The competition was tough, but I think the most extreme of the circa-1970 Italian wedge-front concept cars was the
Lancia Stratos Zero built by Carrozzeria Bertone and designed by
Marcello Gandini.
Some other wedge-front concept cars were the 1968 Alfa Romeo Carabo by Bertone (also designed by Gandini), the 1970 Ferrari Modulo by Pininfarina, and the 1972 Maserati Boomerang by Italdesign (Giorgetto Giugiaro).
The Stratos Zero was so extreme that it would be barely marginal as an everyday sports or grand touring car due to entry-egress difficulties and outside visibility limitations for the driver. I imagine that little thought was given to the possibility that it would ever enter production.
That said, I think it was the most interesting sculptural composition of the bunch noted above.
In the Gallery below, images of the Stratos Zero with bronze paint might be via RM Sotheby's. I'm not sure of the image source of the silver-finish paint scheme variation.
Gallery
The Stratos Zero as it would appear if you encountered it parked.
Its layout is mid-engine. Rear wheels are considerably larger than the front wheels.
Being a concept car, trivial matters such as bumper protection are ignored.
Besides the large, nearly-flat windshield, there are small side windows. The lower one is essentially useless functionally, but helps the design composition a little.
Left side view.
This is where one can enter or leave the car. The steering wheel would have to pivot to allow entry.
All movable panels are open. The large, triangular one is for engine access.
2 comments:
It's the Isetta of supercars. Also the inspiration for the Tesla pickup truck, except for being prettier and more practical (I mean the Stratos.)
The Stratos Zero's unique and daring design truly sets it apart, even if it may not have been practical for everyday use. The challenges in terms of entry-egress and visibility only add to its mystique, making it a true standout among the competition. It's intriguing to consider the thought process behind its creation, and whether or not anyone could have imagined it becoming a production vehicle.
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