Rare ONES - In the thrilling world of supercars, innovation knows no bounds. Beyond the giants of the automotive industry, even individuals can etch their legacy in this exclusive realm. Meet Robert Spiess, a German entrepreneur, and former managing director until 2008 of Metallwarenfabrik Gemmingen GmbH—a company specializing in manufacturing components for electrical mechanical engineering, generators, and power generation systems. In 1992, Spiess made a bold foray into the supercar arena with the introduction of the Spiess TC522.
The Spiess TC522's design, reminiscent of the Chevrolet Corvette C5, and the later Porsche Carrera GT, featured large side inlets and air dams, hinting at the innovative engineering beneath its carbon fiber rear bonnet. (Picture from: Spiess on Facebook)
As documented by Cartefacts, Spiess embarked on this supercar venture around 1991. Collaborating with former Mercedes-AMG engineer Karl-Heinz Knapp, the duo aimed to create a pioneering all-carbon composite sports GT car. The TC522's design, reminiscent of the Chevrolet Corvette C5, and the laterPorsche Carrera GT, showcased sleek and slung bodywork with prominent side inlets and air dams, providing a glimpse of the innovative engineering concealed beneath its carbon fiber rear bonnet.
The Spiess TC522 built by Robert Spiess in collaboration with a former Mercedes-AMG engineer Karl-Heinz Knapp, and first unveiled in the IAA 1992. (Picture from: FotoCommunity.de)
Shifting focus to the supercar's powertrain, Spiess collaborated with Callaway, drawing from their experience in the twin-turbo Corvette program for GM. The specifications were ambitious, with full compliance with EC regulations, 600 bhp of power / 600 lb-ft of torque, bespoke configuration, and stringent production quality control. The result was a sleek package featuring a unique intake manifold, twin AiResearch turbochargers, and specially cast exhaust manifolds.
The Spiess TC522 showcased a self-supporting monocoque made of CFRP, on a carbon fiber chassis. (Picture from: ObscureSupercar on Twitter)
Despite reports of a failed contract agreement with Callaway, the car achieved all its technical objectives with a ferocious twin-turbo 5,670cc V8. With an engine of such caliber, the Spiess TC522 is anticipated to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in under 4 seconds, reaching an impressive top speed of 190 mph.
The Spiess TC522 is planned to be powered by a ferocious twin-turbo 5,670cc V8 drivetrain. (Picture from: Spiess on Facebook)
Debuting at the IAA 1992, the TC522 showcased a self-supporting monocoque made of CFRP, on a carbon fiber chassis, including innovative features such an innovative safety steering of 6+1 steering wheel inching gear, ABS+ASR, coupled with a rear camera.
The Spiess TC522 also has innovative features such an innovative safety steering of 6+1 steering wheel inching gear, ABS+ASR, coupled with a rear camera. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Initially, plans were ambitious, aiming to manufacture 100 units with a starting price of ℳ500,000 (around €255,000), later revised to ℳ870,000 (around €445,000). However, due to lackluster demand and soaring costs, the project met an untimely demise, leaving behind only one fully assembled car and a dummy body.
Unveiled at the 1997 Frankfurt Auto Show in September, the Spiess C522, now featuring a fresh blue paint job, shared the spotlight with the silver-painted Spiess TC522. (Picture from: CarPassion)
Fast forward to the 1997 Frankfurt Auto Show in September, where the Spiess TC522, adorned in silver paint, took center stage once again. Joining it was the Spiess C522, sporting a new blue paint job, and slated for production by Spiess Fahrzeugbau in Wolfratshausen near Munich.
The Spiess C522, while less powerful, boasts a formidable naturally aspirated DOHC 5,670cc V8 from the Corvette C5 and comes with a more budget-friendly price compared to the TC522. (Picture from: Auta5p.eu)
The C522, though less powerful with a formidable natural aspirated DOHC 5,670cc V8 of Corvette C5, and priced lower than the TC522, faced a similar fate. Despite plans for 20 units, including a kit car model S522, production dreams were dashed, leaving the C522 as another prototype meeting its end like its predecessor.😔
Happy NEW YEAR - Stepping into the realm of automotive innovation, Franco Sbarro emerges as a genuine artist, sculpting dynamic masterpieces that defy conventional limits. In an era dominated by high-speed marvels, Sbarro's creations convey a powerful message – our only boundary is the limit of our imagination.
The 1990 Sbarro Chrono is a clear "red" reminder to not limit our imaginations. (Picture from: Obscure_Cars_Daily)
The 1990 Sbarro Chrono serves as a crimson declaration urging us to free our minds from the shackles of convention. With its foldable chassis and multiple timers set at 3.5 seconds, it establishes itself as the quintessential show-car challenging automotive icons like the McLaren F1.
The 1990 Sbarro Chrono is a compact sports car powered by a laterally-placed 3.5-liter 6-cylinder BMW M1 engine delivering 500 horsepower, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
Propelled by the iconic BMW M1 engine, the 1990 Sbarro Chrono flaunts a power-to-weight ratio that outshines the Ferrari 360 Modena. Italians, renowned for seamlessly blending emotion, design, and technology, find their embodiment in Franco Sbarro. His eccentric portfolio includes the 1989 Sbarro Osmos show car with hubless wheels, Sbarro Ionos, a pure sports racing style of 1997, and the 2001 Sbarro Autobau, featuring a stingray-like shape in the front fascia.
With its foldable chassis and multiple timers set at 3.5 seconds, the 1990 Sbarro Chrono establishes itself as the quintessential show-car. (Picture from: Carakoom)
The vibrant red creation, embracing the concept of seconds with a clock theme integrated into its design and a cheeky timer in the all-red interior, is a testament to Sbarro's creativity. Like its Sbarro siblings, the Chrono is a compact sports car powered by a laterally-placed 3.5-liter 6-cylinder BMW M1 engine delivering 500 horsepower, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The Chrono boasts a mind-boggling acceleration of 0-62 mph time of 3.5 seconds, surpassing revered "halo" cars of its time like the Bugatti EB 110 and McLaren F1.
The 1990 Sbarro Chrono featuring a semi-monocoque chassis of composites for weight savings coupled with unique flexing mechanism. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
The exceptional performance of the Chrono stems from an aggressive power-to-weight ratio, on par with the Bugatti Chiron. Utilizing composite and lightweight materials, including for its structure, this Sbarro creation weighs a mere 1,433 pounds—lighter than a Smart ForTwo.
By utilizing composite and lightweight materials, including for its structure, the Sbarro Chrono creation weighs a mere 1,433 pounds. (Picture from: Carakoom)
The unique flexing mechanism defines the Chrono, featuring a semi-monocoque chassis of composites for weight savings. Divided into two parts, the main body and a sub-frame housing the engine and rear axle, it mirrors modern motorcycles' split-trellis frame. Special hinges allow the car to appear "broken," and hydraulic links enhance the ride's comfort, though its chances of hitting the road remain limited.
The 1990 Sbarro Chrono has special hinges allow the car to appear "broken," and hydraulic links enhance the ride's comfort, though its chances of hitting the road remain limited. (Picture from: Carakoom)
Designed as a roadster, the 1990 Sbarro Chrono boasts a lightweight fiberglass body and a petite plexiglass windshield. Small headlamps adorned with a quirky "Chrono" logo upfront, where one "O" doubles as a timer, underscore its obsession with acceleration.
The 1990 Sbarro Chrono's chunky rear wheels contribute to its life-sized hot wheels allure, complemented by an unconventional wing resembling a comfortable bed. (Picture from: Obscure_Cars_Daily)
Chunky rear wheels contribute to its life-sized hot wheels allure, complemented by an unconventional wing resembling a comfortable bed. The all-red interior seamlessly follows the thematic tone, with bright red leather adorning every inch. Even the red-tinted plexiglass windshield, extending across the door ends, contributes to the cohesive aesthetic. The dashboard features a single insert housing a timer, playfully frozen at 3.5 seconds—a testament to true automotive obsession.
Not surprisingly, the 1990s, an era unbridled by creative constraints, birthed some of the most eccentric cars in automotive history. Some resembled raccoons, others drew inspiration from computer games. The Sbarro Chrono, an epitome of unrestrained creativity, stands as a testament to the wild spirit of that automotive period. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SBARRO | CARAKOOM | OBSCURE_CARS_DAILY | HOTCARS ]
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Forgotten ONES - In the realm of exotic automobiles, one name that might not immediately come to mind is Morocco. However, the Laraki Fulgura, crafted by Moroccan entrepreneur Abdeslam Laraki, demands attention. Based in Casablanca, Laraki brought forth this creation through his company, Laraki Automobiles SA back in 2002, claiming the title of the first Arab supercar, although its European influences are quite evident.
The Laraki Fulgura is the first Laraki Automobiles SA. a Moroccan company's attempt at a sportscar, and originally unveiled as a concept at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: GTPLanet)
Abdeslam Laraki, known for his success in providing luxurious yachts to wealthy clients, ventured into the automotive world with the ambition to cater to their refined tastes. The Laraki Fulgura was born, drawing inspiration from the exotic Italian Lamborghini Diablo, a sensation in the 1990s and early 2000s.
The
Laraki Fulgura built based on the frame and mechanicals of a Lamborghini Diablo, powered by a quad-turbo Mercedes-Benz 6.0L V12 to produce 920 hp (686 kW), coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission. (Picture from: StrangestCars)
With aspirations to rival thoroughbreds like the Lamborghini Murciélago, the Fulgura showcased a design reminiscent of the Ferrari 360 Modena, particularly noticeable in the two side air scoops dedicated to engine and rear-wheel cooling. Unveiled initially as a concept at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show, this supercar marked Laraki's inaugural foray into the sports car domain.
The
Laraki Fulgura is the first Laraki Automobiles SA. a Moroccan company's
attempt at a sportscar, and originally unveiled as a concept at the
2002 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: GTPLanet)
Under the hood, the Laraki Fulgura boasted a Mercedes-Benz quad-turbo 6-liter V12 engine, generating an impressive 920 horsepower. Positioned longitudinally behind the seats, propelling the rear wheels, this placement promised a well-balanced chassis and superior cornering capabilities. The aerodynamically sculpted carbon fiber body hinted at a top speed of 247 mph, with a rapid acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds.
The
Laraki Fulgura has an aerodynamically sculpted carbon fiber body hinted at a top speed of 247 mph, with a rapid acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds. (Picture from: GTPLanet)
Despite these enticing specifications, the Fulgura faced skepticism as the manufacturer provided performance figures without allowing independent reviewers to put them to the test. The absence of published road test reviews raised questions about the car's real-world capabilities. Priced at an estimated $555,750, the Fulgura's production status and unit count remain shrouded in mystery.
The lack of information suggests a lack of interest, relegating the Laraki Fulgura to the realm of forgotten supercars in automotive history. What a shame that 1st Moroccan's attempt at a supercar, while intriguing, should have vanished into obscurity. It appears that Laraki did not cease working; he went on to introduce several automotive creations such as Borac, Epitome, and ultimately Sahara. ✨Happy Holiday...⛄*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GTPLANET | STRANGESTCARS | PISTONHEADS ]
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Maestro WORKS - Embarking on a journey into the innovative world of industrial design, Luigi 'Lutz' Colani stands out as a true virtuoso. In our exploration of his remarkable legacy, we uncover the realm of bio-design, a concept he boldly pioneered during the 1960s.
Colani unveiled the Colani GT, a kit car that officially hit the roads in 1962 based on Volkswagen Beetle 1200. (Picture from: Auta5p.eu)
Luigi Colani, renowned for his design brilliance, carved a niche by mimicking various dynamic forms found in nature. His bio-design language, characterized by exaggerated roundness, breathes life into objects, infusing them with dynamism and vitality. The result is a collection of designs that are both quirky and uniquely captivating.
The construction of the Colani GT Spyder involved three distinct pieces—front, rear, and central parts—underscoring Colani's commitment to simplicity. (Picture from: AutoRevue.at)
Colani's creative journey took root after his studies in sculpture in Berlin and aerodynamics at the Sorbonne in Paris from 1946 to 1948. Transitioning into the role of a styling consultant for Fiat in the mid-1950s, he briefly explored the Californian aeronautical industry before venturing into racing boat design, including a noteworthy catamaran. Notably, he contributed to the styling concept of the BMW 700 in 1959.
Inside the Colani GT, the vintage VW steering wheel, streamlined dashboard, adjustable original Colani seats, and well-executed switchgear, dash lights, and center tunnel carpeting are all nicely done by the looks of things. (Picture from: AutoRevue.at)
In 1960, Colani unveiled the Colani GT, a kit car that officially hit the roads in 1962. This low-slung, tear-drop-profiled open sportscar, and later rebranded as the Colani Whippet in 1964, rode on a standard Volkswagen Beetle platform, featuring either a rear-mounted Volkswagen or Porsche 356 engine.
Besides embodying speed, agility, and efficiency, the Colani GT was envisioned as the epitome of a compact, lightweight, and uncomplicated sportscar. (Picture from: AutoRevue.at)
The Colani GT, embodying speed, agility, and efficiency, was envisioned as the epitome of a compact, lightweight, and uncomplicated sportscar. Inside, 356 gauges continue the Porsche theme, and a the shifter is
topped with a wooden T-handle knob. Original Colani seats appear to be
on sliders, and switchgear, dash lights, and center tunnel carpeting are
all nicely done by the looks of things.
In 1964, Colani enhanced his GT's design by incorporating a Perspex roof and distinctive canopy doors, including several with Gull-wing doors.. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
The construction of the Colani GT Spyder involved three distinct pieces—front, rear, and central parts—underscoring Colani's commitment to simplicity. Introduced in l'Automobile Magazine in December 1962, this compact sports coupe became a reality in the sixties as a kit car by Canadur, with 1,700 units built on the VW Kafer platform.
The then-35-year-old avant-garde industrial stylist and visionary, Luigi Colani, and his first prototype at the bottom of the impressive cliffs of the circuit of the Avus. (Picture from: Leroux.Andre.Free.fr)
In 1964, Colani enhanced his GT's design by incorporating a Perspex roof and distinctive canopy doors, including several with Gull-wing doors. This transformation led to the model's rebranding as the Colani Whippet.
Young Luigi Colani behind the wheel of his inaugural GT prototype, showcasing the incorporation of a Perspex roof and distinctive canopy doors in his groundbreaking design. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
These modifications significantly boosted the car's appeal, rof esulting in
the sale of hundreds of units until 1968. This metamorphosis turned
ordinary Beetles into attention-grabbing, stylish vehicles that frequently adorned German concours events.
The 1965 Colani Whippet featured with a unique Gull-wing styled doors. (Picture from: Leroux.Andre.Free.fr)
It also marked the commencement of a prolific series of experimental models. In 1967, Colani patented the 'C-Form,' featuring an upturned wing enclosed in pontoon-like structures, essentially laying the foundation for the 'wing car' concept that gained prominence in Formula 1 a decade later.
The Colani GT model evolved into the Colani GT 2 by 1974,
serving as a sports version of the basic VW that Colani personally
drove through the Indian subcontinent during that period. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
This innovative shape inspired various models and rolling prototypes, including the GT80,BMW M2, New RS, and more. Then in the 1970s, Colani laid the foundations for bio-design, whose organic shapes would influence design in the decades that followed.
The Colani GT 2 is said to be a 1987 model with a green finish, while sitting on display at the Luigi Colani Museum. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Meanwhile the GT model continued its evolution, transforming into the Colani GT 2 by 1974, a sports version of the basic VW that Colani personally drove through the Indian subcontinent. This vehicle was equipped with a world receiver and various extras such a unique Gull-wing styled doors. It's said that several Colani GT 2 models were produced until 1987.
The Colani GT 2 is said to be a model made in 1987 which is finished in maroon, while sitting on display at the Luigi Colani Museum. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Nevertheless, there is no conclusive information available on this matter; it's plausible that the unit, potentially from 1974, underwent restoration and experienced multiple color changes, transitioning from the original white to green and then maroon, or vice versa. What remains certain is that the unit persists to this day.
The MOST - Concept cars offer a sneak peek into a brand's future design, although discussions about them are infrequent. The impracticality of these cars for driving, lacking crucial mechanical parts, often leads to them being mere exhibits with estimated performance figures. Now, let's delve into the captivating story of the Ford Indigo Concept, a groundbreaking prototype that challenges conventional norms.
The Ford Indigo Concept designed by Ford's visionary design and technical director, Claude Lobo, the Indigo Concept stands out from its counterparts. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)
Designed by Ford's visionary design and technical director, Claude Lobo, the Indigo Concept stands out from its counterparts. It's not just a visual experiment; it houses a fully functional engine, with two versions crafted—one for exhibitions and another ready to hit the open road.
The Ford Indigo Concept's bodywotk boasts teardrop shape and minimalist interior to emphasize its racing pedigree. (Picture from: AutoClassMagazine)
The Indigo's origin story is as fascinating as its design. Inspired by Jacques Villeneuve's triumph at the Indy 500, Ford aimed to capture the essence of Indycar racing. This pursuit was fueled by the lessons learned after Michael Schumacher's 1994 F1 World Championship win with a Benetton-Ford, motivating Ford to seek success once again.
The Ford Indigo Concept's wheels, placed outside the body and covered by small black mudguards, accentuate the contrast between the vibrant red body and the black plastic cover concealing the engine. (Picture from: WhichCar)
Exploring its connection to Formula Indy race cars reveals a monocoque structure by Reynard Racing Cars. Crafted from carbon fiber, aluminum, and composites, this monocoque ensures high safety standards and optimal aerodynamics. The suspension system, inspired by Formula Indy, underwent tweaks to accommodate the dual-seater cockpit.
The Ford Indigo Concept powered by a 435-horsepower V12 engine, an evolution of the Ford Taurus's 3-liter Duratec V6. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Ford Indigo Concept is perhaps one of the most eccentric designs ever created by the American automaker. Resembling the Plymouth Prowler at first glance but boasting superior performance, it seamlessly blends form and function. The teardrop shape and minimalist interior with two comfortable leather seats emphasize its racing pedigree. With no weather protection, storage space, and a potent 6.0-liter V12 engine positioned behind the occupants' heads, the Indigo's purpose was crystal clear: speed.
The
Ford Indigo Concept reveals a monocoque structure by Reynard Racing
Cars, and crafted from carbon fiber, aluminum, and composites. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Not only lacking a roof and proper windscreen, the Indigo's interior was stripped down for weight savings. Equipped with a minidisc player, the roar of the engine inches away would likely drown out any tunes. The gearbox, featuring a sequential 6-speed (+ reverse), incorporates buttons on the steering wheel for shifting, with a carbon fiber clutch and an electronic hydraulic system for seamless gear changes.
The Ford Indigo Concept's interior underwent weight-saving measures, featuring a minimalist interior with two comfortable leather seats emphasize its racing pedigree. (Picture from: AutoClassMagazine)
The wheels, placed outside the body and covered by small black mudguards, accentuate the contrast between the vibrant red body and the black plastic cover concealing the engine. The teardrop shape, detachable back, fixed spoiler, and dual tailpipes make the Indigo a visual spectacle.
The teardrop shape, detachable back, fixed spoiler, and dual tailpipes make the Ford Indigo Concept a visual spectacle. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The heart of the Indigo is its 435-horsepower V12 engine, an evolution of the Ford Taurus's 3-liter Duratec V6. This powerhouse propels the lightweight (1,043 kg) Indigofrom 0 to 100 kph in a mere 3.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of approximately 276 kph. The sequential 6-speed gearbox and rear-wheel drive configuration align with its racing DNA.
Although the Ford Indigo Concept never reached production, its V12 engine found further development and was used in the Aston Martin DB7 from 1999 to 2003. (Picture from: AutoClassMagazine)
Despite its potential, Ford decided against putting the Indigo into production. While the company still owns the running prototype, the show car was sold in the early 2000s and is now in private hands. Although the Indigo never reached production, its V12 engine found further development and was used in the Aston Martin DB7from 1999 to 2003.
Today, the Indigo's futuristic shape, enhanced by HID lights on the thin front lip, evokes images of an Indy Car cruising the vast American interstate. Well, the Ford Indigo, with its distinctive design and exhilarating performance, stands as a poignant reminder of what might have been—an extraordinary addition to the roads, forever etched in automotive history. ✨Happy Holiday...⛄*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BELOW-THE-RADAR | WIKIPEDIA | DESIGNJUDGE | AUTOCLASSMAGAZINE | SUPERCARS.NET | THEDRIVE | AUTOEVOLUTION | ROADANDTRACK | CLASSICANDSPORTSCAR | WEIRDWHEELS | WHICHCAR ]
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Unique ONES - William Shatner, the iconic 92-year-old actor best known for his role as 'Captain Kirk' in Star Trek TV series, undertook a unique cross-country journey back in the summer of 2015. Diverging from the futuristic starship of the popular TV series, Shatner embarked on this adventure in a state-of-the-art tricycle, drawing inspiration from the wings of WWII B-17 bombers, as reported by the Daily Mailon January 9, 2015.
William Shatner has accomplished a lot in his career, but this current project is something he says he's most proud of. He is riding a motorcycle 2,400 miles across the country to raise money for an American Legion Scholarship fund. (Picture from: DailyMail)
The custom-made three-wheeled vehicle, named the Rivet, is a collaborative effort between Shatner and the Illinois-based company American Wrench, known for its expertise in motorcycle fabrication. Shatner, who typically navigates the streets in a 2002 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage, is thrilled to take the Rivet on a journey from Chicago to Los Angeles.
The Rivet trike that carried William Shatner across America in 2015 was a two-seater powered by a V8 engine.(Picture from: DailyMail)
The Rivet falls under the category of what the manufacturing firm refers to as a 'Landjet'. Crafted from the ground up as a three-wheeled marvel, it features an exposed cockpit resembling a command center, with seating tailored for a captain. The powerful V8 engine produces a harmonious roar, providing a sensation of flying on the open road.
The Rivet trike draws inspiration from the wings of WWII B-17 bombers, adorned with rivets to capture the essence of aircraft wing design. (Picture from: DailyMail)
One distinctive feature of the Rivet is its single-sided front-end suspension, creating the illusion that the wheel is gracefully floating on one side. In contrast to many trikes with straight axles in the back, the Rivet boasts an independent rear suspension for enhanced maneuverability.
While the mockup shows a one-seater, the finished Rivet trike will accommodate two passengers. (Picture from: DailyMail)
While initial renderings depict a solo rider, the finished trike will accommodate two individuals and include a protective canopy. Crucially, it is designed for cruising, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for Shatner and his fellow passengers.
The overarching goal of the Rivet is not merely to showcase the pilot or the vehicle itself but to celebrate the art and craftsmanship of hand-built machines. This project embodies the spirit of preserving America's 'routes' and draws attention to the enduring allure of custom-built vehicles, combining functionality with artistic ingenuity. As the Rivet stands as a testament to innovation, paying homage to the iconic designs that inspired its creation. ✨Happy Holiday...⛄
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 [11012015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RIVET MOTORS | DAILYMAIL ]
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