RARE ONES - In motorsports, few things are as thrilling as witnessing a high-performance machine push the limits of speed and engineering. Recently, McLaren introduced the McLaren W1, a car that builds on the legacy of iconic models like the P1 and the legendary F1, carving its own path and promising an exciting new chapter in automotive history.
The 1997 McLaren F1 GTR Longtail driving around in London back in 2022. (Picture from: id.Motor1)
For enthusiasts, the McLaren F1 is more than just a car; it represents a pinnacle of automotive achievement. Since its introduction in 1992, the McLaren F1 has captivated the imaginations of gearheads everywhere, not only for its record-breaking speeds but also for the groundbreaking design and engineering that make it a legend. As technology continues to evolve, especially with electric vehicles and forced induction systems becoming the norm, the legacy of naturally aspirated cars like the McLaren F1 grows even more significant.
Limited
to only 106 units ever produced during 1992 to 1998, including various
special editions, the McLaren F1 became a symbol of exclusivity and
automotive engineering prowess. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The McLaren F1, known for being the fastest production car powered solely by a naturally aspirated engine, remains an icon of speed. The car's unique engineering, spearheaded by the legendary designer Gordon Murray and supported by BMW's engine expert Paul Rosche, is a testament to what can be achieved when visionaries come together. The F1’s performance continues to stand the test of time, even in the face of modern automotive advancements. With new models likethe GMA T.50 being inspired by the F1’s engineering, the McLaren F1’s influence on the automotive world remains undeniable, cementing its place in history.
The McLaren F1 GTR, shown here as a 1995 model, was originally designed for racing under the international 'GT1' regulations, making it eligible for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. (Picture from: TopCarRating)
However, the car featured here is no ordinary McLaren F1; it’s the rarer F1 GTR Longtail. Initially created for racing purposes, the F1 GTR was produced in extremely limited numbers, with only 28 units ever made. The even more exclusive Longtail variantsaw just 10 built, each powered by a naturally aspirated BMW S70/2 V12 engine, making this speed machine truly exceptional.
The 1995 24 Hours of LeMans winning McLaren F1 GTR (chassis #01R) raced by Lanzante Motorsport (Kokusai Kaihatsu Racing). (Picture from: Wikipedia)
What sets this particular model apart is that it was modified for road use by Lanzante, a British workshop known for their meticulous craftsmanship. The idea of transforming a race car into a street-legal vehicle might seem controversial to purists, but it adds a unique dimension to the F1 GTR Longtail’s legacy. Some might argue that affixing a license plate to such a rare machine detracts from its pure racing heritage, yet it undeniably makes the car even more fascinating.
Interior view of the 1995 24 Hours of LeMans winning McLaren F1 GTR (chassis #01R). (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Spotting a supercar like the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail cruising the streets is a rare sight, even in a city like London, where luxury cars are a common feature. In 2022, this remarkable vehicle was spotted navigating the busy streets of the British capital. The juxtaposition of this high-powered machine against the urban backdrop is a sight to behold. Its presence alone is enough to turn heads, not just because of its rarity but also because it’s a car that many thought they’d only ever see on a racetrack. The spectacle of seeing it on city streets brings a sense of awe, highlighting just how far automotive design has come.
The 1996 McLaren F1 GTR while on action at Brands Hatch circuit. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The McLaren F1 GTR Longtail isn’t just about aesthetics or speed; it's also about the raw experience of driving. The three-seater setup, with the driver sitting centrally, offers a driving experience like no other. Yet, this isn’t a car designed for everyday use. It’s loud, impractical, and, with its low ground clearance, completely unsuited for navigating the narrow, uneven streets of cities like London.
The 1996 McLaren F1 GTR of Team Lark while on display at the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Every pothole or bump becomes a potential hazard, risking damage to the car's delicate underbody. Given how rare and exclusive the F1 GTR Longtail is, any repairs would likely come with an astronomical price tag. But for those lucky enough to own or drive one, the experience of taking this machine out on the road is surely worth the risks.
The 1997 McLaren F1 GTR "Long Tail" of Richard Smith driven by Kenny Bräck at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The presence of a license plate on such a rare hypercar might feel a little out of place, especially when it disrupts the car’s otherwise flawless rear design. This is a car built for speed and aerodynamics, and seeing it with a number plate may require a moment of adjustment. But despite this, the sheer joy of seeing the F1 GTR Longtail on the streets outweighs any aesthetic compromises. These cars, along with other legendary race cars like the Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR and Porsche 911 GT1 Straßenversion, represent a bygone era of automotive excellence. Unfortunately, it’s an era that we may never see again, at least not in the same form.
The 1997 McLaren F1 GTR "Long Tail" while in action at the 1998 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
While manufacturers today continue to innovate, especially with new racing classes like the LMDh, the creation of road-going versions of race cars is becoming increasingly rare. The regulations no longer force companies to build street-legal versions of their racing machines, meaning cars like the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail are becoming historical artifacts, cherished for their uniqueness. However, as automotive technology progresses, enthusiasts can still hope for future models that capture the same spirit of innovation, performance, and beauty that cars like the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail represent.
In a world where speed and technology constantly evolve, the McLaren F1 remains a symbol of what’s possible when brilliant minds come together. Its racing pedigree, combined with its road-going version’s rarity, make it a true legend in the automotive world. As cars continue to become more technologically advanced, the simplicity and purity of the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail will always remind us of a time when cars were built purely for the joy of driving and the thrill of speed. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MCLAREN | STANCEWORKS | ID.MOTOR1 | ID.MOTORSPORT | ULTIMATECARPAGE | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Real Speed Marvel - The world of hypercars has always been a domain where innovation, speed, and cutting-edge technology converge to push the limits of what a road-going vehicle can achieve. McLaren, a brand synonymous with high-performance engineering, has consistently led this charge. In 1992, McLaren introduced the F1, a car that not only redefined hypercars but set the standard for what they could be. Fast forward to 2012, and McLaren once again revolutionized the automotive industry with its first hybrid hypercar, the P1. Now, over three decades since the debut of the F1, McLaren is pushing the boundaries of performance and technology once more with the introduction of their latest marvel, the McLaren W1.
The McLaren W1 is the brand's newest halo model, paying tribute to the legendary F1 and P1 that paved its way. (Picture from: Motor1)
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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For enthusiasts, the McLaren F1 is more than just a car; it represents a pinnacle of automotive achievement. Since its introduction in 1992, the McLaren F1 has captivated the imaginations of gearheads everywhere, not only for its record-breaking speeds but also for the groundbreaking design and engineering that make it a legend. As technology continues to evolve, especially with electric vehicles and forced induction systems becoming the norm, the legacy of naturally aspirated cars like the McLaren F1 grows even more significant.
In a world where speed and technology constantly evolve, the McLaren F1 remains a symbol of what’s possible when brilliant minds come together. Its racing pedigree, combined with its road-going version’s rarity, make it a true legend in the automotive world. As cars continue to become more technologically advanced, the simplicity and purity of the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail will always remind us of a time when cars were built purely for the joy of driving and the thrill of speed. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MCLAREN | STANCEWORKS | ID.MOTOR1 | ID.MOTORSPORT | ULTIMATECARPAGE | WIKIPEDIA ]
