Custom Classics: The Iconic 1960s Cadillac DeVille as a Pickup

Unique ONES - For all you aficionados of vintage American automobiles, the 1960s Cadillac DeVille needs no introduction. This classic symbol of luxury boasts an iconic presence, characterized by its colossal body and distinctive 'fins' adorning the rear end. It was, without a doubt, one of the most coveted vehicles of the swinging 60s.

The 1960s Cadillac DeVille is a classic symbol of luxury boasts an iconic presence, characterized by its colossal body and distinctive 'fins' adorning the rear end. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

The Cadillac DeVille came in both sedan and convertible body styles, available in two or four-door configurations, and it graced the automotive scene for a staggering eight generations, spanning from 1958 to 2005. However, our focus today lies on the second-generation Cadillac DeVille produced in 1961, a vehicle that stands apart due to its unique transformation into a pickup truck, a remarkable modification that saw the light of day in 2015.

This second-generation Cadillac DeVille of 1961 was a vehicle that stands apart due to its unique transformation into a pickup truck. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

According to the seller, this is not your typical "show-off" car but rather a product of painstaking customization – a testament to the 'build, not buy' ethos. Some might even refer to it as a 'labor of love.' This distinctive blue Cadillac DeVille pickup underwent its metamorphosis back in the 1970s and was subsequently utilized by a diligent salesman as his trusty workhorse, ferrying products around town day in and day out.

The conversion of a 1961 Cadillac DeVille into a pickup has preserved its unique interior. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

As we examine this remarkable creation, it becomes evident that it has been lovingly maintained over the years, both in terms of its exterior and interior. While some signs of wear are visible in certain areas, and the paint has started to show signs of aging, it has retained much of its original charm. During its time on the market, this unique Cadillac DeVille pickup was listed for a modest sum of $12,000, roughly equivalent to Rp. 175 million, and it had accumulated a mileage of 94,555 miles (152,171 km) on the odometer.

The conversion of a 1961 Cadillac DeVille into a pickup has preserved its unique interior. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Beneath the hood, this Cadillac pickup conceals a potent 390 cubic inch V8 engine, boasting a substantial 6.4-liter capacity, which churns out an impressive 345 horsepower. This robust powerplant is seamlessly mated to a Turbo 400 automatic transmission, delivering a smooth and effortless driving experience. The pickup also comes equipped with a trailer hitch, a Kenwood radio-tape stereo system, a tonneau cover to protect your cargo, and, last but not least, the iconic Cadillac hood ornament that never fails to make a statement.

This distinctive blue Cadillac DeVille pickup underwent its metamorphosis back in the 1970s and was subsequently utilized by a diligent salesman as his trusty workhorse, ferrying products around town day in and day out. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

The transformation of the 1961 Cadillac DeVille into a pickup is a testament to the enduring allure of classic American automobiles. This unique vehicle, with its storied history as a workhorse, embodies a blend of nostalgia and practicality that is hard to come by in today's automotive landscape. Whether you're a collector, an enthusiast, or someone with a penchant for one-of-a-kind automobiles, this Cadillac pickup offers a captivating glimpse into the ingenuity and creativity that have long been associated with the world of custom vehicles.

Apologies, no video available for the custom DeVille Pickup; enjoy a video about the Cadillac Coupe DeVille instead.

In conclusion, this 1961 Cadillac DeVille pickup is not just a vehicle; it's a piece of automotive history that has been lovingly preserved and modified over the years. Its distinctive appearance and remarkable backstory make it a truly unique find for anyone with an appreciation for classic cars. So, if you're in the market for a piece of Americana that's both stylish and practical, this Cadillac DeVille pickup might just be the perfect choice for you. Don't miss the opportunity to own a piece of the past that's sure to turn heads wherever you go. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JALOPYJOURNAL ]

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Sneak Peek: Honda's Electric Innovations Shine at Japan Mobility Show 2023

EV Lines - The 2023 Japan Mobility Show, formerly known as the Tokyo Motor Show, is set to open its doors to the public from October 28, 2023, through November 5, 2023. During this highly anticipated event, Honda, a prominent name in the world of automotive manufacturing, will unveil a range of its latest electric vehicle innovations. 

Honda unveils a range of its latest electric vehicle innovations summarized in its entirety as the Honda Dream Loop concept. (Picture from: Honda)

Among these, the mysterious Specialty Sports Concept, the Honda SC e:Concept electric motorcycle, the sustainable small hatchback named Sustaina-C, and the CI-MEV, a heavy quadricycle primed for autonomy, will take center stage. As reported by ArenaEV, details about the Specialty Sports Concept have been closely guarded. 

Here's a sketch reminiscent of the NSX style within the "Honda Dream Loop" illustration hints at what could be in store. (Picture from: ArenaEV)

Nevertheless, a sketch reminiscent of the NSX style within the "Honda Dream Loop" illustration hints at what could be in store. While it's confirmed to be an all-electric concept, precise specifications and performance figures are yet to be unveiled, leaving automotive enthusiasts in eager anticipation.

The Honda SC e:Concept electric scooter draws power from two Honda Mobile Power Pack e: batteries, which are designed for quick and convenient swapping. (Picture from: GridOto)

Prior to its official unveiling, Honda released a digital rendering of the Honda SC e:Concept, offering enthusiasts a glimpse of its striking futuristic design characterized by sleek curves and minimalist aesthetics. The electric motorcycle is accentuated by vivid neon green accents, signifying its advanced technology and eco-friendliness.

The versatile Honda Mobile Power Pack e:, underscoring their dedication to advancing electric mobility solutions. (Picture from: GridOto)

While comprehensive specifications are still under wraps, it's known that the SC e:Concept draws power from two Honda Mobile Power Pack e: batteries, which are designed for quick and convenient swapping. This innovative approach eliminates the need for prolonged charging, underscoring Honda's commitment to electric mobility. Additionally, Honda will showcase other electric products utilizing the versatile Honda Mobile Power Pack e:, underscoring their dedication to advancing electric mobility solutions.

The Honda SUSTAINA-C Concept vehicle takes the form of a recyclable and reusable acrylic resin car, with a boxier appearance compared to the Honda e. (Picture from: ArenaEV)

Moving on to the Honda SUSTAINA-C Concept, this electric vehicle takes the form of a recyclable and reusable acrylic resin car. In terms of design, it represents an evolutionary step, with a boxier appearance compared to the Honda e.

The Pocket Concept is a compact electric two-wheeler designed with a futuristic aesthetic, catering to environmentally conscious urban commuters. (Picture from: ArenaEV)

The vehicle's body is crafted from recycled acrylic resin, aligning with Honda's sustainability goals. A similar material is employed in the Pocket Concept, a compact electric two-wheeler designed with a futuristic aesthetic, catering to environmentally conscious urban commuters.

The Honda CI-MEV is a fully electric two-seater urban car combining "Cooperative Intelligence" and autonomous capabilities. (Picture from: ArenaEV)

Meanwhile, the Honda CI-MEV is a fully electric two-seater urban car combining "Cooperative Intelligence" and autonomous capabilities. It serves as a long-distance solution for individuals with limited mobility, potentially competing with microcars and heavy quadricycles. Honda's product lineup also includes a prototype for a light commercial electric vehicle and the Honda Autonomous Work Vehicle, an experimental platform featuring various equipment.

The Honda Uni-One seated mobility device using balance control. (Picture from: id.Motor1)

Beyond vehicles, Honda showcased a range of other intriguing products, including a mockup of the interior of the HondaJet Elite II small business jet, a scale model of the exterior of a Honda eVTOL aircraft, a gas turbine hybrid system, an "alter-ego" robot named Avatar, and a Uni-One seated mobility device featuring balance control.

An in-shoe navigation device called Ashirase to help blind people better navigate the world around them. (Picture from: id.Motor1)

With this diverse and innovative product portfolio, Honda makes a resounding statement at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show. The company isn't solely pushing the boundaries of automotive design but also venturing into new territories of mobility, sustainability, and interactive technology.

The production fate of these concepts remains uncertain, but they offer a tantalizing glimpse into a future where driving transcends mere transportation, becoming an exhilarating, sustainable, and individualized experience. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HONDA | ARENAEV | ID.MOTOR1 ]

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Moto Guzzi Autoveicolo Da Montagna: A Ride Through Time

Weird ONES - When it comes to three-wheeled vehicles known for their exceptional capabilities, most enthusiasts think of the Can-Am Spyder or Polaris Slingshot. However, there's a hidden gem that not only competes with these icons but also boasts the ability to conquer rugged and challenging terrains like mountains. If you're someone who yearns for adventures in the wild and seeks a reliable companion for navigating the roughest of terrains, look no further than the Moto Guzzi three-wheeled vehicle.

Moto Guzzi Autoveicolo Da Montagna was beast among bikes. (Picture from: MyCoolBin)

This remarkable vehicle features a unique design and a distinctive function – its wheels are equipped with specially designed iron chains, transforming it into a true "go-anywhere" vehicle capable of tackling all conditions. It's no wonder it earned the nickname Autoveicolo Da Montagna, which translates to "mountain car." In fact, during the 1960s, it was even utilized as a military vehicle by the Italian Army.

Left side view of Moto Guzzi Autoveicolo Da Montagna. (Picture from: MyCoolBin)

While the Autoveicolo Da Montagna undoubtedly boasts impressive performance, certain factors led to its production coming to a halt. Tragically, a series of accidents during its operation resulted in the loss of several soldiers' lives, prompting the Italian government to cease production in 1963.

The fundamental idea behind this vehicle's development was surprisingly simple yet innovative: to create a vehicle capable of replacing traditional wheels with "Alpini legs," allowing it to conquer rugged plateau lands with ease.

Right side view of Moto Guzzi Autoveicolo Da Montagna. (Picture from: MyCoolBin)

One of these exceptional machines is now preserved in The Motorworld by V. Sheyanov, a renowned Russian museum dedicated to restored military motorcycles. This particular Autoveicolo Da Montagna was acquired from an automotive collector in Rimini and underwent an intricate restoration process, masterminded by the talented Constantino Frontalini, who also established his own museum showcasing a variety of rare motorcycles.

Front view of Moto Guzzi Autoveicolo Da Montagna. (Picture from: MyCoolBin)

The original machine was powered by a single-cylinder 500 cc engine, which was later upgraded and paired with the 3X2 Motocarro Militare. As time went on, this engine was replaced with a more robust 750cc V7 Carcano engine.

Under this configuration, the three-wheeled wonder displayed an astonishing capability to conquer steep 31-degree inclines. The restoration process was no walk in the park, spanning approximately six months, mainly due to the challenge of locating all the accessories specific to the 1960s Moto Guzzi 3-Wheel motorcycle.

Rear side view of Moto Guzzi Autoveicolo Da Montagna. (Picture from: MyCoolBin)

In conclusion, the Moto Guzzi three-wheeled vehicle, known as the Autoveicolo Da Montagna, stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity. Its unique design, equipped with iron chains on its wheels, enables it to traverse the most challenging terrains, making it a versatile and rugged companion for those who crave adventure in the wild. 

Despite its impressive performance, tragic accidents during its military service led to its production being discontinued. Today, it is a rare gem, showcased in museums like The Motorworld by V. Sheyanov, a testament to its enduring legacy in the world of military motorcycles.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA [25122015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MYCOOLBIN ]

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Cadillac Die Valkyrie: A Luxurious Blast from the Past

Elegance - In the post-World War II era, the automotive industry witnessed a surge in custom creations and daring designs, often conceived as visionary concepts. These innovative designs pushed the boundaries of traditional automotive aesthetics and embraced the wild imaginations of their customers. Among these exceptional creations, the Cadillac Die Valkyrie stands out as an embodiment of timeless elegance and classical luxury, a car that seamlessly melded the opulence of the past with modern performance.

1953 Cadillac Die Valkyrie concept car. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The inception of the Cadillac Die Valkyrie can be attributed to the vision of Cleveland real estate magnate Metzenbaum in the early 1950s. Metzenbaum yearned for a vehicle that could encapsulate luxury, performance, and contemporary appeal while evoking the spirit of the 1940s. To transform this dream into reality, he enlisted the expertise of the renowned industrial designer, Brooks Stevens, based in Milwaukee.

The 1956 Cadillac Die Valkyrie being loaded for its trans-Atlantic trip. (Picture from: OldCarsWeekly)

Under the creative guidance of Brooks Stevens, the Cadillac Die Valkyrie began to take shape in the automotive landscape of the time. The foundation of this luxurious masterpiece was laid on a 125-inch platform. The conventional Cadillac body was discarded in favor of a new design, characterized by a four-seat convertible configuration with a retractable solid roof panel.

Left side view of 1953 Cadillac Die Valkyrie concept car. (Picture from: OldCarsWeekly)

Chrome embellishments adorned various parts of the Die Valkyrie's body, adding to its luxurious aura. However, the most distinctive and eye-catching feature of the car was its bumper and grille combination, ingeniously crafted in the shape of a bold 'V.' This design element offered a tantalizing hint at the powerhouse lurking beneath the hood.

Interior view of 1953 Cadillac Die Valkyrie concept car. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Further enhancing the vehicle's aesthetic appeal were the single headlamps flanking each side of the hood, neatly dividing the chrome accents that flowed from the bumper to the vehicle's sides. The coachwork of the Die Valkyrie was entrusted to Spohn Works, a prestigious coachbuilder based in Ravensburg, Germany.

The 1953 Cadillac Die Valkyrie powered by a 5.4-liter dual-quad OHV V8 engine capable of producing around 270 horsepower. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

The grand unveiling of the Cadillac Die Valkyrie took place at the prestigious Paris Auto Show of 1953. In the subsequent months, this automotive marvel continued to captivate audiences and create a buzz at various exhibitions and automotive events. However, despite the initial plans to produce a hundred units, the project faced financial setbacks, leading to the unfortunate realization that only six units of the Cadillac Die Valkyrie would ever be manufactured.

Right side view of 1953 Cadillac Die Valkyrie concept car. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

It is believed that only three of these extraordinary cars found their way to the United States. The vehicle showcased here, bearing the number two, once graced the roads under the ownership of Mrs. Stevens. Today, you can catch a glimpse of this automotive masterpiece at the Brooks Stevens Museum, located in the suburban enclave of Mequon, Wisconsin, just north of Milwaukee.

The Cadillac Die Valkyrie remains a testament to the audacity of automotive design and the pursuit of luxury and performance excellence. It stands as a timeless reminder of an era when creativity knew no bounds and dreams were transformed into extraordinary four-wheeled works of art. The Die Valkyrie, with its blend of classic charm and modern prowess, continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike, showcasing the enduring allure of automotive innovation. *** [EKA [19112015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CONCEPTCARZ | OLDCARSWEEKLY | OTOBLITZ ]

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True American Classic Scooters: Pioneering Designs and Icons

American-MADE - Motor scooters, a unique blend of motorcycle and kick scooter features, have a distinct charm that sets them apart in the world of two-wheeled transportation. With a comfortable seat, a flat floorboard, and compact wheels, they offer a convenient and efficient way to navigate city streets and open roads alike. 

What new marvel of creativity did they (in pictured 1948 Salsbury Model 85 scooters) bring to the world that just now is really getting some use? (Picture from: SouthbayRiders)

Billy Gibbons: Cruising in Style with CadZZilla

ONE-OFF - When it comes to car enthusiasts, Billy Gibbons is a name that resonates with the automotive elite. Known for his musical prowess as a member of ZZ Top, Gibbons also boasts a remarkable collection of extraordinary cars that have been custom-built to his exacting specifications.

Billy Gibbons CadZZilla built in 1988 by renowned car builder Boyd Coddington and the visionary design of Larry Ericson with a staggering cost of approximately $900,000 at the time. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)