Unmasking Opulence: Dunham's Corvette Caballista Reinvents Exclusivity

Unique ONES - The allure of the Corvette, a name synonymous with American muscle, has captivated enthusiasts for decades. Regrettably, the once-exclusive charm of this iconic sports car seems to be waning, with some dismissing it as a mere participant in the fiberglass sports car arena. As we delve into the late 1970s, potential Corvette owners seeking to stand out found themselves resorting to importing Lamborghinis or DeTomasos.

Les Dunham crafted the Corvette Caballista, responding to fans' desire to revive the exclusive charm of this iconic sports car. (Picture from: Autoweek)

Recognizing this growing dilemma, Les Dunham, founder of the Dunham Coach Motor Car Company in Boonton, N.J., took it upon himself to remedy the situation. A customization maestro since 1957, Dunham became widely known after transforming a Chevrolet Corvette chassis by fitting it with a Cadillac Eldorado body. The result? The birth of the Corvorado (Corvette + Eldorado), prominently featured in James Bond's "Live And Let Die," among other films.

Meticulously from 1977 to 1982, Les Dunham converted ordinary Corvettes into the stunning Corvette Caballista—producing 50 units, with only 5 convertibles. (Picture from: Autoweek)

Between 1977 and 1982, Dunham meticulously converted ordinary Corvette into the stunning Corvette Caballista. To ensure exclusivity, only 50 units were produced, with a mere five being convertibles. The Corvette Caballista, crafted in Boonton, NJ, carried a hefty starting price of over $60,000 in 1980, reinforcing its exclusive status.

The Corvette Caballista arrived fully loaded, boasting a leather interior, grey carpet, air conditioning, tilt and telescopic compact steering wheel, and various other premium features. (Picture from: Hemmings)

The term "Caballista" itself, a Spanish word meaning "horse-man" or one knowledgeable about horses, was aptly chosen. Equipped with Chevy's 5.7 Liter L-83 V8 and a 700 R4 automatic transmission, owners of the Caballista became instant connoisseurs of "200 horses" and 285 ft-lbs of torque.

The Corvette Caballista features Chevy's 5.7 Liter L-83 V8 and a 700 R4 automatic transmission, delivering 200 horses and 285 ft-lbs of torque. (Picture from: Hemmings)

The feature-rich Caballista boasted 4-wheel power disc brakes, power steering, power windows and seats, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, AM/FM cassette, a 2-tone leather interior, tinted windows, removable mirror T-Top, custom silver paint with charcoal accents, and distinctive elements like full chrome bumpers, side supercharger pipes (purely for show), a Rolls-style grille, and mag rims.

The Corvette Caballista is adorned with unique features, including full chrome bumpers, side supercharger pipes (for display), a Rolls-style grille, and stylish mag rims.. (Picture from: Autoweek)

Undoubtedly, this car turned heads with its unique design, reflective of a bygone era. The late '70s saw it making appearances in films like "Shaft," gracing the entrances of legendary discos like Studio 54, and becoming the vehicle of choice for the flamboyant pimps of that time, akin to the spiritual ancestors of today's Escalade and Bentley.

In conclusion, Dunham's Corvette Caballista stands as a testament to the creativity that arises from the need for exclusivity. This automotive gem not only revitalized the Corvette's allure but also etched its name in the annals of unique and extravagant customizations in automotive history. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DUNHAM COACH | HEMMINGS | CARTHROTTLE | AUTOWEEK ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.

The UFO Cars of 1969: Gerry Anderson's Unearthed Sci-Fi Rarity

SHADO Treasures - Gerry Anderson, known for his iconic sci-fi puppetry in the '60s, surprised everyone in 1969 by delving into a new realm – a little-known show featuring live actors. If you're yearning for a touch of silver catsuits and purple wigs in today's society, this journey back to 1969 might be just what you're looking for.

SHADO's Commander Ed Straker's car is a notable addition to the UFO car series featured in Gerry Anderson's visionary sci-fi TV series from the 1960s. (Picture from: Hemmings)

In the realm of '60s sci-fi and Gerry Anderson's visionary creations, this lesser-known gem not only provided a glimpse into an imagined future but also left an indelible mark with its unique blend of creativity and practicality. As we ponder the show's idiosyncrasies and innovations, one can't help but marvel at the audacity of envisioning a world where alien defense and stylish cars converged in a captivating symphony of imagination.

The show transported us into the futuristic landscape of 1980, accurately predicted an alien invasion aiming to abduct humans for their body parts – a dark and captivating premise. The defenders against these otherworldly threats were the members of SHADO, the Supreme Headquarters Alien Defence Organization, a club seemingly as exclusive as escaping Virgin Media's relentless mailing list. Intrigued by the title sequence?

The SHADO Commander Ed Stalker's car touted as turbine-powered with power-operated gull-wing doors and a built-in mobile phone. (Picture from: SlotForum)

Derek Meddings, the creative genius behind the show's design, had previously lent his talents to numerous Gerry Anderson productions. For a more in-depth look at his work, particularly the two full-sized vehicles in this TV series—the cars driven by SHADO's Commander Ed Straker and field commander Paul Foster—explore his book, '21st Century Visions'.

Commander Ed Straker's car stood proudly among the operational jeeps of the SHADO board in front of its headquarters. (Picture from: Forum-RetroRide)

The special effects team, well-versed in crafting models for filming, took an unconventional approach when tasked with creating a real car. Alan Mann Racing, renowned for their work on the iconic Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, was given the responsibility, drawing on their expertise in racing Fords.

All cars, including SHADO Commander Ed Straker and Foster's, were built over a six-month period on modified Zephyr-Zodiac Mk4 platforms, equipped with Escort engines and gearboxes. (Picture from: TheNorthernEcho)

The Ford connection added an interesting layer as the UFO cars featured in the series were constructed on Ford Zephyr running gear, equipped with a 1600 Cortina engine. UFO cars, indeed! Colonel Foster sported his own attention-grabbing lilac stunner.

Straker's car is the 'basic' version, while Foster's vehicle boasts added details like air scoops and subtle extensions to alter its appearance. (Picture from: Forum-RetroRide)

Yet, the most prominent in the fleet was the brown coupe used by SHADO's Commander Straker for his daily excursions. This vehicle had its roots in the 1969 movie "Doppelgänger" (also known as "Journey to the Far Side of the Sun"), a film produced and written by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson.

Both car bodies (Straker and Foster's) were handcrafted from aluminum, with doors requiring manual lifting by a stagehand off-screen for character exits, as they did not open automatically. (Picture from: SlotForum)

Touted as turbine-powered with power-operated gull-wing doors and a built-in mobile phone, the truth behind the glamour was fascinating. The car, with its aluminum bodywork, sat on a modified Zephyr-Zodiac Mk IV chassis, housing an Escort engine and gearbox.

As you can see, Foster's car appears longer than Straker's; these extensions not only add length but also enhance its sleek appearance. (Picture from: SlotForum)

Contrary to the futuristic depiction, the phone was merely a prop, and the doors required manual effort to lift, as revealed in several pictures. Ultimately, it stands as a testament to the enduring charm of vintage sci-fi, resonating with enthusiasts and curious minds alike, bridging the gap between the past and our present fascination with the unknown.

Foster's car featured prominent air scoops and subtle extensions to the front and rear bodywork. (Picture from: GerryAnderson)

While the 1980s ushered in car phones, the futuristic features of SHADO cars remain unrealized. Similarly, the moonbase hasn't materialized till today. The distinctive gull-wing doors of these cars never became mainstream. In the 1970s, Canada produced just shy of 3000 Bricklins with gull-winged doors. Meanwhile, in the early 1980s, Northern Ireland manufactured fewer than 10,000 Deloreans, famously featured in Back to the Future. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GERRYANDERSON | HEMMINGS | DIKNYTVSPACE | THENORTHERNECHO | FORUM-RETRORIDES | SLOTFORUM | BRITMODELLER | EPGUIDES ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.

Eco-Friendly Excitement: Xiao Paoche SC-01 Unleashes Xiaomi's Electric Vision!

New EV - In the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive world, China has solidified its position as a powerhouse, especially in the realm of electric-powered cars. Among the notable players in this transformative era is Xiaomi, the electronic giant that ventured into the automotive market with its groundbreaking Xiaomi SU7.

The Xiao Paoche SC01 has been described as China's "national sports car". (Picture from: Autocar)

But Xiaomi didn't stop at SU7; it seized an opportunity to contribute to the electric vehicle revolution when Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology under its marque Xiao Paoche means Small Sports Car (SSC) unveiled the Xiao Paoche SC-01 two years ago. This marked a pivotal moment, showcasing Xiaomi's commitment to innovation beyond the realm of electronics.

The Chinese brand Xiao Paoche translating to "Small Sports Car," received substantial investment from Xiaomi unveiled a compact sports car named the SC-01 back in September 2023. (Picture from: Gari.pk)

The journey, however, was not without its challenges. Concerns loomed among customers who eagerly placed deposits for the SC-01 as uncertainty shrouded its production progress. The anxieties were put to rest recently as the first Xiao Paoche SC-01 sports car triumphantly emerged from the production line.

The dimensions, meticulously designed, boast a length of 4105mm, width of 1830mm, and height of 1160mm, with a weight around 1370kg. As we delve into the intricacies of the SC-01, similarities with mid-engined sports cars like the Lotus Elise and Toyota MR2 become apparent, suggesting a well-balanced weight distribution.

The Xiao Paoche SC-01 features angular headlamps, angled C-pillars, circular taillights, and a space frame constructed from three-dimensional steel tubes. (Picture from: AutoProNews.ru)

The exterior showcases a front flip design for the hood, coupled with a 350mm brake disc diameter and front six rear yellow integrated cast calipers. Constructed from chromium-molybdenum steel tubing, the chassis hosts a centrally mounted battery layout, emphasizing lightweight characteristics.

Aesthetics meet functionality with a curved windshield that not only reduces drag coefficient but also optimizes aerodynamics. Inside, the SC-01 boasts physical buttons, racing seats, and an Edifier audio system, seamlessly combining performance and style.

The Xiao Paoche SC-01 using a tubular space frame design around the batteries and driver will provide the EV with excellent rigidity and weight savings. (Picture from: Autocar)

The SC-01 promises a versatile driving experience with modes like front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, and sport mode, all featuring autonomous adjustment for enhanced traction during cornering, braking, and acceleration. 

Inside, the Xiao Paoche SC-01 boasts physical buttons, racing seats, and an Edifier audio system, seamlessly combining performance and style. (Picture from: Carvaganza)

Active thermal management technology ensures efficient temperature control, while the central navigation power battery boasts an impressive energy density of 160Wh/kg, providing a comprehensive range of 520km. Charging from 30 percent to 80 percent takes less than 25 minutes.

Backed by significant funding from Xiaomi, Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology is yet to confirm the manufacturer, leaving enthusiasts eagerly anticipating whether BAIC will take the reins, given its ties to Xiaomi.

The Xiao Paoche SC-01, a compact two-door roadster, features a design reminiscent of typical sports cars, sharing dimensions akin to the Audi TT, Lotus Elise, and Toyota MR2. (Picture from: Gocar.be)

With a pre-sale price just under CHN ¥300,000, approximately $42,000, the SC-01 is gearing up to hit the Chinese market in 2024, signaling a significant leap in the electric vehicle landscape. Priced at such affordable numbers as mentioned above, the Xiao Paoche SC-01 emerges as a captivating contender, competing alongside the MG Cyberster. | XqenQZqcYio |

The global availability of the SC-01 remains uncertain, heightening anticipation among automotive enthusiasts worldwide. In the accelerating momentum of the electric vehicle revolution, the Xiao Paoche SC-01 emerges as a promising player, symbolizing a thrilling intersection of innovation, style, and affordability. Buckle up for a ride into the future! *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARNEWSCHINA | FASTESTLAPS | AUTOCAR | CARSCOOPS | AUTOPRONEWS.RU | GOCAR.BE | GARY.PK ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.

Corvorado Chronicles: The Eccentric Fusion of Corvette and Eldorado

Unique ONES - The realm of automotive innovation often sparks from the fusion of iconic car designs. Among these amalgamations, the Dunham Coach Motor Car Company's creation, the Corvorado, stands out as a peculiar masterpiece. In the realm of unique cars, the Corvorado, a hybrid of the 1970s Chevy Corvette and Cadillac Eldorado, holds a distinctive position.

In the realm of unique cars, the Corvorado, a hybrid of the 1970s Cadillac Eldorado and Chevy Corvette, holds a distinctive position. (Picture from: Madle.org)

Dunham's workshop in New Jersey birthed seven of these peculiar creations, with one even gracing the silver screen in the James Bond film Live and Let Die. Les Dunham, the mastermind behind this automotive spectacle, aptly dubbed his creation the Corvorado, showcasing his ingenuity in blending two classic car models. The result is a visual marvel that captures attention and sparks intrigue.

The Corvorado crafted by Dunham Coach Motor Car Company, and adorned with a faux exhaust, spare tire, two-tone paint, and colossal "Super Fly" headlights. (Picture from: Madle.org)

Crafting the Corvorado involved melding parts from early 1970s Eldorados seamlessly onto a partially stripped C3 Corvette chassis. The A-pillars and T-tops, cleverly integrated, camouflage the Corvette's origins. 

Inside, the Corvorado offered a luxurious experience, though photographic evidence remains sparse. (Picture from: Madle.org)

Later iterations of the Corvorado employed fiberglass cut from molds derived from the initial steel cars, accentuating the audacity of this fusion. To elevate the extravagance, Dunham adorned the vehicle with a faux exhaust, spare tire, two-tone paint, and colossal "Super Fly" headlights.

As you can see, some Corvorados boasted custom "pedestrian slicer" wire wheels with centers extending beyond the tires, creating a spectacle of opulence. (Picture from: Madle.org)

In a nod to excess, some Corvorados boasted custom "pedestrian slicer" wire wheels with centers extending beyond the tires, creating a spectacle of opulence. These cars, aptly dubbed "pimp phones," paved the way for their features to influence mainstream Eldorados, Cadillacs, and Stutz Blackhawks, adding an air of eccentricity to the automotive scene, particularly in the streets of New York, where pimps took the wheel.

Propelled by a standard Corvette 350 ci V8 engine paired with an automatic transmission, the Corvorado preserved the integrity of its original drivetrain. (Picture from: Reddit)

Powering the Corvorado was a standard Corvette 350 ci V8 engine linked to an automatic transmission, maintaining the integrity of the original drivetrain. Robust springs and shocks provided necessary support for the heavy loads, from the chrome steel radiator shell to the oversized bumpers and flamboyant chrome features.

One of the seven Corvorados crafted by Les Dunham had played a role in the James Bond film 'Live and Let Die.' (Picture from: MotorBiscuit)

Inside, the Corvorado offered a luxurious experience, though photographic evidence remains sparse. Some even boasted waterfalls with storage tanks in the trunk, a testament to Dunham's commitment to extravagance. 

This neglected Corvorado discovered in Chicago is currently undergoing a gradual restoration, shedding light on the mysterious destiny of these unique vehicles. (Picture from: MotorBiscuit)

Regrettably, fuel shortages and changing automotive trends in the 1970s resulted in the abandonment of several Corvorados, even by their extravagant owners. A neglected Corvorado discovered in Chicago is currently undergoing a gradual restoration, shedding light on the mysterious destiny of these unique vehicles.

Yet, as time progressed, interest in these unique creations experienced a renaissance. A reproduction in California and the enduring curiosity surrounding Dunham's series production cars attest to the enduring legacy of the Corvorado, an automotive oddity that refuses to fade into obscurity. In the grand tapestry of automotive history, Dunham's creations, including the Corvorado, stand as vibrant testaments to the spirit of innovation that thrives on the unexpected and the extravagant. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DUNHAM COACH | MOTORBISCUIT | HEMMINGS | MADLE.ORG | REDDIT ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.

Forgotten Wings: The Tale of Brazil's Silver Swan

Forgotten ONES - In the dynamic tapestry of Brazilian automotive history, hidden gems and unique creations surface, spotlighting the skill of Samba's artisans. As we venture into the less-explored stories of Brazil's automotive scene, a captivating narrative of craftsmanship unfolds, transcending borders and echoing the innovative spirit—enter the Cisne Prateado (Portuguese for Silver Swan). It's crucial to note that this isn't the work of today's trendy Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.

The Cisne Prateado (Portuguese for Silver Swan) was a remarkable piece of automotive artistry took shape at Auto Mecânica Atenas in São Paulo, nestled between 1956 and 57. (Picture from: LexicarBrazil and refurbished by Visual Paradigm Online)

Nestled between 1956 and 57, a remarkable piece of automotive artistry took shape at Auto Mecânica Atenas in São Paulo. The masterminds behind this creation were none other than Constantin Theodore Kessar, a Greek immigrant, and Miguel Borrel, a Spaniard. Both brought their wealth of experience from the global automobile industry – Kessar from GM and Ford in the USA, and Borrel from the renowned Spanish Pegaso, a manufacturer of cutting-edge sports cars in the 1950s.

The Cisne Prateado's stunning designs were crafted by Constantin Theodore Kessar and Miguel Borrel. (Picture from: LexicarBrazil and refurbished by Visual Paradigm Online)

Built on a North American Ford chassis, the car boasted an engine meticulously tuned to unleash a formidable 145 horsepower. The fuel pump, radiator, and filters underwent resizing to accommodate the additional 40 horsepower, with the transmission sourced from a Lincoln.

However, the true masterpiece was the meticulously handcrafted steel body of the Brazilian Silver Swan by Borrel. (Picture from: LexicarBrazil and refurbished by Visual Paradigm Online)

The pièce de résistance, however, was the steel body of this Brazilian Silver Swan meticulously handcrafted by Borrel. This canvas became the embodiment of the team's ingenuity, featuring a blend of practical and avant-garde elements. Among the standout features were the whimsical "stability wings" – fish tails conceived to enhance safety, the opulent "gold-plated" grille details, and an external paint job that boasted an astonishing 54 shades of maroon.

Standout features included whimsical 'stability wings' – fish tails for safety, opulent 'gold-plated' grille details, and an exterior with 54 shades of maroon. (Picture from: LexicarBrazil and refurbished by Visual Paradigm Online)

The team's inventive flair extended to the car's functionality, with upward-sliding door windows seamlessly disappearing into the roof. Additionally, two travel suitcases adorned with the same material as the upholstery found a unique home behind the seats, as the car embraced a minimalist design with only two seats and no traditional trunk.

The Cisne Prateado built on a North American Ford chassis, the car boasted an engine meticulously tuned to unleash a formidable 145 horsepower. (Picture from: LexicarBrazil and refurbished by Visual Paradigm Online)

Imbued with the fervor surrounding the nascent Brazilian automobile industry, Auto Mecânica Atenas harbored ambitious plans to metamorphose into a manufacturer specializing in bespoke bodies. However, the realization of these aspirations hinged on securing the necessary financial backing – a goal that, unfortunately, remains shrouded in uncertainty, with no reports confirming the success of their endeavors.

The Cisne Prateado featured in black-and-white photos within a 1950s German magazine article. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)

As we navigate the annals of Brazilian automotive history, this unsung tale of creativity and ambition serves as a testament to the diverse and dynamic spirit that permeates the country's automotive landscape. It underscores the significance of acknowledging these hidden gems, ensuring that the legacy of remarkable craftsmanship endures, even in the shadows cast by more prominent players on the global stage. Brazil's automotive tapestry, rich and multifaceted, continues to unravel, revealing stories that captivate and celebrate the artistry born from the fusion of passion and innovation. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LEXICAR BRAZIL | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCAR | ALLCARINDEX | ERWINHORST.NL | GARAGEMBRASIL ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.

Chrysler's Futuristic Leap: Unveiling the Halcyon Concept

New EV - As Chrysler celebrates its upcoming 100th anniversary, the automotive giant is breaking away from its minivan reputation and making a bold leap into the future. Known primarily for producing the Pacifica minivan, Chrysler is unveiling the Halcyon Concept, a sophisticated and stunning roadster with electric power and full autonomous capabilities. This marks a significant departure from their traditional offerings and is a testament to the company's commitment to embracing advanced technology and innovation.

The Halcyon is a sleek roadster with a lot of interesting things to say about Chrysler’s future. (Picture from: TheVerge)

Christine Feuell, CEO of the Chrysler brand, emphasizes the brand's progressive vision in introducing advanced technology and experiences tailored for real-life applications. The Halcyon Concept serves as a showcase of Chrysler's future direction, especially considering the company's ambitious plan to exclusively sell electric vehicles by the end of 2028.

The Halcyon serves as a demonstration of Chrysler's commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology. (Picture from: TheVerge)

While the Halcyon is not a production-ready vehicle, lacking specific specifications like battery capacity and mileage, it serves as a demonstration of Chrysler's commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology. The concept integrates various technologies developed by Chrysler's parent company, Stellantis, including the STLA Brain operating system, STLA AutoDrive driver assistance, and STLA SmartCockpit infotainment system.

The Halcyon boasts a sleek design with a mere four inches of ground clearance and innovative French door-style openings. (Picture from: TheVerge)

Built on Stellantis' STLA Large platform, the Halcyon Concept boasts a sleek design with a mere four inches of ground clearance and innovative French door-style openings. The use of recycled materials, such as crushed and recycled music CDs for the company's wing logo, highlights Chrysler's dedication to sustainability, with 95 percent of the interior crafted from "sustainable" materials.

The Halcyon integrates various technologies developed by Chrysler's parent company, Stellantis, including the STLA Brain operating system, STLA AutoDrive driver assistance, and STLA SmartCockpit infotainment system. (Picture from: TheVerge)

Artificial intelligence plays a pivotal role in the Halcyon Concept, contributing to features like voice assistants, predictive navigation, and online software updates. The vehicle's ability to recognize user preferences and make preemptive adjustments to the HVAC system enhances the overall driving experience.

The Halcyon Concept contributes to features such as voice assistants, predictive navigation, and online software updates. (Picture from: TheVerge)

Chrysler envisions a future where autonomous vehicles play a significant role, and the Halcyon Concept aligns with this vision. Equipped with autonomous features and futuristic elements like a brightness-adjustable glass canopy and Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer Technology, the concept hints at a potential future where wireless charging on the move becomes a reality.

The use of recycled materials, such as crushed and recycled music CDs for the company's wing logo, highlights Chrysler's dedication to sustainability, with 95 percent of the interior crafted from "sustainable" materials. (Picture from: TheVerge)

While experts debate the feasibility of a completely driverless future, Chrysler is positioning itself to be ready for evolving trends. The company acknowledges that achieving full autonomy, especially at Levels 3 and 4, requires significant development work. Nevertheless, the Halcyon Concept exemplifies Chrysler's commitment to staying ahead of the curve.

The Halcyon equipped with autonomous features and futuristic elements like a brightness-adjustable glass canopy and Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer Technology. (Picture from: TheVerge)

Looking beyond the concept, Chrysler plans to reveal its first electric vehicle in 2025, with the Airflow SUV prototype already showcased. Despite discontinuing the Chrysler 300 sedan, the company remains focused on profitability and increasing its brand value. With approximately 133,000 minivans sold last year, Chrysler aims to leverage its revenue for developing a series of electric vehicles and maintaining a prominent position in the evolving automotive landscape.

In conclusion, Chrysler's Halcyon Concept serves as a beacon of the company's future direction, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to staying at the forefront of automotive technology. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Chrysler positions itself as a key player, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CHRYSLER | THEVERGE | CARANDDRIVER | CNBC | ELECTREK.CO ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.