⚒️MAESTRO Legacy - When we think of Italian names in the automotive world, many renowned figures might come to mind. However, one name that might not be as familiar is Ilario Bandini. Born in 1911 in the small town of Forlì, Italy, Bandini grew up as the son of a farmer. Despite his humble beginnings and limited formal education—having only taken a mechanic course—he went on to become an influential figure in the world of motorsports and car manufacturing. His journey from a self-taught mechanic to a celebrated car builder is as remarkable as it is inspiring.
The
Bandini 750 Sport Siluro featured with a widened front fender and a
shrill loudly screaming 750cc engine managed to won the SCCA class
championships in 1955 and 1957. (Picture from: CarType)
ONE-OFF - The world of exotic cars is often celebrated for its blend of unique styling and cutting-edge engineering, but few examples capture this spirit as vividly as those crafted during the mid-20th century. In a fascinating era where American and Italian design philosophies intersected, European manufacturers eagerly responded to the growing demand for distinctive automobiles in the American market. This fusion of styles, known as Stile Transatlantico, produced some truly remarkable concept cars, with Alfa Romeo’s Berlina Aerodinamica Tecnica (B.A.T.) being a quintessential example of this creative era.
Today, this exceptional Abarth 209 A Coupé by Boano can be admired at the Louwman Museum in The Hague, Netherlands, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of automotive excellence. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
The allure of these exotic vehicles extends beyond their aesthetic appeal, reaching into the realm of engineering innovation. One of the standout figures from this period was Mario Felice Boano, an acclaimed designer known for his work with Carrozzeria Ghia. When Boano established his own carrozzeria in 1954, he sought to capitalize on the burgeoning American sports car market. Partnering with the renowned exhaust specialist Carlo Abarth, Boano aimed to craft an Italian machine that would cater specifically to American tastes. Their collaboration was not new; Boano and Abarth had previously worked together during Boano's tenure at Ghia.
The Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano, a standout model in this series, was built around a simple yet effective boxed pressed-steel platform chassis. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
A particularly rare and intriguing creation from this collaboration was a series of cars built on the Fiat 1100 platform. Commissioned by Tony Pompeo, a New York-based distributor for Abarth and other Italian brands, this series consisted of twelve unique vehicles tailored for the American market. It included ten Abarth 207A Spyders, which were specifically designed for the 12 Hours of Sebring, as well as one each of the Abarth 208A Spyder and 209A Coupé intended for road use.
Inside the car, the driver enjoys a comfortable cockpit with an easy-to-read dashboard featuring a speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge, complemented by adjustable bucket seats for maximum support during high-performance driving. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
Each shared the same basic lines penned for Boano by Giovanni Michelotti. The 208A and 209A were unveiled at the 1955 Turin Motor Show, where they were displayed alongside the 207A, which had been introduced earlier that year. This showcase highlighted the exceptional design and engineering prowess of Boano and Abarth.
The Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano, powered by a modified Fiat 1100 four-cylinder engine, saw its output boosted from 36 to 66 horsepower through Abarth's tuning. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
The Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano, a standout model in this series, was built around a simple yet effective boxed pressed-steel platform chassis. While this chassis might not have been the most advanced of its time, it provided the flexibility needed to accommodate a variety of body styles. The 209A Coupé was particularly notable for its exotic design features, including high wheel arches, retractable headlights, a sporty stainless steel exhaust pipe on the right, and panoramic windows.
The
Abarth 209A Coupé by Boano was particularly notable for its exotic
design features, including high wheel arches, retractable headlights, a
sporty stainless steel exhaust pipe on the right, and panoramic windows. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
Underneath its striking exterior, the Abarth 209A Coupé housed a modified version of the Fiat 1100’s four-cylinder engine. Abarth's tuning boosted the engine's output from a modest 36 horsepower to a more robust 66 horsepower. Despite these enhancements, the car's wheelbase, length, and width remained consistent with its Spyder counterparts, while its height and curb weight were slightly increased to accommodate the coupe’s distinctive design elements. Today, this exceptional vehicle can be admired at the Louwman Museum in The Hague, Netherlands, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of automotive excellence. | E8UIK_ygV3U |
In reflecting on the legacy of these remarkable cars, it's clear that their creation was not merely about blending styles but about pushing the boundaries of automotive design. The partnership between Boano and Abarth stands as a testament to innovation and a deep understanding of the market's desires, showcasing how American and Italian influences can come together to create something truly extraordinary. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LOUWMANMUSEUM | COACHBUILD | ULTIMATECARPAGE | ROARONGTON | AUTOMOBILECATALOG ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
💪Unique ONES⚠️ - The Geneva Motor Show, renowned for its spectacular showcase of automotive innovations, has always been a magnet for car enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. However, the allure of this prestigious event extends beyond the well-known automotive giants. Even talented students from design schools are drawn to this global stage to display their creativity and skill. One notable example is the Espera Sbarro Montbéliard School of Design, which made a remarkable impression at the Geneva Motor Show 2013 with their innovative hybrid car.
The Sbarro Réact' E.V. raced at the 14th Monte Carlo Rally for New Energies.(Picture from: Sbarro)
The Espera Sbarro Montbéliard, known for pushing the boundaries of automotive design, presented their latest creation: the Sbarro Réact' E.V. This hybrid car, which was completed in just 13 weeks by a team of dedicated students, challenged perceptions about student-designed vehicles. The Réact' E.V. was not just a static display but a fully functional two-seater coupe, demonstrating impressive performance and design.
The Sbarro Réact' E.V., the automaker's first hybrid sports car, debuted at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
The car’s design immediately caught the eye of spectators. The sleek, futuristic lines and aerodynamic profile made it stand out among the more traditional offerings at the show. But the Sbarro Réact' E.V. was not just about looks; its hybrid powertrain was a testament to the students' engineering prowess.
The Sbarro Réact' E.V. was completed in just 13 weeks by a team of dedicated students of the Espera Sbarro Montbéliard School of Design.(Picture from: MotorAuthority)
Combining a Peugeot V6 engine with a hybrid system, the vehicle featured a rear-wheel drive powered by a 210 hp engine and front-wheel drive driven by two DC brushless motors. Each motor provided 100 kW of power and 553 lbs-ft of torque, with energy stored in a 24-kWh battery pack. The total power output of 484 hp showcased the car’s impressive performance capabilities.
Beautiful interior of the Sbarro Réact' E.V. with large central tunnel. (Picture from: Sbarro)
What set the Sbarro Réact' E.V. apart was its dual purpose: it was not only a concept car but also intended to participate in racing events. This blend of functionality and innovation highlighted the students' ambition to create something beyond a mere design study. The collaboration with several universities of technology further enhanced the project's credibility and technical expertise.
The Sbarro Réact' E.V. features a PSA V6 engine, supported by two electric motors.(Picture from: Sbarro)
The Réact' E.V.'s debut at the Geneva Motor Show exemplifies how educational institutions can contribute significantly to the automotive industry. By merging design with performance, the Espera Sbarro Montbéliard School of Design demonstrated that student projects could compete on the same stage as established manufacturers.
What set the Sbarro Réact' E.V. apart was its dual purpose: it was not only a concept car but also intended to participate in racing events.(Picture from: MotorAuthority)
Their work is a reminder that creativity and technical skills are not confined to industry veterans but are also nurtured in academic environments, In essence, the success of the Réact' E.V. at the Geneva Motor Show serves as an inspiration for both aspiring designers and established automakers. | cIWHRbl_yHQ | UFUNR486liM |
It proves that innovation and enthusiasm can lead to remarkable achievements, even in the competitive world of automotive design. The students' ability to deliver a working hybrid car in such a short time frame underscores the potential of young talent in shaping the future of the automotive industry. *** [EKA | FROM PREVIOUS SOURCES | ESPERA SBARRO MONTBELIARD | SBARRO | AUTOBLOG | MOTORAUTHORITY ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
Rare GEMS - In the world of automotive design, the 1970s were a period of bold experimentation and innovation. One of the most striking examples of this era is the Jaguar Ascot, a concept car that stood out with its distinctive wedge-shaped design. Revealed at the 1977 Turin Motor Show by Stile Bertone, the Ascot was a daring departure from traditional Jaguar aesthetics, capturing the essence of the 1970s with its futuristic lines and bold approach.
The Jaguar Ascot, a concept car that stood out with its distinctive wedge-shaped design by Stile Bertone, revealed at the 1977 Turin Motor Show. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)
The Jaguar Ascot was the brainchild of Marcello Gandini, the design chief at Bertone, known for his disruptive and avant-garde designs. His previous works, like the Lamborghini Countach, had already set a precedent for sharp, aggressive lines and innovative styling. The Ascot continued this design philosophy, featuring a sleek, wedge-like profile with straight lines and sharp edges. This design direction was a significant shift from the more rounded and flowing lines typically associated with Jaguar.
The
Jaguar Ascot was the brainchild of Marcello Gandini, the design chief
at Bertone, featuring a sleek, wedge-like profile with straight lines
and sharp edges similar to the Lamborghini Countach. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Retaining the mechanical heart of the Jaguar XJ-S, the Ascot was powered by a 5.3-liter V12 engine. This powertrain was paired with the same platform and wheelbase as the XJ-S, ensuring that the Ascot maintained the high-performance standards expected from a Jaguar. However, Gandini’s design made the Ascotshorter and lighter, enhancing its practicality without compromising on performance.
The
Jaguar Ascot's front was aggressive and thrusting, with a pronounced
overhang and sharp creases that gave it a dynamic, arrow-like
appearance. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
One of the standout features of the Ascot was its rakish hatchback design, a practical yet stylish choice that maximized rear passenger headroom and boot space. The front of the car was aggressive and thrusting, with a pronounced overhang and sharp creases that gave it a dynamic, arrow-like appearance. This bold styling was a clear reflection of the 1970s design ethos, where sharp angles and dramatic lines were celebrated.
Despite its striking design, the Ascot was a highly controversial car. Its departure from traditional Jaguar design elements caused quite a stir among purists and the press. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Despite its striking design, the Ascot was a highly controversial car. Its departure from traditional Jaguar design elements caused quite a stir among purists and the press. However, the Ascot’s influence extended beyond its initial reception. Several design elements from the Ascot, such as the wheel arches and fastback rear, were later seen in Gandini’s other works, including the Reliant FW11, the Citroen BX, and the Reliant SE82. This cross-pollination of design ideas underscored the Ascot’s impact on automotive design.
The interior of the Jaguar Ascot was a contemporary mix of light brown leather and brown suede, including a practical compartment on each door. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The Ascot’s design not only provided a unique aesthetic but also offered practical benefits. The fastback rear treatment significantly increased rear passenger headroom and boot space, making the Ascot more user-friendly while retaining its compact form. This blend of style and practicality was a hallmark of Gandini’s design approach, emphasizing that a car could be both beautiful and functional.
The fastback rear treatment significantly increased rear passenger headroom and boot space, making the Ascot more user-friendly while retaining its compact form. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The Jaguar Ascot remains a fascinating chapter in the history of automotive design. It represents a time when designers were unafraid to push boundaries and challenge conventions. The Ascot’s wedge-shaped profile, sharp lines, and innovative features encapsulate the spirit of the 1970s, a decade defined by bold creativity and a willingness to explore new ideas. | E9C8EzkmE68 |
The story of the Jaguar Ascot is one of innovation and bold design choices. It serves as a reminder of the importance of daring to be different, and how such boldness can lead to timeless designs that continue to inspire. The Ascot’s legacy lives on, not just in the cars that followed, but in the continued appreciation of 1970s design and its enduring impact on the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JAGUAR | MAGAZINE.DERIVAZ-IVES | CARDESIGNNEWS ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
NEW EV Concept - In a year marked by the introduction of various new electric vehicle concepts by prominent automakers, the buzz isn't merely due to industry chatter or a trend-following mentality. These unveilings signify a pivotal moment in the automotive world, where the future of electric-powered vehicles is becoming increasingly tangible. One of the most noteworthy debuts comes from Cadillac, a brand long synonymous with luxury and innovation.
The Cadillac Opulent Velocity stands as a testament to Cadillac's vision for the future of the V-Series, a series known for combining power and luxury in unparalleled ways. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
This year, Cadillac unveiled the Opulent Velocity, a hypercar concept that represents not just the brand's future in electric performance but also its leadership in EV technology and autonomous driving. The Opulent Velocity stands as a testament to Cadillac's vision for the future of the V-Series, a series known for combining power and luxury in unparalleled ways.
The Cadillac Opulent Velocity's low silhouette, modern front fascia, and large butterfly-type doors combine to create a futuristic, elegant, and sophisticated allure. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
From the first glance, the Opulent Velocity captivates with its striking design. The vehicle's low silhouette and modern front fascia give it a futuristic yet elegant appearance. Large butterfly-type doors enhance its allure, offering easy access to the cabin while maintaining an air of sophistication. The exterior design, with its smooth lines and balanced proportions, is further accentuated by Cadillac's signature vertical lighting. The 3D lighted grille adds a touch of modern elegance, while the Gilded Pearl exterior color exudes luxury.
The Cadillac Opulent Velocity's 3D lighted grille adds a touch of modern elegance, while the Gilded Pearl exterior color exudes luxury. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
Bryan Nesbitt, Executive Director of Global Cadillac Design, highlighted that the Opulent Velocity is more than just a car; it is an experiential design study. This concept blends cutting-edge technology with the hallmark luxury that Cadillac is known for. According to Nesbitt, the Opulent Velocity represents Cadillac's leadership in hands-free driving, electrification, and performance excellence, setting a new standard for the automotive industry.
Inside, the Opulent Velocity offers a truly immersive experience, incorporating scientific research on sound and light waves to create a personalized environment. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
One of the key aspects of the Opulent Velocity is its exploration of personal freedom through fully autonomous mobility. With Level 4 autonomous capability, the car offers a driving experience that engages all the senses in a serene environment. The experience is further enhanced by a full-width display and an Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (AR HUD), providing a sophisticated and futuristic interface that immerses the driver in the vehicle's capabilities.
The cabin is designed to engage all the senses, providing a calming yet stimulating space that is both luxurious and technologically advanced. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
Cadillac's approach to the Opulent Velocity extends beyond just the mechanics and technology. The brand has incorporated scientific research on sound and light waves into the cabin's design, creating a personalized and immersive environment. This environment is meticulously curated with art, entertainment, and ambient lighting that adapts to the driver's preferences, offering a truly unique driving experience.
The Cadillac Opulent Velocity exterior design, with its smooth lines and balanced proportions, is further accentuated by Cadillac's signature vertical lighting.(Picture from: MotorTrend)
For those who seek the thrill of high-performance driving, the Opulent Velocity offers the Velocity experience. This mode transforms the hypercar into a machine that delivers exhilarating driving dynamics while maintaining Cadillac's signature luxury. The transition from autonomous to high-performance mode is seamless, activated by a simple touch on the multi-function controller. In this mode, the steering wheel and pedals emerge, inviting the driver to take control and experience the car's full potential.
In back, vertical elements again illuminate outboard aerodynamic outlets, while an infinity-mirrored taillamp graphic spans and exaggerates the width of the car. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
The Velocity experience draws inspiration from Cadillac's race-proven Blackwing technology, offering features like the "Ghost Car" on the HUD display, which guides the driver on competitive tracks. Additionally, drivers can customize their experience with road overlays, active road condition information, and full control over suspension and active aerodynamics settings. These features ensure that the Opulent Velocity not only meets but exceeds the expectations of those who demand the ultimate in driving performance.
Drivers can experience Opulent Velocity in two ways: plush relaxation, complete with autonomous software, or blistering speed on the track. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
While the Cadillac Opulent Velocity envisions the future of luxury performance cars by blending engaging dynamics with autonomous driving, the American automaker has no plans to bring the Opulent Velocity into production.
As Cadillac continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the automotive industry, the Opulent Velocity stands as a bold statement of the brand's commitment to innovation, luxury, and performance. In a world rapidly embracing electric vehicles, Cadillac's Opulent Velocity is not just a car of the future—it's a car that redefines the future. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CADILLAC NEWS ROOM | CARBUZZ | MOTOR1 | CARANDDRIVER | TOPGEAR | MOTORTREND ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
ONE-OFF - The end of World War II in 1945 marked the beginning of a new chapter for the automotive industry. Factories, which had been dedicated to wartime production, shifted their focus back to creating vehicles for civilian use. This shift spurred significant advancements in both engineering and design, transforming the automotive landscape and fostering innovation and creativity globally.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano featured striking rear tailfins and bright, two-tone paint schemes, capturing the spirit of the 1950s American dream. (Picture from: RMSothebys)
In post-war America, the car market thrived with vibrant and dynamic designs. Influenced by the Space Race, cars of the era featured striking rear tailfins that resembled rockets and airplanes, with each year bringing more elaborate designs. The bright, two-tone paint schemes captured the spirit of the 1950s American dream, showcased by iconic models from Chevrolet, Pontiac, Cadillac, and Ford.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano designed by Giovanni Michelotti for Carrozzeria Boano, was crafted to appeal to the American market with its stylish looks. (Picture from: Carscoops)
European car manufacturers, eager to enter the American market, began creating unique concept cars with bold, space-age designs. This fusion of American and Italian styling became known as Stile Transatlantico, with Alfa Romeo’s Berlina Aerodinamica Tecnica (B.A.T.) cars being prime examples of this innovative approach.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano’s lightweight chassis and precise handling made it a true driver’s machine. (Picture from: Auto.cz)
Abarth, an automotive company founded in 1949, was keen to make a name for itself both in Italy and internationally. Embracing the Stile Transatlantico, Abarth in collaboration with Boano created a series of distinctive cars. Among them were the racing-oriented 207 ASpyder, the road-going208 A Spyder, and the 209 A Coupé. The 207 A had a limited production run of ten units, while the 208 A and 209 Awere unique one-offs. These cars were showcased at the 1955 Turin Motor Show, underscoring Boano and Abarth’s design and engineering prowess.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano features a unique custom exhaust header mounted on the right side of the car.(Picture from: Auto.cz)
The Abarth 208 A Spyder, designed by Giovanni Michelotti for Carrozzeria Boano, was crafted to appeal to the American market with its stylish looks. However, beneath its sleek exterior, the car retained a distinctly Italian character. It featured a lightweight chassis and a small yet powerful engine. Much of its mechanical components were derived from the Fiat 1100, including the suspension and a 1,089 cc four-cylinder engine. With Abarth’s tuning kit, which included twin-Weber carburetors and a custom exhaust header, the engine produced 66 bhp.
The Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano’s cabin features a three-spoke steering wheel, a dashboard with a set of gauges, and two seats covered in genuine black and creamy white leather, with the gear-shift lever positioned above a divider.(Picture from: Voi.id)
The 208 A Spyder found its way to the United States, imported by Tony Pompeo, a New York-based distributor for Abarth and other Italian brands. After the Turin Motor Show in 1955, it was purchased by the Du Pont brothers, heirs to a chemical fortune and avid motor racing enthusiasts, who later passed it on to a friend. The car remained unused for over 30 years until Etceterini collector Elad Shraga acquired it in 2009. Found in remarkably original condition, it underwent minor repairs to preserve its originality, with the mechanical components restored to make it roadworthy.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano is powered by a 1,089 cc four-cylinder engine enhanced with Abarth’s tuning kit, including twin-Weber carburetors, producing 66 bhp. (Picture from: Voi.id)
The Abarth 208 A Spyder was displayed only once at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in 2013. Despite its rarity and historical significance, it remained a private treasure until it was sold to its current owner. Recently, the car received a bare-metal repaint in its original colors in Italy, supervised by Corrado Lopresto, costing over €30,000. This restoration was done to concours-level conditions, solidifying the car’s status as an icon of Stile Transatlantico and a significant piece of Abarth’s early history.
The 1955 Abarth 208 A Spyder’s status as an icon of Stile Transatlantico and a significant piece of Abarth’s early history. (Picture from: Voi.id)
The Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano represents a remarkable blend of American and Italian design influences from the post-war era. According to Barnfinds in May 2024, the Abarth 208 A Spyder by Boano was listed among the cars auctioned privately by RM Sotheby's, with an asking price of €795,000.
Its unique history and exceptional originality make it a valuable addition to any collection, admired for its innovative design and rich heritage. As it continues to capture the imagination of automotive enthusiasts worldwide, this rare gem is poised for a future as bright as its past. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RMSOTHEBYS | CARSCOOPS | AUTO.CZ | POSTWARCLASSIC | BARNFINDS | MODERNCARCOLLECTOR | THEMUSEUMOFCARS ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
