Revolutionizing Roads: The Untold Story of McLaren M12 Coupe's Pioneering Journey

ONE-OFF - In the ever-evolving realm of high-performance cars, McLaren's influence extends to being a renowned racing car maker in Formula-1 events. This, in turn, ignited the automaker's interest in crafting road-legal sports cars. Officially materializing in the early 1990s, it culminated with the launch of the McLaren F1—their inaugural production car. 

The 1969 McLaren M12 Coupe #60-14 was initially conceived as a purpose-built race car, featuring a meticulously crafted engine bay designed to house the potent Chevrolet Big Block V8. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Yet, long before this milestone, around the late 1960s, there existed a lesser-known pioneer: the McLaren M6GT. Proudly asserting itself as McLaren's first unofficial road-legal sports car, the M6GT carved out its own legacy in the brand's storied history. As we journey into the past, the McLaren M6GT, born from the M6A Can-Am car, is acknowledged as McLaren's initial venture into road-legal cars, with three units crafted in collaboration with partner Trojan Cars. 

The McLaren M12 Coupe #60-14 is an extremely rare sight, especially since original M12s were Spyders and this was converted into a coupe, in the late 1970s. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

Continuing this unofficial road car odyssey, the narrative unfolds with the introduction of the 1969 McLaren M12 Coupe—a compelling episode in the story of this esteemed British manufacturer. Derived from the M12 Can Ams, the McLaren M12 Coupe was initially conceived as a purpose-built race car, featuring a meticulously crafted engine bay designed to house the potent Chevrolet Big Block V8. 

The 1969 McLaren M12 Coupe #60-14 stands as the sole exemplar of its kind, proudly showcasing the distinctive Big Block. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

Manufactured during the 1969-70 season, approximately four of these remarkable vehicles rolled off the assembly line. While they all began as roofless sportscars, at least one underwent a transformation into a coupe. Notably, M12-specific number 60-14 stands out with the imposing presence of a Big Block Chevy V8 positioned behind the driver.

The 1969 McLaren M12 Coupe #60-14 was spent a year in Carroll Shelby's workshops, existing as a bare rolling chassis. (Picture from: Carscoops)

The untimely demise of McLaren's visionary founder, Bruce McLaren, in 1970, altered the course of automotive history. In an alternate reality, the McLaren M12 GT might have graced public roads, challenging Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche for the title of contemporary supercar supremacy.

In 1990s, a Swiss enthusiasts undertook a bold mission to make the McLaren M12 Coupe #60-14 "street legal" in France. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Following Bruce McLaren's passing, M12 #60-14 spent a year in Carroll Shelby's workshops, existing as a bare rolling chassis. One previous owner boldly labeled it the "scariest bastard" he had ever encountered. Remarkably, in the 1990s, Swiss enthusiasts undertook a bold mission to make the M12 Coupe "street legal" in France, adding another layer to its storied history.

Today, the McLaren M12 Coupe #60-14 stands as the sole exemplar of its kind, proudly showcasing the distinctive Big Block. This exceptional vehicle has graced numerous concours events and served as a display car at the McLaren factory for several months—a living testament to its enduring allure and historical significance. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSCOOPS | SUPERCARWORLD | CARBUZZ | WIKIPEDIA ]

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Vintage Bel Air Unleashes Monstrous Power: A Retro Revival!

Fierce CLASSIC - Meet the 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Two-Ten Sport Coupe, a timeless classic once showcased by RK Motors Charlotte among their collection of automotive treasures. This iconic beauty has undergone a meticulous transformation, elevating its exterior, interior, and powerhouse to new heights. 

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Two-Ten Sport Coupe. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

The Chevrolet Two-Ten Sport Coupe now boasts a striking green candy tone on the front, seamlessly transitioning to white on the rear and roof. Retaining its vintage charm, the car features spherical lights and mirrors, preserving the authenticity with original bumpers and chrome accents.

Step inside, and you'll find the cabin adorned with a suede ceiling and leather upholstery, creating an elegant and comfortable atmosphere. The interior is enhanced with unique details, including dice lock knobs, stainless cup holders, ambient green lighting, a TCI shifter, and meticulously stitched mats. Despite its age, this classic beauty comes equipped with a Pioneer audio system for a modern touch.

Right side view of 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 210 Sport Coupe. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

Beneath the hood lies the heart of the Chevrolet Two-Ten Sport Coupe—a robust 8,800 cc V8 engine capable of unleashing a staggering 1,000 horsepower. This powerhouse is seamlessly paired with a Turbo-Hydramatic 400 3-speed automatic transmission system, ensuring a smooth and powerful driving experience.

Rear side view of 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 210 Sport Coupe. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

As reported by Autoevolution, this automotive gem was offered for a price of US $95,000, approximately equivalent to Rp.1.24 billion. Please note that this cost excludes any additional expenses related to shipping. An investment in this classic beauty promises not just a car, but a piece of automotive history meticulously preserved and ready to make a statement on the road.

Apologies, as a specific video to the car was unavailable was not available, we provide the following video as an alternative.

The allure of the 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 210 Sport Coupe lies not only in its captivating aesthetics but also in the raw power that resides under the hood. Don't miss your chance to own such this remarkable piece of automotive excellence at RK Motors. Act now, and drive home in a true classic that stands the test of time. *** [EKA [26032016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES || RKMOTORS | AUTOEVOLUTION ]

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When the Classical Chevrolet combined with Harley-Davidson

Unique ONES - Step into the captivating realm of automotive ingenuity, where extraordinary ideas give birth to truly remarkable creations. Picture a motorcycle forged from the fusion of car components and a motorcycle engine, a testament to the limitless possibilities within the world of automotive modification.

LUPO Racing H-D Bel Air stands as a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Chevrolet Bel Air, an emblematic figure of the 1950s automotive era. (Picture from: LUPORacing)

Enter LUPO Racing, a highly skilled modifier based in Toulouse, France, renowned for crafting automotive masterpieces that push the boundaries of creativity. Among their standout creations is the H-D Bel Air.

When Lupo Racing H-D Bel Air side by side with 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air, the 1950s legend car. Both are the extraordinary beauty automotive works isn't it. (Picture from: DigitaldTour)

This exceptional two-wheeler marries the classic allure of the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air with the robust muscle of a 2008 Harley-Davidson Dyna Street Bob engine, boasting an impressive length of 3.35 meters (11 feet). The H-D Bel Air stands as a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Chevrolet Bel Air, an emblematic figure of the 1950s automotive era.

LUPO Racing H-D Bel Air stands as a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Chevrolet Bel Air, an emblematic figure of the 1950s automotive era. (Picture from: LUPORacing)

In the meticulous hands of Lupo, approximately 3,000 hours were invested in crafting this hybrid motorcycle. The delicate art of marrying a Harley-Davidson engine with various components from a Chevrolet car resulted in a masterpiece radiating the globally acclaimed Chevy style. Notably, the large tail section, a meticulously designed fusion of two replicas, adds to the overall allure of this exceptional creation. 

Chevrolet H-D Bel Air's iconic bullet on the front mudguard. (Picture from: LUPORacing)

The 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air, an iconic car from the '50s, is revered for its distinctive features—a chrome front bumper, a hood-mounted bullet, sleek aluminum fins along the sides, and signature tail lights. These defining elements resonate easily with enthusiasts, contributing to the timeless charm of the Bel Air. Draped in a striking red body color, the motorcycle's presence at the SEMA 2013 captured the attention and admiration of attendees, leaving an indelible mark on the event.

Harley-Davidson Dyna Street Bob engine on H-D Bel Air. (Picture from: HDForums)

Lupo revealed that the spark of inspiration for this extraordinary motorcycle came from customer input. With unwavering dedication, he translated this idea into a tangible reality through an intricate modification project. The result is nothing short of an automotive masterpiece, showcasing the limitless potential of creative ingenuity.

Rear left side view of H-D Bel Air. (Picture from: HDForums)

As we delve into the realm of automotive craftsmanship, the H-D Bel Air stands as a testament to the artistry and innovation that arise when skilled hands bring unique concepts to life. It invites us to appreciate the beauty of unconventional ideas and the transformative power of merging different automotive worlds.

In essence, the H-D Bel Air serves as a vibrant reminder that the automotive landscape is ever-evolving, driven by the passion and creativity of individuals like LUPO Racing. As automotive enthusiasts, let's embrace the spirit of innovation and look forward to more groundbreaking creations that push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of custom vehicles.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops....... *** [EKA [03122013] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LUPO RACING | HDFORUM | GM AUTHORITY | CARANDDRIVER | CARAKOOM | DIGITALDTOUR | DWRENCHED | EBAY ]

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Jalpa: Lamborghini's Lesser-Known Legend of the 1980s

Lesser-KNOWN - As we take a stroll down memory lane through the vibrant automotive era of the 1980s, the Lamborghini Countach emerges as the undisputed icon of the brand. Yet, amidst the supremacy of V12-powered Lamborghinis, there exists a hidden treasure — the Lamborghini Jalpa, a V8-powered marvel with a unique identity and a captivating history.

Lamborghini Jalpa produced from 1981 to 1988, epitomized the sportscar status of its time and served as the entry-level Lamborghini and designed by Carrozzeria Bertone. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

The Lamborghini Jalpa, produced from 1981 to 1988, epitomized the supercar status of its time and served as the entry-level Lamborghini until the arrival of the Gallardo in the early 2000s. Meticulously crafted, the Jalpa's design, a creation of Bertone, evolved from the Silhouette, featuring a distinctive transverse mid-engine layout and a sharp angular profile that set it apart from its counterparts.

Lamborghini Jalpa boasted with a unique targa roof model,  evolved from the Silhouette, featuring a distinctive transverse mid-engine layout and a sharp angular profile that set it apart from its counterparts. (Picture from: Carvaganza)

In a departure from the conventional closed-roof design seen in the Countach, the Jalpa boasted a targa roof model. Under the hood, the Jalpa housed a newly developed V8 DOHC 3.5-liter carburetor engine, delivering an impressive 255 horsepower and a peak torque of 305 Nm. Paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, it offered a spirited performance, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6 seconds and reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.

Lamborghini Jalpa named after the "Jalpa Kandachia" – breed of fighting bulls was unveiled at the 1981 Geneva auto show, and entered production for 1982. (Picture from: Carvaganza)

During its heyday, Lamborghini faced fierce competition, particularly from Ferrari. The Jalpa, with only 410 units produced, held a niche position in the sportscar realm. However, as time progressed, declining sales led Lamborghini to halt production in 1988, making way for the Gallardo to assume the mantle of the new V8 Lamborghini until the arrival of the Urus SUV.

Lamborghini Jalpa's interior has been a fully in Italian wool carpet coupled with Magnolia Nappa leather. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The farewell of the Jalpa transpired during a period of market saturation in the sportscar industry, and its discontinuation went relatively unnoticed. Lacking the widespread recognition enjoyed by Ferrari, sightings of the Jalpa on the roads were infrequent, contributing to its air of exclusivity.

Lamborghini Jalpa powered by a newly developed V8 DOHC 3.5-liter carburetor engine, delivering an impressive 255 horsepower and a peak torque of 305 Nm. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

Regrettably, the Jalpa failed to capture the hearts of collectors, resulting in a dwindling population. Many found themselves abandoned, left to decay in warehouses, perceived merely as scrap metal. The prohibitive cost of maintaining the Jalpa as a vintage Lamborghini deterred enthusiasts from preserving its sporty design.

Lamborghini Jalpa produced from 1981 to 1988, epitomized the sportscar status of its time and served as the entry-level Lamborghini and designed by Carrozzeria Bertone. (Picture from: MotorTrend)

Despite its more accessible price tag compared to the Countach, potential buyers often hesitated, contemplating alternative investments in models like the Diablo or Countach. Nevertheless, for those who choose to embrace the Jalpa, it offers solace as a viable alternative. With limited options for Lamborghinis featuring V8 engines, the Jalpa stands out, even if it demands more time in the repair shop than on the open road.

In the end, the Jalpa remains a testament to Lamborghini's innovation and experimentation, a distinctive chapter in the brand's history that, despite its challenges, continues to intrigue those with a deep-seated passion for Lamborghini or the bygone era of 1980s supercars. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LAMBORGHINI | MOTORTREND | CARANDDRIVER | SILODROME | WIKIPEDIA ]

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Monaco's Automotive Jewel: The Allure of Carlo Chiti Stradale 90

Pay Homage - Ever heard of Monte Carlo Automobile? If not, you're not alone. This low-profile yet remarkable car brand, established by Fulvio Maria Ballabio in 1983, has been quietly influencing the automotive scene. Collaborating with skilled professionals, they created the first hand-built cars in the luxurious city-state of Monaco.

MCA Carlo Chiti Stradale 90 was created as a tribute to the famous engineer and company co-founder Carlo Chiti in 2014. (Picture from: Motori360.it)

One of their latest offerings, the Carlo Chiti Stradale 90, was revealed in 2014 during a historical car exhibition organized by the Veteran Car Club Pistoia. This exceptional vehicle pays homage to the renowned engineer Carlo Chiti, a key figure at Ferrari, instrumental in ATS (Automobili Turismo Sport), and a crucial part of founding Monaco's premier car manufacturer, Monte Carlo Automobile (MCA).

MCA Carlo Chiti Stradale 90 was revealed in 2014 during a historical car exhibition organized by the Veteran Car Club Pistoia.. (Picture from: Motori360.it)

The Carlo Chiti Stradale 90 is the natural evolution of the Quadrifuel project showcased in 2010. The previous project featured a powertrain with an Alfa Romeo V6 engine generating 300 horsepower, paired with a versatile power supply system supporting four fuel types: petrol, bioethanol, LPG, and natural gas. The innovative system utilized four interconnected tanks controlled by electronic units, allowing seamless transitions between different fuel sources.

Dashboard view of MCA Carlo Chiti Stradale 90. (Picture from: Motori360.it)

Under the hood, the Carlo Chiti Stradale 90 boasts an engine derived from the Alfa Romeo 8C coupe, coupled with an electric motor on the front axle developed by BAR Engineering. Inside, you'll find a carbon passenger cell, sporty Sparco seats, a sequential gearbox, and sleek plexiglass windows.

Under the hood, the Carlo Chiti Stradale 90 boasts an engine derived from the Alfa Romeo 8C coupe, coupled with an electric motor on the front axle developed by BAR Engineering. (Picture from: Motori360.it)

The production plan for the Carlo Chiti Stradale 90 is highly exclusive, with a limited run of 20 units scheduled to hit the streets over the next two years, available in both GT and Spyder formats. While this automotive marvel took center stage at the Top Marques Monaco 2015, showcasing its prowess and sophistication to enthusiasts and connoisseurs, the actual number of units produced remains a mystery. 

Rear three quarter view of MCA Carlo Chiti Stradale 90. (Picture from: Vitadistile)

To this day, sightings of this rare gem on the roads are exceptionally scarce, hinting that perhaps only one unit of this masterpiece exists. Monte Carlo Automobile continues to captivate the automotive world with its unique creations, leaving enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the future of this exclusive brand. 

Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or just embarking on your journey into the world of luxury automobiles, the Carlo Chiti Stradale 90 undoubtedly etches its name into the ever-evolving landscape of high-performance vehicles. Keep your eyes peeled for this automotive masterpiece; it's a testament to Monte Carlo Automobile's commitment to excellence and innovation. *** [EKA [23042015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTORI.IT | MOTORI360.IT | AUTOGESPOT | VITADISTILE | SEVENPRESS ]

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The XJ-13: Bridging Le Mans Dreams to Enduring Roadway Grace

ONE-OFF - The 1950s and 1960s marked a pivotal period in automotive design, with visionary engineers and designers ushering in a wave of revolutionary changes that birthed vehicles with exceptional aesthetics. Comparable to virtuosos in the art world, these trailblazers not only crafted visually stunning automobiles but also ventured into the fiercely competitive domain of one of the world's most challenging racing events—the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

1966 Jaguar XJ-13. (Picture from: ConceprCarz)

One standout from this remarkable era is the Jaguar XJ-13, a singular masterpiece that occupies a unique place in automotive history. Originally conceived as a potential contender for Le Mans, this extraordinary vehicle, unfortunately, never had the opportunity to showcase its prowess on the grand competitive stage. Its development took a back seat to the creation of a more pivotal Jaguar saloon car, leading to the unveiling of the iconic XJ-6 in 1968.

Right side view of 1966 Jaguar XJ-13. (Picture from: ConceprCarz)

As the XJ13 reached completion, its design found itself somewhat outdated due to evolving Le Mans regulations. These changes mandated that prototype cars were now limited to engines of 3.0 liters, and manufacturers aiming to compete with larger engines were required to produce a minimum of 50 examples as production cars.

Dashboard view of 1966 Jaguar XJ-13. (Picture from: ConceprCarz)

Nevertheless, the XJ-13 endures as a timeless symbol of automotive beauty, a credit to the genius of aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer, renowned for shaping the iconic C-type and D-type models. The potential of its 502bhp, 5.0-liter V12 engine should not be underestimated, representing a pinnacle of automotive engineering for its time.

During the initial testing phase in 1966, the XJ-13 demonstrated its prowess by setting a MIRA track record, achieving speeds that surpassed 161 mph (259 km/h) under the skilled guidance of racing driver David Hobbs. The invaluable insights gained from the development of this high-performance racing engine subsequently found their way into Jaguar's production V12 engine, which remained in continuous production from 1971 to 1996.

Rear three quarter view of 1966 Jaguar XJ-13. (Picture from: ConceprCarz)

In a dramatic turn of events in 1971, after spending several years in storage, the XJ-13 made a noteworthy return at MIRA during the E-type V12 launch. Piloted by the experienced Norman Dewis, a road wheel failure on the banking at high speed led to the car flipping end over end twice, rolling two more times before settling on what remained of its wheels.

Dewis, displaying a remarkable presence of mind, promptly turned off the ignition during the accident, seeking refuge under the scuttle and miraculously emerging unscathed. Despite the extensive bodywork damage incurred during the incident, the XJ-13 underwent meticulous reconstruction, a testament to its enduring legacy, and continues to grace the roads with its timeless elegance to this day. *** [EKA [02092015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CONCEPTCARZ ]

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