Despite launching the world’s cheapest V12, Auburn’s success waned in the mid-1930s as Cord’s business ventures expanded to include Lycoming, Duesenberg, Columbia Axle, Checker Cab, and interests in shipbuilding and aviation. Auburn’s peak came in 1935 with the 851, a remarkable car with a 4.6-litre, supercharged straight-eight engine and a striking boat-tail speedster design by […]
Monthly Archives: July 2024
The XK140, despite having one of the finest sports car chassis and engines, appeared somewhat outdated when it debuted in 1954. Its design closely mirrored its predecessor, the XK120, crafted by Jaguar’s boss William Lyons in 1948. Lyons, known for his eclectic style, had incorporated the best of European designs into the XK120. However, by […]
Designed by Ferry Porsche, the 356 was based on the Volkswagen created by his father, Ferdinand Porsche. Like the ‘Beetle’, the 356 used a platform chassis with a rear-mounted air-cooled engine and torsion bar independent suspension. The 356 saw constant development, with its engine growing to 1.3 and then 1.5 liters, the split windscreen replaced […]
Often hailed as the more refined counterpart to the Cobra, the AC Ace Bristol epitomizes the essence of a classic British sports car. With its graceful aluminum body, weighing under 2,000 pounds, it offers a nimble and exhilarating driving experience. Styled reminiscently of the Ferrari 166 Barchetta, the AC Ace Bristol boasts a striking and […]
In 1961, Lancia introduced the new front-wheel-drive Flavia series, followed by the development of the Zagato-built Sport model the next year. Designed by Ercole Spada, the Sport featured an alloy body that significantly reduced weight compared to other Flavia variants. Its distinctive appearance was enhanced by panoramica rear quarter windows that extended into the roofline. […]
Introduced in 1969, Ford’s performance-focused Mustang Mach 1 swiftly captured the attention of street racers, partly due to its affordability, rapid acceleration, and aggressive styling. Built on the fastback-bodied Mustang platform, the Mach 1 boasted distinctive design elements and performance enhancements. These included a competition suspension, a Ram Air hood scoop, vivid color choices, a […]
Construzione Automobili Intermeccanica started in 1959 in Torino, Italy, initially focusing on automotive tuning kits. Founded by entrepreneur Frank Reisner, the company later relocated to Canada. Their early productions were Formula Junior racers equipped with Peugeot engines. However, Reisner soon began importing American V8 engines for their chassis, leading to the creation of the Apollo […]
The company’s flagship in the 1950s was the 300 S, a luxurious Grand Tourer echoing the pre-war 540 K but both lighter and faster. The 300 debuted at the 1951 Paris Salon as Mercedes-Benz’s first post-WWII prestige car. The range included a six-light, four-door saloon, a cabriolet, and three two-door variants on a shorter wheelbase. […]