Forgotten ONES - The legacy of the Ford GT40 continues to impress, both on the racetrack and in the world of car enthusiasts. When it was first introduced, the Ford GT40 set the racing world ablaze, challenging rivals like Ferrari and making its mark as a performance icon. It wasn’t just its track performance that left an impression; the GT40's impact reached far beyond, influencing generations of car lovers and even sparking a wave of replicas in the kit car industry. It’s no surprise that such an influential car became a template for various recreations over the years, with one of the notable examples being the Ferrer GT.
The Ferrer GT quickly caught the public attention when it was showcased at the Miami Auto Show in 1966. (Picture from: LorenaGT)
The Ferrer GT was a fascinating tribute to the Ford GT40, utilizing Volkswagen parts and embodying a design that clearly took inspiration from the Ford supercar. In the world of kit cars, the Ferrer GT stood out, especially during an era when such cars were becoming rare treasures. For many car enthusiasts, finding a kit car from the late 1960s or 1970s is like discovering a hidden gem. They are not just rare—they are often considered ultra-rare, a fact that becomes even more evident when you consider cars like the Bradley GT or the various models from Fiberfab. These vehicles hold a special place in the hearts of their owners, who see them as more than just cars; they are pieces of automotive history.
The Ferrer GT was a captivating homage to the Ford GT40, incorporating Volkswagen parts and featuring a design inspired by the Ford supercar. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Ferrer GT was more than just a good-looking vehicle; it was a project that reflected the passion of its creators. The car’s story began as a father-and-son endeavor, with Frank Joseph Ferrer and his son Gary taking on the challenge of building something unique. Frank, who owned Ferrer Aviation Inc., a crash aircraft recovery company based in Miami, worked alongside his son to create a car that would become a part of their family legacy. In 1965, the Ferrers purchased two Fiberfab Aztec bodies but weren’t satisfied with their design. Determined to create something better, they set out to build their own car, using the Aztec as a base while drawing design elements from the Ford GT40 and Porsche 904.
The process of building a Ferrer GT sports car at the Hialeah factory in 1965. (Picture from: LorenaGT)
With the help of fiberglass expert Dick Buckheit, Frank and Gary completed their creation in just eight months. Initially named the Ferrer GT 50, the car eventually became known simply as the Ferrer GT. Although the Ferrers had originally built the car for their personal use, it quickly caught the attention of others when it was showcased at the Miami Auto Show in 1966, even had time to be in the paddock of the "Daytona 24 Hour Continental" test.
The Ferrer GT while sat in dispaly at the 1966 New York Show. (Picture from: LorenaGT)
This unexpected interest led to a series of orders, and soon, the Ferrer Motors Corporation was born. Based in Hialeah, Florida, the company began producing the Ferrer GTbetween 1966 and 1967, although the exact number of cars produced remains uncertain. Some sources claim 103 bodies were made, while others suggest only 11 were completed.
The Ferrer GT featured a fiberglass body, with reinforcements made of iron placed between two layers of fiberglass, ensuring both strength and durability. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Ferrer GT’s journey didn’t end in the United States. It is believed that the Ferrer family also established a car business in Brazil, where they produced the Lorena GT. Built on the Volkswagen Fusca 1300 platform and powered by a Volkswagen 1600 engine, the Lorena GT was another sports coupé that left its mark on the automotive scene. Between 1968 and 1971, around 100 units were produced, with 22 completed by the factory and the remaining bodies assembled by independent builders.
The Lorena GT, known as a Brazilian-made sports coupé that was originally produced as direct derivative of the Ferrer GT sports car of an American company Ferrer Motors Corporation. (Picture from: Carro 2.04)
What made the Ferrer GT special wasn’t just its unique design but also its impressive build quality. The car featured a fiberglass body, with reinforcements made of iron placed between two layers of fiberglass, ensuring both strength and durability. Weighing in at 634 kilos, the Ferrer GT was a lightweight, well-crafted car that could be purchased in various configurations. The complete car was sold for $3,400, while the basic kit cost $990, and the luxury kit was priced at $1,600. Though the exact number of Ferrer GTs produced is still debated, there is no doubt that the car left a lasting impression on those lucky enough to own one.
Today, the Ferrer GT is remembered as a remarkable part of kit car history, a tribute to the passion and creativity of Frank and Gary Ferrer. Although the company was eventually dissolved in 1973, its legacy lives on through the Ferrer GT and the stories of those who helped bring it to life. This project wasn't just about building a car; it was about family, innovation, and the pursuit of something greater, qualities that continue to inspire car enthusiasts to this day. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LORENAGT |FIBERCLASSICS.ORG | BARNFINDS | ALLCARINDEX ]
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Wild ONES - Ideas are the seeds of innovation, especially in the world of automotive design. Sometimes, these ideas are unconventional, bordering on the bizarre, yet they push the boundaries of what is possible. Imagine a sports car equipped with a pop-up bed inside its cabin—a concept that seems more suited to a camper van than a high-performance vehicle. Yet, this very idea was brought to life by München, Germany-based design consultancy, EDAG, becoming one of their most intriguing creations twenty years ago.
The EDAG genX
concept was designed for individuals who reject traditional norms like fixed
working hours and locations, instead embracing a new form of modern
nomadism. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
EDAG has a long-standing history of producing visionary and thought-provoking automotive concepts. In 2004, they introduced one of their most intriguing projects: the EDAG genX. This vehicle concept wasn’t just another sports car; it was a glimpse into the future of personal mobility. The EDAG genX was crafted for the next generation of drivers, reflecting an evolving lifestyle where the lines between work and leisure are increasingly blurred.
The EDAG genX concept featuring a full-size bed into its design, allowing the driver to work, rest, and play—all within the confines of their vehicle. (Picture from: Madle.org)
The EDAG genX was designed for those living a fast-paced, modern lifestyle where flexibility, mobility, and enjoyment are key. Johannes Barckmann, the head of the EDAG Design Studio then, envisioned the car for individuals who reject traditional norms like fixed working hours and locations, instead embracing a new form of modern nomadism. The EDAG genX embodied this philosophy by incorporating a full-size bed into its design, allowing the driver to work, rest, and play—all within the confines of their vehicle.
The interior space of the EDAG genX concept could be expanded by raising the roof through an electric motor, providing ample room for a comfortable sleeping arrangement.(Picture from: WeirdWheels)
Including a bed in a sports car might seem like an odd choice, but it was a strategic decision to cater to the needs of a modern, on-the-go lifestyle. The interior space of the EDAG genX could be expanded by raising the roof through an electric motor, providing ample room for a comfortable sleeping arrangement. This feature made the EDAG genX the first sports car of its kind, combining performance with an unexpected level of comfort.
The EDAG genX concept also boasted removable external side pods that functioned as versatile luggage modules. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)
Adding to its versatility, the EDAG genX featured removable external side pods that doubled as luggage modules. These modules could be detached and used as suitcases, serving various purposes—whether for work-related needs, sports equipment, or camping gear. This modular approach ensured that the EDAG genX could adapt to a wide range of activities, offering unmatched flexibility to its users.
The EDAG genX concept's exterior design was equally striking, featuring a slender waistline inspired by the aerodynamic efficiency of Formula 1 cars.(Picture from: WeirdWheels)
The exterior design of the EDAG genX was equally impressive, with its slender waistline reminiscent of the aerodynamic efficiency found in Formula 1 cars. The car’s low, flat silhouette and wide stance gave it a commanding presence on the road, exuding power and confidence typical of a high-performance sports car. Despite its radical design, the EDAG genX was equipped with features like all-wheel drive and level regulators, ensuring it could handle various terrains, whether on or off the road.
The EDAG genX concept’s low, flat silhouette and wide stance gave it a commanding presence on the road, exuding power and confidence typical of a high-performance sports car.(Picture from: WeirdWheels)
However, the EDAG genX was more of a conceptual exploration than a production-ready vehicle. While it was showcased at the Geneva Motor Show 2004, the practicality of some features, like the sleeping module, remained unclear for real-world use. Additionally, detailed technical specifications were not disclosed, leaving much of the vehicle’s potential to the imagination. Given the niche market for such a unique concept, it seemed unlikely that the EDAG genX would ever enter mass production.
Despite
its radical design, the EDAG genX concept was equipped with all-wheel drive and
adjustable level regulators, allowing it to tackle diverse terrains
with ease.(Picture from: MotorTrend)
EDAG's reputation for innovation did not stop with the EDAG genX. In the years following, the company continued to push the envelope with concepts such as the lightweight EDAG Light Cocoon, which boasts a unique textile outer shell, and the autonomous EDAG CityBot designed for urban environments. Their work on the EDAG Soulmate, exploring human-vehicle interaction, and the EDAG Genesis, a forward-looking vehicle chassis, showcases their ability to think outside the box and address future automotive challenges.
Reflecting on the EDAG genX today, the idea of a sports car with a built-in bed might appear outlandish. However, it represents the kind of forward-thinking and unconventional ideas that fuel innovation in the automotive industry. In a world where the demands of work and life are constantly evolving, perhaps such unconventional ideas hold more relevance than we might initially think. The EDAG genX may never have reached production, but it remains a captivating glimpse into the possibilities of future vehicle design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | EDAG | SUPERCARS.NET | MOTORTREND | DISENO-ART | NEWATLAS | ENGADGET | MADLE.ORG | WEIRDWHEELS ]
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Future Bull's Blueprint - As the second millennium began, few moments in automotive history have made as significant an impact as the introduction of the Lamborghini Murciélago. This supercar didn’t merely roll off the production line; it burst onto the scene, ushering in a new era for Lamborghini and supercar enthusiasts worldwide. Produced from 2001 to 2010, the Murciélago was more than just a successor to the iconic Diablo—it symbolized Lamborghini's relentless pursuit of speed, design, and innovation.
The Lamborghini Murciélago (in pictured was a Coupé model) made its debut in 2001, setting the design foundation for future Lamborghini models.(Picture from: FlexiCars)
The Murciélago's journey began in the early 2000s, during a time when Lamborghini was ready to redefine what a supercar could be. The development of this new model, internally codenamed the L147 project, was shrouded in secrecy. Lamborghini, now under the stewardship of Audi, a subsidiary of Volkswagen, was poised to make a bold statement marked by Lamborghini L147 Canto prototype in 1999. This collaboration brought together Italian flair and German engineering precision, resulting in a car that was not only a worthy successor to the Diablo but also a trailblazer in its own right.
The Lamborghini Murciélago (in pictured was a Coupé model) embodied the fierce, untamed power of Lambo cars, designed by Luc Donckerwolke, was both aggressive and elegant, a perfect reflection of the car's capabilities. (Picture from: AutoScout24)
When the Murciélago was finally unveiled in 2001, it wasn't just an ordinary car launch. Lamborghini chose the dramatic setting of the Etna volcano in Sicily to introduce their new masterpiece, an event that perfectly matched the fiery spirit of the Murciélago. Named after a legendary fighting bull, the Murciélago embodied the fierce, untamed power that Lamborghini cars are known for, designed by Luc Donckerwolke, was both aggressive and elegant, a perfect reflection of the car's capabilities.
To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Lamborghini launched a special model, the Lamborghini Murciélago 40th Anniversary, with only 50 units produced in 2003. (Picture from: CarInvasion)
Beneath its stunning exterior, the Murciélago was equipped with a mid-mounted 6.2-liter V12 engine, a natural evolution of the Diablo’s powerhouse. This engine, capable of producing 576.6 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 479.4 ft lbs of torque at 4,000 rpm, propelled the Murciélagofrom 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 210 mph. Such raw power demanded an equally sophisticated drivetrain, and Lamborghini delivered with a permanent all-wheel-drive system, ensuring that the Murciélago’s immense power was always under control.
In 2004, Lamborghini expanded its Murciélago model with a Roadster variant, offering the same thrilling performance with the added excitement of open-air driving. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
The Murciélago was more than just a single model; it was a platform for exploration and evolution in automotive design and performance. Lamborghini didn’t stop at the coupé version introduced in 2001. In 2004, they expanded the lineup with a roadster variant, offering the same thrilling performance with the added excitement of open-air driving. The roadster maintained the same V12 engine as the coupé, delivering 580 bhp and a top speed of 205 mph, slightly less than its coupé counterpart but no less exhilarating.
The Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640 was a significant upgrade over the original model, launched in 2006, and featured a more powerful engine producing 640 bhp and a host of cosmetic enhancement. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Apart from that, with the Murciélago model, Lamborghini celebrated its 40th anniversary by launching a special model, the Lamborghini Murciélago 40th Anniversary. Only 50 units ever produced, was distinguished by its paintwork (Verde Artemis), which, depending on the angle of light, changed colors to different shades of blue and green. Like the Countach 25th and Diablo SE 30th, it was sold only as a special anniversary edition. Technically, it corresponds to the basic version.
The 2006 Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 211 mph. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
As Lamborghini continued to refine the Murciélago, they introduced several special editions that pushed the limits of what the car could achieve. The LP 640, introduced in 2006, was a significant upgrade over the original model. It featured a more powerful engine producing 640 bhp and a host of cosmetic enhancements, including a larger front spoiler and redesigned rear mirrors. This model could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 211 mph, making it one of the fastest cars of its time.
The Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640 Versace is a special edition model launched in 2006 in collaboration with the Gianni Versace company. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Notably, there are additional variants of the LP 640 model, including the Murciélago LP 640 Versace Limited Edition, which was visually refined by the Versace company, founded by Gianni Versace. This special edition, painted exclusively in white, featured new black Hermera rims.
The LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is the pinnacle of the Lamborghini Murciélago lineup, first launched in 2009.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Murciélago lineup culminated with the introduction of the LP 670-4 SuperVeloce, a limited-production variant that took the car’s performance to new heights in 2009. With 670 bhp and a weight reduction of 220 pounds, the SuperVeloce was a track-focused version that could reach 60 mph in a blistering 3.2 seconds. Its aggressive design, with a prominent rear wing and more angular lines, made it a fitting farewell to the Murciélago nameplate.
The 2009 Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce featured an aggressive design, with a prominent rear wing and more angular lines, making it a fitting farewell to the Murciélago nameplate. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Over its production run, Lamborghini built 4,099 units of the Murciélago, each one a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence. The car’s production ended on November 5, 2010, making way for its successor, the Aventador, which debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in 2011. The Murciélago’s legacy, however, lives on. It remains a beloved icon in the automotive world, a car that not only met but exceeded the expectations of what a supercar could be.
Looking back at the Lamborghini Murciélago, it’s clear that this car was more than just a vehicle; it was a phenomenon. From its dramatic debut at the foot of a volcano to its final production run, the Murciélago captured the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world. Its blend of stunning design, breathtaking performance, and relentless innovation set a new standard in the supercar industry. The Murciélago's story is one of passion, precision, and the pursuit of perfection—a story that will continue to inspire for generations to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LAMBORGHINI | FANDOM | SUPERCARS.NET | HOTWHEELS | CLASSIC | FLEXICARS | AUTOSCOUT24.DE | CARANDDRIVER | CARSCOOPS | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Classic Masterpiece - In the world of automotive design, creativity often sparks innovation that leaves a lasting impression. Think of iconic cars like the Lamborghini Miura, which reshaped the sports car landscape with its mid-engine design. Just as the Miura stunned the world, the Spirit of Tomorrow from Canada holds a similar place in history as an ambitious and forward-thinking vehicle. This custom-built car by Horace Basil "Barney" Oldfield, conceived in the early 1940s, stands as a testament to the boldness of visionaries who dared to push boundaries in design and engineering.
The Spirit of Tomorrow from Canada holds a special place in history as an ambitious and forward-thinking vehicle, conceived in 1942. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The Spirit of Tomorrow came to life in Oldfield’s workshop near Prospect Lake, British Columbia, during a time when streamlined design and aerodynamics were still developing concepts in the automotive world. Inspired by both practicality and curiosity, Oldfield, an innovative welder by profession, created this masterpiece. The car was remarkable for its unique teardrop shape, which drew the attention of onlookers as much in 1942 as it does today. Oldfield's commitment to achieving the perfect aerodynamic form led him to test his wooden model in a nearby creek, observing how water flowed around it, much like a wind tunnel in motion. His hands-on approach speaks volumes about his inventive nature, making the Spirit of Tomorrow far more than just another car.
The Spirit of Tomorrow built by Horace Basil "Barney" Oldfield between 1938 and 1942 with the help of his friend John Norton, a skilled metalworker. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Built between 1938 and 1942 with the help of his friend John Norton, a skilled metalworker, the Spirit of Tomorrow was based on a news article that sparked Oldfield’s imagination. Its body, made entirely of hand-hammered aluminum, was crafted to perfection. The innovative design didn't stop with the exterior. The car was also equipped with a rear-mounted Ford V8 engine, an advanced feature for its time, and a unique two-speed Columbia over-drive transmission, providing a driving experience that was both smooth and powerful. The attention to detail in balancing the car, down to the use of sandbags in its chassis during testing, speaks to Oldfield’s relentless pursuit of perfection.
This Oldfield's creation was more than just a car; it was a symbol of ingenuity, featuring a 1939 Dodge frame and an innovative suspension system that defined its era. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Oldfield's creation wasn’t just a car; it was a symbol of ingenuity. From its 1939 Dodge frame to its carefully calibrated suspension system, the Spirit of Tomorrow was ahead of its time. A large metal fin adorned the rear, enhancing directional control and stability, especially in crosswinds. The car's low aerodynamic profile, combined with its lightweight build, allowed it to reach speeds of 180 kilometers per hour, impressive for a custom-built vehicle of that era. The fin and airfoil design worked in tandem to keep the car stable at high speeds, ensuring that even as it accelerated, the car lowered itself closer to the road, enhancing control.
The Spirit of Tomorrow's low aerodynamic profile, combined with its lightweight build, allowed it to reach speeds of 180 kilometers per hour, impressive for a custom-built vehicle of that era. (Picture from: Driving.ca)
Despite its futuristic design and cutting-edge technology, the Spirit of Tomorrow never quite became the "car of tomorrow" as its name suggested. Oldfield's vision, much like other ambitious projects of the time, was perhaps too advanced for widespread acceptance. Yet, the car remains a marvel of engineering, representing the hopes and dreams of an era when anything seemed possible. While streamlined designs, like the Spirit of Tomorrow or its predecessor, the Dymaxion, never became mainstream, they laid the foundation for future innovations in automotive design.
Vancouver newspaper clipping from June 1942 reporting on Horace Basil "Barney" Oldfield's groundbreaking vehicle, The Spirit of Tomorrow. (Picture from: SpiritOfTomorrow)
Even today, the Spirit of Tomorrow continues to captivate those who encounter it. Tim Lindsay, the car's current caretaker and nephew-in-law of Oldfield, proudly preserves the vehicle’s legacy. Each time it’s driven or displayed, whether at local events or conferences, it turns heads just as it did when it first rolled out of Oldfield’s workshop. The vehicle's sleek design, combined with its rich history, ensures that the Spirit of Tomorrow remains an enduring piece of automotive art.
The Spirit of Tomorrow was equipped with a rear-mounted Ford V8 engine, and a unique two-speed Columbia over-drive transmission, providing a driving experience that was both smooth and powerful. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Though Oldfield passed away in the 1970s, his family has worked tirelessly to keep his memory alive, preserving both the car and the roundhouse he built, which still stands in Saanich today. This roundhouse, inspired by the rotating dome of the Plaskett telescope at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, showcases Oldfield’s fascination with mechanical movement and precision. It’s this same fascination that drove him to create the Spirit of Tomorrow, a car that, even now, feels like a glimpse into a future that never fully arrived. | lBMbUQTMxIk |
Oldfield’s Spirit of Tomorrow may not have become the standard for cars to come, but its impact on the world of design and innovation is undeniable. It remains a symbol of what can be achieved when creativity meets determination, and a reminder that sometimes, the most significant breakthroughs in design are the ones that never quite make it to the mainstream. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SPIRITOFTOMORROW | AUTOEVOLUTION | DRIVING.CA | SOOKENEWSMIRROR | EVELAZARUS | TAMPARACING ]
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The Faster - The world of hypercars has always been filled with awe-inspiring innovations, and the upcoming McLaren W1 is poised to make a significant mark. The very name W1 might evoke memories of the Australian-made HSV GTSR W1, known for its dominance in power and performance, but this new creation from McLaren stands in a league of its own. Building upon the legacy of iconic models like the McLaren P1 and the legendary F1, this latest addition promises a thrilling chapter in automotive history.
The
McLaren W1 embodies cutting-edge technology and racing heritage, with
its name signifying the brand's championship-winning mindset in Formula
One, celebrating the precision and performance that have defined McLaren
for decades. (Picture from: KabarMegapolitan)
At the heart of the McLaren W1 is a focus on cutting-edge technology and racing heritage. While the W1 name might suggest a connection to the Australian powerhouse, it is not a homage to the HSV GTSR W1. Instead, McLaren’s choice of the name signifies their championship-winning mindset in Formula One, celebrating the precision and performance that have defined the brand for decades. The McLaren W1 represents a blend of speed, innovation, and world-class engineering, positioning it as the next hypercar to watch.
While teaser details of the McLaren W1 remain limited, the vehicle is expected to surpass its predecessors in every way. (Picture from: TheSupercarBlog)
Though specific details of the McLaren W1 remain limited, the vehicle is expected to surpass its predecessors in every way. Under the hood, this hypercar is rumored to feature a brand-new V8 engine, paired with a highly advanced hybrid system. This combination is projected to produce around 1,200 horsepower—significantly more than the 735kW output of the P1 and leagues ahead of the 474kW GTSR W1. The inclusion of a hybrid system, said to be 70% lighter than McLaren’s current offering, shows the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of both performance and efficiency.
Although the W1 name might suggest a connection to the Australian powerhouse, it is not a homage to the HSV GTSR W1, but rather reflects McLaren’s championship-winning mindset in Formula One. (Picture from: HSV)
The McLaren W1 is set to follow the plug-in hybrid path, much like its sibling, the V6-powered Artura. However, this model will draw from the expertise of McLaren’s Formula One division, utilizing battery technology derived from their F1 cars. The combination of a powerful engine and lightweight hybrid system could redefine expectations for what a hypercar can achieve. Additionally, only 400 units of the McLaren W1 are expected to be produced, making it a highly exclusive vehicle—though still more accessible than the extremely limited run of the HSV GTSR W1.
One of the most exciting aspects of the McLaren W1 is its pricing and availability. With reports suggesting a starting price of approximately $2 million, this hypercar is clearly targeting a very exclusive market. However, McLaren dealers have indicated that the 25 fortunate owners of the track-only Solus GT will have the first opportunity to secure a W1. Such limited production and high price point ensure that the McLaren W1 will become a coveted gem among automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The
McLaren W1, an upcoming creation from McLaren, builds upon the legacy
of iconic models like the P1 and legendary F1, standing in a league of
its own and promising a thrilling chapter in automotive history. (Picture from: CarsUK.net)
Beyond its remarkable powertrain, the design of the McLaren W1 is set to be a showstopper. Early glimpses from those who have seen the car reveal a number of striking features. One of the most notable changes is the switch from McLaren’s signature butterfly doors to a top-hinged gull-wing design, reminiscent of the classic DeLorean DMC-12 and Mercedes-Benz 300SL. This bold shift in design direction is just one example of how McLaren is blending its own heritage with a nod to automotive icons of the past.
Other standout design elements include a hydraulically activated rear wing, titanium twin exhaust outlets mounted centrally, and aerodynamic 'snorkels' behind the side windows. The W1 also boasts an active front splitter, unique 'socket-eye' headlights, and floating wheel arches. Side skirts that pay homage to Formula One aero elements and a full-width carbon diffuser further enhance the car’s performance and aesthetics. It’s clear that every inch of this car has been meticulously crafted with both form and function in mind.
The McLaren W1 will officially be unveiled on October 6, 2024, a significant date that coincides with the 50th anniversary of McLaren’s first Formula One World Constructors' Championship. This momentous occasion will not only mark the reveal of a groundbreaking hypercar but also celebrate McLaren’s enduring legacy in motorsports, a legacy defined by visionaries like Emerson Fittipaldi, who brought home the World Drivers' Championship in 1974.
With so much anticipation surrounding the McLaren W1, it’s clear that this hypercar is set to elevate the brand’s reputation even further. Whether you’re a fan of McLaren’s rich Formula One history or simply an admirer of high-performance vehicles, the W1 is a model that promises to capture imaginations and leave a lasting impact on the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MCLAREN | ROBBREPORT | CARSCOOPS | CARSUK.NET | THESUPERCARBLOG ]
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RARE ONES - The 1970s saw a plethora of unique concept vehicles, each embodying the era's spirit of innovation and daring design. One such gem, often overlooked by the public, is the Coggiola Janus Prototype. This vehicle stands out with its "two-faced" wedge design, showcasing asymmetrical sections that start from the midpoint of the body, making it a visual spectacle. Despite its potential for production, the Janus remains a rare find, its highly-refined surface treatment emblematic of many Coggiola creations.
The Coggiola Janus Prototype stands out with its "two-faced" wedge design, showcasing asymmetrical sections that start from the midpoint of the body, making it a visual spectacle. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Sergio Coggiola, born in 1928 and passing away in 1989, was one of renowned Italian designers who left an indelible mark on the automotive industry. His career began at Carrozzeria Ghia in Turin, where he served for 15 years, eventually leading Ghia's prototype shop until 1952. In 1966, Coggiola established his own company, Carrozzeria Coggiola, in Orbassano, a commune near Turin. This move allowed him to further explore his creative visions and bring them to life.
The Coggiola Janus (in clay model) was sliced down the middle, incorporating mirrors to present two distinct design proposals on either side. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
During the 1980s, Coggiola's expertise became highly sought after by various car manufacturers. He freelanced, often bringing third-party designs to fruition. Notable examples include the Citroën Karin, designed by Trevor Fiore, and the Lamborghini Portofino. He also worked on prototypes of the Renault Mégane. Coggiola's ability to produce individual, one-off vehicles made him a favorite among elite clients, including the Sultan of Brunei. For the HH. Sultan, Coggiola crafted Bentley B2 and B3 coupés and convertibles, based on designs by Pininfarina, creating a total of 17 units between 1994 and 1996.
The Coggiola Janus Prototypewas meticulously crafted with aerodynamics in mind, ensuring that the vehicle was as functional as it was eye-catching. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Coggiola Janus prototype is particularly fascinating due to its unique design approach. The clay model was sliced down the middle, incorporating mirrors to present two distinct design proposals on either side. This allowed for a direct comparison of different stylistic elements. The right side of the car featured a unique window theme but lacked a door handle and fuel tank lid, elements present on the opposite side. This asymmetry created a striking visual effect, emphasizing the innovative spirit behind the Janus.
The right side of the Coggiola Janus (in clay model) featured a unique window theme but lacked a door handle and fuel tank lid, elements present on the opposite side. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The sporty theme of the Janus was not merely for show. The design was meticulously crafted with aerodynamics in mind, ensuring that the vehicle was as functional as it was eye-catching. The prototype served as a preliminary study of shapes, with the centerline dividing two entirely different stylistic areas while maintaining the same overall dimensions. The name Janus, derived from the Latin god with two faces, aptly captures the dual nature of this extraordinary vehicle.
The Coggiola Janus Prototype remains a testament to Sergio Coggiola's ingenuity and the bold creativity of 1970s automotive design. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Coggiola Janus prototype remains a testament to Sergio Coggiola's ingenuity and the bold creativity of 1970s automotive design. Its asymmetrical design and innovative approach continue to inspire and intrigue car enthusiasts and designers alike. The Janus is a symbol of an era where boundaries were pushed, and new possibilities were explored, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of automotive design. We apologize for the lack of a proper video about the Coggiola Janus. Instead, please enjoy this video about the Farago CF 428 by Carrozzeria Coggiola.
As we reflect on the unique and daring designs of the past, the Coggiola Janus stands out as a remarkable example of innovation and artistry. Its legacy reminds us of the importance of creativity and the impact it can have on shaping the future of design. This prototype is not just a car; it's a piece of history, encapsulating the spirit of an era defined by bold ideas and groundbreaking achievements. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | COGGIOLA | CARSTYLING.RU | WIKIPEDIA | ARCHIOPROTOTIPI.IT | ALLCARINDEX | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | COACHBUILD ]
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Today, the Ferrer GT is remembered as a remarkable part of kit car history, a tribute to the passion and creativity of Frank and Gary Ferrer. Although the company was eventually dissolved in 1973, its legacy lives on through the Ferrer GT and the stories of those who helped bring it to life. This project wasn't just about building a car; it was about family, innovation, and the pursuit of something greater, qualities that continue to inspire car enthusiasts to this day. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LORENAGT | FIBERCLASSICS.ORG | BARNFINDS | ALLCARINDEX ]
