- Paris, Rétromobile 2020 -

The 2020 edition of RETROMOBILE gathered 122 500 visitors and more than 600 vehicles displayed on 65 000m² remains one of the most successful meeting for car collectors and enthousiasts.

This edition included special exhibit of Carrozzeria Bertone or McLaren racing successes. It was the occasion of several anniversary like the 110 years of Alfa Romeo, the 50th anniversary of the Citroen GS and the Citroen SM with Maserati powertrain. The Alfa Romeo anniversary hommage was quite complete with exhibits by FCA Heritage and Lukas Huni. Retromobile has become a real living encyclopedia where it is possible to discover automobiles from different ages and from different brands.

We have tried to put together a review of classic and historic cars of different famous car manufacturers placed in chronologic order. We hope you enjoy the visit through these selection of exhibits.

Artcurial Auction sale at Retromobile was once again a success this year. The auction, taken by the acclaimed trio of Hervé Poulain, Matthieu Lamoure and Pierre Novikoff realised a total of 22 894 104 € / 24 954 573 $., with 70 % of all lots sold. We have tried here to illustrate the great diversity of the lots sold.

1. Chronological Review of Historic and Classic Cars at 2020 Retromobile
2. Overview of Artcurial Auctions ( not exhaustive )

1 - Chronological Review of Historic and Classic Cars at 2020 Retromobile

1925 Bentley 3 Litre Speed Model Vanden Plas Open Tourer - FISKENS

1928 Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 Super Sport - Exhibit FCA Heritage

1928 Mercedes Benz Type SSK Rennsportwagen - Movendi

1931 Bentley 4.5 Litre Sportmans Coupe Maythorns of Biggleswade Coachwork - Fiskens

1932 Alfa Romeo Tipo B (P3) First Series 5006 - Lukas Huni

1933 Alfa Romeo 8C2300 Spider by Touring - Lukas Huni Exhibit

1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Long Chassis Pinin Farina Cabriolet - Lukas Huni

Vittorio Jano was one of the greatest competition car designers of all times and designed a succession of touring and sports cars, culminating in the Alfa Romeo 8C2300 which had the 2336 cc 8 cylinder supercharged engine from the Monza racing cars. The 8C2300 is rated by many to be the greatest sports and racing car of all times. Alfa Romeo made 4 different basic models of the 8C2300- the 8C2300 Le Mans Long Chassis (in the early years 4 seats were mandatory to race at Le Mans alternatively with Zagato or Touring coachwork), the 8C2300 Long Chassis touring car (with a variety of different coachwork options), the 8C2300 Short Chassis (mainly Spider version with Zagatoor Touring coachwork alternatively) and the 8C2300 Monza-the ultimate race version of the 8C2300.

The particular car shown here, Alfa Romeo 8C2300 Cabriolet Chassis N°2211075, is part of the 8C2300 Long Chassis family and features Cabriolet coachwork by Pinin Farina.

1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sport - Passion of a Lifetime Auction

1935 Scuderia Ferrari Alfa Romeo SF48 Bimotore- Lukas Huni

The year 1934 marked the domination of racing through German technological might in the form of Mercedes Benz and Auto Union Grand Prix cars, made possible by the unlimited government financing and the ability to create new and lighter composite metals allowing to increase the displacement size of their engines upwards of 4000 cc. Gone was the dominance by France and Italy as the traditional elite of race car manufacture.

Alfa Romeo was desparate to regain their superiority. Scuderia Ferrari was tasked by Alfa Romeo to build their own supercar under the new Formula Libre- effectively lifting all weight and power restrictions. Long time Ferrari Technical Director Luigi Bazzi was not known for half measures. With a team of 30 employees at Scuderia Ferrari, Bazzi designed the Bimotore based on the Tipo B, featuring two Tipo B engines of 3165 cc that were placed in front and behind the driver with the rear engine facing to the rear. The differential was located in the middle with the power from both engines supplied to the rear wheels through twin driveshafts. The fuel tanks were placed on each side of the car for weight distribution. The performance with 540 hp from the two engines was enormous and surpassed both the Mercedes Benz and the Auto Union at 430 hp and 375 hp respectively. Two cars were built in total.

The Bimotore was intendedfor the fast tracks of the Formula Libre calendar, and the task was to compete with the large-engine competitors from Germany and France. Tough Alfa Romeo had access to several excellent drivers (René Dreyfus, Louis Chiron, etc) Enzo Ferrari knew only one driver could rise to this challenge- Great Mantuan Tazio Nuvolari. There was a rumor that Benito Mussolini himself intervened to persuade Nuvolari to leave Maserati and come back to Alfa Romeo.

Two Bimotore were entered for the 1935 Tripoli Grand Prix with Nuvolari and Chiron. While Caracciola and Fagioli shot into the lead. Nuvolari was able to pass Fagioli only to have to pit on the third lap for new rear tires. By race end Nuvolari would claim fourth followed by Chiron in a race won by Caracciola. Two weeks later at the Avus race in Berlin, Chiron conquered second place after Nuvolari did not finish due to constant shredding of his tires. In June 1935 Nuvolari set a land speed record on the Firenze-Lucca highway, his top speed on the second run exceeding 362 kilometer per hour.

Unfortunately, the breath taking performance in a straight line came at the high price of high weight (1300 kg), difficult handling with tire shredding causing frequent pit stops, as well as high fuel consumption. The Bimotore was not successful. One of the Bimotore was scrapped, the only remaining one was sold to British amateur driver Auston Dobson who raced the car in various British events including Brooklands and Donington, it later joined Tom Wheatcroft's Donington Collection. Today the Bimotore resides in a European collection.

1935-1939 Delahaye 135S Competition by Pourtout - Classic Le Mans

Delahaye first cars were built in 1895 designed throughout by Emile Delahaye. Emile Delahaye became racing driver and took part in some of the great town-to-town events. Delahaye's main business was commercial vehicles and fire engines with a reputation to be robust and reliable. A few cars were also produced; In 1934, Delahayes management decided for a drastic change and launched the 135 model line. A six cylinder engined chassis was proposed with engine capacity of 3. 557 cc. The purpose of the 135 was to change the image of the company and enter the market of prestigious saloon and sporst cars. Some of the most famous coachbuilders, like Chapron or Figoni & Falashi, have provided some "classic" cars.

see Delahaye 135 S Competition Pourtout 1935-1939

1937 Mercedes Benz 540 K Cabriolet A Sindelfingen - RM Sotheby

The manufacturing record of the 540 K reveals its exclusive nature: 97 being produced in 1936, 145 in 1937, 95 in 1938 and 69 in 1939. The magnificent Mercedes-Benz 540K represented the pinnacle of the pre-war achievements by the Stuttgart firm during the 1930s. A development of the 500K, whose independently suspended chassis it shared, the 540K was powered by a 5.4-litre supercharged straight-eight engine.

5,401cc OHV Inline 8-cylinder Engine with Roots Supercharger
180bhp at 3400rpm With Blower Engaged
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

see Mercedes Benz 540K Special Roadster 1939

1938 Rosengart Sutosix Super Sept Electric Coupe transformed in electric propulsion during 1940 - FFVE

The Delage D6 3 Litre driven by Louis Gerard and Georges Monneret was leading by two laps the Le Mans 24 Hours one hour before the finish of the race. A sudden broken valve spring handed the race to the Bugatti and the Delage finished second overall.

Louis Delage and Walter Watney had been desapointed by the lack of success of their 4.5 Litre V12 racing project during the 1937-1938 season and they decided to develop a new racing car derived from the Delage D6. Two chassis were built and were sent to coachbuilder Olivier Lecanu-Deschamps for an aluminium body. A cowled radiator and a fairing covered the front suspension, into which the lights were recessed. Aerodynamically shaped cycle wings were added. The specification of the straight six engine included an aluminium alloy cylinder head, modified inlet and exhaust manifolds and three Solex carburettors. In this form the engine produced 125 bhp at 4000 rpm linked to a Cotal gearbox. During testing at Monthlery the Delage reached 130 mph (210 kph).

(source Quentin Spurring- The official history of Le Mans 1930-39 )

1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Sport Cabriolet by Touring - Anna Lisa Collection

Debuting at the 1925 Milan Auto Show, the Alfa Romeo six cylinder 6C 1500 set the standard for lightweight, high performance road car and was followed in 1929 by the 6C 1750. The next evolution of the 6Ccame in 1934, and although traditional in its layout, the 6C 2300 had nearly twice the displacementof the car it succeeded. Accordingly, it was a highly competent automobile capable of providing excellent performance with multi passenger coachwork.

In 1939, the 6C 2300 was replaced by the 6C 2500. This change was completed by an increase in the cylinder bore of two millimetres, as well as an improved cylinder head for better aspiration and increased compression from 6,5:1 to 7,11:1. In the sport configuration this translated inti a respectable 95 hp with performance aided by lightweight aluminium coachwork. There was 86 models built in 1939 its first production year.

In 2016, one 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Sport Cabriolet by Touring was sold for £ 952.000 at RM London Auction Sale. (source RM Sotheby)

1941 Peugeot VLV with electric propulsion - Peugeot Aventure

Petrol scarcity during Second World War induced Peugeot to produce the VLV ( Vehicle Leger de Ville or Light Urban Vehicle) with two seats. Weight 350 kg of which 160 kg are for the batteries. Operating range 80 km. Top speed 36 kph. 377 cars produced. These vehicles were essentially used for Post distribution or medical assistance since war conditions required special driving authorisation.

see Peugeot VLV electric 1941 1945

J.A. Gregoire (1899-1992) is a Polytechnic engineer widely involved in the development of automobile. He developed a front wheel drive Tracta with which he participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. He developed an aluminium chassis for the Hotchkiss Gregoire before participating in the development of the electric CGE Tudor with the Compagnie Generale d'Electricité (CGE), l'Aluminium Français Gregoire (soon to become Pechiney), the automaker Hotchkis and the Societé des Batteries Tudor (Tudor batteries producer). The electric CGE Tudor was produced at 200 examples at a war time when petroleum supply was scarce. Two models were produced, a standard version with 400 kg batteries proposing 163 km range at average speed 41 kph and a record verions with 720 kg batteries proposing 250 km range at average speed of 42 kph.

This car chassis N°110002 is the second example of Antony Lago's legendary 4.5 Litre monopostos. Competed extensively in European Grand Prix driven by Ralph, Chaboud, Mairesse, Chiron and Etancelin.

see related article Talbot T26 GS le Mans 1950 - 1951

The Jaguar MkIV 3.5 Liter is the continuation of the production of the SS after World War II with a new name Jaguar. With a powerful 125 hp inline six cylinder , the 3.5 Litre DHC has a top speed of 91 mph. The engine was linked to a five-speed manual transmission. The car was equipped with four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. There was a solid front axle and rear live axle with semi elliptic springs front and rear. An interior awash in polished walnut and Conolly leather made the Jaguar a more attractive option for the money over anything on either side of the pond. William Lyons opened a sales network in the U.S. and one of the first sixteen cars sold overseas went to actor Clark Gable.

This car is one of only 376 3.5 Liter built for export market with left hand steering wheel.

One 1948 Jaguar 3.5 Liter Mk IV drophead coupe was sold for US$ 110.000 at RM Sotheby Auction Sale in Monterey California in 2011. (source RM Sotheby 2011)

1950 Ferrari 166 MM Berlinetta Touring - TRADEX

Count Giannino Marzotto bought the Ferrari 166MM from Enzo Ferrari. Touring provided it with an aerodynamic coupé body in Touring Superleggera construction. The car had been presented at the 1950 Geneva Motor Show, and Count Marzotto's aim was to drive it to victory in the 1950 Mille Miglia.

He was not happy with the output of the 166MM, however, and so Ferrari provided him with a new V12 Type 195 Colombo engine. This proved a resounding success: Count Marzotto and co-driver Marco Corsaro in car N° 724 swept to victory in the 1950 Mille Miglia. Sporting the spurs of this challenging "1.000 mile race", the Ferrari was exhibited at the Turin Motor Show that immediately followed.

1951 Ferrari 212 Export Coupe Vignale - Lukas Huni

Ferrari wasted no time in exploring the potential of Lampredi's successful, Grand Prix, 'long-block' V12 engine as a road-going power unit, introducing the 340 America at the Paris Salon in October 1950, just a few months after its 4.1-litre engine's race debut. Just 23 of these competition-inspired 'big bangers' would be produced before production ceased in 1952.

Its successor, the 342 America, was conceived from the outset as a pure road car. More robust and better equipped than the lighter, competition-orientated 340 America, the '342' boasted a 9" longer wheelbase and a four-speed all-synchromesh gearbox. It retained its predecessor's Lampredi-designed, 4,101cc, two-cam V12 engine which, in '342' configuration, produced 200bhp at 5,000rpm. Just six 342 Americas were made in 1952/53. All but the first of the series, a Vignale cabriolet on chassis number '0232AL', were bodied by Pinin Farina, two as cabriolets and three as coupés, each of these hand-built cars being a unique creation to individual customer order as was the practice at the time.

One 1952 Ferrari 342 America Coupe Special by Pinin Farina was sold for US$ 632.500 at 2012 Arizona RM Sotheby Auction Sale . Source RM Sotheby 2012 and Bonhams 2003.

1953 Ferrari 250 MM Berlinetta Pinin Farina ex-Noblet - Kidston

The Ferrari 250 Mille Miglia was tailor-made to compete in frontline long-distance races, following upon the success of the pioneering 3-litre V12-engined 250S Coupe driven by Giovanni Bracco in the 1952 edition of the round-Italy thousand-mile road race. At the 1952 Paris Salon de l'Automobile exhibition, Ferrari showed a more conventional chassis for the new modello 250 3-litre V12-cylinder engine, for which the artistry of Carrozzeria Pinin Farina then created two-seat closed-cabin bodywork with aggressive 'potato-chipper' nose-grille treatment, a muscular, tucked-down tail and panoramic rear window – the defining Ferrari Berlinetta form. The new model was launched at the 1953 Geneva Salon as the Ferrari 250 MM (for Mille Miglia).
It was based upon a longer-wheelbase chassis than the 250 S at 2420 mm (95.3 in), with the Berlinetta version some 50 kg (110 lb) heavier than the sister 850 kg (1,874 lb) open-cockpit Barchetta which accompanied it. The V12 engine's dry sump was omitted for the production car, and four-speed transmission was adopted instead of five-speed. Power output increased to 237bhp (177 kW; 240 PS).

In 2014 at Quail Lodge California a Ferrari 250 MM Berlinetta previously owned by racing driver Phil Hill was sold fo US$ 7.260.000 at Bonhams Auction Sale.

Source - Bonhams 2014 - see also Ferrari 250 MM Berlinetta Pinin Farina 1953

Few sports-racing cars have achieved such legendary status as the Jaguar C-Type, which won the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice for Coventry during the company’s domination of the event in the 1950s. The C-Type began life as the famed XK120 roadster, which had taken the world by storm in 1948 with its revolutionary dual overhead-cam engine.

Initially known as the XK120C (C for competition), the C-Type debuted at Le Mans in 1951 with a team of factory-sponsored cars. While two of the three entries were forced to retire early with oil line issues, the car driven by Peter Walker and Peter Whitehead took the overall victory—the first British car to win Le Mans in nearly 20 years.

220 bhp, 3,442 cc DOHC inline six-cylinder engine with three Weber carburetors, four-speed fully synchronized manual transmission, independent front suspension with upper and lower wishbones, torsion bars, and hydraulic dampers, live rear axle with trailing arms, ‘double-action’ torsion bar, and torque reaction member with hydraulic dampers, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 96 in.

In 2015, one Jaguar C Type was sold for US$ 13.200.000 at RM Sotheby Auction Sale in Monterey California. It was Chassis N°052 that is one of three lightweight Works Team car and finished 4th overall at Le Mans in 1953.

(source RM Sotheby)

1954 Alfa Romeo 2000 Sportiva Prototype - Lukas Huni Exhibit

At Portello, Alfa Romeo Company Director Orazio Satta Puliga and Development Head Giuseppe Basso marked the beginning of Assembly Line Production and monocoque technique. In addition to the basic 1900 model, Alfa Romeo planned a limited series of luxurious high speed cars that could be used on the road as in competition. Working with the leading "Carrozzieri of the time, and following the spectacular Disco Volante, Alfa Romeo engaged Bertone to design a Spider and a Berlinetta based on the 1900.

Franco Scaglione at Bertone created coachwork which was set to design trend throughout the Fifties, many features seen again in the later Giulietta and indeed the Tipo 33 Stradale. Named 2000 Sportiva 2 Spider versions were made, but the most fascinating variant was the closed Berlinetta variant of which 2 cars were made. Sophisticated technology with space frame guaranteed stability and a competitive weight (only 915 kg), and Scaglione combined favourable aerodynamics with uniquely beautiful lines. Technically the 1997 cc 4 cylinder twin cam engine with twin-choke Weber carburettors, dry sump lubrication and 138 hp, combined with a five speed transmission, double wishbone suspension, de Dion rear axle and inboard rear brakes provided excellent performance (top speed 220 kph) and handling.

The Alfa Romeo's first all-new offering of the post-war period arrived in 1950. Designed by Dr Orazio Satta Puliga and intended for volume production, the 1900 was the first Alfa to employ unitary construction and - in keeping with the company's sporting heritage - was powered by a twin-overhead-camshaft engine. A four-cylinder unit, the latter displaced 1,884cc and produced 90bhp, an output sufficient to propel the four-door saloon to 93mph.

Launched in 1951, the 1900C Sprint featured bodywork by Pinin Farina (cabriolet) and Touring (coupé), both models utilising the 100bhp engine of the 1900TI sports saloon.

The final episode of the 1900 was the Super series, of which the Berlina, or saloon, and the 1900C Super Sprint were produced from 1953 to 1958.  The Super series was mainly distinguished by the fact that the engine was enlarged raising capacity from 1,884cc to 1,975cc. 854 examples of the Alfa Romeo 1900 CSS Coupe Touring were produced.

In 2015, one 1954 Alfa Romeo 1900 CSS Coupe Touring was sold for Euros 176.426 at Bonhams Goodwood Auction Sale. In 2019, one 1954 Alfa Romeo 1900 CSS Coupe Touring was sold for Euros 230.000 at RM Sotheby Auction Sale in Paris.

(source Bonhams 2015-RM Sotheby 2019)

1957 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Veloce Zagato SVZ - Lukas Huni Exhibit

Alfa Romeo had achieved its image of world's greatest Prewar car thanks to the 6C1750 Grand Sport of the Twenties and the 8C2300 of the Thirties, which won the 24 Hours of Le Mans no less than 4 times (1931,1932,1933,1934). After all had come to a halt during WW2, big efforts were made in the immediate Postwar years to resurrect the Prewar image of the marque. Winning the World Championship in 1950 (Farina onAlfetta 158) and 1951 (Fangio on Alfetta 159) gave an enormous boost to put Alfa Romeo on the map for the Fifties.

In addition to the very successful Giuletta production line (ultimately 17700 cars), the Alfa Romeo factory wanted to build an even more sporting model line aimed at its clients interested in ultimate preformance. The qualities of the standard Giulietta model (road holding, manoeuvrability, effective brakes, excellent engine , good comfort) were an excellent basis when in 1957 Alfa Romeo cooperated with Bertone to create the Sprint Speciale, featuring extravagant styling by Franco Scaglione, a sporty interior and 5-speed transmission, with a weight of 860 kg.

The constant aim for high performance, and the continuous interest by amateur drivers to participate in competition, kept the momentum at Alfa Romeo to support all efforts for that puyrpose. Coincidence helped when in 1956 the Carozzeria Zagato well known for lightweight constructions, was asked to rebody a client's Giuletta Sprint Veloce Coupé which had been seriously damaged in a road accident. Hence was created the Sprint Veloce Zagato, SVZ in short, featuring a sporting all aluminium lightweight, spartan but very beautiful Berlinetta- with complete absence of any luxury and minimal interior with Zagato lightweight seats- with a total weight of only 770 kg, nearly 100 kg lighter than anything before.

Instant success by the SVZ on racetracks, with a top speed of nearly 200 kph, demostrated the superiorityof this variant over the standard production cars. A fact that was not ignored by Alfa Romeo who as a result introduced the Zagato as an official model in 1961, called the Sprint Zagato (SZ) Coda Tonda (round rear end) - a slighly modified version of the SVZ. Seventeen example of the SVZ were produced.

In 2012, one 1958 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Veloce Zagato was sold for Euros 414.000 at RM Sotheby Auction in Monaco.

1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT- Sports Classics Geneva London

1961 Alfa Romeo Giuletta Sprint Zagato SZ Coda Tonda - Lukas Huni

In addition to the very successful Giulietta production line (ultimately 177.000) cars), the Alfa Romeo factory wanted to buildan even more sporting model line aimed at its clients interested to ultimate performance. The qualities of the standard Giulietta model (road holding, manoeuvrability, effective brakes, excellent engine, good comfort) were an excellent basis when in 1957 Alfa Romeo cooperated with Bertone to create the Sprint Speciale, featuring extravagant styling by Franco Scaglione, a sporty interior and 5 speed transmission with a weight of 860 kg.

The constant aim for high performance, and the continuous interest by amateur drivers to participate in competition, kept the momentum at Alfa Romeo to support all efforts for that purpose. Coincidence helped when in 1956 the Carrozzeria Zagato, well known for lightweight constructions, was asked to rebody a client's Giulietta Sprint Veloce Coupe which had been seriously damagedin a road accident. Hence was created the Alfa Romeo Sprint Veloce Zagato -in short- SVZ, featuring a sporting all aluminium lightweight spartan but beautiful berlinetta- with complete absence of any luxury and a minimal interior with Zagato lightweight seats- with a total weight of only 785 kg.

Instant success by the SVZ on the racetracks, with a top speed of nearly 200 kph, demostrated the superiority of this variant over the standard production cars. A fact that was not ignored by Alfa Romeo who as a result introduced the Zagato as an official model in 1961, called the Alfa Romeo Sprint Zagato (SZ) Coda Tonda (round rear end), a slightly modified version of the SVZ.

1961 Ferrari 250 GT Passo Corto Competizione Berlinetta - Lukas Huni

Up until World War II, Alfa Romeo was considered a low volume manufacturer of extremely sporty and high quality cars targeted at an elite clientele. After World War II during which the Alfa Romeo plant was heavily bombarded and the European economy extremely weakened, the Milan based company found itself in difficulties finding buyers for their very sophisticated, hand crafted and expensive automobiles. Their first newly developed car the war was the Alfa Romeo 1900 which was first shown to the public in 1950. It was Alfa Romeo first car to be built on a production line which enabled them to produce a much higher number of cars.With the economy recovering only slowly, this relatively large and expensive automobile still struggled to find many buyers. The need for a smaller, less expensive car was desperately needed.

The Giulietta was developed to do just that, and the Giulietta Sprint (a beautiful coupé by Bertone) was first shown to the public at the Turin Motor Show in 1954. Shortly after followed the 4 door Giulietta Berlina and the breathtakingly beautiful Giulietta Spider designed by Pinin Farina. All Giulietta were powered by a highly sophisticated twin cam 1290cc 4 cylinder engine in various states of tune. Indeed, the Giuletta became a tremendous success, and with a total of nearly 177.000 produced vehicles it saved Alfa Romeo from bankrupcy. Only some 3058 examples of the Giulietta Sprint sporty Veloce version were produced between 1956 and 1962. The Veloce version variant distinguished itself through twin Weber carburettors, a higher compression ratio, different camshafts, a special high performance air intake box and a finned high performance oil sump. The result was 90 hpwhich, combined with a weight of a little over 890 kg, made it one of the fastest road cars of the Fifties (top speed 180 kph). In 1959 the 750E Giulietta was pgraded to the 101 Series Giulietta which included various small mechanical changes in favour of reliability a modernised front grille, larger taillights and some trim changes.

1961 Renault Floride - Renault Classic

1962 Maserati 3500 GTi Coupe Touring - Tridente Classiche

1963 1968 ISO Grifo A3C and Bizzarini 5300 GT - Auto d'Epoca and ASCOTT

In 1963 the ISO Company introduced at the Turin Motor Show two new two seats short wheelbase coupes, the Iso Grifo A3L for Lusso and the Iso Grifo A3 C for Competition. Both cars presented specific body styles prepared once again by Carrozzeria Bertone with styling design by Giorgetto Giugiaro.

When Renzo Rivolta decided to discontinue the production of the A3 C, Giotto Bizzarini obtained the license to produce the car on its own under the designation of Bizzarini 5300 GT.

In the ISO Grifo A3C and Bizzarini 5300 GT the engine is placed in "front-mid-engine" position behind the front axle and so much back in the car that there is a trap on the dashboard to access the distributor. A dry sump lubrication system allows to place the engine in a low level improving the position of the centre of gravity and allowing a more streamlined body shape at the front.

see Iso Grifo A3 C and Bizzarini 5300 GT 1963 1968

Following Alfa Romeo's tremendous success with the Giulietta model, development began on a suitable replacement - the Giulia. The more grown up model designation already hints that the twin cam 4 cylinder engine was enlarged from 1290 cc to 1570 cc which helped especially with higher low-end torque. The Milan based coachbuilder Zagato was Alfa Romeo's preferred partner when it came to the development of racing cars. Especially after the great sporting success with the Zagato built Giulietta SZ line, they were commissioned again to develop a competition version of the Giulia. The development for the Giulia TZ started already in 1959, well before the presentation of the new Giulia production model. In order to make the Giulia TZ with its small 4-cylinder engine match the much more powerful competitors (e.g. Ferrari) the TZ needed to have extremely low weight and good aerodynamics. Zagato therefore decided to build a tubular spaceframe chassis (hence the name TZ for Tubulare Zagato) with a streamlined body from extremely thin aluminium. The space frame alone weighed 62 kg and the total curb weight of the car was a mere 660 kg. This featherweight together with the highly sophisticated twin cam engine (developing 112 hp in street trim but up to 150 hp in race trim) made for an extremely successful racing car. Further technological highlights were all round disc brakes and independent suspension.

In order to homologate the Giulia TZ in the GT racing class, at least 100 units had to be produced and eventually 112 cars were made between 1964 and 1965. Since Alfa Romeo no longer had any factory involvement in racing, all cars left the Arese works in standard trim, but many were then taken to Conrero- an official Alfa Romeo race car preparer to make the cars even more suited for competition.

One 1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ was sold for £ 254,500(€ 273,700) at 2008 Bonhams Auction Sale at Goodwood

One 1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ was sold for Euros 955.440 at 2013 Artcurial Auction Sale at Retromobile event.

One 1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ was sold for U.S.$ 1.023.000 at 2014 Gooding and Company Auction Sale at Pebble Beach California.

1966 Ferrari 275 GTB Competizione - FISKENS

The Ferrari P4 is a development of the 1966 Ferrari P3. The Ferrari 330 P4 has a more powerful four litre 12 cylinder engine. The Ferrari 330 P4 completed a famous 1rst 2nd and 3rd postion at 1967 24 Hours of Daytona in the middle of the historic fight between Ferrari and Ford.

see Ferrari 330 P3 1966

The Porsche 910 was prepared during 1966 as a development of the Porsche 906 intended for hillclimb events as well as long-distance races. The chassis is a multi-tubular unit lighter than the one of the Porsche 906 . The front track has been widened. The bodywork is sleeker and lower than the 906. The roof can be removed allowing for the choice between an open car or a coupé. The doors are hinged at their front edge and tilt forward for opening. The rear portion of the body can be pivoted toward the back while allowing full access to the engine and the transmission.

see Porsche 910 1967

Early on in McLaren’s history, company founder and racing driver Bruce McLaren set out to capitalise on the team’s success in the Can-Am series by building a racing car for the road.  The McLaren M6 GT was Bruce’s pet project and he developed the car in-house at his Colnbrook factory near London during 1968/9.  Only one prototype was made based on the dominant 1967 McLaren M6 chassis – a full monocoque tub made of aluminium alloy sheet over steel bulkheads.  The engine was a 5.7 litre Ford unit producing around 370bhp and the chassis was clothed in an attractive coupé body made of reinforced polyester resin.  The M6 GT’s dry weight of 725 kilos testifies that it really was a racing car for the road, rather than a civilised supercar.

Three examples were completed with this example propelled by 4942 cc 370 hp Chevrolet V8 engine. One example became Bruce McLaren personal car.

see McLaren M6 Gt 1968

1969 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33-3 - RM Sotheby

The Iso Grifo is a sports car built by the Italian automobile manufacturer Iso Rivolta from 1964 to 1974. The two-seater Iso Grifo-Coupé with a sporty design was conceived as a automobile in the Gran Turismo tradition for wealthy gentleman drivers. The coachwork of the ISO Grifo was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro while working at Carrozzeria Bertone. Engineer Giotto Bizzarrini,a former employee of Ferrari , played a defining role in the development of the Grifo. Bizzarrini left Ferrari after a dispute and established his own design studio in Livorno in 1963.

see also ISO Grifo Can Am 1971.

The GS is a family car manufactured and marketed by Citroën for model years 1970-1986 in saloon and estate body styles (1970-1980), over a single generation. The GS received a facelift in 1979 and was subsequently marketed as the GSA in hatchback and estate bodystyles (1979-1986).

The GS was voted European Car of the Year for 1971 and was noted as technologically advanced, with class leading comfort, safety and aerodynamics.
The GS filled the gap in Citroën's range, between the 2CV and Ami economy cars and the luxurious DS executive sedan. The DS had moved significantly upmarket from its predecessor the Citroën Traction Avant, and beyond the finances of most French motorists. Leaving this market gap open for fifteen years allowed other manufacturers entry into the most profitable, high volume market segment in France.
The GS met with instant market acceptance and was the largest selling Citroën model for many years. 1,896,742 GS models and 576,757 GSA models were produced in total.

1970 1971 Citroen SM 50th Anniversary - 1971 Citroen SM Espace Heuliez - DS Heritage

The Citroën SM is a high-performance coupé produced by the French manufacturer Citroën from 1970 to 1975. The SM placed third in the 1971 European Car of the Year contest, trailing its stablemate Citroën GS, and won the 1972 Motor Trend Car of the Year award in the U.S.
In 1961, Citroën began work on 'Project S' – a sports variant of the revolutionary Citroën DS. As was customary for the firm, many running concept vehicles were developed, increasingly complex and upmarket from the DS. At some stage in the 9-year project, it evolved from developing a faster variant of the 1955 DS to developing an entirely new, thoroughly engineered car – in terms of engineering effort, a replacement for the high volume DS model. Citroën purchased Maserati in 1968 with the intention of harnessing Maserati's high-performance engine technology to produce a true Gran Turismo car, combining the sophisticated Citroën suspension with a Maserati V6.

1971 Ferrari 365 GTB 4 N.A.R.T. - Movendi

This example of Ferrari 365 GTB 4 was delivered directly to Chinetti Motors N.A.R.T. with works improved performance. This car participated at 1971 Sebring 12 Hours. This model was produced between 1968 and 1973. 1406 examples were produced including road and track versions.

1971 Maserati Bora 4.7 - Jorcar Automoveis Exhibit

Introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 1971, Maserati Bora quickly proved itself to be a compelling supercar alternative to a Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche or De Tomaso. It was the first Maserati road car with a mid-engine. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro at Ital Design, it was produced at 247 examples with left hand drive during 1971 to 1978. 564 Maserati Bora were produced from 1971 to 1980 including 4.9 versions.

Engineered by Giulio Alfieri (Maserati Race Car Engineer) and developed with a monocoque structure and four-wheel independent suspensions, hydraulic brakes, pop up headlamps, the Bora retains the requisite of the Italian Super-car, along with a healthy dose of comfort and luxury. 310 hp 4.719 cc V8 engine, 5-speed ZF transaxle; performance 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in 6,7 seconds and a claimed top speed of 270 kph (167 mph).

One 1972 Maserati Bora 4.7 right hand drive was sold for £161.000 at 2018 RM London Auction Sale

One 1973 Maserati Bora 4.9 was sold for US$ 126.500 at 2016 RM Auction in Monterey California.

One 1973 Maserati Bora 4.9 was sold for US$ 179.200 at 2019 Bonhams Monterey California Auction sale. source RM 2016-2018, Bonhams 2019.

The Porsche 917 is a sports prototype race car developed by German manufacturer Porsche. The 917 gave Porsche its first overall wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1970 and 1971. Powered by the Type 912 flat-12 engine of 4.5, 4.9, or 5 litres, the 917/30 Can-Am variant was capable of a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 2.3 seconds, 0–124 mph (200 km/h) in 5.3 seconds, and a test track top speed of up to 240 mph (390 km/h).

On March 12, 1969, a 917 was displayed at the Geneva Motor Show, painted white with a green nose and a black No. 917. Brief literature on the car detailed a cash price of DM 140,000, approximately £16,000 at period exchange rates, or the price of about ten Porsche 911s. This price did not cover the costs of development.

The presence of the 512M "Sunoco", as well as the Alfa Romeo T33/3 which won Brands Hatch, the Targa Florio and Watkins Glen, forced Porsche to pursue their efforts in research and development: tails of the 917K and the 908/3 were modified with vertical fins, and the 917 LH aerodynamics received further improvements.
In 1971,Pedro Rodriquez had  set a qualifying lap record of 3:13.9, setting him at pole position in his #18 John Wyer Gulf LH car that unfortunately did not finish the race [15]. Another LH car from the Martini team set a top speed record of 241mph before retiring due to engine failure. All in all, 4 separate Le Mans track records were broken that year: Fastest qualifying lap, fastest in-race lap, highest top speed, and longest distance covered. All were set by 917s.

(source Wikipedia)

see also Porsche 917 1969 1971

Between 1970 and 1975 Carrozzeria FRUA came up with a new type of coachwork, initially aimed at at vehicles with a rear mid-engine , but once adjusted, it would later be just as suitable to use for dressing vehicles with yraditional mechanic layouts.

FRUA produced a very slim body, with a thin grille, pop-up headlightsand a side which, from the very top of the greenhouse down to the tail, was joined by a decorative element in metal plating with six slits which marked the end of the third volume box at the rear.

With the perspective of a possible artisan production of the model, it went by by the name Hispano Aleman Vizcaya and it was introduced to the public in Spring 1971. Only one example was produced.

The design of this agile berlinetta was later re-proposed, in a slightly larger size version as the Citroen SM, without any variations in styling having been provided in order to highlight the inverted position of the engine compared to the Hispano Aleman: the redefinition of the connexion between the greenhouse and the tail with a simple metal strip was the most visible element between the two models.

Two more coupe models were made starting from this base and similar styling, that is an Audi in 1974 and a BMW in 1976. (source Pietro Frua Maestro Designer - Libreria Automotoclub storico italiano Torino)

1972 Citroen Camargue by Bertone - ASI Bertone

1972 Lamborghini Miura SV Split Sump - Lukas Huni and 1973 Lamborghini Miura SVJ - Lamborghini Storico

The Lamborghini Miura's first public appearance occurred at 1965 Turin Motor Show; there was only a steel monocoque chassis structure with operating components and that is quite unique a fact in car history.

The engine was from the Lamborghini 400 GT, a 4 litre V12 but it was mounted in transverse orientation just in front of the rear axle. This central position was intended to optimize the weight distribution. The 5 speed ZF gearbox was installed under the engine. The position of the engine transmission allowed for a small luggage compartment while maintained a limited overall length. Let us remember that, at the time, only British Motor Corporation adopted such a layout and it was for the Mini sedan launched in 1958 with a small four cylinder engine placed at the front end. The evolotion on the track has always been showing the trends for exclusive GT cars; endurance racing cars with gradual change from front engine rear wheel drive to rear engine rear wheel drive , illustrated by the Ford GT40, have certainly had a clear influence on the layout selected for the Lamborghini Miura.

see also Lamborghini Miura 1966 1972 --Lamborghini Miura SVJ 1972 -- Lamborghini Miura SV 1971 -

1974 MATRA SIMCA MS 670 B Le Mans 1974 Winner - Pescarolo Racing

When Matra entered the automobile racing scene in 1965, its CEO Jean Luc Lagardere declared that his company will win in Formula One as well at Le Mans 24 Hours.

In 1972 Matra won Le Mans 24 Hours with Henri Pescarolo and Graham Hill at the wheel.

In 1974 in a fierce competition with Ferrari, the Matra 670B won with Henri Pescarolo and Gerard Larousse at the wheel. The Matra 670B was powered by a 2.993 cc 490 hp four overhead camshaft V12 engine. The weight was 675 kg and claimed top speed was 350 kph (217 mph)

In the late 1960s, Ferrucio Lamborghini realized that his company required a competitive counterpoint to Porsche's 911 and Ferrari's Dino 246, and a less expensive alternative to the sensational Miura or the big Espada. Using a 2+2 configuration, offering rear seats that the rivals lacked, the car would also have a more powerful V8 engine, as well as being designed by Marcello Gandini and shaped by Bertone. Bob Wallace, the mechanical genius who had helped tune other Lamborghini suspension, had a hand in tweaking the four wheel independant McPherson strut suspension, which helped contribute to the Urraco's outstanding road holding.

The Lamborghini Urraco was first introduced at 1970 Turin Motor Show simultaneously on Bertone and Lamborghini exhibits. A Lamborghini P250 was produced in 520 units between 1973 and 1976 while the P300 was produced from 1973 to 1979 in 776 examples. Technical specification for the Urraco P300 are 265 hp 2.996 cc single overhead cam V8 engine transversally mounted with five speed manual transmission.

One 1976 Lamborghini Urraco P300 was sold for US$ 57.750 at 2013 RM Monterey Auction Sale (source RM 2013)

1976 Ferrari 308 GTB Rainbow by Bertone - ASI Bertone

After the 308 GT4 model, previously made by Nuccio, Bertone threw himself into redesigning the same chassis. His endeavour resulted in the futuristic Rainbow, a model with a particular design: a roof which slid down behind the backrests of the rear seats. This model is compact and streamlined, very segmented, and deliberately disharmonious in some sections: it's perfectly clean cut and truly reminiscent of the past. The Rainbow remained a one-off design study.

Jean Rondeau developed the Inaltera Endurance racing car between 1976 and 1977. He then developed racing cars at his own name and finally won the 1980 Le Mans 24 Hours with the Rondeau M379. This car was further improved and became Rondeau M379C that was run at 2nd position by Henri Pescarolo and Patrick Tambay before the engine failed in 1981 event.

Engine DFL Cosworth V8 3300 cc producing 460 hp for a weight of 778 kg. Claimed top speed 350 kph (217 mph).

The BMW 635 CSi Group A was homologated in response to Jaguar XJ-S contender. It was developed by specialist Alpina and Schnitzer and run by private team. In this case the car was run by Brumm Racing during 1984,1985,1986 seasons.

One 1983 BMW 635 CSi Group A was sold for Euros 297.500 at RM Monaco Auction Sale in 2018. source RM 2018

1984 Chevrolet Corvette Ramarro by Bertone - ASI Bertone

Carrozzeria Bertone has on several occasion presented design concept on American vehicles. The Corvette Ramarro Concept was introduced at the Los Angeles Motor Show in 1984. The project was based on the Corvette ZR1.

see Bertone Corvette Ramarro 1984

1993 Maserati Barchetta - Tridente Classiche

1995 Bugatti EB110 SS Le Mans - 100 Exhibit - 1995 Bugatti EB 110 Super Sport -Bugatti Exhibit

In 1987 Romano Artioli, an Italian Ferrari distributor, decided to recreate the Bugatti car manufacturer. Bugatti was a famous automobile company founded by Ettore Bugatti and that produced luxury and sports racing cars from 1909 to 1947.

Romano Artioli acquired the right for the Bugatti name and prepared a new factory in Campogalliano in northern Italy. A team of specialists, including Ingeniere Paolo Stanzini and designer Marcello Gandini,  was involved in the development of a new supercar.

see Bugatti EB 110 SS 1992 1995

The McLaren F1 was designed by Technical Director Gordon Murray for McLaren Cars. Gordon Murray had accumulated a long experience in designing formula one grand prix car when he strated this project of top performance supercar able to be driven everyday. Ultralight body and structure in carbon composite allows overall weight of 1120 kg.

At the request of several privare racing drivers McLaren prepared a GTR racing version that won 1995 Le Mans 24 Hours (car N°59 Ueno Clinic). The McLaren F1 GTR finished that event in 1st, 3rd, 4th , 5th and 13th overall position. The N°42 Art Car Team BBA finished 13th.

see McLaren F1 1994

This Longtail version of the McLaren F1 GTR run by Gulf Team Davidoff McLaren finished 2nd in 1997 Le Mans 24 Hours race. Engine: 5990 cc 600 hp V12 by BMW

see McLaren F1 1994

The Nissan R390 GT1 was a racing car built in Atsugi, Japan. It was designed primarily to gain a suitable racing entry in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1997 and 1998. It was built to race under the grand touring style rules, requiring a homologated road version to be built. Therefore, the R390 was built originally as road car, then a racing version of the car was developed afterwards. Only one R390 road car was ever built.
The NISSAN VRH35L twin-turbocharged V8 engine used in the R390 GT1.The engine produces 650 hp at 6.800 rpm and is linked to an XTRAC Sequential 6-speed gearbox. This car exhibired by Ascott Collection finished 5th at 1998 Le Mans 24 Hours. (source Wikipedia)

1998 Porsche 993 GT2 Art Car by Wolinski & Philippo - Mechanic Modern and Classic

AUDI Chassis 405's first outing was with the Works Audi Sport Team Joest at the Le Mans Test in April where the R8 clocked the quickest time during the test. The AUDI Chassis 405 achieved a pole position , fastest lal and 2nd position overall in the 2000 Le Mans 24 Hours, driven by Alan Mc Nish, Stephane Ortelli and Laurent Aiello. After the Le Mans event, Audi Team Joest handed chassis 405 to Audi Sport North America.

Developed for the 2000 Le Mans 24 Hours, the new Audi R8 was designed in house by Wolfgang Appel and Michael Pfadenhauer. Built by Dallara, the R8 is powered by a 3,6 Litre V8 twin turbo unit producing 600 hp was very successful at Le Mans and in ALMS, scoring 1st and 2nd on the opening race at Sebring as well as 1st, 2nd and 3rd places in Le Mans event.

2001 Ferrari 550 GTS Prodrive -RM Sotheby and Ferrari 550 Maranello - FISKENS

In 2004, Maserati returned to top level motorsport, entering the FIA GT Championship with its MC12GT1. The car was an immediate success, and in only its second season , claimedthe FIA GT Manufacturer'sCup, scoring almost double the championship points of the nearest competitor.

The MC12 GT1 race car was powered by a 6.0 litre naturally aspirated V12 engine, which, due to regulations, was fitted with an air restrictor, resulting in an impressive 580 hp. Six FIA GT Championships, two FIA GT Constructors'Championship, six Drivers's Championships and no less than forty race victories followed.

MC12 Versione Corsa - Having witnessed such a domination, Maserati favoured clients were offered the opportunity to buy one of only twelve MC12 Versione Corsa. This car is a direct development of the MC12 GT1 and now void of air restrictors, the race-derived engine produced 745 hp at 8.000 rpm - more than 110 hp more than the MC12 Stradale and 150 hp more than the MC12 GT1 race car.

2010 Peugeot EX1 - Aventure Peugeot

2013 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse - Movendi Exhibit -and 2015 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport - Bugatti Exhibit

Only 93 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse have been produced. This 2013 example exhibited by Movendi has only 10.571 km since new and has the color scheme like the car used for the speed record for street legal car. see also 2010 Landspeed World record Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport - 431 kph (268 mph) as well as Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse 2013 Roadster World Speed Record

The blue car is Albert Spiess collection's 2015 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Type 35 Edition exhibited by Bugatti. 8 Litre 4 turbo 1.001 hp 16 cylinder engine with 1250 Nm between 2200 and 5500 rpm. Top speed 407 kph (253mph). Standing start 0-100 kph (62 mph) in less than 2,7 seconds. Carbon fibre composite structure.

In today’s fast-morphing automobile industry, the men and women at DS Automobiles were tasked with bringing to life their dreams for the car of tomorrow while sharing their automobile passion, uncurbed by predetermined constraints.
The fruit of that passionate, unfettered journey is DS X E-TENSE.*

Their vision for 2035 is very different from the current, near-obsessional quest for characterless mobility. Instead, the designers at DS sought to blend the benefits of advanced technology with a large measure of poetic creativity. Their answer explores how customers who have no qualms about indulging themselves and how they might perceive the notion of a luxurious French style eighteen years hence, however diverse their needs.

The cockpit is accessed by an Elytre door that is trimmed with a carbon fibre/leather weave. Inevitably, the eyes are drawn to the pyramidal architecture of the single seat, which adapts perfectly to the driver’s build like the fitted seats seen in motor racing, while its reclined position helps to keep the car’s centre of gravity low.

DS X E-TENSE’s asymmetric architecture provides distinct ambiences left and right. Climb into the cocoon part of the interior via the gullwing door and the driver, alone or accompanied, becomes a passenger. This asymmetric layout frees up a different type of space underneath the clear glass canopy, with the passenger enclosed in a sensuous capsule, snug in a ventilated. An additional seat even makes it possible to travel three-up.

Located within the front wheels, the two motors selected as the source of the all-electric DS X E-TENSE’s power provide unrivalled response. For road use, peak power stands at 400kW (540 horsepower), a figure that rises to 1,000kW (1,360 horsepower) in ‘circuit’ mode which allows the driver to savour the exquisite performance of the suspension engineered by DS Performance, the technical team behind DS’s Formula E programme. The carbon fibre chassis sits on innovative springs and torsion bars, while traction, grip and deceleration is controlled by an advanced active system conceived to optimise performance, whatever the type of road surface.

Sold from 1894, the Benz 'Velo' marked a real milestone in automotive history, as it was the first car to go into series production. From 1898, a 'Comfortable' version was offered, which could transport four passengers, thanks to its solid axles with a wider track. The power developed by the single-cylinder Benz engine steadily increased, reaching 3.5 HP when production ended in 1902.

It is thought that the model presented, the famous 'Comfortable' version, was delivered new in Paris; then, when her parents died, its previous owner had it moved to her country house, to the north of Rennes. It was there, at the end of the 1930s, that Mr. Piel discovered it as he was cycling to his place of study. In 1953, when he had become an agent for Citroën, he went to see the owner, accompanied by the local priest to vouch for his good character. She agreed to sell it to him for 4000 francs, as the receipt dated 4 September which comes with the car confirms. She made him promise to keep the car forever, which he did, even when the Schlumpf brothers offered to swap it for a Mercedes 300 SL 'Gullwing' at the end of the 1960s! (source Artcurial)

see Benz Velo 1894 1902

The Murcielago is the first new Lamborghini developed under AUDI management. The 6.2 Litre V12 derived from the Diablo powertrain produces 580 hp. The Lamborghini Murcielago has all wheel drive powertrain. 3.066 examples shall be produced between 2002 and 2006.

This Murcielago, with 28.800 km from new, is in beautiful condition in its metallic grey paint, "Grigio Antares". Its black leather interior is in excellent shape as well. Its 6.2L V12 develops 580hp and is paired to a manual gearbox, allowing the car to exceed 330km/h with a generous torque. The car is fitted with a magnificent Bertoli exhaust system and second generation tail lights.