Rare ONES - When you think of a banjo, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the lively twang of country music, echoing through the America. But in the late 1960s, the word "Banjo" took on a different meaning in the automotive world. From being a beloved musical instrument, it became the name of a rare sports car—the Banjo GT, designed to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts with its unique design and impressive performance.
The Banjo GT, shown here as model #4, was built to make an impact in the sports car market, combining American muscle with a lightweight fiberglass body.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Banjo GT was born out of the vision of William Bruce-Phillips and produced by Banjo Corporation in Ohio between 1968 and 1970. This car stood out not only because of its limited production but also due to its innovative approach to design. Built on a modified Chevrolet chassis from the mid-1950s, the Banjo GT was intended to accommodate powerful American V8 engines.
The Banjo GT was born out of the vision of William Bruce-Phillips and produced by Banjo Corporation in Ohio between 1968 and 1970. (Picture from: BanjoRun)
It was a vehicle designed to make an impact in the sports car market, blending American muscle with a lightweight fiberglass body, a material that was both durable and aerodynamic for its time. The exterior design of the Banjo GT was as striking as it was functional. Its fiberglass body provided a smooth and streamlined silhouette, comparable in size to the Corvette but with distinct styling elements that set it apart.
Built on a modified Chevrolet chassis from the mid-1950s, the Banjo GT was intended to accommodate powerful American V8 engines. (Picture from: Perico001 in Flickr)
The car’s sleek shape was enhanced by parts sourced from other vehicles, such as tail lights from the Ford Mercury Comet, giving it a look that was both bold and contemporary. The focus was on creating a car that could house large engines like the 289 Ford V8 while maintaining a lightweight structure, ensuring that the Banjo GT had both speed and visual appeal.
The Banjo GT's cabin offered ample space, with a simple interior that kept the focus on the road and the car’s performance. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Inside, the Banjo GT offered a straightforward yet driver-focused interior. Unlike many luxury sports cars, the emphasis was not on lavish details but rather on functionality and performance. The layout was minimalistic, providing just what was necessary for the driving experience. The cabin was designed to be spacious enough to accommodate the large V8 engines, but the simplicity of the interior allowed drivers to focus on the road and the car’s performance. It was an approach that reflected the Banjo GT’s mission: to deliver a thrilling driving experience rather than excess comfort.
The Banjo GT powered by a 289 Ford V8 drivetrain to deliver a thrilling driving experience rather than excess comfort. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Today, the Banjo GT is an incredibly rare car, with only an estimated 10 to 15 units ever produced. Its scarcity makes it a prized possession for collectors. One well-known model, the Banjo GT Coupe number #4, underwent a full restoration between 2005 and 2007 before being transported to Germany for additional cosmetic enhancements. It is now in the hands of a German collector, one of the few surviving examples of this unique sports car. The rarity and historical significance of the Banjo GT make it a valuable piece of automotive history.
The Banjo GT’s sleek shape was enhanced by parts sourced from other vehicles, such as tail lights from the Ford Mercury Comet, giving it a look that was both bold and contemporary. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
As of today, finding a Banjo GT for sale is nearly impossible due to its limited production. However, one of these rare vehicles was listed for €59,900 (around $72,000) in Germany, highlighting the value and allure of owning such a distinctive car. The Banjo GT remains a testament to American automotive creativity and continues to captivate car enthusiasts with its combination of innovative design and impressive performance.
The Banjo GT remains a testament to American automotive creativity and continues to captivate car enthusiasts with its combination of innovative design and impressive performance. (Picture from: Perico001 in Flickr)
From a musical instrument to a high-performance sports car, the Banjo name has been reimagined in a way that few could have predicted. The Banjo GT’s rarity, sleek design, and connection to American muscle cars ensure its place in the world of classic automobiles, cherished by those fortunate enough to own one. Curious about more forgotten American icons? Let’s dive in!*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOU RCES | BANJORUN | BRINGATRAILER | UNDISCOVERED CLASSIC | OCTANE-MAGAZIN | CLASSIC ANDRECREATION SPORTSCARS ]
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New ROAD&TRACK BEAST - The Jaguar C-X75 has finally become a road-legal supercar, 14 years after its debut as a futuristic concept. First introduced at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, the C-X75 captured global attention with its impressive engineering and sleek design. Originally, Jaguar intended to put this high-performance car into production, targeting a powerful hybrid system combining a 1.6-liter twin-turbocharged petrol engine with two electric motors to generate an astounding 888 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque.
Ian Callum transforms the Jaguar C-X75, blending advanced technology with a luxurious, redesigned interior for a powerful, modernized revival. (Picture from: Autocar)
However, the ambitious project faced an abrupt halt when Jaguar’s leadership deemed the timing unfit for launching an €800,000 supercar amid a period of global financial uncertainty. But the story of the C-X75 was far from over. Despite its brief setback, the C-X75 soon found itself in the limelight once again when it appeared as the villain's car in the 2015 James Bond movie Spectre, driven by Mr. Hinx, a character portrayed with calculated menace.
The first Jaguar C-X75 road-legal version by Callum made its first public appearance in April 21, 2024, at the Bicester Scramble car meeting in Oxfordshire. (Picture from: BicesterHeritage.co.uk)
For this cinematic role, Jaguar enlisted Williams Advanced Engineering to create several stunt versions of the C-X75, featuring a modified chassis and a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine instead of the concept’s hybrid system. The stunt car allowed the C-X75 to perform dramatic, high-speed stunts that showcased its versatility and eye-catching design, reigniting enthusiasm among car aficionados worldwide.
The Jaguar C-X75 was further enhanced by Callum with reduced panel gaps, a smoother carbon fiber exterior, and refined suspension for an improved ride. (Picture from: Autocar)
Following the filming of Spectre, one of these stunt cars was acquired by an unnamed collector who was captivated by the idea of making the C-X75 roadworthy. The collector commissioned Callum, a design and engineering consultancy led by famed automotive designer Ian Callum, to adapt the stunt car for road use. This process required significant modifications to ensure the car met UK regulations for road safety and functionality.
The revamped Willow Green C-X75 features an upgraded interior inspired by luxury hypercars like the Bugatti Chiron and the Tourbillon, adding sophistication to its design.(Picture from: Autocar)
Changes included the addition of quieter exhausts with catalytic converters, E-marked glass, and genuine wing mirrors to replace the lightweight foam props used in the film. Callum also focused on reducing panel gaps, smoothing the carbon fiber exterior, and refining the suspension for a smoother ride. Additionally, an active aerodynamics package, including an airbrake,
enhances stability at high speeds, while a hydraulic nose lifter eases
driving over bumps and rough roads.
The revamped Jaguar C-X75 steering wheel was machined from a billet and the leather upholstery was sourced from renowned Scottish firm Bridge of Weir. (Picture from: Autocar)
The re-engineered C-X75 made its first public appearance in April 21, 2024, at the Bicester Scramble car meeting in Oxfordshire, thrilling spectators and affirming its place in automotive history. Callum’s engineering director, Adam Donafresco, described the road-legal C-X75 as a unique blend of performance, nostalgia, and cutting-edge design. This meticulous transformation allowed enthusiasts to witness the car’s unique charm, typically reserved for on-screen action, up close.
The road-legal Jaguar C-X75 by Callum features a luxurious green and cream interior, upholstered in premium leather from Scotland’s renowned Bridge of Weir.(Picture from: Autocar)
Not only did Callum succeed in creating a road-ready Jaguar C-X75, but the team also took steps to restore much of the high-performance functionality that the car would have boasted had it entered mass production. This included Callum’s own in-house control software, which offers drivers two driving modes, switching seamlessly between a street-friendly setup and a high-performance track mode. The track mode optimizes throttle response, sharpens gear shifts, and fully opens the exhaust for a thrilling, race-inspired experience.
The road-legal Jaguar C-X75 by Callum is powered by a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine, now paired with a modern seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.(Picture from: Autocar)
The revamped Willow GreenC-X75 also boasts a refreshed interior that draws inspiration from luxury hypercars like the Bugatti Chironand Tourbillon. Three compact touchscreens, with Apple CarPlay compatibility, line the center console in a sleek vertical stack, while key controls are strategically positioned on an overhead console. Designed for both functionality and elegance, the interior features leather from Bridge of Weir, an esteemed Scottish supplier known for its premium quality. The steering wheel, crafted from a single billet, adds to the car’s bespoke feel, while small details like refined door seals contribute to a driving experience that’s as comfortable as it is exhilarating.
the road-legal Jaguar C-X75 as a unique blend of performance, nostalgia, and cutting-edge design. (Picture from: Autocar)
Balancing luxury features like air conditioning and an upgraded audio system with the rugged performance expected of a supercar posed a rewarding challenge for the Callum team. Their efforts culminated in a vehicle that not only upholds the legacy of the C-X75 but also allows for daily usability without sacrificing its aggressive sound and feel. For Ian Callum, transforming the C-X75 into a road-ready car was a satisfying accomplishment, describing it as the realization of a vision that nearly slipped away.
Today, the Jaguar C-X75 stands as a testament to innovation and resilience in automotive design, embodying the high aspirations and skillful engineering that brought it from concept to reality. Now road-legal, this one-of-a-kind supercar serves as a bridge between its cinematic heritage and a new life as a rare gem on the road. The C-X75 is not only a tribute to Jaguar's storied past but also a reminder of the dreams and possibilities that drive the world of automotive engineering forward. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOCAR | TOPGEAR | BICESTERHERITAGE.CO.UK]
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Less KNOWN - Miura may not be a name that instantly sparks recognition in the minds of global car enthusiasts, but for those in Brazil, it represents a significant chapter in the nation's automotive history. While most associate the name "Miura" with the legendary Italian Lamborghini supercar, there was another Miura that roared to life in the 1970s, far from the luxury of European roads.
A selection of Miura cars throughout the brand's history, from left to right: Miura Top Sport, Miura Targa, Miura Sport, and Miura MTS. (Picture from: RareComponentCars in Facebook)
The Reviving Icon - In the world of automotive design, few names resonate like Marcello Gandini. Known for shaping some of the most iconic cars in history, his work includes the Lamborghini Miura, Countach, and the Alfa Romeo Montreal. Yet, one of his most experimental concepts, the Autobianchi A112 Runabout, showcased his innovative spirit in 1969 with a bold, motorboat-inspired design that defied conventions.
The return of a 1969 Design Icon: the Bertone Runabout as “pure geometry,” drawing on the simplicity that defined Gandini’s vision. (Picture from: Autocar)
The original Runabout was a vision of Gandini’s creativity during his time at Gruppo Bertone, influencing future designs like the Fiat X1/9. Although never intended for mass production, it set a distinctive design language, blending sharp angles with playful proportions. Now, more than 50 years later, Bertone has decided to revive this concept, transforming it into a high-performance supercar.
The Autobianchi A112 Runabout, a brainchild of Marcello Gandini of Bertone, exuded a distinct charm, and made its debut at the 1969 Turin Motor Show. (Picture from: Autocar)
This modern Runabout has been redesigned by Andrea Mocellin, a designer with experience at Nio and Pininfarina. While Mocellin’s career isn’t as extensive as Gandini’s, his talent and vision bring fresh life to the Runabout, merging the essence of the original with modern aesthetics. Mocellin describes the car as “pure geometry,” drawing on the simplicity that defined Gandini’s vision.
While the 1969 concept was a fully open barchetta, the new Runabout will feature an optional targa top. (Picture from: Autocar)
Staying true to its wedge-shaped form, the new Runabout incorporates necessary updates for today’s roads. The quirky, high-mounted headlights from 1969 have been replaced with pop-up lights in the nose, giving a cleaner look. Practical features like doors and side mirrors, absent in the original, enhance usability while maintaining the classic silhouette.
Maintaining its wedge-shaped form, the new Runabout updates the 1969 high-mounted headlights with sleek pop-up lights for a cleaner look. (Picture from: Autocar)
Under the hood, the new Runabout boasts a powerful 493bhp V6 engine—a stark contrast to the original’s modest 1.1-liter. This added power transforms it from a design concept into a genuine driver’s car. The aggressive front now features a larger grille, a modern necessity for cooling, without disrupting the streamlined design.
The Bertone Runabout two-seater cockpit sticks to a minimalist ethos, with red and black upholstery offset by cool aluminum accents—a stylish nod to performance-focused design without overindulgence in high-tech clutter. (Picture from: Autocar)
A notable addition to the updated Runabout is a targa top, giving drivers the option to enjoy open-air driving or close the cockpit, a feature the original didn’t have. This flexibility caters to both the thrill-seeker and the everyday driver, enhancing the car’s appeal.
Under the hood, the Bertone Runabout roars as a full-fledged supercar with a 493bhp V6 engine—a bold upgrade from the original’s modest 1.1-liter. (Picture from: Autocar)
Scheduled for production in 2026, the new Runabout will start at €350,000, making it a luxury collector’s item. As the first in Bertone’s Classics range, this car honors Bertone’s legacy, while introducing a new chapter for the design house. The video below showcases the 1969 Runabout, offering a glimpse of this legendary design.
The reimagined Runabout symbolizes the enduring charm of Italian design, combining past innovation with today’s technology. Through this revival, Bertone not only pays homage to Gandini’s vision but also sets the stage for future creations, blending heritage with modern engineering for a new generation of enthusiasts. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BERTONE | AUTOCAR | CARBUZZ | CARSCOOPS ]
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Rare ONES - There are countless extraordinary cars in the world that often fly under the radar, rarely getting the recognition they deserve. Among these hidden gems is the Arrow C1, a highly exclusive vehicle with only four units ever produced. Built by Styling Garage (SGS), this unique car has become a collector's dream, not only because of its rarity but also due to its striking design inspired by the legendary Mercedes-Benz C111 concept. The Arrow C1 stands as a testament to innovative design, with just eleven surviving units of the original C111 concept serving as its visual muse.
This rare gullwing Mercedes-Benz Arrow C1 by SGS inspired by the legendary Mercedes-Benz C111 concept. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Styling Garage, also known as SGS, was a well-known coachbuilder and tuning company based near Hamburg, Germany. From 1979 to 1986, the company specialized in creating extravagant, custom-designed cars, primarily based on the Mercedes-Benz W126 S-Class. SGS became known for its high-end clientele, which included affluent buyers from the Arab world, American celebrities, Japanese businessmen, and African leaders. Each car built by SGS was a reflection of luxury and exclusivity, blending exceptional craftsmanship with bold, unconventional designs.
This
rare Mercedes-Benz Arrow C1 by SGS featured a "flatnose" front end,
widebody modifications, and a conversion to gullwing doors, all of which
gave it a distinctive look that set it apart from the original model. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
The C111 concept series, which served as inspiration for the Arrow C1’s design, was a Mercedes-Benz's experimental vehicle series created in the 1970s. It was groundbreaking not only for its use of a Wankel rotary engine and a mid-engine configuration but also for its advanced chassis design and lightweight plastic bodywork. These innovations made the C111 a symbol of forward-thinking automotive engineering, and its sleek, futuristic design captured the imagination of car enthusiasts around the world. Though the C111 never went into mass production, it left a lasting impact on the world of concept cars, and its influence can still be seen in the Arrow C1’s styling.
SGS
also fitted the 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC Arrow C1 with flip-up headlights,
and the radiator was repositioned to lie flat, further enhancing the
sleekness of the design. (Picture from: Kevin Alan in Flickr)
The Arrow C1 by SGS was a highly modified version of the Mercedes-Benz C126from the early 1980s. The car featured a "flatnose" front end, widebody modifications, and a conversion to gullwing doors, all of which gave it a distinctive look that set it apart from the original model. The front end of the Arrow C1 was designed to resemble the C111 concept, with an elongated nose reminiscent of both the Plymouth Superbird and the C111. This bold styling choice gave the car an aggressive and aerodynamic appearance, making it instantly recognizable.
The 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC Arrow C1 by SGS at the Tuning Special Show - Retro Classics Stuttgart 2024. (Picture from: Zwischengas)
The transformation of the Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC C126 into the Arrow C1 was more than just a cosmetic overhaul. SGS fitted the car with flip-up headlights, and the radiator was repositioned to lie flat, further enhancing the sleekness of the design. The body kit, partially made from kevlar, included shaved bumpers and faux air intakes positioned ahead of the rear wheels, adding to the car's futuristic feel. The Arrow C1 made its public debut at the 1985 Geneva Motor Show, where it generated significant attention for its daring aesthetics. Shortly after, SGS unveiled a convertible version of the C126 with similar modifications, dubbed the SGS Arrow II.
The 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC Arrow C1 by SGS at the Tuning Special Show - Retro Classics Stuttgart 2024. (Picture from: Zwischengas)
Despite the excitement that the Arrow C1 and other SGS creations generated, the brand’s relationship with Daimler-Benz was far from harmonious. Daimler-Benz publicly distanced itself from SGS conversions, citing concerns over both the aesthetics and the technical safety of the modified vehicles. Reports surfaced regarding the deactivation of important engine warning lights and the omission of necessary high-speed tires, raising questions about the cars' usability on the road. As a result, Daimler-Benz prohibited SGS from using the iconic Mercedes-Benz star, effectively positioning SGS as the sole manufacturer of these highly modified cars. | SvkHsIdknkY | s0jIVPDEa-w |
The Arrow C1 remains a remarkable piece of automotive history. While it may not have been embraced by Mercedes-Benz, its daring design and exclusivity have cemented its place as a unique creation from a bygone era of coachbuilding. With only four examples ever built, the Arrow C1 is a rare find, offering a glimpse into the world of extravagant custom cars and the visionaries behind them. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SGS STYLING GARAGE | IMCDB.ORG | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Unique ONES - In the world of custom cars, creativity often leads to extraordinary results. Jerry Pennington’s journey into the world of show cars is a testament to how passion can turn into a legacy. His love for Corvettes and custom vehicles began in his garage, where he spent countless hours working on car repairs and modifications. From humble beginnings, Jerry’s dedication to his craft led him to establish Pennington Collision in 1968, marking the start of a professional career that would soon gain national recognition.
Jerry Pennington's 1972 Ridler and International Championship Awarding winning 'Scorpion.' (Picture from: Story-Cars)
What made Jerry Pennington stand out was his ability to take the classic Corvette design and transform it into something that had never been seen before. His most remarkable creation, the Scorpion, is a perfect example of this. Built on the foundation of a 1969 Corvette C3, the Scorpion was a radically modified rear-engine machine that captured the imagination of car enthusiasts. It wasn’t just about performance, but about design and innovation. Jerry, alongside designer Randy Wittine, crafted the Scorpion to be more than a show car. With its wide wheelwells, sleek scoops, and a turbocharged small-block engine mounted in the rear, the Scorpion became a symbol of cutting-edge customization.
The Jerry Pennington's Scorpion made its debut at the International Champion Auto Show, where it secured the Grand Championship title for two consecutive years, 1971 and 1972. (Picture from: Autorama)
Jerry’s shop in Troy, Michigan, became a hub of creativity where fiberglass repairs and custom modifications were done by hand. The Scorpion’s transformation was an intense process, with spoilers and wheelwell flares meticulously molded into the Corvette’s body lines. It wasn’t just the exterior that received attention, either.
The Jerry Pennington's Scorpion sat on display at the 2013 Detroit Autorama. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)
The interior of the Scorpion was fitted with luxurious red velvet upholstery, giving the car an even more unique and striking appearance. This attention to detail extended to every corner of the vehicle, showcasing Jerry’s commitment to excellence.
The Jerry Pennington's Scorpion sat on display at the 2013 Detroit Autorama. (Picture from: CorvetteBlogger)
The Scorpion made its debut at the International Champion Auto Show, where it secured the Grand Championship title for two consecutive years, 1971 and 1972. This achievement not only put Jerry on the map but also solidified his reputation as a master builder. The Scorpion's success didn’t stop there. At the prestigious Detroit Auto Rama in 1972, Jerry took home the Ridler Award, one of the highest honors in the custom car world, recognizing his creativity and vision. The Scorpion had become more than just a car—it was a statement.
Jerry Pennington's Scorpion, powered by a stock 350 Chevy engine, was modified to reverse its rotation direction, coupled with four Holley 4-barrel carburetors and four turbochargers, and paired with a custom-built transaxle, all installed in the rear.(Picture from: CorvetteBlogger)
But Jerry didn’t stop with the Scorpion. In 1973, he unveiled yet another masterpiece, the Devilfish, which also won the Ridler Award, making him the first person ever to win this prestigious accolade two years in a row. His ability to consistently produce winning designs and innovative vehicles made him a force to be reckoned with in the custom car industry. He even went on to build the “Atlanta Phoenix,” a car that would win the International Championship for both 1973 and 1974, proving that Jerry’s creative genius was unmatched.
The 1973 Ridler award winning "Devilfish." (Picture from: PenningtonCollision)
Jerry’s streak of success continued throughout the decade, earning him the title of "Builder of the Decade" by the International Champion Auto Show (ICAS) for the 1970 to 1980 period. His influence on custom car design was undeniable, and his creations became icons in the automotive world. In addition to his work on show cars, Jerry was also involved in other projects, including building a custom Corvette for the television show “The Magician.”
The custom Corvette built in 1973 for the television show 'The Magician.' (Picture from: PenningtonCollision)
In 1982, Jerry’s son, Ed Pennington, stepped in to manage the family business, continuing the tradition of excellence that Jerry had built. When Jerry passed away in 1990, Ed took on the responsibility of keeping Pennington Collision running, preserving his father’s legacy. The Pennington family remains dedicated to the craft, ensuring that Jerry’s vision and passion live on through their work. | NrM83sjM2UA |
The story of Jerry Pennington is not just about cars—it’s about dedication, creativity, and a lifelong commitment to innovation. His legacy continues to inspire custom car builders today, proving that with hard work and imagination, the boundaries of design can always be pushed further. The mark he left on the world of custom Corvettes will never fade, much like the vibrant red paint of the Scorpion that once dazzled show car audiences everywhere. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PENNINGTON COLLISION | MOTORTREND | STORY-CARS | AUTORAMA | CORVETTEBLOGGER | WEIRDWHEELS ]
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The car’s sleek shape was enhanced by parts sourced from other vehicles, such as tail lights from the Ford Mercury Comet, giving it a look that was both bold and contemporary. The focus was on creating a car that could house large engines like the 289 Ford V8 while maintaining a lightweight structure, ensuring that the Banjo GT had both speed and visual appeal.
From a musical instrument to a high-performance sports car, the Banjo name has been reimagined in a way that few could have predicted. The Banjo GT’s rarity, sleek design, and connection to American muscle cars ensure its place in the world of classic automobiles, cherished by those fortunate enough to own one. Curious about more forgotten American icons? Let’s dive in! *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOU RCES | BANJORUN | BRINGATRAILER | UNDISCOVERED CLASSIC | OCTANE-MAGAZIN | CLASSIC ANDRECREATION SPORTSCARS ]
