By 1979, the company had ceased all car production, marking the end of an era for a brand that had aspired to leave its mark on the touring car segment. Although Hispano Alemán is no longer active, the spirit of innovation and the quest for performance embodied in models like the Castilla continue to resonate with car enthusiasts today.
Under the hood, the Hispano Alemán Castilla was powered by a SEAT Sport Coupé 1600 engine, strategically positioned in a central, longitudinal layout. (Picture from: Lotus-Europa)
Performance Reborn - In the world of automotive passion, innovation often finds its roots in nostalgia. For decades, the Lancia Delta has been celebrated as a symbol of engineering excellence and rally heritage, sparking the imagination of car enthusiasts worldwide. Among these admirers is Grassi Scuderia, a Milan-based company, who has taken inspiration from this iconic model to create a masterpiece of its own—the Grassi 044S.
The Grassi 044S pays tribute to the legendary 1985 Lancia Delta S4 Stradale while offering a modern twist, with its design crafted by Giuseppe Armano, a former Alfa Romeo designer. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Unveiled at the 2023 Milano Monza Motor Show (MiMo), the Grassi 044S pays tribute to the legendary 1985 Lancia Delta S4 Stradale while offering a modern twist. This limited-production vehicle will see only 44 units built, each meticulously crafted to merge classic aesthetics with cutting-edge performance. The design, entrusted to Giuseppe Armano, a former Alfa Romeo designer, stays true to the Delta's essence. Round headlights, a Lancia-inspired grille, and pronounced side intakes evoke nostalgia, while wider fenders and enhanced aerodynamics bring the car firmly into the modern era.
The Grassi 044S stays true to the Delta's essence, featuring round headlights, a Lancia-inspired grille, and pronounced side intakes that evoke nostalgia. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Adding to the allure, the 044S is equipped with bespoke 19-inch alloy wheels that nod to the Delta Integrale Evoluzione. The quad tailpipes and sleek proportions further emphasize its unique character. Measuring 4,180 mm in length, 2,000 mm in width, and 1,267 mm in height, the car offers a slightly more dynamic stance compared to its predecessor.
The Grassi 044S is equipped with bespoke 19-inch alloy wheels that nod to the Delta Integrale Evoluzione. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Performance is at the heart of the Grassi 044S. Its rear-mounted 3.0-liter biturbo four-cylinder engine delivers an astonishing 640 horsepower, ensuring thrilling acceleration and speed. This Euro-5 compliant engine works in harmony with a 6-speed manual or sequential gearbox, a sophisticated 4WD system, and three differentials. These elements allow the 044S to achieve a remarkable 0-100 km/h sprint in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h.
The Grassi 044S features distinctive quad tailpipes and sleek, well-balanced proportions, which further highlight its bold and unique character. (Picture from: Carscoops)
The inspiration behind the Grassi 044S is as much about preserving automotive heritage as it is about pushing boundaries. With an estimated weight of 1,100-1,200 kg, the car achieves an enviable power-to-weight ratio of 1.69 kg/PS, showcasing an impressive blend of agility and strength. Despite being presented as a static model during its debut, the potential for production units to deliver this performance on the road is highly anticipated.
While the Grassi 044S honors its roots, it also challenges the status quo, proving that passion and innovation can revive even the most revered designs. For fans of the Lancia Delta, this car serves as a powerful reminder of its legacy and a beacon of what could come. As GrassiScuderia sets the stage for a new era of automotive art, enthusiasts worldwide are left wondering what other legends might be reborn in such breathtaking fashion. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GRASSISCUDERIA | CARSCOOPS | TOPGEAR | ]
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The Extinct - In the world of automotive design, some unique creations are destined to capture imaginations even if they remain elusive to the public. Among these, the Ford Taurus SHO Intercoast GTP is a standout, a car that exemplifies innovation and ambition, yet slipped into obscurity not long after its creation. Though the 1990s were full of experimental vehicles, few concepts have as intriguing a story as this tandem-seat supercar. Designed by Mel Francis, a visionary car builder from California, this car was meant to be a fusion of high-speed performance and practical efficiency—a combination that felt far ahead of its time.
The Ford Taurus SHO Intercoast GTP was a wild tandem-seat concept, built by Californian Mel Francis in 1993 and scrapped four years later. (Picture from: Carakoom)
The Ford Taurus SHO Intercoast GTP first took shape in 1992, a period when tandem seating was an experimental feature in car design. While other models, like Mazda’s E-Go Concept, Yamaha’s OX99-11, and Rinspeed's E-Go Rocket, played with similar configurations, the Intercoast GTP uniquely brought this design into the American market. Francis envisioned a streamlined, transcontinental “road cruiser” with tandem seating that positioned the driver at the center of the car, with room for a passenger directly behind—a bold departure from traditional seating arrangements. Inspired partly by the Ford Taurus SHO (SHO stand for Super High Output), a popular sports sedan, this concept car was set to blend comfort and sporty aesthetics in an innovative way.
The Ford Taurus SHO Intercoast GTP embodies Mel Francis's vision of a streamlined transcontinental "road cruiser" with center-positioned tandem seating for the driver and a passenger directly behind.(Picture from: Carakoom)
At its core, the Intercoast GTP borrowed heavily from the 1992 Ford Taurus SHO, utilizing its mechanical elements while reconfiguring them for the mid-engine layout within a custom-built steel tube spaceframe chassis. Francis aimed to transform the Taurus SHO’s sedan qualities into something radically different. The car’s structure positioned the driver in the center, similar to the configuration found later in the famous McLaren F1. This unusual setup created a cockpit-focused driving experience, which was intended to improve aerodynamics and provide a more engaging connection to the road. Meanwhile, a full-size trunk allowed ample space for long journeys, aligning with Francis’s vision of a practical, cross-country cruiser.
The Ford Taurus SHO Intercoast GTP featured a sleek, futuristic design with likely “gull-wing” doors that enhanced its supercar appeal. (Picture from: Carakoom)
In terms of design, the Intercoast GTP was sleek and futuristic, featuring what was likely a “gull-wing” door mechanism, adding to its supercar appeal. The car was intended to offer better fuel efficiency than other supercars of the time, thanks to its narrow greenhouse and aerodynamic body. This low-drag profile was a key part of Francis’s vision, designed to enable long, fuel-efficient drives across highways without compromising on style or performance. The Taurus SHO’s 3.0-liter V6 engine was likely adapted to this prototype, capable of delivering 220 horsepower—enough for exhilarating highway speeds.
One
of the most distinctive features of the Ford Taurus SHO Intercoast GTP was its
motorbike-inspired tandem seating, with the driver seated centrally and a
second seat directly behind. (Picture from: Carakoom)
Despite its promise, the Intercoast GTP never made it beyond its concept phase. Francis’s workshop was eventually closed in 1997, and the unique supercar was dismantled, with its parts reportedly repurposed for other projects. It’s thought that the car was simply too advanced for its era, a vehicle that perhaps couldn’t find the necessary investors to bring it into production. The few glimpses of it that remain showcase a car that may have been built before its time, unable to attract mainstream attention or support in an industry not yet ready for such a blend of speed and practicality.
The Ford Taurus SHO Intercoast GTP was intended to offer better fuel efficiency than other supercars of the time, thanks to its narrow greenhouse and aerodynamic body. (Picture from: Carakoom)
The legacy of the Ford Taurus SHO Intercoast GTP is a fascinating chapter in automotive history, underscoring the potential of innovative design in car manufacturing. Though only a single prototype was ever produced, its story continues to intrigue automotive enthusiasts who see in it a concept that dared to break conventions. This long-forgotten prototype remains a testament to the boldness of ideas that sometimes get lost in the fast-paced world of car design, leaving us to wonder what could have been if the Intercoast GTP had found its way to the open road. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MEL FRANCIS IN FLICKR| ITS SHO TIME| FORDAUTHORITY | ROADANDTRACK | AUTOYAHOO | 9GAG | CARAKOOM | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC | HEARTBOOMCARS ]
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Alfa Romeo, a brand synonymous with Italian flair and high-performance engineering, played a notable role in this era’s design evolution. Known for its dynamic sports cars and sleek coupes, Alfa Romeo represented a lineage of racing spirit blended with sophisticated design. However, as the 1980s arrived, the brand's sporty image was occasionally subdued under corporate decisions by Alfa and its later parent company, Fiat. Alfa enthusiasts and independent designers, however, were unwilling to let go of the brand’s sporty DNA. As a result, two Alfa Romeo-based prototypes—the Zeta 6 Zagato and Bertone Delfino—debuted at the 1983 Geneva Motor Show, exemplifying efforts to rekindle the brand’s sporting heritage and charm.
The Zeta 6 Zagato concept, crafted by the distinguished Giuseppe Mittino at Zagato, was a sleek, compact two-seater coupe. Called the AZ6 Sperimentale, this car bore Zagato’s distinctive style, merging Alfa’s sporty allure with Italian craftsmanship. On the other hand, Bertone’s Alfa Romeo Delfino concept, a unique creation led by designer Marc Deschamps, took a different path. Unlike Zagato’s proposal, which embraced Alfa’s performance-oriented image, the Delfino aimed to capture the essence of refined elegance within a futuristic coupe.
Through the Delfino, Bertone demonstrated a masterful balance between tradition and innovation. The car’s aesthetic language captured the essence of Alfa Romeo’s sporty soul while presenting it in a form that was strikingly modern. This design approach made the Delfino a symbol of Bertone’s enduring influence in automotive design, standing as a tribute to Italian craftsmanship and vision. Though the Delfino never reached mass production, it remains a testament to a period in automotive history where creativity and passion led the industry toward bold new directions.*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DRIVENTOWRITE | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CARDESIGNNEWS | STORY-CARS ]
