Racing Legends - In the world of classic racing cars, there's a gem that often doesn't get the spotlight it deserves—the Tojeiro EE-Ford Endurance Racing Coupe. This beauty from the early 1960s holds a special place in the heart of racing enthusiasts, especially those familiar with the legacy of Ecurie Ecosse, the Scottish racing team founded by David Murray and Wilkie Wilkinson.
The Tojeiro EE-Ford Endurance Racing Coupe, meticulously crafted for the Ecurie Ecosse fleet, bore the hallmark expertise of John Tojeiro, a revered specialist in 1960s competition car construction. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
When David Murray decided to add another racing marvel to the Ecurie Ecosse fleet, he turned to the expertise of John Tojeiro, a renowned specialist in competition car construction. The result? A masterpiece built on the foundation of Tojeiro's Formula Junior chassis, tailored and reinforced to create a formidable rear-engined coupe. The car made its debut on the racing scene in 1962, destined for the iconic Le Mans 24 Hours race.
The Tojeiro EE-Ford Endurance Racing Coupe made its debut on the racing scene in 1962, destined for the iconic Le Mans 24 Hours race. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
Under the distinctive Ecurie Ecosse colors, two of these beauties were primed for Le Mans glory. However, fate had different plans for each. While one was equipped with a Coventry Climax engine and a Cooper Monaco transmission, its sibling boasted an aluminum 3.5-liter Buick V8 paired with a Corvair transaxle, later upgraded to a powerful 289 Ford engine. These cars weren't just about raw power; they were a blend of artistry and engineering finesse.
The Tojeiro EE-Ford Endurance Racing Coupe was constructed on the basis of Tojeiro's Formula Junior chassis, meticulously tailored and reinforced to birth a formidable rear-engined coupe.(Picture from: BringATrailer)
The journey to Le Mans wasn't without its challenges. With meticulous attention to detail, Stan Sproat, Ecurie Ecosse's best senior mechanic, worked tirelessly to ensure both cars were race-ready. The clock ticked ominously as the transporter embarked on its journey, carrying unpainted cars and a mission fueled by passion and determination.
The interior of the Tojeiro EE-Ford Endurance Racing Coupe exudes a cool vibe but feels somewhat claustrophobic, with modern fire suppression being the only known upgrade amidst a realm of mysteries. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Despite the last-minute rush, the Tojeiro EE-Ford made its mark at Le Mans, showcasing impressive speed and agility until an unfortunate gearbox issue halted its progress. The season wasn't over yet; the car found itself on the Monza circuit, chasing speed records with Jack Fairman behind the wheel. Although mechanical woes cut the attempt short, the car's potential was evident, hitting a record-breaking 152 mph.
Only two cars were ever built, intended to compete in the 24 hours of Le Mans 1962 under Ecurie Ecosse's colors, yet their destinies took divergent paths. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
As the seasons unfolded, the Tojeiro EE-Ford continued to mesmerize on the racing circuits. From Jackie Stewart's triumphs to Doug Graham's valiant efforts, each race added a chapter to its storied history. Even a transformation into a spyder variant couldn't dull its shine, as Bill Stein's skillful handling proved at Silverstone and Brands Hatch, surviving a harrowing crash with resilience that mirrored the car's enduring spirit.
The Tojeiro EE-Ford Endurance Racing Coupe was subsequently fully dismantled and entrusted to restoration specialists Crosthwaite & Gardiner, who meticulously rebuilt and reinforced the multi-tubular chassis and integrated its original roof into the overall reconstruction. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
Today, with the skilled hands of restoration experts such as Crosthwaite & Gardiner, this racing icon continues its legacy. Painstakingly disassembled and rebuilt, retaining its original roof, the Tojeiro EE-Ford stands as a testament to an era where passion and innovation forged legends.
Enthusiasts, beholding this restored marvel, aren't just seeing a car; they're immersed in a narrative of speed, ambition, and the tireless quest for racing supremacy. This essence reverberates in the retro-styled supercar, Ecurie Ecosse LM69, embodying a timeless spirit of automotive excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BONHAM | BRINGATRAILER | PISTONSANDWHEELS | CLASSICDRIVER ]
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ONE-OFF - Maybe all this time you know Ferraris as sports cars with a sensational and sexy appearance, so you might not recognize the figure of this classic Ferrari car. Indeed, this one-of-a-kind in the world is called Ferrari Uovo, or Ferrari 166MM/212 Export ‘Uovo’ for its full name.
1950 Ferrari 166MM/212 Export ‘Uovo' has shown off at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2019. (Picture from: Sun)
Ferrari Uovo boasts unique looks and styling, or can be said to be eccentric. This car is a one-off project from an Italian coachbuilder named Carrozzeria Fontana, based on a Ferrari 166MM classic car platform. After it crashed in its first attempt, its original buyers, the Marzotto brothers, decided to rebuild it in this form. The result is a unique car shaped like an egg, or 'Uovo' in Italian.
Sculptor Franco Reggiani was the mastermind behind its special bodywork, creating a shape he likened to that of a plane without wings. This good-looker raced for the first time in 1951 and was powered by a 1.56-liter gasoline engine that produced up to 186 horsepower (138 kilowatts) and had a mileage of more than 341 miles (550 kilometers).
Front three quarter of 1950 Ferrari 166MM/212 Export ‘Uovo.' (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Armed with aerodynamic bodywork and drivetrain, the Uovo was very competitive and took part in the Mille Miglia and Giro di Sicilia in 1951. The car had the chance to lead the race before it was damaged and ultimately unable to continue.
If at that time Uovo had not experienced severe damage, it is very likely this car would have been the winner in those two prestigious racing events. The results could have been different, potentially leading Ferrari to build more of these cars in the future. Even so, this classic Ferrari remains a historic and iconic car, making it a special model for Ferrari collectors.
Dashboard view of 1950 Ferrari 166MM/212 Export ‘Uovo.' (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
In August 2017, this car was auctioned by RM Sotheby's at an event in Monterey, California. Initially, this car was expected to sell at a price of US $7 million, but it ultimately sold for $4.5 million, making it one of the world's most expensive cars. WOW!😲
The Ferrari Uovo is more than just a unique vehicle; it’s a testament to the innovative spirit of Ferrari and the craftsmanship of Carrozzeria Fontana and Franco Reggiani. Its distinctive design and racing pedigree make it a standout in the history of automotive engineering. Even after several decades, the Uovo continues to captivate car enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Rear right side view of 1950 Ferrari 166MM/212 Export ‘Uovo.' (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Owning a piece of history like the Ferrari Uovo is a dream for many, and its story continues to inspire those passionate about classic cars and racing heritage. The legacy of the Uovo lives on, reminding us of the timeless allure of Ferrari and the incredible feats of engineering that have defined the brand over the years.
As we look back on the remarkable journey of the Ferrari Uovo, it’s clear that this car represents more than just a mode of transportation. It embodies the passion, creativity, and relentless pursuit of excellence that have come to define Ferrari. This unique vehicle will always be celebrated as a remarkable chapter in the storied history of one of the world’s most iconic automotive manufacturers. *** [EKA [16072019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SUN | INDEPENDENT ]
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⛔Rare GEMS💣 - The Porsche 356 Carrera Zagato Coupé 'Sanction Lost' is a rare gem in automotive history, with only two examples ever built. The story of these cars traces back to 1957 when Porsche racing driver Claude Storez approached Italian coachbuilder Zagato.
The Porsche 356 Carrera Zagato Coupé 'Sanction Lost' (in pictured model was built from a 1961 Porsche 356 B Coupe) is a rare gem in automotive history, with only two examples ever built. (Picture from: Silodrome)
His aim was to create a lighter, more aerodynamic body for his 1957 Porsche 356 Carrera Speedster. Storez, known as a "Prince Among Racers," had a remarkable career in the 1950s, showcasing his talent in various European and North African races. Despite driving smaller cars, he often outperformed more powerful vehicles, leaving a lasting impression on the racing world.
American car collector Herb Wetanson's initiative to revive the Carrera Zagato's beautiful styling ensured that the model, which would have been lost to history, returned for a very limited production run with Zagato.(Picture from: Silodrome)
The collaboration between Storez and Zagato marked the beginning of a journey that spanned over six decades, culminating in the completion of the final "Sanction Lost" example in 2017. This project was a testament to Storez's vision and Zagato's craftsmanship.
The interior has just the bare essentials to keep weight down for racing, with a steering wheel, shifter, three pedals, and the essential gauges. (Picture from: Silodrome)
The original Porsche 356 Carrera Speedster modified by Zagato featured a new alloy body that not only enhanced its aesthetics but also improved its performance on the track. Its debut race at the Reims circuit stage of the Tour de France showcased its speed and agility, earning Storez a second-place finish.
Each of 18 cars would be built using a Porsche 356 as their starting point just like the original, however only three of the cars would have the Porsche Carrera engine fitted – just like Storez. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Tragically, Storez's promising career was cut short in a fatal crash at the Thillois hairpin during a race at Reims in 1959. The car involved in the accident vanished thereafter, sparking speculations about its fate.
Zagato dubbed the cars "Sanction Lost" and produced a total of 18 units, comprising 9 open-top Speedsters and 9 coupes, with only one Speedster and two coupes receiving Porsche Carrera engines. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Fast forward to the 2010s, when American car collector Herb Wetanson approached Zagato with the idea of reviving the Porsche Zagato Speedster. This initiative led to the creation of 18 replicas, including nine Speedsters and nine Coupes, meticulously crafted using period photographs and original concept drawings.
One of the Carrera Zagato's most memorable features was its twin red fins on the rear, which were added to enhance high-speed stability. (Picture from: Silodrome)
One of these replicas, built from a 1961 Porsche 356 B Coupe, stands as a tribute to Storez's legacy. Its Zagato body, red leather front seats, and meticulous details capture the essence of the original concept. The car comes with a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity and a collection of historical documents, adding to its allure.
In essence, the Porsche 356 Carrera Zagato Coupé 'Sanction Lost' represents the convergence of passion, innovation, and timeless design in the world of classic automobiles. Its resurrection pays homage to a racing icon and continues to captivate enthusiasts with its unique blend of history and performance. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAGATO | SILODROME | CLASSICDRIVER | MOTOR1 ]
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⛔ Hidden GEMS 💣 - In the vibrant landscape of 1960s automobile design, the allure of Italian aesthetics captured the imagination of many, including American car manufacturers. Among them, Ford took a distinctive approach by infusing Italian design sensibilities into one of their classic models. The result was the Ford Thunderbird 'Italien' Concept Car, a masterpiece that embodied the elegance and innovation of its era.
1963 Ford Thunderbird 'Italien' Concept Car heavily inspired by Italian design and done by its own team. (Picture from: TradeUniqueCars)
Ford's ambition to blend Italian flair with American ingenuity led to the creation of the Thunderbird 'Italien.' The initial design phase was driven by the Thunderbird styling department, where designers meticulously crafted a clay model over a plywood buck. This hands-on approach allowed for a seamless translation of the concept's vision into a tangible vehicle. To bring this vision to life, Ford collaborated with DTS, a contractor known for constructing many of the era's concept cars.
1963 Ford Thunderbird 'Italien' Concept Car appeared with a unique fastback roof and made of fiberglass and then chrome plated. (Picture from: TradeUniqueCars)
The 1963 Thunderbird 'Italien' emerged as a stunning representation of cross-cultural design. Its sleek fastback roof, a hallmark of Italian influence, was harmoniously integrated with the robust American framework. The car boasted the revered 390FE V8 engine, equipped with the unique M code T-Bird tri-power carburetor setup, blending performance with elegance.
1963 Ford Thunderbird 'Italien' Concept Car beautified with an interior that is entirely covered with red genuine-leather to matches the exterior appearance which is painted in the same color. (Picture from: TradeUniqueCars)
Despite its initial fate as a show car destined for scrapping, the Thunderbird 'Italien' found a savior in actor Dale Robertson. Robertson, enamored by its design, acquired the vehicle and soon passed it on to his gardener, William Warner. Warner cherished the car for several years before selling it to Joe Navaro, an insurance salesman, in 1974. Navaro repainted it metallic blue and used it as his daily driver, adding to its storied history.
The car's next chapter began when Ford collector Don Chambers recognized its rarity and historical significance. After years of persistence, Chambers acquired the vehicle in 1989. By then, the car had suffered from exposure to the elements, requiring significant restoration. In 2005, Chambers, facing health issues, sold the car, setting the stage for its ultimate revival.
1963 Ford Thunderbird 'Italien Concept Car' featured the 390FE V8 with the unique M code T-Bird tri-power carburetor setup. (Picture from: TradeUniqueCars)
Enter Tom Maruska, a renowned specialist in restoring 'Bullet Birds' and rare concept cars, brought a wealth of expertise and passion for automotive history to the Thunderbird 'Italien.' Known for his meticulous craftsmanship, Maruska had already restored the Mercury XM-800
concept and was working on the Mercury Turnpike concept at the time. In February 2006, he traveled from Duluth, Minnesota, to Los Angeles, where he struck a deal to bring the car back to his shop.
The restoration process was a testament to Maruska's dedication. Despite the car being largely intact and rust-free, it had layers of wear that needed addressing. One of the most challenging aspects was recreating a missing piece of fiberglass molding. When an LA shop owner demanded an exorbitant price for the original part, Maruska chose to handcraft a new piece from metal, demonstrating his commitment to authenticity.
1963 Ford Thunderbird 'Italien' Concept Car had 72 coats of paint that required six applications of aircraft stripper to get down to the metal and fiberglass; all trim was restored. (Picture from: TradeUniqueCars)
Maruska's restoration efforts were exhaustive. The car's paint required multiple applications of aircraft stripper to reach the original metal and fiberglass. He painstakingly restored each trim piece and reupholstered the interior by hand. The Plexiglass windows, integral to the car's distinctive look, were restored by a specialist, ensuring that every detail was as close to the original as possible.
Today, the Thunderbird 'Italien' stands as a beautiful testament to the fusion of American engineering and Italian design. Its journey from a concept car to a cherished collector's item highlights the passion and dedication of those who recognized its unique value. The restoration by Tom Maruska not only preserved a piece of automotive history but also celebrated the ingenuity and creativity that defined an era.
As the Thunderbird 'Italien' continues to capture the hearts of car enthusiasts, it serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal of innovative design and the enduring legacy of those who strive to preserve it. The story of this remarkable car is a fitting tribute to a bygone era, where the blend of cultural influences created something truly extraordinary. *** [EKA [14052020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MECUM | TRADEUNIQUECARS ]
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ONE-OFF- Ferrari, the iconic supercar manufacturer, embodies everything quintessential about Italian sports cars: passion, emotion, beauty, and speed. Renowned for its history of both road and racing cars, Ferrari has introduced countless stunning models over the years. However, not all models made it to the production line, with many remaining as tantalizing concept cars.
1969 Ferrari 512S Berlinetta Speciale concept car whose entire development work was done by Pininfarina and launched for the first time at the Turin Motor Show 1969. (Picture from: Pinterest)
Concept cars often remain just that—concepts. Occasionally, they inspire production vehicles that capture the imagination even more beautifully. Sometimes, special designers take the liberty to create new Ferraris that, unfortunately, remain within the realms of their imagination.
One such concept is the Ferrari 512S Berlinetta Speciale, a project developed entirely by Pininfarina and unveiled at the 1969 Turin Motor Show. This visionary concept was the brainchild of Filippo Sapino, a design director at Ghia for three decades. His most striking work during his brief tenure at Pininfarina in the late 1960s was undoubtedly this Ferrari concept car.
Uniquely, not an ordinary door system but a canopy flip-up is used to access the cabin of 1969 Ferrari 512S Berlinetta Speciale concept car. (Picture from: Pinterest)
The 512S Berlinetta Speciale was the first Ferrari concept car to employ a wedge-shaped design, setting a trend in car design that would define the 1970s. The name '512S' might be misleading, as the car did not feature a 5.0-liter V12 under its rear clamshell grille. Instead, it was based on the 312P, although it did not carry the 3.0-liter 12-cylinder engine, but rather a 6.0-liter engine from the 612 Can-Am. Unfortunately, this concept car was not drivable since the engine block lacked internal components. Perhaps one day, a complete engine might bring this stunning vehicle to life on the streets.
1969 Ferrari 512S Berlinetta Speciale concept car's interior view with right-hand steering wheel and 5-speed manual transmission. (Picture from: Facebook)
Despite not being a functional vehicle, Sapino made the most of the chassis' floor-hugging physique, incorporating unorthodox surface treatments to give the car a visually dynamic, almost supersonic appearance. A unique feature of this concept car is its canopy flip-up system, allowing access to the cabin—an innovative design element later used in another 512S concept, the 1970 Ferrari 512S Modulo designed by Paulo Martin.
1969 Ferrari 512S Berlinetta Speciale concept car features a mid-mounted 6.0-liter V12 engine from a 612 Can-Am racer. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The design of the 512S Berlinetta Speciale significantly diverged from previous Pininfarina models, such as the Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale designed by Leonardo Fioravanti in 1968. While only one example of the 512S Berlinetta Speciale was made, its impact on Ferrari's design philosophy was profound.
The angular design of the 512S Berlinetta Speciale marked a departure from Ferrari's earlier, more curvaceous styles. This concept set the stage for future models like the 365 GTC/4 and the Berlinetta Boxers, both also designed by Sapino. Ferrari's bold experimentation with design during this era highlights the company's commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of automotive aesthetics.
Ferrari continues to be a symbol of innovation, constantly evolving while staying true to its core values of passion, performance, and beauty. The 512S Berlinetta Speciale remains a testament to Ferrari's willingness to explore new horizons and redefine the limits of car design. As the brand looks to the future, it is these daring concepts that remind us of the endless possibilities in the world of automotive excellence. *** [EKA [17082020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER.COM | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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Unique ONES - The 1950s marked an iconic era brimming with distinctive design elements that remain recognizable even today. This decade saw fashion, automobiles, and other facets of daily life heavily influenced by technological advancements. One exemplary product of this era was the Oldsmobile Golden Rocket, a car that embodied the futuristic vision of the 1950s. Its design, both radical and mesmerizing, continues to astonish enthusiasts even after more than half a century.
The Oldsmobile Golden Rocket, a car that embodied the futuristic vision of the 1950s. (Picture from: ViaRetro)
Introduced at the GM Motorama in 1956, the Golden Rocket captured imaginations with its extraordinary design. This vehicle looked like a blend between a jet aircraft and the whimsical spaceships from the Jetsons. Its rear bumper was reminiscent of rockets, and the futuristic aesthetic extended along the sides and into the bullet-shaped, high-set headlights.
1956 Pontiac Club de Mer (front) sat along with the Oldsmobile Golden Rocket at the 1956 GM Motorama. (Picture from: CarDesignNews)
Interestingly, these weren’t functional headlights but chromed covers, a liberty often taken with concept cars. While most images of this show car are in black and white, its fiberglass body was originally painted in a dazzling bronze metallic, emphasizing the glitzy, forward-looking design of the time.
The Oldsmobile Golden Rocket looked like a blend between a jet aircraft and the whimsical spaceships from the Jetsons. (Picture from: ViaRetro)
The interior of the Golden Rocket was equally extravagant. It featured blue and gold leather, creating a striking two-seater cabin. A large speedometer was centrally positioned within the steering wheel, which boasted a unique button-controlled tilt mechanism for easier access. This innovation was ahead of its time and reflected the era's fascination with combining convenience and futuristic design.
The Oldsmobile Golden Rocket boasts a supersonic sleekness that excites the most spirited imagination, adorned with an ultra-low posture and dramatic power, featuring breathtaking new ideas throughout. (Picture from: ViaRetro)
Opening the doors of the Golden Rocket was an experience in itself. The doors were designed with two components: the main door and an automatic roof panel that rose upon opening. This feature was reminiscent of gull-wing doors, further facilitating cabin access. Additionally, the seats would rise three inches and swivel 45 degrees, ensuring that entering the car was as effortless as possible, embodying the futuristic ideals of comfort and ease.
The interior of the Golden Rocket was equally extravagant, featured a large speedometer was centrally positioned within the steering wheel. (Picture from: ViaRetro)
Underneath its spectacular exterior, the Golden Rocket was powered by an enhanced 324 cu. in. V8 engine, delivering an impressive 275 horsepower. This power was transmitted through a standard GM automatic gearbox to a conventional rear-wheel-drive system.
Its rear bumper was reminiscent of rockets, and the futuristic aesthetic extended along the sides and into the bullet-shaped, high-set headlights. (Picture from: ViaRetro)
Despite its advanced features, the Golden Rocket remained grounded in reliable automotive technology of the time. Even though this car was once changed to blue, unfortunately, it has not
survived to this day. It is very likely that it was destroyed after it
retired from service, like most show cars of that time.
The 1956 Oldsmobile Golden Rocket, in its blue color, is pictured alongside Design Chief William Mitchell (on the right) at the General Motors Design Center in Warren, Michigan. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The Golden Rocket was conceived purely as a concept car, a vision of what the future of automotive design could hold. It traveled around the world, showcased at various exhibitions, and served as a gleaming example of innovation. Its journeys across exhibitions allowed people to glimpse what could be possible, stirring excitement and dreams of a dazzling automotive future.
The story of the Oldsmobile Golden Rocket is a fascinating chapter in the history of car design. It represents a time when creativity and technological optimism knew no bounds. Though it never went into production, its legacy lives on as a symbol of innovation and the adventurous spirit of the 1950s. As we look back, the Golden Rocket continues to inspire with its blend of futuristic design and imaginative engineering, a testament to the era's unbridled enthusiasm for the possibilities of tomorrow. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VIARETRO | CONCEPTCARZ | MOTOR1 | CARDESIGNNEWS | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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Enthusiasts, beholding this restored marvel, aren't just seeing a car; they're immersed in a narrative of speed, ambition, and the tireless quest for racing supremacy. This essence reverberates in the retro-styled supercar, Ecurie Ecosse LM69, embodying a timeless spirit of automotive excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BONHAM | BRINGATRAILER | PISTONSANDWHEELS | CLASSICDRIVER ]
