📢Maestro Works💰 - One such visionary who made a significant mark in this field is Giovanni Michelotti. Renowned globally, Michelotti’s contributions have spanned numerous automotive brands, showcasing his ability to transform concepts into reality. After founding Michelotti Studio in 1959, his designs left an indelible imprint on the industry, spanning everything from sports cars to trucks.
The Michelotti Clas, introduced in 1986, was a forward-thinking light sports car built with Toyota MR2 components and powered by a 1600cc engine. (Picture from: Carrozzeria-Italiani)
Michelotti’s legacy includes many prototypes, one of the most intriguing being the Michelotti Clas, introduced in 1986. This prototype was a forward-thinking light sports car built using components from the Toyota MR2, powered by a 1600cc engine. The design featured both front and rear baggage compartments, offering surprising storage space for a vehicle of its size. Additionally, there was a space behind the seats, accommodating rear passengers in emergencies, although this was only practical if the driver was shorter than 5'6".
This
prototype not only highlights Michelotti’s technical skill but also his
ability to foresee and adapt to future trends in automotive design. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Clas stood out with its unique cooling system, integrating scoops into the C-pillar to cool the engine efficiently. Its headlights were positioned high on the nose, a distinct design choice. Inside, the Clas maintained a more subdued aesthetic. The seats were upholstered in wool, providing a cozy feel, while the center console borrowed parts from the Toyota MR2 and switches from Lancia models. The dashboard, finished in tweed cloth, contributed to a warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by analog instruments placed strategically behind the steering wheel.
The Michelotti Clas's design featured both front and rear baggage compartments, offering surprising storage space for a vehicle of its size. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Michelotti's approach to design was both innovative and practical, blending style with functionality. His ability to utilize existing components in new ways demonstrated his resourcefulness and vision. The Clas is a testament to his forward-thinking approach, blending performance and comfort in a compact sports car. This prototype not only highlights Michelotti’s technical skill but also his ability to foresee and adapt to future trends in automotive design.
Inside, the Clas featured a subdued aesthetic with wool-upholstered seats for a cozy feel, a center console with parts from the Toyota MR2, and switches from Lancia models. (Picture from: Carrozzeria-Italiani)
The integration of various elements from different car models into the Clas underscored Michelotti's ingenuity. By combining components from Toyota and Lancia, he created a vehicle that was both unique and practical. This fusion of ideas exemplifies the innovative spirit that has driven the automotive industry forward, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.
The
Michelotti Clas is just one example of how his designs have influenced
the evolution of car design, inspiring future generations of designers. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Reflecting on Michelotti's contributions, it becomes clear that his work has had a lasting impact. The Clas is just one example of how his designs have influenced the evolution of car design, inspiring future generations of designers. Michelotti’s legacy is a reminder of the power of creativity and the importance of daring to innovate, even when it means blending seemingly disparate elements into a cohesive whole.
The Michelotti Clas stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision and skill come together in perfect harmony. (Picture from: Carrozzeria-Italiani)
As we look to the future, Michelotti's work continues to inspire. The principles he employed in his designs – creativity, practicality, and a willingness to push boundaries – remain relevant today. His ability to envision what could be, rather than what is, sets a benchmark for aspiring designers. The Clas, with its unique blend of components and thoughtful design, serves as a symbol of Michelotti's enduring influence on the automotive world. | 2Ns7u2GlOb0 |
In the end, the story of Giovanni Michelotti and the Clas prototype is more than just a tale of automotive innovation. It is a celebration of creativity and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Michelotti's ability to turn a concept into a tangible, functional vehicle exemplifies the essence of great design. His legacy lives on, inspiring new generations to dream big and innovate boldly. The Clas stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision and skill come together in perfect harmony. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | ALLCARINDEX | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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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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ONE-OFF - The world of exotic cars is often celebrated for its blend of unique styling and cutting-edge engineering, but few examples capture this spirit as vividly as those crafted during the mid-20th century. In a fascinating era where American and Italian design philosophies intersected, European manufacturers eagerly responded to the growing demand for distinctive automobiles in the American market. This fusion of styles, known as Stile Transatlantico, produced some truly remarkable concept cars, with Alfa Romeo’s Berlina Aerodinamica Tecnica (B.A.T.) being a quintessential example of this creative era.
Today, this exceptional Abarth 209 A Coupé by Boano can be admired at the Louwman Museum in The Hague, Netherlands, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of automotive excellence. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
The allure of these exotic vehicles extends beyond their aesthetic appeal, reaching into the realm of engineering innovation. One of the standout figures from this period was Mario Felice Boano, an acclaimed designer known for his work with Carrozzeria Ghia. When Boano established his own carrozzeria in 1954, he sought to capitalize on the burgeoning American sports car market. Partnering with the renowned exhaust specialist Carlo Abarth, Boano aimed to craft an Italian machine that would cater specifically to American tastes. Their collaboration was not new; Boano and Abarth had previously worked together during Boano's tenure at Ghia.
The Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano, a standout model in this series, was built around a simple yet effective boxed pressed-steel platform chassis. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
A particularly rare and intriguing creation from this collaboration was a series of cars built on the Fiat 1100 platform. Commissioned by Tony Pompeo, a New York-based distributor for Abarth and other Italian brands, this series consisted of twelve unique vehicles tailored for the American market. It included ten Abarth 207A Spyders, which were specifically designed for the 12 Hours of Sebring, as well as one each of the Abarth 208A Spyder and 209A Coupé intended for road use.
Inside the car, the driver enjoys a comfortable cockpit with an easy-to-read dashboard featuring a speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge, complemented by adjustable bucket seats for maximum support during high-performance driving. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
Each shared the same basic lines penned for Boano by Giovanni Michelotti. The 208A and 209A were unveiled at the 1955 Turin Motor Show, where they were displayed alongside the 207A, which had been introduced earlier that year. This showcase highlighted the exceptional design and engineering prowess of Boano and Abarth.
The Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano, powered by a modified Fiat 1100 four-cylinder engine, saw its output boosted from 36 to 66 horsepower through Abarth's tuning. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
The Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano, a standout model in this series, was built around a simple yet effective boxed pressed-steel platform chassis. While this chassis might not have been the most advanced of its time, it provided the flexibility needed to accommodate a variety of body styles. The 209A Coupé was particularly notable for its exotic design features, including high wheel arches, retractable headlights, a sporty stainless steel exhaust pipe on the right, and panoramic windows.
The
Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano was particularly notable for its exotic
design features, including high wheel arches, retractable headlights, a
sporty stainless steel exhaust pipe on the right, and panoramic windows. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
Underneath its striking exterior, the Abarth 209A Coupé housed a modified version of the Fiat 1100’s four-cylinder engine. Abarth's tuning boosted the engine's output from a modest 36 horsepower to a more robust 66 horsepower. Despite these enhancements, the car's wheelbase, length, and width remained consistent with its Spyder counterparts, while its height and curb weight were slightly increased to accommodate the coupe’s distinctive design elements. Today, this exceptional vehicle can be admired at the Louwman Museum in The Hague, Netherlands, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of automotive excellence. | E8UIK_ygV3U |
In reflecting on the legacy of these remarkable cars, it's clear that their creation was not merely about blending styles but about pushing the boundaries of automotive design. The partnership between Boano and Abarth stands as a testament to innovation and a deep understanding of the market's desires, showcasing how American and Italian influences can come together to create something truly extraordinary. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LOUWMANMUSEUM | COACHBUILD | ULTIMATECARPAGE | ROARONGTON | AUTOMOBILECATALOG ]
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ONE-OFF - The end of World War II in 1945 marked the beginning of a new chapter for the automotive industry. Factories, which had been dedicated to wartime production, shifted their focus back to creating vehicles for civilian use. This shift spurred significant advancements in both engineering and design, transforming the automotive landscape and fostering innovation and creativity globally.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano featured striking rear tailfins and bright, two-tone paint schemes, capturing the spirit of the 1950s American dream. (Picture from: RMSothebys)
In post-war America, the car market thrived with vibrant and dynamic designs. Influenced by the Space Race, cars of the era featured striking rear tailfins that resembled rockets and airplanes, with each year bringing more elaborate designs. The bright, two-tone paint schemes captured the spirit of the 1950s American dream, showcased by iconic models from Chevrolet, Pontiac, Cadillac, and Ford.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano designed by Giovanni Michelotti for Carrozzeria Boano, was crafted to appeal to the American market with its stylish looks. (Picture from: Carscoops)
European car manufacturers, eager to enter the American market, began creating unique concept cars with bold, space-age designs. This fusion of American and Italian styling became known as Stile Transatlantico, with Alfa Romeo’s Berlina Aerodinamica Tecnica (B.A.T.) cars being prime examples of this innovative approach.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano’s lightweight chassis and precise handling made it a true driver’s machine. (Picture from: Auto.cz)
Abarth, an automotive company founded in 1949, was keen to make a name for itself both in Italy and internationally. Embracing the Stile Transatlantico, Abarth in collaboration with Boano created a series of distinctive cars. Among them were the racing-oriented 207 ASpyder, the road-going208 A Spyder, and the 209 A Coupé. The 207 A had a limited production run of ten units, while the 208 A and 209 Awere unique one-offs. These cars were showcased at the 1955 Turin Motor Show, underscoring Boano and Abarth’s design and engineering prowess.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano features a unique custom exhaust header mounted on the right side of the car.(Picture from: Auto.cz)
The Abarth 208 A Spyder, designed by Giovanni Michelotti for Carrozzeria Boano, was crafted to appeal to the American market with its stylish looks. However, beneath its sleek exterior, the car retained a distinctly Italian character. It featured a lightweight chassis and a small yet powerful engine. Much of its mechanical components were derived from the Fiat 1100, including the suspension and a 1,089 cc four-cylinder engine. With Abarth’s tuning kit, which included twin-Weber carburetors and a custom exhaust header, the engine produced 66 bhp.
The Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano’s cabin features a three-spoke steering wheel, a dashboard with a set of gauges, and two seats covered in genuine black and creamy white leather, with the gear-shift lever positioned above a divider.(Picture from: Voi.id)
The 208 A Spyder found its way to the United States, imported by Tony Pompeo, a New York-based distributor for Abarth and other Italian brands. After the Turin Motor Show in 1955, it was purchased by the Du Pont brothers, heirs to a chemical fortune and avid motor racing enthusiasts, who later passed it on to a friend. The car remained unused for over 30 years until Etceterini collector Elad Shraga acquired it in 2009. Found in remarkably original condition, it underwent minor repairs to preserve its originality, with the mechanical components restored to make it roadworthy.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano is powered by a 1,089 cc four-cylinder engine enhanced with Abarth’s tuning kit, including twin-Weber carburetors, producing 66 bhp. (Picture from: Voi.id)
The Abarth 208 A Spyder was displayed only once at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in 2013. Despite its rarity and historical significance, it remained a private treasure until it was sold to its current owner. Recently, the car received a bare-metal repaint in its original colors in Italy, supervised by Corrado Lopresto, costing over €30,000. This restoration was done to concours-level conditions, solidifying the car’s status as an icon of Stile Transatlantico and a significant piece of Abarth’s early history.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder’s status as an icon of Stile Transatlantico and a significant piece of Abarth’s early history. (Picture from: Voi.id)
The Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano represents a remarkable blend of American and Italian design influences from the post-war era. According to Barnfinds in May 2024, the Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano was listed among the cars auctioned privately by RM Sotheby's, with an asking price of €795,000.
Its unique history and exceptional originality make it a valuable addition to any collection, admired for its innovative design and rich heritage. As it continues to capture the imagination of automotive enthusiasts worldwide, this rare gem is poised for a future as bright as its past. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RMSOTHEBYS | CARSCOOPS | AUTO.CZ | POSTWARCLASSIC | BARNFINDS | MODERNCARCOLLECTOR | THEMUSEUMOFCARS ]
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It's been a great pleasure being with you on this journey.
Thank you.
Extinct Gems - In the vibrant world of automotive history, Italy stands as a stalwart producer of exquisite cars, thanks to its lineage of renowned carriage makers. Names like Pininfarina, Boano, Ghia, Bertone, and Vignale have graced the automotive scene with atypical versions that stand apart from the offerings of major manufacturers. This rich heritage has given rise to a plethora of unique models in the Italian market, showcasing a blend of artistry and engineering prowess.
The Michelotti Boudot Conrero Coupe represents a fusion of French-Italian craftsmanship and ingenuity, and crafted through a collaboration between Giovanni Michelotti, Virgilio Conrero (who created the engine), and Roger Boudot (chassis elements) in 1962. (Picture from: LiveJournal)
Unique ONES - Lancia, the iconic Italian brand with a storied history in the world of racing, is set for a remarkable rebirth in the coming years. The revival plan not only includes the eagerly anticipated Lancia New Ypsilon slated for a 2024 release but also brings back the flagship Gamma and potentially transforms the classic Lancia Delta into a crossover – a move bound to stir emotions among ardent Lancia enthusiasts.
The Lancia Mizar Concept born from the skilled hands of renowned designer Giovanni Michelloti, made its debut at the 1974 Turin Motor Show. (Picture from: Pinterest)
At the heart of Stellantis group's vision for Lancia lies a commitment to style and elegance, aiming to breathe new life into a brand that has left an indelible mark on automotive history. The designers tasked with shaping Lancia's future draw inspiration not only from contemporary trends but also from the brand's rich past, harking back to iconic models like the Stratos and the Flaminia. However, in this journey of rediscovery, an obscure gem from the 1970s, the Lancia Mizar Concept, emerges as a potential source of inspiration.
The Lancia Mizar Concept's design showcased a distinctive grille, elevated ground clearance reminiscent of modern crossovers, and an expansive glass area. (Picture from: OldConceptCars)
The Lancia Mizar, born from the skilled hands of renowned designer Giovanni Michelotti, made its debut at the 1974 Turin Motor Show. Based on the Beta 1800 platform, this concept car not only astonished onlookers with its unconventional lines but also provided inspiration for other unique models, including the one-off Lancia Beta Felber FF. Michelotti's design showcased a distinctive grille, elevated ground clearance reminiscent of modern crossovers, and an expansive glass area.
The Lancia Mizar Concept not only astonished onlookers with its unconventional lines but also provided inspiration for other unique models, including the one-off Lancia Beta Felber FF. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
Safety and passenger comfort took precedence in the Mizar's design. Boasting four separate gull-wing doors for easy access, the Lancia Mizar prioritized both style and functionality. The exterior, painted in a light orchid hue, aimed to capture attention on the road, making a bold statement wherever it went.
The Lancia Mizar Concept featuring particularly the four vertically opening gull-wing doors – a design element typically associated with the sportiest cars, including the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300SL. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
Michelotti's genius is evident in the Mizar's unconventional features, particularly the four vertically opening gull-wing doors – a design element typically associated with the sportiest cars, including the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300SL. Inside, a spacious and well-finished cabin welcomed passengers with beige and purple upholstery, featuring four comfortable seats derived from the Beta model. The minimalist dashboard housed essential controls, including the radio and heating, along with convenient storage compartments.
The Lancia Mizar Concept's peculiar aspect was the absence of seat belts, a reflection of the era's lax safety regulations, and only dedication to both aesthetics and functionality. (Picture from: OldConceptCars)
A peculiar aspect of the Lancia Mizar prototype was the absence of seat belts, a reflection of the era's lax safety regulations. This decision aimed to preserve the interior's elegant design, showcasing Michelotti's dedication to both aesthetics and functionality. | _n9RztdDkWA |
The Lancia Mizar Concept remains a testament to Michelotti's design prowess and serves as an intriguing piece in the mosaic of Lancia's illustrious history. (Picture from: PlanetCarsz)
While details about the Mizar's engine remain scarce, it is likely that it utilized a powerplant derived from the Beta. Despite the prototype never making it to production, the Lancia Mizar remains a testament to Michelotti's design prowess and serves as an intriguing piece in the mosaic of Lancia's illustrious history.
In the end, the story of Giovanni Michelotti and the Clas prototype is more than just a tale of automotive innovation. It is a celebration of creativity and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Michelotti's ability to turn a concept into a tangible, functional vehicle exemplifies the essence of great design. His legacy lives on, inspiring new generations to dream big and innovate boldly. The Clas stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision and skill come together in perfect harmony. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | ALLCARINDEX | CARSTYLING.RU ]
