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Showing posts with label Sportscar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sportscar. Show all posts

Monday, November 18, 2024

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)

Sunday, November 17, 2024

Colani Blue Car: A Design in Search of Its Identity

Maestro WORKSLuigi '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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Saturday, November 16, 2024

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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Friday, November 15, 2024

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 Heidericha 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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Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Laura: The Enduring Soviet Sports Car Journeying Through Time

Forgotten ONES - In the world of automotive history, certain cars manage to capture our attention not just because of their performance, but because of the stories behind their creation. One such car is the Soviet-era 'Laura'. While Soviet automobiles were mostly known for their practical, sometimes uninspiring and boring designs, the Laura broke away from the norm, offering a glimpse into what might have been if innovation had taken center stage in Russia’s automotive industry. This story is a tale of passion, ambition, and a dream to create something that could stand alongside global competitors.
The first iteration of the Laura prototype, a sports car that defied the limitations of Soviet engineering and aimed for something exceptional, was created by Dmitry Parfenov and Gennady Hainov in 1985. (Picture from: RussiaBeyond)

Monday, November 11, 2024

Zoragy: Serbia’s Hidden Supercar Pioneer

⚠️Hidden ONES📢 - In the world of automotive innovation, few names evoke the sense of passion and creativity as strongly as Zoragy Studio. Established in Ljig, Serbia, Zoragy Studio has been pushing the boundaries of automotive design and engineering since its informal inception in 1982. The visionaries behind this pioneering company are Zoran Radivojević, a graduate civil engineer, and Ivan Obradović, a graduate industrial design engineer. Together, they have embarked on a journey that has seen Zoragy evolve from humble beginnings into a name synonymous with cutting-edge supercars.
This striking light blue Zoragy Roadster was featured in the music video 'Playa's Only' from R. Kelly's 2005 album, Reloaded. (Picture from: Depo.ba)
Zoran's interest
in automotive design began during his student years when he started working on prototype vehicles fueled by nothing more than love for the craft and the limited funds of a student’s budget. His first major project, completed in 1985, was a Buggy body prototype. This early endeavor laid the groundwork for what would become a lifelong pursuit of automotive excellence. Zoragy Studio’s evolution from these initial projects to the present day is a testament to the dedication and vision of its founders.
The international debut of the first Zoragy Roadster prototype, built on the turbocharged Toyota MR-2, took place at the 2005 Detroit Motor Show. (Picture from: Zoragy)
One of the most significant milestones in Zoragy’s history occurred in 2005 when the studio unveiled its first prototype at the Detroit Motor Show. This two-seater, based on the turbocharged Toyota MR-2, was the result of two years of painstaking work by Zoran and his colleagues
The cabin of the first Zoragy Roadster prototype is equipped with advanced features and a luxurious interior wrapped in tan and blue genuine leather. (Picture from: Zoragy)
The vehicle's design was so well-received that it earned Zoragy Studio first place in a competition for hand-made cars, marking the studio’s entry into the global automotive scene. The success of this project also led to the addition of Ivan Obradović to the Zoragy team, further strengthening the studio’s design capabilities.
The 2007 Zoragy B092 Coupe, designed for the American market, was based on the Chevrolet Camaro and powered by a 400 hp engine. (Picture from: Zoragy)
Zoragy’s reputation continued to grow, particularly after one of its vehicles was featured in a music video by the American artist R. Kelly back in 2005. The car, a striking light blue roadster, appeared alongside luxury brands such as Mercedes, Ferrari, and Rolls-Royce, yet it stood out for its unique design and presence. This appearance in the video not only brought international attention to Zoragy but also sparked widespread discussions among car enthusiasts, further cementing the studio’s reputation as a creator of extraordinary vehicles.
The 2007 Zoragy B092 Coupe designed for the local Serbian market, was based on the Toyota Supra, with engines ranging from 240 to 330 hp. (Picture from: Zoragy)
Following this success, Zoragy Studio continued to produce innovative vehicles, including a coupe version for the American market in 2007. This model was based on the Chevrolet Camaro and was powered by a 400 hp engine. For the Serbian market, the studio offered versions based on the Toyota Supra, with engines ranging from 240 to 330 hp. Zoragy’s use of composite materials, glass, and plastic in their construction demonstrated the studio’s commitment to lightweight, durable designs that performed at the highest levels.
Today, Zoragy Studio is focused on its latest ambitious project: the Zoragy E+. This 2-seater hybrid supercar is built on the Honda NSX platform and combines the power of a gasoline V6 engine with the efficiency of an electric motor. The Zoragy E+ is a reflection of the studio’s ongoing commitment to innovation, blending traditional automotive engineering with modern hybrid technology. The car’s impressive performance, including an acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.3 seconds, positions it as a formidable contender in the supercar market.
The 2011 Zoragy E+ Concept is a 2-seater hybrid supercar built on the Honda NSX platform, combining a gasoline V6 engine with an electric motor for enhanced efficiency. (Picture from: Zoragy)
Despite the challenges faced along the way, including significant financial constraints, Zoragy Studio remains a beacon of creativity and innovation in the automotive world. The founders, Zoran and Ivan, continue to seek investment to bring their latest creations to life, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to their craft. Zoragy’s journey from a small, informal workshop to an internationally recognized name is a story of perseverance, talent, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. |  |
As Zoragy Studio moves forward, the automotive world eagerly awaits the next chapter in its remarkable story. The legacy of Zoragy is one of innovation and passion, a legacy that will undoubtedly continue to inspire and excite for many years to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZORAGY IN FACEBOOK  | DEPO.BA | AUTO-MAGAZIN | DANUBIUS.FORUMSR ]
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Sunday, November 10, 2024

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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