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Cool Cars (DK Publishing) (2014) PDF

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The key takeaways are that the book focuses on cool cars from the past and provides details about their specifications and history. It also acknowledges the photographers, agencies, and people involved in publishing the book.

The book focuses on cool cars from the past and provides details about their specifications and history on various pages of the book.

The book features vehicles like the AC Ace-Bristol, AC Cobra 427, Alfa Romeo 1300 Junior Spider, and Austin Mini Cooper among many others spanning from pages 12-482.

Quentin Willson

COOL
CARS
Previously published as Great Car
COOL
CARS
Quentin Willson
COOL
CARS
Quentin Willson

A DORLING KINDERSLEY BOOK


London, New York, Munich, Melbourne, Delhi
C ONTENTS
This Edition INTRODUCTION
EDITOR: Alexandra Beeden DK INDIA
PROJECT ART EDITOR: Laura Roberts SENIOR ART EDITORS:Anjana Nair,
8 11
SENIOR ART EDITOR: Helen Spencer
US EDITOR: Allison Singer
MANAGING ART EDITOR: Karen Self
Ranjita Bhattacharji
ART EDITOR:Devan Das AC Ace-Bristol
ASSISTANT ART EDITORS:Ankita Mukherjee,
MANAGING EDITOR: Esther Ripley Niyati Gosain, Payal Rosalind Malik 1215
PUBLISHER: Sarah Larter MANAGING ART EDITOR: Arunesh Talapatra
ART DIRECTOR: Phil Ormerod
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHING DIRECTOR:
SENIOR EDITOR: Sreshtha Bhattacharya
EDITOR: Vibha Malhotra
AC Cobra 427
Liz Wheeler MANAGING EDITOR: Pakshalika Jayaprakash 1619
PUBLISHING DIRECTOR: Jonathan Metcalf DTP DESIGNERS: Vishal Bhatia,
PRE-PRODUCTION PRODUCER:
Rebecca Fallowfield
Sachin Gupta, Neeraj Bhatia
PRE-PRODUCTION MANAGER:
AC 428
SENIOR PRODUCER: Gemma Sharpe Balwant Singh 2023
JACKET DESIGNER: Natalie Godwin PRODUCTION MANAGER: Pankaj Sharma
JACKET EDITOR: Manisha Majitha
JACKET DESIGN DEVELOPMENT MANAGER:
ALFA ROMEO
Sophia Tampakopoulos 1300 Junior Spider
Previous Edition 2427
Produced for Dorling Kindersley by
PHIL HUNT (Editorial), MARK JOHNSON DAVIES (Design) AMC Pacer
SENIOR EDITOR: Edward Bunting
SENIOR ART EDITOR: Kevin Ryan 2831
MANAGING EDITOR: Sharon Lucas
SENIOR MANAGING ART EDITOR: Derek Coombes
DTP DESIGNER: Sonia Charbonnier
ASTON MARTIN DB4
PRODUCTION CONTROLLER: Bethan Blase 3235
US EDITOR: Gary Werner
Revised American Edition, 2014
Published in the United States by DK Publishing
ASTON MARTIN V8
375 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10014 3639
AUDI Quattro Sport
14 15 16 17 18 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
001 - 196667 - Apr/14
Copyright 2001, 2014 Dorling Kindersley Limited
Text copyright 2001, 2014 Quentin Willson 4043
Previously published as G REAT C AR
The right of Quentin Willson to be identified as Writer of this Work has been asserted by him
AUSTIN Mini Cooper
in accordance with the Copyright, Designs, and Patents Act 1988. 4447
AUSTIN HEALEY
All rights reserved under International and Pan-American Copyright Conventions.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without
the prior written permission of the copyright owner. Sprite Mk1
Published in Great Britain by Dorling Kindersley Limited. 4851
AUSTIN HEALEY 3000
DK books are available at special discounts when purchased in bulk for sales promotions,
premiums, fundraising, or educational use. For details, contact:
DK Publishing Special Markets
345 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10014 5255
SpecialSales@dk.com
A catalog record for this book is available from the Library of Congress. BENTLEY
ISBN 978-1-4654-1596-7
Color reproduced by Colourscan, Singapore. Printed and bound in China by South China.
R -Type Continental
Discover more at
5659
www.dk.com
Note on Specification Boxes: Unless otherwise indicated, all figures pertain to the particular
BENTLEY Flying Spur
model in the specification box. A.F.C. is an abbreviation for average fuel consumption. 6061
BENTLEY CADILLAC Convertible CHEVROLET
Continental Supersports 106109 Corvette Stingray (1969)
6263 CADILLAC Eldorado (1976) 142145
BMW 507 110113 CHEVROLET Monte Carlo
6467 CHEVROLET Corvette (1954) 146147
BMW 3.0CSL 114117 CHEVROLET Nova SS
6871 CHEVROLET Bel Air (1957) 148149
BMW M1 118121 CHEVROLET Camaro SS396
7275
CHEVROLET 150153
BUGATTI Bel Air Nomad (1957) CHRYSLER Imperial
Veyron Grand Sport 122123 154157
7677
CHEVROLET 3100 Stepside CHRYSLER New Yorker
BUICK Roadmaster (1949) 124125 158161
7881
BUICK Roadmaster (1957) CHEVROLET Impala CHRYSLER 300F (1960)
126129 162165
8285
BUICK Limited Riviera (1958) CHEVROLET CHRYSLER 300L (1965)
8689 Corvette Sting Ray (1966) 166169

BUICK Riviera (1964)


130133 CITRON Traction Avant
9093 CHEVROLET 170173
BUICK Riviera (1971) Corvair Monza CITRON 2CV
9497 134137 174177
CADILLAC Series 62 CHEVROLET CITRON
98101 Camaro RS Convertible DS 21 Decapotable
138141 178181
CADILLAC
Eldorado Convertible (1953) CITRON SM
102105 182185
CONTINENTAL Mark II FERRARI 308 GTB HUDSON Super Six
186189 242 292293
DAIMLER SP250 Dart FERRARI 400 GT HUDSON Hornet
190193 243 294295
DATSUN Fairlady 1600 FERRARI Testarossa JAGUAR XK120
194195 244247 296299
DATSUN 240Z FERRARI 456 GT JAGUAR CType
196199 248249 300303
DELOREAN DMC 12 FERRARI Enzo JAGUAR XK150
200203 250251 304305
DESOTO Custom FERRARI 458 Italia JAGUAR EType
204207 252253 306309
DE TOMASO Pantera GT5 FIAT 500D JENSEN Interceptor
208211 254257 310311
DODGE Charger R/T FORD GT40 KAISER Darrin
212215 258261 312315
EDSEL Bermuda FORD Thunderbird (1955) KAISER Henry J. Corsair
216219 262265 316317
EDSEL Corsair FORD Fairlane 500 Skyliner LAMBORGHINI Miura
220223 266269 318321
FACEL Vega II FORD Galaxie 500XL Sunliner LAMBORGHINI
224227 270273 Countach 5000S
FERRARI 250 GT SWB FORD Thunderbird (1962) 322325
228231 274277 LANCIA Aurelia B24 Spider
FERRARI 275 GTB/4 FORD Mustang (1965) 326329
232 278281 LANCIA Stratos
FERRARI Daytona FORD 330333
233 Shelby Mustang GT500 (1967) LEXUS LFA
FERRARI Dino 246 GT 282285 334335
234237 GORDON Keeble GT LINCOLN Continental (1964)
FERRARI 286287 336339
365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer HOLDEN FX LOTUS Elite
238241 288291 340343
LOTUS Elan Sprint PACKARD Hawk SUNBEAM Tiger
344345 392393 438439
MASERATI Ghibli PANHARD PL17 Tigre TESLA Roadster
346349 394395 440441
MASERATI Kyalami PEUGEOT 203 TOYOTA 2000GT
350351 396399 442443
MAZDA RX7 PLYMOUTH Barracuda (1964) TRIUMPH TR2
352355 400403 444447
MERCEDES BENZ PLYMOUTH Cuda (1970) TRIUMPH TR6
300SL Gullwing 404407 448451
356359 PONTIAC GTO TUCKER Torpedo
MERCEDES BENZ 280SL 408411 452455
360363 PONTIAC Trans Am VOLKSWAGEN
MERCEDES BENZ 412415
Beetle Karmann
456459
SLS AMG PORSCHE 356B
364365 VOLKSWAGEN Golf GTi
416419
460461
MG TC Midget PORSCHE Carrera 911 RS
366369 VOLVO P1800
420421 462463
MGA RANGE ROVER
370371 WILLYS Jeep MB
422423 464467
MGB RENAULT
372373 INDEX
Alpine A110 Berlinette 468478
MORGAN Plus Four 424427
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
374377 ROLLSROYCE 479480
MORRIS Silver Cloud III
Minor MM Convertible 428431
378381 ROLLSROYCE
NSU Ro80 Phantom Drophead
382383 432433
OLDSMOBILE Toronado SAAB 99 Turbo
384387 434435
OLDSMOBILE 4-4-2 STUDEBAKER Avanti
388391 436437
8 Introduction

I NTRODUCTION
S ome cars are cool and some have all the sexiness and desirability
of an old shoe. Automotive history is littered with dismal failures
that were ugly, slow, badly made, drove like donkey carts, or were
just plain awful. Some of us are old enough to remember Morris
Marinas, Austin Allegros, Ford Pintos, Trabants, Triumph TR7s, Toyota
Cedrics, Volkswagen K70s, and Yugos. That such mediocre vehicles
actually made it into production will always be a mystery, but the
public wasnt fooled and proved it by buying these clunkers in tiny
numbers. Cars like these will always stand as monuments to how
the automotive industry occasionally gets things dramatically wrong.
But mercifully, sometimes, they get it right and produce cars that
become hugely desirable icons of cool. And thats what this little
book is all about.

Between these pages youll find a colorful selection of some of


the worlds greatest cars. Some are breathlessly fast, some are
pinnacles of clever design, and some set new
technological standards. But all possess that magical
allure that makes us want to own and drive them.
As I write, the worlds appetite for cool cars has
never been greater. The market for curvy classics
is red-hot, and hardly a month goes past without
another auction price record being broken for an
elderly Ferrari or an Aston Martin. Old cars that
a couple of decades ago were changing hands
for tiny amounts of money have now increased
in value as much as a thousand times and
become a better investment than goldliterally.
Introduction 9

When I first wrote this book I said that many classics were so cheap it
seemed criminal. I was amazed that the selling prices of E-Type Jaguars
(see pages 30609) and Aston Martin DB4 (see pages 3235) were so
ridiculously low. Well, time has proved me right and a lot of the classics
I recommended as bargain buys in the first edition of this book have
since mushroomed in price to insanely stratospheric levels. I hate to say
I told you so, but if youd done as I suggested and bought an Aston
Martin DB4 and Ferrari Daytona (see page 233) for around $100,000 in
2001, the pair would now be worth more than a million and a half today.
In a little over a decade the desire to own distinctive and rare classics has
become an unstoppable market force worth many billions.

But our obsession with cool cars doesnt stop at the old stuff. The market
for high-tab, glamorous new cars is red-hot, too. And the market is
cooking all over the world. Modern Bentleys, Rolls Royces, Ferraris,
Aston Martins, Maseratis, and McLarens have almost become
celebrities in their own right. There are waiting lists for Jaguars and
Range Rovers, over-list premiums being paid for Ferraris, and
lines of desperate buyers chasing used luxury and sports cars.
And given that the world is suffering under the worst
recession since the Second World War, this simply
should not be happening. Our desire for distinctive
sexy wheels is probably the most powerful its ever
been in the history of the motor car, and many of
us are willing to spend all the money we havent
got just to get behind the wheel of a cool ride.

What is even more surprising is that a blizzard of


anti-car legislations, dire warnings about climate
change, growing congestion, and pressure from
environmentalists hasnt really changed our
10 Introduction

attitudes. Most people with a soul, when given the choice between a
Toyota Prius hybrid and a BMW 3 Series, will always go for the BMW.
The Prius may be an enormously smart car but it just cant tickle
our hearts with the same delicate fingers as the BMW. And thats
because a cool car defines who we are in the social pecking order.
No other symbol in society changes other peoples perceptions of us
like carstheyre mobile, theyre visible, and theyre a currency that
almost everybody understands. And if your ride is cool, onlookers
just sigh in admiration. Being bland and predictable wont get you
those coveted looks of warm approval. It doesnt matter if your cool
car is ancient or modern; youll be making that very important
statement that you chose to be different from everybody else.

So lets sit back and relish this new golden age of motoring where
there are so many wonderful cars to choose from. In all the years Ive
been writing and broadcasting about motoring, I cant remember a
time when the choice of desirable and genuinely charismatic cars was
so amazingly huge. The selection of cars in this book may be eclectic
but I guarantee that all of them, without exception, will turn heads
and disarm and charm in equal measure.
Introduction 11

And remember this: Our love of cool cars isnt going to go away
anytime soon so if youve got the cash, think about buying yourself a
cool classic. There are very few things that you can buy in life that can
offer the same level of enjoyment and fun as an old car that steadily
increases in value over the years. It may be too late to buy that cheap
Daytona or DB4 but there are plenty of other classics (and modern
neoclassics) that are still affordable, still sexy, and still special. Go on,
change your life and buy a cool car. I promise that you wont regret it
and youll be getting the keys to a new world of like-minded
enthusiasts, all of whom refuse to drive something dreary, plain, or
beige. Enjoy the ride.
12 AC Ace-Bristol

AC Ace-Bristol
AGONIZINGLY PRETTY, THE AC ACE catapulted the homespun Thames Ditton
company into the automotive limelight, instantly earning it a reputation as
makers of svelte sports cars for the tweedy English middle classes. Timelessly
elegant, swift, poised, and mechanically uncomplicated, the Ace went on to
form the platform for the legendary AC Cobra (see pages 1619). Clothed in a
light alloy body and powered by a choice of ACs own delicate UMB 2.0 unit,
the hardier 2.0 Bristol 100D2 engine, or the lusty 2.6 Ford Zephyr power
plant, the Ace drove as well as it looked. Its shape has guaranteed the Ace
a place in automotive annals. Chaste, uncluttered, and simple, it makes a
Ferrari look top-heavy and clumsy. Purists argue that the Bristol-powered
version is the real thoroughbred Ace, closest to its original inspiration,
the Bristol-powered Tojeiro prototype of 1953.

SIDE VIEW SIDESCREEN


The most handsome British roadster of its day, Folding Plexiglas sidescreens
and as lovely as an Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint, helped to prevent turbulence
the Ace had an Italianate simplicity. Proof of the in the cockpit at high speed.
dictum that less is more, the Aces gently
sweeping profile is a triumph of
form over function.
AC Ace-Bristol 13

IMPRESSIVE SPEC
The Ace had triple SPECIFICATIONS
Solex carbs, push-rod
MODEL AC Ace-Bristol (195661)
overhead valve gear, a
PRODUCTION 463
light alloy head, and
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater
a cast-iron crankcase. sports roadster.
CONSTRUCTION Space-frame chassis,
BRASS PLATE light alloy body.
The firing order ENGINE Six-cylinder push-rod 1971cc.
of the Aces six POWER OUTPUT 105 bhp at 5000 rpm
cylinders was (optional high-performance tune 125 bhp
at 5750 rpm).
displayed on an
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual Bristol
engine plate. gearbox (optional overdrive).
SUSPENSION Independent front and
rear with transverse leaf spring and
lower wishbones.
BRAKES Front and rear drums. Front discs
ENGINE from 1957.
Shared by the BMW 328, MAXIMUM SPEED 117 mph (188 km/h)
the hemi-head 125 bhp 2-liter 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 9.1 sec
HOOD LATCHES Bristol engine was offered as 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 27.2 sec
Forward-hinged hood was locked a performance conversion A.F.C. 21.6 mpg (7.6 km/l)
by two chrome latches, opened for the Ace.
by a small T-shaped key.

BRAKES
Front discs were an option in
1957, but later standardized.
14 AC Ace-Bristol

PROPORTIONS
The Ace was simplicity itself
a box for the engine, a
box for the people, and a
box for the luggage. On the
handling side, production
cars used Bishop cam-and-
gear steering, which gave a
turning circle of 36 ft (11 m)
and required just two deft
turns of the steering wheel
lock-to-lock.

SHARED WHEEL
Steering wheel was shared
with the Austin Healey
(see pages 4855) and
the Daimler SP Dart
(see pages 19093).

CONSTRUCTION
Known as Superleggera construction,
a network of steel tubes was covered
by aluminum panels, based on the
outline of the 1949 Ferrari 122.

EXPORT SUCCESS
The Ace became one of ACs most
successful creations, with a huge
proportion exported to America,
where its character as an
Englishmans girl-catcher justified
its price tag of a small house.

COOLING
The Aces wide, toothy grin
fed air into the large
radiator that was shared
bythe AC two-liter sedan.
AC Ace-Bristol 15

INTERIOR
In pure British tradition, the Aces
cockpit was stark, with gauges and
switches haphazardly scattered across
the dashboard. The two larger dials
were a speedometerwith a clock
inset into the dialand a tachometer.

TONNEAU FASTENERS
For diehards who always drove with
the top down, a tonneau cover could
be attached which kept your feet
warm while your face froze.

REAR-ENGINED GUSTO
Engines were placed well back
and gave an 18 percent rearward
bias to the weight distribution.
Performance-wise, it helped
an Ace recorded an average of
97 mph (156 km/h) over 2,350
miles (3,781 km) at the 1957 Le
Mans 24 Hours, the fastest ever
for a Bristol-engined car.

REVISED LIGHTS
Later Aces had a revised
rear deck, with square
taillights and a bigger trunk.
16 AC Cobra 427

AC Cobra 427
AN UNLIKELY ALLIANCE BETWEEN AC CARS, a traditional British car-maker, and
Carroll Shelby, a charismatic Texas racer, produced the legendary AC Cobra. ACs
sports car, the Ace (see pages 1215) was turned into the Cobra by shoehorning in
a series of American Ford V8s, starting with 4.2 and 4.7 Mustang engines. In 1965
Shelby, always a man to take things to the limit, squeezed in a thunderous 7-liter
Ford engine, in an attempt to realize his dream of winning Le Mans. Although
the 427 was not fast enough to win and failed to sell in any quantity, it was soon
known as one of the most aggressive and romantic cars ever built. GTM 777F
at one time held the record as the worlds fastest accelerating production car and
in 1967 was driven by the British journalist John Bolster to record such Olympian
figures as an all-out maximum of 165mph (265 km/h) and a 060 (96 km/h)
time of an unbelievable 4.2 seconds.

WHEELS
MUSCLY PROFILE Initially pin-drive Halibrand magnesium
The 427 looked fast standing still. Gone was alloy, but changed for Starburst wheels
the lithe beauty of the original Ace, replaced (designed by Shelby employee Pete Brock)
by bulbous front and rear arches, fat 7-in when supplies dried up.
(19-cm) wheels, and rubber
wide enough to
climb walls.
AC Cobra 427 17

BODYWORK
The Cobras body was constructed
from hand-rolled aluminum
wrapped around a tubular steel
frame, which proved very
light yet extremely strong.

BUMPERS
Bumpers were token
chromed tubes, with
the emphasis on
saving weight.

EXHAUST
Racing Cobras usually
had side exhausts,
which increased
power and noise.

SIDESCREENS COOLING
Small Plexiglas sidescreens Side vents helped EXTRA HORSEPOWER
helped cut down wind noise. reduce brake and Competition and semi-
engine temperatures. competition versions with
fine-tuned engines could
exceed 500 bhp.
18 AC Cobra 427

ENGINE
The mighty 7-liter 427 block had years of
NASCAR (National Association of Stock Car
Automobile Racing) racing success and easily
punched out power for hours. The street
version output ranged from 300 to 425 bhp.

FRAME
The windshield frame was
handmade and polished.

RADIATOR TANK
Radiator header tank
kept things cool, helped
by twin electric fans.

AIR FILTER
Under the massive air
filter are two large four-
barrel carburetors.

TIRES
Cobra tires were always
Goodyear since Shelby
was a long-time dealer.

UPGRADED CHASSIS
The chassis was virtually
all new and three times
stronger than the earlier
Cobra 289s, with computer-
designed anti-dive and
anti-squat characteristics.
Amazingly, the 289s
original Salisbury differential
proved more than capable
of handling the 427s
massive wall of torque.
AC Cobra 427 19

POCKET DYNAMO
Even the baby 4.7 SPECIFICATIONS
Cobrasas seen in this
contemporary poster MODEL AC Cobra 427 (196568)
PRODUCTION 316
were good for 138 mph
BODY STYLE Light alloy, two-door, two-
(222 km/h) and could seater, open sports.
squeal up to 60 mph CONSTRUCTION Separate tubular steel
(96 km/h) in under chassis with aluminum panels.
six seconds. ENGINE V8, 6989cc.
POWER OUTPUT 425 bhp at 6000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed all-
synchromesh.
SUSPENSION All-around independent with
ENGINE CHANGES coil springs.
Early Cobras had BRAKES Four-wheel disc.
260cid engines. Later MAXIMUM SPEED 165 mph (265 km/h)
cars were fitted with 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 4.2 sec
Mustang 289 V8s. 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 10.3 sec
A.F.C. 15 mpg (5.3 km/l)

INTERIOR
The interior was basic, with traditional
1960s British sports car features of
black-on-white gauges, small bucket
seats, and wood rim steering wheel.
20 AC 428

AC 428
THE AC 428 NEEDS A NEW word of its very ownbrutiful perhaps, for while its
brute strength derives from its Cobra forebear, the 428 has a sculpted, stately beauty.
This refined bruiser was born of a thoroughbred crossbreed of British engineering,
American power, and Italian design. The convertible 428 was first seen at the
London MotorShow in October 1965; the first fixed-head carthe so-called
fastbackwas ready in time for the Geneva Motor Show in March 1966. But
production was beset by problems from the start; the first cars were not offered
for sale until 1967, and as late as March 1969, only 50 had been built. Part of the
problem was that the 428 was priced between the more expensive Italian Ferraris
and Maseratis and the cheaper British Astons and Jensens. Small-scale production
continued into the 1970s, but its days were numbered and it was finally done for
by the fuel crisis of October 1973; the last 428the 80thwas sold in 1974.

ITALIAN STYLING
Styled by Pietro Frua in Turin, the AC THIN SKINNED
428 was available in both convertible Early cars had aluminum
and fixed-head fastback form. It was doors and hood; later
based on an AC Cobra 427 chassis, models were all steel.
virtually standard apart from a 6-in
(15-cm) increase in wheelbase.
AC 428 21

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL AC 428 (196673)


PRODUCTION 80 (51 convertibles,
29 fastbacks)
BODY STYLES Two-seat convertible
or two-seat fastback coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Tubular-steel backbone
chassis/separate all-steel body.
ENGINES Ford V8, 6997cc or 7016cc.
POWER OUTPUT 345 bhp at 4600 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Ford four-speed manual
or three-speed auto; Salisbury rear axle
with limited-slip differential.
SUSPENSION Double wishbones and
combined coil spring/telescopic damper
units front and rear.
BRAKES Servo-assisted Girling discs front
and rear.
CONTEMPORARY LOOKS MAXIMUM SPEED 139.3 mph
The design contains subtle reminders of a number (224 km/h) (auto)
of contemporary cars, not least the Maserati Mistral. 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.9 sec (auto)
This is hardly surprising, since the Mistral was 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 14.5 sec
also penned by Pietro Frua. A.F.C. 1215 mpg (4.25.3 km/l)

AIR VENTS
In an effort to combat engine ALL LACED UP
overheating, later cars have Standard wheels were substantial triple-laced,
air vents behind the wheels. wired-up affairs, secured by a three-eared nut.
22 AC 428

WEATHER BEATER
The top was tucked under a cover which, in
early models, was made of metal. When up,
the hood made the cockpit feel somewhat
claustrophobic, but the plastic rear window
was generously proportioned.

DASHBOARD
Switchgear may be scattered around like
confetti, but the instruments are grouped
clearly in front of the driver. The speedo
(far left) reads to an optimistic 180 mph
(290 km/h), while the tachometer (far right)
reaches 8,000 rpm.

REAR VIEW
The 428 may have been a refined
muscle car, but it was not totally
unique; it featured parts from
other manufacturers, such as
rearlights from Fiat.
AC 428 23

DESIGN CREDIT POWER UNIT


Frua is credited with Pre-1967, the car used the same
a Creazione Frua 427 cubic inch (6998cc) V8 as the
badge on each side. Cobra (see pages 1619), so was
originally known as the AC 427.
24 Alfa Romeo 1300 Junior Spider

A LFA R OMEO 1300 Junior Spider


DRIVEN BY DUSTIN HOFFMAN TO THE strains of Simon and Garfunkel in the film
The Graduate, the Alfa Spider has become one of the most accessible cult Italian
cars. This is hardly surprising when you consider the little Alfas considerable
virtues: a wonderfully responsive all-alloy, twin-cam engine, accurate steering,
sensitive brakes, a finely balanced chassis, plus movie idol looks. It hasnt been
called the poor mans Ferrari for nothing. First launched at the Geneva Motor
Show in 1966, Alfa held a worldwide competition to find a name for its new baby.
After considering 140,000 entries, with suggestions like Lollobrigida, Bardot,
Nuvolari, and even Stalin, they settled on Duetto, which neatly summed up the
cars twos-company-threes-a-crowd image. Despite the same price tag as the
much faster and more glamorous Jaguar E-Type (see pages 30609), the Spider
sold over 100,000 units during its remarkable 26-year production run.
TOP LOGO
CONTEMPORARY CONTROVERSY The Spiders top was beautifully Pininfarinas
One of Pininfarinas last designs, the effective. It could be raised credit indicated
Spiders rounded front and rear and with only one arm without by his logo.
deep-channeled scallop running along leaving thedrivers seat.
the sides attracted plenty of criticism.
One British car magazine dubbed it
compact and rather ugly.

TRUNK
Spiders had huge trunks by
sports car standards, with
the spare wheel tucked neatly
away under the trunk floor.
Alfa Romeo 1300 Junior Spider 25

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Alfa Romeo 1300 Junior Spider


(196878)
PRODUCTION 7,237
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater.
CONSTRUCTION All-steel monocoque
body.
ENGINE All-alloy twin-cam 1290cc.
POWER OUTPUT 89 bhp at 6000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed.
SUSPENSION Front: independent; Rear: live
INTERIOR axle with coil springs.
The dashboard was painted metal up to 1970. Minor BRAKES Four-wheel disc.
controls were on fingertip levers, while the MAXIMUM SPEED 106 mph (170 km/h)
windshieldwipers had an ingenious foot 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 11.2 sec
button positioned on the floor. 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 21.3 sec
A.F.C. 29 mpg (10.3 km/l)

RACING ALFA
The later Alfa Romeo
Montreal had a race-bred 2.5
V8 that gave a top speed of HEADLIGHTS
140 mph (225 km/h). Plexiglas headlight covers were
banned in the US and were never
used on the 1300 Juniors.

WHEEL ARCHES
The lack of rustproofing
meant that the arches
were prone to decay.
26 Alfa Romeo 1300 Junior Spider

DRIVING POSITION
All Spider cockpits had
the Italian apelike
drivingpositionlong
arms and short legs.

QUALITY TAIL
The boat-tail rear was shared by all Spiders up to
1970 and is the styling favored by Alfa purists. It BODYWORK
was replaced by a squared-off Kamm tail. The Spiders bodywork
corroded alarmingly
quickly due to the poor-
STYLISH AND COOL quality steel.
The Spider has to be one of Alfas great
postwar cars, not least because of its
contemporary design. It was penned
by Battista Pininfarina, the founder
of the renowned Turin-based
design house.
Alfa Romeo 1300 Junior Spider 27

NOSE SECTION
Disappearing nose
was very vulnerable
to parking dents.

ALFAS BAMBINO STYLISH GRILLE


The 1300 Junior was the baby of This hides a twin-cam,
the Spider family, introduced in energy-efficient engine with
1968 to take advantage of Italian hemispherical combustion
tax laws. As well as the Duetto, chambers. Some of the
which refers to 1600 Spiders, mid-70s Spiders imported to
therewas also a 1750cc model in the US, however, were overly
the line. Large production restricted; the catalyzed 1750,
numbersand high maintenance for example, could only manage
costs mean that prices of Spiders a miserly top speed of just
are invitingly low. 99 mph (159 km/h).
28 AMC Pacer

AMC Pacer
THE 1973 FUEL CRISIS HIT Americas psyche harder than did the Russians beating
them to space in the Fifties. Cheap and unrestricted personal transportation had
been a way of life, and then America suddenly faced the horrifying prospect of
paying more than forty cents a gallon. Overnight, stock in car manufacturers
became as popular as Richard Nixon. Detroits first response was to kill
the muscle car. The second was to revive the compact and invent the
subcompact. AMC had first entered the subcompact market in 1970 with
its immensely popular Gremlin model, but the 1975 Pacer was a different beast.
Advertised as the first wide small car, it had the passenger compartment of
a sedan, the nose of a European commuter shuttle, and no back end at all.
Ironically, it wasnt even that economical, but America didnt notice because
it was on a guilt trip, buying over 70,000 of the things in 75 alone.

WINDSHIELD
The aerodynamic
STYLING TO TALK ABOUT windshield aided fuel
In the mid-Seventies, the Pacer economy and reduced
was sold as the last word; the face interior noise.
of the car of the 21st century
bragged the ads. Happily, they
were wrong. Pundits of the time
called it a football on wheels
anda big frog.
AMC Pacer 29

GLASS COVERAGE
The Pacer had the largest glass area
of any contemporary American
sedan, making the $425 all season
air-conditioning option almost
obligatory. There was no
doubt that outward
vision, though, was
quite superb.

INTERIOR
Inside was stock
Detroit, with sporty
front bucket seats
and a cheesy
polyurethane dash.
EXTRA GRIP
Twin-Grip differential
was a $46 option.
MAX HEADROOM
There was more
headroom and legroom
than the contemporary
Chevelle or Torino,
making it feel spacious.
30 AMC Pacer

EXTRA WIDTH
The body was almost as wide as it was
long, and though opinion was divided
on the Pacers looks, it did garner some
hefty praise; Motor Trend magazine
calledthe styling the most innovative
of all US small cars. Credit went to
Richard Teague, who also penned
the 84 Jeep Cherokee.

TRUNK SPACE
With rear seat folded,
cargo area was an
impressive 30 cubic feet.

FRONT RECLINERS
Adaptability even stretched
to the front of the car; 26
percent of all Pacers had
reclining front seats.

LATER LENGTH
In 1977 Pacers were stretched
a further 4 in (10 cm) and
offered as station wagons.

COSTLY EXTRAS
Surprisingly, the Pacer was
never a cheap car. Add a
few interior options and air-
conditioning and you could
easily have been presenting the
dealer with a check for $5,000.
De Luxe trim pack included
wood effect side and rear
panels, which made the Pacer
about as tasteful as Liberace.

STEERING
The Pacers rack-and-
pinion steering was one
of the first on a US car.
AMC Pacer 31

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL AMC Pacer


PRODUCTION 72,158 (1975)
BODY STYLE Three-door sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Steel unitary body.
ENGINES 232cid, 258cid sixes.
POWER OUTPUT 9095 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual with
optional overdrive, optional three-speed
Torque-Command automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
Rear: semi-elliptic leaf springs.
BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 105 mph (169 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 14 sec
A.F.C. 6.48.5 km/l (1824 mpg)

REAR INSPIRATION
Unbelievably, the Pacers
rear end inspired the comely
rump of the Porsche 928.

PACER POWER
Stock power was a none-too-
thrifty 258cid straight six unit. In
addition, for all its eco pretensions,
you could still specify a 304cid V8.

BUMPERS
Originally slated to use
urethane bumpers, production
Pacers were equipped with
steel versions to save money.
32 Aston Martin DB4

A S TON M ARTIN DB4


THE DEBUT OF THE DB4 IN 1958 heralded the beginning of the Aston Martin
glory years, ushering in the breed of classic six-cylinder DB Astons that propelled
Aston Martin onto the world stage. Earlier postwar Astons were fine sports
enthusiasts road cars, but with the DB4 Astons acquired a new grace,
sophistication, and refinement that was, for many, the ultimate
flowering of the grand tourer theme. The DB4 looked superb
and went like the wind. The DB5, which followed, will
forever be remembered as the James Bond Aston; and the
final expression of the theme came with the bigger DB6.
The cars were glorious, but the company was in trouble.
David Brown, the millionaire industrialist owner of
Aston Martin and the DB of the model name,
had a dream. But, in the early Seventies, with
losses of $1.5 million a year, he bailed
out of the company, leaving a
legacy of machines that are still
talked about with reverence as
the David Brown Astons.

DASHBOARD
The dash is a gloriously unergonomic
triumph of form over function; gauges
are scattered all over an instrument
panel deliberately similar to the cars
grinning radiator grille.
Aston Martin DB4 33

SPECIFICATIONS
IN THE MIRROR
Dipping rearview mirror BRITISH LIGHTWEIGHT MODEL Aston Martin DB4 (195863)
was also found in many Superleggera, Italian for super- PRODUCTION 1,040 (fixed head); 70
Jaguars of the period. lightweight, refers to the technique of (convertible); 95 (fixed-head DB4 GTs).
body construction: aluminum panels BODY STYLES Fixed-head coupe
or convertible.
rolled over a framework of steel tubes.
CONSTRUCTION Pressed-steel and tubular
inner chassis frame, with aluminum-alloy
outer panels.
ENGINES Inline six 3670cc/3749cc.
UNHINGED POWER OUTPUT 240 bhp at 5500 rpm.
First generation TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual (with
optional overdrive).
DB4s had a rear-
SUSPENSION Front: independent by
hinged hood. wishbones, coil springs, and telescopic shock
absorbers; Rear: live axle located by trailing
arms and Watt linkage with coil springs and
lever-arm dampers.
BRAKES Four-wheel disc.
MAXIMUM SPEED 140+ mph (225+ km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 20.1 sec
A.F.C. 1422 mpg (3.67.8 km/l)

ASTON SMILE
The vertical bars in this
cars radiator grille show
it to be a so-called Series
4 DB4, built between
September 1961 and
October 1962.

NO PRETENSIONS
There is no doubt that the
DB4 has got serious
attitude. Its lines may be
Italian, but it has none of
the dainty delicacy of some
contemporary Ferraris and
Maseratisthe Astons
spirit is somehow true Brit.
34 Aston Martin DB4

TRUNK PANEL LIGHTS BOND MATERIAL


Complex curves meant the trunk Rear lights and front The DB4s stance is solid and butch, but
lid was one of the most difficult- indicators were straight not brutishmore British Boxer than
to-produce panels in the entire off the utilitarian lumbering Bulldog, aggressive yet
car. Their hand-built nature Land Rover. refined. It is an ideal blueprint for
meansno two Astons are alike. aJames Bond car.

CLASSIC STYLING
Clothed in an Italian body by Carrozzeria
Touring of Milan, the DB4 possessed a
graceful yet powerful elegance. Under the
aluminum shell was Tadek Mareks
twin-cam straight-six engine,
which evolved from Astons
racing program.

BUMPERS
Bumper overriders were
from the British Mk2
Ford Zephyr and Zodiac.
Aston Martin DB4 35

ENGINE
It looks very much like the
UPHOLSTERY contemporary Jaguar XK
While rear seats in the twin-cam straight-six, but
fixed-head offer limited Tadek Mareks design is both
space, just look at the more powerful and vastly
richness and quality of the more complicated. Triple SU
Connolly leather. The ride carburetors show this to be a
wasnt quite as impressive, Vantage engine with larger
thoughrear suspension valves and an extra 20 bhp.
was through basic
lever-arm units. SUSPENSION
Front suspension was double
wishbones with coil springs
and telescopic shocks.
36 Aston Martin V8

A S TON M ARTIN V8
A NEAR TWO-TON GOLIATH powered by an outrageous handmade 5.3-liter engine,
the DBS V8 was meant to be Astons money-earner for the 1970s. Based on the
six-cylinder DBS of 1967, the V8 did not appear until April 1970. With a thundering
160 mph (257 km/h) top speed and incredible sub seven-second 060 time, Astons
new bulldog instantly earned a place on every millionaires shopping list. The trouble
was that it drove into a worldwide recessionin 1975 the Newport Pagnell factory
produced just 19 cars. Astons bank managers were worried men, but the company
pulled through. The DBS became the Aston Martin V8 in 1972 and continued
until 1989, giving birth to the legendary 400 bhp Vantage and gorgeous Volante
Convertible. Excessive, expensive, impractical, and impossibly thirsty, the DBS
V8 and AM V8 are wonderful relics from a time when environmentalism was
just another word in the dictionary.
ASTON LINES
NEW CONSTRUCTION Smooth tapering cockpit
DBS was one of the first Astons with a line is an Aston hallmark
chassis and departed from the traditional echoed in the current DB7.
Superleggera tubular superstructure of
the DB4, 5, and 6. Like Ferraris and
Maseratis, Aston prices were ballyhooed
up to stratospheric levels
in the Eighties.
Aston Martin V8 37

REAR ASPECT REAR WINDOW


Prodigious rear overhang Thin rear window gave
makes the rear aspect the driver limited
look cluttered. rearward vision.

SPOILER TWIN PIPES


Discreet rear Handmade
spoiler was bumpers covered
part of the huge twin exhausts
gently sweeping OWNERS WITH PEDIGREE a gentle reminder
fender line. Cars with incredible presence, Astons were good of this Astons epic
enough for James Bond, King Hussein of Jordan, V8 grunt.
Peter Sellers, and even the Prince of Waleswho
has owned a DB6 Volante from new.

POWER BULGE
Massive hood power bulge
was to clear four carburetors.
38 Aston Martin V8

ENGINE
The alloy V8 was first seen in Lola
sports-racing cars. The massive EIGHTIES PRICE
air-filter box covers a quartet of In the Eighties, top
twin-choke Weber carbs, which quality DBSs changed
guzzle one gallon of fuel for every hands for $75,000 plus.
13 miles (4.6 km/l), and much less
if you enjoy yourself.

POWER UNIT
V8s engine churned out over
300 bhp, but later models
could boast 400 bhp.

FRONT END
Shapely cliff-hanger
nose was always a
DBS trademark.

BOND CAR
A 1984 AM V8 Volante
featured in the James Bond
film The Living Daylights,
with Timothy Dalton.
In 1964 a DB5 was the
first Aston to star
alongside James Bond
in the film Goldfinger, this
time with Sean Connery.

SPOILER
Chin spoiler and
undertray helped
reduce front-end lift at
higher speeds.
Aston Martin V8 39

CLASSY CABIN
Over the years the DBS was skillfully
updated, without losing its traditional
ambience. Features included leather and
wood surroundings, air-conditioning,
electric windows, and radio cassette.
Nearly all V8s were ordered with
Chrysler TorqueFlite auto transmission.

BODYWORK SUMPTUOUS FIXTURES


V8s aluminum body As with most Astons, the
was hand smoothed interior was decked out in the
and lovingly finished. finest quality leather and wood.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Aston Martin V8 (197289)


PRODUCTION 2,842 (including Volante
and Vantage)
BODY STYLE Four-seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Aluminum body, steel
platform chassis.
ENGINE Twin OHC alloy 5340cc V8.
POWER OUTPUT Never released but
approx 345 bhp (Vantage 400 bhp).
TRANSMISSION Three-speed auto or
five-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Independent front,
De Dion rear.
BRAKES Four-wheel disc.
MAXIMUM SPEED 161 mph (259 km/h);
173 mph (278 km/h) (Vantage)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.2 sec
(Vantage 5.4 sec)
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 14.2 sec
(Vantage 13 sec)
A.F.C. 13 mpg (4.6 km/l)
40 Audi Quattro Sport

A UDI Quattro Sport


One of the rarest and most iconic Audis ever built was the 155 mph (250 km/h)
Quattro Sport. With a short wheelbase, all-alloy 300 bhp engine, and a body made
of aluminum-reinforced fiberglass and Kevlar, it has all the charisma, and nearly
all the performance, of a Ferrari GTO. The Quattro changed the way we think
about four-wheel drive. Before 1980, four-wheel drive systems had foundered
through high cost, weight, and lousy road behavior. Everybody thought that
if you bolted a four-wheel drive system onto a performance coupe it would
have ugly handling, transmission whine, and an insatiable appetite for fuel.
Audis engineers proved that the accepted wisdom was wrong,
and by 1982, the Quattro was a World Rally Champion.
Gone but not forgotten, the Quattro Sport is now a
much admired collectors item.

FUNCTIONAL INTERIOR
While the dashboard layout is nothing special,
everything is typically Germanicclear, neat,
and easy to use. The only touch of luxury in
the Quattro is half-leather trim.
RALLY SUCCESS
In competition trim, Audis remarkable turbocharged
engine was pushing out 400 bhp, and by 1987, the
fearsome S1 Sport generated 509 bhp. To meet
Group B homologation requirements, only 220
Sports were built, and only a few destined for
saleto some very lucky private owners.
Audi Quattro Sport 41

HOOD
Long nose and
hood bulge cover the
intercooler for the
turbo unit.

ROOF
Roof sections were
made of aluminum-
bonded fiberglass.

HOT PROPERTY
HAND-CRAFTED BODY From any angle the Quattro Sport is
Bodyshells were welded by a testosterone on wheels, with a butch
team of just 22 craftsmen. and aggressive four-square stance. The
cinder-block styling, though, meant that
the Quattros aerodynamics were poor.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Audi Quattro Sport (198387)


PRODUCTION 220 (all LHD)
BODY STYLE Two-seater, two-door coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Monocoque body from
Kevlar, aluminum, fiberglass, and steel.
ENGINE 2133cc five-cylinder turbocharged.
POWER OUTPUT 304 bhp at 6500 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed manual, four-
wheel drive.
SUSPENSION All-around independent.
BRAKES Four-wheel vented discs with
switchable ABS.
MAXIMUM SPEED 155 mph (250 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 4.8 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 13.9 sec
A.F.C. 17 mpg (6 km/l)
42 Audi Quattro Sport

LIMITED EDITION
Of the 1,700 Audis
produced each day in the
mid-1980s, only three were
Quattros, and of a years
output only a tiny amount
were Sports.

REAR LIGHTS
Darkened rear lights
were included across
the whole Quattro
line in 1984.

FOUR-SEATER?
While it looked like a
four-seater, in practice
only two could fit in.

RIDE QUALITY
ARCHES Though the ride was harder
Box wheel arches are a than on normal Quattros,
Quattro hallmark, and essential steering was quicker.
to cover the fat 9Jx15 wheels.
Audi Quattro Sport 43

ENGINE
The five-cylinder 2133cc alloy engine is
50 lb (22.7 kg) lighter than the stock item,
with twin overhead cams, four valves per
cylinder, a giant turbocharger and Bosch
LH-Jetronic injection. Center Torsen
differential gives a 50/50 front-to-rear
split. Rear differential lock disengages
when the car passes 15 mph (24 km/h).

TURBOCHARGER
Turbo lag was a big problem on
early Quattros; from 2060 mph
(3296 km/h) in top it was slower
than a 900cc VW Polo.

TECHNICAL TRAILBLAZER
Four-wheel drive cars are now part of
most large carmakers model lines and,
along with airbags and antilock brakes
(ABS), have played their part toward
safer driving. We must thank the car
that started it all, the Audi Quattro.
44 Austin Mini Cooper

A U STIN Mini Cooper


THE MINI COOPER WAS ONE of Britains great motor sport legends, an inspired
confection that became the definitive rally car of the Sixties. Because of its size,
maneuverability, and front-wheel drive, the Cooper could dance around bigger,
more unwieldy cars and scuttle off to victory. The hot Mini was a perfect blend
of pin-sharp steering, terrific handling balance, and a feeling that you could get
away with almost anything. Originally the brainchild of race car builder John
Cooper, the Minis designer, Alec Issigonis, thought it should be a peoples car
rather than a performance machine and did not like the
SPOTLIGHT
idea of a souped-up Mini. Fortunately BMC (British Roof-mounted spotlight
Motor Corporation) did, and agreed to a trial run of could be rotated from
just 1,000 cars. One of their better decisions. inside the car.

TIRES
Radial tires were
on the Cooper S
but not the
standard Cooper.
Austin Mini Cooper 45

RALLY REAR
24 PK wears the classic Mini rally uniform of straight-
through exhaust, Minilite wheels, roll bar, twin fuel
tanks, and lightweight stick-on license plates. BMC
hada proactive Competitions Department.

COOPER S
The Cooper S, built between 196367,
came in a choice of 970 or 1071cc
engines and had wider wheels and
different badging from the stock Cooper.

WINDSHIELD
Windshield was glass,
but all other windows
were made out of
Plexiglas to save weight.

LICENSE PLATE
Competitions departments often
swapped license plates, bodyshells,
and chassis numbers, making it hard
to identify genuine ex-race Coopers.

SPEEDY CORNERING
With a low center of gravity and
a wheel at each extreme corner,
the Mini had the perfect
credentials for tramlike handling.

RACING PEDIGREE
In the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally, the
Cooper produced a giant-killing
performance, trouncing 4.7-liter
Fairlanes to win. It never looked
back, winning the 62 and 64 Tulip
Rallies, the 63 Alpine Rally, the 65
and 67 Monte Carlo, and more than
25 other prestigious races.
46 Austin Mini Cooper

RARE BLOCK
Though this is a 1071cc
example, the 970cc version
was the rarest of
all Coopers, with
only 964 made.

ENGINE
The 1071cc A-series engine would rev to
7,200 rpm, producing 72 bhp. Crankshaft, con-
rods, valves, and rockers were all toughened,
and the Cooper also had a bigger oil pump
and beefed-up gearbox. Lockheed disc brakes
and servo provided the stopping power.

GRILLE
Front grille was quick-release
to allow access for emergency
repairs to distributor, oil cooler,
starter motor, and alternator.

RACE EXPERIENCE
This example, 24 PK, was driven
by Sir Peter Moon and John
Davenport in the 1964 Isle of
Man Manx Trophy Rally. But, while
leading the pack on the penultimate
stage of the rally at Druidale,
24 PK was badly rolled and needed
a complete reshell. Many race
Coopers led a hard life, often
rebuilt and reshelled several times.
Austin Mini Cooper 47

PRICE TO PAY
The price difference SPECIFICATIONS
betweenthe Cooper and
MODEL Austin Mini Cooper (196369)
theS was 569 ($860)
PRODUCTION 145,000 (all models)
for the standard car and
BODY STYLE Sedan.
695 ($1,050) for the S.
CONSTRUCTION All steel two-door
monocoque mounted on front and rear
sub-frames.
LIGHTS ENGINES Four-cylinder 970cc/
For night rally 997cc/998cc/1071cc/1275cc.
stages, Coopers POWER OUTPUT 65 bhp at 6500 rpm
needed maximum to 76 bhp at 5800 rpm.
illumination. Straps TRANSMISSION Four-speed,
no synchromesh on first.
held on the
SUSPENSION Independent front and
headlight protectors. rear suspension with rubber cones and
wishbones (Hydrolastic from late 1964).
BRAKES Lockheed front discs with
rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 100 mph (161 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 12.9 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 20 sec
A.F.C. 30 mpg (10.6 km/l)

INTERIOR
The Cooper has typical rally-car
features: wood-rim Moto-Lita wheel,
fire extinguisher, Halda trip meter,
tachometer, stopwatches, and maplight.
The only features that would have been
standard equipment are the center
speedo, heater, and switches.
48 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk1

A USTIN -H EALEY Sprite Mk1


SOME AUTOMOTIVE ACADEMICS believe all the best car designs have a recognizable
face. If that is the case, few cars have a cuter one than this little fellow, with
that ear-to-ear grinning grille and those wide-open, slightly astonished eyes. Of
course, it is those trademark bulging peepers that prompted the nickname Frogeye,
by which everyone now recognizes this engaging little character. So much of the
Frogeyes character was borne of necessity. The Donald Healey Motor Company
and Austin had already teamed up with the Austin-Healey 100. In 1958, its little
brother, the Sprite, was born, a spartan sports car designed down to a price
and based on the engine and running gear of the Austin A35 sedan, with a
bit of Morris Minor too. Yet the Frogeye really was a sports car and had
a sweet raspberry exhaust note to prove it.

DECEPTIVE LOOKS REAR VIEW


At just under 11 ft 5 in (3.5 m), the Plexiglas rear
Frogeye is not quite as small as it looks. window offered only
Its pert looks were only part of the limited rear vision.
cars cult appeal; for with its firm, even
harsh, ride it had a traditional British
sports car feel. A nimble performer,
you could hustle it along a twisty road,
cornering flat and clicking
through the gears.
Austin-Healey Sprite Mk1 49

ENGINE
The Austin-Morris A-series engine
was a little gem. It first appeared in
the Austin A35 sedan and went on to
power several generations of Mini (see
pages 4447). In the Frogeye it was
modified internally with extra-strong
valve springs and equipped with twin
SU carburetors to give 50 bhp gross
(43 bhp net). By todays standards its
no road burner, but in the late Fifties
it was a peppy little performer.

ENGINE ACCEESS
Rear-hinged alligator hood
gives great engine access and
makes the Frogeye a delight
for tinkerers.

LOW DOWN
The Frogeyes low stance aided
flat cornering. Ground clearance
was better than it looked: just
under 5 in (12.7 cm).
BUMPERS
Bumpers with overriders
were a sensible and
popular extra.
50 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk1

THE FROGS EYES


Donald Healeys original design incorporated
retracting headlights like the later Lotus Elan
(see pages 34445), but extra cost ruled these out.
RACING LINKS As it was, the protruding headlight pods created
Sprites put up spirited performances at a car with a character all of its own. The
Le Mans and Sebring in Florida, making club complex one-piece hood in which the lamps
racing affordable to ordinary enthusiasts. are set is made up of four main panels.

DUAL LIGHTS
Sidelights doubled
as flashing
indicators.
Austin-Healey Sprite Mk1 51

LATER INCARNATION
The design has a classic simplicity, free of
needless chrome embellishment; there is
no external door handle to interrupt the
flowing flanks. In 1961 the Frogeye
was reclothed in a more
conventional skin, and these
follow-on Sprites, also
badged as MG Midgets,
lasted until 1979.

ROUND RUMP
It is not so much a
trunk, because it does
not open; more a luggage
locker with access behind
the rear seats.

GEAR STICK
Stubby gear stick was nicely
positioned for the driver.
SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Austin-Healey Sprite Mk1


(195861)
PRODUCTION 38,999
BODY STYLE Two-seater roadster.
CONSTRUCTION Unitary body/chassis.
ENGINE BMC A-Series 948cc, four-
cylinder, overhead valve.
POWER OUTPUT 43 bhp at 5200 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual,
synchromesh on top three ratios.
SUSPENSION Front: Independent, coil
springs and wishbones; Rear: Quarter-elliptic
leaf springs, rigid axle.
COZY COCKPIT BRAKES Hydraulic, drums all around.
The Frogeye fits like a glove. Side curtains MAXIMUM SPEED 84 mph (135 km/h)
rather than wind-down windows gave 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 20.5 sec
some extra elbow room and everything is A.F.C. 3545 mpg (12.516 km/l)
within reach for the sporty driverspeedo
on the right and tachometer on the left.
52 Austin-Healey 3000

A USTIN -H EALEY 3000


THE HEALEY HUNDRED WAS A sensation at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show in
London. Austins Leonard Lord had already contracted to supply the engines, but
when he noticed the sports cars impact, he decided he wanted to build it tooit
was transformed into the Austin-Healey 100. Donald Healey had spotted a gap in
the American sports car market between the Jaguar XK120 (see pages 29699) and the
cheap and cheerful MG T series (see pages 36669). His hunch was right, for about
80 percent of all production went Stateside. Over the years this rugged bruiser
became increasingly civilized. In 1956, it received a six-cylinder engine in place of the
four, but in 1959 the 3000 was born. It became increasingly refined, with front disc
brakes, then wind-up windows, and ever faster. Our featured car is the last of the line,
a 3000 Mk3. Although perhaps verging on grand-tourer territory, it was still one of
the fastest Big Healeys and has become a landmark British sports car.
WHEELS AND WHITEWALLS
WELL MATURED Wire wheels with knock-off hubs
The Austin-Healey put on weight over were options on some models,
the years, became gradually more refined, standard on others; whitewalls
and stayed true to its original sports usually signify an American car.
car spirit. It developed into a
surefooted thoroughbred.
Austin-Healey 3000 53

HOOD SCOOP
HOT PIT COMFORTS All six-cylinder Healeys, both the
Heat buildup from the Updated weather equipment was an 100/6 and the 3000, featured a
engine and underfloor improvement on earlier efforts, which hood scoop; the longer engine
exhaust made for a took two people 10 minutes to erect. pushed the radiator forward, with
warm ride. the scoop clearing the underhood
protrusion to aid airflow.
54 Austin-Healey 3000

WINDSHIELD
In 1962, the 3000 acquired
a wrap-around windshield
and wind-up windows, as the
once raw sports car adopted
trappings of sophistication.

ENGINE
Under the hood of the biggest of the so-called
Big Healeys is the 2912cc straight-six,
designated the 3000. This is the butchest of the
big bangers, pumping out a hefty 150 bhp.

STYLING INFLUENCES
The two major influences on the Healeys
changing faces were the needs of the
American market and the impositions of
Austin, both as parts supplier and as frugal
keeper of purse strings. But from the start,
the styling was always a major asset, and what
you see here in the 3000 Mk3 is the eventual
culmination of those combined styling forces.

REFINED REAR
The first prototype rear-end treatments
featured faddish fins that were replaced
by a classic round rump.
Austin-Healey 3000 55

INCREASED LUXURY
Once spartan, the cockpit of the Austin-Healey
became increasingly luxurious, with a polished
veneer dash, glove compartment, fine leather, and
rich carpet. One thing remained traditionalengine
heat meant the cockpit was always a hot place to be.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Austin-Healey 3000 (195968)


PRODUCTION 42,926 (all 3000 models)
BODY STYLES Two-seater roadster, 2+2
roadster, 2+2 convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Separate chassis/body.
ENGINE 2912cc overhead-valve, straight-six.
HEALEY GRIN POWER OUTPUT 3000 Mk1: 124 bhp at
From the traditional Healey diamond 4600 rpm. 3000 Mk2: 132 bhp at 4750 rpm.
grille, the mouth of the Austin-Healey 3000 Mk3: 150 bhp at 5250 rpm.
developed into a wide grin. TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual
with overdrive.
SUSPENSION Front: Independent coil
MORE POWER springs and wishbones, antiroll bar;
The Americans bought Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs. Lever-arm
more Healeys than shock absorbers all around.
anyone else and wanted BRAKES Front discs; rear drum.
more oomph. So in 1959 MAXIMUM SPEED 110120 mph
the 2639cc six-cylinder of (177193 km/h)
the Healey 100/6 was 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 9.510.8 sec
bored out to 2912cc and A.F.C. 1734 mpg (612 km/l)
rounded up to give the
model name 3000.
56 Bentley R-Type Continental

B E NTLEY R-Type Continental


IN ITS DAY THE BENTLEY CONTINENTAL, launched in 1952, was the fastest production
four-seater in the world and acclaimed as a modern magic carpet which annihilates
distance. The R-Type Conti is still rightly considered one of the greatest cars of all
time. Designed for the English country gentleman, it was understated, but had a lithe,
sinewy beauty rarely seen in other cars of its era. Rolls-Royces brief was to create a
fast touring car for plutocrat customers, and to do that they had to reduce both size
and weight. Aluminum construction helped the weight, while wind tunnel testing
created that slippery shape. Those emergent fins at the back were not for decoration
they actually aided the cars directional stability. But such avant-garde development did
not come cheap. In 1952, the R-Type Continental was the most expensive production
car in the world and cost the same as a very large and agreeable house.

POSTWAR CLASSIC EXPORT ONLY


In 1952, with wartime austerity a Such was the cost of
fading memory, this was one of the theContinental that it
flashiest and most rakish cars money was first introduced on
could buy. Today, this exemplar of an export-only basis.
breeding and privilege stands as a
resplendent memorial to the affluence
and optimism of Fifties Britain.
Collectors seem to agree that the
Continental is the finest postwar
Bentley and one of the worlds
all-time great cars.
Bentley R-Type Continental 57

QUALITY RIDE
The Continental was a car that begged you
to press its accelerator pedal to the floor
and reassured you with its powerful brakes.

DESIGN SIMILARITIES
The Continental bears an
uncanny resemblance to a
Pininfarina R-Type prototype
shown at the 1948 Paris Salon.

RADIATOR
Classic Gothic radiator
shell was considered far
more sporting than Rolls-
Royces Doric example.

LIGHTS
Front fog lights
used to be known as pass
lights for overtaking.
58 Bentley R-Type Continental

AERODYNAMIC TESTS
The Continental spent much
time in the wind tunnel to
establish air drag during
forward motion. Sweeping
rear quarters directed the
wind over the rear wheels,
which were covered in spats
to assist airflow. During
prototype testing, it was
found that a normal set
of six-ply tires lasted for
only 20 miles (32 km).

REAR FENDERS
Gently tapering rear fenders
funneled air away into a
slipstream; the Continentals
aerodynamics were way
ahead of its time.

ALUMINUM CONSTRUCTION
Not only was the body made
from lightweight aluminum
courtesy of H. J. Mulliner & Co.
Ltd.but also the side window
and shield frames. The
prototype had high quality
alloy bumpers; production
cars had steel ones.

CARBURETORS
Carburation was by
two SU HD8 units.

WEIGHT
Body weight was
ENGINE kept to a minimum
Continentals used a 4-liter straight-six engine of because no Fifties
4566ccincreased to 4887cc in May 1954 and tires could cope with
known as the big bore engine. It allowed the car speeds over 120
to reach 50 mph (80 km/h) in first gear. mph(193 km/h).
Bentley R-Type Continental 59

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Bentley R-Type Continental


(195255)
PRODUCTION 208
BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater
touring sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Steel chassis, alloy body.
ENGINES 4566 or 4887cc straight-sixes.
POWER OUTPUT Never declared,
described as sufficient.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed synchromesh
manual or auto option.
SUSPENSION Independent front with
wishbones and coil springs, rear live axle
with leaf springs.
BRAKES Front disc, rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 115 mph (185 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 13.5 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 36.2 sec
A.F.C. 19.4 mpg (6.9 km/l)

REAR WINDOW
Pillar box rear window
was a throwback to
prewar cars.

TRUNK SPACE
Trunk was
considered large
enough to carry
luggage for touring.

REAR ASPECT
Rear flanks
are like the
tense haunches
of a sprinter.
PLUSH DASH
The beautifully detailed
dashboard mirrored the Continentals exterior
WHEELS elegance. The first R-Types had manual
Prototypes had gearboxes with a right-hand floor-mounted stick,
spats covering the thus reflecting the cars sporting character. Later
rear wheels. models were offered with automatic boxes.
60 Bentley Flying Spur

B ENTLEY Flying Spur


ARGUABLY THE MOST BEAUTIFUL postwar Bentley, the Flying Spur was the first
four-door Continental. Initially, Rolls-Royce would not allow builder H. J. Mulliner
to use the name Continental, insisting it should only apply to two-door cars. After
months of pressure from Mulliner, R.R. relented and allowed the shapely car to
be known as a proper Continental. More than worthy of the hallowed name,
the Flying Spur was launched in 1957, using the standard S1 chassis. In 1959 it
inherited R.R.s 220 bhp, oversquare, light-alloy V8, and by July 1962 the body shell
was given the double headlight treatment and upgraded into what
some consider to be the best of the breedtheS3 Flying Spur.
Subtle, understated, and elegant, Flying Spurs are rare, and in
their day were among the most admired and refined machines
in the world. Although sharing much with the contemporary
Standard Steel Bentley, the Spurs list price
was half as much more as the stock item.

INTERIOR
Interior includes carefully detailed
switchgear, the finest leather and walnut,
and West of England cloth.
Bentley Flying Spur 61
WEIGHTY REAR POWER STEERING
Tapering tail and swooping The large, spindly steering wheel
roof line managed to lend was power-assisted.
an air of performance.

HAND-BUILT REFINEMENTS
Builder H. J. Mulliner would receive the chassis from
Rolls-Royce and clothe it with a hand-built body. Although
customers would often have to wait up to 18 months for
their cars to be completed, the finished product was
considered the zenith of good taste and refinement.

SPECIFICATIONS
ENGINE
V8 had aluminum MODEL S3 Bentley Continental H. J.
cylinder heads, Mulliner Flying Spur (196266)
block, and pistons. PRODUCTION 291
BODY STYLE Four-door, five-seater.
CONSTRUCTION Aluminum body, separate
steel cross-braced box section chassis.
ENGINE V8, 6230cc.
POWER OUTPUT Never officially declared.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: independent coil
springs and wishbones; Rear: semi-elliptic
leaf springs.
BRAKES Four-wheel Girling drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 115 mph (185 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 10.8 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 34.2 sec
A.F.C. 13.8 mpg (4.9 km/l)

FRONT ASPECT
The Flying Spurs four-headlight nose was shared
with the standard steel Bentley S3, along with a
lowered radiator and hood line. The body was
constructed from hand-rolled aluminum.
62 Bentley Continental Supersports

B EN T L E Y Continental Supersports
THE 2003 CONTINENTAL GT with its magnificent W12 engine changed Bentley
forever. Compact, rapid, reliable, and fashionable, the Conti (to use its street name)
is one of the Crewe firms most admired products and brought the Bentley brand to
a younger customer. In 2009, the Supersports was launched as the fastest production
Bentley ever, and the first to run on gas and biofuel (E85 ethanol). A special
Quickshift tiptronic six-speed automatic gearbox reduced gear change times by
50 percent, and a Torsen T3 four-wheel-drive system made the Supersports sure-
footed enough to break the world speed record on ice at 205 mph (330 km/h).
But despite the epic performance this is an amazingly refined supercar with
superb steering and a truly magic carpet ride.
SIT LIGHTLY
Seat frames in the Supersports
THE PEOPLES POWER PLANT are carbon fiber to save weight.
The VW-designed twin-turbocharged six-liter
W12 engine is one of the worlds best. The
cylinders are arranged in four banks of three
to save space, but even in standard GT
tune this engine still develops
a mighty 552 bhp.
Bentley Continental Supersports 63

KEEPING COOL
Huge grille and SPECIFICATIONS
vents cool engine
MODEL Bentley Continental Supersports
and brakes. (2009)
PRODUCTION N/A
BODY STYLE Four-seater, two-door coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Alloy panels, steel chassis.
ENGINE 5,998cc, W12 Twin Turbo.
POWER OUTPUT 621 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Six-speed tiptronic
automatic.
SUSPENSION Independent all around.
BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 205 mph (330 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 3.7 sec
SUPERSPORTS CLONES 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 8.9 sec
The superfast Bentley has become so iconic and desirable A.F.C. 15 mpg (6.4 km/l)
that owners of ordinary Conti GTs often put on the
revised bumpers and black rims to make their cars look like
Supersports. Theres now a flourishing global industry
pimping up all Continentals.

MONSTER BRAKES NOSE JOB


Ceramic brakes are the Front apron is
most powerful ever fitted unique to Supersports
to a production car. and is plastic to
save weight.
64 BMW 507

BMW 507
WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT that in the mid-Fifties BMW would have unveiled
something as voluptuously beautiful as the 507? The company had a fine
preWorld War II heritage that culminated in the crisp 328, but it did not resume
car manufacturing until 1952, with the curvy, but slightly plump, six-cylinder 501
sedan. Then, at the Frankfurt show of late 1955 they hit us with the 507, designed
by Count Albrecht Goertz. The 507 was a fantasy made real; not flashy, but dramatic
and with poise and presence. BMW hoped the 507 would straighten out its precarious
finances, winning sales in the lucrative American market. But the BMWs exotic looks
and performance were more than matched by an orbital price. Production, which
had been largely by hand, ended in March 1959 after just 252some say 253had
been built. In fact, the 507 took BMW to the brink of financial oblivion; yet if
that had been the last BMW it would have been a beautiful way to die.

TEUTONIC LINKS BRAKES DOOR HANDLES


Mounted on a tubular-steel chassis cut down Most 507s were built with Like the bumpers,
from sedans, Albrecht Goertzs aluminum all-around Alfin drum brakes. the door handles were
body is reminiscent of the contemporary Some later cars had more surprisingly discreetif
and slightly cheaperMercedes-Benz 300SL effective front disc brakes. notparticularly easy to use.
roadster; from the front it resembles the
later AC Aces and Cobra
(see pages 1219).

TOOLKIT
Like all modern BMWs, the
507 had a toolkit in the trunk.
BMW 507 65

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL BMW 507 (195659)


PRODUCTION 252/3, most LHD
BODY STYLE Two-seater roadster.
CONSTRUCTION Box section and tubular
steel chassis; aluminum body.
ENGINE All-aluminum 3168cc V8, two
valves per cylinder.
POWER OUTPUT 150 bhp at 5000 rpm;
some later cars 160 bhp at 5600 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Front: Unequal-length
wishbones, torsion-bar springs
and telescopic shock absorbers;
Rear: Live axle, torsion-bar springs.
BRAKES Drums front and rear; front discs
DRIVING CONDITIONS and rear drums on later cars.
As a drive, the 507 tended toward marked MAXIMUM SPEED 125 mph (201 km/h);
understeer; so instant was throttle response 135140 mph (217225 km/h) with
optional 3.42:1 final drive.
that the tail easily spun out.
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 9 sec
A.F.C. 18 mpg (6.4 km/)
HOOD VENT OPTIONAL POWER
Ornate chrome-plated grilles in Souped-up 160 bhp versions
the front sides covered functional of the 507 were good for
WHEELS
engine-bay air vents. 140 mph (225 km/h).
Knock-off Rudge wheels like this
were the most sought-after option.
66 BMW 507

RAKISH BODY
The 507s body is an all-aluminum affair atop
a simple tubular chassis. Brightwork is kept to
the minimum, accentuating the clean lines.
The brightwork included on the car is kept
simple; the rear bumpers, for example,
have no bulky overriders.

ENGINE
The 3.2-liter all-aluminum engine was
light and powerful. Twin Zenith carbs
are the same as those of the
contemporary Porsches.

TOP
You rarely see a 507
with its top raised, but
it is simple to erect and
remarkably handsome.

PIPE MUSIC
The BMW had a brisk,
wholesome bark and unmistakable
creamy wuffle of a V8.

BEEMER BADGING
Eight BMW stylized propeller roundels,
including those on wheel trims and
eared spinners, grace the 507, nine if
you include the badge in the center
of the steering wheel.
BMW 507 67

ENGINE PROBLEMS
The 3.2-liter engine tended
to run too hot in traffic and
too cool on the open road.

HORN-PULLS
The interior was clearly inspired
by US styling of the period,
with gimmicky horn-pulls
behind the steering wheel.

INTERIOR
The 507, unlike the contemporary 503, has
a floor-mounted stick to operate the four-
speed gearbox. Dash consists of a clock,
speedometer, and tachometer. Some cars
had internally adjustable door mirrors.
68 BMW 3.0CSL

BMW 3.0CSL
ONE LITTLE LETTER CAN MAKE SO much difference. In this case it is the L at
the end of the name tag that makes the BMW 3.0CSL so special. The BMW CS
pillarless coupes of the late Sixties and early Seventies were elegant and good-
looking tourers. But add that L, and you have a legend. The letter actually stands
for Leichtmetall, and when tacked to the rump of the BMW it amounts to
warpaint. The original CSL of 1974 had a 2985cc engine developing 180 bhp, no
front bumper, and a mixture of aluminum and thin steel body panels. In August
1972, a cylinder-bore increase took the CSLs capacity to 3003cc with 200 bhp
and allowed it into Group 2 for competition purposes. But it is the wild-winged,
so-called Batmobile homologation special that really boils the blood of boy
racers. An ultimate road car, great racer, rare, short-lived and high-priced, this
charismatic, pared-down Beemer has got classic credentials.

GOOD LOOKER
Even mild rather than wild and winged, the
CSL is certainly one of the best-looking
cars of its generation. With its pillarless
look, the cabin is light and airy, despite the
black interior. But all that glass made it hot;
air vents behind the BMW rear-pillar
badge helped a little.

TIRES
Standard tires were
195/70 14
Michelin XWXs.
BMW 3.0CSL 69

RACING TRIM STEERING WHEEL


Optional air guide for Steering wheel was straight
rear end of roof was out of the CS/CSi.
available, along
with seven other
aerodynamic aids. CALLING CARD
Large script leaves
no one in any
doubt about
what has just
TRUNK passed them.
The first CSLs
came with
aluminum
trunk, hood,
and doors.
BODY PANELS
Leichtmetall meant
SPOILER EXCESS body panels were
For homologation purposes, at least 500 road cars had to made of aluminum
be equipped with a massive rear spoilerit was considered and thinner-than-
so outrageous that most were supplied for owners to standard steel.
attach at their discretion.
RACING UNIT
The CSLs race
engine grew from 3.2
to 3.5 liters.

BRAKES
Ventilated discs were
necessary to counter the
CSLs immense power.
70 BMW 3.0CSL

ENGINE
In genuine racing trim, the Batmobiles 3.2-liter
straight-six engine gave nearly 400 bhp and, for
1976, nearly 500 bhp with turbocharging. But
road cars like this British-spec 3003cc 3.0CSL
gave around 200 bhp on fuel injection.
SEVENTIES BARGAIN
Just after the 1973 fuel crisis, you could
pick up a CSL for very little money.

ENGINE UPGRADE
Early CSLs had a carburetor-
fed 2985cc engine developing
180 bhp; after 1972, capacity
increased to 3003cc, shown here,
for homologation purposes.

BUMPER-TO-BUMPER
German-market CSLs had no
front bumper and a fiberglass
bumper; this cars metal items
show it to be a British-spec model.

TRACK SUCCESS
The CSLs were the first BMWs
developed under the companys new
Motorsport department which was set
up in 1972. The model produced
immediate success for BMW, initially
in Europe and then on tracks in the
United States. The CSL won all but
one of the European Touring Car
Championships between 1973 and 1979.
BMW 3.0CSL 71

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL BMW 3.0CSL (197174)


PRODUCTION 1,208 (all versions)
BODY STYLE Four-seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel monocoque, steel
and aluminum body.
ENGINES 2985cc, 3003cc, or 3153cc
in-line six.
INTERIOR POWER OUTPUT 200 bhp at
British-spec CSLs, like this car, 5500 rpm (3003cc).
retained Scheel lightweight bucket TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual.
seats, but had carpets, electric SUSPENSION Front: MacPherson struts and
windows (front and rear), power antiroll bar; Rear: semitrailing swinging arms,
coil springs, and antiroll bar.
steering, and a sliver of wood.
BRAKES Servo-assisted ventilated discs
front and rear.
LIMITED EDITION MAXIMUM SPEED 135 mph
500 fuel-injected (217 km/h) (3003cc)
versionsof the CSL 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.3 sec (3003cc)
wereoffered in Britain. 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 21 sec (3003cc)
A.F.C. 2225 mpg (7.88.8 km/l)

DO-IT-YOURSELF
Road-going cars were only slightly lighter
than the CS and CSi; they even had
BMWs trademark toolkit, neatly hinged
from the underside of the trunk lid.
72 BMW M1

BMW M1
THE M1A SIMPLE NAME, a simple concept. M stood for Motorsport GmbH, BMWs
separate competition division. And the number one? Well, this was going to be a first,
for this time BMW was not just going to develop capable racers from competent
sedans and coupes. It was going to build a high-profile, beat-all racer, with road-
going versions basking in the reflected glory of on-track success. The first prototype
ran in 1977, with the M1 entering production in 1978. By the end of manufacture in
1980, a mere 457 racing and road-going M1s had been built, making it one of the
rarest and most desirable of modern BMWs. Though its racing career was only briefly
distinguished, it is as one of the all-time ultimate road cars that the M1 stands out,
for it is not just a 160 mph (257 km/h) autobahnstormer. It is one of the least
demanding supercars to drive, a testament to its fine engineering, and is in many
ways as remarkable as the gorgeous 328 of the 1930s.

INTERNATIONAL CONSTRUCTION LEFTIES


The M1 had widespread international All BMW M1s were
influences. From a concept car created left-hand drive.
SUSPENSION
in 1972 by Frenchman Paul Bracq, the Suspension was a mix of
final body shape was created in Italy by springs, wishbones, and
Giorgio Giugiaros ItalDesign in Turin. telescopic shocks.
Lamborghini also contributed to the
engineering. Yet somehow it all comes
together in a unified shape, and, with the
double kidney grille, the M1 is still
unmistakably a BMW.

AIR DAM
The M1 had only
a vestigial lip-type
front air dam.
BMW M1 73

A PLEASURE TO DRIVE
FUEL CAP The driving position in the M1 is
Twin tanks were filled via extremely good, with adjustable AIR VENTS
an orifice behind each door. steering wheel and well-placed Strategically
pedals in the narrow footwells. positioned air vents
kept the powerful
3.5-liter engine cool.

WHEELS
Slatted Campagnolo wheels
with five-stud fixing were
unique to the M1.
74 BMW M1

CYLINDER HEAD ENGINE


The cylinder head was a The M1s 3453cc straight-six
light-alloy casting, with engine uses essentially the
two chain-driven same cast-iron cylinder block
overhead cams operating as BMWs 635CSi coupe,
four valves per cylinder. but with a forged-alloy
crankshaft and slightly
longer connecting rods.
MIRRORS
Big door mirrors
essential for maneuvering
the M1were
electrically adjusted.
BMW M1 75

DARK INTERIOR
The all-black interior is somber, but
fixtures are all to a high standard; unlike
those of many supercars, the heating
and ventilation systems actually work.
However, rearward visibility through
the slatted, heavily buttressed engine
cover is severely restricted.
REAR LIGHTS
Large rear light clusters
were the same as those of
the 6-series coupe and
7-series sedan models.

SPECIFICATIONS
HEADLIGHTS
Retractable headlights MODEL BMW M1 (197880)
were backed up by grille- PRODUCTION 457
mounted driving lights. BODY STYLE Two-seater
mid-engined sports.
CONSTRUCTION Tubular steel space-frame
with fiberglass body.
ENGINE Inline six, four valves per cylinder,
dohc 3453cc.
POWER OUTPUT 277 bhp at 6500 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Combined ZF five-speed
gearbox and limited slip differential.
SUSPENSION Coil springs, wishbones, and
Bilstein gas-pressure telescopic shock
absorbers front and rear.
BRAKES Servo-assisted ventilated discs
all around.
MAXIMUM SPEED 162 mph (261 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.4 sec
A.F.C. 2430 mpg (8.510.6 km/l)

PURE M1 RACING
BMW teamed up with FOCA (Formula One
Constructors Association) to create the Procar series
M1-only races planned primarily as supporting
events for Grand Prix meetings in 1979 and 1980.
76 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport

B UGATTI Veyron Grand Sport


THE VEYRON IS QUITE SIMPLY the greatest car ever made. This isnt just the fastest
production car in the world, its a technological tour de force that defies physics, gravity,
and common sense. With a 062 mph (0100 km/h) time of less than 2.7 seconds, the
acceleration of the Veyron's open-top version, the Grand Sport, has been described
as like falling out of an airplane, yet its road manners are the pinnacle of civility.
The legendary 16-cylinder, quad-turbocharged engine develops 1,001 bhp, yet it can
brake from 62 mph (100 km/h) to a standstill in only 103 ft (31.4 m). The Veyron
is more than just a million-pound supercar, its a global celebrity in its own right.
BUGATTI REINVENTED
When VW bought the Bugatti brand in 1998 nobody could have
guessed their plans for such a stunning reinvention, or that they
would create the worlds most audacious supercar so quickly.
In 1999, they surprised the world by showing the first concept, TARGA TOP
and by 2005 had created an automotive masterpiece that will Grand Sport versions have
never be repeated in our lifetime. a removable, lightweight,
transparent polycarbonate roof.
WING BRAKE
Air brake rises in 0.4 seconds
and has the stopping power of
an ordinary hatchback.
Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport 77

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport


(2008)
PRODUCTION 450 (all variants)
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater open-
top sports car.
CONSTRUCTION Carbon-fiber composite
and alloy.
ENGINE 7,993cc W16.
POWER OUTPUT 1,001 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Seven-speed, sequential,
dual-clutch automatic.
SUSPENSION Computer-controlled double
wishbones front and rear.
EPIC GEARBOX BRAKES Carbon-fiber, silicone carbide discs
plus rear airbrake.
Steering wheel has magnesium gearbox paddles for the
MAXIMUM SPEED 253 mph (407 km/h)
seven-speed direct-shift, dual-clutch, computer-controlled
062 MPH (0100 KM/H) less than 2.7 sec
automatic made by Ricardo in England. Shift speed is A.F.C. 9.5 mpg (4 km/l)
150 milliseconds and the car's torque is an incredible
1,250 Nm at 2,2005,500 rpm.

OPEN AIR
With roof removed,
speeds of up to 217 mph GREAT BRAKES
(350 km/h) are possible. Brakes are cross-drilled,
radially vented silicon
carbide discs. COOL DOWN
Seven separate radiators
keep engine, gearbox,
and differential cool.
78 Buick Roadmaster (1949)

B UICK Roadmaster (1949)


THE 49 ROADMASTER TOOK THE markets breath away. With a low silhouette,
straight hood, and fastback styling, it was a poem in steel. The first Buick with
a truly new postwar look, the 49 was designed by Ned Nickles using GMs new
C-body. It also boasted two bold new styling motifs: Ventiports and an aggressive
25-tooth Dollar Grin grille. Harley Earls aesthetic of aeronautical entertainment
did the trick, and Buick notched up nearly 400,000 sales that year. Never mind that
the windshield was still two-piece, that there was no power steering, and the engine
was a straight-eightit looked gorgeous and came with the new Dynaflow automatic
transmission. The Roadmaster, like the 49 Cadillac, was a seminal car and the first
flowering of the most flamboyant decade of car design ever seen.

SERIOUS CACHET SPOTLIGHT


For years GMs copywriters crowed that Spotlight with mirror
when better cars are built, Buick will was a $25 option.
build them, and in a sense that hyperbole
VENTIPORT STATUS
was true. In its day, the gloriously
Cheaper Buicks had only
voluptuous Roadmaster was a serious
three Ventiports; the lavish
set of wheels, only one step down from
Roadmaster had four.
aCadillac, and to
own one meant
you really had
arrived.
Buick Roadmaster (1949) 79

BABY FINS
The Art Deco taillights looked
upmarket and blended smoothly into
the rear wings. Nobody could have
guessed that they were emergent fins.

SUSPENSION
All-coil suspension
became standard
on all post-1945
Roadmasters.

VENTS
Ventiports gave the
impression of a fire- HANDLE MOTIF
breathing jet engine. Dynaflow automatic transmission was
introduced as an option on the 48; it is
written in five places on this 49 model.

TIRES AND STEERING


Tires were 820x15 whitewalls; the
steering was unassisted and required
a hefty five turns lock-to-lock.

SCRIPT
Dynaflow was such a new
idea that Buick proudly
scripted it onto the rear fender.
80 Buick Roadmaster (1949)

ADVERTISING SIGN OF THE TIMES


The 49s class set The Roadmaster may have shared its body with the
thetrend for later Oldsmobile 98 and the Cadillac Series 62, but it
Roadmasters, with the gave Buick a distinction never seen before. Big,
copywriters eager to bold, and brash, the 49 was perfect for its time,
stress that the model andit began the trend for lower, sleeker styling.
was the Buick Optimistic, opulent, and glitzy, it carried strident
of Buicks. styling cues that told people a block away that this
was no ordinary car, this was a Buickeven better,
the very best Buick money could buy.

CLASSY REAR
Elegant flourish
completed the swooping
teardrop rear.

STYLING
The GM C-body
had closed
quarters and
Sedanette styling.
Buick Roadmaster (1949) 81

EARLY TRADEMARKS
Gun-sight hood ornament, bucktooth grille,
and Ventiports were flashy styling
metaphors that would become famous
Buick trademarks. Although divided
by a center pillar, the windshield
glass was actually curved.

ENGINE
The Roadie had a
Fireball straight-eight
cast-iron
320cid engine.

GRILLE
The classic vertical
grille bars were
replaced for the
1955 model year.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL 1949 Buick Roadmaster Series


70 Sedanette
PRODUCTION 18,415 (1949)
BODY STYLE Two-door fastback coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINE 320cid straight-eight.
POWER OUTPUT 150 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Two-speed Dynaflow
automatic.
SUSPENSION Front and rear coil springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 100 mph
(161 km/h)
DASHBOARD 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 17 sec
The instrument panel was new for 49 and A.F.C. 20 mpg (7 km/l)
described as pilot centered because the
speedo was positioned straight ahead of the
driver through the steering wheel.
82 Buick Roadmaster (1957)

B UICK Roadmaster (1957)


IN 1957, AMERICA WAS GEARING up for the Sixties. Little Richard screamed his way
to the top with Lucille and Elvis had nine hits in a row. Jack Kerouac penned his
immortal novel On the Road, inspiring carloads of Americans to seek the admans
Promised Land along Ikes new interstates. Fins and chrome were applied with a
shovel and General Motors spent several hundred million dollars refashioning their
Buick model line. The Roadmaster of 1957 was low and mighty, a massive 17 ft 11
in (5.46 m) long and 6 ft (1.83 m) wide. Power was up to 300 bhp, along with trendy
dorsal fins, sweepspear body moldings, and a trio of chrome chevrons on the rear
quarters. Four Ventiports, a Buick trademark harking back to the original 1949
Roadmaster, still graced the sweeping front fenders. But America did not take to Buicks
new look, particularly some of the Roadmasters fashionable jet-age design motifs.

PLANE STYLING
CABIN OR COCKPIT?
Aircraft design exerted a big influence
Rakish swooping roof line
on automotive styling in the Fifties, and the
borrowed heavily from bubble
57 Roadmaster was no exception. With
cockpits of jet fighters.
wraparound windshield, cockpitlike roof
area, and turbine-style wheel covers, a nation
of Walter Mittys could imagine themselves
vapor-trailing through the stratosphere.

HEIGHT
The 57 Roadmaster
was lower and sleeker
than previous models.
Buick Roadmaster (1957) 83

ENGINE FICKLE FASHION


V8 had 10:1 Wraparound windshields first
compression ratio, which emerged in 1954 and by 1957
meant 100 octane fuel. were on virtually every car.

JET AGE
Giant chrome LUXURY GOODS
protuberances suggested The Roadmaster was one of Buicks most
jet-turbine power. luxurious models and wore its hood GRILLE
ornament with pride. 1957 saw the return of the
classic vertical bars, which
had been dropped in 1955.
SWEEPSPEAR
The dramatic sweepspear kicks
up violently over the wheelarch.

NEW SUSPENSION
The 57 model had
revised front suspension
with ball-joint mounting.
84 Buick Roadmaster (1957)

TRUNK
The cavernous trunk could
accommodate almost anything
you could buy at the mall in
the consumer-driven Fifties.

ENGINE
The hot Buicks 5.9-liter V8 pushed
out 300 bhp; it was capable of
112 mph (180 km/h) and 0 to 60 mph
(96 km/h) in 10 seconds. Dynaflow
transmission had variable pitch blades
which changed their angle like those
of an airplane propeller.

STYLING EXCESS
Vast chrome rear bumper made for a prodigious
overhang, with massive Dagmarlike overriders,
razor-sharp taillights, and fluted underpanela
stylistic nightmare. One interesting new feature
was the fuel cap, now positioned in a slot
above the rear license plate.

FIN DETAIL
The Roadmaster showed that, by 1957, tail-fin fashion
was rising to ridiculous heights. Unfortunately, by 57
the Roadmaster looked very much like every other
American car. Gone was that chaste individuality, and
Buick began to lose its reputation as a maker of high-
quality carsproduction fell by 24 percent this year.
Buick Roadmaster (1957) 85

LIMITED VISION
Small tinted rear SPECIFICATIONS
windshielddidnt offer much
MODEL Buick Roadmaster (1957)
assistance to the driver in
PRODUCTION 36,638 (1957)
reversing situations.
BODY STYLE Two-door, five-seater
hardtop coupe.
CONSTRUCTION X-braced chassis with
steel body.
ENGINE V8, 364cid.
POWER OUTPUT 250 bhp at 4400 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Dynaflow two-speed
automatic.
SUSPENSION Independent coil springs.
BRAKES Hydraulic servo drums all around.
MAXIMUM SPEED 112 mph (180 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 10.5 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 21.2 sec
A.F.C. 12 mpg (4.2 km/l)

POWER STEERING
Power-assisted steering and
Dynaflow automatic transmission
became standard on all
Roadmasters from 1953.

GM BADGING
Badge at the center of the
steering wheel indicates that
Buicks were built at GMs
factory in Flint, Michigan.

INTERIOR
Roadmaster standard special equipment
included a Red Liner speedometer, glove
compartment lamp, trip mileage indicator,
and a color-coordinated dash panel. From
1955 Roadmasters could be ordered with a
choice of 10 types of interior trim.
86 Buick Limited Riviera (1958)

B UICK Limited Riviera (1958)


WHEN YOUR FORTUNES ARE FLAGGING, you pour on the chrome. As blubbery barges
go, the 58 Limited has to be one of the gaudiest. Spanning 19 ft (5.78 m) and tipping
the scales at two tons, the Limited is empirical proof that 1958 was not Buicks
happiest year. Despite all that twinkling kitsch and the reincarnated Limited badge,
the bulbous Buick bombed. For astart, GMs Dynaflow automatic transmission was
not up to Pontiacs Hydra-Matic standards, and the Limiteds brakes were disinclined
to work. Furthermore, in what was a recession year for the industry, the Limited had
been priced into Cadillac territory$33 more than the Series 62. Total production
for the Limited in 1958 was a very limited 7,436 units. By the late Fifties, Detroit
had lost its way, and the 58 Limited was on the road to nowhere.

TRIMMINGS
Interiors were trimmed in gray
cloth and vinyl or Cordaveen.
CHILD OF THE FIFTIES Seat cushions had Double-
Buicks answer to an aircraft BODY STYLES Depth foam rubber.
carrier was a riot of As well as this four-door Riviera,
ornamentation that went on the 700 Series also included a
for half a block. At rest, the two-door version, a stripped
Limited looked like it needed chassis model, and a convertible.
a fifth wheel to support that
weighty rear overhang.
Buick Limited Riviera (1958) 87

WINDSHIELD
The large windshield was
served by wide angle
wipers and an automatic
windshield washer.

SUSPENSION
Front suspension
was coil springs
with A-arms.

LIMITED BADGING
First time the
Limited badge had FLASHY GRILLE
been used since 1942. The Fashion-Aire Dynastar grille consisted
of no fewer than 160 chrome squares, each
with four polished facets to give some serious
sparkle to the Limiteds front end.
DECORATION
Unique to the Limited
were 15 utterly pointless
chrome slashes.
88 Buick Limited Riviera (1958)

REAR ASPECT
The Buicks butt was a confused jumble of
bosomy curves, slanting fins, and horizontal
flashings. The trunk itself was big enough to
house a football team.

PARKING AIDS
Fender ornaments may look
absurd but were useful in
parking the Buicks huge girth.

SUSPENSION
Air-Poise suspension was an option
that used pressurized air bladders for
a supposedly smooth hydraulic ride.
The system often failed, however, and
literally let itself down.

ENGINE VIEW
The Valve-in-Head B12000 engine kicked
out 300 horses, with a 364 cubic inch
displacement. These specifications were
respectable enough on paper, but on the
road the Limited was too heavy to be
anything other than sluggish.
Buick Limited Riviera (1958) 89

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Buick Limited Riviera Series


CHROME TRIM 700 (1958)
The metal with a PRODUCTION 7,436 (1958, all Series 700
shiny coating could be body styles)
found on everything BODY STYLES Two- and four-door, six-
seater hardtops, two-door convertible.
from food mixers to
CONSTRUCTION Steel monocoque.
radios in the Fifties.
ENGINE 364cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 300 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Flight-Pitch
ECONOMY Dynaflow automatic.
Producing 13 mpg SUSPENSION Front: coil springs with
(4.6 km/l), the A-arms; Rear: live axle with coil springs.
Limited was thirsty. Optional air suspension.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 110 mph (177 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 9.5 sec
A.F.C. 13 mpg (4.6 km/l)

HORN
Horn-pulls were pretty
much standard on every
US car in the Fifties.

INTERIOR
Power steering and brakes were essential
and came as standard. Other standard
equipment included an electric clock,
cigarette lighters, and electric windows.
90 Buick Riviera (1964)

B UICK Riviera (1964)


IN 58, SO THE STORY GOES, GMs design supremo Bill Mitchell was entranced by
a Rolls-Royce he saw hissing past a London hotel. What we want, said Mitchell,
is a cross between a Ferrari and a Rolls. By August 1960, hed turned his vision
into a full-size clay mock-up. One of the worlds most handsome cars, the original
63 Riviera locked horns with Fords T-Bird and was GMs attempt at a Great New
American Classic Car. And it worked. Separate and elegant, the Riv was a clever
amalgam of razor edges and chaste curves, embellished by just the right amount
of chrome. Beneath the exquisite lines was a cross-member frame, a 401cid V8,
power brakes, and a two-speed Turbine Drive tranny. In the interests of exclusivity,
Buick agreed that only 40,000 would be made each year. With ravishing looks,
prodigious performance, and the classiest image in town, the Riv ranks as one
of Detroits finest confections.
DIMENSIONS
Relatively compact, the
Riviera was considerably
CLASS APPEAL FINE-LINE DESIGN shorter and lighter than
The Riv was Americas answer to Superbly understated, other big Buicks.
the Bentley Continental, and razor-edged styling made
pandered to Ivy League Americas for a clean, crisp-
obsession with aristocratic looking machine.
European thoroughbreds like
Aston Martin, Maserati, and Jaguar.

FENDER LINE
The fender line pre-
dated the R.R. Silver
Shadow by three years.
Buick Riviera (1964) 91

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Buick Riviera (1964)


PRODUCTION 37,958 (1964)
BODY STYLE Two-door hardtop coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINE 425cid V8
POWER OUTPUT 340360 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Two- or three-speed
automatic.
SUSPENSION Front and rear
coil springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 120125 mph
(193201 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8 sec
CONWAY TWITTY A.F.C. 1216 mpg (4.25.7 km/l)
The crooner of such tunes as Its Only Make Believe
owned the 64 Riv on these pages, and he personalized
it with his own license plate.

CHUNKY PILLAR
Hefty rear pillars made
ELECTRONIC TRUNK
for tricky blind spots.
One optional extra was a
remote-controlled trunk lid,
which was pretty neat for 64.

TIRES
Optional whitewalls and
Formula Five chrome-look steel
wheels made a cute car even cuter.
92 Buick Riviera (1964)

CLASSIC RIV FRONT


63 and 64 Rivs have classic
exposed double headlights. For
reasons best known to itself,
Buick gave 65 cars headlights
that were hidden behind
electrically-operated,
clam-shell doors.

ENGINE
64s had a 425cid Wildcat V8 that ROVER TRANSFER
could be tickled up to 360 horses, Buick sold the tooling
courtesy of dual four-barrels. Car for the old 401 to
Life magazine tested a 64 Riv Rover, who used it to
with the Wildcat unit and great success on its
stomped to 60 mph (96 km/h) in Range Rover.
a scintillating 7.7 seconds.
Buick Riviera (1964) 93

INTERIOR
ENGINE OPTION The sumptuous Riv was a
65 saw a Gran Sport full four-seater, with the
option with 360 bhp mill, rear seat divided to look
limited slip diff, and like buckets. The dominant
Giro-Poise roll control. V-shaped center console
mushroomed from
between the front seats to
blend into the dashboard.
The cars interior has a
European ambience that
was quite uncharacteristic
for the period.

T-BIRD BEATER
GRILLE High-rolling price
The grille was of $4,333 was
inspired by actually $153
the Ferrari cheaper than
250GT. Fords T-Bird.

W-SHAPE
The purposeful W-section
front could have come
straight out of an Italian
styling house. The classy
Riviera soon became the
American Jaguar.
94 Buick Riviera (1971)

B UICK Riviera (1971)


THE 63 RIVIERA HAD BEEN one of Buicks best sellers, but by the late Sixties it
was lagging far behind Fords now-luxurious Thunderbird. However, the Riviera
easily outsold its stablemate, the radical front-wheel drive Toronado; but for 71
Buick upped the stakes by unveiling a new Riviera that was a little bit special. The
new model had become almost a caricature of itself, now bigger and brasher than
it ever was before. Handsome and dramatic, the boat-tail, as it was nicknamed,
had its stylistic roots in the split rear window Sting Ray of 63. It was as elegant
as Jackie Onassis and as hard-hitting as Muhammad Ali. Its base price was
$5,251, undercutting the arch-rival T-Bird by a wide
margin. Designer Bill Mitchell nominated it as
his favourite car of all time, and, while sales
ofRivieras hardly went crazy, at last Buick
had a flagship model that was the envy of
the industry. It was the coupe in which
to make a truly stunning entrance.

ENGINE
The Riviera came with GMs
biggest mill, the mighty 455.
The hotter Gran Sport option
made the massive V8 even
smoother and quieter and
offered big-buck buyers
a shtonking 330 bhp. One
reviewer said of the GS-
engined car, theres nothing
better made on these shores.

GRILLE
The lines of the boat-tail were
not only beautiful at the rear
but were carried right through
to the thrusting, pointed grille.
Buick Riviera (1971) 95

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Buick Riviera (1971)


PRODUCTION 33,810 (1971)
BODY STYLE Two-door coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and box-
section chassis.
ENGINE 455cid V8.
ARCHES POWER OUTPUT 315330 bhp.
Wheel arches were TRANSMISSION Three-speed Turbo
Hydra-Matic automatic.
wide open and went
SUSPENSION Front: independent
against the trend for CHUNKY REAR coil springs; Rear: self-leveling
skirted fenders. The muscular rear flanks flow into pneumatic bellows over shocks.
the boat-tail rear. Only a Detroit BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
stylist would graft a huge chrome MAXIMUM SPEED 125 mph
(201 km/h)
point to the back of a car.
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.4 sec
A.F.C. 1215 mpg (4.25.3 km/l)

FINE LINES
Daring lines such
as these had never
before been seen on CABIN
a production car. The Seventies cabin was
plush but plasticky.

INTERIOR
After 1972, the rear seat could be split 60/40
pretty neat for a coupe. The options list
was infinite, and you could swell the cars
sticker price by a small fortune. Tilt steering
wheel came as standard.
96 Buick Riviera (1971)

AIR VENTS OVERHEAD BEAUTY


Vents were part of The Rivieras styling may have been excessive, but PILLARLESS STYLE
the air-conditioning it still made a capacious five-seater, despite the With the side windows
system and unique fastback roof line and massive rear window. The down, the Riv was
to 71 Rivieras. 122 in (3.1 m) wheelbase made the 71 boat-tail pillarless, further gracing
longer than previous Rivieras. those swooping lines.

SUPREME STOPPING POWER


The Riviera drew praise for its braking, TINTED SHIELD
helped by a Max Trac antiskid option. Soft-Ray tinted glass
The Riv could stop from 60 mph helped keep things cool.
(96 km/h) in 135 ft (41 m), a whole
40 ft (12 m) shorter than its rivals.

BRAKES
Discs on the front
helped create a quality
braking system.
Buick Riviera (1971) 97

MITCHELL TRADEMARK REAR VIEW


The rear was a Bill Mitchell View from
classic that had his rearview mirror
trademark stamped all over was slightly
it, the GM supremo having restricted.
also designed the rear of
the 63 Sting Ray coupe.

SEATS
Seating could be
all-vinyl bench
seats with
custom trim or
front buckets.
REAR WINDOW TRUNK RELEASE
One-piece rear windshield Electric trunk releases are not a
curves downward. modern phenomenonthey were
on the 71 Rivieras options list.
98 Cadillac Series 62

C ADILLAC Series 62
WE OWE A LOT TO THE 49 Cadillac. It brought us tail fins and a high-compression
V8. Harley Earl came up with those trendsetting rear rudders, and John F. Gordon
the performance motor. Between them they created the basic
grammar of the postwar American car. In 1949 the one
millionth Caddy rolled off the production line, and the
stunning Series 62 was born. Handsome and quick,
it was a complete revelation. Even the haughty British
and Italians nodded sagely in admiration and, at a
whisker under $3,000, it knocked the competition
dead in their tracks. As Cadillac ads boasted:
The new Cadillac is not only the worlds
most beautiful and distinguished motor car,
but its performance is a challenge to the
imagination. The American Dream
and the finest era in American cars
began with the 49 Cadillac.

INTERIOR
The cabin was heavily chromed and
oozed quality. Colors were gray-blue
or brown with wool carpets to match, UNDER THE HOOD
and leather or cloth seats. Steering was While styling was similar to that of
Saginaw, with standard four-speed the 48 model, the new OHV V8
auto transmission. in the 49 was an innovation.
Cadillac Series 62 99

CADDY INSPIRATION SPECIFICATIONS


1948 was the year of the fin and the year of the crme des
Cadillac. Cadillac designers Bill Mitchell, Harley Earl, Frank MODEL Cadillac Series 62 (1949)
Hershey, and Art Ross had been smitten by a secret P-38 PRODUCTION 92,554 (all body styles)
Lockheed Lightning fighter plane. Cadillac also had Ed Coles BODY STYLE Two-door, five-seater
fastback.
OHV V8, some 10 years in the making. CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
With a brief to reduce weight and ENGINE 331cid V8.
increase compression, the end POWER OUTPUT 162 bhp.
result was an engine with more TRANSMISSION Four-speed Hydra-Matic
torque and better mileage automatic.
than any other at the time. SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
Rear: leaf springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
WINDSHIELD MAXIMUM SPEED 100 mph (161 km/h)
Curved windscreen 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 13.4 sec
was a novelty for a A.F.C. 17 mpg (6 km/l)
1949 car.

SECRET CAP
Fuel cap was
hidden under
taillight, a Cadillac
trait since 1941.

CADDY BADGING TAIL VIEW


The V emblem below the crest The plane-inspired rear fins became
denoted V8 power; the basic badge a Caddy trademark and would reach
design remained unaltered until 1952. a titanic height on 59 models.
100 Cadillac Series 62

BENTLEY CONNECTION?
The classic 1952 Bentley R-Type
Continental certainly bears a startling
similarity to the 49 Cadillac, and
automotive academics have frequently
hinted at plagiarism.

SQUARE REAR
Among minor design
changes from 1948
was the more
squared-off rear.

HYDRAULICS
Front windows
and seats were
hydraulically
operated.

ENGINE TESTING
POWER BLOCK Prototype engine was perfect
Trendsetting new after 541 hours testing.
OHV 331cid V8
developed 160 bhp.
Cadillac Series 62 101

BELIEVE THE HYPE FINE LINES


Cadillac advertisements trumpeted that the Glorious tapering
49 was the worlds most beautiful car, roof line.
and the simple yet elegant styling
caught the publics
imagination.

GRILLE DECORATION
Grille was Chrome slashes were
heavier on the 49 TIRES inspired by aircraft
than on the 48. Tires ran at only 24 psi, air intakes.
making unassisted steering
heavy for the driver.
CLASSIC STYLING
Hugely influential body design was
penned by Harley Earl and Julio Andrade
at GMs styling studios. Many of the 49
features soon found themselves on
other GM products such as
Oldsmobile and Buick.
102 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible (1953)

C ADILLAC Eldorado Convertible (1953)


FOR 1950s AMERICA, CARS DID NOT come much more glamorous than the 1953 Eldorado.
A car aparteven from other Cadillacs,assured the advertising copy. The first Caddy
to bear the Eldo badge, it was seen as the ultimate and most desirable American luxury
car, good enough even for Marilyn Monroe and Dwight Eisenhower. Conceived as a
limited edition, the 53 brought avant-garde styling cues from Harley Earls Motorama
Exhibitions. Earl was Cadillacs inspired chief designer, while Motoramas were yearly
futuristic car shows where his whims of steel took on form. At a hefty $7,750, nearly
twice as much as the regular Cadillac Convertible and five times as much as an ordinary
Chevrolet, the 53 was special. In 1954, Cadillac cut the price by 50 percent and soon
Eldorados were leaving showrooms like heat-seeking missiles. Today collectors regard
the 53 as the one that started it allthe first and most fabulous of the Eldorados.

AIR-CON WEIGHT
POWER TOPPERS Air-conditioning boosted the cars
At the time the 53 was Americas most weight to 4,800 lb (2,177 kg),
powerful car, with a cast-iron V8, four- but top speed was still a brisk
barrel carburetor, and wedge cylinder head. 116 mph (187 km/h).
With the standard convertible weighing
300 lb (136 kg) less, the Eldorado was
actually the slowest of the Cadillacs.
Cadillac Eldorado Convertible (1953) 103

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Cadillac Eldorado Convertible


(1953)
PRODUCTION 532 (1953)
BODY STYLE Five-seater convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel bodywork.
ENGINE 5424cc V8.
POWER OUTPUT 210 bhp at 4150 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed Hydra-Matic
Dual-Range automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: independent
MacPherson strut; Rear: live axle
with leaf springs.
FUTURISTIC STYLING BRAKES Front and rear drums.
The twin exhausts emerge from the rear bumper MAXIMUM SPEED 116 mph (187 km/h)
the beginnings of jet-age styling themes which would 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 12.8 sec
culminate in the outrageous 42-in (107-cm) fins on the 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 20 sec
1959 Cadillac Convertible (see pages 10609). A.F.C. 1420 mpg (57 km/l)
MATERIAL
Top was made
of Orlon acrylic. SLICK DESIGN
The top disappeared neatly
below a steel tonneau panel,
giving the Eldorado a much SPARE WHEEL
cleaner uninterrupted line The trunk-mounted spare
than other convertibles. wheel was an after-market
continental touring kit.

TIRES
Slick whitewall tires and chrome wire wheels
were standard on the Eldorado Convertible.
104 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible (1953)

TOP OF THE LINE WINDSHIELD


As Cadillacs finest flagship, The standard Cadillac
the Eldorado had image by wraparound
the bucketful. The 331 cubic windshield was first
inch V8 engine was the most seen on the 53.
powerful yet, and the body
line was ultrasleek.

TWO-WAY MIRROR
The heavily chromed,
hand-operated swiveling
spotlight doubled up as
a door mirror.

CHROME STYLING
Dagmars were so-called
after a lushly upholstered
starlet of the day.
Cadillac Eldorado Convertible (1953) 105

ANTENNA
Antenna picked up
reception for self-
tuning radio.

DASHBOARD
Standard equipment on the Eldo convertible
was Hydra-Matic transmission, hydraulic
window lifts, leather and cloth upholstery,
tinted glass, vanity and side
mirrors, plus a self-
tuning radio.

BODY COLOR
Colors available were Alpine
White, Aztec Red, Azure
Blue, and Artisan Ochre.
106 Cadillac Convertible

C ADILLAC Convertible
NO CAR BETTER SUMS UP AMERICA at its peak than the 1959 Cadillaca rocket-styled
starship for orbiting the galaxy of new freeways in the richest and most powerful
country on earth. With 42 in (107 cm) fins, the 59 Caddy marks the zenith of
American car design. Two tons in weight, 20 ft (6.1 m) long, and 6 ft (1.83 m) wide,
it oozed money, self-confidence, and unchallenged power. Under a hood almost
the size of Texas nestled an engine almost as big as California. But while it might
have looked like it was jet-powered, the 59 handled like the Exxon Valdez. So what.
The 59 Caddy will always be remembered as a glorious monument to the final years
of shameless American optimism. And for a brief,hysterical moment the 59 was
the preeminent American car, the ultimate in crazed consumerism. Not a car, but
an exemplar of its time that says more about FiftiesAmerica than a trunk of history
books. The 59 was the American Dream.
QUARTERLIGHTS
HALLOWED STATUS WINDSHIELD Chrome door
With tail fins that rose a full 312 ft Steep, wraparound quarterlights could
(1.07 m) off the ground, the 59 is an windshield could have be swiveled from
artifact, a talisman of its times. Not a come straight out of inside the car.
car, but a styling icon, wonderfully afighter plane.
representative of the end of an era
the last years of American world
supremacy and an obsession with
space travel and men from Mars.

TIRES
Glamorous white
sidewall tires were a
convenience option.
Cadillac Convertible 107

TOP LIGHTS
With top furled, the Egg -shaped ruby
Cadillac had a taillights were
dartlike profile. pure jet age.

EXCESS REAR
Commentators at the time actually thought the 59
too garish. So did Cadillac, which took 6 in (15.5 cm)
DOORS off the fins in the following model year. TRUNK
Massive slab-sided Trunk was cavernous
doors gave easy and could hold five
entrance and exit. wheels and tires.

EXTRAVAGANT LENGTH
The 59s length meant that its turning
circle was a massive 24 ft (7.3 m).
108 Cadillac Convertible

SPACIOUS
Interior was vast, a
true six-seater with
acres of room.

HOOD STATUS
With a hood the size of an
aircraft carrier, the 59 Caddy
was perfect for a society
where a cars importance
was defined by the length
of its nose. The price to pay
for such excess was that the INTERIOR CHOICES
front end was notorious for In addition to power brakes
vibration. To help with the and steering, auto transmission,
comfort factor, electrically central locking, and tinted
operated seats, windows, and glass, you could also specify
trunk could all be ordered. automatic headlight dimming.
Cadillac Convertible 109

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Cadillac Eldorado Convertible


(1959)
PRODUCTION 11,130 (1959)
BODY STYLE Two-door, six-seater
convertible.
CONSTRUCTION X-frame chassis,
steel body.
ENGINE 6.3-liter (390cid) V8.
POWER OUTPUT 325/345 bhp
at 4800 rpm.
TRANSMISSION GM Hydra-Matic three-
speed automatic.
SUSPENSION All-around coil springs with
optional Freon-12 gas suspension.
BRAKES Four-wheel hydraulic power-
assisted drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 112 mph (180 km/h)
ENGINE 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 10.3 sec
The monster 6.3-liter V8 engine had a cast-iron 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 23.1 sec
block, five main bearings, and hydraulic valve A.F.C. 8 mpg (2.8 km/l)
lifters, pushing out a not inconsiderable
325 bhp at 4800 rpm.

HIDDEN LIGHTS
Extravagant mounds of
chromemight look like turbines
but concealed reversing lights.

TAIL VIEW
The 59s outrageous fins, which
are the highest of any car in the world,
are accentuated by its very low profile
3 in (8 cm) lower than the 58 models
already modest elevation.
110 Cadillac Eldorado (1976)

C ADILLAC Eldorado (1976)


BY 1976, CADILLACS HAD BECOME so swollen that they plowed through corners,
averaged 13 mpg (4.6 km/l), and were as quick off the line as anM24 tank. Despite
a massive 500cid V8, output of the 76 Eldo was a lowly 190 brake horsepower,
with a top speed of just 109 mph (175 km/h). Something had to change, and
Cadillacs response had been the 75 Seville. But the 76 Eldo marked the end of an
era for another reasonit was the last American convertible. Cadillac was the final
automobile manufacturer to delete the ragtop from their model lineup and, when
they made the announcement that the convertible was to be phased out at the end
of 76, the market fought to buy up the last 200. People even tried to cut in line by
claiming they were distantly related to Cadillacs founder. One 72-year-old man in
Nebraska bought six. A grand American institution had quietly passed away.

FIXTURES
Interiors could be specified in
TRADITIONAL SETUP
Merlin Plaid, lush velour,
Big and slab-sided, the 76 Eldo
Mansion Knit, or 11 types of
used a front-wheel drive
Sierra Grain leather.
arrangement that had first been FUNKY MIRROR
used on the 67 Eldorado and is The heavy chrome adjustable door
stillused today. The 76 Convertible mirror was electrically operated and
had big vital statistics, measuring incorporated a thermometer that
225 in (5.7 m) long, 80 in (2 m) displayed the outside temperature.
wide, and costing $10,354.

BRAKES
Eldorados had standard
four-wheel discs with
transistorized rear control.
Cadillac Eldorado (1976) 111

FINAL DEMAND
Such was the demand for these last convertibles that
some changed hands for as much as $20,000,
nearly double the list price. AUTO LIGHTS
Twilight Sentinel option
operated the headlights
according to outside conditions.

SAFETY RUBBER
Strips at the rear and
front of the car were
rubber crumple zones.
112 Cadillac Eldorado (1976)

ECONOMY CLASS
Raised compression ratios and
a recalibrated carburetor gave
the Eldo better fuel economy
than might be expected from
such a mammoth block.
Hydro-Boost power
brakes were needed
to stop the 5,153 lb
(2,337 kg) colossus.

SUSPENSION
Independent coil
springs were
complemented
byautomatic
level control.

WOOD
Interior wood was called
distressed pecan grain.
INTERIOR
Technically advanced
options were always
Cadillacs forte. The Eldo
SPECIFICATIONS was available with an
airbag, Dual Comfort
MODEL Cadillac Eldorado Convertible front seats with fold-
(1976) down armrests, and a
PRODUCTION 14,000 (1976) six-way power seat.
BODY STYLE Two-door, six-seater
convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
COLOR CHOICE
ENGINE 500cid V8. Eldos could be
POWER OUTPUT 190 bhp. ordered in 21
TRANSMISSION Three-speed Hydra-Matic body colors.
Turbo automatic.
SUSPENSION Front and rear independent
coil springs with automatic level control.
BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 109 mph (175 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 15.1 sec
A.F.C. 13 mpg (4.6 km/l)
Cadillac Eldorado (1976) 113
SPACE
ENGINE Even with the top up, the
Already strangled by Eldo was gargantuan inside.
emission pipery, the need to
maximize every gallon meant that the
big 500bhp V8 was embarrassingly lethargic
when it came to speed. Even lower ratio
rear axles were used to boost mileage.

CONVERTOR
All Eldorados
had a catalytic
convertor as
standard.

CADILLAC NAME
The Cadillac shield harkens
back to 1650 and the original
French Cadillac family.
French model names were
used in 1966 with the Calais
and DeVille lines. REFLECTORS
Slightly superfluous in that
not many drivers would
miss this giant on the road.
114 Chevrolet Corvette (1954)

C HEVROLET Corvette (1954)


A CARICATURE OF A EUROPEAN roadster, the first Corvette of 1953 was more show
than go. With typical arrogance, Harley Earl was more interested in the way it looked
saw a huge market for a new type of auto opium. With everybodys dreams looking
exactly the same, the plastic Vette brought a badly needed shot of designed-in
diversity. Early models may have been cramped and slow, but they looked like
theyd been lifted straight off a Motorama turntable, which they had. Building
them was a nightmare though, and for a while GMlost money on each one.
Still, nobody minded because Chevrolet now had a new imageas the company
that came up with the first American sports car.

EXHIBITION SUCCESS PERFORMANCE


The Vettes shape was based on the 1952 EX- Performance was not in the
122 show car, and this was one of the few Jaguar XK120 league,
Motorama dream cars to go into production with a modest 107 mph
virtually unchanged. The original plan to (172 km/h) top speed.
produce the Vette in steel was shelved after
widespread acclaim for the fiberglass body
from visitors to Motorama.
Chevrolet Corvette (1954) 115

OVERVIEW
INTERNAL HANDLES The cleverly packaged fiberglass body was
Like the British sports cars rather tricky to make, with no less than 46
it aped, the 54 Vettes door different sections. The soft top folded out
handles lived on the inside. of sight below a neat lift-up panel.

SUSPENSION
Outboard-mounted rear
leaf springs helped
cornering stability.
116 Chevrolet Corvette (1954)

REAR PLATE PROBLEMS


Early cars had license plates in a
plastic niche that had a tendency
to mist up. To resolve the problem,
Chevrolet inserted two bags
of desiccant material to
absorb the moisture.

LIMITED SPACE
Enthusiasts were not
thrilled with the small
trunk, plastic body, and
lethargic performance.

TIRES
Bus tires lacked adhesion, suspension
was unyielding, and the two-speed
automatic jerked all over the place.

INTERIOR GUIDING WORDS


An aeronautical fantasy, the Earls advice to stylists working on
Corvettes dashboard had a the Corvette was to go all the way
futuristic, space-age feel. Not until and then back off. The end result
1958 was the row of dials was that they didnt actually back
repositioned to a more practical, off much and produced one of the
front of the driver, location. most charismatic cars of the day.
Chevrolet Corvette (1954) 117

ENGINE
The souped-up Blue SPECIFICATIONS
Flame Six block may
have had triple MODEL Chevrolet Corvette (1954)
carburetors, higher PRODUCTION 3,640 (1954)
compression, and a BODY STYLE Two-door,
two-seater sports.
high-lift cam, but it
CONSTRUCTION Fiberglass body,
was still old and steel chassis.
wheezy. Vettes had to ENGINE 235.5cid straight six.
wait until 1955 for the POWER OUTPUT 150 bhp.
V8 they deserved. TRANSMISSION Two-speed Powerglide
automatic.
BODY COLOR SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
Oddly enough, 80 percent Rear: leaf springs with live axle.
of all 54 Corvettes were BRAKES Front and rear drums.
painted white. MAXIMUM SPEED 107 mph
(172 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 812 sec
A.F.C. 20 mpg (7 km/l)

GUARDS
Stone guards on lights were
culled from European
racing cars, but criticized
for being too feminine.

ITALIAN SMILE
Earl admitted that the
shark-tooth grille was robbed
from contemporary Ferraris.

BUMPERS
Impact protection may have
beenvestigial, but the fiberglass
body took knocks well.
118 Chevrolet Bel Air (1957)

C HEVROLET Bel Air (1957)


CHEVROLET CALLED THEIR 57 LINE sweet, smooth, and sassy, and the Bel Air was
exactly what America wanteda junior Cadillac. Finny, trim, and handsome, and with
Ed Coles Super Turbo-Fire V8, it boasted one of the first production engines to
pump out one horsepower per cubic inch, and was the first mass-market fuelie
sedan with Ramjet injection. Chevy copywriters screamed the Hot Ones even
hotter, and Bel Airs became kings of the street. Production that year broke the 112
million barrier and gave Ford the fright of its life. The trouble was that the Hot
One was forced to cool it when the Automobile Manufacturers Association urged
carmakers to put an end to their performance hysteria. Today, the Bel Air is one of
the most widely coveted US collectors cars and the perfect embodiment of young
mid-Fifties America. In the words of the Billie Jo Spears song, Wish we still had
her today; the good love were living, we owe it to that 57 Chevrolet.
BODY STYLE
POPULAR AND STYLISH Other body styles
BUICK STYLE At $2,511, the Bel Air Convertible available included a
The Bel Airs was the epitome of budget-priced two-door hardtop.
Ventiports only lasted good taste, finding 47,562 eager
a couple of years. buyers. Low, sleek, and flashy, it
could almost out-glam the
contemporary Caddy ragtop.

ENGINE
Only 1,503 fuel-injected
Bel Airs were sold.
Chevrolet Bel Air (1957) 119

ORNAMENTATION
The rather clumsy bomb-
sight hood ornament
could be fairly described
as the 57 Bel Airs only
minor stylistic blemish.
The public liked it, though.

FRENCH DECORATION
Chevrolets fleur-de-lis, a
reminder of their French roots.
PERFECTLY FORMED
SAFETY MEASURES Immediately after it was introduced, it was rightly
Seat belts and shoulder hailed as a design classic. Elegant, sophisticated,
straps were available on and perfectly proportioned, the 57 Bel Air is one
the lengthy options list. of the finest postwar American autos of all.

LONGER MODEL
The 57 Bel Air was 212 in
(6.3 cm) longer than the 56 model.
120 Chevrolet Bel Air (1957)

A TRUE CLASSIC
The 57 Bel Air sums up Americas
most prosperous decade better
than any other car of the time.
Along with hula-hoops, drive-in
movies, and rock n roll, it has
become a Fifties icon. It was loved
then because it was stylish, solid,
sporty, and affordable, and its
loved now for more or less the
same reasons; plus it simply
drips with nostalgia.

INTERIOR
The distinctive two-tone interiors were POWER OPTION
a delight. Buyers could opt for a custom The Bel Air Convertible
color interior, power convertible top, could be equipped with an
tinted glass, vanity mirror, ventilated optional power-operated top.
seat pads, power windows, and even
a tissue dispenser.
SPEEDOMETER
Speedo read to 120, and
larger-engined models nearly
broke through the dial.

BEHIND THE WHEEL


The small-block Turbo-Fire V8 packed
185 bhp in base two-barrel trim and
270 bhp with the optional Rochester
four barrel. Ramjet injection added
a hefty $500 to the sticker price.
Chevrolet Bel Air (1957) 121

AIR STYLE
Chevrolet, like
every other US car
manufacturer at the
time, was eager to cash
in on the jet age, but in
reality this 55 Bel Air
four-door sedan looks
positively dumpy next to
the fighter plane.

RESTRAINED FINNAGE
Subtle rear fins are almost
demure compared with HIDDEN CAP
other contemporary efforts. In common with Lincoln and Cadillac,
Chevrolet incorporated the fuel caps
into the chrome molding at the rear
edge of the left tail fin.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible


(1957)
PRODUCTION 47,562 (1957)
BODY STYLE Two-door convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and box-
section chassis.
ENGINES 265cid, 283cid V8s.
POWER OUTPUT 162283 bhp
(283cid V8 fuel injected).
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual with
optional overdrive, optional two-speed
Powerglide automatic, and Turboglide.
SUSPENSION Front: independent
coil springs; Rear: leaf springs with
live axle.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 90120 mph
(145193 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 812 sec
A.F.C. 14 mpg (5 km/l)
122 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad (1957)

C H EVROLET Bel Air Nomad (1957)


IF YOU THOUGHT BMW AND MERCEDES were first with the sporting uptown
carry-all, think again. Chevrolet kicked off the genre as far back as 1955. The
Bel Air Nomad was a development of Harley Earls dream wagon based on the
Chevrolet Corvette; and although it looked like other 55 Bel Airs, the V8 Nomad
was the most expensive Chevy ever. But despite the fact that Motor Trend described
the 57 Nomad as one of the years most beautiful cars, with only two doors its
appeal was limited, its large glass area made the cabin too hot, and the tailgate
let in water. No surprise then that it was one of Chevys least popular models.
Sales never broke the magic 10,000 barrier and, by 1958, the worlds first
sportwagon, and now a milestone car, had been dropped.
ROOF FIRST
INTERIOR The Nomad was the first
Two-tone trim could be car to use nonstructural
STYLE REVIVAL complemented by power seat, corrugations on the roof.
The Nomad was essentially a tinted glass, and seat belts.
revival of the original Town
and Country theme and a
reaction against the utilitarian ENGINE
functionalism of the boxy Base unit was a 235cid
wooden wagons that had six; grunty 265cid V8
become ubiquitous in was available.
suburban America.
Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad (1957) 123

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad (1957)


PRODUCTION 6,103 (1957)
BODY STYLE Two-door station wagon.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINES 235cid six, 265cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 123283 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual with
overdrive, two-speed Powerglide automatic,
and optional Turboglide.
SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
IMMEDIATE HIT Rear: leaf springs.
Unveiled in January 1954, the DECORATED TAIL BRAKES Front and rear drums.
Motorama Nomadcreated by The classic Harley Earl MAXIMUM SPEED 90120 mph
(145193 km/h)
Chevy stylist Carl Rennerwas embellished tailgate was
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 811 sec
such a hit that a production version taken straight from the
A.F.C. 1519 mpg (5.36.7 km/l)
made it into the 55 brochures. Motorama Corvette and
was widely praised.

VETTE LINES
Motorama Vette roof line
was adapted for production
Nomads in just two days.
124 Chevrolet 3100 Stepside

C HEVROLET 3100 Stepside


CHEVY WAS ON A HIGH in the mid-Fifties. With the Vette, the Bel Air, and their
new V8, it was Americas undisputed top car manufacturer. A boundless optimism
percolated through all divisions, even touching such prosaic offerings as trucks.
And the definitive Chevy carry-all has to be the 57 pickup. It had not only that
four-stroke overhead-valve V8 mill, but also various options and a smart new
restyle. No wonder it was nicknamed a Cadillac in drag. Among the most
enduring of all American design statements, the 57 had clean, well-proportioned
lines, a minimum of chrome, and integrated fenders. Chevrolet turned the pickup
from a beast of burden into a personalized workhorse complete with all the
accessories of gracious living usually seen in a boulevard cruiser.

ENGINE WRAPAROUND SHIELD


The small-block V8 De Luxe models had a
produced 150 bhp and larger, wraparound
could cruise at 70 mph windshield, and two-tone
(113 km/h). From 55, all seats, door trims, and
Chevys used open-drive steering wheel.
instead of an enclosed
torque-tube driveline.

INTERIOR
The Stepside was as stylized inside as
out, with chrome switches, swing-out
ashtrays, and a V-shaped speedo.
Chevrolet 3100 Stepside 125

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Chevrolet 3100 Stepside (1957)


PRODUCTION Not available.
BODY STYLE Two-seater, short-bed
pickup.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINES 235cid six, 265cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 130145 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual
with optional overdrive, optional
TIMBER BED three-speed automatic.
Wooden bed floors helped to protect SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
the load area and added a quality feel Rear: leaf springs.
to Chevys Stepside. BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 80 mph
(129 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 17.3 sec
MULTIPLE CHOICES A.F.C. 17 mpg (6 km/l)
Chevys 57 pickups can be identified
by the new trapezoid grille and a
flatter hood than 56 models. Buyers
had a choice of short or long bed,
De Luxe or standard trim, and 11
exterior colors. Engines were the
235cid Thriftmaster six or the
265cid Trademaster V8.

STEP
The neat rear step allowed
access to the load area and
gave the Stepside its name.
126 Chevrolet Impala

C HEVROLET Impala
IN THE SIXTIES, unbridled consumerism began to wane. America turned away from
the politics of prosperity and, in deference, Chevrolet toned down its finny Impala.
The 59s gothic cantilevered batwings went, replaced by a much blunter rear deck.
WASP America was developing a social conscience and Fifties excess just wasnt
cool anymore. However, the 60 Impala was no shrinking violet. Tired of gorging on
gratuitous ornamentation, US drivers were offered a new theologyperformance.
Freeways were one long concrete loop, premium gas was cheap, and safety and
environmentalism were a nightmare still to come. For $333, the Sports Coupe could
boast a 348cid, 335 bhp Special Super Turbo-Thrust V8. The 59 Impala was riotous
and the 60 stylistically muddled, but within a year the unruliness would disappear
altogether. These crossover Chevrolets are landmark carsthey ushered in a new
decade that would change America and Americans forever.
RESTRAINED STYLING LUXURY EXTRAS NATIONS FAVORITE
The front of the Impala was meant Chevys trump card was an The Impala was Americas
to be quiet and calm and a million option list normally found best-selling model in 1960.
miles from the deranged dentistry on luxury cars, like air-
of mid-Fifties grille treatments. conditioning, power steering
The jet-fighter cockpit and quarter- and windows, and
panel missile ornaments were eerie six-way power seat.
portents of the coming decade
of military intervention.

WHEELS
At $15 a set,
wheel discs were
a cheap accessory.
Chevrolet Impala 127
SPACE STYLE
Chevys ad men sold the 60 Impala
on Space-Spirit-Splendor.

CLASSY REAR END


Triple taillights and a vertically ribbed
aluminum rear beauty panel helped to sober up
QUALITY RIDE the Impalas rear end. It was still a class act and
The Impalas coil spring suspension a lot glitzier than the Bel Airs plainer tail.
was superior to the leaf-spring rear
system found on rival cars.
IMMEDIATE SUCCESS COUPE BEAUTY
The Impala debuted in 58 as The Sport Coupe is the
a limited edition but went on prettiest Impala, with
to become the most popular appealing proportions and a
car in 60s America. sleek dartlike symmetry.

EXHAUST OPTION
Dumping all that lead were twin
exhausts, a bargain $19 option.
128 Chevrolet Impala

STEERING WHEEL
The sporty steering
wheel was inspired
by the Corvette.

INTERIOR
Inside, the Impala was loaded with
performance metaphor: central speedo,
four gauges, and a mock sports steering
wheel with crossed flags. This car
incorporates power windows and
dual Polaroid sun visors.

TRIPLE LIGHTS
The triple taillights had disappeared in 59
but returned for the 60 model; they went
on to become a classic Impala styling cue.
LENGTHY FRAME
Impalas were big, riding on a
119-in (302-cm) wheelbase.

TIRES
Slick whitewalls were
yours for just $36.

TAME FINS
The 60 Impala sported much tamer
Spread Wing fins that copied a seagull
in flight. They were an answer to
charges that the 59s uproarious rear
end was downright dangerous.
Chevrolet Impala 129

MODEL RANGE
Body styles were four-door SPECIFICATIONS
sports sedan, pillarless
sportcoupe, stock four-door MODEL Chevrolet Impala Sports Coupe
(1960)
sedan, and convertible.
PRODUCTION Not available.
BODY STYLE Two-door coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body, separate
chassis.
ENGINES 235cid straight six, 283cid,
348cid V8s.
POWER OUTPUT 135335 bhp (348cid
turbo V8).
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional four-speed manual, two-speed
Powerglide automatic, Turboglide automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: upper and lower
A-arms, coil springs; Rear: coil springs
with live axle.
BRAKES Four-wheel disc.
MAXIMUM SPEED 90135 mph
(145217 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 918 sec
A.F.C. 1216 mpg (4.25.7 km/l)

EXTRA BOOST
Impalas could be warmed up
considerably with some very
special engines.

RACING MODELS
The Impala impressed on circuits all over the
world. In 1961, some models were deemed hot
enough to run with European track stars like
the Jaguar Mark II, as driven by Graham Hill.

ENGINE
Two V8 engine options offered consumers seven
heady levels of power, from 170 to 335 horses.
Cheapskates could still specify the ancient Blue
Flame Six, which wheezed out a miserly 135 bhp.
Seen here is the 185 bhp, 283cid V8. Impalas
could be invigorated with optional Positraction,
heavy-duty springs, and power brakes.
130 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray (1966)

C HEVROLET Corvette Sting Ray (1966)


THE CHEVROLET CORVETTE IS AMERICAS native sports car. The plastic fantastic,
born in 1953, is still fantastic more than half a decade later. Along the way, in
1992, it notched up a million sales, and it is still hanging in there. Admittedly
it has mutated over the years, but it has stayed true to its roots
in one very important aspect. Other American sports car
contenders, like the Ford Thunderbird (see pages 27477),
soon abandoned any sporting pretensions, adding
weight and middle-aged girth, but not the Corvette.
All Corvette fans have their favorite eras: for some
it is the purity of the very first generation from
1953; others favor the glamorous 195662
models; but for many, the Corvette
came of age in 1963 with the
birth of the Sting Ray.

HIDDEN LIGHTS
Twin, pop-up headlights were
hidden behind electrically operated
covers; more than a gimmick, they
aided aerodynamic efficiency.

BADGING
Corvettes from 1963 to 1967 were
known as Sting Rays; the restyled 1968
model (see pages 14245) was renamed as
Stingray, one word. The checkered flag
on the front of the hood denotes CHASSIS
sporting lineage, while the red flag bears New chassis frame was
the GM logo and a fleur-de-lis. introduced in 1963.
Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray (1966) 131

INTERIOR
The Batmobile-style interior, with twin-
hooped dash, is carried over from
earlier Corvettes but updated in the
Sting Ray. The deep-dished, wood-
effect wheel comes close to the chest,
and power steering was an option.

SEATING
Seats were low and SPECIFICATIONS
flat, rather than
MODEL Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray
figure hugging. (196369)
PRODUCTION 118,964
BODY STYLES Two-door sports convertible
or fastback coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Fiberglass body; X-
bracedpressed-steel box-section chassis.
ENGINES OHV V8, 5359cc (327cid),
6495cc (396cid), 7008cc (427cid).
POWER OUTPUT 250375 bhp (5359cc),
390560 bhp (7008cc).
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual, optl.
four-speed manual or Powerglide auto.
SUSPENSION Independent all around.
Front: Unequal-length wishbones with
coil springs; Rear: Transverse leaf.
BRAKES Drums to 1965, then discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 152 mph (245 km/h,
7008cc).
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.4 sec (7008cc)
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 13.1 sec (7008cc)
A.F.C. 916 mpg (35.7 km/l)

A MITCHELL CLASSIC
The Sting Ray was a bold design
breakthrough, giving concrete expression to
many of the ideas of new GM styling chief,
Bill Mitchell. He reputedly regarded the 1963
BRAKES Sting Ray as his finest piece of work. More
In 1965 the Sting Ray got four-wheeled than half of all production was in convertible
disc brakes in place of all-around drums. roadsters, for which a hardtop was an option.
132 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray (1966)

OVERHEAD VIEW ENGINE OPTIONS


You can tell this is a small block engine Sting Rays came in three engine sizes
the hood power bulge was widened to naturally all V8swith a wide range of
accommodate the big block unit. Three- power options from 250 bhp to more than
speed manual transmission was standard, twice that. This featured car is a 1966 Sting
with two-speed automatic and three types Ray with small block 5359cc V8 and
of manual four-speed shift optional. Holley four-barrel carb.
Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray (1966) 133

LIMITED TRUNK
Fuel tank and spare
tire took up most of
the trunk space.

HARDTOP OPTION
Until 1963, all Corvettes were open roadsters; but
with the arrival of the Sting Ray, a fixed-head coupe
was now also available. The distinctive two-piece back
window used on the 1963 model makes it the most
sought-after fixed-head Sting Ray.

SIDE EXHAUST
Aluminum strip concealed
side-mounted exhaust option.
134 Chevrolet Corvair Monza

C HEVROLET Corvair Monza


BY 1960, SALES OF DINOSAURS were down, small-car imports were up, and Detroit
finally listened to a market screaming for economy compacts. Then along came
Chevrolets adventurous answer to the Volkswagen Beetle, the pretty, rear-engined
Corvair, which sold for half the price of a Ford Thunderbird. But problems soon
arose. GMs draconian cost-cutting meant that a crucial $15 suspension stabilizing
bar was omitted, and early Corvairs handled like pigs. The suspension was redesigned
in 65, but it was too late. Bad news also came in the form of Ralph Naders book
Unsafe at Any Speed, which lambasted the Corvair. The new Ford Mustang, which had
become the hot compact, didnt help either. By 1969, it was all over for the Corvair.
GMs stab at downsizing had been a disaster.
SIDE MIRROR RAGTOP NUMBERS
IMPRESSING THE PRESS Shatter-resistant side Only 26,000 convertibles
After very few styling changes mirror came as standard. were sold in 65.
for the first five years, the new
body design for 65 had a heavy MAINLY AUTOMATIC
Italian influence with smooth- Despite the publics interest
flowing, rounded lines that in economy, 53 percent
impressed the automotive press. of all Corvairs had
Car and Driver magazine called it automatic transmission.
the best of established foreign
and domestic coachwork.

WHEELS
Wire wheel covers
were a pricey
$59 option.
Chevrolet Corvair Monza 135

TOP INTERIOR COLORS


Most tops were manually A choice of eight interior
operated and stowed colors included black,
behind a fabric tonneau, fawn, and saddle.
but this model has the
$54 power top option.

COLORS REAR ENGINED


Buyers could choose Engine lived here
from 15 exterior colors, 95 bhp was dire,
a number of which were 110 fun, and 140
only available on the wild. Turbocharged
Corvair Monza. versions could crack
INITIAL SUCCESS 115 mph (185 km/h).
The new longer, wider, and lower Corvair
initially sold well but floundered from 1966
REAR SEAT in the face of the rival Ford Mustang and
The rear seat folded down Naders damning book.
in the Sport Coupe and SUSPENSION
Sport Sedan models but The post-65 Corvair had
not in the convertible. Corvette-type fully
independent rear suspension
via upper and lower control
arms and coil springs.

EXHAUST
Long-life exhaust system
consisted of aluminized silencer.
136 Chevrolet Corvair Monza

STORAGE SPACE
Rear-engined format
meant that storage
space under the
hood was massive.

INTERIOR
The all-vinyl interior was very European, with
bucket seats and telescopic steering column.
The restrained steering wheel and deep-set
instruments could have come straight out of a
BMW. The dials were recessed to reduce glare
and deep-twist carpeting added an air of luxury
to the cockpit. Options on offer included a
windshield-mounted automatic compass and
a hand-rubbed walnut steering wheel.

BLOCK FEATURES TIRES


All Corvairs had an White sidewalls
automatic choke and could be ordered
aluminum cylinder heads. foran extra $29.

ENGINE
Corvair buyers had a choice of alloy, air-
cooled, horizontal sixes. The base unit
was a 164cid block with four Rochester
carbs developing 140 bhp. The hot
turbocharged motors were able to push
out a more respectable 180 bhp.

POWER READING
The 140 badge
represented the
Corvairs power output.
Chevrolet Corvair Monza 137

END OF THE LINE


By the end of 68, sales of the SPECIFICATIONS
handsome Monza Coupe were
MODEL Chevrolet Corvair Monza (1966)
down to just 6,800 units, and
PRODUCTION 60,447 (1966, Monza only)
GM decided to pull the plug
BODY STYLES Two- and four-door, four-
in May 69. Those who seater coupe and convertible.
had bought a 69 CONSTRUCTION Steel unitary body.
Corvair were given ENGINES 164cid flat sixes.
a certificate worth POWER OUTPUT 95140 bhp.
$150 off any TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
other 6970 optional four-speed manual, and two-speed
Chevrolet. Powerglide automatic.
SUSPENSION Front and rear coil springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 105120 mph
(169193 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 1115.2 sec
A.F.C. 20 mpg (7 km/l)

PRODUCTION
1965 model year production peaked
at 205,000 units. Fords Mustang
did half a million in the same year.

FIRST MONZAS
The early Corvair Monzas, with deluxe trim
and automatic transmission, were a big hit. In
1961, over 143,000 were sold, which amounted
to over half the grand Corvair total.
WINDOWS
Side windows were ANTENNA
made of specially Power-operated rear
curved glass. antenna was an option.
138 Chevrolet Camaro RS Convertible

C HEVROLET Camaro RS Convertible


RUMORS THAT GENERAL MOTORS had at last come up with something to steal
sales from Fords hugely successful Mustang (see pages 27885) swept through the
American auto industry in the spring of 1966. Code-named Panther, the Camaro was
announced to newspaper reporters on June 29, 1966, touching down in showrooms
on September 21. The Pony Car building-block philosophy was simple: sell a basic
machine and allow the customer to add their own extras. The trouble was that the
Camaro had an options list as arcane and complicated as a lawyers library. From
Strato-Ease headrests to Comfort-Tilt steering wheel, the Camaro buyer really was
spoiled for choice. But it worked. Buyers ordered the Rally Sport equipment package
for their stock Camaros, and suddenly they were kings of the street. Go-faster, twin-
lined body striping, hidden headlights, and matte black taillight bezels were all
calculated to enhance the illusion of performance pedigree. Especially if he or
she could not afford the real thingthe hot Camaro SS.

CLEAN STYLING PRODUCTION SOURCES


The market accepted the Camaro as a solid First-generation Camaros were
response to the Ford Mustang. Its styling mainly built in Norwood, Ohio,
was cleaner, more European, and less boxy, but some also came out of the
and it drove better than the Ford. Despite Van Nuys plant in California.
all this, Camaro sales were still considerably
less than the Mustang.

NOSE JOB
The lengthened wheelbase
created a big frontal overhang.
Chevrolet Camaro RS Convertible 139

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Chevrolet Camaro RS Convertible


(first generation, 196770)
PRODUCTION 10,675 (1967, RS), 195,765
(1967, coupe), and 25,141 (1967, convertible).
BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater
RACING PEDIGREE convertible.
Chevys Camaro was the chosen pace car for both the CONSTRUCTION Steel monocoque.
1967 and 69 Indy 500s. Some of the production ENGINE 327cid small block V8.
replicas were convertibles. POWER OUTPUT 275 bhp at 4800 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Three- or four-speed
manual, two- or three-speed auto.
SUSPENSION Independent front,
RAISING THE ROOF rear leaf springs.
The designers had created a sleek BRAKES Drums with optional power-
assisted front discs.
convertiblewhen the Camaro
MAXIMUM SPEED 110 mph (177 km/h)
raised its roof, the purity of line
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.3 sec
was not disturbed.
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 25.1 sec
A.F.C. 18 mpg (6.4 km/l)
REAR SPACE
GM liked to think that three
passengers could be seated in the
rear when in reality only two RS PINSTRIPING
could be seated comfortably. Stick-on pinstriping helped
flatter the Camaros curves.

LIMITED STORAGE
For a car this big, the trunk
was incredibly small.
140 Chevrolet Camaro RS Convertible

LIMITED NUMBERS
The Convertible RS was rare in 1967
with only 10,675 units produced.

SEATING
Strato-bucket front seats came as
standard, but Strato-back bench
seat could be specified as an extra.

RS REAR FEATURES
All-red taillight lenses with black bezels
were an RS feature. Another part of the RS
package was that reversing lights were
moved to the rear valance panel. The RS
emblem was inscribed on the fuel cap.

COLORED VINYL
Color-keyed all-vinyl trim was
a standard Camaro feature.

INTERIOR
Dash was the usual period fare, with acres
of plastic and mock wood-grain veneer.
This model is equipped with the optional
four-speed manual gearbox.
Chevrolet Camaro RS Convertible 141

RACING OPTION
Trans Am Racing spawned the Z28
Camaro, a thinly-veiled street racer,
designed to take on the Shelby Mustang.
Top speed was 124 mph (200 km/h) and
060 came up in 6.7 seconds. Only
available as a coupe, it was designed for
those who put speed before comfort so
could not be ordered with automatic
transmission or air-conditioning.

ENGINE
The basic V8 power plant for Camaros was the
trusty small block cast-iron 327cid lump, which,
with a bit of fine-tuning, evolved into the 350cid
unit of the desirable SS models. Compression ratio
was 8.8:1, and it produced 210 bhp.

MIRROR CHANGE
By 1968 the circular side
mirrors had been replaced
by rectangular ones.

POWER RATING
American horsepower was all about cubic
inches (cid), not cubic centimeters (cc) as
in Europe, and the RS proudly badged its
327 cubic inch capacity.
142 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (1969)

C HEVROLET Corvette Stingray (1969)


THE AUTOMOTIVE PRESS REALLY lashed into the 69 Shark, calling it a piece of junk,
a low point in Corvette history, and the beginning of a new trend toward the image-
and-gadget car. Instead of testing the Vette, Car and Driver magazine simply recited
a litany of glitches and pronounced it too dire to drive, sending ripples of rage
through GM. To be frank, the 69 was not the best Vette ever. Styling was boisterous,
trunk space vestigial, the seats had you sliding all over the place, and the general build
was shoddy. Two great engines saved the day, the 327cid and three incarnations of the
big-block 427. With the hottest L88 version hitting 60 mph (96 km/h) in five-and-a-
half seconds and peaking at 160 mph (257 km/h), these were cars that were race-
ready from the showroom floor. Despite the vitriol, the public liked their image,
gadgets, and grunt, buying 38,762 of them, a production record unbroken for the
next six yearsempirical proof that, occasionally, car journalists do talk hot air.

AGGRESSIVE POSTURE
The Stingray filled its wheelarches very STINGRAY BADGE VENTILATION
convincingly with an aggressive, menacing Chevy stopped calling their Vette Trim liners for side
presence. Any similarity to the European the Sting Ray in 1968 but fender slots only
sports cars that inspired the original thought better of it in 69, appeared in the
Corvettes had by now withered away, to be reinstating the name as one word. 69 model year.
replaced by a new, threatening personality.
In the annals of automotive history, there
is no car with more evil looks than this
196872 generation Corvette.

EXHAUST
The side-mounted exhaust
option was withdrawn after 69
because of excessive heat and noise.
Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (1969) 143

WINDOW RACK
Rear window Rear rack helped since
demister was there wasnt much
an option. room in the trunk.

WHEELS RAD VETTE


Wheel-rim width A four-wheel-drive,
increased to 8 in mid-engined
(20 cm) in 1969, prototype Vette
wide enough to was developed but
climb walls. canceled in 1969.

NEW DIRECTIONS
The 69 Stingray was styled by GMs Dave Hols and owed
little to the original Sting Ray. But this was the dawn of
the 70s, and while it might not have had the purest shape,
it reeked muscle from every vent.

ANTENNA
AM/FM radio option
was offered for the first
time in 1968.

TIRES
Tires were F70x15s and
could be specified in a
number of different styles
including with white lettering.
144 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (1969)

SHARK-BASED DESIGN
GM chief Bill Mitchell was an admirer of
sharksthey are exciting to look atand
wanted to design a car with similar lines. In
1960 a prototype Mako Shark was made, and
the end result was the 1963 Sting Ray. A
further prototype in 1966, the Mako Shark II,
produced the 196872 generation of Stingray,
but the Vette collided with the energy crisis
and would never be the same again.

ENGINE WINDSHIELD
If the stock 427 was not enough, there
Soft Ray tinted glass
was always the 500 bhp ZL1, a 170 mph
was an optional extra.
(274 km/h) racing option package. To
discourage boy racers, no heater was
installed in the ZL1; only two were ever
sold to retail customers.

NOTABLE YEAR
1969 saw the 250,000th Vette
come off the production line; it
was a gold convertible.

BIG DADDY
With the 427 unit, the Vette was
the biggest, heaviest, fastest, ENGINE OPTION
thirstiest, cheapest, and most The first all-aluminum Corvette
powerful sports car on the market. block was offered in 1969.
Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (1969) 145

ROOF PANEL
Half of the 69 production were coupes
with twin lift-off roof panels and a
removable windowmaking this
Stingray almost a convertible.
WIPER COVER
68 and 69 Vettes had a
vacuum-operated lid which
covered the windshield wipers
when not in use. It was,
though, a styling gimmick
which malfunctioned with
depressing regularity.
INTERIOR
A major drawback of the 69 was its sharply
raked seats, which prevented the traditional
Corvette arm-out-of-the-window pose. While
the telescopic tilt column and leather trim were
extras, the glove compartment had been
introduced as standard in 1968.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (1969)


PRODUCTION 38,762 (1969)
BODY STYLES Two-seater sports
and convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Fiberglass, separate
chassis.
ENGINES 327cid, 427cid V8s.
POWER OUTPUT 300500 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional four-speed manual, three-speed
Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: upper and lower A-
arms, coil springs; Rear: independent with
transverse strut and leaf springs.
BRAKES Front and rear discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 117170 mph
(188274 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.77.7 sec
HEADLIGHTS A.F.C. 10 mpg (3.5 km/l)
The 69 retained hidden headlights,
but now worked off a vacuum.
146 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

C HEVROLET Monte Carlo


NOW THE WORLDS LARGEST PRODUCER of motor vehicles, Chevrolet kicked off
the Seventies with their Ford Thunderbird chaser, the 1970 Monte Carlo. Hailed as
action and elegance in a sporty personal luxury package, it was only available as a
coupe and came with power front discs, Elm-Burl dash-panel inlays, and a choice of
engines that ranged from the standard 350cid V8 to the Herculean SS 454. At $3,123
in base form, it was cheap compared to the $5,000 needed to buy a Thunderbird. But
the T-Bird had become as urbane as Dean Martin, and the Monte couldnt match the
Fords lan. Even so, despite a six-week strike that lost Chevrolet 100,000 sales, over
145,000 Monte Carlos found buyers which, compared to a mere 40,000 T-Birds,
made Chevys new personal luxury confection a monster hit.

INTERIOR
SHARED CHASSIS The Monte Carlos cabin was
The Monte Carlo used the same Chevrolets most luxurious for the
platform as the redesigned 1969 year, but was criticized for having
Pontiac Grand Prix. Stylistically, the limited front and rear legroom.
long hood and short trunk promised
performance and power. The single HIDDEN ANTENNA
headlights were mounted in square- The radio antenna was
shaped housings, and the grid-textured hidden in the windshield.
grille was simple and unadorned.

WHEEL TRIMS
The smooth-centered
wheel trims were not
popular with buyers and,
in 71, chromed mock-
wire wheels were offered.
Chevrolet Monte Carlo 147

SPEEDY UNIT SPECIFICATIONS


The massive 454
MODEL Chevrolet Monte Carlo (1970)
block made it a
PRODUCTION 145,975 (1970)
favorite with short-
BODY STYLE Two-door, five-seater coupe.
circuit stock car racers.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINES 350cid, 400cid, 454cid V8s.
POWER OUTPUT 250360 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional two-speed Powerglide automatic,
Turbo Hydra-Matic three-speed automatic.
HEADLIGHTS SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
In 72, vertical Rear: leaf springs.
parking lights BRAKES Front and rear drums.
were placed MAXIMUM SPEED 115132 mph
inboard of the (185211 km/h)
ENGINE headlights. 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 814 sec
The potent SS 454 option was a modest $147 A.F.C. 1520 mpg (5.37 km/l)
and could catapult the Monte Carlo to
60 mph (96 km/h) in less than eight seconds. PILLAR
Prodigious rear pillar
made city parking VINYL ROOF
literally hit-or-miss. Black vinyl top was a $120
option. Buyers could also choose
blue, dark gold, green, or white.

REAR STABILITY
Another option available,
and used on this car, was
rear antisway bars.
148 Chevrolet Nova SS

C HEVROLET Nova SS
THE NOVA NAME FIRST APPEARED in 1962 as the top-line model of Chevrolets new
Falcon-buster compact, the Chevy II. Evolving into a line in its own right, by 71 the
Novas Super Sport (SS) package was one of the smallest muscle cars ever fielded
by Detroit. In an era when performance was on the wane, the diminutive banshee
found plenty of friends among the budget drag-racing set. That strong 350cid V8 just
happened to be a small-block Chevy, perfect for all those fine-tuned manifolds, carbs,
headers, and distributors courtesy of a massive tuning industry. Some pundits even
went so far as hailing the Nova SS as the Seventies equivalent of the 57 Chevy. Frisky,
tough, and impudent, Chevys giant killer could easily double the legal speed limit, and
the SS was a Nova to die for. Quick and rare, only 7,016 71 Novas sported the magic
SS badge. Performance iron died a death in 72, making these last-of-the-line 71s
perfect candidates for the Chevy Muscle Hall of Fame.

DIFFERENT STYLING
Handsome, neat, and chaste, the Nova was a
new breed of passenger car for the Seventies.
Advertised as the Not Too Small Car, it
looked a lot like a scaled-down version of
the Chevelle and debuted in this form
in 1968 to rave reviews.

SAFETY REFLECTORS
Side markerlights were forced
on the Nova after federal
safety legislation was passed.
Chevrolet Nova SS 149

AIR CON
Air conditioning was SPECIFICATIONS
an extra-cost option.
MODEL Chevrolet Nova SS (1971)
PRODUCTION 7,016 (1971)
BODY STYLE Two-door, five-seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel unitary body.
ENGINE 350cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 245 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional four-speed manual, and
LIGHTS three-speed automatic.
Amber plastic SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
light lenses were ENGINE Rear: leaf springs.
new for 71. The two- or four-barrel 350cid V8 BRAKES Front discs and rear drums.
ran on regular fuel and pushed out MAXIMUM SPEED 120 mph (193 km/h)
INTERIOR 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.2 sec
270 ponies. At one point, Chevrolet
Nova features included front A.F.C. 20 mpg (7 km/l)
planned to squeeze the massive
armrests, antitheft steering-
454cid V8 from the Chevelle into
wheel-column lock, and
the Nova SS, but regrettably
ignition key alarm system.
dropped the idea.

STYLING BLOCK
The Novas shell would last for In 71, the option of a four-
11 years and was shared with cylinder block was withdrawn on
Buick, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac. the Nova; less than one percent of
70 Nova buyers chose a four.

ALLOYS
The handsome
Sportmag five-
spoke alloys were
an $85 option.
150 Chevrolet Camaro SS396

C HEVROLET Camaro SS396


AFTER A SUCCESSFUL DEBUT IN 67, the Camaro hit the deck in 72. Sluggish sales and
a 174-day strike at the Lordstown, Ohio, plant meant Camaros were in short supply,
and only 68,656 were produced that year. Worse still, 1,100 half-finished cars sitting
on the assembly lines couldnt meet the impending 73 bumper impact laws, so GM
was forced to junk all of them. There were some dark mutterings in GM boardrooms.
Should the Camaro be canned? 1972 also saw the Super Sport (SS) package bow out.
Road & Track magazine mourned its passing, hailing the SS396 as the best car built
in America in 1971. But the early Seventies were a bad trip for the automobile, and
the Camaro would rise again; five years later it had risen from the ashes and was
selling over a quarter of a million units. This is one American icon that refuses to die.

STYLING
DURABLE DESIGN The Camaro was designed using
The Camaro design survived an computer technology; the smooth,
incredible 11 years without any serious SS NUMBERS horizontal surfaces blended
alteration. It lured eyes and dollars away Only 6,562 Camaros together in an aerodynamically
from the traditional European had the SS equipment functional shape.
performance machines and became package in 1972 out of
one of the most recognized American total Chevrolet sales for
GTs of the Seventies. In addition to the the year of 2,151,076.
SS package, Camaros could also be
specified in Rally Sport (RS) and Z-28
performance guise.

EXTRA GRIP
You could buy spray-
on liquid Tire Chain
to improve traction.
Chevrolet Camaro SS396 151

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Chevrolet Camaro SS396 (1972)


PRODUCTION 6,562 (SS, 1972)
BODY STYLE Two-door coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINES 350cid, 396cid, 402cid V8s (SS).
POWER OUTPUT 240330 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional four-speed manual, and automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
Rear: leaf springs.
BRAKES Front power discs and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 125 mph (201 km/h)
NASCAR RACER 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.5 sec
Chevy spent big bucks to become performance A.F.C. 15 mpg (5.3 km/l)
heavyweights, and the Camaro, along with the Chevelle,
was a successful racing model in the early 70s.

BODY CREASE REAR SPOILER


Perfectly straight top- The SS and Z-28
to-bottom waistline packages got a rear-deck
works well. spoiler; the RS did not.

REFLECTOR
This was the age of safety
legislation requiring features
such as this on new cars.
152 Chevrolet Camaro SS396

INTERIOR COMFORT OPTIONS


Interiors were generally Special instrumentation,
quite basic. Revisions for center console, and
72 were limited and Comfort-Tilt wheel were
mostly confined to convenience options.
the door panels, which
now included map
and coin holders under
the door handles. The
high-back seats are
a clue that this is a
post-70 model.

UNIQUE SS CONCEALED WIPERS


Unlike other performance packs, the SS SS and RS packages
option gave the car a whole new look. The included hidden
bolt-on front end was different, and included windshield wipers.
sidelights up alongside the headlights and
recessed grille. SS spec usually included
mini quarter-bumpers
rather than the
full-width item
seen here.
Chevrolet Camaro SS396 153

COOL INTERIOR
Air-conditioning for
the Camaro cost an
additional $397.

COMPUTER-DESIGNED
The Camaro was designed
using computer technology,
SS PANEL with smooth horizontal
The black rear surfaces blended together in
SUPER BLOCK OPTION panel was unique an aerodynamically functional
WHEELS The legendary 454cid V8, to the SS396. shape. And individuality and
Camaros came with a mind-blowing power came cheap in 72
with five wheel- 425 bhp, was definitely the SS package cost just $306.
trim options. not for the fainthearted.
ENGINE
Camaros came with a range
of engines to suit all
ENGINE IDEA pocketbooks and for all
A 400cid engine types of drivers. The entry-
was planned level V8 was just $96 more
for mid-year than the plodding straight
introduction but six. The block featured here
it never made is the lively 396cid V8.
the Camaro. Under 5,000 owners chose a
six compared to nearly
64,000 who opted for
one of the V8 options.
154 Chrysler Imperial

C HRYSLER Imperial
IN 1950 CHRYSLER WAS CELEBRATING its silver jubilee, an anniversary year with
a sting in its tail. The Office of Price Stabilization had frozen car prices, there was
a four-month strike, and serious coal and steel shortages were affecting the industry.
The 50 Imperial was a Chrysler New Yorker with a special roof and interior trim
from the Derham Body Company. The jewels in Chryslers crown, the Imperials
were meant to lock horns with the best of Cadillac, Packard, and Lincoln. With
Ausco-Lambert disc brakes, Prestomatic transmission, and a MoPar compass, they
used the finest technology Chrysler could muster. The trouble was only 10,650
Imperials drove out of the door in 1950, the hemi-head V8 wouldnt arrive until
the next year, buyers were calling it a Chrysler rather than an Imperial, and that
frumpy styling looked exactly like what it wasyesterdays dinner warmed up again.

BEASTS OF THE ROAD WINDSHIELD


Bulky, rounded Chryslers were The windshield was still old-
some of the biggest cars on the fashioned two-piece flat glass,
road in 1950. The Imperials had which made the Imperial
Cadillac-style grilles, and the Crown look rather antiquated.
Imperial was a long limousine built
to rival the Cadillac 75.

WHEELS
The Imperial had
Safety-Rim wheels.
Chrysler Imperial 155

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Chrysler Imperial (1950)


PRODUCTION 10,650 (1950)
BODY STYLE Four-door sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINE 323cid straight-eight.
POWER OUTPUT 135 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Prestomatic
semiautomatic.
SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
Rear: live axle.
BRAKES Front and rear drums, optional
INTERIOR front discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 100 mph (161 km/h)
Chryslers interiors were as restrained and conservative
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 13 sec
asthe people who drove them. Turn-key ignition
A.F.C. 16 mpg (5.7 km/l)
replaced push-button in 1950, which was also
thefirstyear of electric windows.

FUEL CAP
The Imperial was
able to manage
16mpg (5.7 km/l).

LONGER FENDERS
Rear fenders got longer
for 1950, and lights
were now nicely faired in.
156 Chrysler Imperial

BIGGER BLOCK WASHERS


180 bhp hemi-head Windshield washers were
V8 wouldnt arrive available as an option.
till next year.

ENGINE
The inline L-head eight developed 135
bhp and had a cast-iron block with
five main bearings. The carburetor was
a Carter single barrel, and Prestomatic
automatic transmission with fluid drive
came as standard.

SUSPENSION
Imperials incorporated
Safety-Level ride.

SEMI-AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
The semi-automatic gearbox allowed
the driver to use a clutch to pull away, LENGTH
with the automatic taking over as Wheelbase measured 131!2 in
the car accelerated. Imperials had (334 cm), which was 14 in (36 cm)
a waterproof ignition system. shorter than the Crown Imperial.
Chrysler Imperial 157

REAR WINDOW
New Clearbac rear
window used three pieces
of glass that were
divided by chrome strips.

LATE ARRIVAL
The celebrated designer Virgil Exner joined
Chrysler in 1949 but arrived too late to
improve the looks of the moribund Imperial.
Despite Chryslers problems, 1950 was a
bumper year for American car production
with the industry wheeling out a
staggering 6,663,461 units.

TOP CAR
Imperials were seen as the cream of
the Chrysler crop. Advertising for the
Crown Imperial purred that it was
the aristocrat of cars.

IMPERIAL PRICING
The Imperial four-door sedan cost $3,055
before optional extras were added. The
most expensive model in Chryslers 1950
line was the eight-passenger Crown Imperial
sedan, which cost $5,334. In keeping with
its establishment image, an Imperial station
WEIGHT wagon was never offered. One claim to
The Imperial weighed just under fame was that MGM Studios used an
1,000 lb (454 kg) less than Imperial-based mobile camera car in many
the Crown Imperial. of their film productions.
158 Chrysler New Yorker

C HRYSLER New Yorker


WHY CANT THEY MAKE CARS that look this good anymore? The 57 New Yorker was
the first and finest example of Chryslers Forward Look policy. With the average
American production worker earning $82.32 a week, the $4,259 four-door hardtop
was both sensationally good-looking and sensationally expensive. The cars glorious
lines seriously alarmed Chryslers competitors, especially since the styling was awarded
two gold medals, the suspension was by newfangled torsion bar, and muscle was
courtesy of one of the most respected engines in the worldthe hemi-head Fire
Power. Despite this, the most glamorous cars of a generation cost Chrysler a
whopping $300 million, and sales were disappointing. One problem was a propensity
for rust, along with shabby fit and finish; another was low productivityonly a
measly 10,948 four-door hardtop models were produced. Even so, the New Yorker
was certainly one of the most beautiful cars Chrysler ever made.
ONE MANS SHOW MIRROR
Chrysler stunned the world with their Side mirror was an
dartlike shapes of 1957. The unified AUTO FIRST optional extra.
design was created by the mind of TorqueFlite automatic
one manVirgil Exnerrather than transmission was
by a committee, and it shows. Those first seen this year.
prodigious rear fenders sweep up
gracefully, harmonizing well with the
gently tapering roof line.

SUSPENSION
Torsion-Aire ride
provided exceptional
handling.
Chrysler New Yorker 159

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Chrysler New Yorker (1957)


PRODUCTION 34,620 (all body styles, 1957)
BODY STYLE Four-door, six-seater hardtop.
CONSTRUCTION Monocoque.
ENGINE 392cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 325 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed TorqueFlite
automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: A-arms and
longitudinal torsion bar; Rear: semi-elliptic
leaf springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 115 mph
SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE (185 km/h)
Rather than looking overstyled, the rear end and deck are 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 12.3 sec
actually quite restrained. The licence plate sits neatly in its A.F.C. 13 mpg (4.6 km/l)
niche, the tail pipes are completely concealed, the bumper is
understated, and even the rear lights are not too heavy-handed.

WINNING SHAPE
The New Yorkers shape was so universally
acclaimed that it was awarded two Grand
Prix DHonneur and two gold medals by
the Industrial Designers Institute.

STLYISH ORNAMENTATION
The New Yorker had few styling
excesses. Even the gratuitous slashes on
the rear wing did not look over the top.
160 Chrysler New Yorker

NO SPARE
The tires were guaranteed not to
deflate, so no spare was offered.

SUBTLE TOUCH EXHAUST


Considering the excesses of the era, the New Dual exhaust was
TIRES Yorkers low belt line, huge expanse of glass, one of the options
Captive-Aire tires were and slinky profile are commendably subtle. In available.
available, with promises fact, if it wasnt for those outrageous fins,
that they wouldnt let Chryslers dreamboat might have ended up in
themselves down. the Museum of Modern Art.

INTERIOR
New Yorkers had everything. Equipment
included power windows, a six-way
power seat, Hi-Way Hi-Fi phonograph,
Electro-Touch radio, rear seat speaker,
Instant Air heater, handbrake warning
system, Air-Temp air-conditioning, and
tinted glassan altogether impressive
array of features for a 1957 automobile.
There are still many modern luxury cars
that dont have the same comprehensive
specification of the Fifties New Yorker.
Chrysler New Yorker 161

ENGINE
The top-of-the-line
model had a top-of-the-
line motor. The hemi-
head was the largest
production unit available
in 1957. Bore and stroke
were increased and
displacement raised by
nearly 10 percent. It was
efficient, ran on low-
octane gas, and could
be highly tuned.

OTHER MODELS WAGON VERSION


The three other model lines for One of the other models in the
Chrysler in 57 were the 1957 New Yorker lineup was a
Windsor, Saratoga, and 300C. Town and Country Wagon, which
was driven by the same impressive
Fire Power V8 found
in the sedan and
hardtops.
162 Chrysler 300F (1960)

C HRYSLER 300F (1960)


RED HOT AND RAMBUNCTIOUS is how Chrysler sold the 300F. It may be one of the
strangest slogans of any American automaker, but the 300F really was red hot and a
serious flying machine that could better 140 mph (225 km/h). The rambunctious refers
to the ram-air induction on the bad-boy 413cid wedge-head V8. Ram tuning had long
been a way of raising torque and horsepower for drag racing, and it gave the 300F a
wicked performance persona. One of Virgil Exners happier designs, the 300F of 60
had unibody construction, a French Pont-A-Mousson four-speed gearbox, and front
seats that swiveled toward you when you opened the doors. It also boasted an electro-
luminescent instrument panel and Chryslers best styling effort since 1957. But at
$5,411, it was no surprise that only 964 coupes found buyers. Nevertheless, it bolstered
Chryslersimage, and taught them plenty of tuning tricks for the muscle-car wars that
were revving up just around the corner.
DOOR ACTION
Opening the door initiated the
POWER AND GLORY NONINLINE CARBS self-activating swiveling seats.
The 300F was one of Americas most The alternative carburetor
powerful cars, and a souped-up version positioning gave a steady
recorded a one-way run of an amazing buildup of power along
189 mph (304 km/h) on the Bonneville thetorque curve.
salt flats. But despite the prodigious
performance, it was deliberately
understated compared with many
contemporary Detroit offerings.

TIRES
Nylon whitewalls
came as standard.
Chrysler 300F (1960) 163

NICKNAME
The phrase beautiful
brutes was coined to
describe the 300 Series.

FINE FINS
You could argue that the
300Fs fins started at the front
of the car and traveled along
the side, building up to lethal,
daggerlike points above the
exquisitely sculptured taillights.

PILLARLESS STYLE LIMITED TIME


With the window rolled Within two years fins would
down the 300F had a disappear completely on the
pillarless look. Chrysler letter series 300.

EXTRA GRIP
This particular model has
Sure-Grip differential,
a $52 option.
164 Chrysler 300F (1960)

DASHBOARD
SPECIFICATIONS The Astra-Dome
instrumentation was
MODEL Chrysler 300F (1960) illuminated at night by electro-
PRODUCTION 1,212 (1960, both luminescent light, giving a soft,
body styles)
eerie glow that shone through
BODY STYLES Two-door coupe
and convertible. the translucent markings on
CONSTRUCTION Steel unitary body. thegauges. It was technically
ENGINE 413cid V8. very daring and boasted six
POWER OUTPUT 375400 bhp. different laminations of plastic,
TRANSMISSION Three-speed push-button vitreous, and phosphor.
automatic, optional four-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Front: torsion bars;
TACHOMETER
Rear: leaf springs. TINTED WINDOW Center-mounted tachometer
BRAKES Front and rear drums. Solex tinted glass was a came as standard.
MAXIMUM SPEED 140 mph (225 km/h) $43 optional extra.
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.1 sec
A.F.C. 12 mpg (4.2 km/l)

DANGER FINS
The 300Fs razor-sharp
rear fins were criticized by
Ralph Nader in his book
Unsafe at Any Speed as
potentially lethal.

THE ONLY BLEMISH


The much-criticized fake
spare-tire embellishment
onthe trunk was variously
described as a toilet seat
ortrash can lid. This
questionable rear deck
treatment was officially
known as Flight-Sweep and
was also available on other
Chryslers. Possibly the 300Fs
only stylistic peccadillo, it was
dropped in 61.
Chrysler 300F (1960) 165
MIRROR
QUIRKY SEAT SYSTEM Side mirror
Self-activated swiveling seats was remote-
were new for 1960 and pivoted controlled.
outward automatically when
either door was opened.
Its ironic that the burly
300Fs typical owner
was likely to be a
flabby 40-year-old.

ANTENNA
Power antenna was
a $43 option; this
car also has the
Golden Tone
radio ($124).

SERIOUS STORAGE
The two-door shape meant that the rear deck was the size
of Indiana, and the cavernous trunk was large enough to
hold four wheels and tires.
166 Chrysler 300L (1965)

C HRYSLER 300L (1965)


BACK IN 55, CHRYSLER DEBUTED their mighty 300 Letter Car. The most powerful
automobile of the year, the 300C kicked off a new genre of gentlemans hot rod that
was to last for more than a decade. Chrysler cleverly marked annual model changes
with letters, running from the 300B in 1956 all the way throughthe letter I
exceptedto this 300L in 1965. And 65 was the swan-song year for the Letter
Series speciality car. The 300L sat on high-performance rubber and suspension and
was powered by a high-output 413cid 360 bhp mill breathing through a four-barrel
Carter carb. By the mid-Sixties, though, the game had changed and Chrysler was
pumping its money into muscle-car iron like the Charger and GTX, an area of the
market where business was brisk. The 300L was the last survivor of an era when the
Madison Avenue advertising men were still trying to persuade us that an automobile
as long as a freight train could also be a sports car.

NEW DESIGN CHIEF ROOMY INSIDE


Styling of the 300L was by Elwood Belt lines were lower and
Engle, who had replaced Virgil Exner as roof lines higher this year,
Chryslers chief of design. Although the which increased the glass
companys advertising claimed that this area and made the interior
was The Most Beautiful Chrysler Ever feel even more cavernous.
Built, the Crisp, Clean, Custom look
of 6364 had ballooned.

SUSPENSION
Torsion-bar front
suspension gave
poise and accuracy.
Chrysler 300L (1965) 167

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Chrysler 300L (1965)


PRODUCTION 2,845 (1965)
BODY STYLES Two-door hardtop
and convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel unitary body.
ENGINE 413cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 360 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed automatic,
optional four-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Front: torsion bar;
Rear: leaf springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
TOUGH JOB MAXIMUM SPEED 110 mph
(177 km/h)
Competition was particularly stiff in 65, and the 300L had to
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.8 sec
fight hard against the Oldsmobile Starfire, the agonizingly
A.F.C. 1214 mpg (4.25 km/l)
pretty Buick Riviera, and the market leader, Fords flashy
Thunderbird. Only 2,405 300L hardtops were produced, and a
measly 440 two-door convertibles rolled out of the factory.

TRIMMINGS
Red or black leather BODY
could be specified for the 300Ls had unibody
final word in luxury. construction, with the
front subframe bolted TRUNK
rather than welded onto Owners had plenty of
the main structure. space to store luggage
in the massive trunk.

REAR AXLE
Rear axles could be equipped with
positive traction at extra cost.
168 Chrysler 300L (1965)
COSTLY CAR
Coupes weighed in at a solid
$4,090 with convertibles
stickering at $4,545.
GRADUAL DEMISE
1961 saw the 300G, which was the
last model to sport Exners fins.
The following year was arguably
the start of the decline of the
series, and by the time the
famous 300 nameplate had
reached its final year, the
spark had gone. The 300L
was not as quick as its
forebears and is the least
special of Chryslers
limited editions.

HEADLIGHTS
These live behind a
horizontally etched
glass panel.
Chrysler 300L (1965) 169
NEW BODY
In 65 the Chrysler line changed
dramatically with a new corporate
C-body shared with upmarket
Dodges and the Plymouth Fury.

COMFORT EXTRAS
Options included tilting steering
wheel, Golden Tone radio,
cruise control, remote trunk
release, high-speed warning
system, and air-conditioning.

INTERIOR
Front bucket seats plus a center console
were standard on the L, as was the new-for-
65 column instead of push-button automatic
transmission. The rear seat was molded to
look like buckets but could actually
accommodate three people.

ENGINE
The non-Hemi V8 was tough and reliable, and
gave the 300L very respectable performance
figures. The L was quick, agile, and one of the
smoothest-riding Letter Series cars made, with
45 bhp more than the standard 300s unit.
170 Citron Traction Avant

C ITRON Traction Avant


LOVED BY POLITICIANS, POETS, and painters alike, the Traction Avant marked a watershed
for both Citron and the worlds auto industry. A design prodigy, it was the first mass-
produced car to incorporate a monocoque bodyshell with front-wheel drive and torsion-
bar springing, and it began Citrons love affair with the unconventional. Conceived in
just 18 months, the Traction Avant cost the French company dearly. By 1934, they had
emptied the company coffers, laid off 8,000 workers, and on the insistence of the
French government, were taken over by Michelin, who gave the Traction Avant the
backing it deserved. It ran for over 23 years, with over three quarters of a million
sedans, fixed-head coupes, and convertibles sold. Citrons audacious sedan was
the most significant and successful production car of its time, eclipsed only by
the passage of 20 years and another voiture revolutionnaire, the Citron DS.

WORLD BEATER FRONT WHEEL BEAUTY NOT BRAWN


With aerodynamic styling, Front-wheel drive Though the Avant had a
unitary steel body, and made for tenacious 1911cc engine, it only
sweeping wings without roadholding. pushed out 46 bhp.
running boards, the Traction
Avant was a technical and
aesthetic tour de force.
Citron Traction Avant 171

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Citron Traction Avant (193455)


PRODUCTION 758,858 (including
six-cylinder)
BODY STYLE Five-seater, four-door sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Steel front-wheel
drive monocoque.
ENGINE 1911cc inline four-cylinder.
POWER OUTPUT 46 bhp at 3200 rpm.
INTERIOR TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual.
Three-speed gearbox was mounted ahead of the SUSPENSION Independent front and rear.
engine, with synchromesh on second and third. Drive BRAKES Hydraulic drums front
reached the road by Cardin driveshafts and constant and rear.
velocity joints at the axles. The dash-mounted gearshift MAXIMUM SPEED 70 mph (113 km/h)
(right) lived on in the DS of 1955 (see pages 17881). 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 25 sec
A.F.C. 23 mpg (8.1 km/l)

REVISED TRUNK
In 1952, Citron dispensed
with the earlier bob-tail
rear end and gave the
Traction a big trunk.

WHEEL
Michelin produced these Pilote
wheels and tires for the Traction.
172 Citron Traction Avant
HOOD
Side-opening hood
was a prewar feature.

ENGINE
The Tractions Maurice Sainturat
designed engine was new. Floating
Power came from a short-stroke
four-cylinder unit, with a three-
bearing crankshaft and push-rod
overhead valvesequating to seven
French horsepower.

EASY ACCESS
Engine, gearbox, radiator,
and front suspension were
mounted on a detachable
cradle for easy maintenance.

STYLISH DESIGN
The Art Deco door handle is typical of
Citrons obsession with form and
function. Beautiful yet practical, it TRICKY DRIVER
epitomizes Andr Lefevres astonishing The Traction looks and feels
design. The chevron-shaped gears were huge and was a real
also pioneered for smoothness and silence. handful in tight spaces.
Citron Traction Avant 173
REAR WINDOW
Small rear window
meant minimal
rearward visibility.

SUSPENSION ATTRACTION
In 1954, as the car was approaching the end of its
life, the six-cylinder Traction Avant was known as
Queen of the Road because of its hydro-
pneumatic suspensiona mixture
of liquid and gas.

HOME COMFORTS
Citron advertising tried to woo
buyers with the line on the
road... the comfort of home.

FRONT SUSPENSION
All-independent suspension with
torsion-bar springing, upper wishbones,
radius arms, friction shock absorbers,
and worm-and-roller steering (later
rack-and-pinion) gave crisp handling.

UNIVERSAL APPROVAL
The world lavished unstinting praise
on the Traction Avant, extolling its
roadholding, hydraulic brakes, ride
REMOVABLE HOOD comfort, and cornering abilities. Despite
Any serious engine repairs the praise, it was this great grand routier
meant that the hood had to be that devoured Andr Citrons wealth
removed completely. and pushed him to his deathbed.
174 Citron 2CV

C ITRON 2CV
RARELY HAS A CAR BEEN SO ridiculed as the Citron 2CV. At its launch at the 1948
Paris Salon, journalists lashed into this defenseless runabout with vicious zeal, and
everyone who was near Paris at the time claimed to be the originator of the quip,
Do you get a can opener with it? They all missed the point, for this minimal car
was not meant to be measured against other cars; its true rival was the horse and
cart, which Citron boss Pierre Boulanger hoped to replace with his toute petite
voitureor very small car. As the Deux Chevaux it became much more than that
and putt-putted into the history books, selling more than five million by the
time of its eventual demise in 1990. As devotees of the 2CV say,
You either love them, or you dont understand them.
CAREFUL PLANNING SIMPLE CHASSIS
In 1935, Pierre Boulanger conceived a car Although designers flirted
to woo farmers away from the horse and with notions of a chassisless
cart. It would weigh no more than 661 lb car, cost dictated a more
(300 kg) and carry four people at 37 mph conventional sheet-steel
(60 km/h), while consuming no more platform chassis.
than 56 mpg. The car that appears
undesigned was in fact
carefully conceived.
Citron 2CV 175

VISUAL ASSISTANCE
Instructions on how to start SPECIFICATIONS
and stop the 2CV were
displayed behind the sun visor. MODEL Citron 2CV (194990)
PRODUCTION 5,114,966 (includes vans)
BODY STYLES Four-door convertible
sedan, two-door van.
INTERIOR CONSTRUCTION Separate steel platform
A speedo and ammeter chassis, steel body.
were the only concessions ENGINES Air-cooled, horizontally opposed
to modernity. The original twin of 375cc, 425cc, 435cc, 602cc.
fuel gauge was just a POWER OUTPUT 9, 12, 18, and 29
calibrated stick. bhp, respectively.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual, front-
wheel drive.
SUSPENSION Independent, interconnected
coil-sprung.
BRAKES Drums all around.
MAXIMUM SPEED 375cc: 43 mph
(69 km/h); 425cc: 49 mph (79 km/h);
435cc: 53 mph (85 km/h); 602cc: 72 mph
(116 km/h).
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 30 sec (602cc)
A.F.C. 4555 mpg (1619.5 km/l)

BOLT ON
All the body panels
simply unbolted, and even
the body shell was only
held in place by 16 bolts.

SUSPENSION
The sophisticated
independent
suspension system
gave a soft ride.
176 Citron 2CV

STRAIGHTFORWARD DESIGN
The sober design purpose of
the rolltop roof was to allow
transportation of tall, bulky
objects. It also happened that
Citron boss Pierre Boulanger
was a six-footer who liked to
wear a hat in a car. The minimal,
but handy, lightweight,
hammock-style seats lifted
out to accommodate more
goods or to provide picnic seating.

TRUNK
Roll-up canvas trunk lid of
the original saved both weight
and cost; a metal lid took over
in 1957 on French cars.

DOORS
You were lucky to get
them; prototypes featured
waxed-cloth door coverings.

FUNCTIONAL DESIGN
The indicators are a good example of
the functional design ethos. Why put
a pair of indicators on the front and
another pair on the back, when you
could save the cost of two bulbs by
giving your car cute ears that could
be seen front and rear.
Citron 2CV 177

ENGINE
The original 375cc air-cooled
twin, as seen here, eventually
grew to all of 602cc, but all
versions are genuinely happy
to rev full out all day. In fact,
most spend all their time
being driven at maximum
speed and seem to thrive on
full revs. Engines are hard-
working and long-lasting.

AIR VENT
Fresh air was obtained by opening
the vent on the scuttle; a mesh
strained out the insects and leaves.

UNIQUE RIDE
Nothing drives like a Citron 2CV
the handling looks lurid as it leans
over wildly. The ride, though, is
exceptional, and the tenacious
grip of those skinny
tires is astonishing.
All that and front-
wheel drive too.

HEADLIGHT
Prewar production
prototypes had only
one headlight.

BODY COLORS
Gray until late 1959,
then the choice doubled
to include Glacier
Blue, with green and
yellow added in 1960.
178 Citron DS 21 Decapotable

C ITRON DS 21 Decapotable
IN 1955, WHEN CITRON FIRST drove prototypes of their mold-breaking DS
through Paris, they were pursued by crowds shouting La DS, la DS, voil la DS!
Few other cars before or since were so technically and stylistically daring, and at its
launch the DS created as many column inches as the death of Stalin. Cushioned on
a bed of hydraulic fluid, with a semiautomatic gearbox, self-leveling suspension,
and detachable body panels, it rendered half the worlds cars out of date at a stroke.
Parisian carmaker Henri Chapron produced 1,365 convertible DSs using the
chassis from the Safari Estate model. Initially, Citron refused to cooperate with
Chapron but eventually sold the Decapotable models through their dealer network.
At the time the stylish four-seater convertible was considered by many to be one of
the most charismatic open-top cars on the market, and today genuine Chapron cars
command seriously hefty premiums over the price of ordinary tin-top DS saloons.
AERODYNAMIC PROFILE RENOWNED OWNERS
The slippery, streamlined body cleaved the air Past owners of the DS include
with extreme aerodynamic efficiency. Body General de Gaulle, Brigitte Bardot,
panels were detachable for easy repair and and the poet C. Day-Lewis.
maintenance. Rear fenders could be removed
for wheel changing in minutes, using
just the cars wheelbrace.

THINNER
REAR
On all DSs
the rear track
was narrower
than the front.
Citron DS 21 Decapotable 179

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Citron DS 21 Decapotable


INTERIOR (196071)
The inside was as PRODUCTION 1,365
innovative as the BODY STYLE Five-seater convertible.
outside, with clever CONSTRUCTION All-steel body with
use of curved glass detachable panels, steel platform chassis
and copious layers with welded box section side members.
of foam rubber, ENGINE Four-cylinder 2175cc.
even on the floors. POWER OUTPUT 109 bhp at 5550 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed clutchless
semiautomatic.
SUSPENSION Independent all around with
hydro-pneumatic struts.
DASHBOARD BRAKES Front: disc; Rear: drums.
Bertones asymmetrical dashboard makes the MAXIMUM SPEED 116 mph (187 km/h)
interior look as futuristic as the rest of the 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 11.2 sec
car. The single-spoke steering wheel was a 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 40.4 sec
Citron hallmark. The dash-mounted gear A.F.C. 24 mpg (8.5 km/l)
lever operated the clutchless
semiautomatic box.

PROTECTION
Thin rubber overrider-
type bumpers offered
some protection.

NOSE JOB
The DS was known as
the Shark because of
its prodigious nose.
180 Citron DS 21 Decapotable

QUALITY CHOICE
Smooth Bertone-designed lines have
made the Citron DS a cult design icon
and the cerebral choice for doctors,
architects, artists, and musicians.
Customers could specify almost
any stylistic or mechanical extra.
BADGING
Citrons double
chevrons are modeled
on helical gears.

LIGHT ALTERATION
A major change
came in 1967 when
the headlights and
optional spot
lights were faired in
behind glass covers.

ENGINE
The DS 21s rather sluggish
2175cc engine developed
109 bhp and was never highly
praised, having its origins in
the prewar Traction Avant
(see pages 17073). Stopping
power was provided by
innovative inboard disc
brakes with split circuits.

SPARE WHEEL
Spare wheel under
the hood allowed for
extra trunk space.
Citron DS 21 Decapotable 181
SUSPENSION STYLING
Fully independent Citrons advertising
gas suspension gave a made much of the
magic-carpet ride. cars futuristic looks.

DS FAME
In 1962, the image of the DS received a boost
when terrorists attacked President General De
Gaulle. Despite being sprayed with bullets and
having two flat tires, the presidential DS was
able to swerve and speed away to safety.

NEAT TOUCHES
One of the Decapotables
trademarks was angled chrome-
plated indicators perched on the
rearfenders. Another was the novel
suspension, which could be raised
toclear rough terrain or navigate
flooded roads.

A TRUE CLASSIC
Low, rakish, and space-age in
appearance, the DS was so
perfectly styled that it hardly
altered shape in 20 years. The
French philosopher Roland
Barthes was captivated by the DSs
design and compared its technical
preeminence to the Gothic flourish
of medieval cathedrals.
182 Citron SM

C ITRON SM
THE CITRON SM MAKES about as much sense as the Concorde, but since when have
great cars had anything to do with common sense? It is certainly a flight of fancy, an
extravagant, technical tour de force that, as a 16-ft (4.9-m) long streamliner, offered little
more than 2+2 seating. The SM bristled with innovationsmany of them established
Citron hallmarkslike swiveling headlights and self-leveling hydro-pneumatic
suspension. It was a complex cartoo complex in fact, with self-centering power
steering and brakes that were both powered by (and virtually inoperable without)
a high-compression engine-driven pump. And of course there was that capricious
Maserati V6 motor. Yet once againCitren had created an enduringly futuristic
car where other tomorrow cars of today were soon exposed as voguish fads.

SLEEK AND SPEEDY COMPOUND CURVES


The SMs striking low-drag body was designed The tinted rear window, with
by ex-General Motors stylist Henri de Segur compound curves and heating elements,
Lauve. The sleek nose and deep undertray, must have cost a fortune to produce.
together with the noticeably tapered rear end,
endow it with a slippery profile that gives
a high level of aerodynamic
efficiency. It is impressively
stable at high speed.

US INFLUENCE
Only the SMs over-
elaborate chromed rear
fins betray the General
Motors styling influence.
Citron SM 183

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Citron SM, SM EFI, and


SM Auto (197075)
PRODUCTION 12,920 (all types, all LHD)
BODY STYLE Two-door, 2+2 coupe.
CONSTRUCTION All-steel unitary, with
steelbody and aluminum hood.
ENGINES All-aluminum 90-degree V6 of
2670cc (2974cc for SM Auto).
POWER OUTPUT SM: 170 bhp at 5500
rpm;2974cc: 180 bhp at 5750 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Citron five-speed manual
or Borg-Warner three-speed automatic;
front-wheel-drive.
SUSPENSION Hydro-pneumatic springing;
independent transverse arms front,
DASHBOARD independent trailing arms rear.
The oval speedo and tachometer BRAKES Discs all around.
are visible through the single- MAXIMUM SPEED 137 mph
(220 km/h) (sm efi)
spoke steering wheel, and the
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.3 sec (sm efi)
perennially confusing cluster of
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 2630 sec
warning lights (right) are to the right. A.F.C. 1517 mpg (5.36.1 km/l)
WARNING LIGHTS
It took practice to decide
in a hurry what each ENGINE
of the tiny warning Capacity was initially kept below
lights actually meant. 2.8 liters to escape Frances
punitive vehicle taxation system.

WHEELS
Lightweight wheels
reinforced with carbon fiber
were optionally available.
184 Citron SM

SURPRISING HANDLING
Despite its size and weight, the SM
can actually be thrown around like a
sports car. It rolls like a trawler in a
heavy sea, and, like all front-wheel
drivers, it understeers strongly but
resolutely refuses to let go.

NOVEL LIGHTS WIND CHEATER


The SM had an array of six The tapering body is apparent
headlights, with the inner light in this overhead view.
on each side swiveling as the
steering was turned.

PURELY FUNCTIONAL
The bulge in the tailgate above
the rear license plate was for
purely functional, aerodynamic
reasons. It also suited the
deeper license plates used
on models in the US.

SUPPORTING ROLE
Like that of most front-
wheel drive cars, the SMs
rear suspension does little
more than hold the body
off the ground.
Citron SM 185

ENGINE
SM stands for Seri Maserati, and the
exquisite Maserati all-aluminum V6 engine
weighed just 309 lb (140 kg), was only 12 in
(31 cm) long, but produced at least 170 bhp.

REAR CRAMP
Citrons publicity material tried
to hide the fact, but rear-seat
legroom and headroom were barely
sufficient for two large children.
FRONTWARD VISIBILITY
Slim windshield pillars should have
meant excellent visibility but, in
practice, the left-hand
drive SM was sometimes
difficult to place
on the road.

BRAKES
Inboard front
disc brakes
incorporated
the handbrake
mechanism.
186 Continental Mark II

C ONTINENTAL Mark II
THAT THE FIFTIES AUTO INDUSTRY couldnt make a beautiful car is robustly disproved
by the 56 Continental. As pretty as anything from Italy, the Mark II was intended to
be a work of art and a symbol of affluence. William Ford was fanatical about his
personal project, fighting for a chrome rather than plastic hood ornament costing
$150, or the price of an entire Ford grille. But it was that tenacious attention to detail
that killed the car. Even with the Mark IIs huge $10,000 price tag, the Continental
Division still hemorrhaged money. Poor sales, internal company struggles, and the
factthat it was only a two-door meant that by 58 the Continental was no more.
Ironically, one of the most beautiful cars Ford ever made was sacrificed to save
one of the ugliest in the upcoming E-Car projectthe Edsel.
PERSONAL LUXURY RAGTOPS
The most expensive automobile in BODY HEIGHT Two special convertibles
America, the $9,695 Continental Cow belly frame was were built before the
really was the car for the stars. Elvis specifically designed to allow high Continental was axed.
tried one as a change from his usual seating with a low roof line.
Cadillacs, and Jayne Mansfield
owned a pearl-colored 57 with
mink trim. The Continental was LEATHER INTERIOR
three years in the planning and The high-quality all-leather trim
was sold and marketed through was specially imported from
a special Continental Division. Bridge of Weir in Scotland.
Continental Mark II 187

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Continental Mark II (1956)


PRODUCTION 2,550 (1956)
BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater
sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINE 368cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 300 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Turbo-Drive three-speed
automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: independent
coil springs; Rear: leaf springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 115 mph (185 km/h)
INTERIOR 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 12.1 sec
The classically simple cabin could have come straight out A.F.C. 16 mpg (5.7 km/l)
of a British car. The interior boasted richly grained leathers
and lavish fabrics. Self-tuning radio, four-way power
seat, dual heater, and map lights were among an
impressive array of standard features.

CABIN TEMPERATURE PRICE OF CLAY


Air-conditioning was the A pricey little number, even
Continentals only extra- the Continentals prototype
cost option. clay mock-up cost $1 million.
188 Continental Mark II
SEATS
Seats were one of the
many power-assisted
elements of the car.

GAS GUZZLER
Like all US cruisers of the
era, the Continental was a
thirsty beast, with a figure
of 16 mpg (5.7 km/l).

HANDSOME REAR
Handsome three-quarter profile echoes
some Ferrari 250 models. Note how the
gas cap lives behind the taillight. Unlike
later models, the stamped-in spare tire
cover did actually house the spare.

BIG BLOCK
Except for Packards
374cid unit, this was
the largest engine
available in a 1956
production car.

ENGINE
Engines were Lincoln 368cid V8s,
specially picked from the assembly
line, stripped down, and hand-
balanced for extra smoothness
andrefinement.
Continental Mark II 189

TINTED GLASS
This was one of the no-cost
extras offered. Others
included two-tone paint and
an engraved nameplate.

SIMPLE FRONT ASPECT


SCRIPT With a sleek, clean front and simple die-cast grille, the
Continental tag revived only concession to contemporary Detroit ornamentation
the famous 1930s was how the direction indicators were faired into
Lincolns of Edsel Ford. the front bumper.

ROLLS KILLER
At the rear of the car, trim fins, elegant
bumpers, and neat inset taillights meant
that the Continental was admired on both
sides of the Atlantic. But though its target
market was Rolls-Royce territory, it turned
out that the market wasnt large enough
tosustain volume production.

CLASSY BODY
High-quality bodies were specially
finished by the Mitchell-Bentley
Corporation of Ionia, Michigan.

FRENCH DEBUT
The Continental debuted on
October 6, 1955 at the Paris
Auto Show to rave reviews.
190 Daimler SP250 Dart

D AIMLER SP250 Dart


AN ECCENTRIC HYBRID, the SP250 was the car that sunk Daimler. By the late
Fifties, the traditionalist Coventry-based company was in dire financial straits.
Hoping to woo the car-crazy Americans, Daimler launched the Dart, with its
odd pastiche of British and American styling themes, at the 1959 New York
Show. Daimler had been making buses out of fiberglass, and the Dart emerged
with a quirky, rust-free glass-reinforced-plastic body. The girder chassis was
an unashamed copy of the Triumph TR2 (see pages 44447), and to keep the
basic price down, necessities like heater, windshield wipers, and bumpers were
made optional extras. Hardly a great car, the SP250 was a commercial failure,
and projected sales of 7,500 units in the first three years dissolved into just 2,644,
with only 1,200 going Stateside. Jaguar took over Daimler in 1960, and by 1964,
Sir William Lyons had axed the sportiest car Daimler had ever made.

THE DART CONCEPT HOOD


The Dart was a Fifties concept born too Fibreglass hood had a
late to compete with the New Wave of nasty habit of springing
monocoque sports cars headed by the open at high speed.
stunning E-Type. It stands as a memorial
to both the haphazard Sixties British car
industry and its self-destructive love affair
with all things American.
Daimler SP250 Dart 191

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Daimler SP250 Dart (195964)


PRODUCTION 2,644 (1,415 LHD,
1,229 RHD)
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater
sports convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Fiberglass body, steel
girder chassis.
INTERIOR ENGINE Iron-block 2548cc V8.
The cockpit was pure British, with POWER OUTPUT 140 bhp at 5800 rpm.
center gauges mounted on an TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual or
aluminum plate, leather seats and three-speed Borg-Warner Model 8.
dash, an occasional rear seat, fly-off SUSPENSION Independent front with
wishbones and coil springs. Rear live axle
handbrake, wind-up windows, and with leaf springs.
thick-pile carpets. Borg-Warner BRAKES Four-wheel Girling discs.
automatic transmission was an MAXIMUM SPEED 125 mph (201 km/h)
option but tended to slow the car 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.5 sec
down considerably. 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 19.1 sec
A.F.C. 25 mpg (8.8 km/l)
REAR SEAT
Vestigial rear seat could
just about accommodate
one child.
192 Daimler SP250 Dart

ENGINE
The turbine-smooth, Edward
Turnerdesigned V8 was the
Darts tour de force. If you were
brave enough, it could reach
125mph (201 km/h). With alloy
heads and hemispherical
combustion chambers, it was a
gem of a unit that survived until
1969 in the Daimler 250 sedan.

IMPOSING SIGHT
The guppy-style front could never be
called handsome, but when Sixties
drivers caught it in their rearview
mirrors, they knew to move over. The
drastic plastic Dart was seriously
quick. Contemporary tests
praised the Darts
performance and
sweet-running V8.

FENDERS
Fluted fenders
looked good and
gave the body
extra rigidity.
Daimler SP250 Dart 193

DART DEVELOPMENT
Dart development had three
phases: 195961 A-spec cars
came with no creature
comforts; April 1961 and
later B-specs had standard
bumpers, windshield wipers,
and chassis modifications;
while the last and most
refined C-specs, produced
from April 1963 to September
1964, boasted a heater and
cigar lighter as standard.

NEAT TOP
Top furled away
neatly behind rear
seat, covered with
a fabric bag.

SPEED STRAIN
At high speed, the Dart was hard
work; the chassis flexed, doors
opened on corners, and steering
was heavy. Road
testers admired its
speed but thought
the chassis,
handling, and body
finish were poor.

CUTE STYLING
Chrome-on-brass
rear light finishers
were monogrammed
with a dainty D.
194 Datsun Fairlady 1600

D ATSUN Fairlady 1600


THE SIMILARITY BETWEEN THE Datsun Fairlady and the MGB (see pages 37273)
is quite astonishing. The Datsun actually appeared first, at the 1961 Tokyo
Motor Show, followed a year later by the MGB. Hardly a great car in its
early 1500cc guise, the Fairlady improved dramatically over the years, a
foretaste of the Japanese car industrys culture of constant improvement.
The later two-liter, twin-carb, five-speed variants of 1967 could reach 125
mph (200 km/h) and even raised eyebrows at American sports car club races.
Aimed at the American market, where it was known as the Datsun 1500,
the Fairlady sold only 40,000 in nine years. But it showed Datsun how
to make the legendary 240Z (see pages 19699), which became one
of the worlds best-selling sports cars.
BODY PANELS
The front fenders were
bolted on for easy repair.

ENGINE
The 1595cc 90 bhp
unit was the mainstay
of the Fairlady
line until 1970.

EUROPEAN LINES
Higher and narrower than the MGB, the Fairlady
had an unmistakable and deliberate European
look. However, of the 7,000 1500cc models sold,
half went to the United States.
Datsun Fairlady 1600 195

STYLING
Interestingly, no attempt was made to make the
interior harmonize with the Fairladys traditional
exterior lines. The cockpit was typical of the
period, with acres of black plastic.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Datsun Fairlady 1600 (196570)


PRODUCTION Approx 40,000
BODY STYLE Two-seater sports
convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body mounted
on box-section chassis.
ENGINE 1595cc four-cylinder.
POWER OUTPUT 90 bhp at 6000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed all-synchro.
SUSPENSION Front: independent;
Rear: leaf springs.
BRAKES Front wheel discs, rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 105 mph (169 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 13.3 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 25 sec
A.F.C. 25 mpg (8.8 km/l)

PERIOD CHARM
Low and rakish with classically perfect
proportions, the Fairlady has a certain
period charm and is one of the best-
looking Datsuns produced before 1965.
Side views show the car at its best,
while the messy rear and cluttered
nose do not work as well.
196 Datsun 240Z

D ATSUN 240Z
THROUGHOUT THE 1960s, Japanese carmakers were teetering on the brink ofa
sports car breakthrough. Toyotas 2000 GT (see pages 44243) was a beauty, but
with only 337 made, it was an exclusive curio. Honda was givingit a try too, with
the dainty S600 and S800. As for Datsun, the MGB-lookalike Fairladies were
relatively popular in Japan and the United States, but virtually unknown elsewhere.
The revolution came with the Datsun 240Z, which at a stroke established Japan
on the world sports car stage at a time when there was a gaping hole in that sector,
particularly in the US. It was even launched in the States in October 1969, a month
before its official Japanese release, and on a rising tide of Japanese exports to the
US it scored a massive hit. It had the looks, performance, handling, and equipment
levels. A great value sporting package that outsold all rivals.
TOP STYLIST
The lines of the 240Z were based
on earlier styling exercises by
Albrecht Goertz, master stylist
of the BMW 507
(see pages 6467).

SPOILER
Trunk-lid airfoil was
not a standard 240Z
feature in all markets.
Datsun 240Z 197

WINDSHIELD BALANCE HOOD


Steeply raked This view shows that the engine was placed Hood was uncluttered
windshield aided forward of the centerline, with the occupants by unnecessary louvers;
aerodynamic efficiency. well behind it; yet the Z was noted for its fine it later became fussier.
balance. The large rear window offered the ENGINE
driver excellent rearward vision. The six-cylinder twin-carb
2.4-liter engine was developed
from the four-cylinder unit of
the Bluebird sedan range.

WHEELS
Tacky plastic wheel trim
is an original fitment.
198 Datsun 240Z

FIRST OF BREED
As with so many long-lived sports
cars, the first-of-breed 240Z is seen
as the best sporting packagelighter
and nimbler than its successors. If
you wanted to cut a real dash
in a 240Z, the ultimate Samurai
performance option had what
it takes. Modifications gave
six-second 060
(96 km/h) figures.

MIXED STYLING CUES


As with the recessed lights at the front, there is an
echo of the E-Type Jaguar fixed-head coupe (see
pages 30609) at the rear, with a little Porsche 911
(see pages 42021), Mustang fastback (see pages
28285), and Aston Martin DBS of 1969.

CAT LIGHTS
Recessed front light
treatment is very
reminiscent of an
E-Type Jaguar.

INTERIOR
Cockpit layout was tailored to American
tastes, with hooded instruments and
beefy controls. The vinyl-covered bucket
seats offered generous rear luggage space.
Datsun 240Z 199

Z IDENTITY
The model was launched in Japan as SPECIFICATIONS
the Fairlady Z, replacing the earlier
Fairlady line; export versions were MODEL Datsun 240Z (196973)
universally known as 240Z and PRODUCTION 156,076
badged accordingly. Non-UK and BODY STYLE Three-door, two-seater
sports hatchback.
US models were badged as Nissans CONSTRUCTION Steel monocoque.
rather than Datsuns. ENGINE Inline single overhead-camshaft
six, 2393cc.
POWER OUTPUT 151 bhp at 5600 rpm.
TRANSMISSION All-synchromesh four- or
five-speed manual gearbox, or auto.
SUSPENSION Front: Independent
by MacPherson struts, low links, coil
springs, telescopic shock absorbers; Rear:
Independent by MacPherson struts, lower
wishbones, coil springs, telescopic dampers.
BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 125 mph (210 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.0 sec
A.F.C. 2025 mpg (79 km/l)

BODY PANELS
Thin, rot-prone body panels
were one of the few things
that let the 240Z down.

BADGING
The name Datsun
literally son
of Datfirst
appeared on a
small Dat in 1932.

SUSPENSION
Sophisticated
suspension spec was
independent with
MacPherson struts
on all four wheels.
200 DeLorean DMC 12

D E L OREAN DMC 12
THE LONG-AWAITED TRANSPORT revolution has begun bellowed the glossy brochures
for John Zachary DeLoreans mold-breaking DMC 12. With a unique brushed
stainless-steel body, gullwing doors, and an all-electric interior, the DMC was intended
as a glimpse of the future. Today its claim to fame is as one of the car industrys
greatest failures, on a par with Fords disastrous Edsel (see pages 21623). Despite
$130m worth of government aid to establish a specially built factory in West Belfast,
DeLorean shut its doors in 1982 with debts of $50m. As for the hapless souls who
bought the cars, they were faced with a litany of quality control problems, from doors
that would not open, to windows that fell out. Even exposure in the film Back to the
Future did not help the DeLoreans fortunes. Success depended on American sales,
and the companys forecasts were wildly optimistic. After the initial novelty died
down, word spread that DeLoreans were dogs, and sales completely evaporated.

BACHELOR WHEELS LIGHT FRONT


The DeLorean was targeted at With rear-engined layout,
the bachelor whos made it WHEELS the weight distribution
and part of the design brief Custom-made spoked was split 35 percent front
was that there had to be room alloys were smaller at to 65 percent rear.
behind the front seats for a full the front than the back.
set of golf clubs. It was designed
by Giugiaro and overseen
by Colin Chapman of
Lotus fame.
DeLorean DMC 12 201

HOT CABIN
With tiny windows and climate TEETHING TROUBLES
control that regularly failed, The gullwing doors and stainless-steel body
temperatures got very hot indeed. were cynical marketing ploys which, as
everybody involved in the prototype agreed,
were more trouble than they were worth.
202 DeLorean DMC 12

STARRING ROLE GULLWINGS


The 1985 film Back to the Future used a DeLorean The DeLoreans most celebrated party
as a time machine to travel back to 1955; in trick was gullwing doors that leaked
reality the car was very orthodox. Underpinnings and did not open or close properly.
were technically uninspiring and relied
heavily on components from other
cars. Under the hood, the 145 bhp
output was modest.

STRUT
Held by a puny single gas
strut, it was an act of
the purest optimism to expect
the doors to work properly.

DATED DELOREAN
By the time of its launch in 1979, the
DeLorean was old before its time. 70s
styling motifs abound, like the slatted rear
window and cubed rear lights.

ENGINE
The overhead-cam, Volvo-sourced 2.8 V6
engine used Bosch K-Jetronic fuel
injection. Five-speed manual was standard
with three-speed automatic optional.
DeLorean DMC 12 203
ELECTRONICS
Complex electronics were
the result of last-minute
cost-cutting measures.

HEAVY DOORS
Overloaded doors were
crammed with locks, glass,
electric motors, mirrors,
stereo speakers, and
ventilation pipery. STAINLESS-STEEL BODY
Brushed stainless-steel was
disliked by Colin Chapman INTERIOR
but insisted upon by DeLorean The leather-clad interior looked
himself. Soon owners found imposing, with electric windows,
that it was impossible to clean. tilting telescopic steering column,
double weather seals, air-
conditioning, and a seven-position
climate control function.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL DeLorean DMC 12 (197982)


PRODUCTION 6,500
BODY STYLE Two-seater rear-engined
sports coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Y-shaped chassis with
stainless-steel body.
ENGINE 2850cc ohc V6.
POWER OUTPUT 145 bhp at 5500 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed manual
(optional three-speed auto).
SUSPENSION Independent with unequal
length parallel arms and rear trailing arms.
BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 125 mph (201 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 9.6 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 23.2 sec
A.F.C. 22 mpg (7.8 km/l)
204 DeSoto Custom

D E S OTO Custom
THE DESOTO OF 1950 had a glittery glamour that cheered up postwar America. Hailed
as cars built for owner satisfaction, they were practical, boxy, and tough. DeSoto
was a longtime taxi builder that, in the steel-starved years of 194648, managed to turn
out 11,600 cabs, most of which plied the streets of New York. Despite more chrome
upfront than any other Chrysler product, DeSotos still labored on with an L-head
six-pot 250cid mill. The legendary Firedome V8 wouldnt arrive until 1952. But body
shapes for 1950 were the prettiest ever, and the American public reacted with delight,
buying up 133,854 units in the calendar year, ranking DeSoto 14th in the industry.
Top-line Custom Convertibles had a very reasonablesticker price of $2,578 and came
with Tip-Toe hydraulic shift with Gyrol fluid drive as standard. The austere postwar
years were a sales Disneyland for the makers of these sparkling cars, but DeSotos
roll couldnt last. By 1961 theyd disappeared forever.
MODEL LINE INNOVATIVE GEARING
The top-priced Custom line fielded a Fluid drive gearbox was an
Club Coupe, two huge wagons, a six- innovative semiautomatic
passenger sedan, a two-door Sportsman, pre-selector with conventional
and a convertible. DeSotos volume manual operation or
sellers were its sedans and coupes, which semiauto kick-down.
listed at under $2,000 in De Luxe form.

SOLID CAR
Chrysler sold
DeSotos on solidity
and value for money.
DeSoto Custom 205

MID-RANGE MODELS
DeSotos role at Chrysler was much like CHROME INTERIOR
Mercurys at Ford and Oldsmobiles at GM Theres more chrome
to plug the gap between budget models than instruments; by
and uptown swankmobiles. 50 DeSotos 1952 the dashboard
came in two levels of trim: De Luxe and would have chrome dials.
the plusher Custom, at $200 more.
HOOD
Hood is sleek and
swish but had to
be raised by hand.
DASHBOARD
Direction signals and backup lights were
offered as standard on the Custom,
while options included heater, electric
clock, and two-tone paint.

TIRES
Convertibles came with
whitewalls and wheel
covers as standard.
206 DeSoto Custom

REAR FENDER SPLIT WINDSHIELD


The DeSoto body shape still Flat glass split windshield
carried hints of the separate was parted with a chromed
fenders of prewar cars. center rod on which the rear-
view mirror was positioned.

CHUNKY YET REFINED


The DeSotos rump was large, round, and
unadorned, and trunk space was cavernous.
The Custom Convertible was clean and
elegant enough to be seen cruising
alongthe most stylish boulevards.

HOOD ORNAMENT
Optional hood ornament was
one Hernando DeSoto, a
17th-century Spanish
conquistador. The ornament
glowed in the dark.
DeSoto Custom 207

TOOTHY GRILLE
The mammoth-tooth grille dominates the SHARED UNIT SPECIFICATIONS
front aspect of the DeSoto but would be All 50 DeSotos
scaled down for 1951. 1950 models are shared the same MODEL DeSoto Custom Convertible (1950)
easily spotted by their body-color vertical lackluster straight six. PRODUCTION 2,900 (1950)
grille divider, unique to this year. BODY STYLE Two-door convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and box-
section chassis.
ENGINE 236.7cid straight-six.
POWER OUTPUT 112 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Fluid drive semiautomatic.
SUSPENSION Front: independent
coil springs; Rear: leaf springs with
live axle.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 90 mph (145 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 22.1 sec
A.F.C. 18 mpg (6.4 km/l)

ENGINE
The side-valve straight
six was stodgy, putting
out a modest 112 bhp.

ADVERTISEMENT
During the 1950s, car advertising
copy became extravagant, relying
more on hyperbole than fact. This
DeSoto promotion was no exception.
208 De Tomaso Pantera GT5

D E T OMA S O Pantera GT5


AN UNCOMPLICATED SUPERCAR, the Pantera was a charming amalgam of Detroit
grunt and Italian glam. Launched in 1971 and sold in North America by Fords
Lincoln-Mercury dealers, it was powered by a mid-mounted Ford 5.7-liter V8 that
could muster 159 mph (256 km/h) and belt to 60 mph (96 km/h) in under six
seconds. The formidable 350 bhp GT5 was built after Ford pulled out in 1974 and
De Tomaso merged with Maserati. With a propensity for the front lifting at high
speed, hopeless rear visibility, no headroom, awkward seats, and impossibly placed
pedals, the Pantera is massively flawed, yet remarkably easy to drive. Handling is
poised and accurate, plus that wall of power which catapults the car to 30 mph
(48 km/h) in less time than it takes to pronounce its name.

HOT BLOCK
TRUNK Early Panteras would overheat, ALL SHOOK UP
Lift-up rear panel gave and owners would often see the Elvis Presley shot his Pantera
total engine accessibility temperature gauge creep past when it wouldnt start.
for maintenance. 230F (110C).

EXHAUSTS
Four exhausts were
necessary to provide
an efficient outlet
forall that power.
De Tomaso Pantera GT5 209

LIMITED HEADROOM CONSTRUCTION


Do not buy a Pantera if you The underside was old- SPECIFICATIONS
are over 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) fashioned welded pressed
MODEL De Tomaso Pantera GT5
tallthere is no headroom. steel monocoque. (197493)
PRODUCTION N/A
BODY STYLE Mid-engined two-
seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Pressed-steel chassis
body unit.
ENGINE 5763cc V8.
POWER OUTPUT 350 bhp at 6000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed manual
ZF Transaxle.
SUSPENSION All-around independent.
BRAKES All-around ventilated discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 159 mph (256 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.5 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 13.5 sec
A.F.C. 15 mpg (5.3 km/l)
US RESTRICTIONS
Americans were not able to buy the proper GT5
due to the cars lack of engine-emission controls
and had to settle for just the GT5 badges.

STYLING STUNNING PROFILE


Shape was penned by Tom Fat arches, aggressive GT5 graphics
Tjaarda, who gave it a clean down the flanks, 11-in (28-cm) wide
uncluttered nose. wheels, and ground clearance you
could not slide an envelope under
make the Pantera look evil.
210 De Tomaso Pantera GT5

PANTERA AT SPEED
WHEEL ARCH The huge fender helps rear down-force but actually
Wheel arches slows the Pantera down. At the General Motors
strained outward Millbrook proving ground in England, a GT5 with
to cover 13-in the fender in place made 148 mph (238 km/h);
(33-cm) rear tires. without the fender it reached 151.7 mph (244 km/h).

COCKPIT
With the engine so
close to the interior,
the cabin temperature
could get very hot.

TIRES
Giant Pirelli P7
INTERIOR 345/45 rear rubber
The Pantera requires a typical Italian driving belonged on the track
positionlong arms and short legs. Switches and and gave astonishing
dials are all over the place, but the glorious engine road traction.
tone is right next to your ears.
De Tomaso Pantera GT5 211

TRANSAXLE ENGINE
The ZF transaxle was also The Pantera is really just a big
used in the Ford GT40 (see power plant with a body attached.
pages 25861) and cost more The monster V8 lives in the middle,
to make than the engine. mated to a beautifully built aluminum-
cased ZF transaxle.

SHARED ENGINEERING FRONT-END SCARES


The Pantera was engineered by Despite a front spoiler, the little weight
Giampaolo Dallara, also upfront meant that when the Pantera
responsible for the Lamborghini hit over 120 mph (193 km/h), the nose
Miura (see pages 31821). would lift and the steering would lighten
up alarmingly. Generally, though, the
cars rear-wheel drive setup
made for neat, controllable
handling; an expert could
literally steer the Pantera
on the throttle.
212 Dodge Charger R/T

D ODGE Charger R/T


COLLECTORS RANK THE 1968 Dodge Charger as one of the fastest and best-styled
muscle cars of its era. This, the second generation of Charger, marked the pinnacle
of the horsepower race between American car manufacturers in the late 1960s. At
that time, gasoline was 10 cents a gallon, Americans had more disposable income
than ever before, and engine capacity was everything to the aspiring car buyer.
With its hugely powerful 7.2-liter engine, the Charger 440 was, in reality, a thinly
veiled street racer. The Rapid Transit (R/T) version was a high-performance factory
option, which included heavy-duty suspension and brakes, dual exhausts, and wider
tires. At idle, the engine produced such massive torque that it rocked the car body
from side to side. Buyers took the second generation Charger to their hearts in a
big way, with sales outstripping the earlier lackluster model by a factor of six.

HANDSOME BEAST INDICATORS WOODEN WHEEL


The Charger was the creation Neat styling features Factory options included
of Dodges chief of design, Bill included indicator repeaters wood-grained steering
Brownlie, and its clean, voluptuous built into the hood scoop. wheel and cruise control.
lines gave this car one of the most
handsome shapes of the day. It left ENGINE
you in no doubt as to what it was all The potent engine
about: guts and purpose. The mean- had enough power to
looking nose, blacked-out grille, and spin the rear wheels
low hood made drivers of lesser in every gear.
machines move over fast.

ANTIROLL BARS
Enormous 1 in (25 mm)
diameter antiroll bars.
Dodge Charger R/T 213

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Dodge Charger (196770)


PRODUCTION 96,100
BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater.
CONSTRUCTION Steel monocoque body.
ENGINE 7.2-liter V8.
POWER OUTPUT 375 bhp at 3200 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed TorqueFlite
auto, or Hurst four-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Front: heavy duty independent;
Rear: leaf-spring.
BRAKES Heavy duty, 11 in (280 mm)
REAR STYLING drums, with optional front discs.
Buttress-backed styling was Americas version of a European MAXIMUM SPEED 150 mph (241 km/h)
2+2 sports coupe. Ads called the Charger a beautiful 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6 sec
screamer, which was aimed at a rugged type of individual. 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 13.3 sec
Profile is all agression, with lantern-jawed lines, mock vents on A.F.C. 10 mpg (3.5 km/l)
the doors, bumblebee stripes and twin exhausts that roared.

SEATS SOFT INTERIOR


Bucket seats were de Chargers were also for those who
rigueur at the time. like it soft inside. All had standard
clock, heater, and cigarette lighter.
SECURITY
The chrome, quick-fill,
racing-style gas cap was
attached to the car by wire
to stop souvenir hunters.

TIRES
Transferring all the power
to the road required ultra-
wide 235x14 tires.
214 Dodge Charger R/T

INTERIOR COLORS
The standard R/T cockpit is Choices originally
functional to the point of being included Plum
stark. No distractions here Crazy, Go Mango,
just a matte black dash with six and Top Banana.
gauges that included a 150 mph
(241 km/h) speedometer.

STEERING WHEEL
Huge steering wheel was
essential for keeping all
that grunt in a straight line.

FUEL
The gargantuan
engine returned
just 10 mpg
(3.5 km/l).

LIGHTS
Hazard warning
lights were groovy
features for 1967.
Dodge Charger R/T 215

STAR OF THE SCREEN


A car with star quality, the Charger featured in
the classic nine-minute chase sequence in the
film Bullitt. It also had major roles in the 1970s
cult movie Vanishing Point, and the television
series, The Dukes of Hazzard.

ENGINE
The wall-to-wall engine found in the R/T
Charger is Dodges immensely powerful
440 Magnuma 7.2-liter V8. This stump-
pulling power plant produced maximum
torque at a lazy 3200 rpm
making it obscenely
quick, yet as docile
as a kitten in
town traffic.

HEADLIGHTS
These were hidden under
electric flaps to give the
Charger a sinister grin.
216 Edsel Bermuda

E DSEL Bermuda
WITHOUT THAT INFAMOUS GRILLE, the Bermuda wouldnt have been a bad old
barge. The rest looked pretty safe and suburban, and even those faddish rear lights
werent that offensive. At $3,155 it was the top Edsel wagon, wooing the WASPs
with more mock wood than Disneyland. But Ford had oversold the Edsel big time,
and every model suffered guilt by association. Initial sales in 1957 were nothing like
the predicted 200,000, but werent disastrous either. The Bermudas, though, found
just 2,235 buyers and were discontinued after only one year. By 58, people no
longer believed the hype, and Edsel sales evaporated; the company went out of
business in November 1959. Everybody knew that the 58 recession killed the
Edsel, but at Ford, major players in the project were cruelly demoted or fired.

ANTENNA
ODD STYLING Push-button radio with manual
Looking back, one wonders how one of the most antenna was an expensive
powerful corporations in the world could possibly $95 option.
have signed off on such a stylistic debacle. 58
Edsels werent just ugly, they were appallingly
weird. The Bermudas side view, however, is
innocuous enough and no worse than many half-
timbered shopping-mall wagons of the period.

FORD WHEELBASE
Edsel wagons were based on
the 116 in (295 cm) Ford
station wagon platform.
Edsel Bermuda 217

FRONT ASPECT STEERING


The grille was so prominent 49 percent of
that it required separate flanking all Edsels had
bumpers. The Edsel mascot power steering.
adorns the front of the hood;
the name was chosen from
6,000 possibilities, including
Mongoose, Turcotinga, and
Utopian Turtletop.

COLOR CHOICE
This Bermuda is
painted in Spring
Green, but buyers had a
choice of 161 different
color combinations.

ROOF KINK
Note how the roof
is slightly kinked
to give the huge
panel extra rigidity.

FUEL FIGURES
Not surprisingly for a station wagon
this size, fuel consumption wasnt
great at 15 mpg (5.3 km/l).
218 Edsel Bermuda

AUTO CHOICE
92 percent of all Edsels
had automatic
transmission at $231.

INNER FEATURES
All wagons had four armrests,
two coat hooks, dome lights,
and white vinyl roof lining.

ROOMY AND RARE


The nine-passenger Bermuda is
the rarest of all 58 Edsels, with
just 779 built. Bermudas had
innovative one-third/two-third
design front seats and had acres
of storage space.

REAR VIEW
Zany boomerang rear light
clusters contained turn signal,
stop, and backup lights.
Despite later criticism of the
models design, advance
publicity ensured that 4,000
Edsels were sold when they
were launched on Edsel Day,
September 4, 1957.
Edsel Bermuda 219

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Edsel Bermuda (1958)


PRODUCTION 1,456 (1958, six-seater
Bermudas)
BODY STYLE Four-door, six-seater
station wagon.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINE 361cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 303 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual
with optional overdrive, optional
three-speed automatic with or
without Teletouch control.
SUSPENSION Front: independent
coil springs; Rear: leaf springs with
live axle.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 108 mph (174 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 10.2 sec
A.F.C. 15 mpg (5.3 km/l)
SUSPENSION
Rear suspension was
by leaf springs.

TELETOUCH
Teletouch button
sent a signal
to the cars
precision brain.

ENGINE INTERIOR
Theyre the industrys newestand the Never one of Edsels strongest
best, cried the advertising. Edsel engines selling points, the Teletouch
were strong 361 or 410cid V8s, with the gear selector was operated by
station wagons usually powered by the push buttons in the center of
smaller unit. The E400 on the valve covers the steering wheel. It was
indicates the units amount of torque. gimmicky and unreliable.
220 Edsel Corsair

E D S E L Corsair
BY 1959 AMERICA HAD LOST HER confidence; the economy nose-dived, Russia was
first in space, there were race riots in Little Rock, and Ford was counting the cost
of its disastrous Edsel projectclose to 400 million dollars. The Edsel look
is here to stay brayed the ads, but the bold new vertical grille had become a
countrywide joke. Sales didnt just die, they never took off, and those who had been
rash enough to buy hid their chromium follies in suburban garages. Eisenhowers
mantra of materialism was over, and buyers wanted to know more about economical
compacts like the Nash Rambler, Studebaker Lark, and novel VW Beetle. Throw
in a confusing 18-model lineup, poor build quality, and disenchanted dealers, and
The Newest Thing on Wheels never stood a chance. Now famous as a powerful
symbol of failure, the Edsel stands as a telling memorial to the foolishness of
consumer culture in Fifties America.
DOOR MIRROR
A REHASHED FORD The hooded chrome door mirror
By 1959, the Corsair had become just a restyled was remote-controlled, an extremely
Ranger, based on the Ford Fairlane. Corsairs had rare aftermarket option.
bigger motors and more standard equipment. But
even a sticker price of $3,000 for the convertible
didnt help sales, which were a miserable model year
total of 45,000. Ford was desperate and tried to sell
it as A new kind of car that makes sense.

V8 FAVORITE
77 percent of all
1959 Edsels were
powered by V8s.
Edsel Corsair 221

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Edsel Corsair Convertible (1959)


PRODUCTION 1,343 (1959)
BODY STYLE Four-seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINES 332cid, 361cid V8s.
POWER OUTPUT 225303 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual with
optional overdrive, optional two- or three-
speed Mile-O-Matic automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: independent with
coil springs; Rear: leaf springs with
EMPTY ADVERTISING live axle.
Fords Edsel arrived in 1957 on the back of intense BRAKES Front and rear drums.
TV and magazine coverage. But by the time it hit the MAXIMUM SPEED 95105 mph
(153169 km/h)
showrooms, the market had done a volte-face and wanted 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 1116 sec
more than just empty chromium rhetoric. A.F.C. 15 mpg (5.3 km/l)

DECORATION
RARE STYLE The dominating chrome and
Corsair Convertibles are white sweepspear that runs the COLOR
the rarest 59 Edsels, entire length of the car makes Petal Yellow was
with only 1,343 leaving the rear deck look heavy. one of 17 possible
the Louisville plant. exterior colors.

WHEEL COVERS
Color-coded wheel
covers cost $16.
222 Edsel Corsair

TOILET SEAT STYLING


Roy Brown, the Edsels designer,
claimed that The front theme
of our newest car combines
nostalgia with modern vertical
thrust. Other pundits were
not so positive and
compared it to a
horse collar, a man
sucking a lemon, or
even a toilet seat.

WEIGHT
Weighing in at a
considerable 3,790
lb (1,719 kg) the
convertible was
heavier than
the sedan.
Edsel Corsair 223

CHASSIS
The substantial steel girder chassis
incorporated full-length side rails and
five cross-members. It was hauled along
by either an Edsel Express 332cid V8
producing 225 bhp or a Super Express
361cid V8 developing 303 bhp.

FRAME
Guardrail frame
design with full-
length side rails.

INSIDE THE EDSEL


The dashboard was cleaned up for 1959
and the unreliable Teletouch transmission
deleted in favor of a Mile-O-Matic two-
speed with column shift. The eight-tube
push-button radio was available for $64.95. SUSPENSION
Ball joint front
suspension.

EDSEL PLANNING
Ford had canvassed public opinion on a new design with
which to challenge GMs dominance as far back as 1954 and
named the new project the E (experimental) Car. By the
time it appeared, it was a ridiculous leviathan.
224 Facel Vega II

FA C E L Vega II
WHEN SOMEONE LIKE PABLO PICASSO chooses a car, it is going to look good. In its
day, the Facel II was a poem in steel and easily as beautiful as anything turned out
by the Italian styling houses. Small wonder then that Facels were synonymous with
the Sixties jet set. Driven by Ringo Starr, Ava Gardner, Danny Kaye, Tony Curtis,
Franois Truffaut, and Joan Fontaine, Facels were one of the most charismatic cars
of the day. Even death gave them glamour; the novelist Albert Camus died while
being passengered in his publishers FVS in January 1960. In 1961, the HK 500
was reskinned and given cleaner lines, an extra 6 in (15 cm) in length, and dubbed
the Facel II. At 1.5 tons, the II was lighter than the 500 and could storm to
140 mph (225 km/h). Costing more than the contemporary Aston Martin DB4
(see pages 3235) and Maserati 3500, the Facel II was as immortal as a Duesenberg,
Hispano Suiza, or Delahaye. We will never see its like again.

HANDCRAFTED SUPERCAR
In terms of finish, image, and quality, REAR SEATING
Facel Vegas were one of the most The leather backseat
successful handmade supercars. Body folded down to make a
joints were perfectly flush, doors luggage platform.
closed like heavy vaults, brightwork
was stainless steel, and even the roof
line was fabricated from five
seamlessly joined sections.

BUMPER
Bumper is not chrome
but rust-resistant
stainless steel.
Facel Vega II 225

TOP VIEW
SUNROOF Facel II used the same wheelbase and engine POWER BULGE
Fabric, roll-back, full- as the HK 500, but the shape was refined to Prodigious hood
length sunroof was a period make it look more modern, losing such bulge cleared air cleaners
aftermarket accessory. cliches as the dated wraparound windshield. and twin carbs.

GEARBOX
Manual Pont-a-Mousson FUEL CONSUMPTION
gearbox began life in a truck. Driven fast, the Facel II
would drink one gallon of
fuel every 10 miles.

SPINNERS
Knockoff wheel
spinners.
226 Facel Vega II

REAR VISIBILITY
The enlarged rear window gave a
much greater glass area than the HK
500 and almost 90 percent visibility,
helped by slimmer pillars.

MANUFACTURERS
In the 50s, Facel made
motor scooters, jet
engines, office furniture,
and kitchen cabinets.

DIMENSIONS
At 1.5 tons (30 cwt), 15 ft (4.57 m) long, 6 ft (1.83 m)
wide, and only 4 ft 3 in (1.3 m) high, the Facel II aped the
girth and bulk of contemporary American iron.

SUSPENSION
Selectaride shock
absorbers provided a
comfortable ride.

DOMINATING GRILLE
The intimidating frontage
is all grille, because the
hot-running V8 engine
needed all the cooling air it
could get. HK 500 had four
INTERIOR round headlights, but the
Steering wheel points straight to the drivers Facel IIs voguish stacked
heart. Note the unmistakable aircraft-type lights were shamelessly
panel layout with center gauges and heater culled from contemporary
controls like hand throttles. Mercedes sedans.
Facel Vega II 227

SMOOTH LIGHTING
SPECIFICATIONS
Brake-indicator lights are cut out
of the rear fenders and help to MODEL Facel Vega Facel II (196264)
enhance the Facels seamless lines. PRODUCTION 184
To achieve this stunning one- BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater
piece look, the cars light alloy Grand Tourer.
body panels were hand finished CONSTRUCTION Steel chassis, steel/light
and mated to each other. alloy body.
ENGINE 6286cc cast-iron V8.
BODY STYLING RARE MOTOR POWER OUTPUT 390 bhp at 5400 rpm
Rakish body was By far the rarest Facel with only (manual), 355 bhp at 4800 rpm (auto).
artistically similar to 184 made, IIs are still fiercely TRANSMISSION Three-speed TorqueFlite
the Facellia Coupe. admired by Facel fanciers. auto or four-speed Pont-a-Mousson manual.
SUSPENSION Independent front coil
springs, rear live axle leaf springs.
BRAKES Four-wheel Dunlop discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 149 mph (240 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.3 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 17.0 sec
A.F.C. 15 mpg (5.4 km/l)

HOOD
Hood lid was
huge, but then so
was the engine.

BRAKES
Disc brakes all-
around countered
the Facels
immense power.
228 Ferrari 250 GT SWB

F ERRARI 250 GT SWB


IN AN ERA WHEN FERRARI WAS turning out some lackluster road cars, the 250 GT
SWB became a yardstick, the car against which all other GTs were judged and
one of the finest Ferraris ever. Of the 167 made between 1959 and 1962, 74 were
competition carstheir simplicity made them one of the most competitive sports
racers of the Fifties. Built around a tubular chassis, the V12 3.0 engine lives at the
front, along with a simple four-speed gearbox with Porsche internals. But it is that
delectable Pininfarina-sculpted shape that is so special. Tense, urgent, but friendly,
those smooth lines have none of the intimidating presence of a Testarossa or
Daytona. The SWB stands alone as a perfect blend of form and function one
of the worlds prettiest cars, and on the track one of the most successful. The SWB
won races from Spa to Le Mans, Nassau to the Nrburgring. Which is exactly what
Enzo Ferrari wanted. They are cars, he said, which the sporting client can use
on the road during the week and race on Sundays. Happy days.

DESIGN CREDITS NO CLEANERS AIR SCOOPS


Soft, compact, and rounded, Pininfarina Instead of air cleaners, Fender air scoops helped
executed the design, while Scaglietti competition cars used to cool the engine.
took care of the sheet metal. The result filterless air trumpets.
was one of the most charismatic
cars ever produced.

NOSE
Gently tapering nose
is a masterpiece of
thepanel-beaters art.
Ferrari 250 GT SWB 229

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Ferrari 250 GT SWB (195962)


PRODUCTION 167 (10 RHD)
BODY STYLE Two-seater GT coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Tubular chassis with
all-alloy or alloy/steel body.
ENGINE 2953cc V12.
POWER OUTPUT 280 bhp at 7000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Independent front
coil and wishbones, rear live axle
leaf springs.
ENGINE BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
The V12 power unit had a seven-bearing crankshaft MAXIMUM SPEED 147 mph (237 km/h)
turned from a solid billet of steel, single plug per 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.6 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 16.2 sec
cylinder, and three twin-choke Weber DCL3 or
A.F.C. 12 mpg (4.2 km/l)
DCL6 carburetors.

REAR WINDOW
Expansive rear window sat
above enormous 27-gallon
(123-liter) fuel tank.

WHEELS
The SWB sat on elegant,
chrome-plated Borrani
competition wire wheels.
230 Ferrari 250 GT SWB

OVERHEAD VIEW
The car has perfect balance. Shape
is rounded and fluid, and the first
11 SWBs were built in alloy,
though these rare lightweight
models suffered from stretching
alloy. Road cars had a steel body
and aluminum hood and doors.

STRAP EM IN
The 250s roll cage and modern
seat belts were nods to safety,
but understandable considering
that progressively
more power was UNDERSTATED BEAUTY
extracted from The 250 GT is a polished gem,
the V12 engine. hugging the road limpet low.
Front combines beauty and
threat with steely grin and
squat wheel-arch-filling
attitude. Nothing is
exaggerated for effect.

ROAD PROTECTION
Unlike this race car, road
cars had vestigial front
bumpers and the prancing
horse badge in the grille.
Ferrari 250 GT SWB 231

INTERIOR
Despite the movie star exterior, the
interior is a place of work. Functional
dash is basic black with no frills. Sun
visors were notably absent. The cockpit
was snug and airy but noisy when
GAS CAP the key was turned.
Huge alloy gas
cap was to allow
fast fill-ups.

RACING STATEMENT
Two sets of aggressive
drainpipe twin exhausts
dominate the SWBs
rump and declare its
competition bloodline.
For many years the 250
GT dominated hill climbs
and track meets all over
the world. The SWB 250
GT was the ultimate racer.
232 Ferrari 275 GTB/4

F ERRARI 275 GTB/4 SPECIFICATIONS

THE GTB/4 WAS a hybrid made for two short MODEL Ferrari 275 GTB/4 (196668)
PRODUCTION 350
years from 1966 to 1968. With just 350 built, a mere BODY STYLE Two-seater front-engined
27 in right-hand drive, it was not one of Ferraris coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel chassis,
moneymakers. So named for its four camshafts, aluminium body.
the GTB still ranks as the finest road car Ferrari ENGINE 3.3-liter twin overhead-cam
dry sump V12.
produced before Fiat took control of the company. POWER OUTPUT 300 bhp at 8000 rpm.
With fully independent suspension, a five-speed TRANSMISSION Five-speed
gearbox, and a fetching Pininfarina-designed and all-synchromesh.
SUSPENSION All-around independent.
Scaglietti-built body, it was the last of the proper BRAKES Four-wheel servo discs.
Berlinettas. Nimble and compact, with neutral MAXIMUM SPEED 160 mph (257 km/h)
handling and stunning design, this is probably 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.5 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 13 sec
one of the most desirable Ferraris ever made. A.F.C. 12 mpg (4.2 km/l)

THE MECHANICS A MOTORING BEAUTY


This was Ferraris first ever The GTB/4 is prettier
production four-cam V12 than an E-Type (see pages
engine and their first road- 30609), Aston Martin
going prancing horse with DB4 (see pages 3235), or
an independent rear end. Lamborghini Miura (see
The type 226 engine was pages 31821). The small
related to the 330 P2 trunk, small cockpit, and
prototypes of the 1965 long nose are classic
racing season. The Pininfarina stylingan
GTB/4s chassis is made arresting amalgam of
up of a ladder frame beauty and brawn. The
built around two oval- interior, though, is trimmed
tube members. in unluxurious vinyl.
Ferrari Daytona 233

F ERRARI Daytona
THE CLASSICALLY sculptured and outrageously quick
Daytona was a supercar with a split personality.
Under 120 mph (193 km/h), it felt like a truck with
heavy inert controls and crashing suspension. But
once the needle was heading for 140 mph (225
km/h), things started to sparkle. With a romantic POEM IN STEEL
flat-out maximum of 170 mph (280 km/h), it was A poem in steel, only a handful of
the last of the great front-engined V12 war horses. other cars could be considered in the
same aesthetic league as the Daytona.
Launched at the 1968 Paris Salon as the 365 GTB/4,
the press immediately named it Daytona in honor SPECIFICATIONS
of Ferraris success at the 1967 24-hour race. Faster
than all its Italian and British contemporaries, the MODEL Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona
(196873)
chisel-nosed Ferrari won laurels on the racetrack PRODUCTION 1,426 (165 RHD)
as well as the hearts and pockets of wealthy BODY STYLE Two-seater fastback.
enthusiasts all over the world. CONSTRUCTION Steel/alloy/fiberglass
body, separate multitube chassis frame.
ENGINE V12 4390cc.
POWER OUTPUT 352 bhp at 7500 rpm.
INSIDE AND OUT
TRANSMISSION Five-speed
With hammock-type racing seats, all-synchromesh.
a cornucopia of black-on-white SUSPENSION Independent front
instruments, and a provocatively and rear.
angled, extralong gear shift, the BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
cabin promises some serious MAXIMUM SPEED 174 mph (280 km/h)
excitement. Beneath the exterior is 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.4 sec
a skeleton of chrome-molybdenum 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 12.8 sec
tube members, giving enormous A.F.C. 14 mpg (5 km/l)
rigidity and strength.
234 Ferrari Dino 246 GT

F ERRARI Dino 246 GT


PRETTY ENOUGH TO STOP a speeding train, the Dino came not from Enzo Ferraris
head, but from his heart. The Dino was a tribute to the great mans love for his son,
Alfredino, who died of a kidney disease. Aimed at the Porsche 911 buyer (see pages
42021), the 246 Dino engine came with only half the number of cylinders usually
found in a Ferrari. Instead of a V12 configuration, it boasted a 2.4-liter V6 engine,
yet was nonetheless capable of a very Ferrarilike 150 mph (241 km/h). With sparkling
performance, small girth, and mid-engined layout, it handled like a go-kart, and could
be hustled around with enormous aplomb. Beautifully sculpted by Pininfarina the 246
won worldwide acclaim as the high point of 1970s automotive styling. In its day, it
was among the most fashionable cars money could buy. The rarest Dino is the GTS,
with Targa detachable roof panel. The Dinos finest hour was when it was driven by
Tony Curtis in the Seventies British television series The Persuaders.
AERODYNAMICS
BODY CONSTRUCTION The sleek aerodynamic shape of
Early Dinos were constructed from alloy, later the roof line helped to give the car
ones from steel, with the bodies built by Italian its impressively high top speed.
designer Scaglietti. Unfortunately, little attention
was paid to rust protection. Vulnerable interior
body joints and cavities were covered with
only a very thin coat of paint.

TIRES
Wide tires were
essential to deliver the
Dinos lithe handling.
Ferrari Dino 246 GT 235

WINDSHIELD REAR ENGINE


Windshields do not The transversely mounted 2418cc
come much more V6 has four overhead cams, a four-
steeply raked than bearing crankshaft, and breathes
this one. through three twin-choke Weber
40 DCF carburetors. Power output
is 195 bhp. This particular engines
distinctive throaty roar is
a Ferrari legend.

DINO PRICES
Prices went crazy in the Eighties,
but are now half that value.
236 Ferrari Dino 246 GT

ENGINE POSITION
The engine is positioned in the middle of
the car, which gives mechanics little space
to work in. The spare wheel and battery are
located under the hood in the
front, leaving very little room
to carry extras such as
luggage. Optional perspex
headlight cowls can increase
the Dinos top speed by
3 mph (5 km/h).

BADGING
246s wore the Dino
SPECIFICATIONS badge on the nose,
never the Ferraris
MODEL Ferrari Dino 246 GT (196974) prancing horse.
PRODUCTION 2,487
BODY STYLE Two-door, two seater.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body, tubular frame.
ENGINE Transverse V6/2.4 liter.
POWER OUTPUT 195 bhp at 5000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed, all-
synchromesh.
SUSPENSION Independent front and rear.
BRAKES Ventilated discs all around.
MAXIMUM SPEED 148 mph (238 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.1 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 17.6 sec
A.F.C. 22 mpg (7.8 km/l)

CURVY ITALIAN
The sensuous curves are unmistakably supplied
by Ferrari. The Ferrari badge and prancing horse
were fitted by a later owner. The thin original
paint job means that most surviving Dinos will
have had at least one body rebuild by now.
Ferrari Dino 246 GT 237

INTERIOR
The dashboard is suede and strewn with switches,
while the cramped-looking interior is actually an
ergonomic triumph. Though the cockpit is hot
and noisy, that has not detracted from the cars
popularity. Shifting the gearbox though its chrome
gate is much like spooning honey.

GEAR LEVER
Five-speed all-
synchromesh gearbox.

COLOR
Metallic brown is a
rare color75 percent
of Dinos were red.

FIAT LIGHTING
Lights and electrics
were supplied by Fiat,
which owns Ferrari.

EXHAUSTS
Four exhausts mean
the V6 sounds almost
as musical as a V12.
238 Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer

F ERRARI 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer


THE BERLINETTA BOXER WAS meant to be the jewel in Ferraris crownone of the
fastest GT cars ever. Replacing the legendary V12 Ferrari Daytona (see page 233),
the 365 BB was powered by a flat-12 Boxer engine, so named for the image of
the horizontally located pistons punching at their opposite numbers. Mid-engined,
with a tubular chassis frame and clothed in a peerless Pininfarina-designed body
(a mixture of alloy, fiberglass, and steel), the 365 was assembled by Scaglietti in
Modena. First unveiled in 1971 at the Turin Motor Show, the formidable 4.4-liter
380 bhp Boxer was so complex that deliveries to buyers did not start until 1973.
The trouble was that Ferrari had suggested that the Boxer could top 185 mph
(298 km/h), when it could actually only manage around 170 mph (274 km/h), slightly
slower than the outgoing Daytona. In 1976, Ferrari replaced the 365 with the five-
liter Boxer 512, yet the 365 is the faster and rarer model, with only 387 built.

CLASSIC MONEY FUEL CAPACITY


In the classic car boom of the mid- The Boxer could carry
Eighties, Boxers changed hands for crazy 26 gallons (120 liters)
money. The 512 tripled in value before of gasoline.
the stock market crash, with the 365
doubling. Now both machines are
backto realistic levels.

BRAKES
Ventilated disc
brakes were needed
to halt the Boxer.
Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer 239
ENGINE POSITION EXHAUSTS
The entire engine/ Not many other
drivetrain ensemble was production road cars
positioned longitudinally came with six exhausts.
behind the cockpit.

FERRARI FIRST
The 365 Boxer was the first mid-engined 12-cylinder
production car to carry the Ferrari name. TIRES
ANTENNA Cylinder heads were light alloy, holding two camshafts The Boxer was shod
Antenna for the each. Fuel was supplied by two electrical pumps into with ultrawide
radio was set in the four triple-throat Weber carburetors. Michelin XWX
windshield. 215/70 tires.
BODY SHAPE
Ferraris aerodynamic styling LOW-SLUNG POSITION
meant that the Boxer had a The Boxer engine layout was
very low drag coefficient. favoredbecause it allowed the whole
car to sit that much lower, giving
better aerodynamics and a lower
center of gravity.

WHEELS
Wheels were the same as on
the Daytonacast alloy.
240 Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer

PROTOTYPE TESTING
A handful of Boxer prototypes were
subject to extensive testing. Preproduction
cars were recognizable by a number of
differences, one being the roof-mounted
radio antennafactory cars had them
enclosed in the windshield. Pininfarinas
shape went virtually unchanged from the
prototype into the production version.

INTERIOR
An amalgam of racer and grand tourer,
the Boxers cabin was functional yet
luxurious, with electric windows and
air-conditioning. Switches for these
were positioned on the console
beneath the gear lever.

CENTER CONSOLE
The rear-mounted gearbox
meant that only a small
transmission tunnel was
needed, saving cabin room.
Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer 241

ENGINE
A magnificent piece of SPECIFICATIONS
foundry art, the flat-12
has a crankshaft machined MODEL Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer
(197376)
from a solid billet of
PRODUCTION 387 (58 RHD models)
chrome-molybdenum steel.
BODY STYLE Two-seater sports.
Instead of timing chains, the
CONSTRUCTION Tubular space-frame
365 used toothed composite chassis.
belts, an innovation in 1973. ENGINE 4.4-liter flat-12.
POWER OUTPUT 380 bhp at 7700 rpm.
CYLINDERS TRANSMISSION Five-speed all
synchromesh, rear-mounted gearbox.
The Boxer had
SUSPENSION Independent front and rear.
twin oil filters,
BRAKES Ventilated front and rear discs.
one for each bank
MAXIMUM SPEED 172 mph (277 km/h)
of six cylinders.
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.5 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 15 sec
A.F.C. 14 mpg (4.2 km/l)

COOLING VENT
Slatted hood cooling
vent helped keep
interior cabin
temperatures down.

CHASSIS
The Boxers chassis was
derived from the Dino
(seepages 23437),
with a frame of steel tubes
and doors, oil pan, and
nose in aluminum.

LOWER BODYWORK
This was fiberglass,
along with the wheel-
arch liners and bumpers.
242 Ferrari 308 GTB

F ERRARI 308 GTB SPECIFICATIONS

ONE OF THE best-selling Ferraris ever, the 308 MODEL Ferrari 308 GTB (197585)
PRODUCTION 712 (308 GTB fiberglass);
GTB started life with a fiberglass body designed 2,185 (308 GTB steel); 3,219 (GTS)
by Pininfarina and built by Scaglietti. Power was BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater
sports coupe.
courtesy of the V8 3.0engine and five-speed gearbox CONSTRUCTION Fiberglass/steel.
inherited from the 308 GT4. With uptown America ENGINE Mid-mounted transverse dohc
2926cc V8.
as the GTBs target market, federal emission POWER OUTPUT 255 bhp at 7600 rpm.
regulations made the GTB clean up its act, evolving TRANSMISSION Five-speed manual.
into a refined and civilized machine with such hi-tech SUSPENSION Independent double
wishbones/coil springs all around.
appurtenances as four valves per cylinder and Bosch BRAKES Ventilated discs all around.
fuel injection. Practical and tractable in traffic, it MAXIMUM SPEED 154 mph (248 km/h)
became the 1980s entry-levelFerrari, supplanting 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.3 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 19.8 sec
the Porsche 911 (see pages 42021) as the standard A.F.C. 16 mpg (5.7 km/l)
issue yuppiemobile.

MIXED STYLING CUES FRONT ASPECT


The handsome styling is a With the engine at the
blend of Dino 246 and 365 back, the wide slatted
GT4. The Dino provided grille scooped up air
concave rear windows and for brake and interior
conical air intakes, while ventilation. Retractable,
the 365 brought double flush-fitting pop-up
bodyshell appearance headlights keep wind force
with a waistline groove. down on the nose and
The 2926cc V8 has double front wheels. The roof
overhead cams per bank on the GTB was always
and four 40 DCNF a tin top; the chic GTS
Weber carburetors. had a Targa top panel.
Ferrari 400 GT 243

F ERRARI 400 GT SPECIFICATIONS

THE FIRST Ferrari ever offered with automatic MODEL Ferrari 400 GT (197679)
PRODUCTION 501
transmission, the 400 was aimed at the American BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater
market, and was meant to take the prancing horse sports sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Steel/alloy body, separate
into the boardrooms of Europe and the US. But the tubular chassis frame.
400s automatic box was a most un-Ferrarilike device, ENGINE 4390cc twin ohc V12.
a lazy three-speed GM Turbo-Hydramatic also used POWER OUTPUT 340 bhp at 6800 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed manual
in Cadillac, Rolls-Royce, and Jaguar. It may have been or three-speed automatic.
the best self-shifter in the world, but it was a radical SUSPENSION Independent double
wishbones with coil springs, rear as front
departure for Maranello, and met with only modest with hydro-pneumatic self-leveling.
success. The 400 was possibly the most discreet and BRAKES Four-wheel ventilated discs.
refined Ferrari ever made. It looked awful in Racing MAXIMUM SPEED 150 mph (241 km/h)
0 60 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.1 sec
Redthe color of 70 percent of Ferrarisso most 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 18.7 sec
were finished in dark metallics. The 400 became the A.F.C. 12 mpg (4.2 km/l)
400i GT in 1973 and the 412 in 1985.

365 SIMILARITIES
Apart from the delicate chin
spoiler and bolt-on alloys, the
shape was pure 365 GT4 2+2.
The rectangular design of
the body was lightened
by a plunging hood line
and a waist-length
indentation running
along the 400s flanks.

HEADLIGHTS
Four headlights
were retracted into
the bodywork
by electric motors.
244 Ferrari Testarossa

F ERRARI Testarossa
THE TESTAROSSA WAS never one of Modenas best efforts. With its enormous
girth and overstuffed appearance, it perfectly sums up the Eighties credo of
excess. As soon as it appeared on the worlds television screens in Miami Vice,
the Testarossa, or Redhead, became a symbol of everything that was wrong
with a decade of rampant materialism and greed. The Testarossa fell from grace
rather suddenly. Dilettante speculators bought them new at $150,000-odd and
ballyhooed their values up to a quarter of a million. By 1988, secondhand
values were slipping badly, and many an investor saw their car shed three-
quarters of its value overnight. Today, used Testarossas are highly prized
with rising prices and growing investment potential.

STYLING
RACING LEGEND Striking radiator cooling ducts obviated
Ferrari bestowed on its new creation one of the need to pass water from the front
the grandest names from its racing pastthe radiator to the mid-mounted engine,
250 Testa Rossa, of which only 19 were built freeing the front luggage compartment.
for retail customers. Design of the new model
was determined with the help of Pininfarinas
full-sized wind tunnel, but enthusiasts were
initially cool about the Testarossas
size and shape.
Ferrari Testarossa 245

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Ferrari Testarossa (1988)


PRODUCTION 1,074
BODY STYLE Mid-engined, two-seater
sports coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel frame with
aluminum and fiberglass panels.
ENGINE Flat-12, 4942cc with dry
sump lubrication.
POWER OUTPUT 390 bhp at 6300 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Independent front
and rear.
BRAKES Front: disc; Rear: drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 181 mph (291 km/h)
WIDE SUPERCAR
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.3 sec
Wider than the Ferrari 512 BB, the Corvette
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 12.2 sec
(see pages 14245), and the Countach (see pages 32225),
A.F.C. 12 mpg (4.2 km/l)
it measured a portly 6 ft (1.83 m) across. While this
meant a bigger cockpit, the ultrawide door sills
collected mud in wet weather.

TIRES AERODYNAMICS
Tires were either Goodyear Front spoiler kept the nose
Eagles or Michelin TRXs. firmly attached to the road
and channeled cooling air to
the front brakes.
246 Ferrari Testarossa

SPACIOUS INTERIOR
The Testarossas large body meant plenty
of cabin space, with more room for both
occupants and luggage. Even so, interior
trim was flimsy and looked tired after
70,000 miles (112,000 km).

DOOR MIRRORS REARVIEW MIRROR


Prominent door mirrors on both The curious, periscopelike
sides gave the Testarossa an rearview mirror was
extra 8 in (20 cm) in width. developed by Pininfarina. COCKPIT
The cockpit was restrained and
spartan, with a hand-stitched
leather dashboard and little
distracting ornamentation. For
once a Ferraris cockpit was
accommodating,
with electrically
adjustable leather
seats and air-
conditioning
as standard.

REAR TREATMENT
Pininfarinas grille
treatment was picked up
on the rear end, giving
stylistic continuity.
Ferrari Testarossa 247

TRADITIONAL TOUCHES
Despite the modern external styling,
traditional touches remained inside the
carthe classic Ferrari gearshift, with
its chrome gate, and prancing horse
steering-wheel boss were ever-present.

STORAGE
Mid-engined format
allowed storage space
in the front.

REAR FENDER VENTS


Borrowed from Grand Prix racing
experience, these cheese-slicer cooling
ducts are for the twin radiators, located
forward of the rear wheels to
keep heat away from
the cockpit.
ORIGINAL GRILLES
The Testarossas distinctive
side grilles are now
among the most widely
imitated styling features.

ENGINE
The flat-12 mid-mounted engine
had a 4942cc capacity and produced
390 bhp at 6300 rpm. With four
valves per cylinder, coil ignition,
and fuel injection, it was one of
the very last flat-12 GTs.
248 Ferrari 456 GT

F ERRARI 456 GT
A USED FERRARI 456 is one of the worlds great supercar bargains. For the price
of a new, hot Ford Focus you can have a beautiful 186 mph (300 km/h) grand
tourer thats also a reliable and practical full four-seater. Strong and capable with
a fine ride and a glorious V12 engine, the 456 is a definite neoclassic. Launched
in 1992 to replace the unloved Mondial, it was the fastest production 2+2 on
the planet and, apart from the F40, the most powerful road car developed by
Ferrari. Slippery and handsome with a carbon-fiber hood, pop-up headlamps,
a glorious six-speed gearbox plus an automatic option, the 456 looked and felt
like a Daytona for a fraction of the price. More importantly, the 456 was that
rare thinga Ferrari with quiet class.

SMART WINDOWS
A POEM IN ALLOY Electric windows moved down
The body was alloy, spot-welded to a steel tubular slightly when you opened the doors.
chassis using Feran filler, and was shaped by extensive
wind tunnel testing. The rear wing was electronically
retractable to give extra down force at speed.
Luggage space was generous, and the
optional special fitted leather
luggage set cost about the
same as a small car.
Ferrari 456 GT 249

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Ferrari 456 GT (1992)


PRODUCTION 3,289
BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Alloy panels, tubular steel
chassis, composite hood.
ENGINE 5,474cc, V12.
POWER OUTPUT 436 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Six-speed transaxle manual.
SUSPENSION Independent all around.
BRAKES Four-wheel ventilated discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 186 mph (300 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 11.6 sec
A.F.C. 15 mpg (6.4 km/l)
BEAUTY BOX
The six-speed transaxle manual gearbox lived at the rear and was
an engineering gem, lubricated by its own pump and radiator.
GTA had a hydraulic four-speed automatic managed by twin
Bosch computers. Chrome gear gate, alloy shifter, and precise HIGH LIGHTS
action means that manual 456s are worth more than autos. 456 was the last
Ferrari to have
ELEGANT INTERIOR V12 WARHORSE retractable headlights.
Cabin was high quality Brilliant alloy 5.5 liter
and much better than V12 engine cranked
previous Ferraris. out 436 horsepower.
250 Ferrari Enzo

F ERRARI Enzo
THE V12 CARBON-FIBER ENZO is a million-dollar wild child and the most
flamboyant Ferrari ever. Good for 226 mph (364 km/h) and capable of 0100
mph (0161 km/h) in only 6.6 seconds, the initial production run of 349 units
was completely sold out before a single car ever got near a showroom. Ferrari was
forced to build another 50 just to please a line of desperate buyers. Designed by
Ken Okuyama of Pininfarina, some say the Enzo is one of the ugliest cars ever,
but its showstopping looks and dramatic doors (similar to the Lamborghini
Countach (see pages 32225) have guaranteed it automotive immortality, and used
examples often change hands for more than their original new sticker price. As
close as youll get to a road-going F1 car, the Enzo isnt a supercar or a hypercar
it is best described as the original Wonder Car. The last Enzo ever built, the 400th
example, was donated to the Vatican in Rome for charity.

EXPENSIVE EXCESS BASIC ACCOMMODATION


The Enzo was the most Cabin is stark, simple,
expensive Ferrari ever built at and carbon-fiber.
over $1.2 million. An oil change F1 WHEELS
cost $900, and if you were Wheels are F1 style
unlucky (or careless) enough to with single nut.
exceed the 8,500 rev limit a
ruined engine could set you back
$230,000 in repairs! Brake pad
and tire replacement could add
up to $3,800 per corner.
Ferrari Enzo 251
DRAMATIC DOORS AIR SHOVELS
Enormous doors make Massive nostrils cool SPECIFICATIONS
up most of roof area. brakes and keep
nose down. MODEL Ferrari Enzo (2002)
PRODUCTION 400
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Carbon-fiber composite.
ENGINE 5,998cc V12.
POWER OUTPUT 651 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Six-speed F1 paddle shift.
SUSPENSION Independent with push-
rod shockers.
BRAKES Ceramic composite discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 226 mph (363 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 3.2 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 6.6 sec
A.F.C. 11 mpg (4.7 km/l)

FEATHER LIGHT
The Enzo was an automotive lesson in weight saving. The body
panels and tub are composite and carbon-fiber along with the seats,
doors, and even minor switches in the interior. No sound system
was available. Only the McLaren F1 is lighter, but not by much.
ELECTRIC WING
LIGHT BRAKES Rear spoiler is
Even brakes are computer-controlled.
ceramic composite.
252 Ferrari 458 Italia

F ERRARI 458 Italia


THE 458 IS THE FINEST Ferrari ever. A narcotic cocktail of blistering performance,
smooth ride, low-speed tractability, and gorgeous looks won it Car of the Year in
2009. Theres a long waiting list, used prices are firm, and its widely considered
to be the coolest prancing horse ever made by the Italian company. The super-
quick steering takes just two turns lock-to-lock, the dual-clutch, seven-speed
automatic gearbox has no delay, and the 4.5-liter V8 is thunderously fasthitting
100 mph (161 km/h) in just seven seconds. But the 458s ability to trundle
around town at low speeds without any temperament makes it different from
every other supercar. This is a Ferrari you dont have to suffer to own and
one that can genuinely be used every day.
RACING INTERIOR
INCREDIBLE ENGINE Cabin was designed by
The mid-mounted, direct-injection Grand Prix champion
4.5 V8 develops 125 bhp per litera Michael Schumacher.
record for a naturally aspirated piston COLORED CALIPERS
engine. Maximum horsepower is Carbon ceramic
delivered at a screaming 9,000 rpm, brakes have five
and 80 percent of torque is available at caliper color choices.
just 3,250 rpm. The Getrag automatic
gearbox (shared with the Mercedes
SLS) shifts gears in four-tenths of a
second. Sixty mph is on the dial in
only 3.3 seconds.
Ferrari 458 Italia 253

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Ferrari 458 Italia (2009)


PRODUCTION N/A
BODY STYLE Mid-engined, two-
seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Alloy chassis, lightweight
panels.
ENGINE 4,499 cc V8.
POWER OUTPUT 562 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Seven-speed, dual-
clutch automatic.
AIR FORCE
SUSPENSION Twin wishbone, double-link.
Clever vents cool brakes
BRAKES Four-wheel carbon ceramic discs.
and reduce nose lift. MAXIMUM SPEED 202 mph (325 km/h)
BEAUTIFUL THING 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 3.3 sec
One of Pininfarinas prettiest designs, the 458 has an alloy 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 7 sec
chassis bonded using aerospace technology. The underside is flat, A.F.C. 15 mpg (6.4 km/l)
and a raft of aerodynamic styling tweaks provide 309 lb (140 kg)
of down force at speed. Grip and stability are phenomenal.
LONG HERITAGE
Mid-engined configuration UNSPOILED
goes back to Dino 246 Aerodynamic
(see pages 23437). design means no rear
spoiler is needed.
254 Fiat 500D

F IAT 500D
WHEN THE FIAT 500 NUOVA appeared in 1957, longtime Fiat designer
Dante Giacosa defended it by saying, However small it might be, an
automobile will always be more comfortable than a motor scooter. Today
though, the diminutive runabout needs no defense, for time has justified
Giacosas faithover four million 500s and derivatives were produced up
to the demise of the Giardiniera estate in 1977. In some senses the Fiat
was a mini before the British Mini (see pages 4447), for the baby Fiat not
only appeared two years ahead of its British counterpart, but was also
3 in (7.6 cm) shorter. With its 479cc motor, the original 500 Nuova
was rather frantic. 1960 saw it grow to maturity with the launch of the
500D, which was pushed along by its enlarged 499.5cc engine. Now
at last the baby Fiat could almost touch 60 mph (96 km/h) without
being pushed over the edge of a cliff.
SUNROOF SUICIDE DOORS
Some 500s had small You can tell this Fiat is pre-
fold-back sunroofs. On 1965 because of the rear-
convertibles, the fabric roof hinged, so-called suicide
with plastic rear window doors. After that the hinges
rolled right back. moved to the front in line
with more modern practice.

DOORS HOOD
The Giardiniera This houses the gas tank,
station wagon kept battery, and spare tire,
suicide doors until with a little space left for a
its demise in 1977. modest amount of luggage.
Fiat 500D 255
HOT FIAT
Carlo Abarth produced a modified and tuned SPECIFICATIONS
Fiat-Abarth along the lines of the hot Minis
created in Britain by John Cooper. MODEL Fiat 500 (195777)
PRODUCTION 4 million plus (all models)
BODY STYLES Sedan, convertible,
Giardiniera station wagon.
CONSTRUCTION Unitary body/chassis.
ENGINES Two-cylinder air-cooled 479cc
or 499.5cc.
POWER OUTPUT 17.5 bhp at 4400 rpm
(499.5cc).
TRANSMISSION Four-speed non-
synchromesh.
SUSPENSION Front: independent,
transverse leaf, wishbones;
Rear: independent semitrailing
arms, coil springs.
BRAKES Hydraulic drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 59 mph (95 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 32 sec
A.F.C. 53 mpg (19 km/l)

BACK-TO-FRONT
Some rear-engined cars aped
front-engined cousins with
fake grilles and air intakes.
Not the unpretentious Fiat.

CHARMING ITALIAN
This pert little package is big
on charm. From any angle
the baby Fiat seems to
present a happy, smiling
disposition. When it comes
to parking it is a winner,
although accommodation
is a little tight. Two average-
sized adults can fit up
front, but space in the
back is a little more limited.
256 Fiat 500D

DRIVING THE 500


The baby Fiat was a fine little
REAR SPACE drivers car that earned press
Realistic backseat plaudits for its assured and
permutations are two nimble handling. Although top
kiddies, one adult speed was limited, the cars poise
sitting sideways, or a meant you rarely needed to slow
large shopping bag. down on clear roads.

INTERIOR
The Fiat 500s interior is
minimal but functional.
There is no fuel gauge,
just a light that illuminates
when three-quarters
of a gallon remains
enough for another
40 miles (64 km).
Fiat 500D 257

AIR-COOLED REAR
OPEN-TOP VERSION Rear-engined layout, already
Ghia built a Fiat 500- employed in the Fiat 600 of
based open beach car 1955, saved space by removing
called the Jolly the need for a transmission
which mimicked tunnel. The use of an air-
prewar roadsters. cooled engine and only
two cylinders in the 500
was a completely new
direction for Fiat.

MOTOR
All engines were feisty
little devils capable of
indefinite flat-out driving.
258 Ford GT40

F ORD GT40
TO APPLY THE TERM SUPERCAR to the fabled Ford GT40 is to demean it; modern
supercars may be uber cool and ferociously fast, but how many of them actually
won Le Mans outright? The Ford GT40, though, was not only the ultimate road
car but also the ultimate endurance racer of its era, a twin distinction no one else
can match. It was so good that arguments are still going on over its nationality.
Let us call it a joint design project between the American manufacturer and
independent British talent, with a bit of Italian and German input as well. What
matters is that it achieved what it was designed for, claiming the classic Le Mans
24-hour race four times in a row. And there is more to the GT40 than its
Le Mans legend. You could, if you could afford it, drive around quite legally on
public roads in this 200 mph (322 km/h) projectile. Ultimate supercar? No, it
is better than that. Ultimate car? Maybe.

CHANGED APPEARANCE SMALL COCKPIT


The front section is the easiest way to identify The cockpit might be cramped, but
various developments of the GT40. First the GT40s impracticability is all
prototypes had sharp snouts; the squared-off part of its extreme extravagance.
nose, as shown here, first appeared in 1965;
the road-going MkIII was smoother, and the
end-of-line MkIV rounder and flatter.

BRAKES
Ventilated discs
were essential
components.
Ford GT40 259

DOORS
Large doors
almost reach
centre of roof
to ease access.

DESIGN SECRETS
Design of the GT40 was based on an
WINDSHIELD earlier British Lola. Features such as mid-
Panoramic ENGINE POSITION engined layout with gearbox/transaxle at
windshield gave good Engine slotted the rear had by now become standard
forward vision. almost exactly in race-car practice. In Fords favor were the
middle of car. powerful V8, plenty of bucks, and Henry
Ford IIs determination to win Le Mans.
ROAD BUMPERS
This is a racer, but
road cars had tiny
chrome bumpers.
260 Ford GT40

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Ford GT40 MkI, II, III, & IV


(196468)
PRODUCTION 107
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seat coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Sheet-steel monocoque
(honeycomb MkIV), fiberglass body.
ENGINE Ford V8, 4195cc (MkI), 4727cc
(MksI & III), 6997cc (MksII & IV).
POWER OUTPUT From 350 bhp at 7200
rpm (Mk1 4195cc) to 500 bhp
at 5000 rpm (MkIV).
TRANSMISSION Transaxle and four-
or five-speed ZF gearbox.
SUSPENSION Independent by coil springs
and wishbones all around.
BRAKES Ventilated discs all around.
MAXIMUM SPEED 155200 mph
(249322 km/h, depending on gearing)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 4.5 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 8.5 sec
A.F.C. 1216 mpg (4.25.7 km/l)

EXHAUSTS TAIL
SIDE MIRRORS Exhaust note rises from gruff Lip on tail helped
Many race cars bellow to ear-splitting yowl. high-speed stability.
dispensed with side
mirrors.
VITAL STATISTICS
GT, of course, stands for
Grand Touring; 40 for
the cars height in
inches. Overall length
was 13 ft 9 in (4.2 m),
width 5 ft 10 in
(1.78 m), and
unladen weight
1,835 lb (832 kg).

WHEELS
Wheel widths varied
depending on racing
requirements.
Ford GT40 261

WIND EVADER
The graceful and muscular shape was
penned in Fords Dearborn design
studios. Requirements included a
mid-engined layout and aerodynamic
efficiency, vital for burning off
Ferraris on the straights of Le Mans.

NO-FRILLS CABIN
The GT40s cabin was stark and
cramped. Switches and instruments
were pure racer, and the low roof line
meant that tall drivers literally could
not fit in, with the gullwing doors
hitting the drivers head.
REAR VISION
Fuzzy slit above engine cover
gives just enough rear vision to
watch a Ferrari fade away.

STILL WINNING
GT40s can still be
seen in retrospective
events such as the
1994 Tour de France
rally, which the
featured car won.
The British-owned
car proudly displays
the British Racing
Drivers Club badge.

VENTS
Ducts helped hot air
escape from radiator.
262 Ford Thunderbird (1955)

F ORD Thunderbird (1955)


CHEVYS 1954 CORVETTE may have been a peach, but anything GM could do, Ford
could do better. The 55 T-Bird had none of the Vettes fiberglass nonsense, but
a steel body and grunty V8 motor. Plus it was drop-dead gorgeous and offered scores
of options, with the luxury of windup windows. Nobody was surprised when it
outsold the creaky Corvette 24-to-one. But Ford wanted volume, and two-seaters
werent everybodys cup of tea, which is why by 1958 the Little Bird became the
Big Bird, swollen by four fat armchairs. Nevertheless, as the first of Americas top-
selling two-seaters, the Thunderbird fired the publics imagination. For the next
decade American buyers looking for lively power in a stylish package would
greedily devour every Thunderbird going.

NOD TO THE PAST


The styling was very Ford,
penned by Bill Boyer and POWER BULGE
supervised by Frank Hershey. The hood needed a bulge to
The simple, smooth, and clear the large air cleaners.
youthful outer wrapping was a It was stylish too.
huge hit. A rakish long hood and
short rear deck recalled the
1940sLincoln Continental.
Ford Thunderbird (1955) 263

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Ford Thunderbird (1955)


PRODUCTION 16,155 (1955)
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater
convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINE 292cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 193 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual with
optional overdrive, optional three-speed
Ford-O-Matic automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: independent
coil springs; Rear: leaf springs with
INTERIOR live axle.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
Luxury options made the Thunderbird an easygoing
MAXIMUM SPEED 105125 mph
companion. On the list were power steering, windows, (169201 km/h)
and brakes, automatic transmission, and even electric 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 711 sec
seats and a power-assisted top. At $100, the push-button A.F.C. 17 mpg (6 km/l)
radio was more expensive than power steering.
COCKPIT SMOOTH LINES
With the top up, heat from the For 1955, this was an
transmission made for a hot uncharacteristically clean design LENGTH
cockpit; ventilation flaps were and attracted 16,155 buyers in Hardly short, the Little Bird
introduced on 56 and 57 models. its first year of production. measured 175 in (4.4 m).

CLEARANCE
Road clearance
waslimited at just
5 in (12.7 cm).
264 Ford Thunderbird (1955)

ENGINE
The T-Birds motor was the new cast-iron OHV
292cid V8 with dual exhausts and four-barrel Holley
carb. Compared to the Vettes ancient six, the T-Birds
unit offered serious shove. Depending on the state of
tune, a very hot T-Bird could hit 60 in seven seconds.

WINDSHIELD SUCCESSFUL BLOCK


The aeronautical The Thunderbirds V8
windshield profile is played a major role in
beautifully simple. the cars success.
OVERHEAD VIEW
This overhead shot shows that
the T-Bird had a bright and
spirited personality. Today, the
T-Bird is a fiercely prized symbol
of American Fifties utopia. The
5557 Thunderbirds are the
most covetedthe model turned
into a four-seater in 1958.

SIMPLE STYLING
Apart from the rather too
prominent exhausts, the rear
end is remarkably uncluttered.
Hardtops were standard fare
but soft tops could be ordered
as a factory option.
Ford Thunderbird (1955) 265

POWER STEERING
Power steering would only
cost the buyer a bargain $98.

ENGINE OUTPUT
Power output ranged
from 212 to 300 horses.
Buyers could beautify
their motors with a $25
chrome dress-up kit.

T-BIRD NAME
The Thunderbird name was chosen
after a Southwest Native American
god who brought rain and prosperity.
Star owners included the movie
actresses Debbie Reynolds, Marilyn
Monroe, and Jayne Mansfield.
266 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner

F ORD Fairlane 500 Skyliner


FORD RAISED THE ROOF IN 57 with their glitziest range ever, and the Retrac was
a party piece. The worlds only mass-produced retractable hardtop debuted at the
New York Show of 56, and the first production version was presented to a bemused
President Eisenhower in 57. The Skyliners balletic routine was the most talked-about
gadget for years and filled Ford showrooms with thousands of gawking customers.
Surprisingly reliable and actuated by a single switch, the Retracs roof had 610 ft
(185 m) of wiring, three drive motors, and a feast of electrical hardware. But
showmanship apart, the Skyliner was pricey and had precious little trunk space or
leg room. By 59 the novelty had worn off, and division chief Robert McNamaras
desire to end expensive gimmick engineering led to the wackiest car ever to
come out of Dearborn being axed in 1960.
GLASS EXTRA
DECLINING NUMBERS Options included tinted
The Skyliner lived for three years glass, power windows,
but was never a volume seller. power seat, and Styleton
Buyers may have thought it neat, ENGINE CHOICE two-tone paint.
but they were justifiably anxious The Skyliner could
about the roof mechanisms be specified with
reliability. Just under 21,000 were four different V8s
sold in 57, less than 15,000 in ranging from
58, and a miserly 12,915 found 272 to 352cid.
buyers in 59.
Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner 267

SKYLINER COSTS
Ford spent $18 million
testing the Skyliners
roof, and in mechanical
efficiency terms, the
investment paid off.
Ironically, the Retracs
biggest fault wasnt
electrical problems,
but body rust.

INTERIOR
The $19 Lifeguard safety package
included a sun visor and a padded
instrument panel.

REAR PILLAR
With the roof in
place, the chunky
FUEL TANK giveaway rear pillar
This was located behind tells admirers this
the rear seat, not for safety, is a Skyliner.
but because there was
nowhere else to put it.
268 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner

WINDSHIELD
Ill-fitting window
seals were an all-
season annoyance.

CHASSIS
Chassis had to be
modified to leave
room for the tops
control linkage.

TOP OF THE PILE SUSPENSION


At two tons and $3,138, the Skyliner was the heaviest, Though a particularly
priciest, and least practical Ford in the line. The heavy car, rear
Skyliners standard power was a 292cid V8, but this suspension was by
model contains the top-spec Thunderbird 352cid standard leaf springs.
Special V8 with 300 bhp.

TRUNK LID
Trunk lid hinged
from the rear and
folded down over
the retracted roof.

STYLING
The trunk sat higher on Skyliners.
Large circular taillights were
very Thunderbird and became
a modernFord trademark.

REAR VIEW
Fins were down for 59, but missile-shaped pressings
on the higher rear fenders were a neat touch to hide all
that moving metalwork. Supposedly a midsized car, the
Fairlane was the first of the long, low Fords.
Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner 269

TOP UP
With the roof up, the optional Polar-
Aire air-conditioning made sense. Other
extras that could be specified included
tinted glass and, most important for the
Retrac, a 70-amp heavy-duty battery.
Skyliners came with a comprehensive
troubleshooting instruction booklet
along with a very slow and ponderous
manual backup system.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Ford Fairlane 500 Galaxie Skyliner


Retractable (1959)
PRODUCTION 12,915 (1959)
BODY STYLE Two-door hardtop with
retractable roof.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINES 272cid, 292cid, 312cid,
352cid V8s.
POWER OUTPUT 190300 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional three-speed Cruise-O-Matic
automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
Rear: leaf springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 105 mph (169 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 10.6 sec
A.F.C. 15.3 mpg (5.4 km/l)

HOOD PROCEDURE
A switch on the steering column
started three motors that opened the
rear deck. Another motor unlocked the
top, while a further motor hoisted the
roof and sent it back to the open
trunk space. A separate servo then
lowered the rear deck back into place.
It all took just one minute, but had to
be done with the engine running.
270 Ford Galaxie 500XL Sunliner

F ORD Galaxie 500XL Sunliner


IN 62, FORD WAS SELLING its line as Americas liveliest, most carefree cars. And
leading the lively look was the bright-as-a-button new Galaxie. This was General
Manager Lee Iacoccas third year at the helm, and he was pitching for the young-
guy market with speed and muscle. Clean-cut, sleek, and low, the Galaxie line was
just what the boys wanted, and it drove Ford into a new era. The new-for-62
500XL was a real piece, with bucket seats, floor shift, a machine-turned instrument
panel, and the option of a brutish 406cid V8. XL stood for extra lively, making
the 500 one of the first cars to kick off Fords new Total Performance sales
campaign. The 500XL Sunliner Convertible was billed as a sporty ragtop and cost
an eminently reasonable $3,350. Engines were mighty, rising from 292 through
390 to 406cid V8s, with a Borg-Warner stick-shift four-speed option. Ford learned
an important lesson from this car. Those big, in-yer-face engines clothed in large,
luxurious bodies would become seriously hip.
BELTS
Front seat belts
TRENDSETTER were an option.
The slab-sided Galaxie body was PADDED DASH
completely new for 62 and would The dashboard
set something of a styling trend for was padded and
larger cars. Lines may have been flat colormatched the exterior.
and unadorned, but buyers could
choose from 13 colors and 21
jaunty two-tones.
Ford Galaxie 500XL Sunliner 271

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Ford Galaxie 500XL Sunliner


Convertible (1962)
PRODUCTION 13,183 (1962)
BODY STYLE Two-door convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINES 292cid, 352cid, 390cid,
406cid V8s.
POWER OUTPUT 170405 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed Cruise-O-
SALES BROCHURE Matic automatic, optional four-speed
manual.
This year, more than ever before, Galaxie styling is the SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
envy of the industry. Subjective sales literature maybe, Rear: leaf springs.
but Fords restyled Galaxies were a real success, and BRAKES Front and rear drums.
the new XL series offered peak performance plus MAXIMUM SPEED 108140 mph
the top trim level of the 500. (174225 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.614.2 sec
A.F.C. 1618 mpg (5.76.4 km/l)
ROOF
Fiberglass blankets
insulated the roof. TOP UP
Unlike this example, the rarest
Sunliners had a wind-evading
Starlift hardtop, which was not
on the options list. STYLISH CHROME
The arrow-straight side flash
is a far cry from the florid
sweepspears that adorned
most Fifties models.
272 Ford Galaxie 500XL Sunliner

INTERIOR
The interior was plush and palatial, with
Mylar-trimmed, deep-pleated buckets flanking
the center console. Seats could be adjusted BRAKES
four ways manually and six ways electronically. In 62 all Fords had
self-adjusting brakes,
6,000-mile (9,660-km)
lube intervals, and life-of-
LIGHTS the-car transmission fluid.
Large, round, rear-light cluster
copied the T-Bird and appeared
on the Falcon as well as the
Fairlane, also debuting in 1962.

REAR ASPECT
The fuel filler-cap lurks behind
the central hinged section
of the anodized beauty
panel. The panel itself
highlights the cars width.
The hardtop version of
the 500XL Sunliner
wasthe Club Victoria,
$250 cheaper than the
convertible and twice as
popular, with 28,000
manufactured in 62.
Ford Galaxie 500XL Sunliner 273

MIRRORLIGHT
The spotlight mirror was a
factory option; on a clear night,
the light could emit a beam
mile (800 meters) ahead.

BODY INSULATION
The Galaxie had an especially quiet ride because it was
soundproofed at various points. Sound-absorbent mastic
was applied to the inside surfaces of the doors, hood,
trunk lid, fenders, and quarter panels.

GALAXIE PERFORMANCE
The Galaxies of 62 marked Ford boss Lee
Iacoccas first sortie into the performance-
obsessed youth market, which two years later
would blossom into the legendary Mustang (see
pages 27885). It was an inspired marketing
gamble that took Ford products through the
Sixties with huge success in both showrooms
and on the racetrack.

ENGINE
Stock Galaxies lumbered around with a
223cid six or 292cid V8. The 500XL
could choose from a range of
Thunderbird V8s that included the
390cid Special, as here, and a 405 bhp
406cid V8 with triple Holley carbs,
which could be ordered for $379.

CHASSIS
Chassis was made up of
wide-contoured frame with
double-channel side rails.
274 Ford Thunderbird (1962)

F ORD Thunderbird (1962)


IT WAS NO ACCIDENT THAT THE third-generation T-Bird looked like it was fired from a
rocket silo. Designer Bill Boyer wanted the new prodigy to havean aircraft and missile
like shape, a subtext that wasnt lost on an American public vexed by the Cuban crisis
and Khrushchevs declaration of an increase in Soviet military spending. The Sports
Roadster model was the finest incarnation of the 6163 Thunderbird. With Kelsey-
Hayes wire wheels and a two-seater fiberglass tonneau, it was one of the most
glamorous cars on the block and one of the most exclusive. Virile, vast, and expensive,
the Big Bird showed that Detroit still wasnt disposed to making smaller, cheaper cars.
GM even impudently asserted that a good used car is the only answer to Americas
need for cheap transportation. And anyway, building cars that looked and went like
missiles was far more interesting and profitable.

PRETTY CONVERTIBLE
With the hood down, the Big Bird TILT WHEEL
was one of the most attractive and T-Bird drivers werent that
stiffest convertibles Ford had ever young, and a Swing-Away
made. The heavy unitary-construction steering wheel aided access for
body allowed precious few shakes, the more corpulent driver.
rattles, and rolls. Motor Trend magazine
said: Fords plush style-setter has
plenty of faults... but its still the
classic example of the prestige car.

WHEELS
Lesser T-Birds could
opt for the Roadsters
wire wheels at $343.
Ford Thunderbird (1962) 275

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Ford Thunderbird Sports


Roadster (1962)
PRODUCTION 455 (1962)
BODY STYLE Two-door, two/four-seater
convertible.
CHASSIS CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
Construction was dual-unitized, ENGINE 390cid V8.
with separate front and rear POWER OUTPUT 330340 bhp.
sections welded together at the cowl. TRANSMISSION Three-speed
Cruise-O-Matic automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: upper and
lower A-arms and coil springs;
Rear: leaf springs with live axle.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 116125 mph
(187201 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 9.712.4 sec
ROOF FUN A.F.C. 1120 mpg (3.97.1 km/l)
With the top down, the streamlined tonneau made
the Sports Roadster sleek enough to echo the 55
two-seater Thunderbird (see pages 26265).

DECORATION BODY CREASE OVERHANG


Three sets of five cast-chrome Odd styling crease ran Rear overhang was
slash marks unmistakably from fender to door prodigious, but parking
suggest total power. and is the models could be mastered by using
least becoming feature. the rear fin as a marker.
276 Ford Thunderbird (1962)

INTERIOR
Aircraft imagery in the controls
is obvious. The interior was
designed around a prominent
center console that split the
cabin into two separate
cockpits, delineating positions
of driver and passenger.

ADDED EXTRAS
Tinted glass, power seats and
windows, and AM/FM radio
were the most popular options.
OVERHEAD VIEW
The Sports Roadster could also
bea full four seater. Trouble was,
there was no space in the trunk
for the tonneau, so it had to stay
at home. The large tonneau panel
came off easily but required
twopeople to handle it.

FRONT ASPECT
The front bears an
uncanny resemblance to
the British Ford Corsair,
which is neither surprising
nor coincidental, since
the Corsair was also
made by Uncle Henry.
This third-generation
T-Bird was warmly
received and sold well.
Ford Thunderbird (1962) 277

DIVINE DESIGN
Sales literature suggested
that the T-Bird was the result
of the combined efforts
ofFord and God.

CABIN DESIGN
Interior designer Art Querfield
spent more time on the T-
Birds cabin than on any other
car in his 40 years at Ford.

CLEANER REAR
Ford cleaned up the rear of their
prestige offering after the demise
of the 58 to 60 Squarebird.
Lights were a simple
rounded cluster and the
bumper was straight
and wide.

COLORS
18 single shades
or 24 two-tone
combinations
were offered.
278 Ford Mustang (1965)

F ORD Mustang (1965)


THIS ONE HIT THE GROUND RUNNINGgalloping in fact, for the Mustang rewrote
the sales record books soon after it burst onto the market in April, 1964. It really
broke the mold, for it was from the Mustang that the term pony car was derived
to describe a new breed of sporty compacts. The concept of an inexpensive
sports car for the masses is credited to dynamic young Ford vice president, Lee
Iacocca. In realization, the Mustang was more than classless, almost universal
in appeal. Its extensive options list meant there was a flavor to suit every taste.
There was a Mustang for moms, sons, daughters, husbands, even young-at-heart
grandparents. Celebrities who could afford a ranch full of thoroughbred
racehorses and a garage full of Italian exotics were also proud to tool
around in Mustangs. Why, this cars a democrat.

MASS APPEAL ANTENNA


The Mustang burst into the history Push-button radio and
books almost the moment it was antenna were all part
unveiled to the public in Spring of the options list.
1964. At one stroke it revived the
freedom of spirit of the early DOORS
sporting Thunderbirds and brought Long doors helped entry
sports car motoring to the masses. andexit for rear passengers.
Ford Mustang (1965) 279

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Ford Mustang (196468)


PRODUCTION 2,077,826
BODY STYLES Two-door, four-seat
hardtop, fastback, convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Unitary chassis/body.
ENGINES Six-cylinder 170cid to 428cid V8.
Featured car: 289cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 195250 bhp at
40004800 rpm or 271 bhp at 6000 rpm
(289cid).
TRANSMISSION Three- or four-speed
manual or three-speed automatic.
ENGINE SUSPENSION Independent front by
Mustangs were offered with the option of V8 (289cid coil springs and wishbones; semi-elliptic
pictured) or six-cylinder engines; eights outsold sixes two- leaf springs at rear.
to-one in 196468. Customers could thus buy the car with BRAKES Drums; discs optional at front.
100 bhp or have 400 bhp sports car performance. MAXIMUM SPEED 110127 mph
(177204 km/h) (289cid)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.1 sec (289cid)
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 19.7 sec
A.F.C. 13 mpg (4.6 km/l)

PILLARLESS COUPE
Both front and rear side windows
wound completely out of sight.

WHEEL OPTIONS
Myriad options included smaller
wheels, wider tires, wire wheel covers,
and knockoff style hub embellishers.
280 Ford Mustang (1965)

INTERIOR
The first Mustangs shared their
instrument layout with more mundane
Ford Falcons, but in a padded dash.
The plastic interior is a little tacky, but
at the price no one was going to
complain. The sports wheel was
a standard 1965 fixture.
WINDSHIELD
Banded, tinted
windshield was
another option.

PROTOTYPE ORIGINS
The Mustang I prototype
of 1962 was a V4 mid-
engined two seaterpretty,
but too exotic. The four-
seater Mustang II show car
debuted at the US Grand
Prix in 1963, and its
successpaved the way for
the production Mustang,
which to this day is still the
fastest selling Ford ever.

BRAKES
Front discs were
a new option
for 1965.
Ford Mustang (1965) 281

OVERHEAD VIEW
This birds-eye view of the Mustang
shows the sense of its proportions,
with a box for the engine, the
people, and their luggage. Interior
space was maximized by doing away
with Detroits bulging, and often
florid, outer panels. The Mustangs
almost understated styling was a
breath of fresh air.

V-SIGN
The 289 cubic inch, cast-iron V8
engine was a glamorous power unit,
seeing service in the iconic AC
Cobra, Sunbeam Tiger, and
TVR Griffiths.
ROOF
Popular vinyl-covered roof
option on the hardtop
simulates the convertible.

CONSUMER CHOICE
The Mustang could be as
cheap or expensive as you
liked. The Mustang is
designed to be designed by
you gushed an early sales
brochure. From a $2,368
entry price, you could
check the option boxes to
turn your personal car
into a hot rod costing
more than double that.

SUSPENSION
Harder suspension and
handling kits could be
ordered as an option.
282 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 (1967)

F ORD Shelby Mustang GT500 (1967)


LOOKING BACK FROM OUR ERA of environmental sensitivity, its amazing to
remember a time when you could buy this sort of stomach-churning horsepower
straight from the showroom floor. Whats more, if you couldnt afford to buy it,
you could borrow it for the weekend from your local Hertz rent-a-car. The fact is
that the American public loved the grunt, the image, and the Carroll Shelby Cobra
connection. Fords advertising slogan went straight to the pointShelby Mustangs
were The Road Cars. With 289 and 428cid V8s, they were blisteringly quick and
kings of both street and strip. By 67 they were civilized too, with options like
factory air and power steering, as well as lots of gauges, a wood-rim Shelby
wheel, and that all-important 225 km/h (140 mph) speedo. The little Pony
Mustang had grown into a thundering stallion.
STEERING WHEEL
The wood-rim steering
THE SHELBY IN 67 wheel came with the
67 Shelbys had a larger hood scoop than Shelby package.
previous models, plus a custom-built 500 NAME
fiberglass front to complement the stock GT500 name was
Mustangs new longer hood. Shelbys were arbitrary and did
a big hit in 67, with 1,175 350s and 2,048 not refer to power.
500s sold. Prices were also about 15
percent cheaper than in 66.

LOCK PINS
Racing-style lock
pins were standard
on the hood.
Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 (1967) 283

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Ford Shelby Cobra Mustang


GT500 (1967)
PRODUCTION 2,048 (1967)
BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel unitary body.
ENGINE 428cid V8.
SHELBY PLATE POWER OUTPUT 360 bhp.
Shelby gave the early Mustangs his special treatment in a factory TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual,
three-speed automatic.
in Los Angeles. Later cars were built in Michigan. Shelby
SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
delivered the first batch to Hertz the day before a huge ice storm. Rear: leaf springs.
The brakes proved too sharp and 20 cars were written off. BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 132 mph
HERTZ FUN (212 km/h)
There are tales of rented COBRA REBIRTH 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.8 sec
Shelbys being returned with At the end of 67, cars were A.F.C. 13 mpg (4.6 km/l)
bald tires and evidence of renamed Shelby Cobras,
racingnumbers on the doors. but Ford still handled all
promotion and advertising.
SIDE SCOOPS
Scoops acted as REAR DECK
interior air extractors Rear deck was
for the Shelby. made of fiberglass
to save weight.

WHEEL OPTION
Wheels are optional
Kelsey-Hayes Magstars.
284 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 (1967)

PRACTICAL SEATING
All GT350s and 500s boasted the
standard and very practical Mustang
fold-down rear seat along with Shelbys
own padded roll bar. Shelbys
came in fastback only; there
were no hatchbacks,
and convertibles were
only available from 68.

SUSPENSION
Shelbys springing
was similar to the
Mustang with front
sway bar, stiff springs,
and Gabriel shocks.

FUEL CONSUMPTION COBRA ORIGINS


Thirsty 428cid V8 meant 428cid V8 started
that only 13 mpg life in the original
(4.6 km/l) was possible. AC Cobra.

THE 500S BLOCK


The GT500 came with the
428 Police Interceptor unit
with two Holley four-barrel
carbs. Oval, finned
aluminum open-element
air cleaner and cast-
aluminum valve covers
were unique to the
big-block Shelby.

CENTER LIGHTS
The standard center-grille
high-beam headlights
were forced to the sides in
some states because of
federal legislation.
Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 (1967) 285

TACHOMETER
The standard
tachometer red-lined
at 8000 rpm.

INTERIOR
Stewart-Warner oil and amp gauges and a
tachometer were standard fittings. Two interior
colors were available parchment and black.
Interior decor was brushed aluminum with
molded door panels and courtesy lights.

BRAKES
The rear drum
brakes were assisted
at the front by more
efficient discs.

POWER REFINEMENTS
The introduction of power-
assisted steering and brakes
on the 67 model meant
that the once rough-
riding Shelby had
transformed into a
luxury slingshot
that would soon
become an icon.

LIGHTS
For the Shelby, the
Mustangs rear lights
were replaced with
the 65 T-Birds
sequential lights.
286 Gordon Keeble GT

G ORDON K EEBLE GT
IN 1960, THIS WAS THE MOST ELECTRIFYING CAR the British magazine Autocar & Motor
had ever tested. Designed by Giugiaro in Italy and built in an aircraft hanger in
Southampton, England, it boasted good looks, a fiberglass body, and a 5.4-liter, 300
bhp V8 Chevrolet Corvette engine. But, despite plenty of publicity, good looks, epic
performance, and a glamorous clientele, the Gordon Keeble was a commercial disaster,
with only 104 built. The car built to aircraft standards, read the advertising copy. And
time has proved the Keebles integrity; a space-frame chassis, rustproof body, and that
unburstable V8 has meant that over 90 Gordons have survived, with 60 still regularly
used today. Born in an era where beauty mattered more than balance sheets,
the Gordon Keeble failed for two reasons. First, the workers could not
make enough of them, and second, the management forgot to put a
profit margin in the price. How the auto industry has changed...
STYLE
For a 60s design, the
Gordon Keeble is
crisp,clean, and timeless.

SPACE FRAME BARGAIN CLASSIC


The prototype space-frame Like most classic cars,
chassis was a skeleton of the Gordon Keeble has
square tubes. It was flown to fallen in price since the
France, then overland to Turin, late-80s. Good examples
where Giugiaro supplied the can be bought for $15,000,
glass-reinforced plastic body. or half their 1988 value.
Gordon Keeble GT 287
BUMPERS WINDOWS
The Keebles delicate three-piece Electric windows used the
chrome bumpers were same motors as the Rolls-
specially handmade. Royce Silver Shadow.

YOUNG DESIGNER
ENGINE Only 21 when he designed the car,
The small block Giugiaro gave the hood a dummy intake
Sting Ray engine scoop and fashionably raked twin
delivered a massive headlights. The roof was lengthened and
300 bhp of high- the slant of the C-pillar decreased to give
compression power. wider glass areas and maximum visibility.

HIGH-QUALITY BODY
In its day the Keebles hand-
finished, glass-reinforced plastic
body was among the best.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Gordon Keeble GT (196467)


PRODUCTION 104
BODY STYLE Four-seater fiberglass GT.
CONSTRUCTION Multitubular chassis
frame, grp body.
ENGINE 5.4-liter V8.
POWER OUTPUT 300 bhp at 5000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed all-synchro.
SUSPENSION Independent front,
De Dion rear end.
BRAKES Four-wheel disc.
MAXIMUM SPEED 141 mph (227 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.5 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 13.3 sec
A.F.C. 14 mpg (5 km/l)
288 Holden FX

H OLDEN FX
AT THE END OF WORLD WAR II, Australia had a probleman acute shortage of cars
and a newly civilianized army with money to burn. Loaded with government handouts,
General Motors-Holden came up with a four-door, six-cylinder, six-seater that would
become an Australian legend on wheels. Launched in 1948, the 48-215, more generally
known as the FX, was Australias Morris Minor (see pages 37881). Tubby, conventional,
and as big as a Buick, it had a sweet, torquey engine, steel monocoque body, hydraulic
brakes, and a three-speed column shift. Light and functional, the FX so impressed Lord
Nuffield (of Morris fame) with its uncomplicated efficiency that he had one shipped to
England for his engineers to pull apart. The
Australians did not care about the FXs
humble underpinnings and bought
120,000 with grateful enthusiasm.

CLEARANCE
High ground clearance
was especially designed
for bad roads.
Holden FX 289

US INFLUENCE DASHBOARD
The Humpy Holden was a The dash echoes the
warmed-over prewar design Australian culture for
for a small Chevrolet sedan utilitarianism, with
that General Motors US had center speedo, two
created in 1938. A Detroit- occasional gauges,
Adelaide collaboration, the three-speed column
FX eventually emerged as a change, and only five
plain shape that would not ancillary switches. The
date. Australians still speak of SPEEDO umbrella handbrake and
the FX in hallowed tones, Speedo calibrated chrome horn ring were
remembering it as one of the to 100 mph hangovers from Detroit
decades most reliable cars. (161 km/h) was design influences.
a tad optimistic.

BODY FLEX BODY SHELL ECONOMY


Taxi drivers complained of Body was dustproof, Postwar fuel
body flexing doors could which helped in the hot shortages meant
spring open on corners. Australian climate. that the Holden
was parsimonious.
290 Holden FX
LIGHTS
Simple and unadorned,
the FX had no indicators
or sidelights, just a six-
volt electrical system with
a single taillight.

REAR FENDER STYLING


The Holdens rear fender line was cut
into the rear doors but was much milder
than Detroits styling men would have
liked. Rear fender spats were attached to
make the car look lower and sleeker.
Endlessly practical, the FX had a
cavernous luggage compartment.

ENGINE
Power came from a sturdy 2170cc
cast-iron straight-six, with an integral
block and crankcase, push-rod
overhead valves, and a single-barrel
downdraught Stromberg carburetor.
Holden FX 291

FRONT ASPECT
Recumbent lion hood SPECIFICATIONS
mascot lent the FX an
illusion of pedigree. In MODEL Holden 48-215 FX (194853)
reality, Holden had no PRODUCTION 120,402
bloodline at all, but that BODY STYLE Six-seater, four-door
family sedan.
didnt matter since it went CONSTRUCTION All-steel Aerobilt
on to become the standard monocoque body.
transportation of the ENGINE Six-cylinder cast-iron 2170cc.
Australian middle classes. POWER OUTPUT 60 bhp at 4500 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Front: coil and wishbone;
Rear: leaf spring live axle.
OUTPUT BRAKES Four-wheel hydraulic drums.
The engine MAXIMUM SPEED 73 mph (117 km/h)
developed a 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 27.7 sec
modest 60 bhp. A.F.C. 30 mpg (11 km/l)

SUSPENSION
The Holden was too powerful
for its suspension and many
ended up on their roofs.

BROCHURES
General Motors-Holden started
life as a saddlery and leather goods
manufacturer, later diversifying
into car body builders.
292 Hudson Super Six

H UDSON Super Six


IN 1948, HUDSONS FUTURE could not have looked brighter. The feisty independent was
one of the first with an all-new postwar design. Under the guidance of Frank Spring, the
new Hudson Super Six not only looked stunning, it bristled with innovation. The key was
its revolutionary step-down design, based on a unitary construction, with the floor
pan suspended from the bottom of the chassis frame. The Hudson was lower than its
rivals, handled with ground-hugging confidence, and with its gutsy six-cylinder engine,
outpaced virtually all competitors. In 1951, it evolved into the Hudson Hornet,
dominating American stock car racing from 1951 to 1954. But the complex design
could not adapt to the rampant demand for yearly revision; the 1953 car looked much
like the 1948, and in 1954 Hudson merged with Nash, disappearing for good in 1957.

AERODYNAMIC PROFILE HEIGHT


It is the smooth beauty of the Only 60.4 in (1.53 m)
profile that really distinguishes the high, the Super Six was lower
Hudson. The design team was led than its contemporaries.
by Frank Spring, a longtime
Hudson fixture, whose unusual
blend of talents combined styling
and engineering. His experience in
airplane design is evident in the
Hudsons aerodynamics.

LOW RIDER
Chassis frame ran outside
the rear wheels, serving as
invisible side bumpers.
Hudson Super Six 293

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Hudson Super Six (194851)


PRODUCTION 180,499
BODY STYLES Four-door sedan, Brougham
two-door sedan, Club coupe, hardtop coupe,
two-door Brougham convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Unitary chassis/body.
ENGINE 262cid L-head straight six.
POWER OUTPUT 121 bhp at 4000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional overdrive; semiautomatic.
SUSPENSION Front: independent,
wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shocks,
antiroll bar; Rear: live-axle, semi-elliptic leaf
UNDER THE HOOD springs, telescopic shocks, antiroll bar.
The gutsy new 262cid six arrived in BRAKES Hydraulic drums all round.
1948 and made the Hudson one of the MAXIMUM SPEED 90 mph (145 km/h)
swiftest cars on Americas roads. 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 1418 sec
(depending on transmission)
A.F.C. 1218 mpg (4.26.4 km/l)
SPLIT SCREEN
Each segment of the split
screen was well curved for
semiwraparound effect and POSTWAR PIONEER
good visibility. Along with Studebaker, the 1948
Hudson was one of the very first
all-new postwar designs.

SUSPENSION
Front suspension was by
wishbones, coil springs,
and telescopic shocks.
294 Hudson Hornet

H UDSON Hornet
HUDSON DID ITS BEST IN 54 to clean up the aged 1948 body. Smoother flanks
and a lower, wider frontal aspect helped, along with a new dash and brighter fabrics
and vinyls. And at long last the windshield was one piece. Mechanically it wasnt
bad either. In fact, some say the last Step-Down was the best ever. With the straight
six came a Twin-H power option, a hot camshaft, and an alloy head that could crank
out 170 bhp; it was promptly dubbed The Fabulous Hornet. The problem was
that everybody had V8s, and by mid-54 Hudson had hemorrhaged over $6 million.
In April of that year, Hudson, which had been around since 1909, was swallowed up
by the Nash-Kelvinator Corporation. Yet the Hornet has been rightly recognized
as a milestone car and one of the quickest sixes of the era. If Hudson is to be
remembered for anything, it should be for its innovative engineers, who could
wring the best from ancient designs and tiny budgets.
POWERFUL STEP-DOWNS
These Hudsons were known as ENGINE
Step-Downs because you literally Amazingly, Hudson
stepped down into the car. never offered V8
Among the fastest cars of the power, which was to
Fifties, they boasted above- hasten its downfall.
average power and crisp handling.

SUSPENSION
Coil springs provided an
adequate ride up front.
Hudson Hornet 295

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Hudson Hornet 7D (1954)


PRODUCTION 24,833 (1954 Hornets)
BODY STYLES Two-door coupe or
convertible, four-door sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINE 308cid straight six.
POWER OUTPUT 160170 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional Hydra-Matic automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
Rear: leaf springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
RACING HORNETS MAXIMUM SPEED 110 mph (177 km/h)
NASCAR devotees watched many a Hudson trounce 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 12 sec
the competition, winning 22 out of 37 major races in A.F.C. 17 mpg (6 km/l)
53 alone. Advertising copy made much of Hudsons
racing success, and the Hornet was powered to
outperform them all!

FUEL CONSUMPTION
Despite their aerodynamic
styling , Hornets drank a
thirsty 17 mpg (6 km/l).

FENDERS
Full-depth fender skirts
accentuated the low look.
296 Jaguar XK120

J AGUAR XK120
A CAR-STARVED BRITAIN, still trundling around in perpendicular, prewar hangover
cars, glimpsed the future in October of 1948 at the Earls Court Motor Show
in London. The star of the show was the Jaguar Super Sports. It was sensational
to look at from any angle, with a purity of line that did not need chrome
embellishment. It was also sensationally fast; in production as the Jaguar XK120
it would soon be proven that 120 really did stand for 120 mph (193 km/h),
making it the fastest standard production car in the world. The only trouble was
that you could not actually buy one. The XK120 was originally planned as a short
production run, prestige showstopper, but overwhelming interest at the 1948 show
changed all that. Hand-built alloy-bodied cars dribbled out of the Jaguar factory in
1949, and you needed a name like Clark Gable to get your hands on one. Tooling
was ready in 1950, and production really took off. Today
the XK120 is a platinum-plated investment.
FIXED-HEAD HEAVEN
Many rate the fixed-head coupe COCKPIT
as the most gorgeous of all The cockpit was a
XK120s, with a roof line and little cosyif not
teardrop window reminiscent of downright cramped.
the beautiful Bugatti Type 57SC
Atlantic. The fixed-head model
did not appear until March
1951 and is much rarer
than the roadster.

TIRES
Skinny cross-ply tires
gave more thrills than
needed on hard cornering.
Jaguar XK120 297

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Jaguar XK120 (194954)


PRODUCTION 12,055
BODY STYLES Two-seater roadster, fixed-
head coupe, and drophead coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Separate chassis,
aluminum/steel bodywork.
ENGINE 3442cc twin overhead cam six-
cylinder, twin SU carburetors.
POWER OUTPUT 160 bhp at 5100 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual,
Moss gearbox with syncromesh on
upper three ratios.
SUSPENSION Front: independent,
wishbones and torsion bars;
Rear: live rear axle, semi-elliptic.
EXPORT WINNER BRAKES Hydraulically operated
The XK120 was a great success 12-in (30-cm) drums.
as an export earner, with over 85 MAXIMUM SPEED 126 mph (203 km/h)
percent of all XK120s going 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 10 sec
to foreign climes. WHEELS 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 35.3 sec
Standard wheels were A.F.C. 1722 mpg (6.17.8 km/l)
the same steel discs as
on the Jaguar sedans.
298 Jaguar XK120

ROADSTER REVIVAL
Even though numbers of roadsters
were trimmed further in the late
Eighties scrabble to restore them, their
flowing curves and perfect proportions
are now more widely appreciated.

LIMITED VISION
Fixed-head coupes had
limited rear vision, but
at least you stayed dry
in a British summer.

MIDAS TOUCH
With the XK120, once again
Jaguar Boss William Lyons had
pulled off his favorite trick:
offering sensational value for
money compared with anything
else in its class. In fact, this time
there was nothing else in its class.

INTERIOR
Surrounded by leather and thick-pile
carpet, you feel good just sitting in an
XK120a lush interior, purposeful
instruments, and the bark of the exhaust.
Jaguar XK120 299

SELLING THE DREAM OUTPUT


Beautiful enough as it was, the The six-cylinder
original sales brochure for the XK120 block pumped
used airbrushed photographs out 160 bhp.
of the very first car built
the 1948 Motor Show car.

ENGINE
The famed XK six-cylinder
engine was designed by Bill
Heynes and Wally Hassan, and
went on to power the E-Type (see
pages 30609) and other Jaguars up
until 1986. Even this was styled; TWIN CARBS
William Lyons insisted that it have The XK120
twin camshafts to make it resemble breathed through twin
GP cars of the Thirties. SU carburetors.
300 Jaguar C-Type

J AGUAR C-Type
THE C-TYPE IS THE CAR that launched the Jaguar racing legend and began a Le Mans
love affair for the men from Coventry. In the 1950s, Jaguar boss Bill Lyons was intent
on winning Le Mans laurels for Britain, just as Bentley had done a quarter of a
century before. After testing mildly modified XK120s in 1950, Jaguar came up with a
competition version, the XK120C (C-Type) for 1951. A C-Type won that year, failed
in 1952, then won again in 1953. By then the C-Types place in history was assured,
for it had laid the cornerstone of the Jaguar sporting legend that blossomed through
its successor, the D-Type, which bagged three Le Mans 24-hour wins in four years.
C-Types were sold to private customers, most of whom used them for racing rather
than road use. They were tractable road cars though, often driven to and from
meetings; after their days as competitive racers were over, many were used as
high-performance highway tourers.

PRODUCTION-CAR LINK FAST FUELING


Jaguars Bill Lyons dictated that the Quick-release gas cap was ACCESSIBILITY
C-Type racer should bear a strong another racing feature and could It was easier to step
family resemblance to production save valuable seconds in a race. over the door than
Jaguars, and the Malcolm Sayer open it; the passenger
body, fitted to a special frame, did not even get one.
achieved that aim.

LUGGAGE SPACE
A car built for racing does
not need to carry baggage; rear
deck covers the massive fuel tank.
Jaguar C-Type 301

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Jaguar C-Type (195153)


PRODUCTION 53
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater
sports racer.
CONSTRUCTION Tubular chassis,
aluminum body.
ENGINE Jaguar XK120 3442cc, six-cylinder,
double overhead camshaft with twin
SU carburetors.
POWER OUTPUT 200210 bhp at
5800 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed XK gearbox
with close-ratio gears.
SUSPENSION Torsion-bars all around;
NICE AMALGAM wishbones at front, rigid axle at rear.
The clever blend of beauty and function BRAKES Lockheed hydraulic drums; later
retained the pouncing-cat Jaguar look, while cars used Dunlop discs all around.
creating an aerodynamically efficient tool for MAXIMUM SPEED 144 mph (232 km/h)
the high-speed Le Mans circuit. 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.1 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 20.1 sec
BRAKES A.F.C. 16 mpg (5.7 km/l)
The C-Type introduced disc brakes
to road racing in 1952, though
most examples used drums.
SUSPENSION
Telescopic shocks
smoothed the ride.
302 Jaguar C-Type

RACE MODELS
HOOD The C-Type was always most at
Hood hinged home on the track, though more
forward to ease at Le Manswhere it won the
midrace 24-hour classic in two out of
adjustments. three attemptsthan on shorter
circuits such as Silverstone.

ENGINE
The engine was taken from
the XK120 and placed into BLOCK POSITION
the competition version. Engine snuggled
Horsepower of the silky six neatly into its bay,
was boosted each year until ready for action.
some 220 bhp was available.
Jaguar C-Type 303

AIRCRAFT INFLUENCE
Designer Malcolm Sayers aircraft industry
background shows through in the smooth
aerodynamic styling. Louvers on the hood help
hot air escape; the engine cover is secured by
quick-release handles and leather safety straps.

INTERIOR
The cockpit was designed for business, not
comfort, but was roomy enough for two adults;
passengers were provided with a grab handle in
case the driver thought he was at Le Mans. In
racing trim, cars ran with a single airshield; this
car has an additional full-width windshield.
304 Jaguar XK150

J AGUAR XK150
THE XK150 APPEARED IN the Spring of 1957 and was the most refined of the
XK trio. One of the last Jaguars to have a separate chassis, the 150 marked the
beginning of the civilization of the Jaguar sports car. With its wider girth and
creature comforts, it was to hold the markets interest until the then-secret E-Type
project (see pages 30609) was ready for unveiling in 1961. In the late 1950s, the
XK150 was a seriously glamorous machine, almost as sleek as an Aston Martin,
but cheaper. March 1958 saw more power with the S performance
package, which brought the 3.4 up to 250 bhp; and in 1959 the 3.8s
output soared to 265 bhp. Available as a roadster, drophead, or
fixed-headcoupe, the 150 sold a creditable 9,400 examples in
its four-year run. Despite being eclipsed by the E-Type, the
150 was charismatic enough to be the personal transport for
racing ace Mike Hawthorn and startlet Anita Ekberg.

SEDAN REAR
From the rear, the fixed-head has
definite sedan lines, with its curved rear
window, big wraparound bumper, wide
track, and cavernous trunk.

REDUCED PRICE
XK150s have fallen in price and can now be
bought for the same price as an Austin Healey
3000 (see pages 5255), a Daimler Dart (see pages
19093), or a Sunbeam Tiger (see pages 43839).
Jaguar XK150 305

RARE COUPE PURE CAT PROFILE


The rarest model is the The gorgeous curved body sits on a
XK150S drophead coupe, conventional chassis. Joints and curves
with a mere 193 cars built. were smoothed off at the factory
usinglead. The 1950s auto industry
CLASSIC STRAIGHT-SIX paid little thought to rustproofing,
The classic, twin overhead-cam so all Jaguars of the period are
design first saw the light of shameful rust-raisers.
dayin 1949, and was phased
out as recently as 1986.
SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Jaguar XK150 FHC (195761)


PRODUCTION 9,400
BODY STYLES Two-seater roadster,
drophead, or fixed-head coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Separate pressed-steel
chassis frame with box section
side members.
ENGINES Straight-six, twin overhead-cam
3442cc or 3781cc.
POWER OUTPUT 190 bhp at 5500 rpm
(3.4); 210 bhp at 5500 rpm (3.8);
265 bhp at 5500 rpm (3.8S).
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual, with
optional overdrive, or three-speed Borg
Warner Model 8 automatic.
SUSPENSION Independent front, rear leaf
springs with live rear axle.
BRAKES Dunlop front and rear discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 135 mph (217 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.6 sec (3.8S)
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 18 sec
A.F.C. 18 mpg (6.4 km/l)
306 Jaguar E-Type

J AGUAR E-Type
WHEN JAGUAR BOSS WILLIAM LYONS, by now Sir William, unveiled the E-Type
Jaguar at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1961, its ecstatic reception rekindled
memories of the 1948 British launch of the XK120 (see pages 29699). The E-Type,
or XKE as it is known in America, created a sensation. British car magazines had
produced road tests of pre-production models to coincide with the launchand
yes, the fixed-head coupe really could do 150.4 mph (242 km/h). OK, so the road-
test cars were perhaps fine-tuned a little, and early owners found 145 mph (233
km/h) a more realistic maximum, but the legend was born. It was not just a
stunning, svelte sports car though; it was a trademark Jaguar sporting package,
once again marrying sensational performance with superb value for money.
Astons and Ferraris, for example, were more than double the price.

BEST-OF-BREED
The impact the shape made at its launch on March HANDLING
15, 1961 at the Geneva Motor Show, is now the Jaguar designed an all-new
stuff of Jaguar lore. Those first E-Type roadsters independent setup at the rear.
and fixed-head coupes, produced until June 1962, Handling in the wet and at top speed
are now referred to as flat-floor models, and is often criticized, but for its day the
they are the most prized of all. In fact, their flat E-Type was immensely capable.
floor was something of a flaw, and recessed foot
wells were later incorporated to increase
comfort for taller drivers.

WHEELS
Wire wheels were standard
road wear for six-cylinder
E-Types; steel discs were
attached to V12s.
Jaguar E-Type 307

SEATS SIMPLICITY OF LINE VENTS


Thin-backed bucket seats Designer Malcolm Sayer insisted he Louvers are not for looks;
of the 3.8s were criticized. was an aerodynamicist and hated to E-Types, particularly
In the 4.2, as here, they be called a stylist. He claimed the early ones, tended to
were greatly improved. E-Type was the first production car overheat in hot climates.
to be mathematically designed.

LENS COVERS
The stylish but
inefficient lens covers
were removed in 1967.

BRAKES
All-around disc brakes as
standard were part of the
spec from first E-Types.
308 Jaguar E-Type

TOP
Top was neatly tucked
away beneath a fitted
tonneau cover.

BUMPERS
Chromed slimline
bumpers were
beautiful but offered
no protection.

SPECIFICATIONS
TELL TAIL
MODEL E-Type Jaguar (196174)
The thin bumpers with lights above are
PRODUCTION 72,520 an easy giveaway for E-Type spotters.
BODY STYLES Two-seater roadster and From 1968, with the introduction of the
fixed coupe, 2+2 fixed-head coupe. Series 2, bulkier lamp clusters appeared
CONSTRUCTION Steel monocoque. below the bumpers. A detachable
ENGINES 3781cc straight-six; 4235cc hardtop was available as an option.
straight-six; 5343cc V12.
POWER OUTPUT 265 to 272 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual,
optional automatic from 1966.
SUSPENSION Front: independent,
wishbones and torsion bar;
US MARKET
Rear: independent, coil and radius arm. The E-Types amazing export success is
BRAKES Discs all around. summed up by the fact that of every three
MAXIMUM SPEED 150 mph (241 km/h) built, two were exported. Fixed-head coupes
(3.8 & 4.2); 143 mph (230 km/h) (5.3) actually accounted for a little over half of all
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 77.2 sec E-Type production, yet the roadster was the
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 16.2 sec (3.8) major export winner, with most going to
A.F.C. 1620 mpg (5.77 km/l) the US. Ironically, though, it was American
emission regulations that were increasingly
strangling the Cats performance.
Jaguar E-Type 309

INTERIOR
The interior of this Series 1 4.2 is the
WIPERS epitome of sporting luxury, with leather
Unusual and sporty- seats, wood-rim wheel, and an array of
looking triple wipers gave instruments and toggle switcheslater
way to a two-blade system replaced by less sporting rocker and less
with the 1971 V12. injurious rocker switches. The 3.8s had
an aluminum-finished center console
panel and transmission tunnel.

CLASSY HOOD
This view of the
E-Types bulging,
sculptured hood is still
the best of any car.
310 Jensen Interceptor

J ENSEN Interceptor
THE JENSEN INTERCEPTOR WAS one of those great cars that comes along every
decade or so. Built in a small Birmingham, England, factory, a triumph of tenacity
over resources, the Interceptors lantern-jawed looks and tire-smoking power made
the tiny Jensen company a household name. A glamorous cocktail of an Italian-
styled body, American V8 engine, and genteel British craftsmanship, it became
the car for successful Britons of the late 1960s and 1970s. The Interceptor was
handsome, fashionable, and formidably fast, but its tragic flaw was a big appetite
for fuel10 mpg (3.5 km/l) if you enjoyed yourself. After driving straight into
twooil crises and a worldwide recession, as well as suffering serious losses
from theill-fated Jensen-Healey project, Jensen filed for bankruptcy in 1975
and finally closed its doors in May 1976.
TIMELESS STYLING WINDOW
The Interceptors futuristic shape hardly Rear window lifted up to reveal
changed over its 10-year life span and was a large lug gage compartment.
widely acknowledged to be one of the most
innovative designs of its decade. The classic
shape was crafted by Italian styling house
Vignale. From bare designs to
running prototype took
just three months.

BODYWORK
Bodies were all-steel, with little
attention paid to corrosion proofing.
Early cars were tragic rust-raisers.
Jensen Interceptor 311

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Jensen Interceptor (196676)


PRODUCTION 1,500
BODY STYLE All-steel occasional four-
seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Separate tubular and
platform type pressed steel frame.
ENGINE 6276cc V8.
POWER OUTPUT 325 bhp at 4600 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed Chrysler
TorqueFlite automatic.
SUSPENSION Independent front with
live rear axle.
BRAKES Four-wheel Girling discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 135 mph (217 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.3 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 19 sec
BEAUTIFUL INTERIOR
A.F.C. 13.6 mpg (4.9 km/l)
Road testers complained that the Interceptors
dash was like the flight deck of a small aircraft,
but the interior was beautifully handmade with
the finest hides and plush Wilton carpets.

SIMPLE MECHANICS ENGINE


With one huge carburetor and The lazy Chrysler V8 of
only a single camshaft, the 6.2 liters gave drag-strip
Interceptor had a simple soul. acceleration and endless reliability.

TIRES
Dunlop SPs
replaced skinny
pre-68 RS5s.
312 Kaiser Darrin

K AISER Darrin
THE SPORTS CAR THE WORLD has been awaiting was a monster flop. Designed by
Howard Dutch Darrin, Kaisers odd hybrid came about in 1953 as an accident.
Henry J. Kaiser, the ill-mannered chairman of the Kaiser Corporation, had so riled
Darrin that he disappeared into his California studio, spent his own money, and
created a purse-lipped two-seater that looked like it wanted to give you a kiss. Its
futuristic fiberglass body rode on a Henry J. chassis and was powered by a Willys six-
pot mill. Alas, the body rippled and cracked, the sliding doors wouldnt slide, and the
weedy 90 bhp flathead was no match for Chevys Corvette. At a costly $3,668, the
Darrin was in Cadillac territory, and only 435 found buyers. Late in 54, Kaiser-
Willys went under, taking the Darrin with them. Few mourned eithers demise.

A TRUE CLASSIC BODY SHELL


The Darrin was beautifully Darrin bodies were made by
styled and, unlike most visions boat-builders Glasspar.
of the future, has hardly dated
at all. The Landau top could FENDER SHAPE
be removed and a hardtop Rear fender tapers upward
attached, and, with its three- to create a fine torpedo-
speed floor shift and likeshape.
overdrive, it could return
up to 27 mpg (9.6 km/l).

REAR FENDER
Rear fender and taillight treatment
is restrained for the year and
redolent of an XK Jaguar.
Kaiser Darrin 313

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Kaiser Darrin 161 (1954)


PRODUCTION 435 (total)
BODY STYLE Two-seater sports.
CONSTRUCTION Fiberglass body,
steel frame.
ENGINE 161cid six.
POWER OUTPUT 90 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed
manual with optional overdrive.
SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
Rear: leaf springs.
INTERIOR BRAKES Front and rear drums.
Standard equipment included electric wipers, tachometer, MAXIMUM SPEED 100 mph
and a European-style dashboard, with leather trim (161 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 15.1 sec
an optional extra. Whitewall tires and a one-piece
A.F.C. 27 mpg (9.6 km/l)
windshield were also standard.

SLIDING DOORS
Howard Darrin first conceived his
contentious sliding doors back in 1922. LIMITED SIX
The trouble was that they rattled, The six-cylinder unit
jammed, and didnt open all the way. produced a top speed of only
100 mph (161 km/h).

SLEEK SELL
Ads called it the
outstanding pleasure
car of our day.
314 Kaiser Darrin

LATE DELIVERIES
The Darrin took its time coming. It
was first announced on September 26,
1952, with 60 initial prototypes
eventually displayed to the
public on February 11, 1953.
Final production cars
reached owners as late
as January 6, 1954.

RISING ARCH
Undeniably pretty, the fender
line slopes down through the door
and meets a dramatic kick-up
over the rear wheel arch.

SIDE WINDOWS
CABIN SPACE Swiveling Plexiglas side
Hardtop made the cabin windows reduced
much less claustrophobic cockpit buffeting.
and cramped than that of
the soft-top model.

BELT UP
The Darrin was remarkable
for being only the third
US production car to
feature seat belts
as standard. The
other two cars
were a Muntz
and a Nash.

HEADLIGHTS
The prototype headlight
height was too low for
state lighting laws, so
Kaiser stylists hiked
up the front fender line
for the real thing.
Kaiser Darrin 315
CHASSIS
Stock Henry J. chassis
and engine didnt do much
for the Darrins bloodline.

ENGINE
Kaiser opted for an F-head Willys version of the
Henry J. six-pot motor; but with just one carb,
it boasted only 10 more horses than standard.
After the company folded, Darrin dropped
300 bhp supercharged Caddy V8s into the
remaining cars, which went like the wind.

VW-STYLE PRICING
Front aspect looks very The 90 bhp Darrin
much like an early cost $145 more than the
VW Karmann Ghia. 150 bhp Chevy Corvette.

AN UNHAPPY ALLIANCE
Henry J. Kaiser was livid that
Howard Darrin had worked on the
car without his permission. In the
end, the Darrin was actually
saved by Henry J.s wife,
who reckoned it was
the most beautiful
thing shed ever seen.

BRIT REAR
Rear aspect is
surprisingly British-
looking for a
California design.
316 Kaiser Henry J. Corsair

K AISER Henry J. Corsair


IN THE EARLY 1950S, the major car manufacturers reckoned that small cars
meant small profits, so low-priced transportation was left to independent
companies like Nash, Willys, and Kaiser-Frazer. In 1951, a streamlined, Frazer-less
Kaiser launched Americas Most Important New Car, the Henry J. An 80 bhp
six-cylinder Supersonic engine gave the Corsair frugal fuel consumption, with
Kaiser claiming that every third mile in a Henry J. was free. The market, however,
was unconvinced. At $1,561, the Corsair cost more than the cheapest big Chevy,
wasnt built as well, and depreciated rapidly. No wonder then that only 107,000
were made. Had Americas first serious economy car been launched seven years
later during the 58 recession, the Henry J. may well have been a best-seller.

SMALLER MODEL
The stubborn head of Kaiser FENDERS
industries insisted that the Henry J., Bolt-on front and rear
originally designed as a full-size car fenders were part of
by designer Howard Dutch the Henry J.s money-
Darrin, be scaled down. saving philosophy.

WHEELBASE
The 100 in (2.54 m)
wheelbase was short, but
the interior space generous.
Kaiser Henry J. Corsair 317

DASH CONTROLS
The few controls SPECIFICATIONS
included starter,
ignition, light, and MODEL Kaiser Henry J. Corsair Deluxe
(1952)
choke switches.
PRODUCTION 12,900 (1952)
BODY STYLE Two-door, five-seater sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINES 134cid four, 161cid six.
POWER OUTPUT 6880 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual with
optional overdrive, optional three-speed
INSIDE THE CORSAIR Hydra-Matic automatic.
The interior was seriously austere. Apart ROOF LINE SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
Rear: leaf springs with live axle.
from overdrive and auto transmission, High roof line owed its
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
very few options were available. existence to the fact
MAXIMUM SPEED 87 mph
that Kaisers chairman (140 km/h)
always wore a hat. 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 17 sec
A.F.C. 34 mpg (12 km/l)

COLORS
Blue Satin was one of
nine colors available.

TRUNK SPACE
With the rear seat folded down,
the luggage space was among the
largest of any passenger sedan.
318 Lamborghini Miura

L AMBORGHINI Miura
THE LAUNCH OF THE LAMBORGHINI MIURA at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show was
the decades automotive sensation. Staggeringly beautiful, technically preeminent,
and unbelievably quick, it was created by a triumvirate of engineering wizards
all in their twenties. For the greater part of its production life the Miura was
reckoned to be the most desirable car money could buy, combining drop-dead
looks, awesome performance, and unerring stability, as well as an emotive top
speed of 175 mph (282 km/h). From its dramatic swooping lineseven
Lamborghini thought it was too futuristic to sellto its outrageously exotic
colors, the Miura perfectly mirrored the middle Sixties. But, as the oil crises
of the Seventies took hold, the Miura slipped into obscurity, replaced in 1973
by the not so lovely, and some say inferior, Countach (see pages 32225).
GT40 LINKS INSULATION
In looks and layout the mid-engined In an attempt to silence a violently
Lambo owes much to the Ford GT40 loud engine, Lamborghini put
(see pages 25861) but was engineered by 4 in (10 cm) of polystyrene
Gianpaolo Dallara. At the core of the insulation between engine and cabin.
Miura is a steel platform chassis frame with
outriggers front and rear to support the
major mechanicals. The end-of-the-line SV
was the most refined Miura, with more
power, a stiffer chassis, and
redesignedsuspension.

REAR FENDER
The rear fender profile
was different on the SV
than on earlier models.
Lamborghini Miura 319

LIGHTS HEIGHT
Standard Miura The Miura only came
headlights were shared up to waist height
by the Fiat 850. just 42 in (107 cm).

INTERIOR ENDURING STYLE


Standard interior Long, low, and delicate, the Miura is still
trim was unimpressive considered one of the most handsome RARE SV
oatmeal vinyl. automotive sculptures ever. The car was so Only 150 SVs were built.
low that headlights had to be pop-up to Very few had a split sump
raise them high enough for adequate vision. that had separate oil for the
engine and gearbox.

ACCELERATION
Acceleration still compares
well with modern supercars.
320 Lamborghini Miura

TAIL-END ACTION
Because the Miura sits so low, it ENGINE
displays virtually zero body roll; The V12 4-liter engine was mid-mounted
therefore there is little warning transversely to prevent the cars
before the tail slips wheelbase from being too
away, which, with long. The gearbox, final drive,
all that power, and crankcase were all cast in
is likely to one piece to save space. Beneath
happen at the pipery slumber 12 pistons,
high speeds. four chain-driven camshafts,
24 valves, and four carburettors.
Lamborghini Miura 321

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Lamborghini Miura (196672)


PRODUCTION Approx 800
BODY STYLE Two-seater roadster.
CONSTRUCTION Steel platform chassis,
light alloy and steel bodywork.
ENGINE Transverse V12 4.0 liter.
POWER OUTPUT P400, 350 bhp at 7000
rpm; P400S, 370 bhp at 7700 rpm; P400SV,
385 bhp at 7850 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed with trans axle.
SUSPENSION Independent front and rear.
BRAKES Four-wheel ventilated disc.
MAXIMUM SPEED 175 mph
(282 km/h) (P400SV)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.7 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 15.1 sec
LIGHT POWERHOUSE
FILLER CAP A.F.C. 16 mpg (5.7 km/l)
The Miura has a very
impressive power-to-weight The gas filler
ratioits able to produce hid under the
385 bhp, yet it weighs only hood slat.
2,646 lb (1,200 kg).
GEARBOX
The gearbox was a
disappointment, with a
FRONT LIFT
trucklike, sticky action that
Treacherous
did not do the Miuras
aerodynamicsmeant
gorgeous engine any justice.
thatapproaching speeds of
170 mph (274 km/h) both of
the Miuras front wheels could
actually lift off the ground.

INTERIOR
The cockpit is basic but finely detailed,
with a huge Jaeger speedo and tacho. Six
minor gauges on the left of the console
tell the mechanical story. The alloy gear-
lever gate is a handmade work of art.
322 Lamborghini Countach 5000S

L AMBORGHINI Countach 5000S


THE COUNTACH WAS FIRST UNVEILED at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show as the
Miuras replacement, engineered by Giampaolo Dallara and breathtakingly styled by
Marcello Gandini of Bertone fame. For a complicated, hand-built car, the Countach
delivered all the reliable high performance that its swooping looks promised. In
1982, a 4.75-liter 375 bhp V12 was shoe-horned in to give the upcoming Ferrari
Testarossa (see pages 24447) something to reckon with. There is no mid-engined car
like the Countach. The engine sits longitudinally in a multitubular space frame, with
fuel and water carried by twin side-mounted tanks and radiators. On the downside,
visibility is appalling, steering is heavy, gear selection recalcitrant, and the cockpit is
cramped. Yet such faults can only be considered as charming idiosyncrasies when
set against the Countachs staggering performancea howling 187 mph
(301 km/h) top speed and a 060 (96 km/h) belt of 5 seconds.
SOUND EFFECTS
BREAKING THE RULES AIR SCOOPS Inches away, all occupants
The shape is a riot of creative genius that Air scoops provided were able to hear exactly
ignores all established rules of car design. ideal hand-holds for the what this engine had to say.
Air scoops under the bodys side windows huge scissor doors.
break up the wedge-shaped line and form
a ready-made indent for a compact
door catch.

WHEELS
Steamroller-like 12J five-
porthole alloy wheels sat
on ultralow profile tires.
Lamborghini Countach 5000S 323

DOORS CLASSY CHASSIS STORAGE SPACE


Pivoting doors were works of Underneath the alloy panels nestles a Luggage space was
art that worked perfectly even birdcage space-frame chassis of great restricted to an
on the earliest prototypes. complexity. Weight distribution is close to overnight bag.
50/50, which means that the Countachs
poise at the limit is legendary.
HANDLING
The Countach went exactly
where it was pointed with
unerring precision
thanks to almost perfect
weight distribution.
324 Lamborghini Countach 5000S

INTERIOR
The cabin was crude, with
unsubtle interior architecture.
Switches and
wands were
Fiat- and Lancia-
sourced. Scant body
protection means
that most Countachs
acquire a tapestry
of scars.

SUSPENSION
Independent front
and rear suspension
had double wishbones
and coil springs.

CELEBRATIONS
The 25-year anniversary
of Lamborghini
SPECIFICATIONS production in 1985
was celebrated with
MODEL Lamborghini Countach (197390) the 5000S and the elite
PRODUCTION Approx 1,000 Quattrovalvole 5000S.
BODY STYLE Mid-engined, two-seater
sports coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Alloy body,
space-frame chassis.
ENGINE 4754cc four-cam V12.
POWER OUTPUT 375 bhp at 7000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Independent front and rear
with double wishbones and coil springs.
BRAKES Four-wheel vented discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 187 mph (301 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.1 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 13.3 sec
A.F.C. 9 mpg (3.2 km/l)
Lamborghini Countach 5000S 325

GRAND AUTO
Everything on the Countach
is built on a grand scale.
Four exhausts, four
camshafts, 12
cylinders, half a
dozen 45DCOE
Webers, and the
widest track
of anycar on
the road.

AMPLE GIRTH
MANEUVERABILITY It took an epoch to get used
Reversing the Countach is a bit like to the extra wide body.
launching the Queen Mary. The
preferred technique is to open the ECONOMY?
scissor door and sit on the sill while The 4.75-liter power unit spared no
looking over your shoulder. thought for fuel economy and drank one
gallon of fuel every 9 miles (3.2 km/l).
326 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider

L ANCIA Aurelia B24 Spider


BEAUTY IS MORE THAN JUST skin deep on this lovely little Lancia, for underneath
those lean Pininfarina loins the Aurelias innards bristle with innovative engineering.
For a start there is the compact alloy V6. Designed under Vittorio Jano, the man
responsible for the great racing Alfas of the Twenties and Thirties, this free-revving,
torquey little lump was the first mass-produced V6. The revolution was not just at the
front though, for at the back were the clutch and gearbox, housed in the transaxle to
endow the Aurelia with near-perfect weight distribution. These innovations were first
mated with the Pininfarina body in 1951, producing the Aurelia B20 GT coupe, often
credited as the first of the new breed of modern postwar GTs. And the point of it
all becomes clear when you climb behind the wheel, for although the Aurelia was
never the most accelerative machine, its handling was so impeccable that 40 years
on it still impresses with its masterly cornering poise.
FAMILY RESEMBLANCE LUGGAGE ROOM DESIGNATIONS
The Spider bears a passing family The Aurelia Spider scored The Spider and convertible were
resemblance to the Aurelia sedan, and well in luggage-carrying designated B24 Aurelias; B10,
even more so to the GT models. Neither capabilities compared with 15, 21, and 22 were four-door
of the closed versions had the wrap-around other two-seaters of the time. sedans, and B20 the GT coupe.
windshield though, or the equally distinctive
half-bumpers; the Spiders radiator
grille was a slightly different
shape, too.

TWIN PIPES
Piling on the revs, the throbbing, gruff
sound rose to a rich gurgle that is
singularly tuneful from the twin exhausts.
Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider 327

RARE SPIDERS OPEN AIR SPIDER SPOTTING


Relatively few Spiders With the B24 Spider you got all the benefits The Spiders hood-top
were built, and most of the B20 coupe and fresh air too. Today air-scoop was a unique
were exported to the this rare and charismatic roadster is the most feature among
United States. prized of this illustrious family. Aurelia models.
ENGINE
The flexible 60-degree V6 could pull
the Spider from 20 mph (32 km/h)
in top gear, yet ran to 5500 rpm.
328 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider

RIGHT-HAND DRIVE
Until the Aurelia, Lancia had
eccentrically persisted with right-hand
steering, even for the home market.
The adoption of left-hand drive
makesthis right-hander a real rarity.

INTERIOR
The panel has just three major dials and a group of
switches on a painted metal dash. It was devoid of the
walnut-leather trimmings which British carmakers of
the time considered essential for a luxury sports car.
The elegant, adjustable Nardi steering wheel was
standard equipment on the Spider.

ENGINE
Aurelias featured the worlds first BALANCE
mass-production V6, an all-alloy unit For perfect balance, the weight
which progressively grew from 1754cc of the engine was offset by
to 1991cc, to the 2451cc used locating clutch and gearbox in a
in the B24 Spider. unit with differential at the rear.
Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider 329

SWEEPING FENDERS
The curvaceous Pininfarina shape is characterized
by the sweeping front fenders and long luggage
compartment. The Spiders high-silled monocoque
construction meant that the doors were small.
Protection from the elements was fairly basic;
the B24 had a simple
hood with plastic
side windows.

FLAG BADGES
These represent the joint input of Lancia,
designers and manufacturers of the
mechanical parts, and Pininfarina, who
styled the body and built the cars.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider


(195456)
PRODUCTION 330
BODY STYLE Two-seater sports
convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Monocoque with pressed
steel and box-section chassis frame.
ENGINE Twin-overhead-valve aluminum
alloy V6, 2451cc.
POWER OUTPUT 118 bhp at 5000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Sliding pillar with beam axle
and coil springs at front, De Dion rear axle
on leaf springs.
BRAKES Hydraulic, finned alloy drums,
inboard at rear.
RACE PEDIGREE MAXIMUM SPEED 112 mph (180 km/h)
The B20 GT coupes, from which 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 14.3 sec
the B24 Spider was derived, achieved A.F.C. 22 mpg (7.8 km/l)
a second overall on the Mille Miglia
and a Le Mans class win.
330 Lancia Stratos

L ANCIA Stratos
THE LANCIA STRATOS WAS BUILT as a rally winner first and a road car second.
Fiat-owned Lancia took the bold step of designing an all-new car solely to win
the World Rally Championship, and with a V6 Ferrari Dino engine (see pages
23437) on board, the Stratos had success in 1974, 75, and 76. Rallying rules
demanded that at least 500 cars be built, but Lancia needed only 40 for its rally
program; the rest lay unsold in showrooms across Europe for years and were
even given away as prizes to high-selling Lancia dealers. Never a commercial
proposition, the Stratos was an amazing mix of elegance, hard-charging
performance, and thrill-a-minute handling.
ASSEMBLY
STUBBY STYLE Bertone built the bodies, while
Shorter than a Mk II Escort, and Lancia added their sometimes-
with the wheelbase of a Fiat 850, the clumsy finishing touches at the
stubby Stratos wedge looks almost as WHEELS Chivasso factory in Turin.
wide as it is long. The front and back Campagnallo alloys sat
of the car are fiberglass with a steel onPirelli P7F rubber
center-section. The constant radius F stands for a soft
windshield is cut from a cylindrical compound to give a gentler
section of thin glass to avoid loss of adhesion.
distortion. Whatever the views on
the Stratos styling, though, there is
no doubting the fact that the glorious
metallic soundtrack
is wonderful.

SHARP END
Flimsy nose section concealed
spare wheel, radiator,
and twin thermostatically
controlled cooling fans.
Lancia Stratos 331

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Lancia Stratos (197380)


PRODUCTION 492
BODY STYLE Two-seater mid-engined
sports coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Fiberglass and steel unit
construction body chassis tub.
ENGINE 2418cc mid-mounted
transverse V6.
POWER OUTPUT 190 bhp at 7000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed manual in unit
REAR ASPECT with engine and transaxle.
A 1970s fad, the matte black plastic rear window SUSPENSION Independent front and rear
slats did little for rearward visibility. The raised with coil springs and wishbones.
rear spoiler did its best to keep the rear wheels BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
stuck to the road like lipstick on a collar. MAXIMUM SPEED 143 mph (230 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.0 sec
SAFETY BAR 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 16.7 sec
Safety bar was to protect the A.F.C. 18 mpg (6.4 km/l)
cabin in case the car rolled.

SUSPENSION
Rear springing was
by Lancia Beta-style
struts, with lower
wishbones.
332 Lancia Stratos

INTERIOR
The Stratos was hopeless as a day-to-day machine, with
a claustrophobic cockpit and woeful rear vision. The
width of 67 in (1.72 m) and the narrow cabin meant
that the steering wheel was virtually in the middle of
the car. Quality control was dire, with huge panel gaps,
mischievous wiring, and ventilation that did not work.

COMFORT RACE UNIT


Truncated cabin Factory rally versions had
was cramped, a four-valve V6 engine.
cheap, nasty, and WEIGHT
impossibly hot. The Stratos was a two-thirds
fiberglass featherweight,
tipping the scales at a whisker
over 2,000 lb (908 kg).

A DRIVERS CAR
Driving a Stratos hard
isnt easy. You sit almost
in the middle of the car
with the pedals offset to
the left and the steering
wheel to the right.
Ferocious acceleration,
monumental oversteer,
and lots of heat from the
engine make the Stratos
a real handful.
Lancia Stratos 333

RALLY SUCCESS
Lancia commissioned
Bertone to build a take-
no-prisoners rally
weapon, and the Stratos
debuted at the 1971
Turin Show. Despite
scooping three World
Championships, sales of
Stratos road cars were so
slow that they were still
available new up until 1980.

REAR COWL
Molded fiberglass rear
cowl lifted up by
undoing two clips,
giving access to
midships-mounted
power plant.

ENGINE
Lifted straight out of the Dino 246, DEEP WINDOWS
the 190 bhp transverse, mid-mounted Plexiglas side windows
V6 has four chain-driven camshafts are so deeply recessed
spinning in alloy heads, which sit just within the bodywork
6 in (15 cm) from your ear. Clutch that they can be fully
and throttle are incredibly stiff, which opened without causing
makes smooth driving an art form. any wind turbulence.
334 Lexus LFA

L EXUS LFA
FOR THEIR 20TH BIRTHDAY LEXUS went crazy and built a supercar. But what a
car! The LFA is like no other Lexus, with F1 technology, 65 percent carbon-
fiber construction, 200 mph (322 km/h) top speed, and one of the best engine
notes in the world. The 4.8-liter V10 is so fast-spinning that it can rev from
idle to 9,000 rpm in 0.6 secondstoo fast even for a conventional tachometer.
The six-speed sequential gearbox has just one clutch for faster changes and a
choice of seven different shift speeds. Dry sump lubrication, alloy subframes,
and a rear transaxle highlight the LFAs F1 origins. With such cutting-edge
technology, Lexus lost money on every LFA they built.

LIMITED EDITION
A team of 175 engineers built the LFA in a dedicated
factory, turning out one car a day. Numbers were
limited to only 500 units and customers were specially
chosen because they would not resell their cars for SOUND SYMPHONY
a profit. The last examples built were Nrburgring Engine note is
spec, good for 562 bhp and the most expensive EYES FRONT piped into cabin by
Japanese road cars ever sold. Engine is front-mounted twin sound ducts.
for perfect weight
distribution.
CARBON CAPTURE
Body is special carbon
reinforced polymer for
extreme lightness.
Lexus LFA 335

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Lexus LFA (2009)


PRODUCTION 500
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Carbon-fiber, aluminium.
ENGINE 4,805cc V10.
POWER OUTPUT 552 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Six-speed sequential.
SUSPENSION Double wishbone, multi-link.
BRAKES Four-wheel ceramic discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 202 mph (325 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 3.6 sec
WILD CHILD
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 7.6 sec
The design was hugely radical for traditional Lexus and meant
A.F.C. 17 mpg (7.2 km/l)
to endow the brand with badly needed sex appeal and glamour.
Using carbon-fiber saved 220.5 lb (100 kg) over an alloy body
and helped give the LFA a halo of technological modernity.

TOOLED UP
Carbon tub is made STOPPING POWER
using one of only two Rear Brembo brakes
laser looms in the world. have four pistons and WING FORCE
ceramic discs. Speed-sensitive rear wing
rises at over 50 mph (80.5
km/h) to aid down force.
336 Lincoln Continental (1964)

L INCOLN Continental (1964)


THERES AN UNSETTLING IRONY in the fact that John F. Kennedy was shot in a 61
Lincoln Continental. Like him, the revamped 61 Continental had a new integrity.
Substantial and innovative, it was bristling with new ideas and survived for nine
years without major change. The car fit for presidents was elegant, restrained,
and classically sculptured, perfect for Camelots new dynasty of liberalism. Ironic,
too, that JFK rather liked the Lincolnhe often used a stock White House
Continental for unofficial business. Nearly $7,000 bought one of the most
influential and best-built American cars of the Sixties. Not only did it carry a
two-year, 24,000-mile (39,000-km) warranty, but every engine was bench-tested
and each car given a 200-category shakedown. WASP America approved and
production doubled in the first year. Even the Industrial Design Institute was
impressed, awarding its coveted bronze medal for an outstanding contribution
of simplicity and design elegance.

LINEAR PROFILE
Apart from the gentle dip in the ENGINE
waistline at the back of the rear doors, Power was supplied by a huge 430cid
the roof and fender lines form two V8 that generated 320 bhp. Each
uninterrupted, almost parallel lines. Low, engine was tested at near maximum
wide, and mighty, the 60s Continental revs for three hours and then
was considered the epitome of good stripped down for inspection.
taste and discrimination.
Lincoln Continental (1964) 337

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Lincoln Continental Convertible


(1964)
PRODUCTION 3,328
BODY STYLE Four-door, five-seater
convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINE 430cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 320 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed Turbo-Drive
automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: control arms and
coil springs; Rear: leaf springs with
live axle.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 115 mph
INTERIOR (185 km/h)
Every Continental had power steering and windows, walnut 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 11 sec
cappings, a padded dashboard, lush carpets, and vacuum- A.F.C. 14 mpg (5 km/l)
powered door locks as standard. The locks operated
automatically as soon as the car started to move.

SOLE RAG-TOP SHARED COSTS


When the revamped Conti To spread costs, the
was released in 61, Lincoln Continental shared some
was the only manufacturer to of its factory tooling with
offer a four-door convertible. the 61 Thunderbird.
338 Lincoln Continental (1964)

EASY ACCESS
The suicide rear-hinged
doors hark back to classic
prewar construction. On older
Continental Convertibles, opening CRUISE CONTROL STEERING WHEEL
all four doors at once can actually Even in 64 you could Least popular option in
flex the floor and chassis. have cruise control, for 64 was the adjustable
a mere $96. steering wheel.

CONVERTIBLE RARITIES
Rag-top Continentals were really
convertible sedans with standard
power tops. The 64 rag-tops
cost only $646 more than
the four-door sedans, yet
they remain much
rarer: only about
10 percent of all
6167 Lincolns
produced were
convertibles.

TIRES
Whitewalls were just
one of numerous
features that came
asstandard.
Lincoln Continental (1964) 339

SUSPENSION
QUALITY NOT QUANTITY Suspension damping
The previous Conti was a was considered the
leviathan, but not the 61. The best on any car.
61 restyle reflected the philosophy
that big was not necessarily better.

STATE-OF-THE-ART TOP
Eleven relays and a maze of linkages
made the Continentals top disappear
neatly into the trunk. The wiring
was sealed and never needed
maintenance. Along with the
top, the side glass and
window frames also
disappeared from
view at the touch
of a button.

CONSUMPTION
The Mark III
Continental returned
fuel figures of just
14 mpg (5 km/l).
340 Lotus Elite

L OTUS Elite
IF EVER A CAR WAS A BRAND landmark, this is it. The Elite was the first Lotus
designed for road use rather than outright racing, paving the way for a string of
stunning sports and GT cars that, at the least, were always innovative. But the
first Elite was much more than that. Its all-fiberglass constructionchassis as well
as bodywas a bold departure that, coupled with many other innovations, marked
the Elite as truly exceptional, and all the more so considering the small-scale
operation that created it. Whats more, its built-in Lotus race-breeding gave it
phenomenal handling and this, together with an unparalleled power-to-weight
ratio, brought an almost unbroken run of racing successes. It also happens to
be one of the prettiest cars of its era; in short, a superb GT in miniature.

CHAPMAN CREATION
The Elite was the brainchild of FILLER CAP
company founder and great racing Quick-release fuel
innovator, Anthony Colin Bruce cap was an option
Chapman. The elegant coupe was many chose.
a remarkable departure for the
small companyand, to most,
a complete surprise when it
appeared at the London Motor
Show in October 1957.
Lotus Elite 341

LOW DRAG
Low frontal area, with air intake below
the bumper lip, helped Elite speed and
economy. Drag coefficient was 0.29,
a figure most other manufacturers
would not match for
20 years.

HANDLE
Tiny door handle
was little more
WINDSHIELD RACE SUCCESS than a hook.
Concealed steel hoop around Elites were uncatchable in
windshield added stiffness and their class, claiming Le Mans
gave some rollover protection. class wins six years in a row WHEELS
from 1959 to 1964. 48-spoke center-lock
Dunlop wire wheels
were standard.
342 Lotus Elite

AIR EVASION
SPECIFICATIONS The Elites aerodynamic makeup INTERIOR
is remarkable considering there were Even tall owners were universal
MODEL Lotus Elite (195763) no full-scale wind-tunnel tests, only in their praise for driving
PRODUCTION 988 low-speed air-flow experiments. comfort. The award winning
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater The height of just 46 in (1.17 m) interior was crisp and neat, with
sports coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Fiberglass monocoque.
helped, as did the fully enclosed light, modern materials.
ENGINE Four-cylinder single ohc Coventry
undertray below.
Climax, 1216cc.
POWER OUTPUT 75105 bhp at
61006800 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed MG
or ZF gearbox.
SUSPENSION Independent all around
by wishbones and coil springs at front and
MacPherson-type Chapman strut at rear.
BRAKES Discs all around (inboard at rear).
MAXIMUM SPEED 118 mph (190 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 11.1 sec
A.F.C. 35 mpg (12.5 km/l)

ECONOMY
Contemporary road
tests recorded a
remarkable 25 mpg
(8.8 km/l) at
a steady 100 mph
(161 km/h).

SUSPENSION
Suspension was
derived from the
Lotus Formula 2
car of 1956.
Lotus Elite 343

STRESSED ROOF
The roof was part of the Elites stressed
structure, which meant that popular calls
for a convertibleespecially from
Americacould not be answered.
The solution came when the Elan
was launched in 1962.

ROOF
SE (Special
Equipment) models
had silver roof as a
delete option.

UNIT ORIGINS
Engine was developed
BUMPERS from a wartime fire-
Both front and pump engine.
rear bumpers hid
body molding seams.

ENGINE
The lightweight 1216cc
four-cylinder engine was
developed by Coventry
Climax from their
successful racing units.
The units power rose
from an initial 75 bhp to
83 bhp in the Elites second
series, but it was possible to
extract over 100 bhp with options.
344 Lotus Elan Sprint

L OTUS Elan Sprint


THE LOTUS ELAN RANKS AS one of the best handling cars of its era. But not only
was it among the most poised cars money could buy, it was also a thing of beauty.
Conceived by engineering genius Colin Chapman to replace the race-bred Lotus 7,
the Elan sat on a steel backbone chassis, clothed in a slippery fiberglass body, and
powered by a 1600cc Ford twin-cam engine. Despite a high price tag, critics and
public raved and the Elan became one of the most charismatic sports cars of its
decade, selling over 12,000 examples. Over an 11-year production life, with five
different model series, it evolved into a very desirable and speedy machine,
culminating in the Elan Sprint, a 121 mph (195 km/h) banshee with a sub-seven
second 060 (96 km/h) time. As one car magazine of the time remarked,
The Elan Sprint is one of the finest sports cars in the world. Praise indeed.

RACE ASSOCIATION INTERIOR


The duo-tone paintwork with dividing The Sprints interior was refined
strip was a popular factory option for the and upmarket, with all-black
Sprint. The red and gold combination had trim, wood veneer dashboard,
racing associationsthe same look as the and even electric windows.
Gold Leaf racing team cars. Everybody
agreed that the diminutive Elan had
an elfin charm.

TRUNK SPACE
The Elan was popular as a
touring car because, despite
housing the battery, its trunk
was larger than average.
Lotus Elan Sprint 345

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Lotus Elan Sprint (197073)


PRODUCTION 1,353
BODY STYLE Two-seater drophead.
CONSTRUCTION Steel box section
backbone chassis.
ENGINE Four-cylinder twin overhead
cam, 1558cc.
POWER OUTPUT 126 bhp at 6500 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Independent front
and rear.
BRAKES Discs all around.
MAXIMUM SPEED 121 mph (195 km/h)
ENGINE 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.7 sec
The Big Valve engine in the Sprint 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 15 sec
pushed out 126 bhp and blessed it with truly A.F.C. 24 mpg (8.5 km/l)
staggering performance. The twin 40 DCOE
Weber carburetors were hard to keep in tune.

STYLING
Perfectly proportioned from any WRAPAROUND BUMPERS
angle, the Elan really looked Front bumper was foam-filled
like it meant business. fiberglass and the Elan was one
of the first cars to be equipped
with bumpers that followed
the cars contours.

BRAKES
Servo-assisted disc
brakes provided
tremendous
stopping power.
346 Maserati Ghibli

M ASERATI Ghibli
MANY BELIEVE THE GHIBLI is the greatest of all road-going Maseratis. It was the
sensation of the 1966 Turin Show, and over 30 years later is widely regarded as
Maseratis ultimate front-engined road cara supercar blend of luxury, performance,
and stunning good looks that never again quite came together so sublimely on
anything with the three-pointed trident. Pitched squarely against the Ferrari Daytona
(see page 233) and Lamborghini Miura (see page 31821), it outsold both. Its engineering
may have been dated, but it had the perfect pedigree, with plenty of power from its
throaty V8 engine and a flawless Ghia design. It is an uncompromised supercar, yet
it is also a consummate continent-eating grand tourer with 24-karat cachet. Muscular
and perhaps even menacing, but not overbearingly macho, it is well mannered enough
for the tastes of the mature super-rich. There will only be one dilemma; do you take
the windy back roads or blast along the highways? Why not a little of both.

RACING STANCE
The Ghiblis dramatic styling is WIDE VIEW
uncompromised, a sublime and The windshield was huge,
extravagant 15 ft (4.57 m) of attitude that but the mighty hood could
can only accommodate two people. From make the Ghibli difficult
its bladelike front to its short, bobbed tail, to maneuver.
it looks fast even in static pose. It has also
aged all the better for its lack of finicky
detail; the Ghiblis detail is simple and
clean, worn modestly like fine,
expensive jewelry.

WHEELBASE
The Ghiblis
wheelbase measured
100 in (255 cm).
Maserati Ghibli 347

ACCELERATION RAG-TOP CACHET CARB-HEAVY


The mile (1.61 km) The most prized of all Ghiblis are the 125 Four greedy twin-choke
could be reached in convertible Spidersout of a total Ghibli Weber carbs sat astride
just 15.1 seconds. production figure of 1,274, only just the V8.
over 100 were Spiders.
THIRSTY
The Ghibli was a gas
guzzler, but when was there
an economical supercar?

BRAKES
Vented Girling discs
with vacuum assist
were on all four wheels.
348 Maserati Ghibli

UNDER THE HOOD


The potent race-bred quad-
cam V8 is even-tempered HEIGHT
and undemanding, delivering At 47 in (118 cm),
loads of low-down torque the Ghibli was a
and accelerating meaningfully low sports coupe in
from as little as 500 rpm in the truest sense.
fifth gear. This 1971 Ghibli
SS has the 4.9-liter unit.

INTERIOR
A clich certainly, but here you really feel you
are on an aircraft flight deck. The high center
console houses air-conditioning, which was
standard Ghibli equipment. The steering wheel
is adjustable and power steering was a later,
desirable optional extra.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Maserati Ghibli (196773)


PRODUCTION 1,274
BODY STYLES Two-door sports coupe
or open Spider.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and separate
tubular chassis.
ENGINES Four-cam 90-degree V8, 4719cc
or 4930cc (SS).
POWER OUTPUT 330 bhp at 5000 rpm
(4719cc); 335 bhp at 5500 rpm (4930cc).
TRANSMISSION ZF five-speed manual or
three-speed Borg-Warner auto.
SUSPENSION Wishbones and coil-springs
at front; rigid axle with radius arms/semi-
elliptic leaf springs at rear.
BRAKES Girling discs on all four wheels.
MAXIMUM SPEED 154 mph (248 km/h),
168 mph (270 km/h, SS)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.6 sec,
6.2 sec (SS)
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 15.7 sec
A.F.C. 10 mpg (3.5 km/l) TRIDENT
Masers are instantly recognizable
by the three-pointed trident.
Maserati Ghibli 349

EARLY GUIGIARO
Bodywork by Ghia was one of
the finest early designs of their
brilliant young Italian employee,
Giorgetto Giugiaro. He was later
to enhance his reputation with
many other beautiful creations.

WHATS IN A NAME?
Like the earlier Mistral and the Bora, the
Ghibli took its name from a regional wind.
The Merak,which was introduced in 1972,
was named after the smaller star of the
constellationof the Plow. Other
Maserati names were more
race-inspired, including Indy,
Sebring, and Mexico.

HIDEAWAY HEADLIGHTS
Pop-up headlights might have
improved looks when not needed, but
they took their time to pop up. The
LIFT OFF Ghibli cost nearly $22,000 new in
Wide front had a tendency to 1971, but buyers could be assured
lift above 120 mph (193 km/h). thatthey were getting a real supercar.
350 Maserati Kyalami

M ASERATI Kyalami
THE 1970S PRODUCED some true automotive lemons. It was a decade when
barefaced badge engineering and gluttonous V8 engines were all the rage, and nobody
cared that these big bruisers cost three arms and a leg to run. The Kyalami is one
such monument to excess, a copy of the De Tomaso Longchamp with Maseratis
all-alloy V8 on board instead of Fords 5.8-liter cast-iron lump. The Kyalami was
meant to compete with the Jaguar XJS but failed hopelessly. Plagued with electrical
gremlins, this was a noisy, bulky, and unrefined machine that was neither beautiful
nor poised. Yet despite all that, it still sports that emotive trident on its nose and
emits a deep and strident V8 bark. The Kyalami might not be a great car, but most
of us, at least while looking at it, find it hard to tell the difference.

DE TOMASO ADAPTATION
Maserati designer Pietro Frua retouched the De
Tomaso Longchamp design, turning it into the
Kyalami. He gave it a new lower nose with twin
lights, full width hood, and new rubber-cap
bumpers with integral indicators.

REAR LIGHTS
Dainty rear light
clusters were borrowed
from the contemporary
Fiat 130 Coupe.
Maserati Kyalami 351

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Maserati Kyalami 4.9 (197682)


PRODUCTION 250 approx.
BODY STYLE Two-door, 2+2 sports saloon.
CONSTRUCTION Steel monocoque body.
ENGINE 4930cc all-alloy V8.
POWER OUTPUT 265 bhp at 6000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed ZF manual or
three-speed Borg Warner automatic.
SUSPENSION Independent front with
coil springs and wishbones. Independent
rear with double coils, lower links, and
radius arms.
BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 147 mph (237 km/h)
NOT A PRETTY FACE 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.6 sec
The frontal aspect is mean but clumsy. The three-part 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 19.4 sec
front bumper looks cheap, while the Maserati grille A.F.C. 14 mpg (3.6 km/l)
and trident seem to have been bolted
on as afterthoughts.
STEERING ENGINE
Power-assisted steering robbed the car The engine was a four-cam, five-bearing
of much needed accuracy and feel. 4.9 V8, with four twin-choke Weber
carbs, propelling the Kyalami to a
touch under 150 mph (241 km/h).

TIRES
The Kyalami generated
lots of commotion from
fat 205/70 Michelins.
352 Mazda RX7

M AZDA RX7
THE RX7 ARRIVED IN American showrooms in 1978 and sales promptly went
crazy. Even importing 4,000 a month, Mazda could not cope with demand and
waiting lists were huge. For a while, RX7s changed hands on the black market for
as much as $3,000 above retail price. By the time production ceased in 1985, nearly
500,000 had found grateful owners, making the RX7 the best-selling rotary car of
all time. The RX7 sold on its clean European looks and Swiss-watch smoothness.
Inspired by the woefully unreliable NSU Ro80 (see pages 38283), Mazdas engineers
were not worried about the NSUs ghost haunting the RX7. By 1978 they had
completely mastered rotary-engine technology and sold almost a million rotary-
engined cars and trucks. These days the RX7 is becoming an emergent classic
the first car to make Felix Wankels rotary design actually work and one of the
more desirable and better made sports cars of the 1970s.
IMPRESSIVE AERODYNAMICS
The RX7s slippery, wind-evading shape cleaved the
air well, with a drag coefficient of only 0.36 and a
top speed of 125 mph (210 km/h). Smooth
aerodynamics helped the RX7 feel
stable and composed with
minimal body roll.

SUSPENSION
Rear suspension was in
the best European sports
car traditionwishbones
and a Watts linkage.
Mazda RX7 353

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Maxda RX7 (197885)


PRODUCTION 474,565 (377,878 exported
to US)
BODY STYLE All-steel coupe.
CONSTRUCTION One-piece monocoque
bodyshell.
ENGINE Twin rotor, 1146cc.
POWER OUTPUT 135 bhp at 6000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed all
synchromesh/automatic option.
SUSPENSION Independent front.
Live rear axle with trailing arms
and Watts linkage.
BRAKES Front: ventilated discs;
Rear: drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 125 mph (210 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.9 sec
PERFECT DESIGN 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 24 sec
The body design was perfect from the start, and A.F.C. 21.3 mpg (7.5 km/l)
in its seven-year production run few changes
were made to the slim and balanced shape.

HANDLING HOOD
Fine handling was due to near equal weight The RX7s low hood line
distribution and the low center of gravity. could not have been achieved
with anything but the compact
rotary engine, which weighed
only 312 lb (142 kg).

BRAKES
Front discs were ventilated;
rear stopping power was by
traditional drums.
354 Mazda RX7

LEGAL IMPLICATIONS
The RX7 was originally planned as a two-
seater, but Mazda was forced to include
a small rear seat in the model. The
reasoning behind this was that Japanese
law stated all cars had to have more than
two seats to encourage car sharing.

INTERIOR
Cockpit and dashboard are tastefully REAR PLANS
orthodox, with a handsome three-spoke Original design plans for the
wheel and five-gauge instrument RX7 favored a one-piece rear
binnacle; the two large dials are a tailgate like the Porsche 944,
speedometer and tachometer. but economics dictated that
an all-glass hatch was TURBO
incorporated instead. The US could enjoy
a brisk 135 mph
(217 km/h)
turbocharged model
after 1984.
Mazda RX7 355

ENGINE
The twin-rotor Wankel engine gave
135 bhp in later models. Reliable,
compact, and easy to tune, there was
even a small electric winch on the
ENGINE FLAWS HEADLIGHTS bulkhead to reel in the choke if
The Wankel-designed Pop-up headlights helped owners forgot to push it back in.
rotary engine had two reduce wind resistance and
weak pointslow speed add glamour. But, unlike
pull and fuel economy. those on the Lotus Esprit EUROPEAN STYLING
and Triumph TR7, the For a Japanese design, the RX7 was
Mazdas always worked. atypically European, with none of the
garish overadornment associated with
other cars from Japan. Occasional rear
seats and liftback rear window helped
in the practicality department.
356 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing

M ERCEDES -B ENZ 300SL Gullwing


WITH ITS GORGEOUS GULLWING doors raised, the 300SL looked like it could fly.
And with them lowered shut it really could, rocketing beyond 140 mph (225 km/h)
and making its contemporary supercar pretenders look ordinary. Derived from the
1952 Le Mans-winning racer, these mighty coupes were early forebears of modern
supercars like the Jaguar XJ220 and McLaren F1 in taking racetrack technology
on to the streets. In fact, the 300SL can lay a plausible claim to being the first
true postwar supercar. Awkward to enter, and with twitchy high-speedhandling,
it was sublimely impracticalit is a virtual supercar
blueprint. It was a statement, too, that Mercedes had
recovered from war-time devastation. Mercedes was back,
and at the pinnacle of that three-pointed star was the
fabulous 300SL, the companys first postwar sports car.

AERODYNAMICS
Detailed attention to aerodynamics was
streets ahead of anything else at the time
and helped make the 300SL the undisputed
fastest road car of its era. Road cars
developed 240 bhp, more than the
racing versions of two
years earlier.

WHEELS
Some say steel discs were used to
keep costs down, but they also
look more muscular than wires.
Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing 357

GULLWING DOORS
The cars most famous
feature was the roof-hinged
gullwing doors. With the high
and wide sills, they were a functional REAR VISION
necessity, rather than a finnicky design Rear vision was good
flourish. The gullwing doors were made but all that glass
of aluminum and were surprisingly light could turn the cockpit
to lift with help from hydraulic stays. into a greenhouse.

LEFT-HAND DRIVE
To the dismay of the UK
market, all Gullwings
were left-hand drive.

VENTS
Engine bay could get
very hot, so gill-like
side vents were more STYLING
than a mere Mercedes insisted that the eyebrows over the
styling motif. wheel arches were aerodynamic aids; it is more
likely they were US-aimed styling touches.

COLOR
Silver was the
official German
racing color.
358 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Mercedes-Benz 300SL (195457)


PRODUCTION 1,400
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seat coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Multitubular space-frame
with steel and alloy body.
ENGINE Inline six-cylinder overhead
camshaft, 2996cc.
POWER OUTPUT 240 bhp at 6100 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed all
synchromesh gearbox.
SUSPENSION Coil springs all around, with
double wishbones at front, swinging half-
axles at rear.
BRAKES Finned alloy drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 135165 mph
(217265 km/h), depending on gearing.
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.8 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 21.0 sec
A.F.C. 18 mpg (6.4 km/l)

SMOOTH REAR
The Gullwings smooth styling
extended to the clean rear; the trunk
lid suggests ample space, but this was
not the case. The cockpit became
quite hot, but air vents above the rear
window helped.

LIMITED SPACE
As this sales illustration
shows, with the spare tire
mounted atop the fuel
tank there was very little
room for luggage in the
Gullwings trunk.
Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing 359

300SL ROADSTER
As Gullwing production wound
down, Mercedes introduced the
300SL Roadster, which from 1957
to 1963 sold 1,858, compared to
the Gullwings 1,400. From 1955
to 1963 the 190SL Roadster served
as the poor mans 300SL.

SLANT SIX
The engine was canted at 50
degrees to give a low hood-line.
It was also the first application of
fuel injection in a production car.

POWER SOURCE TILT WHEEL


The engine was originally derived On some cars,
from the 300-Series 3-liter sedans, mostly for the US,
then developed for the 1952 300SL the wheel tilted to
racer, and two years later let loose ease access.
in the road-going Gullwing,
with fuel injection in
place of carburetors.

BULGES
One hood bulge was
for air intakes,
the other for
aesthetic balance.

STAR IDENTITY
The massive three-
pointed star dominated
the frontal aspect and
was repeated in enamel
on the hood edge.
360 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

M ERCEDES -B ENZ 280SL


THE MERCEDES 280SL HAS mellowed magnificently. In 1963, the new SLs took
over the sports mantle of the aging 190SL. They evolved from the original
230SL, through the 250SL, and on to the 280SL. The most remarkable thing
is how modern they look, for with their simple, clean-shaven good looks, it is
hard to believe that the last one was made in 1971. Underneath the timelessly
elegant sheet metal, they were based closely
on the earlier Fintail sedans, sharing even
the decidedly unsporty recirculating-
ball steering. Yet it is the looks that
mark this car as something special,
and the enduring design includes
its distinctive so-called
pagoda roof. This well-
manicured Mercedes is a
beautifully built boulevardier
that will induce a sense
of supreme self
satisfaction on
any journey.

SUSPENSION
Suspension was on
the soft side for
driving glove types.

TRADEMARK LIGHTS
So-called stacked
headlights are
unmistakable Mercedes
trademarks. Each outer
lens concealed one
headlamp, indicator,
and sidelights.
Mercedes-Benz 280SL 361

FRENCH DESIGN
Design of the 280SL was down to Frenchman
Paul Bracq. Some macho types may dismiss GEARING
it as a womans car, and it is certainly not the Relatively few cars
most hairy-chested of sporty Mercedes. were ordered with
a manual gearbox.
OPTIONAL THIRD CLAP HANDS HORN RING
The SL was essentially Windshield wipers were The D-shaped horn
a two-seater, although a of the characteristic ring allowed an
third, sideways-facing rear clap hands pattern unobstructed view
seat was available as a beloved of Mercedes. of the instruments.
(rare) optional extra.

CHROME BUMPER SL MOTIF


The full-width front bumper In Mercedes-speak, the S
featured a central recess that stood for Sport or Super, L
was just big enough for a for Leicht (light) and
standard license plate; the sometimes Luxus (luxury),
quality of the chrome, as although at well over
elsewhere on the car, 3,000 lb (1,362 kg) it was
was first class. not particularly light.
362 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Mercedes-Benz 280SL (196871)


PRODUCTION 23,885
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seat
convertible with detachable hardtop.
CONSTRUCTION Pressed-steel monocoque.
ENGINE 2778cc inline six; two valves per
cylinder; single overhead camshaft.
POWER OUTPUT 170 bhp at 5750 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four- or five-speed
manual,or optional four-speed auto.
SUSPENSION Front: independent,
wishbones, coil springs, telescopic dampers;
Rear: swing axle, coil springs, telescopic
dampers.
BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 121 mph
(195 km/h, auto)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 9.3 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 30.6 sec UNDER THE HOOD
A.F.C. 19 mpg (6.7 km/l) The six-cylinder ohc engine saw a
process of steady development
the 2281cc 230SL in 1963,
the 2496cc 250SL from
SAFE SUSPENSION 1966,and the final
Swing-axle rear suspension 2778cc280SL
was tamed to provide shown here
natural understeer. from 1968.
Mercedes-Benz 280SL 363

INTERIOR
With the huge steering wheel (albeit
attached to an energy-absorbing column),
the painted dash, and the abundance
of chrome, the interior is one area
where the 280SL shows its age.
LEATHER LOOK GEARSHIFT LIGHT
Seats were trimmed Only the 280
in leather-look vinyl automatic and some of PAGODA ROOF
or, at extra cost, the last 250s had the The most distinctive feature of the 280SL
real leather. neat illuminated is the so-called pagoda-roof removable
gearshift shown here. hardtop. It is said to have evolved from the
need to provide relatively deep windows
for a more balanced sideview of the car,
without making it look top-heavy.
364 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

M ERCEDES -B ENZ SLS AMG


THE SLS COUPE REALLY IS ONE of the worlds coolest rides, and the car I
chose to drive every day. A blisteringly fast, wild hot rod that doesnt rely
on electronic gizmos, it looks wonderfully menacing, has the best soundtrack
of any V8, and generates universal warm approval. Like the 1954 300SL
Gullwing (see pages 35659) that inspired it, the SLS is cramped, hard-riding,
and edgy at the limit but intoxicatingly rapid. The best handling and most
dramatic Mercedes ever, it is a worthy opponent to the Italian supercar set
but looks infinitely more separate and distinctive. Climbing in and out can
be a challenge but those crazy doors are the SLSs party piece. This is
outrageous automotive mischief at its very finest.
MANUAL DOORS
HAND CRAFTED Doors do not have electric
The 6.3-liter AMG V8 is a HERITAGE TOUCH motors to save weight.
masterpiece and each engine is hand Twin chrome slashes
assembled in-house by one man. over brake cooling vent
Tuned to deliver 112 bhp more than echo original 300SL. LIGHT FANTASTIC
the standard 6,300cc unit, 0100 Lightweight body is a
mph (0161 km/h) is dispatched in mix of aluminium and
an amazing 8 seconds. The Getrag plastic panels but is
seven-speed automatic has four extremely rigid.
switchable modes along with paddle-
shift manual. Driven carefully, an
SLS can return 23 mpg (9.8 km/l).
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG 365

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (2010)


MIND YOUR HEAD PRODUCTION N/A
Gullwing doors are BODY STYLE Two-seater coupe with
gullwing doors.
heavy and need long
CONSTRUCTION Alloy body panels with
arms to close. plastic boot lid.
ENGINE 6,208cc, V8.
POWER OUTPUT 563 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Seven-speed, dual-clutch
semi-automatic.
SUSPENSION Double wishbone, coil spring.
BRAKES Four-wheel discs, optional ceramic.
MAXIMUM SPEED 197 mph (317 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 3.8 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 8 sec
GO CAREFULLY A.F.C. 21 mpg (9 km/l)
Wider than an S-Class Mercedes, Jaguar XJ, or Range Rover,
the SLS can be hard work driving around town. Delicate AMG
alloy wheels are vulnerable to damage from high curbs and
costs $3,720 a piece to replace.
STOPPING POWER
Orange caliper ceramic brakes
are optional and help reduce
fade on the track.
366 MG TC Midget

MG TC Midget
EVEN WHEN IT WAS NEW, the MG TC was not new. Introduced in September 1945,
it displayed a direct lineage back to its prewar forbears. If you were a little short
on soul, you might even have called it old fashioned. Yet it was a trailblazer, not
in terms of performance, but in opening up new export markets. Popular myth
has it that American GIs stationed in England latched on to these quaint sporting
devices, and when they got home were eager to take a little piece of England with
them. Whatever the reality, it was the first in a long line of MG export successes.
There was simply nothing remotely like this TC tiddler coming out of Detroit.
It had a cramped cockpit, harsh ride, and lacked creature comforts; but when
the road got twisty the TC could show
you its tail and leave soft-sprung
sofa-cars lumbering in its wake.
It was challenging to drive,
and all the more rewarding
when you did it right.

EXHAUST
Deep exhaust note
wasmusic to the ears.
MG TC Midget 367

TRADITIONAL CLASSIC RAW MOTORING


With its square-rigged layout, the TC is traditional While the TC may have been short on
with a capital T, and certainly a classic before sophistication, it contained essential elements,
the term was applied to cars. With its square such as wind-in-your-hair driving, that
front and separate headlights, sweeping front marked it as a true enthusiasts sporting
fenders, and cutaway doors, it is a true classic. car in the car-starved late 1940s.
368 MG TC Midget

ENGINE
Ease of accessibility and maintenance
was another of the TCs attractions.
The XPAG engine was first used on
some TB Midgets in 1939, then
became standard MG gear until
replaced by a 1500cc version in
1955. The TC was a popular race
car, especially in the US,
where it launched
many careers and one
world champion,
Phil Hill.

OVERSEAS WINNER
Two TCs were
exported for every
one sold at home.

COCKPIT
Roomier than earlier
Midgets, the TC cockpit
was still cramped by
comparison with less
RIGHT-HANDERS sporting contemporaries.
Although over 2,000 were
sold in America, all TCs
were right-hand drive.

INTERIOR
Big Jaeger dials were in
true British sporting
tradition; the driver got
the tachometer, while the
speedo was in front of
the passenger. A warning
light on the dashboard
to the left of the speedo
illuminated if you
exceeded Britains
30 mph (48 km/h)
urban speed limit.
MG TC Midget 369

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL MG TC Midget (194749)


PRODUCTION 10,000
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater sports.
CONSTRUCTION Channel-section ladder-
type chassis; ash-framed steel body.
ENGINE Four-cylinder overhead valve
1250cc, with twin SU carburetors.
POWER OUTPUT 54 bhp at 5200 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed gearbox with
synchromesh on top three.
SUSPENSION Rigid front and rear axles
on semi-elliptic springs, lever-type
shock absorbers.
BRAKES Lockheed hydraulic drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 73 mph (117 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 22.7 sec
A.F.C. 28 mpg (9.9 km/l)

CONTINUED SUCCESS REPLACEMENT TD


The export trend begun so The TC was replaced by the TD, BRAKES
successfully by the TC really which with its smaller disc Lockheed drum
took off with the TD, which wheels, chrome hubcaps, and brakes balanced the
sold three times the number. bumpers, some MG aficionados limited power output.
considered less pure.
370 MGA

MG A
LAUNCHED IN SEPTEMBER 1955, the MGA was the first of the modern sports
MGs. The chassis, engine, and gearbox were all new, as was the smooth, Le Mans-
inspired bodywork. Compared to its predecessorthe TF, which still sported old-
fashioned running boardsthe MGA was positively futuristic. Buyers thought so
too, and being cheaper than its nearest rivals, the Triumph TR3 and Austin Healey
100, helped MG sell 13,000 cars in the first year of the MGAs production. The
companys small factory at Abingdon, nearOxford, England, managed
to export a staggering 81,000 MGAs to America. The
car also earned an enviable reputation in competition,
with the Twin Cam being the most powerful of
the MGA engines. VENTILATION
The chromed, shroud-panel
vents at the front were for
engine bay ventilation.

ENGINE
The tough B-Series, push-rod engine went
well and lasted forever. A heater unit in
front of the bulkhead was an optional
extra. The 1600 model pushed out 80 bhp
and featured front-disc brakes.
MGA 371
WHEELS MATERIALS
Perforated steel Door skins, hood, and
wheelswere standard. trunk were light alloy.

RACE ORIGINS CONSTRUCTION


The slippery, wind-evading shape of the MGAs had a separate chassis, with
MGA was created for racing at Le Mans the body bolted on top. The
an early prototype achieved 116 mph bodies were welded, painted, and
(187 km/h). Production MGAs were trimmed at Morris Bodies in
very similar and the smooth hood and Coventry and then transported
sloping fenders aid both top speed to Abingdon for the final fitting
and fuel consumption. of mechanical equipment.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL MGA (195562)


PRODUCTION 101,081
BODY STYLE Two-door sports coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel.
ENGINES Four-cylinder 1489cc, 1588cc,
1622cc (Twin Cam).
POWER OUTPUT 72 bhp, 80 bhp,
85 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Front: independent;
Rear: leaf-spring.
BRAKES Rear drums, front discs.
All discs on De Luxe and Twin Cam.
MAXIMUM SPEED 100 mph
(161 km/h); 113 mph (181 km/h)
(Twin Cam)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 15 sec
(13.3 sec, Twin Cam)
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 47 sec
(41 sec, Twin Cam)
A.F.C. 2025 mpg (78.8 km/l)
372 MGB

MG B
WIDELY ADMIRED FOR ITS uncomplicated nature, timeless good looks, and brisk
performance, the MGB caused a sensation back in 1962. The now famous
advertising slogan Your mother wouldnt like it was quite wrong. She would
have wholeheartedly approved of the MGBs reliability, practicality, and good
sense. In 1965 came the even more practical tin-top MGB GT. These were the
halcyon days of the MGBchrome bumpers, leather seats, and wire wheels.
In 1974, in pursuit of modernity and American safety regulations (the MGBs main
market), the factory burdened the B with ungainly rubber bumpers, a higher ride
height, and garish striped nylon seats, making the car slow, ugly, and unpredictable
at the limit. Yet the B went on to become the best-selling single model sports car
ever, finding 512,000 grateful owners throughout the world.
SIMPLE MECHANICS TOP
All MGBs had the simple 1798cc B-series Early cars had
four-cylinder engine with origins going a packaway
back to 1947. This Tourers period charm top made from
is enhanced by the rare Iris Blue paintwork ICI Everflex.
and rare pressed-steel wheelsmost
examples were equipped with optional
spoked wire wheels.

AGELESS DESIGN
The MGBs shape was a
miracle of compact packaging.
The one-piece steel monocoque
bodyshell was strong and roomy.
MGB 373

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL MGB Tourer (19621980)


PRODUCTION 512,243
BODY STYLE Steel front-engined two seater
with aluminum hood.
CONSTRUCTION One-piece monocoque
bodyshell.
ENGINE Four-cylinder 1798cc.
POWER OUTPUT 92 bhp at 5400 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed with overdrive.
SUSPENSION Front: independent coil;
Rear: half-elliptic leaf springs.
BRAKES Lockheed discs front, drums rear.
MAXIMUM SPEED 106 mph (171 km/h)
INSIDE THE MG 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 12.2 sec
The interior was vintage traditionalism at its best. 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 37 sec
Leather seats, crackle black metal dash, nautical- A.F.C. 25 mpg (8.8 km/l)
sized steering wheel, and minor controls were
strewn about the dash like boulders with
scant thought for ergonomics.
MIRROR SUPPORT
The line down the center HOOD SUSPENSION
of the windshield was a Hood was made Front suspension was coil
mirror support rod. out of lightweight spring with wishbones,
aluminum. and dated back to the
MG TF of the 1950s.
374 Morgan Plus Four

M ORGAN Plus Four


IT IS REMARKABLE THAT MORGANS are still made, but there is many a gent with a cloth
cap and corduroys who is grateful that they are. Derived from the first four-wheeled
Morgans of 1936, this is the car that buoyed Morgan on after the war while many of
the old mainstays of the British auto industry wilted around it. Tweedier than a
Scottish moor on the first day of the grouse shooting season, it is as quintessentially
English as a car can be. It was a hit in America and other foreign parts, and it has also
remained the backbone of the idiosyncratic Malvern-based company, which refuses
to move with the times. Outdated and outmoded, Morgans are still so admired they
hardly depreciate at all. First introduced in 1951, the Plus Four, with a series of
Standard Vanguard and Triumph TR engines, laid the foundations for the modern
miracle of the very old-fashioned Morgan Motor Company.

MODERN MORGAN SUICIDE DOORS


The second-generation Plus Four was the The earlier two-seat drophead
first of what are generally considered the coupe retained rear-hinged
modern-looking Morgansif that is the suicide doors; sports models
right expression for a basic design which, had front-hinged doors.
still in production today, dates back to 1936.

ON THE RACK
Morgans have limited luggage
capacity, so many
owners attached
external
racks.
Morgan Plus Four 375

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Morgan Plus Four (195169)


PRODUCTION 3,737
BODY STYLES Two- and four-seater
sports convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel chassis, ash frame,
steel and alloy outer panels.
ENGINES 2088cc overhead-valve inline four
(Vanguard); 1991cc or 2138cc overhead-
valve inline four (TR).
POWER OUTPUT 105 bhp at 4700 rpm
(2138cc TR engine).
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Front: sliding stub axles,
coil springs, and telescopic dampers;
Rear: live axle, semi-elliptic leaf springs,
and lever-arm dampers.
BRAKES Drums front and rear; front discs
REAR ILLUMINATION standard from 1960.
Rear lights have never been a Morgan strong MAXIMUM SPEED 100 mph (161 km/h)
point. Amber indicators are a good 6 in (15 cm) 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 12 sec
inboard of the brake lights, and partially A.F.C. 2022 mpg (77.8 km/l)
obscured by the luggage rack.

SUSPENSION
The Plus Four retained
simple sliding-pillar
front suspension.
376 Morgan Plus Four

INTERIOR TOP
From 1958, Plus Fours had a Unlike most convertible
slightly wider cockpit with a new cars, the Plus Four has a
dash. Speedometer, switches, top which can be
warning lights, and minor partially folded back.
gaugeswere grouped
in a central panel.

REVISED FEATURES
Major distinguishing features on the
second-generation Morgan include
the cowled radiator grille and, from
1959, a wider body (as
here) to provide more
elbow room for
driver and passenger.
The doors were the
only sensible places
for external
side mirrors.

LIGHT WORK
Headlights are big, bold
affairs set in pods on the
front fenders, but sidelights
are about as visible as a
pair of glowworms.
Morgan Plus Four 377

TRADITIONAL ASH FRAME HINGED HOOD


The current four-cylinder Morgan is Like all Morgans, the
built in exactly the same manner as most Plus Four has a hinged
of its predecessors. The chassis is made two-piece hood.
from Z-section steel members, and on
it sits a 94- or 114-piece wooden
framework (two- and four-seat cars,
respectively) clothed in a mixture of
steel and aluminum panels. Today the
company builds just two cars: the Plus
Four and the Plus Eight.

ENGINE
The later Triumph TR3A 2138cc engine,
as here, provided increased torque. The
2138cc engine was available in the TR3A
from summer 1957. The earlier Triumph
1991cc engine was still available for
those wishing to compete in sub-two-
liter racing classes.
378 Morris Minor MM Convertible

M ORRIS Minor MM Convertible


THE MORRIS MINOR IS A motoring milestone. As Britains first million seller it
became a peoples car, staple transportation for everyone from nurses to
construction workers. Designed by Alec Issigonis, the genius who later went
on to pen the Austin Mini (see pages 4447), the new Series MM Morris Minor of
1948 featured the then novel unitary chassis-body construction. The 918cc side-
valve engine of the MM was rather more antique, a carryover from the prewar
Morris 8. Its handling and ride comfort more than made up for the lack of
power. With independent front suspension and crisp rack-and-pinion steering it
embarrassed its rivals and even tempted the young Stirling Moss into high-speed
cornering antics that lost him his license for a month. Of all the 1.5 million
Minors the most prized are the now rare Series MM convertibles.
RARE RAGTOPS
Ragtops remained part of the Minor
model lineup until 1969, two years from
the end of all Minor production. They
represent only a small proportion of
Minor production. Between 1963
and 1969 only 3,500 soft-
tops were produced
compared with
119,000 two-
door sedans.

SUSPENSION
Morris bean counters
dictated old-fashioned live-axle
and leaf springs at the rear.
Morris Minor MM Convertible 379

FENDERS SPECIFICATIONS
Both front and rear
fenders were easily MODEL Morris Minor (194871)
replaced, bolt-on items. PRODUCTION 1,620,000
BODY STYLES Two- and four-door
sedan, two-door convertible (Tourer),
wagon (Traveller), van, and pickup.
CONSTRUCTION Unitary body/chassis;
steel.
ENGINES Straight-four, 918cc, 803cc,
948cc, and 1098cc.
SIDE WINDOWS MINOR SIGNALING POWER OUTPUT 28 bhp (918cc);
48 bhp (1098cc).
Original MM With no door pillars above waist height,
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual.
Tourer had side curtains, semaphore indicators were mounted
SUSPENSION Torsion bar independent
replaced by glass rear lower down on the tourers; flashers front suspension; live-axle leaf-spring rear.
windows in 1952. eventually replaced semaphores in 1961. BRAKES Drums all around.
Few Minors today have their MAXIMUM SPEED 6275 mph
original semaphores. (100121 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 50+ sec for
918cc, 24 sec for 1098cc.
A.F.C. 3643 mpg (12.715.2 km/l)
380 Morris Minor MM Convertible

ENGINE
The original 918cc side-valve engine was
replaced progressively in 1952 and 1953 by
the Austin A-series 803cc overhead valve
engine, then by the A-series 948cc,
and finally the 1098cc. Power outputs
rose from 28 bhp on the 918
to 48 bhp on the 1098.

ENGINE ACCESS
Space and easy engine access
make the Minor a do-it-
yourself favorite.

LOW LIGHTS
In 1950, the headlights
on all Minors were moved
to the top of the fenders.
Earlier models such as
thecar featured here
arenow dubbed
low lights.

HANDLING
Even on cross-ply tires
the original Minor won
praise for its handling;
one journalist described it
as one of the fastest
slowcars in existence.
Morris Minor MM Convertible 381

INTERIOR
This simple early
dashboard was
never really updated,
but the speedo was later
moved to the central console. The sprung-spoke
steering wheel was traditional, but rack-and-
pinion steering gave a crisp, light feel.

WINDSHIELD ADVERTISING
The split windshield Sales literature described
was replaced by a the Minor as The Best
curved screen in 1956. Little Car in the World.
FAKE CONVERTIBLES
So desirable are these open
tourers that in recent years
there has been a trade in
rogue ragtopschopped
sedans masquerading as
original factory convertibles.

MODEL CHOICE
At 61 in (155 cm) the
production car was 4 in
(10 cm) wider than the
prototype. At its launch
the Minor was available
as a two-door sedan and
as a convertible (Tourer).
A four-door, a wagon, a
van,and a pickup later
completed the line.

WIDENED BODY
The fillet in the bumper
is another sign of the
widening of the body.
382 NSU Ro80

NSU Ro80
ALONG WITH THE CITRON DS (see pages 17881), the NSU Ro80 was 10 years ahead
of itself. Beneath that striking, wind-evading shape was an audacious twin-rotary
engine, front-wheel drive, disc brakes, and a semi-automatic clutchless gearbox. In
1967, the Ro80 won the acclaimed Car of the Year award and went on to be hailed
by many as Car of the Decade. Technical preeminence aside, it also handled like
a kartthe Ro80s stability, roadholding, ride, steering, and dynamic balance were
exceptional, and far superior to most sports and GT cars. But NSUs brave new
Wankel power unit was flawed and, due to acute rotor tip wear, would expire after
only 1520,000 miles (2432,000 km). NSU honored their warranty claims until they
bled white and eventually Audi/VW took over, axing the Ro80 in 1977.

PASSENGER SPACE
With no transmission tunnel or propshaft, plenty of
headroom, and a long wheelbase, rear passengers
found the Ro80 thoroughly accommodating.

ROTARY RELIABILITY
Modern technology has
made the troublesome
Wankel engine reliable
now, and prices of Ro80s
have been creeping
gently upward.

FUTURISTIC DESIGN
In 1967, the Ro80 looked like a
vision of the future with its low
center of gravity, huge glass area,
and sleek aerodynamics. The high
rear end, widely imitated a decade
later, held a huge, deep trunk.
NSU Ro80 383

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NSU Ro80 (196777)


PRODUCTION 37,204
BODY STYLE Front-engine five-
seater sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Integral chassis with
pressed steel monocoque body.
ENGINE Two-rotor Wankel, 1990cc.
POWER OUTPUT 113.5 bhp at
5500 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed
semiautomatic.
SUSPENSION Independent all around.
BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 112 mph
UNDER THE HOOD (180 km/h)
Designed by Felix Wankel, the brilliant twin-rotary 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 11.9 sec
engine was equivalent to a two-liter reciprocating piston 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 25 sec
unit. Drive was through a torque converter with a A.F.C. 20 mpg (7 km/l)
Fichel & Sachs electro-pneumatic servo to a
three-speed NSU gearbox.

INTERIOR
Power steering was by ENGINE POSITION
ZF, and the dashboard The engine was set on four
was a paragon of hassle- progressive-acting mounts with
free Teutonic efficiency. telescopic shock absorbers on
each side of the gearbox casing.

WHEELS
Stylish five-spoke
alloys were
optional equipment.
384 Oldsmobile Toronado

O LDSMOBILE Toronado
THE FIRST BIG FRONT-WHEEL DRIVE land yacht since the Cord 810 of the Thirties,
the Toronado was an automotive milestone and the most desirable Olds ever. With
a 425cid V8 and unique chain-and-sprocket-drive automatic transmission, it had
big-car power, outstanding road manners, and could crack 135 mph (217 km/h).
Initial sales werent great, with sober buyers choosing the more conventional Riviera;
but by 71 the Rivieras design had lost its way and the Toronado really came
into its own, selling up to 50,000 a year until the mid-Seventies. From then on,
however, the more glamorous Cadillac Eldorado outsold both the Riviera and the
Toronado. Built on an exclusive slow-moving assembly line, Toronados had few
faults, which was remarkable for such a technically audacious car. Even so, the press
carped about poor rear visibility and lousy gas mileage. But time heals all wounds,
and these days theres no greater collectors car bargain than a 6667 Toronado.

DISTINCTIVE DESIGN PRICING


The Toro was a dream car design. Standard sticker price
Despite sharing a basic body with was $4,585; deluxe
other GM models like the Riviera ENGINE HEAT versions ran to $4,779.
and Eldorado, it still emerged very High engine temperatures and
separate and distinctive. Automobile the huge Rochester 4GC four-
Quarterly called it logical, barrel carb caused many
imaginative, and totally unique, under the hood fires.
and Motor Trade nominated it Car
of the Year in 1966.

FRONT DRIVE
Front-wheel drive was a
novelty in 1967 and was a
break from the past for GM.
Oldsmobile Toronado 385

BLOCK POSITION
The engine over the front
wheels resulted in near-perfect
weight distribution.

STYLING
ENGINE C-pillars swept gently
The torque converter was downward, while the roof
mounted behind the 425cid V8, and the gearbox flowed smoothly into
under the left cylinder bank, with both connected by rakish fastback shape.
chain and sprocket. This arrangement enabled the
engine to be placed directly over the front wheels.
WHEEL ARCHES
Curved body was empowered
by boldly flared wheel arches;
unadorned front and rear
tucked cleanly away.

TIRES
Standard rubber
was 8.85/15.
386 Oldsmobile Toronado

TOP CREDENTIALS
The Toronado was brisk, poised,
and accurate. Understeer and
front-wheel scrabble were kept to
a minimum, and the car handled
like a compact. Acceleration was
in the Jaguar sedan league,
and flat out it could chew
the tail feathers of a
Hi-Po Mustang.

REAR STYLING
Although an enormous
car, the Toronado was
a rakish fastback.

EXHAUSTS
Twin exhausts
provided the outlet for
the 425cids grunt.
SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Oldsmobile Toronado (1967)


PRODUCTION 21,790
BODY STYLE Two-door, five-seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and frame.
ENGINE 425cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 385 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed Turbo
Hydra-Matic automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: torsion bar;
Rear: leaf springs with solid axle.
BRAKES Front and rear drums. INTERIOR
MAXIMUM SPEED 135 mph (217 km/h) Standard equipment included Turbo Hydra-
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.5 sec Matic tranny, power steering and brakes,
A.F.C. 11 mpg (3.9 km/l) Strato-bench front seat, deluxe armrests, rear
cigarette lighters, foam seat cushions, and
interiors in vinyl, leather, or cloth.
Oldsmobile Toronado 387

NOVEL FRONTAL STYLE


The concealed headlights and horizontal bar grille
were genuinely innovative but would disappear in
68 for a heavier and less attractive front-end
treatment. The Toronados design arose in a free-
expression competition organized by Olds in 1962.
It became the companys top model to date, and the
equivalent of the Buick Riviera. The Toronado was
GMs first commitment to front-wheel drive, which
would become a corporate theology by 1980.

POP-UP LIGHTS
Unique retractable
headlights were classic
first-generation Toro.
388 Oldsmobile 4-4-2

O LDSMOBILE 4-4-2
1971 WAS THE LAST OF THE 4-4-2s glory years. A performance package par excellence,
it was GMs longest-lived muscle car, tracing its roots all the way back to the heady
days of 64 when a 4-4-2 combo was made available for the Oldsmobile Cutlass F-85.
Possibly some of the most refined slingshots ever to come from any GM division,
4-4-2s had looks, charisma, and brawn to spare. The 4-4-2 nomenclature stood for a
four-barrel carb, four-speed manual transmission, and two exhausts. Olds cleverly
raided the store room, using hotshot parts previously only available to police
departments. The deal was cheap and the noise on the street shattering. At $3,551,
the superswift Hardtop Coupe came with a 455cid V8, Rallye suspension, Strato
bucket seats, and a top whack of 125 mph (201 km/h). The 4-4-2 package might
have run and run had it not hit the 71 fuel crisis head on. Which proved a shame,
because it was to be a long time before power like this would be seen again.
COLOR CHOICES
PERFORMANCE ORIGINAL In addition to this Viking
From 1964 to 67, the 4-4-2 ENGINE BLOCK Blue, Oldsmobile added
was simply a performance Oldsmobile never tired Bittersweet, Lime Green,
option that could be used on of proclaiming that and Saturn Gold to their
the F-85 line, but its growing their 455cid mill was 1971 color range.
popularity meant that in 1968 the largest V8 ever placed
Olds decided to create a in a production car.
separate series for it in hardtop
and convertible guises.
Oldsmobile 4-4-2 389

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Oldsmobile 4-4-2 (1971)


PRODUCTION 7,589 (1971)
BODY STYLES Two-door coupe
and convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINE 455cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 340350 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional four-speed manual, three-speed
Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
Rear: leaf springs.
BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 125 mph
MUSCLE LEGACY (201 km/h)
Despite legislation that curbed the 4-4-2s power 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.4 sec
output and led to the series being deleted after 71, A.F.C. 1014 mpg (3.55 km/l)
the 4-4-2 had made its mark and put Oldsmobile
well up there on the muscle-car map.

REFLECTORS
Safety reflectors were
evidence of an age where
federal safety regulations
were being introduced.

EXHAUST
Apart from the badge, the
twin drain-pipe exhausts
were the only clue that you
were trailing a wild man.
390 Oldsmobile 4-4-2
POWER RESTRAINT
Unleaded fuel meant a
drop in engine compression
and therefore in speed. INSIDE EXTRAS
The sports console
at $77 and Rallye
pack with clock
and tacho at $84
were extras.

SALES PITCH
Advertising literature espoused the 4-4-2s
torquey credentials: A hot new number. Police
needed it, Olds built it, pursuit proved it. The
4-4-2 was dropped completely from 81 to 84,
but revived in 85, lasting until the final rear-
wheel drive Cutlass was rolled out in 87.

MEDIA PRAISE
Motor Trend said that despite
emission controls the 71 4-4-2 will still
churn up plenty of smoke and fury.

INTERIOR
Despite the cheap-looking, wood-grain
vinyl dash, the 4-4-2s cabin had a real
race-car feel. Bucket seats, custom
steering wheel, and Hurst Competition
gear shift came as standard.
Oldsmobile 4-4-2 391
MORE OPTIONS
1971 Cutlasses were offered in Convertible or
Hardtop Coupe guise. 4-4-2s had bucket
seats, wide-louvered hood, heavy-duty wheels,
and superwide bias-ply glass-belted tires with
white stripes. The hot $369 W-30 option
included forced air induction, heavy-duty
air cleaner, alloy intake manifold, body
striping, sports mirrors, and
special W-car emblems.

ENGINE
Factory blue-printed to save you money, screamed
the ads. The monster 455cid V8 was stock for 4-4-2s
in 71, but it was its swansong year and power output
would soon dwindle. By the late-Seventies,
the 4-4-2 performance pack had
been seriously emasculated.

OLDS FIGURES
In 1971 Olds churned out
558,889 cars, putting them in
sixth place in the sales league.

REDUCED POWER
Sales literature pronounced that 4-4-2
performance is strictly top drawer, but
in reality, unleaded fuel meant a
performance penalty. Sixty could still be
reached in under six seconds, though.
392 Packard Hawk

P ACKARD Hawk
DISTINCTIVE, BIZARRE, AND VERY un-American, the 58 Hawk was a pastiche of
European styling cues. Inspired by the likes of Ferrari and Mercedes, it boasted tan
pleated leather, white-on-black instruments, Jaguaresque fender vents, a turned metal
dashboard, gulping hood air-scoop, and a broad fiberglass shovel-nostril that could
have been lifted off a Maserati. And it was supercharged. But Packards attempt
to distance itself from traditional Detroit iron failed. At $4,000, the Hawk was
overpriced, underrefined, and overdecorated. Packard had merged with Studebaker
back in 1954, and although it was initially a successful alliance, problems with
suppliers and another buyout in 1956 basically sealed the companys
fate.Only 588 Hawks were built, with the very last Packard rolling
off the South Bend, Indiana, line on July 13, 1958. Today the
Hawk stands as a quaint curiosity, a last-ditch attempt to
preserve the Packard pedigree. It remains one of the most
fiercely desired of the final Packards.

REAR ASPECT
Despite its European airs, no American car could
escape the vogue for fins, and this car has two
beauties. Nobody was too sure about the spare
wheel impression on the trunk, though.
Packard Hawk 393

ATTRACTIVE PROFILE
ENGINE Uniquely, the Hawk had exterior vinyl
Flight-O-Matic armrests running along the side
automatic transmission windows and a refreshing lack of
and a hefty, supercharged chrome gaudiness on the flanks. The
289cid V8 came as roof line and halo roof band are
standard. The Hawks aeronautical, and the belt line is tense.
blower was a belt-driven
McCulloch supercharger. SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Packard Hawk (1958)


PRODUCTION 588 (1958)
BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINE 289cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 275 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed Flight-O-
Matic automatic, optional overdrive.
SUSPENSION Front: independent coil
springs; Rear: leaf springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 125 mph
(201 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8 sec
A.F.C. 15 mpg (5.3 km/l)

UNCONVENTIONAL FRONT
Even for the 50s, most buyers found the
Hawks frontal aspect a little too much,
preferring instead the more traditional
Detroit million dollar chromium grin.
The Hawks styling was just plain ugly.
And thats why it didnt sell.
394 Panhard PL17 Tigre

PANHARD PL17 Tigre


PANHARD WAS ONE OF THE worlds oldest names in car manufacturing, dating back
to 1872. But by 1955 they had lost their upmarket image and had to be rescued by
Citron, who eventually bought them out completely in 1965. The Dyna, produced
after World War II in response to a need for a small, practical, and economical
machine, had an aluminum alloy frame, bulkhead, and horizontally opposed, air-
cooled, twin-cylinder engine. In 1954, the Dyna became front-wheel drive, with
a bulbous but streamlined new body. The 848cc flat-twin engine was a gem,
and in post-1961 Tigre guise pushed out 60 bhp; this gave 90 mph (145 km/h),
enough to win a Monte Carlo Rally. Advertised as the car that makes sense,
the PL17 was light, quick, miserly on fuel, and years ahead of its time.

INTERIOR STEERING
The unusual interior had Technically advanced,
bizarre oval-shaped pedals, the steering was GALLIC AERODYNAMICS
column gear change, and an rack-and-pinion, With its aerodynamically shaped
unsuccessful pastiche of with only two turns body, Panhard claimed the lowest
American styling themes. lock-to-lock. drag coefficient of any production
car in 1956. Emphasis was on weight-
CYLINDER HEADS saving, with independent suspension
Heads had hemispherical and an aluminum frame and
combustion chambers bulkhead. Despite its quirky Gallic
and valve-gearing looks, the PL17 was a triumph of
incorporating outstanding efficiency.
torsion bars.

SAFE SHIELD
The PL17 majored on safety and sported a
huge, full-width pop-out windshieldrare for
1961. Inside, the lack of a transmission tunnel
meant a flat floor and increased legroom.
Panhard PL17 Tigre 395

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Panhard PL17 Tigre (196164)


PRODUCTION 130,000 (all models)
BODY STYLE Four-door, four-seater
sports sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Separate chassis
with steel and aluminum body.
ENGINE 848cc twin horizontally-opposed
air-cooled.
POWER OUTPUT 60 bhp at 5800 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Front-wheel drive four-
speed manual.
SUSPENSION Independent front with twin
transverse leaf, torsion bar rear.
BRAKES Four-wheel drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 90 mph (145 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 23.1 sec
ENGINE A.F.C. 38 mpg (13.5 km/l)
The engine design dated back to 1940. Cylinders
were cast integral with their heads in light alloy,
cooling fins and cast-iron liners.

EFFICIENT DESIGN
Simple design meant
fewer moving parts,
more power, and more
miles to the gallon.
396 Peugeot 203

P EUGEOT 203
COMPARED TO THE SCORES OF upright postwar sedans that looked like church pews,
Peugeots 203 was a breath of fresh air. In addition to being one of the French
carmakers most successful products, the 203s monocoque body and revolutionary
engine set it apart. In its day, the 1290cc OHV power plant was state-of-the-art, with
an aluminum cylinder head and hemispherical combustion chambers, said to be the
inspiration for the famous Chrysler Hemi unit. With a line that included two- and
four-door cabriolets, a family wagon, and a two-door coupe, the French really took
to the 203, loving its tough mechanicals, willing progress, and supple ride. By its
demise in 1960, the 203 had broken records for Peugeot, with nearly 700,000 sold.

SHOWSTOPPER
Widely acclaimed at the 1948 Paris Motor
Show, the 203s slippery shape was wind-
tunnel tested in model form and claimed
to have a rather optimistic drag
coefficient of just 0.36lower than
a modern Porsche 911 (see pages
42021). Quality touches
abound, such as the
exterior brightwork
in stainless steel.

FUEL FILLER
This was concealed under
a flush-fitting flap
unheard of in 1948.
Peugeot 203 397

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Peugeot 203 (194860)


PRODUCTION 685,828
BODY STYLES Two-door coupe, two- or
four-door convertible, family wagon.
CONSTRUCTION All-steel monocoque rigid
one-piece body shell.
ENGINE Four-cylinder OHV 1290cc.
POWER OUTPUT 4249 bhp at
3500 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed column change
WINDSHIELD WIPERS with surmultipli overdrive.
Clap hand windshield wipers may look a period piece, SUSPENSION Transverse leaf independent
front, coil spring rear with Panhard rod.
but the motor was so robust that it was still in use 43
BRAKES Drums all around.
years later on the tailgate wiper of the 504 model. MAXIMUM SPEED 73 mph (117 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 20 sec
BUDGET INTERIOR A.F.C. 2035 mpg (712.4 km/l)
Interior was built to a
budget with rubber
mats, metal dash, and
cloth seat facings. SMART DESIGN
The hood swung up on counterbalanced springs, and
the front grille came away by undoing a butterfly nut.
398 Peugeot 203

BADGE
Peugeots lion logo dates
back to 1906, when
Robert Peugeot started
up his own company
called Lion-Peugeot.

INTERIOR
With postwar steel in short supply, aluminum was
used to good effect in the under-dash handbrake
and column gear change. The handsome fastback
body gave plenty of cabin room.

ENDURING BLOCK
The basic design was still
used in the 1980s for
Peugeots 1971cc 505 model.

ENGINE
The 49 bhp OHV push-rod engine was
the 203s most advanced feature. With GEARBOX
wet liners, low compression ratio, and The four-speed
alloy head, it was smooth, free- gearbox was really a
revving, and long-lasting. three with overdrive.
Peugeot 203 399

RACK MOUNTS
Integral mounting
points for a roof
rack were a nice
styling touch.

STYLISH BUTT
These stylish sweeping curves were
influenced by the 1946 Chevrolet. A vast
trunk with a low-loading sill made the
203 ideal family transportation. Another
side to the 203 was racing; many were
tuned and campaigned in rallies like
the Monte Carlo.

PAINTWORK
A high gloss finish was achieved
by the application of several
coats of synthetic lacquer.

FRONT VIEW
The 203 was modified in 1953 with a
curved windshield, revised dashboard,
and front quarter lights. This model was
registered in 1955. The 203s turning circle
was usefully tightonly 14 ft 9 in (5.39 m),
SUSPENSION with three turns lock-to-lock. Despite its
Front suspension was 18 cwt weight and relatively modest power
by transverse leaf output, the handsome Peugeots
independent springing. performance was sprightly.
400 Plymouth Barracuda (1964)

P LYMOUTH Barracuda (1964)


THE BIG THREE WERENT slow to cash in on the Sixties youthboom. Ford couldnt
keep its Mustang project secret and the Chrysler Corporation desperately wanted
a piece of the action. But it had to work fast. It took its existing compact, the
Plymouth Valiant, prettied up the front end, added a dramatic wrap-around rear
window, and called it the Barracuda. It hit the showroom carpets in April 1964,
two weeks before the Mustang. A disarming amalgam of performance, poise, and
refinement, Plymouth had achieved a miracle on the scale of loaves and fishesit
made the Barracuda fast, yet handle crisply and ride smoothly. The 273cid V8 made
the car quicker than a Mustang, but that bizarre rear window dated fiercely and
Mustangs outsold Barracudas 10-to-one. Plymouth believed the long-hood-short-
trunk pony formula wouldnt captivate consumers like a swooping, sporty
fastback. Half a million Mustang buyers told them theyd backed the wrong horse.

HOT INSIDE TRANSMISSION


The greenhouse interior got hot on sunny Optional was Chryslers
days but was well detailed and enormously new Hurst-linkage
practical. Standard fare was bucket seats and manual transmission.
bucket-shaped rear bench seat. Instruments
were matte silver with circular chrome bezels.
The padded dash was a $16.35 extra, as was
a wood-grain steering wheel.

BRAKES
Power brakes were
standard, with big
drums front and rear.
Plymouth Barracuda (1964) 401

REAR WINDOW
Massive window SPECIFICATIONS
earned the Cuda
MODEL Plymouth Barracuda (1964)
top marks for safety.
PRODUCTION 23,443 (1964)
BODY STYLE Two-door fastback.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINES 170cid, 225cid sixes,
273cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 101235 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional four-speed manual, and
three-speed TorqueFlite automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: torsion bar;
Rear: leaf springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums, optional
front discs.
ACRES OF GLASS MAXIMUM SPEED 100110 mph
The fastback glass wrapped down to the rear fender (161177 km/h)
line and was developed by the Pittsburgh Plate Glass 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 813 sec
Company; it was the largest use of glass in any A.F.C. 1622 mpg (5.77.8 km/l)
production car to date. As a result, visibility was epic.

RAG-TOP OPTION
In 67 a convertible was
added with power hood
and real glass window.

DIFFERENTIAL
New Sure-Grip
differential was offered
as an extra to buyers.
402 Plymouth Barracuda (1964)

MUSTANG CONTRAST ADJUSTABLE MIRROR SELLING THE WHEEL


Compared with the Mustang, the Prismatic day-and-night The Cuda brochure insisted
Barracudas front was busy, cluttered, mirror could be adjusted that the optional wood-grain
and lacked symmetry, but it was to deflect annoying steering wheel gave you the
a brave and bold design. Had the headlight glare at night. feel of a racing car.
Mustang not been launched in
the same month, things might
have been very different.
MIRROR
Remote-controlled
outside side mirror
was a $12
convenience option.

MEDIA PRAISE VALIANT LINKS


Road and Track magazine said, The Barracuda was a Plymouth
for sports car performance and Valiant from the roof line down and
practicality, the Barracuda is perfect. shared its power and suspension.
Plymouth Barracuda (1964) 403

FLEXIBLE SEAT
Bucket seat could
be adjusted into
six positions.

COLORS
Interior colors
available were gold,
blue, black, or this
sharp red.

TRUNK SPACE BUMPERS


The rear seats folded forward to Bumper guards were
produce an astronomical cargo an $11.45 option.
area that measured 7 ft (2.14 m)
long. Based on the mass-market,
best-selling Valiant, the Barracuda
was aimed at a completely new
marketrich young things with
a desire to look cool.

THE FORMULA S OPTION


The Cudas base engine was a
170cid slant six. Other mills were
the 225cid six and two-barrel
273cid V8. Despite the fact that
the Formula S offered a V8
block plus race trimmings, this
was still rather tame by
Plymouth standards. The 61
Fury, for example, had a 318cid
unit that pushed out 230 bhp.
404 Plymouth Cuda (1970)

P LYMOUTH Cuda (1970)


THE TOUGH-SOUNDING 70S Cuda was one of the last flowerings of Americas
performance binge. Furiously fast, it was a totally new incarnation of the first
64 Barracuda and unashamedly aimed at psychopathic street-racers. Cynically,
Plymouth even dubbed their belligerent model lineup The Rapid Transit
System. 70 Barracudas came in three stylesthe Cuda was the performance
modeland nine engine choices, topped by the outrageous 426cid Hemi.
Chryslers advertising men bellowed that the Hemi was our angriest body
wrapped around ol King Kong hisself. But rising insurance rates and new
emission standards meant that the muscle car was an endangered species. By
1973 Plymouth brochures showed a Cuda with a young married couple, complete
with a baby in the smiling womans arms. The party was well and truly over.

NEAT DESIGN
The 70 Cudas crisp, taut styling is shared AIR CLEANER
with the Dodge Challenger, and the classic Unsilenced air cleaners such
long-hood-short-trunk design leaves you in as this werent allowed in
no doubt that this is a pony car. Government California because of
legislation and hefty insurance rates ensured drive-by noise regulations.
that this was the penultimate year of the big-
engined Barracudas; after 71, the biggest
block on offer was a 340cid V8.

PINS
Quick-release hood
pins were an option.
Plymouth Cuda (1970) 405

AIR CLEANER SPECIFICATIONS


The air cleaner
vibrated (shaked) MODEL Plymouth Cuda (1970)
through the top of the PRODUCTION 30,267 (1970)
hood, a standard BODY STYLES Two-door, four-seater coupe
and convertible.
Cuda feature.
CONSTRUCTION Steel unitary body.
ENGINES 383cid, 426cid, 440cid V8s.
POWER OUTPUT 335425 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional four-speed manual, and three-speed
TorqueFlite automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: torsion bars;
Rear: leaf springs with live axle.
ENGINE BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
The 440cid six-pack Magnum
MAXIMUM SPEED 137150 mph
engine cranked out 385 bhp and (220241 km/h)
drank through three two-barrel 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.96.9 sec
SALES FIGURES Holley carbs, explaining the six- A.F.C. 1217 mpg (4.26 km/l)
Total 1970 Cuda production pack label. Base engine was a 383cid
was a healthy 30,267 units. V8, which pushed out 335 horses.
PERFORMANCE PARTS
Super Stock springs and
a heavy-duty Dana 60
rear axle were standard
on all 440 Cudas.

STRIPING
Optional inverted
hockey stick graphics
trumpeted engine size.
406 Plymouth Cuda (1970)

OVERHEAD STYLING
Plymouth stylists kept the shape
uncluttered, with tapered-in
bumpers, concealed wipers,
flush door handles, smooth
overhangs, and subtly flared
wheel arches. Even so, the Cuda
had ballooned in proportions
since the first Barracuda models
of the mid-Sixties and, along
with the Mustang (see pages
27885), now started to lose its
raison dtre. With the energy
crisis just around the corner,
its days were numbered.

HIDDEN WIPERS
Windshield wipers
were neatly concealed
behind the rear lip
of the hood.

RACING MIRRORS
Color-coded racing
mirrors could be
ordered for $26.

BIG-BLOCK SPEED
The 440-6 was a $250 Cuda
engine option that allowed the
car to hit the quarter mile in
14.44 seconds. Only 652
1970 Cuda hardtops were
equipped with the $871
Street Hemi V8.

TRANSMISSION
Quick manual upshifts
were possible with the
Slap Stik T-handle.
Plymouth Cuda (1970) 407

INTERIOR
Cuda interiors were flamboyant,
with body-hugging bucket seats,
Hurst pistol-grip shifter, and wood-
grain steering wheel. This model has
the Rally instrument cluster, with
tachometer and oil pressure gauge.
CUDA BADGE
Cuda was a slang name
coined by Woodward
Avenue cruisers.
COLOR CHOICE
Cudas came in 18 strident colors,
with funky names like In Violet,
Lemon Twist, and Vitamin C.

DECLINING FIGURES
Though Cuda hardtop
models cost $3,164 in 1970,
by 74, total Barracuda
sales for the year had
slipped to just over
11,000, and it was axed
before the 75 model year.

TWIN EXHAUSTS
Provocative square
exhausts left no doubt
about the Cudas grunt.
408 Pontiac GTO

P ONTIAC GTO
THE GREAT ONE WAS Pontiacs answer to a youth market with attitude and
disposable cash. Detroit exploited a generations rebellion by creating cars with
machismo to burn. In 1964, John DeLorean, Pontiacs chief engineer, shoehorned
the divisions biggest V8 into the timid little Tempest compact with electrifying
results. He then beefed up the brakes and suspension, threw in three two-barrel carbs,
and garnished the result with a name that belonged to a Ferrari. In 1966 it became
a model in its own right, and Detroits first muscle car had been born. Pundits
believe that the flowing lines of these second-generation GTOs makethem the best-
looking of all. Engines were energetic performers, with a standard 335 bhp 389cid V8
that could be specified in 360 bhp high-output tune. But by 67 GTO sales had tailed
off by 15 percent, depressed by a burgeoning social conscience and federal meddling.
The performance era was about to be legislated into the history books.
ORIGINAL MUSCLE
John DeLoreans idea of placing a high- BIG BLOCK
spec engine in the standard Tempest body Pontiac was the first mainstream
paved the way for a whole new genre and manufacturer to combine big-block
gave Pontiac immediate success in 64. power with a light body. In tests,
Had Ford not chosen to release the a 66 Convertible hit 60 mph
Mustang in the same year, the GTO (96 km/h) in 6.8 seconds.
would have been the star of 64, and even
more sales would have been secured.

WHEELS
Five-spoke Rally
II sport wheels
were a $72 option.
Pontiac GTO 409

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Pontiac GTO Convertible (1966)


PRODUCTION 96,946 (1966, all body styles)
BODY STYLES Two-door, five-seater
hardtop, coupe, and convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Steel unitary body.
ENGINE 389cid V8s.
POWER OUTPUT 335360 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional four-speed manual, and three-speed
Hydra-Matic automatic.
SUSPENSION Front and rear
coil springs.
BRAKES Front and rear drums,
SALES SUCCESS optional discs.
Sales peaked in 1966, with over 95,000 GTOs MAXIMUM SPEED 125 mph
going to power-hungry young drivers whose (201 km/h)
average age was 25. The convertible was the 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.89.5 sec
most aesthetically pleasing of the line. A.F.C. 15 mpg (5.3 km/l)

GTO IMAGE
The GTO had a mischievous LENGTH
image and was described as a It might look long, but the
methodist minister leaving GTO was actually
a massage parlor. 15 in (38 cm) shorter than
Pontiacs largest models.

PERFORMANCE REAR
The GTO came with heavy-duty
shocks and springs as standard,
along with a stabilizer bar.
410 Pontiac GTO

CHOICE EXTRAS SEATS


GTOs could be ordered Reclining front seats
with Rally Cluster gauges, could be specified
close-ratio four-on-the-floor, as an extra.
center console, and walnut
grain dash insert.

INTERIOR
GTOs were equipped to the
same high standard as the Pontiac
Tempest Le Mans. Items included
ashtray lights, cigarette lighter,
carpeting, and a power top
for convertibles. Air-
conditioning and power
steering could be
ordered at $343 and
$95 respectively.

HEADLIGHTS
The stacked headlights
were new for Pontiacs in
65 and were retained
on GTOs until the
end of the decade.

NICKNAME
Muscle-car buffs
dubbed the GTO
The Goat.
Pontiac GTO 411

ENGINE OPTION GTO BADGE


The HO model could Road & Track magazine
do the standing quarter wrote that the theft of the GTO
in 14.2 seconds. name from Ferrari was an act
of unforgivable dishonesty.

ENGINE
The base 335 bhp 389cid block had a
high-output Tri-Power big brother
that pushed out 360 bhp for an extra
$116. The line was expanded in 67 to
include an economy 255 bhp 400cid
V8 and a Ram-Air 400cid mill that
also developed 360 bhp, but at
higher revs per minute.

INDICATORS
Turn signals in grille
were meant to mimic
European-style
driving lights.

66 FACELIFT
First-generation GTOs
were facelifted in 66 with a
more aggressive split grille
and stacked headlight
treatment and gently kicked-
up rear fenders. 1966 GTOs
such as the example here
were Pontiacs most popular,
with sales nudging close
to 100,000 units.
412 Pontiac Trans Am

P ONTIAC Trans Am
IN THE SEVENTIES, FOR THE FIRST TIME in American history, the government
intervened in the auto industry. With the 1973 oil crisis, the Big Three were ordered
to tighten their belts. Automotive design came to a halt, and the big-block Trans Am
became the last of the really fast cars. The muscular Firebird had been around since
1969 and, with its rounded bulges, looked as if its skin had been forced out by the
strength underneath. Gas shortage or not, the public liked the 73 Trans Am, and
sales quadrupled. The 455 Super Duty V8 put out 310 horsepower and, while Pontiac
bravely tried to ignore the killjoy legislation, someone remarked that the High Output
455 was the largest engine ever offered in a pony car. The game was up, and within
months modifications to comply with emission regulations had brought power down
to 290 bhp. The hell-raising 455 soldiered on until 1976, and that athletic fastback
body until 82. But the frenetic muscle years of 196773 had irretrievably passed,
and those wonderful big-block banshees would never be seen again.
ESTABLISHED MUSCLE
Detroits oldest warrior, the Firebird is the only HOOD SCOOP
muscle car thats been in the brochures for 30 The rear-facing shaker hood
years. Based on the Camaros F-body, the Firebird scoop was an indication of the
debuted in 1967, but the wild Trans Am didnt Trans Ams immense power.
appear until 69. Surprisingly, there was little
fanfare until the hot 1970 restyle.
Pontiac Trans Am 413

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Pontiac Firebird Trans Am (1973)


PRODUCTION 4,802 (1973)
BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater
fastback.
CONSTRUCTION Steel unitary body.
ENGINE 455cid V8.
POWER OUTPUT 250310 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual or
three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: coil springs;
Rear: leaf springs with live axle.
BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 135 mph (217 km/h)
DASHBOARD
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.4 sec
Second-edition Trans Ams had a standard engine-turned
A.F.C. 17 mpg (6 km/l)
dash insert, Rally gauges, bucket seats, and a Formula
steering wheel. The tachometer was calibrated to a very
optimistic 8000 rpm. The speedo was just as untruthful,
with a maximum of 160 mph (257 km/h).
WHEEL ARCHES SPOILER
Flared wheel arches For 1973 the
made the Trans Am fastback bodyshell
look even tougher. was given a full-width
rear-deck spoiler.
414 Pontiac Trans Am

DECORATIVE DECAL
The screaming chicken
graphics gracing the hood were
new for 1973. Created by stylist
John Schinella, they were a
modern rendition of the
Native American phoenix
symbol. The Trans Am now
looked as distinctive as it drove.

BODY BY FISHER
Pontiac wanted to portray
that bodies were hand-built
byan old-time carriage-maker.

73 REVIVAL
Steep insurance rates and a national
shift away from performance iron
didnt help Trans Am sales, but
in 1973, the year of the
screaming chicken hood
decal and Super Duty V8,
Trans Ams left showrooms
like heat-seeking missiles.
Nearly killed off by
GM, it soldiered on
into the emasculated
80s and 90s.

FRONT VALANCE
New front valance
panel with small air
dam appeared in 1973.
Pontiac Trans Am 415

ENGINE
The big-block Trans Ams were
Detroits final salute to performance.
The 455 Super Duty could reach 60
(96 km/h) in under six seconds, and
run to 135 mph (217 km/h).

NAME IN DISPUTE
The Trans Am name was borrowed
from the Sports Car Club of
America, and the SCCA threatened
to sue unless Pontiac paid a
royalty of $5 per car. The
Trans Am was a seriously
macho machine, with
Car & Driver magazine
calling it a hard-
muscled, lightning-
reflexed commando
of a car.

EXHAUSTS
Dual exhausts with
chrome extensions
were standard.
416 Porsche 356B

P ORSCHE 356B
VW BEETLE DESIGNER Ferdinand Porsche may have given the world the peoples
car, but it was his son Ferry who, with Karl Rabe, created the 356. These days a
Porsche stands for precision, performance, purity, and perfection, and the 356 is the
first chapter in that story. Well not quite. The 356 was so named because it was the
356th project from the Porsche design office. It was also the first car to bear the
Porsche name. Postwar expediency forced a reliance on Beetle underpinnings, but
the 356 is much more than a Bug in butterflys clothes. Its rear-engined layout and
design descends from the father car, but in the athletic son the genes are mutated
into a true sports machine. A pert, nimble, tail-happy treat, the pretty 356 is the
foundation stone of a proud sports tradition.
INSPIRED ENGINEERING ACCESS COVER CABIN
The first Porsche 356 was a triumph Not a covered jacking point but Seats were wide and flat,
of creative expediency and inspired an access cover to allow you to and the large, almost
engineering, taking basic VW Beetle retrieve the torsion bar. vertical, steering wheel had
elements to create a new breed of a light feel. Passengers got
sports car. Aficionados adore the a grab handle.
earliest cars, often affectionately
dubbed jelly molds.

EXTRA LUGGAGE
With limited luggage accommodation
in the front, the rear rack provided
useful extra luggage space.
Porsche 356B 417

CARRERA OPTION RACE WINNERS


The 62 356 The first Porsche 356s distinguished themselves BRAKES
Carrera 2 model almost immediately with a 1951 Le Mans class win Drum brakes gave
had a 1966cc engine. and a placing of 20th overall. Since then, Porsche has way to all-around
always been associated with performance, boasting discs with the
an enviable track and rally victory tally. 356C in 1963.

GEARING
The patented Porsche baulk-
ring synchromesh gave smooth
gear changes with quick and
positive engagement.

WHEELBASE
The 356s
wheelbase measured
82 in (210 cm).
418 Porsche 356B

SPLIT-SHIELD DECEIT
On convertibles, the rear-
62 BLOCK view mirror was attached to
This is the a slim chrome bar that gave
1582cc engine of a deceptive split-windshield
the 1962 356B. appearance from the front.

ENGINE
The rear-engined layout was determined by reliance on
VW Beetle mechanicals and running gear. The flat-four
engine, with its so-called boxer layout of horizontally
opposed cylinders, is not pure Beetle, but a progressive
development. Engines grew from 1086cc to 1996cc.

REDESIGN
On the 356B, headlights
and bumpers moved
higher up the fender.

INTERIOR
The interior is delightfully
functional, simple, timeless,
and, because of that, enduringly
fashionable. Below the
padded dash are the
classic green-on-
black instruments.
Porsche 356B 419

911 PRECURSOR
The original incarnation of the 356 had lower
wheels and a more bulbous shape. The featured
car here is a 1962 356B Super 90, produced just
two years before the birth of the 911 (see pages
42021) which, although a very different beast,
is still an evolution of the original shape.

REAR VIEW
On the 356B twin exhausts exit on each side
through bumper overriders. The busy air-cooled
thrum is an unmistakeable trademark sound that
was appreciated by thousands of buyers.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Porsche 356B (195963)


PRODUCTION 30,963
BODY STYLES Two-plus-two fixed-head
coupe, convertible, and Speedster.
CONSTRUCTION Unitary steel body with
integral pressed-steel platform chassis.
ENGINE Air-cooled, horizontally opposed
flat-four 1582cc with twin carbs.
POWER OUTPUT 90 bhp at 5500 rpm
(Super 90).
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual,
all synchromesh, rear-wheel drive.
SUSPENSION Front: independent, trailing
arms with transverse torsion bars and anti-
roll bar; Rear: independent, swing half-axles,
radius arms, and transverse torsion bars.
Telescopic shocks.
BRAKES Hydraulic drums all around.
MAXIMUM SPEED 110 mph (77 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 10 sec
A.F.C. 3035 mpg (10.612.5 km/l)
420 Porsche Carrera 911 RS

P ORSCHE Carrera 911 RS


AN INSTANT LEGEND, THE CARRERA RS became the classic 911 and is hailed as
one of the ultimate road cars of all time. With lighter body panels and stripped out
interior trim, the RS is simply a featherweight racer. The classic, flat-six engine was
bored out to 2.7 liters and boasted uprated fuel injection and forged flat-top pistons
modifications that helped to push out a sparkling 210 bhp. Porsche had no
problem selling all the RSs it could make, and a total of 1,580 were built and sold
in just 12 months. Standard 911s were often criticized for tail-happy handling, but
the Carrera RS is a supremely balanced machine. Its race-bred responses offer the last
word in sensory gratification. With one of the best engines ever made, an outstanding
chassis, and 150 mph (243 km/h) top speed, the RS can rub bumpers with the worlds
finest. Collectors and Porsche buffs consider this the preeminent 911, with prices
reflecting its cultlike status. The RS is the original air-cooled screamer.
LIGHTWEIGHT COUPE
The polyester bumpers, thin steel bodywork, WINDSHIELD
and lightweight Glaverbell glass help the Steeply raked windshield
RS to weigh in at just over 1,984 lb (900 kg). helped the 911s
Standard Porsches tip the scales at 2,194 lb wind-evading shape.
(995 kg). In addition, the weight distribution
and rear engine layout demand some very
gentle treatment of the throttle. Handle the
911 roughly and it will understeer.

LIGHTS
Classic slanted
headlights betrayed the
911s VW Beetle origins.
Porsche Carrera 911 RS 421

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Porsche Carrera 911 RS (197273)


PRODUCTION 1,580
BODY STYLE Two door, two seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Thin-gauge steel panels.
ENGINE Flat-six, 2687cc.
POWER OUTPUT 210 bhp at 5100 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Close-ratio, five-speed
manual.
SUSPENSION Front and rear torsion bar.
BRAKES Ventilated discs front and rear,
with aluminum calipers.
MAXIMUM SPEED 150 mph (243 km/h)
REAR-ENGINED 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.6 sec
The bored-out, air-cooled 2.7-liter Boxermotor 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 12.8 sec
produces huge reserves of power. Externally, it is A.F.C. 23 mpg (8.1 km/l)
identifiable only by extra cylinder cooling fins.

WHEEL ARCHES
Rear wheel arches were
flared to accommodate
7-in (18-cm) rims.

REAR SPOILER
The RS had a fiberglass Burzel
rear spoiler, employed to reduce
tail-end lift at high speeds.
422 Range Rover

R ANGE R OVER
DESCRIBING THE RANGE ROVER AS THE BEST CAR in the world is no exaggeration.
The sheer breadth of the capabilities of the third-generation Rangie (as it is
affectionately known) was truly awesome. Developed by BMW in the late 90s,
it set new SUV standards with air suspension, voice-activated satellite navigation,
the heave of a hot hatch, and the mountain-climbing tenacity of Sherpa Tenzing.
The most expensive and popular Range Rover ever, the L322 was a 4x4 that
felt like a Bentley and was the car that helped make
Jaguar Land Rover one of the most admired and THE FRUGAL 4X4
innovative car companies on the planet. 4.4 TDV8 versions could
better 30 mpg (12.7 km/l).

MAGIC CARPET
On-road ride was
serenely smooth.
Range Rover 423

INTERIOR
SPECIFICATIONS
Lush leather, cooled
seats, a heated steering MODEL Range Rover (200212)
wheel, touch-screen TV, PRODUCTION More than 200,000
virtual instruments, and BODY STYLE Five-door SUV.
an eight-speed automatic CONSTRUCTION Monocoque.
gearbox all came as ENGINE 3.05.0-liter, straight-six V8.
standard. The interior POWER OUTPUT 286503 bhp.
on top Autobiography TRANSMISSION Five- to eight-speed
models was as palatial automatic.
as a Rolls Royce. SUSPENSION Independent/air.
BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
MAXIMUM SPEED 130 mph (209 km/h)
BIG SCREEN (supercharged)
Massive heated 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 6.5 sec
(supercharged)
screen had automatic
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 14.2 sec
rain-sensitive wipers. (supercharged)
A.F.C. 1930 mpg (8.012.7 km/l)
STYLING FLOURISH
Decorative side grilles
broke up the huge
slab-sided flanks. A SUPERCHARGED SUV
Supercharged versions gave fierce performance and
the title of The Fastest 4x4 by Far. Jaguar-sourced
alloy V8s were 4.2 liter at first, giving 395 bhp, and
later enlarged to 5.0 liter, pushing out over 500
horsepower. Different grille
and side vents told
everyone you had
a supercharger
up front.

BIG BRAKES
Brakes were Brembo
four-wheel discs.
424 Renault-Alpine A110 Berlinette

R ENAULT - Alpine A110 Berlinette


THE RENAULT-ALPINE A110 may be diminutive in its proportions but it has
a massive and deserved reputation, particularly in its native France. Although
wearing the Renault badge, this pocket rocket is a testimony to the focused
dedication of one manJean Redl, a passionate motor sport enthusiast and
son of a Dieppe Renault agent. As he took over his fathers garage he began to
modify Renault products for competition, then develop his own machines based
on Renault engines and mechanicals. The A110, with its fiberglass body and
backbone chassis, was the culmination of his effort, and from its launch in 1963
it went on to rack up a huge list of victories in the worlds toughest rallies. On
the public roads, it had all the appeal of a thinly disguised racer, as nimble as a
mountain goat, with sparkling performance and just about the most fun you
could have this side of a Lancia Stratos (see pages 33033).

MEAN MACHINE COMPACT SIZE


Squat, nimble, and slightly splay- It is a compact little package just 44.5 in
footed on its wide tires, the (1.16 m) high, 60 in (1.5 m) wide, and
Alpine looks purposeful from 151.5 in (3.85 m) in length.
any angle. Climb into that tight GT4 OPTION
cockpit and you soon feel part of A short-lived 2+2 version
the car; start it up and there is a never had the sporty
delicious barrage of noise. On the attraction of the Berlinette.
move, the sting in the Alpines tail
is exhilarating as it buzzes behind
you like an angry insect.
Renault-Alpine A110 Berlinette 425

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Renault-Alpine A110 Berlinette


(196377)
PRODUCTION 8,203
BODY STYLE Two-seater sports coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Fiberglass body integral
with tubular steel backbone chassis.
ENGINES Various four-cylinders of
956 to 1796cc.
POWER OUTPUT 5166 bhp (956cc)
to 170 bhp (1796cc)
TRANSMISSION Four- and five-speed
manual, rear-wheel drive.
SUSPENSION Coil springs all around.
GO-KART HANDLING Front: upper/lower control arms; Rear:
trailing radius arms & swing-axles.
The steering is light and the grip limpetlike, but when
BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
it does let go that tail wags the dog in a big way. Its
MAXIMUM SPEED 132 mph
singular appearance remained intact through its (212 km/h) (1595cc)
production life, with only detail changes to the trim, 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.7 sec
which these days is rare. (1255cc), 10 sec (1442cc)
A.F.C. 27 mpg (7.6 km/l) (1296cc)

TRUNK AJAR
Competition versions had engine
covers fixed slightly open
to aid cooling.
426 Renault-Alpine A110 Berlinette

LEFTIES
Sadly for British
enthusiasts, the
Alpine A110 was
only available in
left-hand drive.

ENGINE
Myriad engine options mirrored Renaults offerings, but
in Alpine tuneby Gordini or Mignotetit really flew.
First models used Dauphine engines, progressing
through R8 and R16 to R12. This 1967 car sports the
1442cc unit. Engines were slung behind the rear axle,
with drive taken to the gearbox in front of the axle.

RALLY SUCCESSES
Among the many rally successes
for Alpine were two Monte
Carlo victories and the 1973
World Championship.

EXTERNAL CUTOUT
External cutout switches are a
competition requirement, allowing
outsiders to switch off the engine to
prevent fire in an accident. The
Alpines are on the rear fender.
Renault-Alpine A110 Berlinette 427
INSIDE THE CAR
Instrument layout is typical of sports cars
of the period, and the stubby gearshift
is handily placed for ease of operation.
Examples built for road rather than race
use lacked the racing seats but were better
trimmed and were still fun cars to drive.
Getting in and out was not easy though,
because of the low roofline
and high sills.

NAME
Cars were known at first
as Alpine-Renaults, then
became Renault-Alpines
as Renault influence grew.

ASSEMBLY
Even though only
a little over 8,000
A110s were built,
they were assembled
in Spain, Mexico,
Brazil, and Bulgaria,
as well as France.

DEALER OPTION
Alpines were sold
through Renault
dealerswith
Renault warranty
from 1969 onward.
428 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III

R OLLS -R OYCE Silver Cloud III


IN 1965, $20,000 BOUGHT A seven-bedroomed house, 11 Austin Minis, or
a Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud. The Rolls that everybody remembers was the ultimate
conveyance of landed gentry and captains of industry. But, by the early Sixties,
Britains social fabric was shifting. Princess Margaret announced she was to marry
a divorc, and aristocrats were so short of old money that they had to sell their
mansions to celebrities and entrepreneurs. Against such social revolution the Cloud
was a resplendent anachronism. Each took three months to build, weighed two
tons, and had 12 coats of paint. The body sat on a mighty chassis and drum
brakes were preferred because discs made a vulgar squealing noise. Beneath the
hood slumbered straight-six or V8 engines, whose power output was never
declared, but merely described as sufficient. The Silver Cloud stands as a
splendid monument to an old order of breeding and privilege.
MODEL HISTORY
The Cloud I was launched in 1955 and
survived until the end of the decade, when
Rolls exchanged their six for a V8 and made
power steering standard. Cloud IIs ran until
1962, when the car enjoyed its first major
facelifta lowered hood line and
the use of voguish
twin headlamps.

HEAVY CHROME
Rolls claimed their chrome
plating was thicker than on
any other car in the world.
Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III 429

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III


(196265)
PRODUCTION 2,044 Standard Steel
BODY STYLE Five-seater, four-door sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Girder chassis with
pressed-steel body.
ENGINE 6230cc five-bearing V8.
POWER OUTPUT 220 bhp (estimate).
TRANSMISSION Four-speed automatic.
INTERIOR SUSPENSION Independent front with coils
and wishbones, rear leaf springs, and
A haven of peace in a troubled world, the hydraulic dampers.
Silver Clouds magnificent interior was a BRAKES Front and rear drums with
veritable throne room, with only the finest mechanical servo.
walnut, leather, and Wilton carpeting. The gear MAXIMUM SPEED 116 mph (187 km/h)
selector sat behind the steering wheel. 0 60 MPH (096 KM/H) 10.8 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 34.2 sec
ENGINE A.F.C. 12.3 mpg (4.4 km/l)
Cloud IIs and IIIsaimed at the
American markethad a 6230cc
five-bearing V8 power unit, squeezed
into a cramped engine bay.
430 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III

MAX HEADROOM
The roof line was high in the best
limousine traditionpassengers
hadenough room to wear top hats.
The wide rear three-quarter panel
was designed so rear occupants
could be obscured from prying eyes.

TOP SECURITY
Doors were secured
by the highest quality
Yale locks.

TOOLKIT
Every Cloud had
a complete toolkit
in the trunk.

SCRIPT
Roman numerals were
chosen for the Cloud
III script to lend an
air of dignity.
Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III 431

ANTIQUE STYLING
Everything about the Clouds styling
wasantique, looking more like a piece of
architecture than a car. Standard steel
bodies were made by the Pressed Steel
Co. of Oxford, England, with the doors,
hood, and trunk lid hand-finished in
aluminum to save weight.

LEATHER COMFORT
The rear compartment might have
looked accommodating, but Austins
little 1100 actually had more legroom.
Standard walnut picnic tables were ideal
for Champagne and caviar picnics. Rear
leaf springs and hydraulic shock
absorbers kept the ride smooth.

FRONT ASPECT
The 150-watt 5-in (14-cm) Lucas
double headlights were necessitated
by onerous North American safety
requirements. Turn signals were
moved from the fog light to the
front fender on the Cloud III.

ORNAMENT
The Spirit of Ecstasy
graced a silver radiator
shell that took several
men five hours to polish.
432 Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead

R OLLS R OYCE Phantom Drophead


ROLLS ROYCE CONVERTIBLES have always been the choice of high rollers, but when
the first Phantom drop-top was auctioned, it sold for four times its list price. Like
the Corniche convertible before it, this is one of the worlds most expensive and
desirable rag-tops. Despite weighing nearly three tons, it can whisper to 60 mph
(96 km/h) in 5.7 seconds thanks to an all-alloy construction and a 435 bhp V12
engine. In fact the sheer speed and fingertip agility of the Phantom are what make
it totally unique. Handmade in the RR factory in Goodwood, and available in
44,000 different colors, its a gorgeous mix of art deco and techno modern.
Several examples were used in the 2012 London Olympics closing ceremony.
No car is more British than the Phantom and no convertible is more rock n roll.

DETAIL PERFECTION
REAR DECK Cabin is full of leather,
The rear tonneau cover is made from wood and chrome, alloy, wood,
echoes the nautical wood colors used in Italian and crystal.
Riva car launches of the 50s and 60s. The
interior also has acres of timber, available in
hundreds of different colors and finishes.

ALWAYS LEVEL
Center badges on wheels
are self-leveling and
always stay upright.
Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead 433

SPECIFICATIONS
MOVING MASCOT MODEL Rolls Royce Phantom
Spirit of Ecstasy falls Drophead (2007)
and rises automatically PRODUCTION N/A
when the car is locked BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater
or unlocked. convertible.
CONSTRUCTION All-alloy.
ENGINE 6,749cc V12.
POWER OUTPUT 435 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Six-speed automatic.
SUSPENSION Self-leveling air suspension.
BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
ROLLS REINVENTED MAXIMUM SPEED 145 mph (233 km/h)
When BMW bought Rolls Royce, many (limited)
experts believed the brand was beyond 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 5.7 sec
saving. The German firms reinvention of 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 14 sec
RR has made it the most powerful and A.F.C. 15 mpg (6.4 km/l)
desirable it has ever been, attracting a much
more fashionable and younger customer.

SCREEN ART STAINLESS LID


Hand-polished alloy screen Hood is made from
surround takes three days to make. stainless steel with
a matte finish.

UNIQUE BODY
No exterior panels are shared
with Phantom hardtop.
434 Saab 99 Turbo

S AAB 99 Turbo
EVERY DECADE OR SO, one car comes along that overhauls accepted wisdom. In 1978,
the British automotive magazine Autocar wrote, this car was so unpredictably thrilling
that the adrenalin started to courseagain, even in our hardened arteries. They had
just road tested a Saab 99 Turbo. Saab took all other car manufacturers by surprise
when they announced the worlds first turbocharged family car, which promptly went
on to be the first blown car to win a World Championship rally. Developed from
the fuel-injected EMS model, the Turbo had Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, a
strengthened gearbox, and a Garrett turbocharger. A hundred prototypes were built,
and between them they covered 2.9 million miles (4.8 million km) before Saab was
happy with its prodigy. Although it was expensive, there was nothing to equal its
urge. Rare, esoteric, and historically significant, the mold-breaking 99 Turbo is
an undisputed card-carrying classic.
INTERIOR
OFFICIAL PRESENCE Seventies interior looks
The body has a certain a little tacky now,
businesslike presence, with red velour seats
helped by specially made and imitation wood.
Inca alloys designed to
mimic the shape of
turbocharger blades, front
and rear spoilers, and a
sliding steel sunroof.

SUSPENSION
Dead beam-axle at the rear
and the usual wishbone and
coil spring setup at the front.
Saab 99 Turbo 435

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Saab 99 Turbo (197880)


PRODUCTION 10,607
BODY STYLES Two/three/five-door,
four-seater sports sedan.
CONSTRUCTION Monocoque steel
bodyshell.
ENGINE 1985cc four-cylinder turbo.
POWER OUTPUT 145 bhp at 5000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Front-wheel drive
four/five-speed manual with auto option.
SUSPENSION Independent front double
wishbone and coil springs, rear beam axle,
coil springs, and Bilstein shock absorbers.
BRAKES Four-wheel servo discs.
ENGINE MAXIMUM SPEED 122 mph (196 km/h)
The five-bearing, chain-driven single overhead cam 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.2 sec
engine was an 1985cc eight-valve, water-cooled, 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 19.8 sec
four cylinder unit, with low-compression pistons. A.F.C. 26 mpg (9.3 km/l)

TURBOCHARGER HANDLING
The turbo was reliable, but its 99 Turbos were poised.
Achilles heel was a couple of Crisp turn-in came from
seconds lag on hard acceleration. front-wheel drive, with
prodigious adhesion courtesy
of 195/60 Pirelli P6s.
436 Studebaker Avanti

S TUDEBAKER Avanti
THE AVANTI WAS A BIG DEAL for Studebaker and the first all-new body style since
1953. The last car design of the legendary Raymond Loewy, it rode on a shortened
Lark chassis with a stock Studey 289cid V8. The Avantis striking simplicity of shape
was just one of Loewys celebrated confections. From his voguish Coca-Cola
dispenser to the chaste Lucky Strike cigarette pack, Loewys creations were
instant classics, and the brilliant Avanti was a humdinger. Studebakers prodigy
was fairly audacious too, with a fiberglass body, antisway bars, and wind-evading
aerodynamics. Dealers, however, could not meet the huge wave of orders and
this, combined with other niggles like flexing of the fiberglass shell, resulted in
impatient buyers defecting to the Corvette camp instead. Fewer than 4,650 Avantis
were made, and production ceased in December 1963, the Avanti concept being
sold to a couple of Studebaker dealers. They went on to form the Avanti Motor
Corporation, which successfully churned out Avantis well into the Eighties.
EUROPEAN LINES ENGINE
More European than American, the Avanti had a The 289cid was the best Studebaker
long neck, razor-edged front fenders, and no grille. V8 ever made, developing 240 bhp
Early sketches show Loewys inspiration, with tell- in standard R1 tune. Supercharged
tale annotations scribbled on the paper that read R2 and R3 boasted 290 and
like Jaguar, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Mercedes. 335 bhp respectively.
Lead time for the show Avanti was a hair-raising
13 months, with a full-scale clay model
fashioned in only 40 days.

BODY STYLING
The slippery shape was not
wind-tunnel tested, but a
piece of guesswork by Loewy.
Studebaker Avanti 437

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Studebaker Avanti (1963)


PRODUCTION 3,834 (1963)
BODY STYLE Two-door, four-seater coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Fiberglass body,
steel chassis.
ENGINES 289cid, 304cid V8s.
POWER OUTPUT 240575 bhp
(304cid R5 V8 fuel-injected).
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
optional Power-Shift automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: upper and lower
A-arms, coil springs; Rear: leaf springs.
BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 120 mph
FRONT VIEW (193 km/h)
Unmistakable from any angle, early 63 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 7.5 sec
Avantis had round headlights, but most later A.F.C. 17 mpg (6 km/l)
64 models sported square ones.

INTERIOR
Standard equipment
included internal trunk
and hood releases and
vinyl bucket seats.

REAR LIGHTS
The clean, uncluttered
rear included ageless
light treatment.
438 Sunbeam Tiger

S UNBEAM Tiger
THERE WAS NOTHING NEW ABOUT popping an American V8 into a pert English
chassis. After all, that is exactly what Carroll Shelby did with the AC Ace to
create the awesome Cobra (see pages 1619). When Rootes in Britain decided
to do the same with their Sunbeam Alpine, they also commissioned Shelby
to produce a prototype; and although Rootes already had close links
with Chrysler, the American once again opted for a Ford V8.
To cope with the 4.2-liter V8, the Alpines chassis and
suspension were beefed up to create the fearsome
Tiger late in 1964. In 1967, the Tiger II arrived
with an even bigger 4.7-liter Ford V8, but this
was a brief swansong as Chrysler took control
of Rootes and was not going to sanction a
car powered by rivals Ford. Once dubbed
the poor mans Cobra, these days Tiger
prices are only for the rich.

ENGINE
The first Tigers used 4.2-liter Ford V8
engines, replaced lateras shown here
by a 4727cc version, the famous
289, but not in the same state of tune
as those used in the Shelby Cobras.
Sunbeam Tiger 439

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES
The MkII Tiger had an eggcrate
grille to distinguish it from the
Alpine. Earlier cars were less easy
to tell apart: a chrome strip along
the side of the Tiger was the
giveaway, together with discreet
badging on the body.

ADAPTING THE ALPINE


The Alpines chassis and suspension had
to be beefed up to cope with the weight
RACE HOOD and power of the V8. Resulting
Race and rally Tigers had modifications included a heavy-duty
improved air-flow with a back axle, sturdier suspension, and
slightly raised hood. chassis stiffening.
HOT HOUSE
Tigers often suffered
from overheating.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Sunbeam Tiger (196467)


PRODUCTION 6,496 (Mk1, 196467); 571
(MkII)
BODY STYLE Two-plus-two roadster.
CONSTRUCTION Steel monocoque.
ENGINES Ford V8 4261cc or 4727cc
(260 or 289cid).
POWER OUTPUT 164 bhp at 4400 rpm
(4261cc), 200 bhp at 4400 rpm (4727cc).
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Coil springs and wishbones
at front, rigid axle on semi-elliptic leaf
springs at rear.
BRAKES Servo-assisted front discs,
rear drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 117 mph (188 km/h)
(4261cc), 125 mph (201 km/h) (4727cc)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 9 sec (4261cc),
7.5 sec (4727cc)
A.F.C. 20 mpg (7 km/l)
440 Tesla Roadster

T ESLA Roadster
THE TESLA WAS THE WORLDS FIRST sexy electric car. Fast enough to worry a
Porsche 911 Turbo or Ferrari 599, the neck-jerking torque and devastating, silent
acceleration felt uncanny. Brainchild of PayPal founder Elon Musk, it used a Lotus
Elise chassis, stored power in 6,800 laptop batteries, and was the first electric
vehicle (EV) to have a range of more than 200 miles (322 km) on a three-and-a-
half hour charge. With zero tailpipe emissions and a theoretical fuel consumption
of 120 mpg (51 km/l), its green credentials were unimpeachable, but it also gave
the struggling EV market glamour and desirability. Without the ferociously fast
Tesla, electric cars wouldnt have come as far as they have. This sparky little
roadster remains one of the great technological landmark cars of the 21st century.

SMOOTH FEATHERWEIGHT
Slippery aerodynamics and
ENVIABLE RANGE lightweight construction
The biggest barrier to volume make it as fast as a
electric car sales has always been LOTUS BACKBONE Lamborghini Gallardo.
range anxiety, or the fear of The Lotus Elise chassis
running out of battery power. and suspension gives
But in 2010 Tesla cleverly and scalpel-sharp handling.
successfully drove a roadster
round the world, and owners
often achieved over 300 miles
(482 km) to one charge.
Tesla Roadster 441
QUICK POWER
Fast charging system SPECIFICATIONS
is twice as quick as
most other EVs. MODEL Tesla Roadster (2007)
PRODUCTION 2,450
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater.
CONSTRUCTION Steel chassis, carbon-
fiber panels.
ENGINE 185-kw electric motor.
POWER OUTPUT 248 hp.
TRANSMISSION Single-speed Borg Warner.
COOL RIDE SUSPENSION Independent.
Wing ducts help cool BRAKES Four-wheel discs.
batteries and brakes. MAXIMUM SPEED 125 mph (53 km/h)
(limited)
EASY ELECTRICITY 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 3.9 sec
Owners have a home charging unit 0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 12 sec
that simply plugs in, and can also A.F.C. Theoretical 120 mpg (51 km/l)
top up at the office or at a street
charger, if they can find one. ROOFLESS
Removable roof
panel makes a STOPPING POWER
quick convertible. Drilled, ventilated
four-wheel discs are
extremely powerful.
442 Toyota 2000GT

T OYOTA 2000GT
TOYOTAS 2000GT IS MORE than a might have beenits a should have been.
A pretty coupe with performance and equipment to match its good looks, it
predated the rival Datsun 240Z (see pages 19699), which was a worldwide sales
success. The Toyota failed to reach much more than 300 sales partly because
of low capacity, but even more because the car was launched before Japan was
geared to export. That left only a domestic market, largely uneducated in the
finer qualities of sports cars, to make what they could of the
offering. As a design exercise, the 2000GT proved that
the Japanese auto industry had reached the stage where
its products rivaled the best in the world. It is just
a pity not more people were able to appreciate
this fine car first hand.

BEEMER LINKS
The design of the Toyota 2000GT is based on
an earlier prototype penned by Albrecht Goertz,
creator of the BMW 507 (see pages 6467) and
the Datsun 240Z. When Nissan rejected the
design, it was offered to Toyota and evolved
into the 2000GT.

GEAR LEVER
Short-throw wooden-
top gear lever.
INTERIOR
The 2000GTs snug cockpit featured a
walnut-veneer instrument panel, sporty
wheel, stubby gear-lever, form-fitting
seats, and deep footwells. The eight-
track stereo is a nice period touch.
Toyota 2000GT 443
BRAKES
Discs on all
four wheels.

HOOD PROFILE
LIGHTING The panel on the right concealed the
Unusual combination GTs battery; the one on the lefthand
of high-tech pop-up and side of the body was the air cleaner.
fixed headlights gave the This arrangement enabled the hood to
front a cluttered look. be kept low. The engine was a triple-
carb six-cylinder Yamaha, which
provided 150 bhp. A competition
version boosted output to 200 bhp.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Toyota 2000GT (196670)


PRODUCTION 337
BODY STYLE Two-door sports coupe.
CONSTRUCTION Steel body on
backbone frame.
ENGINE Yamaha inline DOHC six, 1988cc.
POWER OUTPUT 150 bhp at 6600 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Five-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Fully independent by coil
springs and wishbones all around.
BRAKES Hydraulically operated discs
all around.
MAXIMUM SPEED 128 mph (206 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 10.5 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 24 sec
A.F.C. 31 mpg (11 km/l)
444 Triumph TR2

T RIUMPH TR2
IF EVER THERE WAS A SPORTS CAR that epitomized the British bulldog spirit it must
be the Triumph TR2. It is as true Brit as a car can be, born in the golden age of
British sports cars, but aimed at the lucrative American market. At the 1952 Earls
Court Motor Show in London, the new Austin-Healey stole the show, but the
Triumph Sports prototypes debut at the same show was less auspicious. It
was a brave attempt to create an inexpensive sports car from a company with no
recent track record in this market sector. With its dumpy derriere, the prototype
was no oil painting; as for handling, chief tester Ken Richardson described it
as a bloody deathtrap. No conventional beauty certainly, but a bluff-fronted
car that was a worthy best-of-breed contender in the budget sports car arena,
and the cornerstone of a stout sports tradition.
UNCONVENTIONAL STYLING TOP
The design, by Walter Belgrove, was a The TR2 had a foldaway RACING HOLES
far cry from the razor-edged Triumph top; the later TR3 had the The TR2 came with
Renown and Mayflower sedans that he option of a lift-off hardtop. small holes drilled in
had previously styled. If not beautiful, the scuttle to attach
the TR2 has chunky good looks with a aero-screens for racing.
bluff, honest demeanor.

WHEEL CHOICE
The first TR2s came with
pressed-steel disc wheels, but
most customers preferred the
option of wire wheels.
Triumph TR2 445

OVERHEAD VIEW
The low-cut doors meant that you could FUEL FILLER
reach out over them and touch the road. At over 30 mpg
External door handles only arrived CHASSIS (10.6 km/l), the
with the TR3A of 1957. The TR2 chassis was TR2s fuel figures
praised for its tautness were impressive.
and fine road manners.
446 Triumph TR2

WINDSHIELD SPORTING SUCCESS


The windshield had a slight TR2s came in first and
curve to prevent it from bowing second in the 1954
at high speed, which is what the RAC Rally.
prototypes flat windshield did.

NEW REAR
A revised rear, all-new chassis, and other
modifications saw Standard-Triumphs new
TR2 become a winner at the Geneva Motor
Show in March 1953. While the prototype
hada stubby tail, the production model
had areal opening trunk.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Triumph TR2 (195355)


PRODUCTION 8,628
BODY STYLE Two-door, two-seater
sports car.
CONSTRUCTION Pressed-steel chassis
with separate steel body.
ENGINE Four-cylinder, overhead valve,
1991cc, twin SU carburetors.
POWER OUTPUT 90 bhp at 4800 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual with
Laycock overdrive option, initially on top
gear only, then on top three (1955).
SUSPENSION Coil-spring and wishbone
at front, live rear axle with semi-elliptic
leaf springs.
BRAKES Lockheed hydraulic drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 105 mph (169 km/h)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 12 sec
A.F.C. 30+ mpg (10.6+ km/l)
Triumph TR2 447

FRONT VIEW AXLE


The unusual recessed grille may present a Like the Austin-Healeys,
slightly grumpy disposition, but the low front the TR chassis ran under
helped the car to a top speed of 105 mph the axle at the rear.
(169 km/h). Fixtures on the TR2 were spartan
you did not even get external door handles.

STOCK DESIGN
There is nothing revolutionary in the design
of the pressed-steel chassis; a simple ladder
with X-shaped bracing. It was a
transformation, though, from the
prototypes original chassis.

INTERIOR
Stubby gear lever and full
instrumentation gave TR a true sports
car feel; the steering wheel was large,
but the low door accommodated
elbows out driving style.
448 Triumph TR6

T RIUMPH TR6
TO MOST TR TRADITIONALISTS this is where the TR tale ended, the final
flourishing of the theme before the TR7 betrayed an outstanding tradition.
In the mid-Sixties, the TR line was on a rolland the TR6 continued the upward
momentum, outselling all earlier models. It was a natural progression from the
original TR2; the body evolved from the TR4/5, the power unit from the TR5.
Crisply styled, with chisel-chin good looks and carrying over the 2.5-liter
six-cylinder engine of the TR5, the TR6 in early fuel-injected form heaved you
along with 152 galloping horses. This was as hairy chested as the TR got, and
a handful too, with some critics carping that, like the big Healeys,its power
outstripped its poise. But that just made it more fun to drive.

KARMANN STYLING TOP OPTION STATESIDE SALES


There is an obvious difference One-piece hardtop was available Some 78,000 TR6s
between the TR4/5 and the later as an option, and more went to the US even
TR6, restyled by Karmann; practical than the two-piece though emission
sharper,cleaner lines not only job seen on earlier models. regulations
looked more modern, but also gave emasculated it.
more luggage space. The chopped
off tail was an aerodynamic aid.

FAT WHEELS
Wider wheels were a
TR6 feature, as was the
antiroll bar at the front.
Triumph TR6 449

ROOMY COCKPIT
SMOOTH TR6 The cockpit was more spacious than POWER DROP
Virtually all bulges, like the earlier TRs, providing excellent driving Revised injection metering
TR5s hood power bulge position from comfortable seats. Big, and reprofiled camshaft
and cowled headlights, wide-opening doors gave easy access reduced power from
have been ironed out. to the TR6, a long cry from the tiny 1973; US carburetor
doors of the TR2 and 3. versions were more
sluggish and thirstier.
450 Triumph TR6

BEST SELLER
The TR6s good looks, and a long production run,
made this model the biggest selling of all TR
models. British sales stopped in February 1975, but
continued in the US until July 1976. The US model
may have been slower than the UK model by
12 mph (19 km/h), but 10 times
as many TR6s
were exported
as remained
in Britain.

ENGINE
The first engines, as on this 1972 car, produced
152bhp, but public pressure for something more well
mannered resulted in a 125 bhp version in 1973.
Americans had to make do with just over 100 bhp
andno fuel injection.

STEERING WHEEL
Steering wheel size was
reduced at the time of other
mid-model changes in 1973.

INTERIOR
The interior is still traditional but more
refined than earlier TRs. Yet with its big
dials, wooden dash, and short-throw gear
knob, its character is still truly sporty.
Triumph TR6 451

MERGER
The TR6 was launched just after
the 1968 merger of Leyland and
BMC, which produced Triumph
motors. Hence the badge on the
side of the TR6s bodywork.

ENGINE NOISE
Deep-throated
burble is still a
TR6 come-on.

LONG-TAILED
The TR6s squared-off tail was longer
than earlier TRs. Even so, there was only
space in the trunk for a set of golf clubs
and an overnight bag.

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Triumph TR6 (196976)


PRODUCTION 94,619
BODY STYLE Two-seat convertible.
CONSTRUCTION Ladder-type chassis with
integral steel body.
ENGINE Inline six-cylinder, 2498cc, fuel-
injection (carburetors in US).
POWER OUTPUT 152 bhp at 5500 rpm
(19691973), 125 bhp at 5250 rpm
(19731975), 104 bhp at 4500 rpm (US).
TRANSMISSION Manual four-speed with
optional overdrive on third and top.
SUSPENSION Independent by coil springs
all around; wishbones at front, swing-axles
& semi-trailing arms at rear.
BRAKES Front: discs; Rear: drums.
MAXIMUM SPEED 119 mph (191 km/h,
150 bhp), 107 mph (172 km/h, US)
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.2 sec (150 bhp);
9.0 sec (125 bhp); 10.6 sec (104 bhp)
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 29 sec
A.F.C. 25 mpg (8.8 km/l)
452 Tucker Torpedo

T UCKER Torpedo
THERES NO OTHER POSTWAR CAR thats as dramatic or advanced as Preston Tuckers
futuristic 48 Torpedo. With four-wheel independent suspension, rear-mounted
Bell helicopter engine, pop-out safety windshield, and uncrushable passenger
compartment, it was 20 years ahead of its time. Youll step into a new automotive
age when you drive your Tucker 48, bragged the ads. It was a promise that
convinced an astonishing 300,000 people to place orders, but their dreams were
never to be realized. Problems with the engine and Tuckermatic transmission,
plus a serious cash-flow crisis, meant that only 51 Torpedos left the Chicago
plant. Worse still, Tucker and five of his associates were indicted for fraud by
the Securities Exchange Commission. Their acquittal came too late to save
Americas most eccentric car from an undignified end.
LOW PROFILE CUSHIONING
One of the fastest cars on American Front and rear seat cushions
roads, the Tucker had a low floor that could be interchanged to
gave it a huge aerodynamic advantage. spread wear and tear.
The roof tapered in two directions to
reduce lift forces, and the drag coefficient
was as low as 0.30. The Torpedos top
speed was 120 mph (193 km/h), and
an astonishing 30 mpg (10.6 km/l)
was possible.

CAREFUL POSITIONING
Novel engine was
positioned lower than the rear
passenger seat to diminish
noise, heat, and fumes.
Tucker Torpedo 453

ENGINE
The first of the Tucker SPECIFICATIONS
engines was a monster
589cid aluminum flat- MODEL Tucker Torpedo (1948)
six that proved difficult PRODUCTION 51 (total)
to start and ran too BODY STYLE Four-door sedan.
hot. It was replaced CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
by a 6ALV 335cid ENGINE 335cid flat-six.
POWER OUTPUT 166 bhp.
flat-six block,
TRANSMISSION Three-speed Tuckermatic
developed by Air-Cooled automatic, four-speed manual.
Motors of Syracuse. Perversely, SUSPENSION Four-wheel independent.
Tucker later converted this unit to BRAKES Front and rear drums.
a water-cooled system. MAXIMUM SPEED 120 mph
(193 km/h)
INTERIOR DESIGN 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 10.1 sec
Interior was designed by Audrey A.F.C. 30 mpg (10.6 km/l)
Moore, who had worked with
Raymond Loewy on Studebakers.

LUGGAGE SPACE
With no engine
upfront, luggage space NOSE DESIGN
was roomy. Slippery front
was designed to
cleave the air.
454 Tucker Torpedo

AN INSTANT HIT
The public loved the Tucker not only
for its comfort, power, and safety, but
also because the styling was completely
free from the usual prewar clichs. The
prototype was ready in 60 days
andmore than 5,000 people
attended the launch.

VENTS
Vents were to reduce
the considerable
heat generated by
theengine.

WIDE TRACK
The Torpedo was so different from
anything else on four wheels that it was
a complete sensation. It had the widest
track of any car and had all-around
independent suspension
sprung by rubber-in-
torsion units similar
to those of
Issigoniss Mini
(see pages 4447).
REAR LIGHT
Rear light, like much
of the Tucker, was
bought in, and was a
prewar Dodge design.

ENGINE
Engine was placed
crosswise on the
overhang between
the two
independently
sprung rear wheels.
Tucker Torpedo 455

CYCLOPS LIGHT TUCKER BADGE


Daring cyclops The horn on the
headlight swiveled steering wheel lay
with the front wheels. flush for safety and
was adorned with the
Tucker family crest.

INTERIOR
Some say that Detroit conspired to destroy
Tucker, but steering wheels on Torpedos
were from the Lincoln Zephyr, given freely
by Ford as a gesture of assistance.
Although the interior was groaning with
safety features, the Tucker sales team
figured it was too austere.

BUMPER
Steerhorn bumper gave
the car a dramatic
frontal aspect.

UNIQUE AND EXCITING


The front was like no other
American car, with a fixed
circular headlight lens
thatpivoted with the
steering and a front panel
that blended artfully
intothe bumper and
grille.Designed by
formerAuburn-Cord-
Duesenberg stylist Alex
Tremulis, the Tucker was
solow that it only came
up to a mans shoulder.
456 Volkswagen Beetle Karmann

V OLKSWAGEN Beetle Karmann


BEETLE PURISTS MAY WAX lyrical about the first-of-breed purity of the original split-
rear-window Bugs and the oval window versions of 1953 to 1957, but there is one
Beetle that everybody wantsthe Karmann-built Cabriolet. Its development followed
that of the sedans through a bewildering series of modifications, but it always stood
apart. With its top retracted into a bulging bustle, this Beetle was not only cheerful,
but chic too, a classless cruiser at home equally on Beverly Hills boulevards, Cannes,
and Main Street. The final incarnation of the Karmann convertible represents the
ultimate development of the Beetle theme, with the peppiest engine and improved
handling. Its strange to think that the disarming, unburstable Bug was once branded
with the slogan of the Hitler Youth, Strength through Joy. Today, modern retro
Beetles have become suburban middle-class trinkets.

ROADSTER PLANS
Before Karmann chopped the lid SURFMOBILE
off the Bug, there had been plans Cabriolets like this
for a Beetle-based roadster. The California-registered
prototypes inspired coachbuilders car are a mainstay of
Joseph Hebmller & Sons to build surfing culture.
a short-lived roadster, but just 696
were built before a factory
fire scuppered
the project.

BRAKES
Front discs were
introduced in 1966.
Volkswagen Beetle Karmann 457

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL VW Beetle Karmann Cabriolet


(19721980)
PRODUCTION 331,847 (Karmann
Cabriolets from 1949 to 1980).
BODY STYLE Four-seater cabriolet.
CONSTRUCTION Steel-bodied, separate
chassis/body.
ENGINE Rear-mounted, air-cooled
flat-four, 1584cc.
POWER OUTPUT 50 bhp at 4000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual.
SUSPENSION Front: independent
INTERIOR MacPherson strut; Rear: independent
The Beetle is still bare, its dash dominated by the trailing arm and twin torsion bars.
one minimal instrument; on this model the speedo BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
incorporates a fuel gauge. It also has a padded dash, MAXIMUM SPEED 82.4 mph (133 km/h)
replacing the original metal unit. 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 18 sec
A.F.C. 2430 mpg (8.510.6 km/l)

UNIT GROWTH
The Beetles capacity grew
from 1131cc to 1584cc;
the engines have a
deserved reputation as
robust, rev-happy units.
458 Volkswagen Beetle Karmann

KARMANN COACHBUILDER
In addition to the Beetle convertible,
Karmann also built the Type 1
VWKarmann-Ghia, a
two-seater based on
Beetle running gear.

REAR LIGHTS
Many later design
changes like these
elephant footprint
rear light clusters
were driven by US
regulations.

FRESH AIR
With the top raised, the Karmann
cabriolet is a bit claustrophobic, but it
comes into its own as a timeless
top-down cruiser that is still a full
four-seater. Rear vision with the
topup is not much better than
onearly split-windowed and oval-
windowed models.

ONE-MODEL POLICY
The one-model policy that VW
adopted in its early years was successful
ENGINE while Beetle sales soared, but by 1967
You can always tell that a Beetle is on its Fiat had overtaken VW as Europes
way before it comes into sight thanks to biggest car manufacturer. It was not
the distinctive buzzing of the air-cooled, until 1974 that the Golf and Polo
horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine. revived the companys fortunes.
Volkswagen Beetle Karmann 459

WINDSHIELD
Curved panoramic
windshield replaced the
flat window in 1972.

INDICATORS
First cars had
semaphores; then
indicators were
fender-mounted.
460 Volkswagen Golf GTi

V OLKSWAGEN Golf GTi


EVERY DECADE OR SO A really great car comes along. In the Seventies it was the Golf.
Like the Beetle before it, the Golf was designed to make inroads into world markets;
yet while the Beetle evolved into the perfect consumer product, the Golf was planned
that way. The idea of a hot Golf was not part of the grand plan. It was the
brainchild of a group of enthusiastic Volkswagen engineers who worked evenings and
weekends, impressing VWs board so much that the GTi became an official project in
May 1975. Despite its youth, the GTi is as much of a classic as any Ferrari. Its claim
to fame is that it spawned a traffic jam of imitators and brought an affordable cocktail
of performance, handling, and reliability to the mass-market buyer. Few other cars
have penetrated the suburban psyche as deeply as the original Golf GTi, and fewer
still have had greatness thrust upon them at such an early age.

GTI ENHANCEMENTS
GTi suspension was lower and
firmer than the standard Golf, with
wider tires and wheels. Front disc
brakes were ventilated, but
keepingstandard drums at
therear was a mistake
early Golfs were very
disinclined to stop.

HATCHBACK
The Mk I Golf
was the first of
theSeventies
hatchbacks.

ALLOYS
Much admired cross-spoke
BBS alloy wheels were
both a factory-equipped
and aftermarket option.
Volkswagen Golf GTi 461

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Volkswagen Golf GTi Mk 1


(197683)
PRODUCTION 400,000
BODY STYLE Three-door five-seater
hatchback.
CONSTRUCTION All steel/monocoque
body.
ENGINES Four-cylinder 1588cc/1781cc.
POWER OUTPUT 110112 bhp
at 6100 rpm.
TRANSMISSION Four- or five-speed
manual.
SIMPLE FRONT SUSPENSION Front: independent;
Rear: semi-independent trailing arm.
Factory spec Golfs were understated,
BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
with just a GTi badge and a thin red
MAXIMUM SPEED 111 mph (179 km/h)
stripe around the grille.
060 MPH (096 KM/H) 8.7 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 18.2 sec
A.F.C. 29 mpg (10.3 km/l)

ENGINE
Capable of 150,000 miles
(240,000 km) in its stride, the 1588cc
four-cylinder power unit breathed
throughBosch K-Jetronic fuel injection.
462 Volvo P1800

V OLVO P1800
THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A VOLVO like the P1800, for this was a one-time flight of
fancy by the sober Swedes, who already had a reputation for building sensible sedans.
As a sports car the P1800 certainly looked stunning, every sensuous curve and lean
line suggesting athletic prowess. But under that sharp exterior was most of the
engineering of the Volvo Amazon, a worthy workhorse sedan. Consequently, the
P1800 was no road-burner; it just about had the edge on the MGB (see pages 37273),
but only in a straight line. Another competitor, the E-Type Jag (see pages 30609),
was launched in 1961, the same year as the P1800 and at almost the same price,
but there the comparison ends. The P1800 did have style, though, and its other
virtues were pure Volvostrength, durability, and reliability. These combined
to create something quite singular in automotive idioma practical sports car.

DESIGN CREDITS JENSENS SIGNATURE


Official Volvo history credits the award- Early cars like this were
winning design of the P1800 to Frua of built in Britain by Jensen.
Italy, but it was actually penned by young
Swede Pelle Petterson, then a trainee at
Ghia. The Italian influences are obvious
in the final form.

LUGGAGE SPACE
As you would expect, the
sensible sports car had a
decent-sized trunk.
Volvo P1800 463

SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL Volvo P1800 (196173)


PRODUCTION 47,707 (all models)
BODY STYLES Two-plus-two fixed-head
coupe; sports wagon (P1800ES).
CONSTRUCTION Unitary steel
body/chassis.
ENGINES 1778cc straight-four, overhead
valves; 1985cc from 196873.
POWER OUTPUT 100 bhp at 5500 rpm
(P1800); 124 bhp at 6000 rpm (P1800E,
P1800 ES).
TRANSMISSION Four-speed manual with
overdrive/optional automatic.
SUSPENSION Front: independent coil-
ENGINE sprung with wishbones; Rear: rigid axle,
coil-sprung, Panhard rod.
Early cars had 1778cc four-cylinder units BRAKES Front discs, rear drums.
with twin SU carbs; the 1985cc unit came MAXIMUM SPEED 115 mph (185 km/h)
later, followed by electronic fuel injection. (P1800 E/ES)
All versions are reliable, willing revvers. 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 9.713.2 sec
0100 MPH (0161 KM/H) 31.453 sec
A.F.C. 2025 mpg (710 km/l)
SAFETY MEASURES
The P1800 had a padded dash and
seat belts of Volvos own design.
GEARING
Super-tough gearbox had
excellent synchromesh.

WHEELS
Stylized fake
spokes identify this
as an early P1800.
464 Willys Jeep MB

W ILLYS Jeep MB
AS ONE WAR CORRESPONDENT SAID, Its as faithful as a dog, as strong as a mule,
and as agile as a mountain goat. The flat-fendered Willys Jeep is one of the most
instantly recognizable vehicles ever made. Any American TV or movie action hero
who wasnt on a horse was in a Jeep. Even General Eisenhower was impressed, saying
the three tools that won us the war in Europe were the Dakota, the landing craft,
and the Jeep. In 1940, the Defense Department sent out a tough spec for a military
workhorse. Many companies took one look at the seemingly impossible specification
and 49-day deadline and turned it down flat. The design that won the bid and made
it into production and the history books was a mixture of the ideas and abilities
of Ford, Bantam, and Willys-Overland. A stunning triumph of function over form,
the Jeep not only won the war, but went on to become a cult off-roader thats still
with us now. The Willys Jeep is surely the most original 4x4 by far.
TRICKY DRIVE
POWER SAFETY STRAPS High clutch, narrow footwell, and
The hardy Doors would have added weight, unmovable seat forced a knees-
L-head motor so side straps were a token splayed driving position.
developed 60 bhp. gesture toward driver safety.

CHASSIS
Box-section chassis was tough, yet
flexible enough to allow the frame to
twist for maximum wheel articulation.
Willys Jeep MB 465

SUSPENSION EXPOSED COLUMN THIRSTY


Leaf springs and Driver safety wasnt a Jeep strong The Jeep may have
hydraulic shocks gave a point. Many GIs ended up had competence, but it
surprisingly good ride. impaled on the steering column also had a prodigious
even after low-speed impacts. thirst for fuel.

LIFESPAN
SPECIFICATIONS
The Jeep was a brilliantly
simple solution to the MODEL Willys Jeep MB (1943)
problem of mobility at war, PRODUCTION 586,000 (during
but the life expectancy of an World War II)
average vehicle was expected BODY STYLE Open utility vehicle.
to be less than a week! CONSTRUCTION Steel body and chassis.
ENGINE 134cid straight-four.
POWER OUTPUT 60 bhp.
TRANSMISSION Three-speed manual,
JEEP NAME four-wheel drive.
Jeeps were first called General Purpose SUSPENSION Leaf springs front and rear.
cars, then MA, and finally MB, but BRAKES Front and rear drums.
nobodys sure of the origins of the MAXIMUM SPEED 65 mph (105 km/h)
Jeep name. Some say it is a corruption 060 MPH (096 KM/H) 22 sec
of GP, or General Purpose, others that A.F.C. 16 mpg (5.7 km/l)
it was named after Eugene the Jeep, a
character in a 1936 Popeye cartoon.
466 Willys Jeep MB

RAD CHANGES
Earlier Jeeps had a slatted radiator
grille instead of the later pressed-
steel bars, as here. The silhouette
was low, but ground clearance high
to allow driving in streams as deep
as 21 in (53 cm). Weather
protection was vestigial.

CLUTCH
Quick-release clutch
disengaged engine fan
ENGINE for fording streams
Power was from a Ford straight-four, and rivers.
which took the Jeep to around 65 mph
(105 km/h), actually exceeding US Army
driving regulations.

GEARBOX
The Warner three-
speed manual box
was supplemented by
controls allowing the
driver to select two-
or four-wheel drive in
high or low ratios.

FRONT VIEW
The Jeeps hood was secured using quick-
release sprung latches. The upper latch held
the fold-down windshield. Those stark fenders
and large all-terrain tires may look humble and
functional, but the Jeeps claim to fame is that
it spawned utility vehicles from Nissans and
Isuzus to Discoverys and Range Rovers.
Willys Jeep MB 467

WIPERS
Hand-operated
windshield wipers.

GEAR LEVER
First production
Jeep model, the
MA, had a
column change.

SPARTAN INTERIOR
EXTRAS Only the generals fought the war in
Jeeps came with gas comfort, and Jeep accommodation
can, shovel, and was strictly no frills. Very early Jeeps
long-handled ax. have no glove compartment.

HEADLIGHT
The dual-purpose headlight
could be rotated back to
illuminate the engine bay,
which was very useful during
night-time maneuvers.

JOINT EFFORT
Willys and Ford Jeeps saw service in every theater
of war, and the two versions were almost identical.
By August 1945, when wartime production of the
Jeep ended, the two companies together had
manufactured over 600,000 Jeeps. The US Army
continued using Jeeps well into the Sixties.
468 Index

I NDEX Aston Martin


DB4 3235
Bel Air (1957),
Chevrolet 11821
507 6467
M1 7275
DBS V8 3639 Nomad 12223 boat-tail, Buick

A and James Bond 32,


34, 38
Belgrove, Walter 444
Bendix
9497
Bolster, John 16
Abarth, Carlo 255 V8 3639 brakes see brakes, Bond, James, and
AC Vantage 36 Bendix Aston Martin
427 23 Volante Convertible Bentley 32, 34, 38
428 2023 36 Continental hood scoop 53
Ace-Bristol 1215 Audi Quattro Sport Supersports 6263 Borg-Warner
Cobra 427 1619 4043 Flying Spur 6061 transmission see
Cobra GTM 777F Aurelia B24 Spider, R-Type Continental transmission
16 Lancia 32629 5659 Borrani wheels 229
Tojeiro 12 Ausco-Lambert disc Standard Steel 60, 61 Boulanger, Pierre
air-conditioning, brakes 154 Berlinetta, 174,176
Polar-Aire 269 Austin, Ferrari 232 Boxer, Ferrari
Air-Poise Mini Cooper 4447 Boxer 23841 Berlinetta 23841
suspension 88 Austin-Healey Berlinette, Renault- boxer layout engine
Alfa Romeo 3000 5255 Alpine A110 42427 see engines
1300 Junior Spider Sprite Mk1 4851 Bermuda, Edsel Boyer, Bill and
2427 Avanti, Studebaker 21619 Ford Thunderbird
Duetto 2427 43637 Bertone design 262, 274
Montreal 25 Citron DS21 Bracq, Paul
Alfin drum brakes 64
Alpina wheels 69 B 178, 180
Lancia Stratos 330,
BMW M1 72
Mercedes 280SL
Alpine (Renault-) Back to the Future and 333 361
A110 Berlinette, DeLorean 200, 202 Big Bird see brakes
42427 Bardot, Brigitte and Thunderbird, Ford Alfin drum 64
Alpine Rally 45 Citron DS21 178 Big Healey 5255 antiskid,
AMC Barracuda (1964), Blue Flame Six block Max Trac 96
Gremlin 28 Plymouth 40003 engine see engines Ausco-Lambert
Pacer 2831 Barthes, Roland 181 BMC, Austin Mini disc 154
Andrade, Julio 101 Batmobile 6871 Cooper 4447 Bendix
appeal of classic cars Beetle Karmann, BMW Panhard PL17,
1011 Volkswagen 45659 3.0CSL 6871 Tigre 395
Index 469

Girling 21
Hydro-Boost power C Weber
Aston Martin V8
Camaro RS
Convertible 13841
112 C-Type, Jaguar 30003 38 Camaro SS396
Lockheed Cadillac Ferrari 250 GT 15053
Austin Mini Calais 113 SWB 229 Corvair Monza
Cooper 46, 47 Convertible 10609 Ferrari 308 GTB 13437
Jaguar C-Type 301 DeVille 113 242 Corvette (1954)
MG TC Midget Eldorado (1976) Ferrari Dino 242 11417
369 11013 GT 235 Corvette Sting Ray
Max Trac antiskid Eldorado Zenith twin 66 (1966) 13033
96 Convertible Carrera 911 RS, Corvette Stingray
transistorized rear (1953) 10205 Porsche 42021 (1969) 14245
110 Series 62 98101 Carrozzeria Touring Hot One 11821
Bristol 100D2 Camaro, Chevrolet design 34 Impala 12629
engine 12, 13 RS Convertible Carter carburetor see Monte Carlo 14647
Brock, Pete 16 13841 carburetors, Carter Nova SS 14849
Brown, David 32 SS396 15053 Cat see Jaguar Panther 13841
Brown, Roy 222 Campagnolo wheels catalytic convertor plastic fantastic
Brownlie, Bill 212 73 and Cadillac Eldorado 13033
Bug (Volkswagen) Camus, Albert and 113 Chrysler
45659 Facel Vega II 224 Chapman, Colin 300F (1960) 16265
Bugatti Veyron Grand Captive-Aire tires 160 DeLorean DMC 12 300L (1965) 16669
Sport 7677 carburetors 200 DeSoto Custom
Buick Carter Lotus Elan Sprint 20407
Limited Riviera Chrysler Imperial 344 Imperial 15457
(1958) 8689 156 Lotus Elite 340 Letter Car 166
Riviera (1964) 9093 Holley Chapron, Henri 178 New Yorker
Riviera (1971) 9497 Chevrolet Corvette Charger R/T, Dodge 15861
Roadmaster (1949) Sting Ray 132 21215 Citron
7881 Rochester 120 Chevrolet 2CV 17477
Roadmaster (1957) Rochester 4GC 384 3100 Stepside 12425 Deux Chevaux
8285 Solex triple 13 Bel Air (1957) 17477
Bullitt and Dodge Stromberg 290 11821 DS21 Decapotable
Charger R/T 215 SU HD8 58 Bel Air Nomad 17881
buyers market 89 Triple SU 35 (1957) 12223 Shark 17881
470 Index

SM 18285 Corvair Monza, Lamborghini 318, Torsen 43


Traction Avant Chevrolet 13437 322 Twin-Grip 29
17073 Corvette (1954), Darrin Dino 246 GT, Ferrari
clap hand windshield Chevrolet 11417 Howard 312, 313 23437
wipers Corvette Sting Ray Kaiser 31215 DMC 12, DeLorean
Mercedes 361 (1966) 13033 Dart, Daimler 19093 20003
Peugeot 203 397 Corvette Stingray Datsun Dodge
cliff-hanger nose 38 (1969) 14245 240Z 19699 Charger R/T
Cloud III, Rolls- Countach 5000S, Fairlady 1600 19495 21215
Royce 42831 Lamborghini 32225 Fairlady Z 199 DS21 Decapotable,
Club Victoria, Ford Cruise-O-Matic Davenport, John 46 Citron 17881
Galaxie 500XL 272 transmission see Day-Lewis, C. and Duetto, Alfa Romeo
Cobra 427, AC 1619 transmission, Citron DS21 178 24, 27
Cole, Ed Cruise-O-Matic Daytona, Ferrari 233 Dukes of Hazzard, The
OHV V8 engine 99 Cuda DB4, Aston Martin and Dodge Charger
Super Turbo-Fire V8 1964, Plymouth 3235 R/T 215
engine 118 40003 De Dion suspension Dunlop
Comfort-Tilt steering 1970, Plymouth 39, 287, 329 48-spoke center-lock
wheel see steering 40407 De Tomaso Pantera wheels 341
wheels, Comfort-Tilt Curtis, Tony GT5 208 SP tires 311
compass, MoPar 154 Facel Vega II 224 DeLorean Dyna, Panhard 394
Continental Ferrari Dino 246 GT DMC 12 20003 Dynaflow
Bentley R-Type 5659 234 John 200, 203 transmission see
Bentley Supersports Cutlass, Oldsmobile Pontiac GTO 408 transmission
6263 388, 390, 391 DeSoto Custom
Lincoln (1964)
33639
cyclops headlight 455 20407
Deux Chevaux, E
Mark II 18689
Convertible, Cadillac D Citron 17477
DeVille, Cadillac 113
E-Type, Jaguar 30609
Earl, Harley
10609 dagmars 104 differential Cadillac Eldorado
Cooper, John 44 Daimler SP250 Dart limited slip 21, 75 102
Corsair 19093 Sure-Grip Cadillac Series
Edsel 22023 Dallara, Giampaolo Chrysler 300F 163 98, 99, 101
Kaiser Henry J. De Tomaso Pantera Plymouth Chevrolet Bel Air
31617 211 Barracuda 401 Nomad 123
Index 471

Edsel
Bermuda 21619
Giro-Poise roll
control 93 F Fisher bodywork 414
Flight-O-Matic
Corsair 22023 Gran Sport V8 94 Facel transmission 393
Eisenhower, Dwight Lincoln V8 188 Vega HK 500 22426 Flight-Pitch Dynaflow
and Cadillac McCulloch 393 Vega II 22427 transmission 89
Eldorado 102 Marek design 34, 35 Fairlady, Datsun Floating Power engine
Elan Sprint, Lotus Maserati V6 1600 19495 172
34445 182, 185 Z 199 Flying Spur, Bentley
Eldorado, Cadillac Police Interceptor Fairlane 500 Skyliner, 6061
1953 Covertible 285 Ford 26669 Fontaine, Joan and
102105 Sting Ray 287 Ferrari Facel Vega II 224
1976 11013 Street Hemi V8 250 GT SWB Ford
Elite, Lotus 34043 406 22831 Big Bird see Ford,
engines Super Duty 415 275 GTB/4 232 Thunderbird
aluminum V8 65 Super Turbo-Fire V8 308 GTB 242 Edsel Bermuda
big bore 58 118, 120 365 GT4 Berlinetta 21619
Blue Flame Six block Tadek Marek 34 Boxer 23841 Edsel Corsair
Chevrolet Corvette Thriftmaster six 125 365 GTB/4 233 22023
117 Trademaster V8 125 400 GT 243 Fairlane 500 Skyliner
Chevrolet Impala Triumph TR3A 377 456 GT 24849 26669
129 Wankel rotary 353 458 Italia 25253 Galaxie 500 XL
boxer layout Wildcat V8 92 Daytona 233 Club Victoria
Porsche 356B 418 XPAG 368 Dino 246 GT 23437 272
Porsche Carrera Engle, Elwood 166 Enzo 25051 Galaxie 500XL
911 RS 420 Enzo, Ferrari 25051 Redhead 24447 Sunliner 27073
Bristol 100D2 12 European Touring Testarossa 24447 GT40 25861
Cole, Ed, Car Championship Fiat Little Bird see Ford,
design 99, 118 70 500D 25457 Thunderbird
Coventry Climax Exner, Virgil Abarth 255 Mustang (1965)
342, 343 Chrysler see also Lancia 27881
Dauphine 426 300F 162 Fire Power engine Shelby Mustang
Fire Power 158, 161 Chrysler Imperial 158, 161 GT500 (1967)
Fireball 81 157 Fireball engine 81 28285
Firedome V8 204 Chrysler New Firedome V8 engine Sports Roadster
Floating Power 172 Yorker 158 204 27477
472 Index

Squarebird 277 Ghia Graduate, The and Alfa Hershey, Frank


Thunderbird (1955) Jolly 257 Spider 24 Cadillac Series 64
94, 26265 Maserati Ghibli 346, Grand Sport, Bugatti 99
Thunderbird (1962) 348 Veyron 7677 Ford Thunderbird
27477 Ghibli, Maserati Great One, Pontiac 262
William 186 34649 GTO 40811 Heynes, Bill 299
see also Continental; Spider 347 Gremlin, AMC 28 Hill, Graham 129
Mercury Giacosa, Dante 254 GT40, Ford 25861 Hill, Phil 368
Ford-O-Matic Giro-Poise roll GTO, Pontiac 40811 Hoffman, Dustin
transmission 263 control 93 Gullwing, Mercedes and Alfa Spider 24
Freon-12 gas Giugiaro, Giorgio 300SL 35659 Holden
suspension 109 BMW M1 72 FX 28891
Frogeye, Austin-
Healey 4851
DeLorean DMC 12
200 H Humpy 28891
Holley carburetor see
Frua, Pietro Gordon Keeble GT Halibrand pin-drive carburetors
AC 428 20, 23 286, 287 wheels 16 Hols, Dave 143
Maserati Kyalami Maserati Ghibli Hassan, Wally 299 Hornet, Hudson
350 349 Hawk, Packard 29495
FX, Holden 28891 Glasspar 312 39293 Hot One, Chevrolet
Goat, The, Pontiac headlights 11821

G 40811
Goertz, Albrecht
cyclops 455
frogs eyes 50
Hudson
Hornet 29495
Gable, Clark and BMW 507 64 low lights, Morris Step-Down 29495
Jaguar XK120 296 Datsun 240Z 196 Minor 380 Super Six 29293
Galaxie 500XL Toyota 2000 GT retractable 387 Humpy Holden
Sunliner, Ford 27073 442 stacked 360 28891
Gandini, Marcello 322 Goldfinger and Aston Twilight Sentinel Hurst transmission see
Gardner, Ava and Facel Martin 38 111 transmission
Visa II 224 Golf GTi, Healey, Donald Hussein, King and
de Gaulle, General and Volkswagen 46061 Austin-Healey Aston Martin 37
Citron DS21 178, 181 Goodyear tires see 3000 52 Hydra-Matic
General Motors tires Austin-Healey Sprite transmission see
Holden FX 28891 Gordon, John F. 98 MkI 48, 50 transmission
see also Buick; Gordon Keeble GT Henry J. Corsair, Hydro-Boost power
Cadillac; Chevrolet 28687 Kaiser 31617 brakes 112
Index 473

I Jensen
Interceptor 31011
Le Mans
Austin-Healey
Minor 380
Lyons, William
Iacocca, Lee Volvo P1800 462 Sprite 50 Daimler SP250
Ford Galaxie Jolly, Ghia 257 Jaguar C-Type Dart 190
400XL 300, 302 Jaguar C-Type 300
Sunliner 270
Ford Mustang 278 K Lotus Elite 341
Lefvre, Andr 172
Jaguar E-Type 306
Jaguar XK120 298
Impala, Chevrolet Kaiser Letter Car, Chrysler
12629
Imperial, Chrysler
Darrin 31215
Henry J. Corsair
16669
Level-Flight Torsion M
15457 31617 Aire suspension see M1, BMW 7275
Indy 500 139 Karmann suspension McNamara, Robert
Interceptor, Jensen Triumph TR5 448 Lexus LFA 33435 Ford Fairlane 500
31011 Volkswagen Beetle LFA, Lexus 33435 Skyliner 266
Isle of Man Manx 45659 lighting see headlights Mako Shark,
Trophy Rally 46 Kaye, Danny 224 Limited Riviera Chevrolet 14245
Issigonis, Alec Kelsey-Hayes wheels (1958), Buick 8689 Mansfield, Jayne
Austin Mini Cooper 274, 283 Lincoln Continental
44 Kennedy, John F. and Continental Mark II 186
Morris Minor 378 Lincoln Continental (1964) 33639 Ford Thunderbird
ItalDesign 72 336 Lincoln V8 engine 265
Kyalami, Maserati 188 Marek, Tadek engine

J 35051 Lion-Peugeot 398


Little Bird see
34, 35
market prices 89
Jaguar
C-Type 30003 L Thunderbird, Ford
Living Daylights, The 38
Maserati
De Tomaso Pantera
Daimler SP250 Dart Lamborghini Lockheed brakes see GT5 20811
19093 Countach 5000S brakes, Lockheed Ghibli 34649
E-Type 30609 32225 Loewy, Raymond Ghibli Spider 347
XK120 29699 Miura 31821 436 Kyalami 35051
XK150 30405 Quattrovalvole 324 Lord, Leonard 52 Merak 349
XKE 30609 Lancia Lotus Mistral 21
Jano, Vittorio 326 Aurelia B24 Spider Elan Sprint 34445 Max Trac antiskid
Jeep MB, Willys 32629 Elite 34043 brakes 96
46467 Stratos 33033 low lights, Morris Mazda RX7 35255
474 Index

Merak, Maserati
349
Chevrolet Corvette
Sting Ray 131, 144
Morris Minor 378
Moss transmission O
Merc-O-Matic Miura, Lamborghini 297 Oldsmobile
transmission see 31821 Motorsport see BMW 4-4-2 38891
transmission MM Convertible, Mulliner, H.J. & Co Cutlass 388, 390,
Mercedes Morris Minor Bentley Flying Spur 391
280SL 36063 37881 60, 61 Toronado 38487
300SL Gullwing Monroe, Marilyn Bentley R-Type W-30 391
35659 Cadillac Eldorado Continental 58
300SL Roadster 359
Mercedes Benz SLS
102
Ford Thunderbird
Mustang (1965),
Ford 27881 P
AMG 36465 265 Mustang GT500, Ford P1800, Volvo 46263
MG Monte Carlo Rally Shelby 28285 Pacer, AMC 2831
A 37071 Austin Mini Packard Hawk 39293
B 37273
Midget 51
Cooper 45
Chevrolet Monte N pagoda roof 363
Panhard Dyna 394
TC Midget 36669 Carlo 14647 Nader, Ralph Panhard PL17 Tigre
Miami Vice and Ferrari Panhard PL17 Chevrolet Corvair 39495
Testarossa 244 Tigre 394 Monza 134 Pantera GT5, De
Michelin tires Renault-Alpine Chrysler 300F 164 Tomaso 20811
TRX 245 426 Nardi steering wheel Panther, Chevrolet
XWX 239 Montreal, 328 138
Midget, MG 36669 Alfa Romeo 25 New Yorker, Chrysler personality of
Mile-O-Matic Monza, Chevrolet 15861 owners, and classic
transmission 221, 223 Corvair 13437 Nickles, Ned 78 cars 10
Mille Miglia 329 Moon, Sir Peter 46 Nissan 240Z 199 Persuaders, The and
Million Dollar Grin Moore, Audrey 453 Noddy car 257 Ferrari Dino 234
grille 78 MoPar compass 154 Nomad (1957), Petterson, Pelle
Mini Cooper, Austin Morgan Plus Four Chevrolet Bel Air 462
4447 37477 12223 Peugeot
Mistral, Maserati 21 Morris Minor Nova SS, Chevrolet 203 39699
Mitchell, Bill low lights 380 14849 Robert 398
Buick Riviera MM Convertible NSU Ro80 38283 Phantom Drophead,
90, 94, 97 37881 Nuova, Fiat 500D Rolls-Royce
Cadillac Series 62 99 Moss, Stirling and 25457 43233
Index 475

Picasso, Pablo 224


Pilote wheels 171
410
Trans Am R Tiger 43839
Ross, Art 99
Pininfarina design 41215 Rabe, Karl 416 Rudge wheels 65
Alfa Romeo 1300 Wide Track RAC Rally 446 RX7, Mazda 35255
Junior Spider 24, 26 Porsche Range Rover 42223
Ferrari
250 GT SWB 228
356B 41619
Carrera 911 RS
Red Liner
speedometer 85 S
275 GTB/4 232 42021 Redl, Jean 424 Saab 99 Turbo 43435
365 GT4 Berlinetta Ferry 416 Redhead, Ferrari Safety-Level
458 Italia 25253 Power-Shift 24447 suspension 156
Boxer 238 transmission 437 Renault-Alpine A110 Safety-Rim wheels 154
Dino 246 GT 234 Powerglide Berlinette 42427 Sainturat, Maurice
Lancia Aurelia B24 transmission see Renner, Carl 123 172
Spider 326, 329 transmission Reynolds, Debbie and Sayer, Malcolm
Pirelli P7 tires see tires Presley, Elvis Ford Thunderbird 265 Jaguar C-Type
PL17, Panhard Tigre Continental Mark II Riviera, Buick 300, 303
39495 186 (1958) Limited Jaguar E-Type 307
plastic fantastic, De Tomaso Pantera 8689 Scaglietti design
Chevrolet 13033 GT5 208 (1964) 9093 Ferrari 250GT
Plus Four, Morgan Prestomatic (1971) 9497 SWB 228
37475 transmission 154, Ro80, NSU Ferrari 275
Plymouth 155, 156 38283 GTB/X 232
Barracuda (1964) prices, asking 89 Roadmaster Ferrari 308 GTB 242
40003 Procar series 75 (1949) 7881 Ferrari 365 GT4
Cuda (1970) (1957) 8285 Berlinetta Boxer 238
40407
Police Interceptor Q Roadster, Mercedes
300SL 359
Schinella, John 414
seats
engine 285 Quattro Sport, Roadster, Tesla Strato 140
Pont-A-Mousson Audi 4043 44041 swivel 165
transmission see Quattrovalvole, Rolls-Royce, Silver Sebring 50
transmission Lamborghini 324 Cloud III 42831 de Segur Lauve,
Pontiac Queen of the Road, see also Bentley Henri 182
Goat 40811 Citron 173 Rolls-Royce Phantom Sellers, Peter 37
GTO 40811 Querfield, Art 277 Drophead 43233 Series 62, Cadillac
Tempest Le Mans Rootes, Sunbeam 98101
476 Index

Shark Sports Roadster, Ford Step-Down, Hudson suspension


Chevrolet 14245 27477 29495 Air-Poise 88
Citron 17881 Spring, Frank 292 Stepside, Chevrolet Bilstein gas-pressure
Shelby, Carroll Sprint, Lotus Elan 3100 12425 shock absorbers 75
AC Cobra 427 16 34445 Sting Ray (1966), De Dion
Ford Shelby Sprite Mk1, Chevrolet Corvette Aston Martin
Mustang Austin-Healey 4851 13033 V8 39
GT500 282, 283 Squarebird, Ford Stingray (1969), Gordon Keeble
Sunbeam Tiger 438 14245 Chevrolet Corvette GT 287
Shelby Standard Steel S3 14245 Lancia Aurelia
Cobra, Ford 283 Bentley 60, 61 Stratos, Lancia 33033 B24 Spider 329
Mustang GT500 Standard-Triumph see Street Hemi V8 Freon-12 gas 109
(1967), Ford 28285 Triumph engine 406 hydro-pneumatic
Silver Cloud III, Starburst wheels 16 Studebaker Avanti 173, 183
Rolls-Royce 42831 Starr, Ringo and Facel 43637 Hydrolastic 47
Skyliner, Ford Fairlane Vega II 224 suicide doors Level-Flight
500 26669 steering Fiat 500D 254 Torsion-Aire
Slap Stik Thandle Bishop cam-and-gear Lincoln Continental Chrysler New
transmission 406 14 338 Yorker 158
SLS AMG, Mercedes Saginaw 98 Sunbeam Tiger Safety-Level 156
Benz 364365 steering wheels 43839 Selectaride shock
SM, Citron 18285 Comfort-Tilt Sunliner, Ford absorbers 226
Soft-Ray tinted glass Chevrolet Camaro Galaxie 500XL
windshield 96
Solex carburetor 13
RS Convertible
138
27073
Super Duty engine T
speedometer Chevrolet Camaro 415 T-Bird see
Red Liner 85 SS396 152 Super Six, Hudson Thunderbird, Ford
Spider Moto-Lira 47 29293 TC Midget, MG
Alfa Romeo 1300 Nardi 328 Super Turbo-Fire V8 36669
Junior 2427 single-spoke 179 engine 118, 120 Teague, Richard 30
Lancia Aurelia Swing Away 274 Superleggera frame Teletouch
B24 32629 tilting AC Ace-Bristol 14 transmission
Maserati Ghibli Buick Riviera 95 Aston Martin 33, 36 219
347 Lincoln Sure-Grip differential Tempest Le Mans,
Sportmag wheels 149 Continental 339 see differential Pontiac 410
Index 477

Tesla Roadster 44041 Trans Am, Pontiac Hurst Slap Stik T-handle
Testarossa, Ferrari 41215 Dodge Charger 406
24447 Trans Am Racing 141 R/T 213 Teletouch 219
Thriftmaster six transmission Plymouth Torque Command 31
engine 125 Borg-Warner Barracuda 400 TorqueFlite
Thunderbird, Ford Citron SM 183 Hydra-Matic AMC Pacer 31
(1955) 26265 Daimler SP250 Cadillac 99, 105, Chrysler New
(1962) 27477 Dart 191 109, 112 Yorker 158, 159
Tiger, Sunbeam Ford Galaxie Hudson Hornet Dodge 213
43839 500XL Sunliner 295 Facel Vega II
Tigre, Panhard PL17 270 Kaiser Henry J. 227
39495 Jaguar XK150 Corsair 317 Plymouth 401
Tire Chain spray 150 305 Pontiac 409 Tuckermatic 453
Tjaarda, Tom 209 Maserati Ghibli Mile-O-Matic 221, TurboHydra-Matic
Tojeiro, AC 12 348 223 Buick Riviera 95
Toronado, Maserati Kyalami Moss 297 Cadillac 112
Oldsmobile 351 Pont-A-Mousson Chevrolet
38487 Bristol 13 Chrysler 300F 162 Corvette Sting
Torpedo, Tucker Cruise-O-Matic Facel Vega II 225, Ray 144, 145
45255 Ford Fairlane 500 227 Ferrari 400 GT
TorqueFlite Skyliner 269, 275 Power-Shift 243
transmission see Ford Galaxie automatic 437 Oldsmobile 386,
transmission 500XL Sunliner Powerglide 389
Tour de France 271 automatic 117, 121, Pontiac Trans Am
Rally 261 Ford Thunderbird 123, 129, 131 413
Tourer 275 Powerglide, Turbo-Drive
MGB 37273 Dynaflow Chevrolet Continental
Morris Minor MM Buick Limited Bel Air 121, 123 MarkII 187
37881 Riviera 86, 89 Corvair Monza Lincoln 337
Toyota 2000GT Buick Roadmaster 137 Turboglide 121, 123,
44243 78, 79, 81, 84, 85 Corvette 117 129
Traction Avant, Flight-O-Matic 393 Corvette Sting ZF
Citron 17073 Flight-Pitch Ray 131 BMW M1 75
Trademaster V8 Dynaflow 89 Prestomatic 154, Maserati Ghibli
engine 125 Ford-O-Matic 263 155, 156 348
478 Index

Traveller, Morris
Minor MM 379
Berlinetta Boxer
239 W wipers, clap hand 397
World Rally
Tremulis, Alex 455 Pilote 171 W-30, Oldsmobile 391 Championship, 1973
Triumph Pirelli 7 Wales, Prince of and Lancia Stratos 330
TR2 44447 Lancia Stratos Aston Martin V8 37 Renault-Alpine 427
TR3A engine 377 330 Wankel, Felix
TR6 44851
Truffaut, Franois
Pirelli P7
De Tomaso
Mazda RX7 352
NSU Ro80 383 X
and Facel Vega II Pantera GT5 210 Weber carburetor see XK120, Jaguar
224 carburetors 296299
Tucker
Preston 452
U wheels
Alpina 69
XK150, Jaguar
30405
Torpedo 45255 Unsafe at Any Speed Borrani 229 XKE, Jaguar 30609
TurboHydra-Matic Chevrolet Corvair Campagnolo 73 XPAG engine 368
transmission see Monza 134 Dunlop 48-spoke
transmission
Turbo-Drive
Chrysler 300F 164 center-lock 341
Formula Five Y
transmission see
transmission V chrome-look steel 91
Halibrand pin-drive 16
Yamaha six-cylinder
engine 443
Turboglide Vanishing Point and honeycomb 412
transmission 121,
123, 129
Dodge Charger R/T
215
Kelsey-Hayes 274
Kelsey-Hayes Z
Turner, Edward 192 Vantage, Aston Magstars 283 Zenith carburetor 66
Twitty, Conway and Martin 36 Pilote 171 ZF transmission see
Buick Riviera 91 Ventiports 78, 79, Rudge knockoff 65 transmission
tires 81, 82 Safety-Rim 154
Captive-Aire 160 Vignale design 310 Sportmag 149
Dunlop SP 311 Volante Convertible, Starburst 16
Goodyear 18 Aston Martin 36 Wide Track
Eagle 245 Volkswagen Wildcat V8 engine 92
Michelin TRX 245 Beetle Karmann Willys, Jeep MB
Michelin XWX 45659 46467
BMW 3.0CSL Golf GTi 46061 windshields
68 Volvo P1800 Soft-Ray tinted glass
Ferrari 365 GT4 46263 96
Index/Acknowledgments 479

A CKNOWLEDGMENTS
DORLING KINDERSLEY WOULD LIKE TO THANK: DORLING KINDERSLEY WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE
Nicky Lampon for additional editorial assistance; FOLLOWING FOR ALLOWING THEIR CARS TO BE
Chhaya Sajwan, Supriya Mahajan, Namita, and Neha PHOTOGRAPHED:
Sharma for design assistance; Shanker Prasad for Page 12 courtesy of Anthony Morpeth; p. 16 A.J.
additional DTP design assistance; Georgina Lowin for Pozner (Hendon Way Motors); p. 20 Louis Davidson;
picture research; Myriam Megharbi in the picture library; p. 24 Richard Norris; p. 28 Valerie Pratt; p. 32 Brian
Acorn Studios PLC; Action Vehicles of Shepperton Smail; p. 36 Desmond J. Smail; p. 40 David and Jon
Film Studios; Sarah Ashun; Dave Babcock; Philip Blythe Maughan; p. 44 Tom Turkington (Hendon Way
for supplying number plates; Bob and Ricky from D.J. Motors); p. 48 restored and owned by Julian Aubanel;
Motors; Andy Brown; Geoff Browne at Classic Car p. 52 courtesy of Austin-Healey Associates Ltd, Beech
Weekly; Phillip Bush at Readers Digest, Australia for Cottage, North Looe, Reigate Road, Ewell, Surrey,
supervising the supply of the Holden; Paul Charlton; KT17 3DH; p. 56 courtesy of Mr. Willem van Aalst;
Terry Clarke; Classic American magazine; Cobra Studios, p. 60 A.J. Pozner (Hendon Way Motors); p. 68 Terence
Manchester; Coulsdon Mark; Cricket; Barry Cunlisse of P.J. Halliday; p. 72 L & C BMW Tunbridge Wells; p. 78
the AAC (NW); Al Deane; Michael Farrington; Derek The Rt. Hon. Greg Knight; p. 82 57th Heaven Steve
Fisher; Jenny Glanville and Kirstie Ashton Bell at Wests 1957 Buick Roadmaster; p. 86 Geoff Cook; p. 90
Plough Studios; Rosie Good of the TR Owners Club; Tony Powell of Powell Performance Cars; p. 94 Tony
Andy Greenfield of the Classic Corvette Club (UK); Powell; p. 98 Liam Kavanagh; p. 102 Stewart Homan,
Peter Grist of the Chrysler Corp. Club (UK); William Dream Cars; p. 106 Garry Darby, American 50s Car
(Bill) Greenwood of the Cadillac Owners Club of Great Hire; p. 110 Tim Buller; p. 114 Alfie Orkin; p. 118
Britain; Rockin Roy Hunt; Kilian and Alistair Konig Dream Cars; p. 122 Mike and Margaret Collins; p. 124
of Konig Car Transport for vehicle transportation Phil Townend; p. 126 Mark Surman; p. 130 Benjamin
and invaluable help in sourcing cars; Dave King; Bill Pollard of the Classic Corvette Club UK (vehicle
McGarth; Ken McMahon at Pelican Graphics; Bill preparation courtesy of Corvette specialists D.A.R.T
Medcalf; Ben, Dan, and Rob Milton; Geoff Mitchell; Mr Services, Kent, UK); p. 134 Colin Nolson; p. 138 car
DeVoe Moore, Jeff Moyes of AFN Ltd; Colin Murphy; owned and restored by Bill Leonard; p. 142 Rick and
Terry Newbury; Colin Nolson; Gary Ombler; John Rachel Bufton; p. 146 Alex Gunn; p. 148 Tallahassee
Orsler; Paul Osborn; Ben Pardon; Tony Paton; Derek Car Museum; p. 150 Mike Webb; p. 154 Colin Nolson;
Pearson; Pooks motor bookshop and Cars and Stripes p. 158 Geoff Mitchell; p. 162 Alex Greatwood; p. 166
for original advertising material and brochures; Tony Geoff Mitchell; p. 170 Classic Restorations; p. 174 on
Powell at Powell Performance Cars; Antony Pozner at loan from Le Tout Petit Muse/Nick Thompson,
Hendon Way Motors for helpful advice and supply of director Sussex 2CV Ltd; p. 178 Classic Restorations;
nine cars; Kevin O Rourke of Moto-technique; Dave p. 182 Derek E.J. Fisher; p. 186 Steve Rogers; p. 190
Rushby; Peter Rutt; Ian Shipp; David and Christine Daimler SP 250 owned by Claude Kearley; p. 194 Steve
Smith; Ian Smith; George Solomonides for help with Gamage; p. 196 Kevin Kay; p. 200 D. Howarth; p. 204
sourcing images; John Stark; Richard Stephenson; Steve Nando Rossi; p. 208 Lewis Strong; p. 212 Neil Crozier;
at Trident Recovery; Straight Eight Ltd; Ashley Straw; p. 216 Gavin and Robert Garrow; p. 220 Charles
Dave and Rita Sword of the AAC; Tallahasee Car Booth; p. 224 owned and supplied by Straight Eight Ltd
Museum, Tallahasee, Florida; Gary Townsend; Marc (London); p. 233 A.J. Pozner (Hendon Way Motors);
Tulpin (Belgian representative of the AAC); John Weeks p. 234 A.J. Pozner (Hendon Way Motors); p. 238 A.J.
of Europlate for number plate assistance; Rob Wells; Pozner (Hendon Way Motors); p. 243 Dr. Ismond
and Margaret McCormack for compiling the index. Rosen; p. 244 by kind permission of J.A.M. Meyer;
480 Acknowledgments

p. 254 Janet & Roger Westcott; p. 258 Bell & Colvill saved this car from the scrapyard in 1974; restored
PLC, Epsom Road, West Horsley, Surrey KT24 6DG, by the owner in 1990, maintaining all original panels
UK; p. 262 Dream Cars; p. 266 Rockin Roy Hunt and mechanics; winner of many concourse trophies;
50s aficionado; p. 270 M. Fenwick; p. 274 Teddy p. 382 NSU Ro80 1972 David Hall; p. 384 Barrie
Turner Collection; p. 278 Max & Beverly Floyd; Cunliffe; p. 388 Cared for and cruised in by Mark
p. 282 Roy Hamilton; p. 286 Gordon Keeble by kind Phillips; p. 392 Peter Morey; p. 394 Panhard PL17
permission of Charles Giles; p. 292 David Selby; owned by Anthony T.C. Bond, Oxfordshire, editor
p. 294 Mike and Margaret Collins; p. 296 Jeff Hine; of Panoramique (Panhard Club newsletter); p. 396
p. 304 c/o Hendon Way Motors; p. 306 owner Phil Nick OHara; p. 400 Maurice Harvey; p. 404 Alan
Hester; p. 310 John F. Edwins; p. 312 Tallahassee Car Tansley; p. 408 courtesy of Peter Rutt; p. 412 Roger
Museum; p. 316 John Skelton; p. 318 privately owned; Wait; p. 416 owner Mr P.G.K. Lloyd; p. 420 c/o
p. 322 A.R.J. Dyas; p. 326 courtesy of Ian Fraser, Hendon Way Motors; p. 424 Richard Tyzacks historic
restoration Omicron Engineering, Norwich; p. 330 rally Alpine; p. 428 owned by Ian Shanks of
courtesy of Martin Cliff; p. 336 Michael Farrington; Northamptonshire; p. 434 David C. Baughan; p. 436
p. 340 Geoff Tompkins; p. 344 owner Phillip Collier, Dream Cars; p. 438 Peter Matthews; p. 442 Lord
rebuild by Daytune; p. 346 Alexander Fyshe; p. 350 Raynham of Norfolk; p. 444 E.A.W. Holden; p. 448
Edwin J. Faulkner; p. 352 Irene Turner; p. 360 Mrs. Brian Burgess; p. 452 Mr. DeVoe Moore, Tallahassee
Joan Williams; p. 366 courtesy of Chris Alderson; Car Museum, Tallahassee, Florida; p. 456 Nick Hughes
p. 370 John Venables; p. 372 John Watson, Abingdon- & Tim Smith; p. 460 Roy E. Craig; p. 462 Kevin Price,
on-Thames; p. 374 Martin Garvey; p. 378 E.J. Warrilow Volvo Enthusiasts Club; p. 464 Peter Barber-Lomax.

P ICTURE C REDITS
THE PUBLISHER WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE AGENCY PHOTOGRAPHS
FOLLOWING FOR THEIR KIND PERMISSION TO Aerospace Publishing Ltd: 64tl, 6465bc, 65tl,
REPRODUCE THEIR PHOTOGRAPHS:
66cl, 66bl, 67br, 6766tcr, 208tl, 208bc, 209tl,
t= top b= bottom c= center 210tc, 210clb, 211tc, 21011b, 224bc, 225tc,
l= left r= right a= above 226tl, 226bl, 227tc, 227bc, 232tl, 232c, 232bc,
COMMISSIONED PHOTOGRAPHY 242tl, 242c, 242bc, 300tl, 300bc, 301tc, 302tl,
30203bl, 303tc, 303bcr, 32223b, 323tc, 324tl,
Most pictures in this book are by Matthew Ward,
with a significant contribution by Andy Crawford. 324cb, 325tr, 325b, 442bl, 44243bc, 443tc.
Additional pictures are by: Peter Newarks Pictures: 277tr.
Nick Goodall : pp. 19t, 358br, 447tr
Clive Kane : pp. 28891 Giles Chapman Library: 63t, 77t, 253t, 335t,
Dave King (US): pp. 14849, 31215, 45255 365t, 423t, 433t, 441t.
Magic Car Pics: 249t, 251t.
Poole Collection: 19tc.
Readers Digest: 288tl, 288bc, 289tc, 289bc,
290tl, 290c, 290bl, 291br.
All other images Dorling Kindersley
For further information see: www.dkimages.com

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