ONE-OFF- In the 1950s, the automotive industry was a battleground of innovation, with manufacturers striving to captivate the public and secure their dominance. Among the giants in this arena was Ford Motor Company, an American icon renowned for its groundbreaking vehicles. During this era, Ford introduced a car that not only showcased their technological prowess but also became a symbol of their vision for the future. This car, launched in the early 1950s, underwent several name changes, reflecting its evolving identity and the company's aspirations.
1952 Lincoln Continental 1950-X is the first Ford's dream car with a tagline 'Car of Tomorrow'. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
Initially introduced in 1952, this visionary vehicle was called the Lincoln Continental 1950-X, proudly tagged as the "Car of Tomorrow." By 1953, it had been rebranded as the Ford X-100, and by 1957, it was known as the Lincoln Typhoon.
1952 Lincoln Continental 1950-X was also intended as a pilot model being studied for the development of a future practical five-passenger sedan. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
This car wasn't just a showpiece; it was a laboratory on wheels, a testing ground for innovations that would later become standard in everyday cars. The car's torpedo-like design influenced future models, such as the Ford Thunderbird of the 1960s, leaving a lasting impact on automotive design.
The term "concept car" wasn't in use back then, so Ford referred to this vehicle as a "laboratory on wheels." It was built to test and showcase new features, many of which eventually found their way into production models. Initially constructed as a scale model for wind tunnel testing, the car incorporated around 50 innovative features.
1953 Ford X-100is dubbed as 'laboratory on wheels,' was functioned like a laboratory for the manufacture of new features that later might be included into the production cars'. (Picture from: MacMotorCityGarage)
Some, like moisture-sensitive cells on the roof that automatically closed plastic sliding panels, a built-in hydraulic jacking system, heated seats, and onboard telephones, became commonplace. Others, like the variable volume horn and in-car electric shaver, did not catch on.
1953 Ford X-100 has 50 innovative features, including moisture-sensitive cells on the roof, which automatically closes plastic sliding roof panels, etc. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The car's design was as futuristic as its features. It boasted a curved windshield that seamlessly merged with the top of a clear dome. To ensure comfort in sunny weather, a non-dazzling, low-heat transmission section above the front seat could be mechanically pulled into a leather-covered canopy. Built on a 1952 Lincoln chassis with a 123-inch wheelbase, the prototype was crafted by Ford's advanced design team, including notable designers Joe Oros, John Najjar, and Elwood Engel.
1953 Ford X-100 has a sleek cockpit features an instrument panel with gauges clustered around the driver and a row of controls on the dashboard similar to the airplane throttles. (Picture from: MacMotorCityGarage)
Measuring over 221 inches in length and 81 inches in width, the car provided spacious seating for two passengers. Its sleek cockpit featured an instrument panel with driver-centric gauges and a row of controls on the dashboard reminiscent of airplane throttles. The top half of the car featured a retractable clear plexiglass roof, operated by an electric motor and a rain sensor, adding to its futuristic appeal.
1953 Ford X-100 was fitted with an upgraded Lincoln 317.5 cubic inches V8 engine, which able to spew power of 300 horses. (Picture from: MacMotorCityGarage)
Under the hood, the car was powered by a Lincoln V8 engine, typically displacing 317.5 cubic inches and producing 160 horsepower, which was boosted to 300 horsepower using traditional hot rod techniques. This included a free-flowing exhaust manifold and a dual long-range tube air purifier. One of the standout features of this engine was the five-carburetor intake manifold, dubbed the "Multi-Plex" by Ford.
Front view of 1957 Lincoln Typhoon. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
A fully functional prototype was showcased at various auto shows in America and Europe in 1953, marking Ford's 50th anniversary. It even made a cinematic appearance in the 1954 Hollywood movie "A Woman's World." By 1958, its role as an exhibition car concluded, and it was donated to the Henry Ford Museum, where it remains a testament to Ford's innovative spirit.
This car, with its three names and many groundbreaking features, represents a significant chapter in automotive history. It not only showcased the technological advancements of its time but also influenced the design and functionality of future vehicles. The legacy of the Lincoln Continental 1950-X, Ford X-100, and Lincoln Typhoon lives on, a symbol of an era when the future of automobiles was being shaped with each innovative idea.*** [EKA [09102020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THEHENRYFORD.ORG | CARSTYLING.RU | MACMOTORCITYGARAGE ]
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Luxury on Budget - Ever dreamed of owning a car that looks like a million bucks but costs less than your average used car? Imagine cruising in a vehicle that turns heads and leaves even the most knowledgeable car enthusiasts guessing. Such is the allure of the Cimbria SS by Amore, a car with a fascinating history and a design that stands the test of time.
The Cimbria SS in its early '80s form, showcasing its signature gullwing doors. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The story of the Cimbria SS began in 1978 when Joe Palumbo founded the Amore Car Company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Palumbo's passion for unique automotive design led to the creation of the Cimbria, a kit car with a distinctive style. The Cimbria drew inspiration from Richard Oakes' Nova, also known as the Sterling, and featured striking gullwing doors. This design, combined with its versatility, allowed the Cimbria to enjoy nearly a decade of success.
An early example of the classic Amore Cimbria SS. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Initially, the Cimbria was designed to fit onto a full-length VW Beetle floorpan, making it accessible for many car enthusiasts. As the model evolved, a custom chassis was developed to accommodate a range of donors, from the Corvair and Pinto to the Porsche. The only modification needed for the VW donor pan was the lowering of the steering box, simplifying the build process for hobbyists.
An early Cimbria SS, notable for its lack of extra vents in the nose and rocker panels. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Amore claimed that the car could be built in 120 hours, offering two different kits to suit varying levels of expertise and commitment. The basic package included parts for use with VW components, while the deluxe kit came pre-assembled, requiring the owner only to mount the drivetrain on the custom chassis. This flexibility made the Cimbria an appealing project for a wide range of car enthusiasts.
Another early example of Cimbria SS, showing its Mangusta like rear hatch. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
As the years passed, the Cimbria's original design evolved, incorporating various gills and intakes that enhanced its aesthetic appeal. The initial Mangusta-style rear hatch was replaced by a Corvette-inspired buttressed look with a flat decklid, providing easier access to the engine. These design changes kept the Cimbria fresh and exciting for new generations of car builders and collectors.
An 80's model Cimbria SS showing its interior and gull-wing doors. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Despite its initial success, the Amore Car Company folded in the mid-1980s. However, Joe Palumbo's influence in the kit car world did not end there. He continued his work with a replica of the Koenig BB512, known as the Aldino K/O. Meanwhile, the legacy of the Cimbria lived on through various incarnations. A manufacturer of yachts took over production and rebranded it as the Nereia. Additionally, a version of the Cimbria was sold in the UK as the Eagle SS, which remains in production to this day.
Another early example of Cimbria SS, showing its Mangusta like rear hatch and signature gull-wing doors. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The enduring appeal of the Cimbria SS lies in its unique blend of style, performance, and the satisfaction of building something extraordinary with your own hands. It's a testament to Joe Palumbo's vision and the innovative spirit of the late 20th century kit car industry. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of custom builds, the Cimbria offers a journey into automotive history and a chance to own a piece of that legacy. | 7zfIgMajSb4 |
Imagine driving a car that captures the imagination of everyone who sees it, a car that embodies the creativity and passion of its maker. The Cimbria SS is more than just a vehicle; it's a symbol of ingenuity and the timeless allure of custom automotive design.
So, next time you see a car that looks like a million bucks, remember the Cimbria SS and the remarkable story behind its creation. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary things come from the simplest beginnings. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RARECOMPONENTCARS | DAILYTURISMO ]
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Rare ONES - The allure of 1950s cars continues to captivate automotive enthusiasts today. These vintage beauties exude a timeless charm, thanks in part to the meticulous care bestowed upon them by knowledgeable owners.
1955 Chrysler (Ghia) Falcon Concept designed by Virgil Exner and built in collaboration between Chrysler and Ghia. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
The narrative of one such captivating vehicle unfolds with the entry of Virgil Exner into Chrysler's Advanced Design Studio in 1949, after his tenure at Studebaker. This pivotal move birthed the Chrysler Falcon, a collaborative masterpiece between Chrysler and Ghia, the renowned Italian coachwork company.
1955 Chrysler (Ghia) Falcon Concept has similar in size to both its rivals of the Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Thunderbird. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
The Falcon emerged as a prototype two-seater roadster-style concept car envisioned for Chrysler's 1955 lineup. While it never transitioned to mass production, its innovative design elements found their way into subsequent Chrysler models, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history.
1955 Chrysler (Ghia) Falcon Concept is equipped with a 276 cubic-inch OHV V8 engine, which can produce up to 170 hp (127 kW) of power and 346 Nm (255 lbs-ft) of torque. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Among the Falcon's groundbreaking features was its open-sided exhaust pipe design, a futuristic touch that foreshadowed trends not realized until decades later, notably in the 1992 Dodge Viper.
1955 Chrysler (Ghia) Falcon Concept's interior featured a split bench style seat finished in burgundy
leather, with a floor mounted shifter for the two-speed PowerFlite
transmission and a Nardi wooden steering wheel. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Originally intended as the moniker for Plymouth's new Valiant model, the name 'Falcon' was preempted by Ford Motor Company's release of the Ford Falcon, following a formal request by Henry Ford II.
The open-sided exhaust system is one of advanced features pinned on the Chrysler (Ghia) Falcon Concept. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Positioned as a contender against the Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Thunderbird, the Chrysler Falcon boasted a 276 cubic-inch OHV V8 engine generating power of 170 hp (127 kW) and 346 Nm (255 lbs-ft) of torque, paired with a two-speed automatic transmission. Performance-wise, the Falcon reached a top speed of approximately 115 mph, accomplishing the zero-to-sixty sprint in about 10 seconds—a commendable feat for its era.
1955 Chrysler (Ghia) Falcon Concept is equipped by many of the design and styling elements would later be seen in various other Chrysler vehicles. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Inside, the Falcon's interior showcased a split bench-style seat swathed in luxurious burgundy leather, complemented by a floor-mounted shifter for the PowerFlite transmission and an elegant Nardi wooden steering wheel.
1955 Chrysler (Ghia) Falcon Concept was meant to be a competitor to the Ford Thunderbird and the Chevrolet Corvette. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
While initially believed to have only one prototype in existence, it was later revealed that Ghia had crafted three Falcon prototypes. One resides in the Chrysler Museum, another found a home with a collector in the US, and the third embarked on a journey to Venezuela before returning stateside.
The legacy of the Chrysler Falcon endures as a testament to automotive innovation and timeless design, captivating enthusiasts with its enduring beauty and historical significance. *** [EKA [28112024] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CONCEPTCARZ.COM ]
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Unique ONES - The Lamborghini and Ferrari brands are iconic in the world of luxury and performance cars. Both hail from Italy, a country renowned for its rich automotive heritage. The story of these two giants is deeply intertwined with rivalry and innovation, each pushing the other to new heights of engineering and design excellence.
The Lamborghini and Ferrari both are Italian famous premium auto makers and also known as rival one each other in the world's automotive industry since the 1960s. (Picture from: id.Phoneky)
Ferrari was the first to emerge on the scene, founded by Enzo Anselmo Ferrari in 1929. Ferrari quickly became a symbol of speed and sophistication. In 1964, however, Ferruccio Lamborghini launched the Lamborghini 350 GT, marking the start of a fierce competition between the two brands.
A disassembled Ferrari 250 GTE at the Lamborghini Museum might be Ferruccio's personal car, connected to the stories surrounding the founding of the Lamborghini car company in the 1960s. The tale began when Ferruccio complained to Enzo Ferrari about the clutch in this car.(Picture from: SCMP)
Ferruccio Lamborghini was a successful entrepreneur before venturing into the automotive industry. He initially made his fortune through a tractor manufacturing company. As his wealth grew, he indulged in a passion for high-performance cars, one of which was the Ferrari 250 GTE. This car, however, led to a pivotal moment in automotive history.
The Lamborghini 350 GT was the company's first production model, and debuted at the 1964 Geneva Auto Show.(Picture from: Otoblitz)
After experiencing issues with his Ferrari's transmission, Ferruccio approached Enzo Ferrari with a complaint. Enzo's dismissive response—that Ferruccio was merely a tractor maker with no understanding of race cars—spurred Ferruccio to prove him wrong. This challenge catalyzed the creation of Automobili Lamborghini in 1963, based in Sant'Agata Bolognese.
The
Lamborghini 350 GT was a triumph, featuring a body constructed by
Carrozzeria Touring using their patented 'Superleggera' method.(Picture from: LamboCars)
Determined to compete with Ferrari, Ferruccio Lamborghini assembled a team of top talents, including Giotto Bizzarrini, who had designed many Ferrari engines, and engineers Giampaolo Dallara and Giampaolo Stanzani. He also recruited test driver Bob Wallace. Their collaboration led to the creation of Lamborghini's first prototype, the 350 GTV, which debuted in May 1963.
1963 Lamborghini 350 GTV was a Lamborghini prototype and forerunner of its first production model named Lamborghini 350 GT. (Picture from: TopSpeed)
The Lamborghini 350 GTV featured a 3,500 cc V12 engine designed by Bizzarrini, capable of producing 320 horsepower. This prototype was a statement of intent, showcasing Lamborghini's commitment to high-performance engineering. However, it was not suitable for mass production. Dallara and Stanzani quickly set about redesigning it for the consumer market, leading to the launch of the Lamborghini 350 GT in March 1964 at the Geneva Auto Show.
Lamborghini 350 GTV was very sleek and streamlined, with a very low hood that incorporated one of the better pop-up headlight designs of all time. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The 350 GT was a triumph, featuring a body constructed by Carrozzeria Touring using their patented 'Superleggera' method, which involved affixing aluminum alloy panels to a tubular structure. The car measured 4,640 mm in length, 1,730 mm in width, and 1,220 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,550 mm. It boasted independent four-wheel suspensions, a differential Salisbury, and vacuum servo-assisted Girling disc brakes. The 350 GT could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (60 mph) in just 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 254 km/h (158 mph).
Lamborghini 350 GTV used a Bizzarini's 3,500 cc V12 engine that produces 320 hp of power. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The production of the Lamborghini 350 GT was limited to 120 units before it was succeeded by the Lamborghini 400 GT in 1966. Some of the 350 GTs were later fitted with the larger 4.0-liter engine from the 400 GT, further enhancing their performance.
Lamborghini 400 GT received a larger 3,9 liter version of the engine built by Giotto Bizzarrini and tuned for the new model by Gian Paolo Dallara. (Picture from: Forum Forza)
The rivalry between Lamborghini and Ferrari has continued to drive innovation and excellence in the automotive industry. This competition has led to the creation of some of the most remarkable sports cars in history, each brand striving to outdo the other in terms of speed, design, and technological advancement.
Today, Lamborghini and Ferrari are synonymous with luxury, performance, and prestige. Their storied pasts and ongoing rivalry ensure that both brands remain at the forefront of automotive innovation. This competition, born out of a moment of personal affront, has fueled decades of progress and excitement, captivating car enthusiasts around the world. As long as there are roads to drive and dreams to chase, the saga of Lamborghini and Ferrari will continue to inspire and thrill. *** [EKA [11082019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | SCMP | LAMBOCARS | TOPSPEED | FORUM FORZA ]
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Forgotten ONES - In the annals of automotive history, few cars capture the imagination quite like the Ford GT70. Born from an era of fierce competition and relentless innovation, the GT70 stands out not just for its performance but for its design. A unique and sometimes overlooked chapter in Ford's history, the GT70's transformation under the guidance of Filippo Sapino at the Ford Design Europe studio in Turin, realized by the newly acquired Carrozzeria Ghia (acquired by Ford in 1970), called Ford GT70 Torino Concept showcases a blend of engineering prowess and aesthetic brilliance.
The Ford GT70 Torino Concept, crafted as a showcase vehicle in 1971, utilizes the chassis from the 6th 1970 Ford GT70 racer. (Picture from: ArchivioPrototipi)
This remarkable car emerged from Ford's ambitious attempt to dominate the World Rally Championship, embodying the company's dedication to pushing boundaries in both function and form. As we all know, in 1970, Ford embarked on a mission to create a rally car that could compete with the best in the field, including formidable opponents like the Porsche 911 S Coupé and the Renault Alpine A110 1600.
The initial design of the GT70 featured a mid-engine layout and rear-wheel drive, crafted by Ercole Spada and developed by Len Bailey, a key figure behind the iconic Ford GT40. The car crafted only six units, initially powered by a 2.6-liter V6 Colonia engine from the Ford Capri RS2600, producing an impressive 240 horsepower.
Here is a press sketch of the Ford GT70 Torino Concept by Filippo Sapino. (Picture from: CarDesignArchive)
However, the journey of the GT70 was fraught with challenges. The car struggled with chassis rigidity, a high center of gravity, and a cramped cockpit, which hampered its performance in the grueling conditions of rally racing. Despite these issues, Ford remained committed to refining the GT70, experimenting with different configurations, including replacing the heavy V6 engine with a lighter Cosworth BDA inline-four engine. These modifications aimed to improve the car's balance and handling, crucial for success in rallying.
The Ford GT70 Torino Concept debuted a blend of performance and elegance at the 1971 Turin Motor Show.(Picture from: ArchivioPrototipi)
Amidst these developments, the design of the GT70 caught the eye of Filippo Sapino, a talented designer at Ford Design Europe. Sapino's vision for the GT70 was to transform it from a pure rally car into a concept that showcased both performance and elegance. This vision culminated in a one-off concept car that was unveiled at the 1971 Turin Motor Show. The Ford GT70 Torino Concept designed by Filippo Sapino was built based on the sixth 1970 Ford GT70 racer, making it a unique blend of rally heritage and innovative design.
Filippo Sapino, an adept designer at Ford Design Europe, envisioned transforming the GT70 from a rally car into a concept highlighting both performance and elegance. (Picture from: ArchivioPrototipi)
Sapino's design for the GT70 concept was nothing short of revolutionary. He envisioned an angular and sleek body that exuded a sense of modernity and sophistication. The car featured a distinctive flat decklid and faux fastback buttresses, creating a streamlined profile that was both aggressive and refined. Alloy wheels from the Ford RS2000 complemented the design, adding to its sporty and dynamic appearance.
The interior of the GT70 Torino Concept reflected the practical needs of rally drivers while incorporating elements of luxury and comfort. (Picture from: Carstylingru)
Underneath its stunning exterior, the GT70 Torino Concept retained the core elements that made it a formidable rally car. The chassis was designed to offer a balance between weight and rigidity, by using components from existing Ford models like the Taunus and Cortina. The brakes, sourced from the Mark IV Zephyr, ensured reliable stopping power, essential for high-speed racing.
The inclusion of alloy wheels from the Ford RS2000 enhanced the sporty and dynamic appearance of the Ford GT70 Torino Concept design. (Picture from: ArchivioPrototipi)
The interior of the GT70 Torino Concept reflected the practical needs of rally drivers while incorporating elements of luxury and comfort. The simple cockpit, developed with input from renowned rally drivers like Roger Clark, Hannu Mikkola, and Timo Makinen, was designed to provide maximum functionality. Despite the focus on practicality, Sapino infused the interior with touches of elegance, making it a pleasant space for both racing and regular driving.
The
Ford GT70 Torino Concept featured a distinctive flat decklid and faux
fastback buttresses, creating a streamlined profile that was both
aggressive and refined. (Picture from: ArchivioPrototipi)
The 1971 Turin Motor Show debut of the GT70 Concept was a moment of pride for Ford and a highlight of Sapino's career. The car drew significant attention for its bold design and innovative features, standing out in a sea of automotive marvels. It represented Ford's ability to push the boundaries of design and engineering, merging the worlds of high-performance rallying and stylish road cars.
The Ford GT70 Torino Concept's chassis was designed to offer a balance between weight and rigidity, by using components from existing Ford models like the Taunus and Cortina. (Picture from: Carstylingru)
While the GT70 project ultimately did not achieve the racing success Ford had hoped for, the concept designed by Filippo Sapino left a lasting legacy. It showcased the potential of combining advanced engineering with cutting-edge design, inspiring future generations of automotive designers and engineers.
The Ford GT70 Torino Concept, powered by a lighter Cosworth BDA inline-four engine and equipped with brakes sourced from the Mark IV Zephyr, ensured reliable stopping power crucial for high-speed racing.(Picture from: Carstylingru)
The story of the 1971 Ford GT70 Torino Concept designed by Filippo Sapino is a testament to the power of vision and creativity in the automotive industry. It highlights how a car, initially conceived for the rough and tumble world of rally racing, can be transformed into a design icon. Today, the GT70 Concept remains a cherished piece of Ford's history, a symbol of the company's innovative spirit and dedication to excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOEVOLUTION | SECRET-CLASSICS | WIKIPEDIA | LOTUSESPRITTURBO | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | ARCHIVIOPROTOTIPI | CARSTYLING.RU | CARDESIGNARCHIVE | STORY-CARS ]
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Once UponA Time - It began with curiosity about the car pictured below, rumored to be a Puma kit car, but to this day, its exact identity remains unknown. Any idea, what car is this? Regardless, as we all know, Italy, renowned for its culinary delights, hospitality, and stunning landscapes, also boasts a rich history in the automotive industry, particularly known for its exotic cars.
It began with curiosity about this car, rumored to be a Puma kit car, but to this day, its exact identity remains unknown.(Picture from: Autopuzzles)
This car wasn't just a showpiece; it was a laboratory on wheels, a testing ground for innovations that would later become standard in everyday cars. The car's torpedo-like design influenced future models, such as the Ford Thunderbird of the 1960s, leaving a lasting impact on automotive design. 
This car, with its three names and many groundbreaking features, represents a significant chapter in automotive history. It not only showcased the technological advancements of its time but also influenced the design and functionality of future vehicles. The legacy of the Lincoln Continental 1950-X, Ford X-100, and Lincoln Typhoon lives on, a symbol of an era when the future of automobiles was being shaped with each innovative idea. *** [EKA [09102020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THEHENRYFORD.ORG | CARSTYLING.RU | MACMOTORCITYGARAGE ]
