The Mysterious Gems - Exploring the world of classic cars takes us on a thrilling adventure filled with tales of creativity and skill. Today, we uncover the fascinating story behind a unique sports car from the 1970s, born in the modest workshop of a talented French car enthusiast and unveiled at the prestigious 1977 Geneva Auto Show.
The Meyrignac A110 Coupe, designed by Denis Meyrignac, utilized the chassis and mechanics of the Alpine A110 1600S Berlinette, debuting at the esteemed 1977 Geneva Auto Show. (Picture from: ClassicAndSportscar)
This exceptional creation, was conceived by Denis Meyrignac based on the chassis and mechanics of the Alpine A110 1600S Berlinette, named the Meyrignac A110 Coupe. What sets this car apart is not just its striking wedge-shaped design but also the engineering decisions behind it.
The Meyrignac A110 Coupe showcased a distinctive wedge-shaped design typical of the 1970s era. (Picture from: LesAlpinistes)
Meyrignac's choice of a Renault engine, in compliance with environmental standards of that era, proved pivotal. It allowed the car to undergo necessary emissions testing, showcasing its efficiency and eco-friendliness. Despite these advancements, challenges arose, leading Meyrignac to store the prototype in his basement for years.
The Meyrignac A110 Coupe offers a unique cabin access experience with its upward-opening canopy design. (Picture from: Papier Plié in Pinterest)
Speculation about the car's specifications, including debates on its engine type and original color, fueled intrigue and captivated enthusiasts. The mystery surrounding its features added to its allure, garnering significant attention upon its rediscovery.
The Meyrignac A110 Coupe boasts a wide windshield that offers a low riding position and wide viewing angles for enhanced driving experience. (Picture from: RareFrenchSportscars)
Renault Classic recognized its historical value and embarked on a restoration journey to preserve the Meyrignac Alpine A110 Coupe's legacy, and still with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine. The revival of this remarkable vehicle not only celebrated Meyrignac's craftsmanship but also highlighted his subsequent achievements in the automotive industry.
Before making its re-appearance at the prestigious 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Meyrignac A110 Coupe underwent a thorough restoration process following years of abandonment. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)
Its appearance at the prestigious 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed served as a testament to its enduring design and Meyrignac's lasting impact. This momentous event opened doors to a successful career, including opportunities with Renault Formula 1 and the esteemed SERA design studio.
The story of the Meyrignac Alpine A110 Coupe mirrors the passion and ingenuity of classic car enthusiasts worldwide. Its rediscovery and restoration stand as a tribute to innovation and the timeless allure of vintage automobiles. As we admire its sleek lines and timeless appeal, we're reminded of the rich history woven into every classic car's journey. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RARE FRENCH SPORTSCARS | CLASSIC AND SPORTSCAR | LESALPINISTES | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS ]
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It's been a great pleasure being with you on this journey.
Thank you.
Extinct Gems - In the vibrant world of automotive history, Italy stands as a stalwart producer of exquisite cars, thanks to its lineage of renowned carriage makers. Names like Pininfarina, Boano, Ghia, Bertone, and Vignale have graced the automotive scene with atypical versions that stand apart from the offerings of major manufacturers. This rich heritage has given rise to a plethora of unique models in the Italian market, showcasing a blend of artistry and engineering prowess.
The Michelotti Boudot Conrero Coupe represents a fusion of French-Italian craftsmanship and ingenuity, and crafted through a collaboration between Giovanni Michelotti, Virgilio Conrero (who created the engine), and Roger Boudot (chassis elements) in 1962. (Picture from: LiveJournal)
It's been a great pleasure being with you on this journey.
Thank you.
CAR Masterpiece - Exploring the history of unique cars crafted by passionate automotive enthusiasts can be a fascinating journey through time. One such remarkable creation is a custom car model crafted by the renowned American autobuilder George Barris, which took center stage as a grand prize in a raffle organized by Imperial Oil Canada (Esso) in 1967.
The Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado, a custom car model by renowned American autobuilder George Barris, was crafted for Imperial Oil Canada (Esso) to commemorate Canada's centennial at Montreal's Expo 67. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
Designed to commemorate Canada's centennial at Montreal's Expo 67, Imperial Oil Canada (Esso) embarked on a journey of automotive innovation by partnering with Barris Kustom Industries to craft four bespoke 1967 Oldsmobile Toronados, later known as the Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado. These vehicles were envisioned as the epitome of family touring cars, seamlessly blending futuristic aesthetics with the prevailing trends of that era.
The Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado, built upon the 1967 Oldsmobile Toronado, epitomizes family touring cars by seamlessly blending futuristic aesthetics with era-defining trends. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
The Oldsmobile Toronado marked a significant milestone as the first front-wheel-drive American car since the 1937 Cord. Born in the wake of the iconic Batmobile, this automobile stands out as one of the most iconic creations of the 1960s. Skilled craftsmen at Barris Kustom meticulously transformed the Toronado by extending its wheelbase from 3022 to 3403 mm and the overall length from 5816 to 6121 mm, resulting in a visually striking and aerodynamically efficient masterpiece.
The Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado stands out as one of the most iconic creations of the 1960s, with its extended wheelbase from 3022 to 3403 mm and overall length from 5816 to 6121 mm, resulting in a visually striking and aerodynamically efficient masterpiece. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
The exterior enhancements exuded elegance, featuring convex fiberglass fenders, rectangular headlights, a hood adorned with eight exhaust pipes, and a sleek sloping fastback roof, all accentuated by chrome accents. These modifications not only elevated the car's aesthetic appeal but also contributed to its superior performance on the road.
The Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado's rear passenger compartment featured a curved sofa with a fold-out table. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
The spacious interior boasted swiveling front seats that could be turned to face the rear wrap-around lounge seat, providing occupants with a panoramic view of their surroundings. The elongated front and rear bumpers added a touch of aggression to the Toronado's appearance, complemented by oversized raised wheel wells that added a futuristic charm to the expansive seating area. The interior amenities included a pull-out table for rear passengers, dual radios, and an internal refrigerator, ensuring a luxurious and convenient driving experience.
The Oldsmobile Esso 67X Toronado, with its captivating Gold Metallic exterior and plush Tan interior, showcases Barris' unparalleled craftsmanship through meticulous customization. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
Finished in a captivating Gold Metallic exterior and a plush Tan interior, this meticulously customized Toronado serves as a testament to Barris' unparalleled craftsmanship. Every detail, from the unique wrap-around rear seating to the integrated writing desk, reflects a harmonious blend of innovation and luxury, solidifying its status as George Barris' crowning achievement.
Following Expo 67, the four Toronado 67Xs made their way to Esso gas stations, where they became the focal point of raffles offering enticing prizes like color televisions and cameras, with the grand prize being ownership of one of these iconic cars. Winners not only received the Toronado but also enjoyed additional perks such as complimentary gas, repairs, and insurance for a year, turning their dreams into reality.
The enduring legacy of the Toronado 67X lives on through the surviving examples, with one of them showcased at the Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria during Canada's 150th anniversary celebration in 2017. This lasting impact pays homage to the timeless allure and innovative spirit embodied by George Barris' remarkable creation, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history and captivating enthusiasts for generations to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VICTORIABUZZ | SCHMITT | AUTOMOTIVE-HERTITAGE | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC | CARSCOOPS | AUTOBLOG ]
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Genesis EV - The Korean luxury brand Genesis unveiled its latest masterpieces at the Genesis House New York, setting the stage for a new era in automotive innovation. On March 25, 2024, enthusiasts and industry insiders were treated to a glimpse of the future with the Genesis Neolun Concept and the Genesis GV60 Magma Concept.
A lineup of Genesis Magma series models sat on display at the prestigious New York International Auto Show. (Picture from: RPMNewsWeekly)
1. Genesis Neolun Concept
The Genesis Neolun Concept represents a leap forward in electric SUV technology, embodying a fusion of cutting-edge features and design excellence. Inspired by Korea's iconic moon-shaped porcelain jars, the Neolun concept symbolizes Genesis' commitment to timeless aesthetics and meticulous craftsmanship.
The Genesis Neolun Concept represents a leap forward in electric SUV technology, embodying a fusion of cutting-edge features and design excellence. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke remarked that the design language of the Neolun Concept transcends the ordinary, blending newness with the allure of the moon.
A
notable feature of the Neolun Concept is its innovative carriage door
design, seamlessly integrated without the conventional B pillar. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
One of the standout features of the Neolun Concept is its innovative carriage door design, seamlessly integrated without the traditional B pillar. This not only enhances the vehicle's aesthetics but also improves interior spaciousness and accessibility for passengers.
The Genesis Neolun Concept enhances both the vehicle's aesthetics and interior spaciousness, providing improved accessibility for passengers. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Genesis has achieved a remarkable milestone in engineering by bringing this concept to life, signaling a bold direction for future production vehicles.
The Genesis Neolun Concept draws inspiration from Korea's iconic moon-shaped porcelain jars, embodying Genesis' dedication to timeless aesthetics and meticulous craftsmanship. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Genesis emphasizes that they "don't create show cars for the sake of show business," signaling that a production version of the Neolun concept is in the works. This flagship SUV is slated for release in the near future, with an anticipated arrival within the next five years.
2. Genesis GV60 Magma Concept
On the performance front, the Genesis GV60 Magma Concept steals the spotlight with its captivating blend of aggression and elegance. The muscular wheel arches, aerodynamic enhancements, and striking color palette define the GV60 Magma as a symbol of power and sophistication. Inside, luxury meets functionality with premium materials and attention to detail, promising an unparalleled driving experience.
The Genesis GV60 Magma Concept embodies power and sophistication, featuring muscular wheel arches, aerodynamic enhancements, and a striking color palette. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Genesis doesn't just stop at showcasing these concepts; it teases a broader Magma program that promises high-performance variants across its lineup. From the GV80 Coupe concept to the G80 Magma Special and the X Gran Berlinetta concept, Genesis is redefining automotive excellence with a focus on innovation and driving pleasure.
When it comes to performance, the Genesis GV60 Magma Concept shines with its captivating blend of aggression and elegance. (Picture from: Demokratis.co.id)
A key aspect of Genesis' vision is its collaboration with racing legend Jacky Ickx, hinting at the brand's commitment to delivering exhilarating performance on the road. This partnership underscores Genesis' dedication to pushing boundaries and creating vehicles that thrill enthusiasts worldwide.
The grand reveal of the Neolun Concept, GV60 Magma Concept, and other Genesis models took place at the prestigious New York International Auto Show, showcasing Genesis' prowess in blending luxury, technology, and performance. As the automotive landscape evolves, Genesis stands at the forefront, shaping the future of mobility with its bold designs and unwavering dedication to excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GENESIS | AUDACY | CARANDDRIVER | RPMNEWSWEEKLY ]
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⛔ THE LEGEND 💣 - Maserati, the iconic Italian automotive brand steeped in history since 1914 and now part of Fiat, is a name synonymous with luxury, performance, and style. Over the years, Maserati has produced a myriad of car models, showcasing its prowess in both the consumer market and the high-stakes world of racing.
1957 Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe was handbuilt by Zagato in Italy by following the Costin specifications. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
One standout creation from Maserati's rich history is the Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe, a race car crafted to compete in the 1957 World Sportscar Championship, representing Italy's automotive excellence on the global stage.
1957 Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe uses a 8-cylinder, 4.5 liter engine able to spew up to 400 hp of power. (Picture from: Supercars)
Originally conceived as a barchetta in 1956 and piloted by racing legend Juan Manuel Fangio in Buenos Aires, the car underwent a transformation in 1957 under the design genius of British automotive designer Frank Costin. The result was a stunning coupe variant, handcrafted by Zagato in Italy to precise Costin specifications, thus earning its distinctive hyphenated name.
Zagato's craftsmanship shone through in the coupe's lightweight aluminum body, adding a mere 65 kg compared to its barchetta counterpart. This emphasis on lightweight construction contributed significantly to the car's performance, making it a formidable contender on the racing circuit.
Interior view of the Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe, as seen during Maserati's centenary celebration back in 2015. (Picture from: Otoblitz)
Dubbed 'Il Mostro' (The Monster) by Zagato, the car earned this moniker due to its striking design, meticulously honed for optimal functionality, paired with a potent 8-cylinder, 4.5-liter engine generating a staggering 400 hp.
The Maserati 450S took on formidable rivals like Ferrari and Jaguar at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, piloted by the legendary Stirling Moss and Harry Schell. Despite starting from second place, the car showcased its speed, leading the race for several laps with a top speed of 320 kph. However, an unfortunate engine failure prevented it from finishing the race.
1957 Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe changed into a road-legal car after purchased by an American car fans named Byron Staver in 1958. (Picture from: Otoblitz)
Post-Le Mans, the car underwent a transformation, becoming road-legal under the ownership of American enthusiast Byron Staver, who tastefully repainted it in elegant black, departing from its original 'rosso corsa' hue.
Renumbered as 4512 by Maserati and further refined by Fantuzzi, the coupe exchanged hands over the years, finding a temporary home at the Rosso Bianco Museum in Germany from 1978 to 2002. Resurrected by Maserati collector Alfredo Brener in 2002 after restoration in Italy, the car stands as a testament to Maserati and Zagato's enduring legacy in automotive excellence.
Later this 1957 Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe inspired the new car named Maserati Zagato Mostro in 2015. (Picture from: Aeromobilia)
In a poignant tribute to its heritage, Maserati unveiled the Maserati Zagato Mostro supercar in 2015, drawing inspiration from the iconic Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe, a fitting homage to a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide. | cf1JOLm493U |
The journey of the Maserati 450S Costin-Zagato Coupe encapsulates the intersection of artistry, engineering, and racing prowess, showcasing the enduring allure of Italian automotive craftsmanship through the annals of time. *** [EKA [09112020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSTYLING | SUPERCARS] AUTOMOTIVPRESS.FR | GOODWOOD ROAD&RACING | WIKIPEDIA ]
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ONE-OFF - In the world of automotive history, one particular car stands out as a testament to the enduring allure of copper, brass, and bronze in car design. The 1967 Exemplar I Concept is a unique creation that aimed to restore the prestige of these materials in an era dominated by steel and chrome.
The 1967 Exemplar I Concept is a unique creation that aimed to restore the prestige of copper, brass, and bronze materials in an era dominated by steel and chrome. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
During the Brass Era, which spanned from 1896 to 1915, copper, brass, and bronze were integral to car construction. However, as mass production techniques evolved, these materials were gradually replaced by steel, nickel plating, and enamel. Chrome emerged as the go-to coating, defining the aesthetic of cars for decades.
The Exemplar I was designed by Mario Revelli de Beaumont and built by Carrozzeria Coggiola, it was first shown to the world at the 1968 New York Auto Show. (Picture from: Silodrome)
The resurgence of copper in automotive design began in 1964 when the Copper Development Association collaborated with Carrozzeria Sibona-Bassano to create the 1964 Mercer-Cobra designed by Virgil M. Exner Sr. and his son, Virgil M. Exner Jr. Despite its attention-grabbing design, the industry did not immediately embrace copper on a large scale.
The 1967 Exemplar I Concept built based on Buick Riviera Gran Sport, and showcased a futuristic design ahead of its time, resembling vehicles from the mid-1970s rather than the late 1960s. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
The turning point came in 1967 with the unveiling of Exemplar I. Funded by the Bridgeport Brass Company and the Copper Development Association, this car was a reimagined 1967 Buick Riviera Gran Sport, featuring a modern body designed by Mario Revelli de Beaumont and built by Carrozzeria Coggiola in Turin, Italy.
Inside the cabin, copper plating is prominently featured, extending to the car's exterior as well. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
The Exemplar I showcased a futuristic design ahead of its time, resembling vehicles from the mid-1970s rather than the late 1960s. Its innovative features included dual radiators and a front-mounted spare tire, challenging traditional automotive norms.
The interior of Exemplar I was equally striking, adorned with copper-plated elements from center consoles to trim pieces. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
The interior of Exemplar I was equally striking, adorned with copper-plated elements from center consoles to trim pieces. However, the excessive use of copper somewhat overshadowed the car's groundbreaking design, leading to mixed reactions.
Under the hood, you'll find the spare wheel at the front, along with dual radiators and a significant presence of copper plating and components, showcasing the material's importance. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Following its debut at the 1968 New York Auto Show, Exemplar I embarked on a nationwide tour, captivating audiences with its unique blend of style and material innovation. However, due to regulatory constraints, the car could not be registered for road use in the United States.
The Exemplar I serves as a fascinating chapter in automotive history, highlighting the ongoing quest for innovation and the enduring appeal of unconventional materials in car design. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Fortunately, the car found a savior in Herman Steinkraus, president of the Bridgeport Brass Company, who purchased it to preserve its legacy. After decades in private ownership, the car underwent restoration and is now (in April 2024) offered for sale, registered and ready for the road in Vermont as a 1967 Buick Riviera.
The story of Exemplar I serves as a fascinating chapter in automotive history, highlighting the ongoing quest for innovation and the enduring appeal of unconventional materials in car design. Its journey from show car to road-legal masterpiece underscores the timeless allure of craftsmanship and creativity in the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BRINGATRAILER| SILODROME| AUTOEVOLUTION | CONCEPTCARZ ]
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The story of the Meyrignac Alpine A110 Coupe mirrors the passion and ingenuity of classic car enthusiasts worldwide. Its rediscovery and restoration stand as a tribute to innovation and the timeless allure of vintage automobiles. As we admire its sleek lines and timeless appeal, we're reminded of the rich history woven into every classic car's journey. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RARE FRENCH SPORTSCARS | CLASSIC AND SPORTSCAR | LESALPINISTES | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS ]
