1995 Plymouth Backpack

From wild mid-engine experiments and Italian coachbuilt one-offs to aviation-themed charity cars and record-chasing EVs, the Ford Mustang has spent six decades living a double life: one you see in showrooms, and one that exists in design studios, wind tunnels, and race shops around the world. This article is a complete tour of that hidden history—a chronological guide to Mustang concepts, prototypes, and specials that never made it to mass production but helped shape the cars

The General Motors XP-511 Commuter Car, unveiled in 1969, was one of the most distinctive and unconventional prototypes from GM’s late-1960s experimentation with urban mobility. Also known as the ES-511, the concept was designed by Larry Shinoda—best known for his work on iconic performance cars like the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. With the XP-511, Shinoda turned his attention to something entirely different: creating a compact, efficient city car that could deliver genuine

The General Motors XP-512G, unveiled in 1969, was part of an ambitious series of experimental commuter cars that showcased GM’s forward-thinking approach to efficient urban mobility. The “G” designation identified it as the gasoline-powered variant in the lineup, standing alongside other 512-series concepts that explored electric and hybrid technologies. As an open-top two-seater roadster, the XP-512G represented a blend of lightweight engineering, minimalist design, and prac

The General Motors XP-512H, introduced in 1969, was a remarkable glimpse into the automotive future—one that few could have imagined at the time. As part of a series of four experimental commuter car concepts, the 512H represented GM’s early exploration into hybrid-electric propulsion, decades before such technology became mainstream. The “H” in its name stood for “hybrid,” and the project demonstrated the company’s interest in developing smaller, more efficient vehicles suit

The General Motors TASC4GT, unveiled in 1972, was one of the most striking and imaginative design studies of its era. Created under the direction of GM designer Dick Ruzzin, the TASC4GT—an acronym for Total Automotive System Concept—represented a bold vision of what a future grand tourer or sports coupe could be. Also referred to internally as the GM X-Car, this concept embodied early 1970s optimism for advanced materials, new powertrains, and futuristic forms that broke away

The General Motors Micro CDS-2, introduced in 1990, was an experimental concept that explored the future of compact and efficient urban transportation. Designed by Gérard Gauvry, the CDS-2 embodied GM’s forward-thinking approach to lightweight vehicle engineering during a period when automakers were increasingly focused on fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and urban mobility solutions. Its small size, aerodynamic shape, and advanced engine technology made it a standout in G

The Lamborghini Temerario Super Trofeo Concept represents the Italian automaker’s next step in its motorsport evolution. Revealed in 2025, this prototype previews a new generation of race cars set to debut on track in 2027. Designed with both performance and accessibility in mind, the Temerario is being promoted as an “ideal entry point for those eager to experience the world of GT competition.” It continues Lamborghini’s commitment to nurturing new racing talent while pushin

Coachbuilder Tickford built a limited run of upmarket versions of the original Land Rover. Unlike the bare-bones workhorse, these...

The Ringbrothers Aston Martin DBS “Octavia” is a one-off restomod that reimagines a 1971 British grand tourer as a futuristic Bond car....

The Volkswagen EA48 Prototype, built in 1955, was VW’s first serious attempt at a car smaller than the Beetle. At just 3,380 mm long, it...

The Ice Princess XF58 isn’t a car Studebaker ever made—it’s a fantasy brought to life by custom builder Richard Fletcher in 1987....

The Studebaker Ice Princess XF58 is a one-off custom car built in 1987 by designer Richard Fletcher. His goal was to create a fantasy...