Lotus Esprit: A Timeless Icon on Wheels

The Legends - Embark on a nostalgic journey through automotive history as we explore the timeless allure of the Lotus Esprit, a classic sports car that has left an indelible mark on the roads and in the hearts of enthusiasts. 

Lotus Esprit Series-1 or S1 produced during 1976 to 1978. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

This masterpiece, crafted by the esteemed British manufacturer Lotus Cars, represents an era when automotive excellence took center stage, before the company shifted gears towards pioneering electric vehicles like the remarkable Lotus Evija.

In 'The Spy Who Loved Me,' witness the 1977 Lotus Esprit S1 'Wet Nellie' seamlessly transition into 'submarine' mode, showcasing its versatility and sophistication. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

The Lotus Esprit, a symbol of past automotive glory, captured attention not only for its on-road prowess but also for its cinematic escapades. Immortalized as a submersible wonder in a James Bond film titled 'The Spy Who Loved Me,' this iconic vehicle seamlessly blended thrill and sophistication.

Lotus Esprit Series-2 or S2 produced during 1978 to 1980. (Picture from: EncyCarPedia)

Tracing its roots back to Project M70, a visionary proposal by Tony Rudd, the Lotus Esprit emerged as the torchbearer following the footsteps of the Lotus Elite. Crafted with precision at the Lotus Cars factory in Hethel, England, this rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car commanded attention from 1976 to 2004. Alongside companions like the Lotus Elise and Exige, it stands tall as a testament to the enduring legacy of Lotus. 

Lotus Esprit S2-2 produced during 1980 to 1981. (Picture from: EncyCarPedia)

In the realm of design, the Lotus Esprit pioneered the evolution of sports car aesthetics. The sleek and angular "folded paper" design, attributed to the renowned Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, not only propelled the Esprit to fame but also lent its versatile backbone chassis to support the DeLorean car.

Lotus Esprit Series-3 or S3 produced during 1981 to 1986. (Picture from: EncyCarPedia)

Updates in 1978 birthed the series 2 and 2.2 L engined Esprit S2.2, paving the way for the 1982–1988 Series 3 and Turbo Esprit models, distinguished by Giugiaro's 1980 aerodynamic and aesthetic restyling package.

Lotus Esprit produced during 1987 to 1990. (Picture from: EncyCarPedia)

Transitioning gracefully into the 1990s and beyond, the Lotus Esprit underwent a transformative phase under the guidance of designer Peter Stevens, celebrated for his work on the McLaren F1. Fondly referred to as the 'Stevens Esprit' or the X180, this iteration retained the car's legacy from 1988 to 1994.

Lotus Esprit X180 produced during 1988 to 1994. (Picture from: TheClassicValuer)

In 1994, designer Julian Thomson introduced the Esprit Series-4, characterized by a more rounded shape, particularly in the bumper sections and lower body. This refined aesthetic endured as the most iconic form of the Esprit, lasting from 1994 to 2004, with final touches by Russell Carr in 2002.

Lotus Esprit Series-4 or S4 produced during 1994 to 2004. (Picture from: Supercars.net)

The Esprit's performance witnessed a steady evolution, with the 4-cylinder engine's power surging from around 150 PS to double those figures. This feat was achieved through enhanced inlet and exhaust flow, coupled with robust turbocharging. 

Lotus Esprit S4S produced during 1995 to 1996. (Picture from: FastestLaps)

A pivotal moment arrived in 1996 with the introduction of a new 3.5 L V8 twin-turbo engine, boasting an impressive 355 PS. Setting itself apart from other British sports cars, the Esprit proudly housed a Lotus in-house designed V8. Notably, the top speed surged from 214 km/h in 1976 to over 280 km/h for the V8, two decades later.

Lotus Esprit V8 produced during 2002 to 2004. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

As a testament to its enduring legacy, the Esprit remained in production for an impressive 28 years, marking the era of pop-up headlights alongside the 5th generation Chevrolet Corvette. This retrospective journey, from inception to the twilight of production, solidifies the Lotus Esprit's status as a true icon in the realm of sports cars. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LOTUSCARS | WIKIPEDIA | ID.MOTOR1 | THECLASSICVALUER | SUPERCARS.NET ]

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9 Jaw-Dropping Motorcycles with Unique Designs: Prepare to be Amazed!

Unique Designs - Creating unique and appealing motorcycle designs is no easy feat. It requires striking a delicate balance between functionality and aesthetics to satisfy the expectations of enthusiasts and buyers alike. 

While motorcycles hold a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts, occasionally, manufacturers miss the mark, and the following image serving for illustrative purposes only. (Pictures from: YankoDesign)

Unfortunately, some manufacturers miss the mark and produce bikes with designs that leave us scratching our heads. Let's take a closer look at nine motorcycles with truly bizarre and unconventional designs.

1. The Odd Seat Design

Take the Suzuki Madura, for example. At first glance, it appears relatively normal, but upon closer inspection, you'll notice something peculiar about the seat. Instead of the usual elongated shape, it narrows down, forming an awkward curve intended to serve as a backrest. However, this design flaw results in discomfort for passengers, with limited space to sit comfortably.

1984 Suzuki Madura, known for its peculiar seat design. (Picture from: IDNTimes)

2. Big is Not Always Better

The Victory Vision challenges the notion that bigger is better. Despite its imposing size, the seat design leaves much to be desired, offering little room for passengers. One can't help but wonder why such a large bike fails to provide adequate seating space.

Are big motorcycles always a good choice? The 2007 Victory Vision challenges that notion entirely! (Picture from: IDNTimes)

3. Comic Imagination Gone Awry

Yamaha's attempt to stand out with the RoadLiner backfired, resembling more of a failed comic illustration than a cutting-edge motorcycle design. With its uncanny resemblance to a certain caped crusader's sidekick's ride, it's hard to take this bike seriously.

This 2009 Yamaha Roadliner resembles a comic book flop on wheels. (Picture from: IDNTimes)

4. Cool Colors, Uncool Design

KTM's 690 Duke may excel in performance, but its design leaves much to be desired. The vibrant orange-black color scheme intended to exude coolness ends up being an assault on the eyes, failing to complement the bike's sleek form.

The 2015 KTM 690 Duke's 'overly cool' color scheme might just hurt your eyes. (Picture from: IDNTimes)

5. More Robot Than Motorcycle

Ducati Multistrada 1100S ventures into the realm of sci-fi with its robotic appearance. This bike seems like it's trying too hard to impress, overshadowing its functionality with an overly bulky frame and a disproportionately small seat.

Is the 2007 Ducati Multistrada 1100S a motorcycle or a robot in disguise? (Picture from: IDNTimes)

6. Strange Tail, Strange Ride

Honda Valkyrie Rune's attempt to stand out with its unique tail shape falls flat. While its powerful engine promises high-speed thrills, the odd curvature of the tail raises doubts about its practicality and passenger comfort.

The 2004 Honda Valkyrie Rune, sporting an unusual tail shape. (Picture from: IDNTimes)

7. Toy-Like Appearance

The Harley Davidson Road Glide Ultra resembles a blown-up version of a child's toy motorcycle. Its oversized front section and awkward seating arrangement make maneuvering this behemoth a daunting task, leaving passengers struggling to find a comfortable spot.

The 2017 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra resembles a toy motorcycle. (Picture from: IDNTimes)

8. Plastic Fantastic

Honda Pacific Coast (PC800) takes the concept of a touring motorcycle to a bizarre extreme. Covered almost entirely in plastic, it looks more like a toy than a serious mode of transportation, failing to live up to expectations despite its comfort on long journeys.

The 2015 Honda Pacific Coast (PC800) looks akin to a plastic toy motorcycle. (Picture from: IDNTimes)

9. The Epitome of Weirdness

Harley Davidson Topper takes the prize for the weirdest motorcycle design ever made. With its hybrid electric scooter/bicycle appearance, it defies categorization and leaves onlookers perplexed.

The 1962 Harley Davidson Topper takes the title for the weirdest motorcycle design ever created. (Picture from: IDNTimes)

In conclusion, while these motorcycles may have aimed for uniqueness, they ultimately missed the mark, leaving us questioning the designers' choices. Can you think of any other motorcycles with equally strange designs? The world of motorcycle design is vast and full of surprises, so who knows what peculiar creations the future holds?

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 [11092017] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | IDN TIMES] | YANKODESIGN ]

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Dobbertin's Odyssey: Surface Orbiter's Epic Tale of Land and Sea

Remarkable ONES - In the realm of unique and extraordinary vehicles, the Dobbertin Surface Orbiter stands out as a testament to innovation and determination. While we previously explored Colani's Sea Ranger, it's now time to delve into the fascinating world of the Dobbertin Surface Orbiter, a remarkable creation that emerged from the transformation of a humble milk tanker back in the 1990s.

The Dobbertin Surface Orbiter amphibious vehicle crafted in the 1990s by Rick and Karen Dobbertin from a humble 1959 Heil stainless steel milk tanker. (Picture from: Diseno-Art)

Originating from the vision and hard work of Rick and Karen Dobbertin, hailing from Syracuse, New York, the Surface Orbiter underwent a remarkable metamorphosis over four and a half years, involving a staggering 14,000 hours of dedication. What started as a conventional milk tanker evolved into a groundbreaking all-terrain amphibious vehicle, poised to circumnavigate the globe without the need for support vehicles.

The Dobbertin Surface Orbiter amphibious vehicle underwent a remarkable metamorphosis over four and a half years, involving a staggering 14,000 hours of dedication (Picture from: Diseno-Art)

Despite facing challenges such as limited funding, the Surface Orbiter demonstrated its capabilities through extensive testing and travels. Clocking over 33,000 miles on land and an impressive 3,000 miles by water, navigating open seas with waves towering up to 18 feet (5.4 meters), this vehicle etched its mark in unconventional exploration. Notably, it became the inaugural amphibious vehicle to conquer the entire length of the Panama Canal in February 23, 1995.

The Dobbertin Surface Orbiter's steering system: the right wheel for highway driving and the left for navigating waterways. (Picture from: Diseno-Art)

The sheer scale of the Dobbertin Surface Orbiter's construction is awe-inspiring, especially considering it was a solo endeavor. Crafted from a 1959 Heil stainless steel milk tanker, the vehicle measures 32.5 feet (10m) in length, 7.5 feet (2.3m) in width, and stands tall at 10.5 feet (3.2m). The body incorporates 2.5 inches of Styrofoam insulation between its double walls, ensuring durability and buoyancy.

Enhanced crew life support within the Dobbertin Surface Orbiter's cabin, featuring a complete kitchen with microwave and refrigerator, a portable toilet and sleeping quarters for two. (Picture from: Diseno-Art)

Equipped with a robust 250 hp 6.5-liter V8 engine, the Surface Orbiter can carry 340 gallons (1,287 liters) of diesel, facilitating extended journeys. For the crew's sustenance, it also features a 40-gallon (151 liters) capacity for drinking water. On land, it achieves a commendable top speed of 70 mph, while in the water, it gracefully cruises at 11 mph.

The Dobbertin Surface Orbiter became the inaugural amphibious vehicle to conquer the entire length of the Panama Canal in February 23, 1995. (Picture from: Diseno-Art)

The array of sophisticated equipment onboard the Dobbertin Surface Orbiter adds to its allure. A GPS system with a 24-mile range radar, multiple radio systems, auto-inflating life raft, dual steering wheels, and marine cruise control contribute to the vehicle's autonomy and functionality. These features align with the needs of an independent world traveler, emphasizing the Surface Orbiter's readiness for diverse environments.

In retrospect, the Dobbertin Surface Orbiter emerges not only as a mechanical marvel but also as a symbol of unwavering determination and the pursuit of unconventional exploration. Its journey, though constrained by financial limitations, echoes the spirit of pushing boundaries and venturing into the unknown. The Surface Orbiter, with its unique blend of land and water capabilities, remains an indelible mark in the annals of vehicular innovation and adventure. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SYRACUSE | DISENO-ART | WIKIPEDIA | DRIVINGLANE ]

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Drive in Style: Bvlgari's Luxury Hypercar Hits Gran Turismo

Virtual Beauty - It's a pleasure to delve into the realm of virtual racing once again, exploring the fantastical world of cars crafted exclusively for the exhilarating races within the Gran Turismo gaming universe on Sony Playstation. After the debut of the Ferrari Vision Gran Turismo in late 2022, stepping into the virtual racing scene is the distinguished brand, Bvlgari, known for its expertise in jewelry, luxury watches, and other essential products.

Sony and Polyphony Digital have unveiled a collaboration with the Italian luxury brand Bulgari with the Bulgari Aluminium Vision Gran Turismo concept car coming to Gran Turismo 7 in 2024. (Picture from: Gran-Turismo)

In collaboration with Polyphony Digital Inc., the brains behind the Gran Turismo game series, Bvlgari presented two exclusive Bvlgari Aluminum x Gran Turismo chronographs and the groundbreaking Bvlgari Aluminum Vision GT virtual car. This collaboration seamlessly merges the domains of horology and virtual racing.

The Bvlgari Aluminum Vision GT, constructed with aluminum bodywork in a sleek, roofless design, exudes a remarkably realistic presence. (Picture from: Gran-Turismo)

The partnership marks the celebration of the 25th anniversary of Bvlgari's sporty Aluminum watch and the 10th anniversary of the Vision GT program. This initiative opened the doors for leading automakers worldwide to contribute to the development of virtual racing cars for video games. 

The Bvlgari Aluminum Vision GT virtual racer marks the premiere of a hypercar meticulously crafted for Gran Turismo racing by the distinguished brand, breaking new ground beyond the automotive world, following in the footsteps of renowned sports apparel brand Nike.

Within the cockpit, a seamless fusion of colors and materials unfolds—aluminum, black rubber, anthracite Alcantara, and lively yellow accents, complemented by a dashboard featuring the distinctive yellow dial from the new Aluminum chronograph.. (Picture from: Gran-Turismo)

This virtual race car boasts a strikingly realistic appearance and feel in the digital realm, with the real-life model making its debut at the Gran Turismo World Series Finals in Barcelona from December 1-3, 2023. The design and materials employed in the Vision GT concept car mirror the distinctive aesthetics of the Bvlgari Aluminum x Gran Turismo Special Edition watches.

The Bvlgari Aluminum Vision GT powered by a center-mounted inline four-cylinder engine with a rev capacity exceeding 9,500 rpm. (Picture from: Gran-Turismo)

Crafted from aluminum for the bodywork with a low, roofless design, carbon for the lower body and technical components, and black rubber safeguarding exposed areas, this hypercar exemplifies meticulous attention to detail. Inside the cockpit, a harmonious blend of colors and materials, including aluminum, black rubber, anthracite Alcantara, and vibrant yellow accents, create a captivating visual spectacle. The dashboard mirrors the yellow dial found on the new Aluminum chronograph.

The virtual two-seater racing car, featuring a removable rear wing that extends backward, is reportedly propelled by a center-mounted inline four-cylinder engine with a rev capacity exceeding 9,500 rpm. Generating 394 bhp and weighing precisely 1,000 kg for a 619.47 PP in-game, the Aluminum Vision GT car in Gran Turismo 7 delivers a visceral experience with the unmistakable roar of its engine, equipped with robust sports tires. Negotiating the circuit, players can sense the challenge of maneuvering through seven gears with considerable braking distances, often encountering understeer.

As of now, enthusiasts can exclusively acquire Bvlgari's virtual racing car by purchasing the brand special timepiece, accompanied by a digital redemption code. This offer is currently available, although there's no confirmation yet regarding its potential availability for all players in the future. Here's hoping for a wider release to make this extraordinary virtual racing experience accessible to all. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GRAN-TURISMO | BVLGARI | GTPLANET | TECHRAPTOR ]

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This one-off Ferrari species is not a myth, but just very rarely seen

Rare GEMS - In the realm of captivating automotive concepts, Ferrari has a rich history of producing remarkable designs that often translate into popular models. However, one intriguing creation that didn't quite attain widespread fame is the Ferrari Mythos. Similar to the Testarossa from which it drew inspiration, the Mythos remains a rare breed in the prancing horse lineage, a creation brought to life by the renowned Pininfarina.

1989 Ferrari Mythos built atop a Testarossa platform and designed by Pinifarina. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

Unveiled to the public at the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show, the Mythos stood atop the Ferrari Testarossa platform. The interior boasted two meticulously sculpted leather seats, offering unparalleled comfort for a two-seater barchetta. Contemplating various styles, including coupe, targa, and speedster, the latter ultimately gained approval.

Left side view of 1989 Ferrari Mythos. (Picture from: A2GOOS)

Beneath its sleek exterior, the Mythos housed a formidable 390 horsepower 4.9-liter Tipo F113B flat-12 engine coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission system. Diverging from the "red-head" it shared its chassis with, the Mythos presented a more compact silhouette, sitting almost five inches wider, six inches shorter, and three inches lower in overall height—an embodiment of a truly compact supercar.

Rear right side view of 1989 Ferrari Mythos. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The concept embraced a fully-rounded sculptural design, skillfully balancing aesthetic allure and technical precision, in alignment with Pininfarina's philosophy of pursuing beauty, accentuated by the charismatic prancing horse emblem.

Noteworthy is the concept's connection to racing cars, evident in the absence of a hard roof for passenger protection and the omission of side windows. At the rear, the light cluster band spanned from side to side, with a wing-spoiler above, functioning as an extension of the side surfaces. The spoiler, supported by a central telescopic mechanism, could be elevated by 300 mm, adapting to speed and enhancing the downforce effect in an undisturbed airflow zone. Crafted from carbon fiber, the bonnets, doors, and all body panels exemplified lightweight construction, while the instrument panel, dashboard, door panels, and seats featured leather-covered shells.

The existence of the Ferrari Mythos Coupe is so enigmatic that many skeptics question if it was truly commissioned for the Sultan of Brunei. (Picture from: Blog.Hobbydb)

Now, you might be wondering about the current whereabouts of these extraordinary cars. According to Wikipedia, Ferrari produced a total of three Mythos units in 1989, including the prototype. Notably, the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, commissioned two Mythos—one in red and the other in turquoise. Unfortunately, the specific cars in the Sultan's collection remain unclear due to the absence of comprehensive records.

To this day, the Mythos Coupe stands as one of Ferrari's most exclusive models, contributing to its rarity on the streets of both America and Europe. Perhaps it's this exclusivity that shrouds the Mythos in a mystique, making it a seldom-seen gem in the world of high-performance automobiles.. *** [EKA [12072019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR1 | WIKIPEDIA | CONCEPTCARZ | BLOG.HOBBYDB ]

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Beyond the 50s: Ford X-2000 Concept's Time-Defying Comeback

OLD But NEW - In the vibrant 1950s, American magazines brimmed with illustrations depicting futuristic cars and space vehicles envisioned for the late 20th century. During this era, automotive manufacturers engaged in a fierce competition to transform these visionary designs into tangible, awe-inspiring vehicles, showcasing them at prestigious car shows.

1958 Ford X-2000 concept car. (Picture from: OldCarConcepts)

Among these ambitious concepts was the Ford X-2000, a distinctive creation conceived by the minds of Bill Balla and Alex Tremulis in 1958. Notably, Tremulis had gained acclaim for his involvement in the iconic Tucker automobile style. Although the Ford X-2000 progressed from sketches to scale models, it never materialized into a production-ready vehicle.

Front three-quarter of the 1958 Ford X-2000 concept car. (Picture from: OldCarConcepts)

One of the most striking features of the Ford X-2000 was its unconventional front end, a departure from the norms of 1958 automotive design. The grille and hood drew inspiration from the 1957 Ford Edsel, a vehicle notorious for causing significant financial losses to its parent company due to escalating production costs.

Front view of the 1958 Ford X-2000 concept car. (Picture from: OldCarConcepts)

The exterior design of the X-2000 raised eyebrows, with the vertical oval motifs earning it nicknames like "egg on the horns," "horse collars," and even "collision rings." These monikers, often sarcastic and bordering on rudeness, reflected the public's mixed reception to the avant-garde design.

Interior view of the 1958 Ford X-2000 concept car. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Despite the controversy surrounding its appearance, the interior of the concept car resembled the futuristic vehicles featured in sci-fi series like The Jetsons. The rear, in particular, sported the iconic 'yank tank' characteristic of 1950s cars, complemented by Rocket-style taillights.

Left side view of the 1958 Ford X-2000 concept car. (Picture from: OldCarConcepts)

Initially confined to the realm of scale models, the Ford X-2000 found renewed interest in 1994 when British automotive enthusiast Andy Saunders discovered it in the book "Dream Cars" (JR Picard, 1981). Undeterred by the challenges, Saunders embarked on the seemingly impossible mission to bring this dream car to life, basing his creation on the 1962 Mercury. Recalling his expertise in resurrecting distinct automobiles, including the 1957 Aurora Safety Car, 1984 Citroën Indecision 2, and numerous others.

The outcome was nothing short of extraordinary, capturing the attention of classic car enthusiasts and the automotive media alike. The Ford X-2000 Concept, crafted by Andy Saunders, became a star attraction at numerous automotive exhibitions, captivating audiences with its blend of retro-futuristic design and meticulous craftsmanship. *** [EKA [25112019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ANDI SAUNDERS | OLDCARCONCEPTS]

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