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Mitsubishi Motors Corporation held the world premiere of the Mitsubishi XFC Concept, a compact SUV concept car, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The vehicle will be on display at the 2022 Vietnam Motor Show. With the concept of being the "best-suited buddy for an exciting life," the Mitsubishi XFC Concept is a next-generation compact SUV that offers the powerful and imposing design of an SUV, utility such as ease of handling and ample cargo space, comfort including a class-leading interior space, and safe, secure road handling even on rough surfaces or roads flooded by heavy rains. "We will launch the new compact SUV sequentially in the ASEAN markets, including Vietnam, in the fiscal year 2023," said Takao Kato, president, and chief executive officer of Mitsubishi Motors. "In the future, we plan to add an electrified variant to the lineup and roll it out in regions outside ASEAN. We hope to grow the model from a vehicle for the ASEAN market to a global strategic vehicle, making it a core model like the sales-leading Xpander crossover MPV." The Mitsubishi XFC Concept is a compact SUV not part of the current ASEAN lineup. It complements Mitsubishi Motors' wide range of products tailored to the ASEAN market - the Triton pickup truck and its derivative, the Pajero Sport midsize SUV; the Outlander and Outlander PHEV midsize SUVs; the Xpander and Xpander Cross crossover MPVs; and the Mirage compact hatchback and its variant, the Attrage sedan. Powerful and imposing design In line with Mitsubishi Motors' design philosophy of Robust & Ingenious, the Mitsubishi XFC Concept combines a compact yet the powerful and imposing aura of an SUV with a sleek surface that forms one continuous flow, starting from the three-diamond emblem on the front and extends to the sides and rear. This gives it a stylish and sporty profile to match the cityscapes of the ASEAN region. In addition, with enhanced road handling on rough surfaces thanks to ample ground clearance and large-diameter wheels, the Mitsubishi XFC Concept expresses both toughness and agility while featuring an authentic SUV styling that stands out in outdoor scenes. At the front, the Dynamic Shield concept, which expresses performance and protection, has evolved in line with the concept. The L-shaped headlight in the headlight unit's upper portion combines with the louver-like daytime running lights (DRL) below to light up in an iconic T-shape, which shows a sense of broadness. The sides of the body are composed of rich, muscular surfaces, with sculpted front and rear fender flares and character lines expressing the power and dynamism of an SUV. Like the front, the rear also features T-shaped tail lights to create a rear styling that accentuates wideness and stability. The interior offers ease of operation and comfort, which are essential for an SUV. For the instrument panel, a horizontally themed design is adopted, making it easier to sense changes in the vehicle's posture when driving on rough surfaces and improving forward visibility. Meanwhile, the dynamic design extending from the instrument panel to the door trim and a series of soft padding gives a sense of enclosure and protection to create a secure and comfortable interior. The utility provided by the ease of handling and ample cargo space The Mitsubishi XFC Concept is designed for ease of operation, providing good forward visibility, easy perception of the vehicle's dimensions, and smooth handling. The instrument panel features a large display panel integrating a fully digital driver display and a center display that can show three separate pieces of information, such as navigation, road surface conditions, and other information necessary for driving on one screen to provide a safe and comfortable driving environment while also expressing a sense of advanced design. Despite its compact body size, the Mitsubishi XFC Concept is also designed for utility with ample cargo space. Comfort provided by class-leading interior space Although it is a compact SUV, the Mitsubishi XFC Concept comes with a spacious cabin area. In particular, its generous legroom in the rear seats offers top-level comfort in its class. Moreover, everyone on board can feel safe and reassured, with vehicle stability control in slippery road conditions and high-quality ride comfort. Safe and reliable driving on rough and flooded roads With plenty of ground clearance and four drive modes - Normal, Wet, Gravel, and Mud - the Mitsubishi XFC Concept offers a fun, safe and secure ride in various weather and road conditions. The Wet mode, introduced in a Mitsubishi vehicle, is designed with use in ASEAN countries in mind, such as enabling safe driving even on roads flooded by sudden showers. Source: Mitsubishi Press Release Images: Mitsubishi Motors

Pietro Frua designed the Swiss coach builders' one-off based on the XK150. The car exists in the hands of a private collector. Comment if more is known about this rare one-off Jaguar. Source & Images: carsthatnevermadeitetc

On a bubble top kick, Tremulis – with help from Bill Balla – designed the X-2000 in 1956-1957. Like Tremulis's X-1000 that preceded the X-2000, little on the car was meant to predict the shapes or features of Fords of the immediate future; they were intended to be advanced concepts of the far-flung automotive future. However, the Farrells note that the X-2000′s grille shape predicted Edsel's horse-collar grille. Not many automotive historians connect Tremulis to the Edsel's most distinctive shape today, possibly because the X-2000 was only completed as a 3/8-scale model (a full-size clay was in the works but was canceled before completion) and only shown in person at the Ford Rotunda. This amazing creation is the Ford X2000, a styling fantasy from 1958, which the Ford design department thought we might just be driving in the year 2000. One of the most distinctive features is that nose was not particularly modern, nor plausible, even back in 1958: The grille and bonnet (hood) are related to those of the 1957 Ford Edsel, the car that lost Ford serious amounts of money. In that context, the vertical oval motif was variously called the "egg on end," "sucking lemons," "horse collar," "impact ring," and other names that are more anatomical and even rude. The passenger compartment is very Jetson's Sci-Fi, but the rear end is a typical 1950s yank tank apart from the bolt-on rocket booster tail-lights. Don't be too hard on the 1958 designers Alex Tremulis and Bill Balla; it is tough to predict the future. What will we all be driving in 2040? What odds will you give on the Moller Skycar? The 1958 X2000 was originally just a scale model, but an English enthusiast, Andy Saunders, saw it in the "Dream Cars" book (J-R Picard 1981), pursued the impossible dream - and built one. The X2000 has been doing the rounds of Motor Shows. Source: Daniel Strohl - blog.hemmings.com; www.4wdonline.com Images: Ford

Although the day when there will be an aero car in every garage still may be far off, Ford research designers developed this 3/8-scale model to show how such a vehicle might look. Named the Volante, the model was not operable but represented a design concept of a vehicle capable of operating in the air or on the ground. The tri-athodyne concept called for the ultra-sophisticated use of the ducted fan principle, which is employed uniquely. The front rotor featured two sets of contra-rotating blades in conjunction with two opposite-rotating, multi-bladed fans in the rear. This system theoretically canceled out all propeller torque characteristics, showing that aerodynamic tail surfaces were unnecessary. The Volante would be controlled by adjustable lateral and longitudinal vanes, allowing complete maneuverability in all directions. The tri-ducted fan arrangement also inspired Ford designers to take full advantage of the delta-shaped aerodynamic configuration. In 1958, Ford built several 3/8-scale concept car models, including the Volante, which supposedly could use three fan motors to levitate from a parking place and take to the air. But the most amazing of these models was the Nucleon. What may have looked like a Continental kit sitting on the large and flat rear deck was the cover for a small nuclear reactor that would power the car through the Atomic Age. Source: Ford Motor Company; Larry Edsall, www.theautochannel.com Images: Ford Motor Company; www.shorey.net

The Nucleon, a 3/8-scale model, provided a glimpse into the atomic-powered future. Designed on the assumption that the present bulkiness and weight of nuclear reactors and attendant shielding would someday be reduced, the Nucleon was intended to probe the possible design influence of atomic power in automobiles. The model featured a power capsule suspended between twin booms at the rear. The capsule, containing a radioactive core for motive power, would be easily interchangeable at the driver's option, according to performance needs and the distance to be traveled. Cars like the Nucleon might be able to travel 5,000 miles or more, depending on the size of the core, without recharging. At that time, they would be taken to a charging station, which research designers envisioned as essentially replacing gas stations. The drive train would be part of the power package, and electronic torque converters might take the place of the drive train used at the time. The passenger compartment of the Nucleon featured a one-piece, pillar-less windshield, and compound rear window and was topped by a cantilever roof. There were air intakes at the leading edge of the roof and the base of its supports. Cars such as the Nucleon illustrate the extent to which research into the future was conducted at Ford and demonstrate the designer's unwillingness to admit that a thing cannot be done simply because it has not been done. Source: Ford Motor Company Images: Ford Motor Company; Collections of The Henry Ford - www.thehenryford.org, www.dia.org

Ford worked its way through many contorted schools of styling, such as the Z-back roof (in the 1957 La Galaxie). It became increasingly unhinged as it proposed a nuclear-powered dream car called the Nucleon in 1958, a gyroscopically controlled two-wheeled vehicle called the Gyron in 1961, a three-wheeled flying car called the Volante the same - ear and a vast six-wheeler called the Seattle-ite in 1962. It should not be surprising that, after that lot. Ford's design team and the public had a dream-car hangover, and Dearborn's output of show specials petered out in the 1960s. A portion of the 1958 Ford exhibit was set up as a Ford Motor Company design studio. The full-size, non-drivable La Galaxie styling study was a centerpiece, surrounded by several 3/8 scale Ford dream cars. These smaller models included names like "La Tosca," which was a radio-controlled toy; the atomic-powered, jet-style "Nucleon" and a sports car titled "DePaolo." Source: AUTO LEMON; www.chicagoautoshow.com Images: Ford

This Ford concept car appears in the 1966 book Automobiles of the Future by Irwin Stambler. The description of the vehicle appears below. "Exotic engines of tomorrow may provide the power for a sports car such as this, which could be mass-produced while keeping the appearance of a racing car." Though Tremulis didn't design the 1956 DePaolo 3/8-scale model, another of Tremulis's designs (the DePalma) inspired Buzz Grisinger to submit the DePaolo design for Ford's Stylerama program. Named for Peter DePaolo, Indy 500 winner and, later, Ford racing coordinator, the design – which looks to borrow much from contemporary Bonneville streamliners and "represent an inversion of the form most typical of American automotive styling," according to the Farrells – eventually became the catalyst for Robert McNamara's interchangeability program, which aimed to reduce costs by creating standard body panels across the Ford, Mercury, and Edsel model lines. The Farrells credit Tremulis with several other concept cars, including the DePalma and X-1000, the 1954 Mexico, the 1954 Taj Mahal, the 1955 Madam X, the 1956 999 dragsters, the late 1950s Wind Brake Car, the 1956 Scorpion, and the 1961 Astrion. He would find his own consulting and design firm after leaving Ford. Source: www.paleofuture.com; Daniel Strohl - blog.hemmings.com Images: Ford

Shown below is the 1958 Fiat 1400 B Berlina by Savio. Little is known about this vehicle, comment if more is known. Images: Fiat

Shortly after the release of the 750, in 1954, Moretti introduced the 1200. Using a 1204cc twin-cam engine with 62bhp, it was built with various coupe bodies (at least four different versions) and (in 1955) as a 'Spider Sport' with multiple body styles. Later in the 1950's Moretti also built some 2+2 Coupes with a 1470cc DOHC engine, producing 120bhp. Versions included the 1500 Coupe Tipo America, the 1500 E G.T., and the 1500 E G.T. Veloce - Golden Arrow, the latter with two twin carburetors. Source: www.carsfromitaly.net Images: ruoteclassiche.quattroruote.it

The 1958 Dual-Ghia 400 prototype inspired Chrysler's 1957 Dart show car. This one-of-a-kind 400-horsepower 140-mph show car debuted at the New York auto show in 1958. The car is built on the chassis of a 1957 Chrysler 300. If General Motors had the strength and means to translate all their automotive dreams into metal independently, then other American car builders were often unable to do this - and they had to resort to overseas services, primarily Italian bodybuilders. Introduced in 1956, the Chrysler Dart Super Gilda coupe, built according to an American design by the famous Turin atelier Carrozzeria Ghia, was a development of the revolutionary prototype Ghia Gilda (1955), adapted to the chassis of a Chrysler car with a boost to a return of 400 hp. V-shaped eight-cylinder FirePower engine. With this car, the top could be moved into the trunk, turning it into an open one. The 1958 Dual-Ghia 400 prototype appears in a slightly modernized form: you can see that the Chrysler Dart had a different design of the tail "fins," and there was no decorative "air intake" on the hood. Source: Newspaper AUTO REVIEW 2003 / No. 18 Images: www.classiccarcatalogue.com

The Imperial was designed by Virgil Exner and hailed by Chrysler as 'The Finest Car America Has Yet Produced.' A very bold statement considering some of the masterpieces produced by Packard, Cadillac, and countless others. This was Chrysler's first vehicle to have a wraparound windshield. This was Chrysler's interpretation of an actual luxury automobile. Produced in limited numbers, only 11,430 examples were created in 1955. The Chrysler Imperial D'Elegance was a styling exercise designed by Virgil Exner, and its existence remained a concept car. Many of the styling cues would eventually be used on other lines, such as the Valiant and Imperials. The sloping trunk profile was incorporated into the 1960 Valiant, and the sweep-spear on the side of the car would later be used by the Valiant but positioned in the other direction. The fins, suspended lighting, and dashboard were (with alterations) used on the 1961 to 1963 Imperials. The taillight pods were part of the 1962 Dodge model lineup. Other design elements were used by the Lebaron, Custom, and crowned Imperial by Ghia. The Imperial d'Elegance Concept was a combination of forward-thinking and the inclusion of popular design elements. It had a wraparound windshield, covered rear wheels, and rear tail fins that were popular during the late 1950s. The flush door handles, squared-off steering wheel, and hidden headlights were new design ideas introduced to the automotive community. Supposedly Exner was never pleased with this car, but it is just chock full of embryonic design themes that he used in modified form on production cars within a few years. - The greenhouse and sloping trunk profile went to the '60 Valiant - The sweep spear on the side of the car appeared on the Valiant, but going in the other direction - The fin treatment with suspended lighting appeared on the '61 Imperial - The dashboard appears to be virtually identical to the 61-63 Imperial - The taillight pods (minus the fins above!) appeared on the '62 Dodge - The eyebrows and hood shape appeared on the '60 Imperial It is difficult to see in these photos, but the door handles are most unusual - the buttons are positioned right in the middle of the cut lines of the door openings. How did they work, how were they attached so they wouldn't bind the unopened door, and what was the point esthetically? Source: Chris Hawkins via www.imperialclub.com; conceptcarz Images: Mario Buonocunto Concept Cars Page; www.petersen.org

Designed and built under the personal supervision of Bill Mitchell, the wild-looking XP-700 used many regular Corvette components, such as the frame, chassis parts, and engine. Bill Mitchell had a lot of "customs" built for himself. This XP-700 previewed the new tail of the upcoming 1961 Corvette. The elliptical grille cavity strongly resembled a one-off Ferrari 250GT by Pininfarina. The fiberglass body was extensively redesigned with a "grand prix" appearance. The long, low front overhang, large air scoops, exposed frontal areas, and wire wheels with racing hubs were a few of the 'grand prix' touches. The XP-700 received the blessing of management and was going to be used to travel the show car circuit after it had been Mitchell's personal car for a year. Before this, the vehicle received extensive remodeling. The grille cavity was refashioned in a more elliptical shape, and the car was resprayed metallic gold. The front under-tray air scoop seems inspired by aircraft design. Harley Earl liked bubble tops, hence the XP-700's double bubble Plexiglass top that was added in October of 1959. Also, the rear of the XP-700 is revised, lengthened, and exaggerated, and a periscopic rear-view mirror is added. These new looks were revealed to the public in April 1960 at the 4th International Automobile Show in New York. Originally painted red, the version that appeared during the 1961 Chicago Auto Show was finished in pearlescent silver, which matched the silver cockpit. The exposed side pipes were retained from the 1959 version, as were the rear wraparound bodylines that predicted the design used on the 1961-1962 production Corvette. The rear-end styling influenced the second-generation Corvette models. The bubble-shaped laminated plastic canopy – coated with vaporized aluminum to help block the sun's rays – was one of the car's most striking features. A metal strut in the center of the canopy featured louvered vents, which enhanced circulation in the passenger compartment. Among the more exotic concepts: An overhead mirror mounted above the windshield with a viewing porthole in the roof structure. Source: Remarkable Corvettes Images: www.shorey.net

The Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina manufactured two convertibles and two coupés for Cadillac. The design of the Cadillac Skylight was noticeably smoother than that of previous Cadillac concept cars. The radiator grille with thin, horizontal chrome bars stretched across the entire vehicle width and reached around the vehicle corners. Above it sat twin headlights, under which rectangular indicators were embedded in the grille. The front and rear of the vehicle were tilted forward; the tail fins towered high. The spoked wheels wore whitewall tires. Between 1958 and 1961, the Italian coachbuilder Pinin Farina - whose company name was changed to Pininfarina (in one word) in 1961 - drew great inspiration from the Cadillac Eldorado Brougham project. During that time, they designed and built four exclusive, custom bodies. 1958 Cadillac Skylight Coupe Concept by Pininfarina 1958 Cadillac Skylight Convertible Concept by Pininfarina 1959 Cadillac Starlight Concept by Pininfarina 1961 Cadillac PF Jacqueline by Pininfarina Source: www.car-nection.com; carrozzieri-italiani Images: Pininfarina, www.shorey.net; www.motortrend.com

One of a series of Pininfarina proposals for Cadillac that never progressed beyond the concept stage. Between 1958 and 1961, the Italian coach-builder Pinin Farina - whose company name was changed to Pininfarina (in one word) in 1961 - drew great inspiration from the Cadillac Eldorado Brougham project. During that time, they designed and built four exclusive, custom bodies. 1958 Cadillac Skylight Coupe Concept by Pininfarina 1958 Cadillac Skylight Convertible Concept by Pininfarina 1959 Cadillac Starlight Concept by Pininfarina 1961 Cadillac PF Jacqueline by Pininfarina Source: www.car-nection.com Images: Pininfarina

This was a two-passenger coupe with twin white leather bucket seats. It was hand-built by Pininfarina in Turin, Italy. Its wing-like rear fins became a 1959 Buick styling feature, and its sculptured metal side treatment is a hallmark of the 1960 Buick line. Features included power windows, air conditioning, paddle-type door releases, floor-mounted transmission lever, vertically indicating radio, and a specially designed steering wheel. The engine was a 348-cubic-inch V-8. This car, featured in GM's Golden Milestone Parade in 1958, no longer exists. In the distant now fifty-eighth corporation General Motors equaled half a century. On the occasion of the "golden jubilee" or, more simply, the "glorious fiftieth anniversary," a ceremonial exhibition of the latest achievements of the jubilee corporation was organized. And especially for this exhibition, a unique two-seater car Buick XP-75 was ordered in Italy from the famous Pininfarina company. Now, from the height of past years, we can see that his wings are just like those of the production models of 1959, and the relief of the sidewalls is like that of the production models of 1960. But no one knew this - after all, even until 1959, and even more so until 1960, one still had to live! The 1958 Buick XP-75 prototype was all-metal, with top-quality natural white leather trim. The windows were electric, and the transmission was "automatic," but with a lever on the floor, that is, on the Cardan tunnel, and not on the steering column; there was air conditioning, a built-in radio with a vertical dial, and a solid 5.7-liter V-8 under the hood. Yes, all for the same reason - this car was not preserved; it did not reach us, the descendants. The Italian masters were fond of hiding their flaws with a thick layer of primer or even melted the bodies with tin: handmade, what do you want! .. So this insanely beautiful Buick XP-75, most likely, has rotted in the most vulgar way. It's a pity. These cars need to live. Source: www.welovebuicks.com; auto-planet.org.ua Images: Pininfarina

One of the most beautiful English cars in the fifties was the Alvis TD21, a four-seater sedan with a sleek, two-door body. Initially presented as the Type 108/G, the car's underpinnings were primarily based on the much more conservatively styled TC21 Grey Lady, with a separate chassis and relatively modern 3 liters in-line six engines, with seven main bearings, which had been introduced in 1950. The new car was designed by the Swiss company of Hermann Graber, which had already gained a sizeable reputation with numerous designs in mainland Europe. A vehicle prototype was unveiled in 1955, and it was planned that Alvis would build the bodies under license from Graber, although several cars were directly supplied by Graber as well. In 1958 a new body version was presented, which had been further developed in cooperation with Park Ward, who would also take over the construction. From then on, the car became known as the TD21. It also became available with an open top. On the technical side, it is noticeable that the car was the first to have Lockheed Disc Brakes as an optional feature, costing 15 pounds, including purchase tax. Furthermore, there was a choice between a four-speed manual and a three-speed Borg Warner Autobox. Over the years, the car did not change much, but in 1961 a Series II version was presented, with 4 Dunlop Disc brakes as standard and some changes to the foglights and the rear light units. Also, some modifications to the glasshouse and interior parts were made. Engine power had gradually increased over time from 105 initially via 115 to about 130 for the SII. Graber produced several amazing bodies on the chassis, and in 1963, the last version appeared, recognizable by double vertical headlights and a further increased engine power from 130 to 150 BHP. This version was dubbed TE21, and a final engine tweak with three carbs resulted in the TF21, which could reach a top speed of over 190 kph. Alvis folded as a car company in 1967. The TD21 was phased out in 1964, and 1070 units were made, plus 16 of the initial 108/G model. The TE version saw a total production of 352, while the TF with 106 became the rarest version. Source: www.ultimatecarpage.com Images: www.classiccars.co.uk

In 1958, Abarth updated their small ‘750 GT Zagato' racecar and renamed it ‘750 Record Monza Zagato'. The most significant upgrade was a new DOHC cylinder head specially designed for the Fiat 600D engine. As early as 1956, Abarth had already built up a reputation as a premier tuner of Fiat engines and was branching out into many motorsport classes. To compete in the 750cc class of the Grand Touring Championship, Abarth commissioned Zagato to rebody the Fiat 600 into a purposeful racecar. A number of prototype cars were made in 1956; one appeared at the 1956 Mille Miglia to place second in class. Thanks to Zagato's weight-saving body, the first cars weighed 1179 lbs (535 kg) and took advantage of Abarth's 747cc tuned engine. With a high compression head and specially made exhaust, the power was rated at 47 bhp @ 6000 rpm.; The production 'Zagato 750 GT' debuted at the 1956 Geneva Motor Show, and the first cars were sold at the beginning of 1957. The final design included twin bumperettes, Zagato's double-bubble roof, and twin intakes on the rear engine cover. Five of these cars finished the Mille Miglia in 1957, and Alfonso Thiele won the 750cc class. In July of 1957, Abarth committed to funding a record-breaking car with a sleek Pininfarina-designed body, tube frame chassis, and 747cc engine. Raced around the Monza circuit for four days, the car took 15 new records, including the fastest average speed of 165.376 kph for 72 hours straight. At the 1958 Paris Motor Show, Abarth launched and renamed the ‘750 GT Zagato' into the ’750 Record Monza Zagato'. This was done to honor the record-breaking car's results a year earlier. Along with the new name came design updates. The engine now had the specially-made DOHC cylinder head, which raised horsepower to 57 bhp. Zagato also modified the rear end to include three-quarter windows. Aa' Record Monza' badge fitted to both DOHC and the single-cam car was included on the window posts. Zagato also opted for a standard roof over the double-bubble used on the first series of vehicles. During the 1959 season, the more potent record Monza racked up an impressive series of victories. Four of these cars contested the 12 Hours of Sebring entered by Team Roosevelt with complete factory support. The cars finished 1-2-3-4 and were predominantly featured in the American press. This success continued overseas, both in circuit racing and in hill climbs. The success of the Record Monza caught the world's attention. In the following years, Abarth raced similar cars powered by 850cc and 1-liter engines. Called Biaberos, they weren't bodied by Zagato and instead finished at Abarth's workshops. Specifications: type Racing Car built in Turin, Italy engine Inline-4 position Rear, Longitudinal aspiration Natural valvetrain DOHC, 2 Valves per Cyl fuel feed 2 Twin-Choke Weber 36DCL4 displacement 747 cc / 45.6 in³ bore 61 mm / 2.4 in stroke 64 mm / 2.52 in compression 4.3:1 power 42.5 kw / 57 bhp @ 7000 rpm output 76.31 bhp per litre bhp/weight 100.0 bhp per tonne driven wheels RWD front tires 5.20×12 rear tires 5.20×12 front brakes Drums rear brakes Drums steering Worm & Sector f suspension Upper Trailing Arms w/Lower Transverse Leaf Spring, Hydrualic Dampers r suspension Trailing Arms w/Coil Springs, Hydraulic Dampers, curb weight 570 kg / 1257 lbs wheelbase 2000 mm / 78.7 in front track 1150 mm / 45.3 in rear track 1160 mm / 45.7 in length 3470 mm / 136.6 in width 1350 mm / 53.1 in height 1140 mm / 44.9 in transmission 4-Speed Manual top speed ~190 kph / 118.1 mph Source: SuperCars Images: Zagato; www.bernimotori.com

​The Abarth-Alfa Romeo 1000 GT Berlinetta was a prototype built by Abarth in collaboration with Alfa Romeo in 1958. ​ Development The car's design was made to bring to the market a sports sedan bearing the mark of the house of the biscione. For this reason, the Milanese industry turned to Carlo Abarth for its realization, as it had lasted a collaboration agreement with him for two years. The project was not brought into series production after an initial presentation at the Turin motor show as the Italian-Austrian engineer became a partner of Fiat. ​ Technique The body's design was entrusted to Bertone, who had it designed by Franco Scaglione. The tubular chassis of the car was developed by Mario Colucci, while the engine derived from the one used on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1300, as well as the gearbox, transmission, and braking system. The engine was developed with new sports components, achieving a power of 88 hp. ​ The accident & L.Colani new body design The prototype of the "1000 GT Coupé" was destroyed in 1959, during some tests conducted on the track of the AVUS, due to a tire explosion. The car wreck was left to Herbert Schulze, an Alfa Romeo dealer in Berlin. A few weeks later entrusted him to the stylist Luigi Colani to have a new fiberglass body made, with substantial aesthetic changes in the rear part. The tubular frame was retained, and replaced the engine with a "Giulietta" engine of 1300 cc. Even in the new production, the prototype did not follow production. ​ Multitubular chassis: designed by Mario Colluci, one of the most appreciated technicians detached by Alfa for the occasion. Bodywork: aluminum made by Bertone on a drawing by Franco Scaglione. Mechanical: Engine, suspensions, and the bridge of the Alfa SV Gearbox: 5-speed Porsche Engine reduced to 998cc, 88 hp weight ratio power 2.27 kg / hp (9.2 for an SV) the short wheelbase of 2.16 m weight: 640Kg Max speed: 200 Km/h It was also planned to use a 1300 cc engine and a 1600cc, 233Km/h is announced for the 1300cc and 250Km/h for the 1600cc. Presented at the Turin Salon in October 1958, it made a sensation. In 1959 during tests on the Avus in Berlin, the tires did not withstand the pressure, and the car suffered colossal damage. Herbert Schulze, the Alfa Romeo dealer in Berlin, bought the car and had it repaired by Luigi Colani. Colani, born in Berlin, is of Kurdish and Polish descent, and his father came from Madulain near St. Moritz in eastern Switzerland. He studied sculpture and painting at the Academy of Arts, Berlin, in 1946 and 1948, and he undertook the study of aerodynamics at the Sorbonne in Paris, France. His long career began in the 1950s when he designed cars for companies such as Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Volkswagen, and BMW. In 1957, he dropped his given first name Lutz and henceforth went by the name of Luigi. His unconventional designs have made him famous, not only in design circles but also to the general public. He has received numerous design awards, although his unconventional approach has left him largely an outsider from the mainstream of industrial design. Source: Historic Automotive Promotion Images: www.bernimotori.com; www.shorey.net; www.forum-auto.com

Exceedingly rare and beautifully Fiat Abarth 750 Spider with coachwork by Allemano. While most of Carlo Abarth's offerings were closed cars, some of his clients preferred open vehicles for competition. He was aware that a roadster could succeed in the profitable U.S. market. As such, he commissioned a Spider from Zagato based upon the 750GT. With Zagato's initial designs drawing only limited appeal, Abarth turned to Carrozzeria Allemano, the Turin-based coachbuilder famous for their work with Maserati throughout the 1950s. Their efforts result in a unique, sleek, and sporty Spider while retaining a period Italian charm. Source: www.hemmings.com Images: Abarth

Ford once again sounds like a wake-up call for sports car lovers worldwide with the introduction of the all-new Ford Mustang. The seventh generation is the most exhilarating and visceral yet, from its fighter jet-inspired digital cockpit to new advanced turbocharged and naturally aspirated engines to its edgier yet timeless exterior design. "Investing in another generation of Mustang is a big statement when many of our competitors are exiting the business of internal combustion vehicles," said Jim Farley, CEO of Ford Motor Company. "Ford, however, is turbocharging its ICE growth plan, adding connected technology, opinionated derivatives, and hybrid options to our most profitable and popular cars - all in the Ford Blue family - on top of investing $50 billion in electric vehicles through 2026." The new Ford Mustang adds another chapter to an icon, delivering the looks, sound, and appeal of the world's best-selling sports coupe for seven years running. Whether convertible or coupe, V8 or turbocharged 4-cylinder, manual or automatic, Mustang has options at multiple price points and performance levels. A completely rethought interior Behind the chiseled exterior silhouette of the seventh-generation Mustang lies the most technologically advanced, driver-centric cockpit of any Mustang to date. The fighter jet-inspired cockpit offers the driver two flowing and curved displays that can be quickly customized to show the information the driver wants or needs. The car's 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster can be customized to display different animated designs and new drive-mode-dependent visuals. Based on the same Unreal Engine 3D creation tool used in modern video games, the car's current setup is displayed on the center stack as real-time graphical renderings when choosing personalized drive mode settings. Settings can be adjusted by simply swiping the graphic to rotate the vehicle virtually in a true gamified style. "We're taking advantage of every pixel," said Craig Sandvig, Ford Mustang interaction design manager. "We can be creative in showing necessary driving information and give the driver control of selecting colors, classic Mustang gauges, or even a 'calm' screen where only minimal details are displayed." Mustang's default instrument gauge setting has shifted from traditional, cool blue and light grey tones to an ultra-modern, copper appearance theme also shared with Mustang Mach-E. Almost everything in the displays - and the ambient interior lighting - can be configured to selected tones, while instrument clusters adapt to drive mode selection. When choosing personalized drive mode settings, the car's current setup is displayed on the center stack as real-time graphical renderings. Settings can be adjusted by simply swiping the graphic to rotate the vehicle virtually in a true gamified style. This digital instrument cluster can be optionally configured to flow seamlessly into a 13.2-inch SYNC® 4 center stack behind a single piece of integrated glass that's angled toward the driver. "We knew what customers wanted and designed the most digital Mustang ever while retaining the all-important driver-focused cockpit," said Ricardo Garcia, Ford interior design manager. "Removing some of these physical buttons, such as radio and climate control, and integrating them into a digital display was popular in research with Millennials, Gen-Z, and traditional Mustang drivers alike." Beyond the screen, an all-new race-inspired flat-bottomed steering wheel provides more space when getting seated. Outside the vehicle, animated welcome lighting greets drivers as they approach, and upon entry, Mustang splash screens come to life. And for those who enjoy the sound of a revving engine, Mustang introduces Remote Rev, providing the ability to rev the car's engine remotely using the key fob. Mustang has a standard cloth interior featuring all-cloth seats, optional Micro-Suede vinyl inserts, and black seat belts. At the same time, Premium models benefit from upgraded wrapped and accent stitched across the instrument panel and door trim. EcoBoost models feature Ford's 'ActiveX' synthetic leather upholstery with multiple color options, while GT models gain leather seat inserts. Higher series models offer an upgraded, full-leather steering wheel, a choice of color accent stitching, and a unique upholstery perforation across the seat inserts, complemented by color-coordinated, asymmetric accent striping on the seat belts. The center console can also incorporate an available wireless mobile phone charging pad. At the same time, new overhead USB ports are installed above the cockpit, conveniently placed for track cameras and other devices, helping prevent wires from draping across the cabin. The available B&O Sound System is optimized for the car's interior, contributing to the visceral experience of Mustang ownership. Customers can share the ultimate driving playlist through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are fully compatible with SYNC 4. Amazon Alexa Built-In with Ford Streaming allows music and podcasts to be played with simple voice commands. Like the all-electric Mustang Mach-E SUV, the all-new Mustang features Ford Power-Up software update capability. Edgier design with timeless Mustang cues, plus more customization The seventh generation adds modern chiseled looks to its heritage-inspired design, which sets out to appeal to the broadest Mustang customer mindset yet. Its low, horizontal brow across the front emphasizes overall frontal width, while the upper grille shape is influenced by the original 1960s design. The Tri-Bar LED headlamps continue the Mustang's classic lighting signature. Its sleek roofline, broad sprinting stance, and shortened rear overhang are also faithful to the exact proportions of the first generation, while the widened rear haunches point to the power over the wheels in true Mustang style. The roofline is optimized for driver entry and exit without removing their helmet on the track. An extended rear deck houses a new crisp signature tri-bar lighting and redesigned diffuser for improved aerodynamic balance in the rear. Each model in the Mustang lineup carries its unique front end. GT is differentiated from EcoBoost models by larger, more aggressive grille openings engineered to allow increased airflow, reflecting the increase in power and performance. The car's aerodynamics are optimized further with new hood vents and redesigned front splitter. "Both the EcoBoost and Mustang GT have unique styling cues that deliver on their promise of Mustang Performance," said Christopher Walter, Ford Mustang design manager. "The new Mustang is chiseled and edgier, leaning into Mustang's classic brawniness and timelessness." Ford Mustang convertible continues its drop-top legacy offering maximum open-air freedom. A simple, one-touch activation with a single-handle center latch opens and closes the fully lined and insulated fabric roof. The compact roof design and independent rear suspension also contribute toward segment-leading trunk space that can accommodate up to two golf bags. The all-new Mustang launches with 11 exterior color options, including two new shades, Vapor Blue and Yellow Splash, complemented by new stripe colors and designs. Customers also can choose from three Brembo brake caliper color options: Black, Red, and Grabber Blue, plus an all-new lineup of alloy wheels, ranging from 17-inch standard size on base models to 19-inch for GT with optional 20-inch alloy wheels. The Mustang Design Series is new for the 2024 model year, providing further customization options straight from the factory. The Bronze Design Series Appearance Package adds Sinister Bronze alloy wheels with bronze badges and is available on both EcoBoost and GT models, with or without the optional Performance Pack. Most Advanced and Athletic Engines Ever The way Mustang looks, drives, and sounds are vital to the experience that makes customers want to get in the driver's seat and hit the road. The all-new Mustang delivers an even more exciting driving experience with new and advanced engine technologies. It starts with Mustang GT, now powered by an advanced, 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine. The fourth-generation 5.0-liter delivers the most naturally aspirated horsepower of any Ford Mustang GT thanks to an innovative dual air intake box and dual-throttle body design that helps minimize induction loss by enabling higher air flow rates. "This is the most athletic and confidence-inspiring Mustang EcoBoost and GT to drive yet," said Ed Krenz, Ford Mustang chief nameplate engineer. "Whether driving an automatic or manual transmission, thanks to driving modes combined with h fine-tuned digital engine, suspension, and steering controls; we're now able to give drivers peak performance everywhere, from their favorite roads to their local track." Ford has saved the manual transmission for a new generation, and the 5.0-liter V8 continues to offer a standard six-speed manual transmission for customers who want an uncompromised connection to eight-cylinder power. Ford's advanced 10-speed automatic transmission is available, and it almost instantaneously reconfigures its shift patterns to match the selected drive mode. Customers who desire Mustang's fun-to-drive feeling with fuel efficiency benefits can opt for the EcoBoost model, powered by an all-new, four-cylinder turbocharged 2.3-liter powertrain. The feeling of freedom and confidence Mustang instills in its drivers is amplified when they take control of how the car behaves. On a twisty back road or a weekend track day, the driver can quickly adjust steering effort, engine response, and transmission and electronic stability control settings through six drive modes to create the perfect Mustang anytime. These are Normal, Sport, Slippery, Drag, and Track, plus a customizable environment with up to six individual profiles tailored to the driver's view ahead of them. As each mode is selected, high-fidelity graphics in the digital instrument panel bring the way to life. Mustang GT and EcoBoost models are both available with an optional Performance Pack, which adds a host of track-focused features, including a front Tower Brace, Torsen® Limited Slip differential and optional MagneRide active suspension, wider rear wheels and tires, and more significant, 390-millimeter front and 355-millimeter rear Brembo brakes. The GT Performance Pack adds brake ducts for even more enhanced cooling and a standard auxiliary engine oil cooler. Performance Pack also offers optional Recaro® seats and active exhaust. Ford Mustang GT with manual transmission includes standard rev-matching that helps hold engine RPM when the clutch is engaged. This retains peak torque between manual gear changes, delivering even more precision, thrill, and better refinement. Quicker steering ratios and minimal compliance from the steering wheel to tire significantly enhances the car's cornering dynamics, with increased straight-line power. A segment-first electronic drift brake takes new technology to the racetrack, unlocking the rear-wheel-drive drifting capability of Mustang with the visual appeal and functionality of a traditional, mechanical hand brake. The Performance Electronic Parking Brake comes standard with the Performance Pack on all Mustang models. It is engineered for novice drivers to learn and improve their drift skills while providing expert drivers with a competition-ready system. More Available Advanced Driver Assistance Technologies The new Mustang comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360™ features, including Speed Sign Recognition, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering Assist, Evasive Steer Assist, and Reverse Brake Assist. Another critical feature is Active Pothole Mitigation, included with the Performance Package, which continually monitors suspension, body, steering, and braking input and adjusts suspension response accordingly. Owners can stay connected with their car via the FordPass™ app in other ways, utilizing free remote features such as remote vehicle start and stop, door locking and unlocking, scheduling a start time, locating the vehicle, and vehicle health and status checks. The FordPass app provides important vehicle information available to users, including fuel and oil levels, service history, and warranty information. The all-new Mustang will be sold in the U.S. starting in the summer of 2023 and is assembled at the Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Flat Rock, Mich. Source: Ford Press Release Images: Ford