Mysteriuos Breeds - For decades, the idea of a four-door Ferrari seemed inconceivable. The legendary brand was synonymous with sleek sports coupes and roadsters, steadfastly sticking to its roots, largely due to Enzo Ferrari's aversion to straying from this tradition. However, with the introduction of the Purosangue, Ferrari's first SUV, the landscape has shifted.
The elegant and clean lines of the Ferrari Pinin were designed by Diego Ottina under the direction of Pininfarina’s head of design, Leonardo Fioravanti. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
Yet, this isn’t Ferrari's first venture into the four-door territory. Nearly four decades before the SUV’s debut, Ferrari, in collaboration with Carrozzeria Pininfarina, attempted to create a four-door sedan, famously known as the Ferrari Pinin Concept, was unveiled in 1980 at the Salone Internazionale dell'Automobile Torino, or Turin Motor Show, to celebrate Pininfarina’s 50th anniversary. The concept also made an appearance at the Los Angeles Auto Show that same year.
The Ferrari Pinin was unveiled in 1980 at the Salone Internazionale dell'Automobile Torino, or Turin Motor Show, to celebrate Pininfarina’s 50th anniversary. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
Initially, it was conceived as a design study, a vehicle without an engine or drivetrain, but it showcased several revolutionary design elements and aerodynamic features. Leonardo Fioravanti was responsible for the Pinin's design, working with Diego Ottina, who created the initial silhouette. The most striking feature was its flush glazing. Years before Audi introduced its sleek 100 saloon with a drag coefficient of 0.30, the Pinin achieved a Cd of about 0.35.
The Ferrari Pinin's grille was flanked by 'Homofocal' headlights developed by Lucas, featuring multi-reflectors for brighter illumination. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
The heavily tinted glass disguised the pillars, creating the illusion of a continuous sheet of glass around the car, achieved by bonding the glass to black-painted pillars. This design, while visually impressive, had the flaw of non-opening windows. The windscreen wipers were hidden behind a retractable flap at the base, and the door handles were flush, concealed within a recessed belt line along the body.
The Ferrari Pinin’s dimensions were impressive, with an axle distance of 108.7 inches, comparable to the Mercedes-Benz 280 sedan. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
The grille was flanked by 'Homofocal' headlights developed by Lucas, featuring multi-reflectors for brighter illumination. Unlike traditional headlamps, the Pinin's lower, sleeker lights produced more light, eliminating the need for pop-up lights to achieve a low bonnet line. The Carello-made rear lamps, known as High Contrast illumination, were much brighter than usual. When not lit, they blended seamlessly with the body color, making them almost invisible.
The heavily tinted glass disguised the pillars, creating the illusion of a continuous sheet of glass around the car, achieved by bonding the glass to black-painted pillars. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
Inside, the Ferrari Pinin boasted luxurious Connolly leather upholstery and a computerized control system that seemed straight out of a science fiction film from that era. The car’s dimensions were impressive, with an axle distance of 108.7 inches, comparable to the Mercedes-Benz 280 sedan, providing ample legroom and comfort for passengers.
The Ferrari Pinin Concept may not be red, but the all-Ferrari attitude remains, even with four doors. (Picture from: Roarington)
Despite Enzo Ferrari’s initial consideration of the Pinin as a production model, it was never realized. The extensive funding and development required to transition the Pinin from prototype to production proved insurmountable. Ultimately, Ferrari’s executives decided against it, leaving the Pinin as a one-off concept that would eventually join a private collection.
The Ferrari Pinin's interior boasts opulent Connolly leather upholstery and an advanced computerized control system, reminiscent of a science fiction film from that era. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
There was speculation that Fiat, which owns Ferrari, might produce the Pinin. However, Fiat chose to focus on smaller, more affordable models like the Fiat Uno. Consequently, the Pinin concept was shelved, deemed unprofitable. It remained in the Pininfarina Museum Collection until 1993, when it was purchased by Belgian collector Jacques Swaters, a Ferrari brand importer and the man behind Ecurie Francorchamps.
The Ferrari Pinin's two rear seats underline the sporting nature of the car that demanded that each occupant was sat firmly in place. (Picture from: Roarington)
In 2008, the Ferrari Pinin found a new owner, Gabrielle Candrini, the manager of Maranello Purosangue, a purveyor of some of the world's finest historic Ferraris, based near the Ferrari factory. Under the guidance of Ferrari expert Ing. Mauro Forghieri, Candrini restored the Pinin to full operational status.
The Ferrari Pinin as it looks today after the engineer Mauro Forghieri transformed it into a running vehicle by mounting an authentic 12-cylinder engine of the 512BB. (Picture from: Below-The-Radar)
The restoration included equipping the car with a 5.0-liter flat-12 engine, identical to those in the Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer and Testarossa of the same era, and a 400GT gearbox. The suspension and braking systems were also upgraded. Now, the Ferrari Pinin can perform like any regular car, boasting up to 360 horsepower.
The Ferrari Pinin features a very classic rear, that doesn’t push the stylistic boundaries of the brand, but remains highly functional. (Picture from: Roarington)
The Ferrari Pinin has since graced various prestigious automotive events, including the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed and the Concours of Trieste. It has also been displayed at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, celebrated as 'The Great Ferrari of Sergio Pininfarina'. After remaining unsold at several auctions from 2010 to 2011, the Pinin finally returned to Maranello Purosangue. It was then sold to a US-based enthusiast, who, it is hoped, now uses it at least occasionally, although the car seems to have disappeared from public view. | 3prbrwISZa8 |
This unique piece of automotive history reflects Ferrari’s willingness to explore new frontiers while honoring its heritage. The Ferrari Pinin Concept, though never mass-produced, continues to captivate car enthusiasts and stands as a remarkable chapter in Ferrari’s storied legacy. The car symbolizes both the brand's innovative spirit and its commitment to excellence, ensuring that Ferrari remains at the forefront of automotive design and performance. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARBUZZ | ROARINGTON | CARTHROTTLE | BELOW-THE-RADAR | WEIRDWHEELS ]
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Weird ONES - Curiosity immediately sparked when we first encountered the unique classic vehicle from the 1930s, reputed to be the first streamlined car produced by a manufacturer from Czechoslovakia. This intriguing vehicle is the 1931 Wikov 35 Kapka, an experimental car with only six units ever produced by Wichterle & Kovářik (WiKov), a Czechoslovakian agricultural machinery factory in Prostějov. WiKov was active in producing agricultural machines, cars and trucks from 1925 to 1937, marking a notable chapter in automotive history.
The Wikov 35 Kapka, the first Czech streamlined car (c.1931). (Picture from: 亗 Dr. Emporio Efikz 亗)
Classic Rares - Curiosity often leads us to discover fascinating and unique automobiles, and the OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale is one such captivating find. Our initial encounter with this exceptional car happened while surfing the internet, sparking a desire to delve deeper into its history and share its story with you.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale is a remarkable piece of automotive history that traces its roots back to the Maserati brothers and Carrozzeria Vignale. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale is a remarkable piece of automotive history that traces its roots back to the Maserati brothers. The name "MT4" stands for "Maserati Tipo 4 Cilindri," highlighting the heritage and engineering prowess behind its creation. OSCA, which stands for Officine Specializzate Costruzione Automobili, was founded in 1947 by three Maserati brothers with a vision to build small, high-performance racing cars.
The
OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale features with distinctive styling elements
such as cutaway flanks, a zig-zag waistline, a crisply outlined nose,
and minimal front overhang. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Their innovative approach led them to develop engines based on Fiat’s 1092cc block, enhanced with OSCA’s own aluminum cylinder head. By 1950, they introduced a new twin-cam head, boosting the engine's power to an impressive 100 bhp. This marked the beginning of a broader range of car bodies, expanding from barchetta designs to elegant berlinettas crafted by renowned designers Frua and Vignale.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale made its debut at the 1955 Turin Motor Show, and highlighting the heritage and engineering prowess behind its creation. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The OSCA MT4 quickly became a symbol of Italian sports car excellence. The Maserati brothers, despite selling their original company and losing the right to use their name, continued to showcase their engineering talent through OSCA. One of the most stunning examples of their work was the MT4 Berlinetta Vignale, which made its debut at the 1955 Turin Motor Show. This all-alloy coupe captured the attention of its first owner, Monsieur J.C. Abreu, a French enthusiast who appreciated the car's unique design and performance.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale all-alloy coupe captured the attention of its first owner, Monsieur J.C. Abreu, a French enthusiast who appreciated the car's unique design and performance. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Only four original Berlinettas were produced by OSCA, with three featuring Vignale coachwork (chassis 1120, 1136, and 1153) and one with Frua coachwork (chassis 1113). Each car boasted exquisite details, such as rare OSCA and Vignale badging, king-size Jaeger instrumentation, the original horn button in the steering wheel, and Marchal lights. The factory even fitted the car with custom-made luggage, complete with the original keys, a plexiglass rear screen, bespoke rear lights, an alloy filler cap in the boot, and an original tool bag and kit with the chassis number stamped on it.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale features with distinctive styling elements such as cutaway flanks, a zig-zag waistline, a crisply outlined nose, and minimal front overhang. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
OSCA cars were renowned for being small, lightweight, reliable, and expensive. The MT4, in particular, was a standout model developed for both Formula Libre (F2) and sports car racing. It achieved significant success on the track, dominating its class in prestigious races like the Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, and Le Mans. One of the most notable victories came at the 12 Hours of Sebring, where an MT4 driven by Lloyd Cunningham and Stirling Moss clinched a glorious win for Cunningham's team.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale also adorned with a plexiglass rear screen, bespoke rear lights, an alloy filler cap in the boot. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Berlinetta Vignale's design was the work of the carrozzeria Michelotti, known for its distinctive styling elements such as cutaway flanks, a zig-zag waistline, a crisply outlined nose, and minimal front overhang. This particular model was commissioned by Turin chemist Mario Damonte to compete in the 1952 24 Hours of Le Mans. Unfortunately, Damonte and his co-driver Fernand Lacour retired after 19 hours due to clutch trouble. However, the following year, Damonte returned with co-driver Pierre-Louis Dreyfus, and they secured a win in the 1100 cc class.
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale also adorned with a plexiglass rear screen, bespoke rear lights, an alloy filler cap in the boot. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Ownership of this unique car passed to Maria Luisa Zamberini, another Turin resident, in 1954. The car then disappeared into a private collection from 1956 until it resurfaced in Japan in 1997, adding another layer of intrigue to its storied past, and was acquired by its previous owner in 2005. The most important aspect of this car is that it is entirely original, and has never been restored. It is a 'time warp' machine with an elegant body style and a wonderful patina. The current owner purchased the car twice - once in 2010 and again in 2016 after it was owned by OSCA collector Elad Shraga.
One of only three, the 1955 OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale with chassis number 1153. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale stands as a symbol of resilience and ingenuity, embodying the Maserati brothers' ability to overcome financial obstacles and continue producing extraordinary vehicles. Its story, from its conception by talented engineers to its victories on the race track and its journey across continents, reflects the enduring passion and creativity that drive automotive innovation.
Exploring the history of the OSCA MT4 Berlinetta Vignale has been a journey through time, showcasing the brilliance and determination of the Maserati brothers. This car not only represents a significant achievement in automotive engineering but also serves as a reminder of the spirit of innovation that continues to inspire car enthusiasts and designers around the world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CONCEPTCARZ | SUPERCARS.NET | ULTIMATECARPAGE ]
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What If - When the 1965 Mustang hit the market and set unprecedented sales records, Ford was already envisioning the future, exploring design concepts that ranged from two-seaters to the possibility of a four-door model. However, while Ford was dreaming big, a more radical idea was brewing across the Atlantic in England.
The 1965 Ford Mustang that benefited from the
Ferguson all-wheel-drive system and received early ABS brake system, sat on display at the Tampa Bay Auto Museum. (Picture from: Wikimedia)
This idea wasn't just about redesigning a car; it was about completely rethinking how a car should perform on the road. The concept came from Ferguson Research, a company that was backed by Harry Ferguson, the man behind Massey Ferguson tractors. At the heart of this innovative company were two former race drivers, Fred Dixon and Tony Rolt.
The 1965 Ford Mustang that benefited from the
Ferguson all-wheel-drive system and received early ABS brake system, looked just like any other Mustang on the outside. (Picture from: Hagerty)
They were the masterminds behind a groundbreaking four-wheel-drive (4WD) system, designed specifically for passenger cars. But their innovation didn't stop there. They also adapted Dunlop’s Maxaret anti-skid braking system, initially developed for aircraft landing gear, for automotive use. This adaptation laid the foundation for what we know today as the ABS system.
The 4WD system developed by Ferguson and installed in the 1965 Ford Mustang was a full-time system, meaning power was continuously sent to all four wheels. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Their 4WD system, known as the Ferguson Formula, wasn’t just an idea on paper. It was put to the test in 1961 with the Ferguson P99 Formula One racecar. With Stirling Moss at the wheel, the car won the Oulton Park race, proving the effectiveness of the technology. Despite this success, Ferguson Research wasn’t content with just proving their system on the track. They wanted to see it adopted by car manufacturers around the world. Ford, always on the lookout for the next big thing, took notice.
The Ferguson P99 4WD Formula 1 racing car led legendary driver Stirling Moss to victory in the non-championship Formula One Gold Cup at Oulton Park in 1961. (Picture from: FergusonClub)
In December 1964, Ford sent two identical blue Mustangs, both equipped with the A-code 289-cid V-8 engine and automatic transmission, to Ferguson in England. The plan was simple: convert one of the Mustangs to 4WD while keeping the other one in its original state for comparison. This was no ordinary conversion. The 4WD system developed by Ferguson was full-time, meaning that power was sent to all four wheels at all times. Clutches within the system allowed the car to turn smoothly, ensuring that the Mustang could handle all kinds of driving conditions with superior traction.
The
Ferguson P99 4WD Formula 1 racing car with Stirling Moss at the wheel, testing at British Grand Prix 1961. (Picture from: FergusonClub)
The Ferguson Formula system utilized a planetary center differential, which provided a 37:63 front-to-rear torque split. This clever design allowed the front and rear wheels to turn at different speeds, keeping the 4WD system engaged at all times. To accommodate this sophisticated system, the Mustang needed some modifications, including a change from coil springs to torsion bars in the front suspension.
Interior view of the 1965 Ford Mustang that benefited from the
Ferguson all-wheel-drive system and received early ABS brake system.. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Despite these changes, the Mustang looked just like any other Mustang on the outside. But when it came to handling, it was a different story. Tests at the time reported that the 4WD Mustang performed exceptionally well, especially on slippery surfaces where it outshined its two-wheel-drive counterparts. The Maxaret anti-skid braking system, although purely mechanical and not as advanced asthe electronic ABS systems that came later, played a key role in improving the car's safety and performance.
The Ferguson 4WD system installed in the 1965 Ford Mustang utilized a planetary center differential, which provided a 37:63 front-to-rear torque split.(Picture from: BringATrailer)
If this all sounds familiar, it’s because the same Ferguson Formula 4WD system later found its way into the world’s first production car with full-time 4WD: the 1966 Jensen FF. This model was an offshoot of the Jensen Interceptor luxury coupe, and the “FF” in its name stood for Ferguson Formula, a nod to the innovative technology that powered it.
The 1965 Ford Mustang was equipped with Ferguson's 4WD system, powered by an A-code 289-cid V-8 engine and an automatic transmission.(Picture from: BringATrailer)
Ford's reaction to the 4WD Mustang's performance is not fully known, but the likely reason it never made it to production was cost. Adding the 4WD system would have likely increased the price by over $500—a significant amount at the time. For context, the Mustang's most expensive engine option, the K-code high-performance 289-cid V-8, was priced at $328 and was rarely ordered. The cost likely made the 4WD option an impractical choice for mass production.
The Jensen FF, where "FF" stands for "Ferguson Formula," was the first production car to adopt the Ferguson Formula 4WD system and was produced between 1966 and 1971. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
After its brief moment in the spotlight, the 4WD Mustang prototype returned to the United Kingdom and was stored in Ferguson’s museum on the Isle of Wight until 2007. It then changed hands and found a new home at the Tampa Bay Auto Museumin 2009, where it remains a working piece of automotive history. The museum, owned by Alain Cerf, celebrates innovation in automotive design and technology. Cerf, who also runs Polypack, Inc., a company that manufactures high-tech packaging machinery, has a deep appreciation for technological advancements.
Rear three-quarter view of the 1965 Ford Mustang that benefited from the Ferguson all-wheel-drive system and received early ABS brake system. (Picture from: Wikimedia)
Among the other innovative vehicles in the Tampa Bay Auto Museum is one of the 22 English Ford Zephyr sedans that Ferguson Research converted to 4WD for testing by British police forces in the late 1960s. This collection, including the unique 4WD Mustang, stands as a testament to the forward-thinking minds that dared to push the boundaries of automotive engineering. | 3iC9eHF1Hck |
In a world where the Mustang is celebrated for its iconic design and performance, it’s fascinating to think about what could have been if Ford had chosen to embrace Ferguson’s vision. The 4WD Mustang, although never mass-produced, remains a symbol of innovation and the relentless pursuit of better performance, even if that pursuit sometimes takes us down roads less traveled. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERGUSONCLUB | TAMPA BAY AUTO MUSEUM | MUSTANGSPECS | HAGERTY | BRINGATRAILER | MOTORAUTHORITY ]
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Forgotten ONES - In the mid-20th century, the Brazilian automotive industry experienced a remarkable surge, particularly in competitive racing. The 1960s saw a fierce rivalry among brands like DKW-Vemag, Willys, and Simca on racetracks scattered across the nation. This era was synonymous with speed, but no vehicle epitomized this better than the DKW-Vermag Carcará. Named after a Brazilian endemic predatory bird, the Carcará set the Brazilian land speed record in 1966, clocking an astonishing 231 km/h.
The DKW-Vemag Carcará had set the Brazilian land speed record in 1966, clocking an astonishing 231 km/h. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)
Wild ONES - Imagine a world where car manufacturers bring the wildest, most unusual ideas to life. While this might seem far-fetched, Honda, the renowned Japanese automotive giant, has already ventured into this realm with a remarkable concept car in 1999. This extraordinary vehicle, although just a concept, showcases Honda's innovative spirit and willingness to push the boundaries of automotive design.
The Honda's Innovative Spocket Concept is a versatile marvel that can morph into a convertible, a pickup, and a sports car, all at the push of a button. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Honda's research and development entity, Honda R & D Americas, Inc., based in Torrance, transformed an audacious idea into reality. This concept vehicle, known as the Honda Spocket, is a versatile marvel that can morph into a convertible, a pickup, and a sports car, all at the push of a button. With the touch of a button, the Spocket transitions from four seats to two, and its clamshell top retracts, offering an exhilarating open-air driving experience.
Honda's research and development entity, Honda R & D Americas, Inc., based in Torrance, transformed an audacious idea into reality. This concept vehicle, known as the Honda Spocket Concept. (Picture from: Motor1)
The journey to create the Honda Spocket was a swift one, taking only eight months from design to completion. The inspiration behind this futuristic vehicle traces back to Honda’s T360 mid-engine pickup truck, the company’s first mass-produced vehicle launched in 1963. The T360 boasted a high-revving, 4-cylinder DOHC engine with four carburetors, a mid-engine layout, and a cab-over design, all contributing to its ample cargo and cabin space.
Honda's
research and development entity, Honda R & D Americas, Inc., based
in Torrance, transformed an audacious idea into reality. This concept
vehicle, known as the Honda Spocket Concept. (Picture from: Motor1)
The Spocket stands out with its angular, lightweight body, dramatic tilt-up doors, and a striking bright-red over gun-metal gray color scheme. The interior is designed to be both durable and stylish, featuring bucket seats made from weather-resistant fabrics. This ensures that the car can withstand various environmental conditions while maintaining a sleek appearance.
The Honda Spocket Concept stands out with its angular, lightweight body, dramatic tilt-up doors, and a striking bright-red over gun-metal gray color scheme. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
One of the most impressive aspects of the Honda Spocket is its advanced four-wheel-drive system. This system includes a hybrid gasoline-electric engine powering the front wheels and two in-wheel electric motors for the rear wheels, providing full-time four-wheel drive. Additionally, the vehicle boasts a semi-automatic, five-speed transmission with shift buttons conveniently located on the steering wheel.
Inside the Spocket, innovation continues with waterproof bucket seats equipped with five-point seatbelts for safety and comfort, complemented by Honda’s GPS Navigation system and electric controls to enhance the driving experience. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Inside the Spocket, the innovation continues with bucket seats equipped with five-point seatbelts, ensuring safety and comfort. The interior is completely waterproof, a testament to its versatility. Further enhancing the driving experience, the Spocket features Honda’s GPS Navigation system and electric controls. Instead of traditional side-view mirrors, the car is equipped with cameras that project rear images onto a heads-up display on the front windshield.
At the touch of a button, the Honda Spocket Concept transitions from four seats to two while its clamshell top retracts, offering an exhilarating open-air driving experience. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
The Honda Spocket is not just about sporty performance; it embodies versatility and practicality. Whether you're loading up sports gear for an adventurous day out or enjoying a leisurely drive, this concept car caters to an active lifestyle. The Spocket is a shining example of Honda's commitment to innovation, pushing the boundaries of what a vehicle can be.
The original Honda Spocket Concept is still around, and sits on display at the American Honda Museum in Torrarnce as one of Honda’s collections. (Picture from: ConceptCars)
Honda says the original Spocket concept is still around, and sits on display at the American Honda Museum in Torrarnce as one of Honda’s collections. Perhaps one day, we’ll have the opportunity to see it in person. Until then, we can only dream of what might have been. As a fast, sporty convertible capable of handling various activities, the Honda Spocket would undoubtedly be a lot of fun to drive. | lmXhPuaj4x4 |
In a world where the extraordinary often seems unattainable, the Honda Spocket reminds us that with creativity and determination, even the wildest ideas can come to life. As we look to the future, we can only imagine what other groundbreaking concepts Honda and other innovators will bring to the automotive world. The journey of the Spocket is a testament to the power of imagination and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HONDA | SUPERCARS.NET | MOTOR1 | WIKIPEDIA | CONCEPTCARS ]
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This unique piece of automotive history reflects Ferrari’s willingness to explore new frontiers while honoring its heritage. The Ferrari Pinin Concept, though never mass-produced, continues to captivate car enthusiasts and stands as a remarkable chapter in Ferrari’s storied legacy. The car symbolizes both the brand's innovative spirit and its commitment to excellence, ensuring that Ferrari remains at the forefront of automotive design and performance. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARBUZZ | ROARINGTON | CARTHROTTLE | BELOW-THE-RADAR | WEIRDWHEELS ]
