For the 24-hour race of Le Mans, Franco Sbarro has created an open version of the Renault Espace: the Sbarro Renault Espider. It is intended for famous racing drivers and show business notorieties. Source: www.classicdriver.com Images Source: Renault

The 1998 Pontiac Montana Thunder Concept was both a minivan and sport utility vehicle prototype. A 225hp 4.0-liter V6 engine powered it. Source: https://carsthatnevermadeitetc.tumblr.com/post/164069080240/pontiac-montana-thunder-concept-1998-a Images Source: General Motors Corp.

On January 4, 1998, when the engineers at Chrysler designed the Plymouth Pronto Spyder, a concept car unveiled at the 1998 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, they tailored it for a cost-savvy consumer who "wanted to have some fun," according to John Herlitz, vice president of production and design for Chrysler. One of the challenges in keeping the Spyder affordable was lowering manufacturing costs yet providing quality where customers wanted it. The Chrysler folks accomplished this by borrowing material from Spyder's cousin, the Plymouth Pronto, which was displayed at the 1997 NAIAS. Chrysler's Composite Concept Vehicle was shown at the 1997 Frankfurt Motor Show. The result was to spend less on building materials and more on the engine and stylistic details. The plastic used on these concept vehicles is called polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and is the same material used to make plastic drinking bottles that store soda or spring water. The introduction of PET technology in the automobile industry can reduce manufacturing costs by 80 percent, leaving a chunk of money for things like … an excellent supercharged engine. Housing a mid-mounted 2.4-liter dual overhead cam transverse engine with 225 horsepower, the car is designed to drive like an exotic sports racer with a low center of gravity. The Spyder is also equipped with 18-inch cast-aluminum wheels, 225/40R18 Goodyear tires, and a 5-speed manual transmission. Moving away from the boxy car look, this aerodynamic convertible is modeled after classic sportscars of the 50s and 60s, incorporating chrome accents and a plastic tortoiseshell steering wheel rim reminiscent of the wood trim on cars of yesteryear. The Platinum Silver concept car also sported an aircraft-inspired windshield, lightweight drilled pedals, and a tubular, low-slung fuselage. Source: Spyder Snares Curious Flies at NAIAS - www.edmunds.com Images Source: Chrysler Corporation

The Peugeot Crisalys V6 is the running prototype of a mid-engined Berlinetta (a wholly unprecedented formula for Peugeot) was exhibited at the 1998 Geneva show. The Peugeot Crysalis V6 is stunning with fleeting and perfectly integrated lines, fluid volumes, and a sloping front end with the mass bunched slightly forward, as though accentuating a natural propensity to spring at the road. The cabin is a bubble in the middle of the car, almost like the cockpit of a fighter plane. Front and rear lighting units, which recall the Peugeot 406 Coupé, express a powerful marque identity. Source: www.classicdriver.com Image Sources: Sbarro; Dingo

The 106 model freshened up Peugeot's line-up, eventually becoming the maker's best-selling car. At its 1998 launch, the hatchback was available in 3 and 5-door variants with a choice of three petrol engines (1.1, 1.4, and 1.6 L) and one 1.9 L Diesel engine. In terms of engineering, the 206 was spared from sharing the older platform of the 106, having been fitted with an entirely new one. Built at the two plants in Mulhouse (France) and Ryton (UK), the 106 quickly attained popularity, mainly due to the car's hot looks, overall reliability, and affordability. Source: https://www.autoevolution.com/cars/peugeot-206-3-doors-1998.html#aeng_peugeot-206-3-doors-1998-11

Targeting a practical and fully functional experimental model, the changes from the production Bravada were limited to realistic add-on features. Incorporating the levels of luxury found in an Aurora into the Bravada was a key goal. Low-profile high-performance tires mounted on 17" wheels gave it a more aggressive stance while improving on-road stability and control. In touch with Oldsmobile"s signature design cues, jewel-like clear lens headlamps, and tail lamps were added along with body-colored door handles and exterior rearview mirrors. Rearview mirrors also had red-orange internal illumination to warn other drivers of an impending turn with an arrow and a stop using a bold diamond. When the transmission is shifted into reverse, this display flashes like a strobe lamp. X-Scape"s supercharged engine delivers 245 horsepower at 4750 rpm and a peak torque of 315 lb-ft at 3000 pm. With the 29 percent gain in power and 26 percent, extra torque. the torque changed production version, trim the Bravada's 0 to 60 mph acceleration time to less than eight seconds. And consistent with Bravada"s upscale SUV mission, all interior materials are premium grade: 18-ounce plush carpeting for the floor and seat-back surfaces, supple harness-grained two-toned leather for seating surfaces, and color-coordinated steering column and steering wheel. There are two individual seats in the rear separated by a center console to complement bucket seats in front. All of the seats except the driver"s bucket fold to create a level load floor for transporting long or especially bulky items. To entertain rear-seat passengers, aVCR is built into the extended-length floor console. Overhead, there"s a 7-inch liquid-crystal monitor that hinges down from the overhead console for viewing taped program material. This system also includes wireless stereo head-phones stowed in the center console, which offers rear passengers the choice of audio material from the video cassette player or the Monsoon sound system. A special shelf, called Cargo Max™, is built into the rear compartment and slides out a full 24-inches on roller tracks to facilitate loading and unloading heavy or bulky parcels toward the forward extremes of Bravada"s spacious cargo hold. A second use for the Cargo Max™ is to provide buffet service for tailgate parties. The third mode aids Saturday shopping; the rear half of the Cargo Max™ contains folding partitions that can be erected to help organize and support several bags of groceries or shopping-mall purchases. The forward half of the shelf is divided into two shallow covered storage bins for securing essential documents, dining ware, or storing small valuables out of sight. Another useful feature on the right side is a lockable storage bin for fairly large items. The bin is 8.5" x 8" x 13" in size. Source: encyclopedia.classicoldsmobile.com Images Source: www.shorey.net

Nissan’s KYXX is a five-door, five-passenger vehicle in the small MPV mold. The concept took about ten months to create. The overall length of the car is 3650 mm (144 in.), width 1680 mm (66 in.), and height 1480 mm (58 in.), with a wheelbase of 2550 mm (100 in.). Nissan put particular effort into providing maximum interior space. The car's exterior and interior were designed in parallel, with teams swapped regularly to maintain overall design identity. The dashboard has a central information pod, and the car is fitted with a satellite navigation system. The steering wheel is of small diameter. This and the rounded look to the interior with the instrument pods create the effect of even greater interior space. The beltline of the car is high and rises to the rear. The vehicle is markedly cab-forward with a short nose. There are six lenses in each headlamp using fiber optics technology. Neon systems are used for the indicators; the taillights use LED technology. Its power unit is a four-cylinder, common-rail turbodiesel to give the car 3.0 L/100 km (78 mpg) fuel economy potential. It uses the development of Nissan’s M-fire combustion system. Source: www.conceptnissan.com Images Source: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

The Eclipse changed its third generation in 1999, closely aping the Mitsubishi SST design study, which debuted at the 1998 North American International Auto Show. It was the first concept vehicle exhibited by Mitsubishi at an auto show in the United States. Source: Wikipedia Images Sources: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation; minkara.carview.co.jp

Collaborating with stylist Garnero, the Maggiora's CityMagg is based on the Fiat Seicento (600) and can be powered by a Fiat 899-cm3 engine converted to burn methane, or it can use an electric motor. The CityMagg Droll is a two-seater with the ability to carry two extra passengers instead of luggage. Its overall length is a mere 2650 mm (104.5 in.), width 1500 mm (59 in.), and height 1650 mm (65 in.). Styling is highly unusual, but the positioning of lights just below the windshield shows some visual cues of the new Fiat Multipla. Sources: www.sae.org; www.wheelsofitaly.com

The domestic car manufacturer AvtoVAZ presented its concept car at the largest motor show in Paris for the first time. Concept cars at car dealerships, motor shows, presentations are not been guests for a long time. For the leaders of the automotive world, the concept is, it seems, a familiar thing, although it is still not ordinary: such a car is like a flag - it is carried in front, they look at it, they equal it. At the same time, it is known that there will be no such machine either in the series or even as a piece. Often such a car is just a shell on wheels or, as the pros call it, a "doll." The doors and the hood cannot be opened; there is no engine, no suspension, or interior inside. But the exterior seems to be from the future. In such cases, firms sometimes present the concept as a kind of work of art, an achievement of design, demonstrating their creative capabilities. The purpose of the demonstration is to probe public opinion, get an idea of ​​how the public and competitors will react to new ideas, and solve the eternal problem later - to be or not to be? It happens that the concept is prepared as a complete working car - sit down and drive. But this, as they say, is the upper class - not many firms can do this. Often in such cases, an exhibit with the assertiveness of a pioneer pushes the place, indicating to other companies that it is not worth getting in here - they say, they are late. Further, the idea is intensively developed, and the concept gives rise to a new model range. Our car factories have never put such markers before - and why would they? VAZ employees were the first to accept these rules and rolled out their concept in Paris - a "live" electric car with an unusual name for the Volga shores, "Rapan." The goals and objectives for them were determined at the top - in the "authorities." But times, thank God, are changing - the time has come to make our way and live according to the world canons. This is a demonstration of the technical and scientific potential of VAZ, its design capabilities, forward-looking thinking, and, finally (to spite the enemies), the stable state of the enterprise, which can be dealt with, despite all the shocks of the Russian economy. It seems that ours in Paris succeeded in much of what was planned. Togliatti residents, not devoid of professional ambitions, tried to solve complex problems. And they deserved the attention of the public, and the press did not pass by. VAZ already had experience in demonstrating a concept car, but very modest. At the Moscow show this year at the plant's stand, there was an unusual "Lada-Oka-2". But that was one hundred percent "doll." "Rapan" - the second concept of VAZ - marks a noticeable leap forward. The main thing in it is the exterior, unusual and mesmerizing, although there is something to see inside - the original interior corresponding to the external appearance. A curious person can sit in the concept and feel himself in the future. A specialist can appreciate the visibility, the convenience of the location of all parts, layout solutions. Rapan "Rapan" is a riding dummy. He drove onto the Paris podium on his own. The drive and transmission in it are from the electric "Oka," already well-known in Europe - the winner in the international competition of electric vehicles. The Rapan has an electric motor, as in the Oka, the drive wheels are also front in front. This surprise was prepared in Togliatti in advance. In 1995, a small creative group, the backbone of designers Vladimir Pleschanov, Valentina Novikova, and Ilya Zharkov, took up this project. The authors concluded that even a small car should be spacious, cozy, and comfortable. Large round doors were made sliding, and the roof with an opening hatch was made transparently. The front seats are rotating; the rear ones are movable with such a wide range that a person of average height can almost straighten his legs in the extreme position. However, in this case, the seats occupy the entire luggage compartment. The floor is flat, without protruding thresholds. Under it, inside the machine's base, is a battery pack that does not require maintenance (except for charging) during operation. This provides an almost perfect weight distribution (50% front, 50 rear) and a low center of gravity. In order not to interfere with the entry (exit) of the driver, the steering column itself folds back to a vertical position when the left door is opened. Unusually, the instruments, having got along with the airbag, are concentrated inside the steering wheel, and the buttons and levers are around it in a circle. Any mechanism can be turned on without taking your hands off the steering wheel - this is very convenient. An electric car, of course, does not have a gear lever. The view forward and to the sides is excellent - the road is visible right in front of the car. Parking on it and squeezing into narrow places on the street is as easy as shelling pears. It seems that the "dish" from "Rapana," cooked on a VAZ for the Parisian table, was to the taste of the French. After all, they are hungry for all kinds of seafood. In any case, the responses from the "tasters" were more than favorable. We will not hide it; it is very flattering that our car was not where "bread and kvass" are in the world car menu but the category of gourmet snacks. This article is translated from Russian to English from the following source: «ЧУДО МОРСКОЕ РОДИЛОСЬ В... ТОЛЬЯТТИ» (Сергей Мишин) - Журнал «За рулем», №11 1998 Images Source: АВТОВАЗ; Фото Владимира Демченко

Kia’s future minivan concept is the Genesis, which was given an FUV (Family Utility Vehicle) acronym. The vehicle features a pair of huge power-operated gull-wing doors for both front- and rear-seat occupants, six of whom may be accommodated in comfort. Among Kia’s novel ideas incorporated in the vehicle is an "air jet wiper." Multiple nozzles installed in the base of the windshield blow away raindrops with powerful bursts of pressurized air. The Genesis is propelled by a 3.5-L V6 and electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission provided by the company’s parent, Hyundai. The vehicle measures 4778 mm (188 in) long and has a mass of 1650 kg (3640 lb). Source: www.conceptcars.it Images Source: Mario Buonocunto Concept Cars Page

The Frankfurt Design Centre spent about three years (from 1996) and approximately 643,000 to develop the EURO-1. The open-top, 2-seat roadster is a classic sports car with 6-speed transmission. Aimed at the European market, the mid-engine EURO-1 has rear-wheel drive and a 2.0 beta power plant. The tailpipe is positioned in the middle, giving the rear a solid triangular look. The EURO-1 measures 3,725mm long, 1,760mm wide, and 1,150mm high, and the wheelbase is 2,500mm. The platform is a honeycomb-sandwich structure of carbon fiber and epoxy material, so the main chassis weighs only 50 kilograms. The platform is light but highly rigid. The driver shifts the gears of the 6-speed semi-automatic transmission by twisting on a lever attached to the steering wheel rim. Some of the gauges are placed on the door trim on the driver's side. Source: Hyundai

The Hyundai Avatar, a show car now appearing at major auto shows, offers a look at what Hyundai Motor America sees as major styling trends for the most popular type of car in America, the mid-size sedan. “Sedan owners are looking for safety, security, good styling, and a higher level of performance, but all of this must be in a package that is eminently practical,” says Hyundai Product Planning Manager Jim Park. “The Avatar is a vehicle that is mechanically sophisticated and makes a strong styling statement, but within the bounds of what practical-minded owners expect,” he states. The Avatar stands out because of the strong character lines over the front and rear wheel openings. While more subdued than in the Hyundai Tiburon, these character lines give the car a family resemblance to its sportier sibling. Hyundai designers feel that mid-size sedan buyers, while concerned about practicality and still seeking relatively conservative styling, are beginning to seek out vehicles that have more personality than in past years. Thus, design elements such as these character lines, which give the Avatar a more aggressive appearance than the typical sedan of today, will be a trend that will be more popular in the future. In line with the trend toward more distinctive sedans, the Avatar has a dramatic frontal look, with large headlights pushed to the vehicle's corners, emphasizing the car’s size and presence. The bright, bold vertical bar grille highlights the car's front, with the lines of the hood flowing smoothly into the bumper while focusing the eye on the dominant grille. The car is slightly larger in interior and exterior dimensions than Hyundai’s current mid-size sedan, the Sonata. The five-spoke alloy wheels of the Avatar have a subtle shaping along the inside circumference. The understated twist in this area adds a sense of motion even when the car is standing still. At the rear of the Avatar, a high trunk lid serves as a visual cue to the spacious trunk underneath. The rise up at the back end of the trunk provides the look of a rear spoiler, in keeping with the overall sporty sedan tone of the vehicle. Large rear tail lamps offer a safety benefit and echo the strong placement of the headlights at the front. Hyundai designers believe that the movement that places top importance on ergonomics in a sedan’s interior will continue to dominate. However, there will be a trend toward placing ergonomics within a more interesting design framework. Inside the Avatar, the front cabin design stems from an architectural approach with a strong horizontal, almost wall-like dashboard divided by a vertical element that holds the radio, heating and air conditioning, and other controls. The interior forms are crisp and distinct, in line with the vehicle’s crisp exterior edges. In terms of vehicle performance, there has been a growing trend toward more mechanically sophisticated automobiles with handling capabilities that were previously found only in upscale, luxury, and sporting sedans. To meet the needs of drivers with higher performance expectations, the Avatar is built on a chassis with a high torsional rigidity, which has several benefits. When combined with the double wishbone-type front suspension, a very stable platform provides the basis for excellent handling. This stability also helps ensure that the fit of various components can be quite precise. The Avatar is powered by a high output V-6 transverse-mounted engine that drives the front wheels through a 32-bit, electronically controlled, four-speed automatic transmission. Braking is done through four-wheel disks with four-channel ABS. In another node to drivers more aware of performance enhancements, the car comes with an electronic traction system. This also helps ensure safety and stability in bad weather. Inside the vehicle has the latest generation “depowered” airbags and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, whose seat belts also feature pre-tensioners. The Avatar was fashioned by a team of designers at the Hyundai California Design Studio, working closely with Hyundai designers in Korea. Source: Hyundai

The Honda MV-99 concept vehicle minivan, introduced in the fall of 1998 as a 1999 model, provides a clear indication of the shape and size of the new production minivan. The one-of-a-kind MV-99—with its front-wheel–drive, V-6 engine, and dual sliding doors—has an interior designed to offer a glimpse into the future when new technologies could turn the common minivan into an executive shuttle and mobile office on wheels. Source: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

The Pregunta debuted at the 1998 Paris Auto Show and the 1999 Geneva Motor Show. In Spanish, PREGUNTA means "question." This car was an original way of questioning the motor world to ask if it is aware of the HEULIEZ GROUP's abilities and possibilities, a European industrial reality. So the PREGUNTA is an aggressive act of defiance that needs to and must succeed in demonstrating the HEULIEZ Group's ability to design and produce a real car and not just a simple exhibition prototype. This one-off was built in 1998 based on the Diablo chassis and mechanicals. According to some, it's an "ugly" car, but I rather like the aggressive styling not present in the Canto. Too bad this design hadn't appeared earlier when Lamborghini was deciding on the new replacement "Super Diablo." From the very first moment, the lines of the PREGUNTA make an impression. Its aerodynamic properties and a deliberately aeronautical design result in a two-seater speedster with sensations of power and dynamism. HEULIEZ has dressed the refined mechanics in an outfit that can be instantly identified. It's one of a kind. It is thus a mixture of technology and extreme shapes where aerodynamic properties and combined with beauty and elegance. A tough, powerful car, the strength of which is natural but not ostentatious, the front of the PREGUNTA reminds you of a sport-prototype vehicle while the back is more like a fighter plane. PREGUNTA gives you the sensation of supersonic flight and does it magnificently; even if the front remains typical of a racing car, a glance at the sides show that they are sculptured and planed down to guide the aerodynamics towards two air inlets that are in the shape of a streamline jet engine. As far as the rear end is concerned, although it is very shapely, the finish is sharp. Inside, two distinct areas can be observed: a driving or even piloting side for the driver and a comfortable side for the passenger. Once again, the aeronautical inspiration is visible, including in the materials and the upholstery, in an attempt to rigorously respect the main mission of the PREGUNTA: to go like the wind. The PREGUNTA equipment uses the latest devices, particularly the formula-1-type dashboard by Magnetti-Marelli, the Cristine navigational aid by BCI, the CD stereo equipment by Alpine who also supplies the screens for the rearview system, the 4-point self-winding seat belts by Schrott, the fiber optical atmospheric lighting by DGA and the steering wheel by Classic Board. It is thus a mixture of technology and extreme shapes where aerodynamic properties are combined with beauty and elegance. Source: www.lamborghiniregistry.com Images Sources: leroux.andre.free.fr; www.autodrome.fr; Heuliez

The Turing Ka, a 4-door, 4-seater concept car based on the successful Ford Ka, is unveiled on the Ghia stand at the Turin International Motor Show. "Ka has an extremely inspirational and thought-provoking design. You really feel a passion for Ka and want to take the concept into new territories and different roles, to build on its success. That is exactly what we have done here," said the head of Ghia, Filippo Sapino. The Turing Ka has been designed as a sophisticated sports wagon, not only for urban driving but also for long-distance touring. The stretched Ka platform uses many carry-over body parts, including the tailgate and most of the roof. Wide wheel arches accommodate 17" racing wheels with low-profile 205/40 tires, and the exhaust now exits at the center. Turing Ka is fitted with the 1.7-litre 125 PS Zetec SE engine normally found in the Ford Puma, which powers to a top speed of 203 km/h. Powerful 4-wheel disc brakes complete the performance credentials. Puma and Ka are both built on the acclaimed Fiesta chassis, and the appearance of the Turing Ka underlines once more the variety of vehicles, each with very different character, which can be developed from the right common platform. The new tailored interior design reflects the freshness of Ka but adds deep bucket seats finished in dark blue and tan leather and wild boar suede to underline its sporting character. A complete set of soft luggage makes most of Turin Ka's luggage space. Outside, the striking Zinc Yellow paintwork contrasts with titanium-grey bumpers. "There is a strong visual link to Ka - we have just allowed ourselves to explore one dimension of its character. The result is a Ka on steroids," said Filippo Sapino. "Ford have now asked us to examine other concepts, also based on Ka, which will fulfill different needs." Source: Ford

Libre was a small, four-passenger convertible built off of Ford’s European B-platform. Sharply angled windshield, clean sheet body surfaces, and quad-doors were design highlights. A 1.25-liter Sigma engine mated to a five-speed manual supplied power. Making its debut at the Chicago Auto Show in 1998, the Ford Libre Concept was another Ford approach to using Fiesta architecture to create a stunning, open-top sports car. The Libre Concept featured a rear-hinged second door to allow access to the rear seating. It was finished in red with a cream leather interior. The exterior design featured Ford’s New Edge design language, with teardrop-shaped headlamps and a large lower front grille. It was fitted with cast alloy wheels in a five-spoke design with 17-inch Pirelli P-Zero tires. Body-color treatments are carried through to the vehicle's interior, contrasting nicely with the cream-colored materials. Source: Ford Media Site; www.chicagoautoshow.com Images Source: Ford Motor Company

In 1998 Ford contacted the German designer, Luigi Colani, to make a more aggressive variant of the Ford Ka presented at the Essen Motor Show. The car was distinguished from the original model by the more aggressive aerodynamic body kit and the new Schmidt Revolution alloy wheels. The engine was equipped with a four-cylinder Ford Endura-E 1.2 8V managed by a five-speed manual gearbox and combined with front-wheel drive. Able to generate the power of 60 hp with 105 Nm of torque, the propulsion unit was able to push the Ka Colani up to the maximum speed of 158 km/h with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 15.1 seconds. Incredibly the public was impressed by this version, and it was approved the realization of 200 specimens that can be purchased from the Cologne R&S Mobile dealer. Source: https://drivetribe.com/p/in-1998-luigi-colani-presented-CVoUYr2pRvymeEWJfOj2fg?iid=e35I61wQSsaOKHpMGvfiWA Images Source: Colani Design

The first-generation Ford Focus was one of the stars of mass production cars in the 1990s and 2000s. When it replaced the old and tired Escort in 1998, it shocked us with a striking new design, clever packaging, and class-beating dynamics. It was so much better than any generations of Escort ever done. From that moment, I knew it would become a classic in the future. Not long later, it became the first car to win the European COTY and North American COTY awards at the same time. It was a real "World Car." If the name Escort represented conservative thinking, then Focus represented a revolution. This started from its New Edge design. For decades, car stylists couldn't find ways to make a sporty-looking car spacious or vice versa. They were two contradicting elements in car design. However, the stylists of Ford succeeded in applying its New Edge theme – having already tested in Ka, Puma, and Cougar – to gel the two elements together. Look at its profile; it was a volume-optimizing shape. What distracted your attention from this shape were the coupe-like side windows, which flowed smoothly towards the base of the D-pillars rather than following the roofline like conventional cars. This would have revealed bulky D-pillars, but its designers were clever to cover them with eye-catching triangular-shaped rear lights. The overall effect was very graphical. New Edge made very good use of light reflection to amplify the subtle changes of surface curvature to deliver a sporty perception. This can be seen from the crest lines at both sides and the tailgate, as well as the large wheel arches. In my eyes, there were only two car designs in the 1990s truly innovative. One was the original Audi TT; another was this one. The Focus was equally innovative in suspension design. While the strut suspensions up front were conventional, at the rear, it introduced a new kind of multilink independent design called "Control Blade Suspension." It used a large trailing arm made of pressed steel and incorporated a hub carrier to replace two longitudinal rods and the expensive cast knuckle. This achieved the multilink's control at relatively little cost. On the road, Focus won many praises from the motoring press for excellent handling and ride. Its steering received similar admiration for precision and feel. Even a decade later today, we still struggle to find a family hatch delivering as much fun in pure driving terms. Source: www.autozine.org Images Source: Ford

"Multipla" is a time-honored name for Fiat. The company made an adorable microvan by that name in the '50s and '60s, based on the Fiat 600. The Multipla that appeared in 1998 was anything but adorable. With its strange high-beam lenses situated at the bottom of the A-pillars (base of the windshield), the Multipla looked like it had several sets of eyes, like an irradiated tadpole. It had this weird proboscis out front, and a bulky, glass cabin in back, and the whole thing was situated on dwarfish wheels. I rented one of these in Europe, and it worked beautifully, but it was just so tragic to look at. The Multipla (and the Aztek and the Consulier GTP) reminds us that cars cannot just work beautifully. They have to be beautiful. At least they can't look like this. Source: The 50 Worst Cars of All Time - www.time.com

From Fioravanti comes a Gran Turismo concept for the year 2000, dedicated to the Prancing Horse: the F100 salutes the centenary of Enzo Ferrari's birth. A compact, high-performance engine - such as a V 10 - for a vehicle with outer measurements makes it smaller, lighter, and easier to drive than the huge supercars we have become accustomed to seeing in recent years. A semi-automatic gearbox and the F1-type paddle selector mounted behind the steering wheel were natural choices here. The aim is to provide relaxed driving conditions, permitting concentration to focus on the unique pleasures of fast driving. The spontaneous hallmark of history: the outer skin bears one of the classic design themes associated with the Prancing Horse cars - the famous Ferrari "wave," that plastic, almost sculpted shape. Seen here as a claw mark, it starts at the nose, spreading and developing three-dimensionally around the whole of the car's perimeter. The search for lightness moved in two directions: structure and components. The engine air intakes, for example, have been lodged in the upper part of the roof panel, a location that takes advantage of the boxed roof structure as well as improving rear vision. As far as components are concerned, the front and rear neon light clusters, for example, are styled with the classic Ferrari designs in mind but are built to a unique, lighter specification. The wheels were the subject of a special design project too. The Fergat company, the European leader in steel wheel design and production, worked with Fioravanti to match innovative design with cutting-edge technology. New steels and high resistance levels - with load limits of over 600 MPA -sophisticated design using computer-generated simulations, further deformity, and assembly techniques have all made it possible to conceive and engineer steel wheels of quite stunning beauty at a significantly reduced weight. In addition, the forging requirements themselves lead engineers to a naturally more aerodynamic wheel. Cabin design hinges on a philosophy of relaxed driving, achieved here in particular by choice of the Ferrari F1 gear-selector and the two-pedal action -magical, gradual, equilibrium. The design of the dash develops from the two selector paddles behind the wheel, and almost all the controls are located on the wheel itself. The support provided by the lower part of the seats maintains a relaxed muscle position all along the legs. In the case of the driver, practically guides the feet onto the accelerator and brake pedals, almost like an F1 car. The speed of this kind of F1 gear-selector means the driver must view and collate cockpit information faster and more immediately, and so traditional-type instrumentation is no longer suitable. It is replaced here by an innovative type of digital-analog instrumentation with simple but highly effective graphics. Source: www.fioravanti.it

The second series in the ESX line completed testing in 1998 and made several improvements on its predecessor. The ESX2 was dubbed a "mybrid" (mild hybrid) because its reliance on electrical power was not highly dependent on the battery. This system contained two motors that worked in parallel: a 1.5 L 74 bhp direct-injection diesel and a 20 bhp AC-induction electric motor. The main power came from the diesel engine. The electric motor charged the batteries, added to the acceleration, and powered the reverse gear. Coupled with the powertrains were a 5-speed electronically shifted manual transmission, a nickel-metal hydride battery pack, and controlling equipment which included components from the Patriot hybrid race-car program. Chrysler fit the car with an unpainted thermoplastic body attached to an aluminum frame to cut down on cost and weight. The shape had a low aerodynamic drag. Inside, trim was constructed of carbon fiber, and the seats were built from a tube frame—the final cost: only $15,000 more than a regular Intrepid, or about $37,000. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dodge_Intrepid_ESX Images Source: Dodge

At the 1998 New Delhi Auto Expo, the public saw the premiere of the Arya (a 4x4 station wagon on the Tata Sierra chassis; four such vehicles have been built till now). Source: car-cat.com

In 1998, Sbarro showed his Calao beach car, based on the Berlingo. Every now and then, fortunately, someone remembers that the car can also be fun. It happened with the Mini Moke. Then the Citroen Mehari. It is now the turn of the Citroen Berlingo "Calao", in the interpretation of the students from Espera Sbarro in Portarlier. Source: www.classicdriver.com Images Source: Sbarro

First shown at the October 1998 Paris Auto Show, the C3 Lumiere concept utilized various "pointed" styling cues, from the wheels to the taillights and mirrors. With an ocean pearl blue paint scheme with light gray accents, the Lumiere was the gateway to the C3 production car of 2002. The interior was most unique, with a retractable analog speedometer/tachometer on the top of the dashboard, a dial showing the car's running functions (windshield wipers, lights, etc.), and a manual gear shift lever mounted vertically on the point of the protruding dashboard console. The theme of hexagons inside circles was carried onto the door speakers and ventilation ducts. Source: www.citroenet.org.uk Images Sources: CITROEN; Mario Buonocunto Concept Cars Page

During the development of the C3, a cabriolet was proposed. Citroën built this C3-Air concept car in 1998, which led to the "not a concept car" Pluriel, which was shown in 1999 and eventually went into production with substantial changes as the C3 Pluriel in 2003. Source: www.citroenet.org.uk Images Source: CITROEN

Look familiar? Strip away the lardy curves of Chrysler's 2001 PT Cruiser, and this is what you find: the idea was distilled down to its essence and served up in 1997 as the Plymouth Pronto Concept. The Pronto Concept spawned another concept, the Plymouth Pronto Cruizer, which begat Chrysler's PT Cruiser. Chrysler settled on a more Rubenesque shape as a riposte to the Beetle and BMW's MINI. Source: Simon Hacker/MSN Cars Images Source: Chrysler

Echoing show cars from the 1950s by Virgil Exner and his creative crew, the classy Chrysler Chronos cruised on massive 20-inch front and 21-inch rear tires. A 350 horsepower, 6.0-liter V-10 engine purred under the long, low hood and came mated to a 4-speed automatic gearbox. A modified Dodge Viper suspension was used for the Chronos. Built into the handsome Chronos cabin was a cigar humidor, plus, the tortoiseshell and California walnut trim inspired the details used in the cabin of the 2005 Chrysler 300 4-door sedan. Source: www.chicagoautoshow.com Images Source: Concept Car Central, Chrysler Corporation

On January 6, 1998, the Chevrolet presentation at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit was interrupted by two surprise guests: seven-time NASCAR champion Dale Earnhardt and the Tasmanian Devil. Both Earnhardt and Taz seem to be all wound up about Chevy's newest concept car, the Monte Carlo "Intimidator," a race car-inspired vehicle with a modified 3800 Series II V-6 engine that creates 295 horsepower and 280 lbs. of torque. According to Chevy, the Intimidator offers NASCAR wannabes the closest thing to driving a real racecar: aerodynamic details like low-slung front and rear air dams and a decklid spoiler, authentic racing gauges, front and rear Recaro bucket seats with five-point safety restraints, a tubular steel safety cage, an on-board fire suppressor and 17-inch Goodyear racing tires. You know, lots of practical stuff for taking the kids to soccer practice. The car might appeal to kids or adults at heart since Chevy has entered into a partnership with Warner Brothers and will be using the Tasmanian Devil as part of its advertising program. Source: The Car Endorsed by the Devil - Edmunds.com, Inc Images Source: www.auto.com

The Cardi Curara is an extremely rare and distinctive two-seater roadster from Russia, with unique styling incorporating a two-tone contrasting red and silver color scheme. Specs: Engine: BMW V12 Displacement: 5397 cc / 329.3 in³ Power: 243.1 kw / 326.0 bhp @ 5000 rpm Output: 60.4 bhp per litre Torque: 490 nm / 361.4 ft lbs @ 3900 rpm Body/Frame: Steel, Fiberglass and Carbon Fiber Drive: Front Engine / RWD Source: www.cardi.ru

This is a concept multiple-activity vehicle that offers the versatility of a van or sport utility versatility while retaining the comfort, convenience, and safety of a premium family sedan (based on Park Avenue architecture). Signia is taller, somewhat wider, and significantly shorter than Park Avenue. It also has higher seats and roof as well as inset rocker panels for easier passenger access. Cargo space is enhanced by independently folding seats and a powered rear floor that extends 15 inches out the back. Large rear doors with a 90-degree opening range also provide easy cargo access. A hinged, composite-plastic hatch functions as a sunroof and outside cargo carrier and is removable to transport bulky items. Infrared sensors detect objects in the blind spot and trigger warnings displayed in the outside rearview mirrors. The remote keyless entry fob can provide Personal Choice settings for seat positions, climate controls, entertainment sound systems, and the tilt and telescoping steering wheel. The engine is a 240-horsepower supercharged 3800 Series II V-6. An innovative hybrid all-wheel-drive system controls torque based upon wheel speed sensors monitoring traction needs. In front of the driver’s seat are reconfigurable head-up and head-down animated color displays. The color is described as metallic-ochre. Source: www.welovebuicks.com Images Source: www.auto.com

Before creating the 1,000 hp, $1.5m Bugatti Veyron, Volkswagen, the parent of Bugatti, spent nearly ten years developing prototypes worthy of the reintroduction of the great Bugatti name. The 1998 Bugatti EB118 was one such example. Although wrapped in luxo-coupe clothing, this car was a beast, unlike any other car the world had ever seen. Under the hood of the EB118 sat what was then the first 18-cylinder automotive engine in history. The engine was capable of unequaled power and a top speed exceeding 200 mph. Three banks of six cylinders were coupled into a W shape creating 550 BHP. The car had four valves per cylinder (72 total valves) and an all-wheel drive. The interior was luxuriously appointed. Introduced at the Paris Motor Show in 1999, VW had intended to produce the EB118 in limited numbers. Before any production, however, VW needed to complete a factory near the original Bugatti factory in Alsace, France. Source: www.jaylenosgarage.com Images Source: ItalDesign

The Pickster: a dream, a provocation, undoubtedly pure Bertone for its innovative spirit, a new way of looking at the automobile. From the front, the Pickster looks like a charming C-segment saloon. Still, as the gaze travels along the body of the car, the three-quarter view reveals a solution that combines the lines of the coupé or speedster with the idea of the pick-up or utility vehicle. Presented at the 1998 Geneva Motor Show, the Pickster was developed in just three months, with the company pulling out all the stops. It began with the idea of infusing the very American concept of the pick-up with the spirit of a GT. The highly imaginative result presents a revolutionary design with complex surfaces wrapping the wings in a muscular sheath. An aggressive, streamlined frontal view gives it an edgy, sporty feel. Thanks to the spoiler, the tail features a loading space characterized by ground-breaking intuition, which closes off the space and performs an aerodynamic function. Its dimensions are imposing: 480 cm long, an impressive 197 cm wide, and 136 cm high. Its yellow paintwork underlines its originality. The interiors reflect design creativity and all the work that went into the fittings and show the car's originality: leather and aluminum trims, seats with small, fixed cushions but adjustable seat-backs. On the dashboard, the instrumentation is towards the top, with the addition of the screen of the Magneti Marelli navigation system. The fact that Pickster was created in only three months was also thanks to the availability of complete mechanical components, all BMW-produced starting from the engine, a six-cylinder 3.2i 24v BMW Motorsport with an output of 320 hp. The base used was that of the BMW 528, featuring rear suspensions which occupy little space and are perfect for the development of a pick-up. And lastly, the big 21" wheels, with Michelin PAV tires, will go the distance even with a puncture. Source: www.bertone.it Images Source: Carrozzeria Bertone s.p.a.

Acura TL-X prototype gave a glimpse of the next-generation TL sedan, based on the Accord during the 1998 Chicago Auto Show. The engine in the TL-X, a three-liter V-6, would be used in the coming production TL. Source: www.chicagoautoshow.com Image Source: Acura

A pure formal study, the Dardo is a spider with a powerful impact whose source of inspiration was the Alfa Romeo 156, "Car of the Year" 1998. The Dardo was intended to be a homage to a trademark, Alfa Romeo, that incarnates several of the finest qualities of Italian cars: sportiness, imagination, technology, and performance. Alfa Romeo's 156 sedan forms the basis of an intriguing new concept. The Dardo (Dart) spider is "a pure styling exercise with no production prospects," states designer Pininfarina. All the Alfa Romeo spiders from the 1950s to the present day resulted from industrial and styling cooperation with Pininfarina. They include the Giulietta Spider of the 1950s, Duetto of the 1960s (in production for 27 years), and the Alfa Spider of 1994. The Dardo takes the current Spider's aesthetic cues several stages further. It uses Alfa's 2.5-L V6 in a body 4380 mm (173 in.) long, 1709 mm (71 in.) wide, and only 1250 mm (49 in.) high. Its wheelbase is slightly shorter than that of the 156. The shape of the front of the car tapers toward a point to incorporate the traditional Alfa Romeo triangular radiator grille. Its twin headlights were developed jointly with Valeo. The inner light cluster provides a full beam and is surrounded by six small spotlights. Direction indicators comprise thin, amber-colored "neon" bulbs. The styling for the Dardo's flanks also uses a triangular theme, as does the rear. The car incorporates the 156's dashboard with metallic-like leather upholstery used for it and the seats. Pininfarina worked with Sparco to design and build the seats, which have extremely rigid shells using carbon/Kevlar/carbon technology. They have four-point seat belts with a lever release. Sources: pininfarina spa.; www.sae.org Images Source: pininfarina spa.

Launched at the 1998 Turin Motorshow, the Stola Abarth Monotipo does not in the slightest bit look like the Fiat Barchetta, which was used as a base for the project. Penned by ex-Pininfarina designer Aldo Brovarone, the Monotipo was conceived to showcase Stola's craftsmanship rather than a fashion statement. Stola Group's Abarth Monotipo 98 was developed specifically for the Turin Show. Stola's operations cover nine engineering and production businesses, including models, prototypes, dies, molding, welding technology, and body assembly. The Monotipo 98 is a coupe and a technology demonstrator but is not designed for production. Stola collaborated with eight sponsors: CIBA Specialty Chemicals, Brembo, Momo Corse, AG Glasurit, Isoclima, OZ Racing, Goodyear, and Vercar Model. Stola said of CIBA Speciality Chemicals' contribution: "It participated with all materials needed for model and die construction, and for the bodywork details. Regarding the style model, we utilized the BM 5185 table, in our opinion, a material much more effective than traditional clay. This technology allowed for a smooth construction in seven weeks with outstandingly stable characteristics. It proved to be highly useful in the construction of the dies, for which LY5138 was used. For the construction of the particulars involving the body, an epoxy resin of CSC and carbon tissue was chosen. The sturdy yet lightweight characteristics that evolved are the core of the project." Sources: www.stola.it; www.sae.org Image Sources: Stola; www.bernimotori.com

Launched in 1995, the Z3 was the first roadster built in large numbers after a long time. Its predecessor, the Z1, was only produced in 8000 units. Two years and a half after the Z3 roadster stormed the roadster arena, the BMW dared to do something even more outrageous: a shooting-brake based on the Z3. It was a car built by BMW engineers after working hours. Their project impressed the management in such a manner that the vehicle received a green light. The car's front was similar to the roadster, with the same slats on the front fenders which evoked the BMW 507. From the A-pillars to the back, it was a different story. A fixed roof was stretched from the top of the windshield to the back of the car. Since there was no room to make it sloped, it was straight and, right behind the rear wheels, it was dropped with a raked C-pillar. In the back, the tailgate offered access to ample trunk space when considering the size of the car. Inside, the manufacturer didn't try to install unusable tiny rear seats for lower taxes. It just installed a bigger trunk. The front bucket seats were placed lower. Since the car was based on the E36 platform, it shared some components with the 3-Series. It was the same instrument cluster and the same layout for the center stack. Under the hood, the Z3 Coupe was offered exclusively with straight-six engines. The displacement was 2.8-liter between 1998 and 2000, and it was raised to 3.0-liter for the next two years, until 2002. All engine versions were mated as standard to a 5-speed manual. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

This creation was commissioned by two Swiss brothers in 1996, looking to add an inkling of usability to the typically sporty nature synonymous with Aston Martin products. It uses the V8 Coupe as its base and borrows the same 330-horsepower (246-kilowatt) V8 suitable for a top speed of 160 miles per hour (257 kilometers per hour) and a 0 to 60 mph (96 kmh) sprint of fewer than seven seconds. It wears the chassis number SCFCAM2SCTBL79007 and initially left the factory as a stock V8 Coupe before being returned and modified. It’s a rare left-hand drive, automatic, and left the factory in July of 1996. Since then, the Aston Martin Works department has maintained the car meticulously, assuring this rare piece of motoring remains in pristine condition, now going on more than 20 years. The green leather interior matches the British Racing Green found on the body and comes with a smattering of walnut detailing throughout. In 1999, the factory entirely rebuilt the engine, having driven just 5,755 miles (9,263 kilometers). View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

The Ferrari 456GT Venice is a shooting brake design—though not Ferrari’s first—based on the two-door 456 grand touring car. Sporting a 5.5-liter V-12 from the coupe, the Venice separated itself with the roof extension and rear doors, which Pininfarina penned. While Ferrari later produced the FF sporting a liftgate at the rear, the 456GT Venice was ahead of its time when built in the mid-1990s. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

Alfa Romeo introduced the Alfa 145 model at the 1994 Turin Motor Show. Designed to take over the old 33 Series on the mid-size hatchback sector, the new 145 model came in a 3-door configuration and featured an innovative cut-off dashboard. The exterior design was also considered quite edgy, while the platform on which the 145 was based on the same Fiat Tipo. This model received a new Cloverleaf variant in 1996 and replaced all its boxer engines with Twin Spark units a year later. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

The Aston Martin Virage Shooting Brake is a rear-wheel-drive road car, with the motor placed in the front and a three-door estate/station wagon body. It is powered by a naturally aspirated engine of 5.3 litre capacity. This unit features double overhead camshaft valve gear, a 90 degree V 8 cylinder layout, and four valves per cylinder. It produces 330 bhp (335 PS/246 kW) of power at 6000 rpm. The Aston Martin Virage Shooting Brake is claimed to achieve a maximum speed of 245 km/h (152 mph). View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

Subaru of America's 250-horsepower Amadeus concept sport wagon was presented at the 1992 Tokyo Motor Show. The Amadeus was an all-wheel-drive sport wagon based on the exciting Subaru SVX platform and includes the luxury sports coupe's controversial "window-within-a-window" design. Performance and safety features include a five-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel steering, electronic navigation system, heads-up instrument display, distance-monitoring system, and a 3.3- liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine. "We took the Subaru SVX platform, which is the epitome of what we know about building cars, and applied it to one of the most traditional Subaru vehicles: the all-wheel-drive station wagon," explained Chris Wackman, Subaru, vice president marketing. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

The Magnum project was VW’s attempt at a larger capacity, shooting-brake version of its sporty Corrado. Production on that car was limited in its own right, but the original plan for the Magnums, according to sources, was to develop as many as 200 models for the European public. When numbers didn’t add up, Volkswagen pulled the plug on the project in 1991, and Marold was left with two ultra-rare Corrado concepts and zero plan. The vehicles were abandoned by Volkswagen and held by Marold, which eventually put the duo up for public sale. It put out ads for the pair at an astounding asking price of 3.2 million Deutschmarks, or over $2.2 million, which included all the paperwork, technical documents, wind tunnel test results, construction documents, German TÜV road safety appraisals, and even prototype tools. The cars failed to sell and disappeared off the map for some time. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

DP Motorsport's most famous project may have been the Porsche 935 K3 that dominated endurance racing for many years, but they also made one of the most beautiful shooting brakes of all time in the late eighties. In place of the 944's large glass hatchback, DP Motorsport installed a heavily modified squared-off roof from a Volkswagen Passat wagon to make the dp44 Cargo, per Flat Sixes. It's pretty fitting, given that the 944's predecessor, the 924, was a project that got bounced around from Volkswagen to Audi and eventually Porsche. The 944 remained a similarly cross-Volkswagen-Group affair as it was built at Audi's Neckarsulm plant. It's such a well-executed build that it looks like it came from the factory, but no! Porsche did not give us a 944 three-door. Perhaps they should have followed DP Motorsport's lead—again. As Petrolicious notes, people were so enamored with DP Motorsport's slant-nose cars that Porsche decided to make their own. According to Speedhunters, only eight dp44 Cargos were built globally along with a one-off turbocharged 924-based Cargo. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

After production at Reliant ceased, Middlebridge Scimitar Ltd. acquired the manufacturing rights to the Scimitar GTE in June 1987. This company produced a 2.9 L version of the GTE with many modifications and modernizations (over 450), including electronic fuel injection and a five-speed Ford T9 gearbox (with the Ford A4LD 4 speed auto as an option). Middlebridge ever produced only 78 Scimitars before the company went into receivership in 1990. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

The Aston Martin Lagonda is a special car. Just 645 were built over 12 years of production, all sporting genuinely stunning William Towns design. This particular Lagonda, one of 85 fuel-injected Series III examples built, underwent an utterly unique shooting brake conversion in the mid-2000s. According to Sotheby's, this car has had just two owners from new. The first, a Danish man living in Switzerland, optioned the car with a complete cocktail set, a television, picnic tables, and lamb's wool rugs. He kept the car up until 2006 when it was sold to the second owner in Sweden. From there, it was given to Swedish industrial designer Ted Mannerfeldt for its shooting brake conversion. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

In 1987, Porsche decided to stretch out the 928 and make a shooting brake out of it. Called the H50, this 928 featured a lengthened chassis to accommodate more legroom and boot space. Upfront, the V8 was tweaked to give it a monstrous 330bhp, around 100bhp more than the standard 928. Interestingly enough, although this car was made over 30 years ago, it was not unveiled to the world until 2012 at the Pebble Beach Concourse. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

The 1987 Frankfurt Motor Show was a big event for BMW, marking the debut of the 750i powered by Germany’s first post-war 12-cylinder engine, the 3 Series Touring, and the Z1. At this stage, the Z1 was still a prototype, but that didn’t stop one visitor to the BMW stand offering 150,000 Deutschmarks for the privilege of owning a BMW with Gwyneth Paltrow doors. It’ll come as no surprise to discover that BMW refused the offer – not least because the prototype had cost two million Deutschmarks to build. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

Making its debut in 1986, the ‘N13’ Nissan EXA (dubbed Pulsar NX in some markets) wasn’t mechanically remarkable. Far from it - the car was front-engined and front-wheel drive, and in its entry-level form, made a paltry 70bhp from a single-cam GA16i engine. A modest 90bhp from the later 1.6-litre CA16DE N/A inline-four was also available with a CA18DE 1.8 making a more reasonable 130bhp. Production ended in 1990, with the EXA replaced by the considerably less attractive and cutely-styled ‘N14’ NX. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)

This 1986 Honda Accord AeroDeck was sold new in Japan and was recently imported to the US by the selling dealer. Power is provided by a carbureted B18A inline-four paired with a five-speed manual transaxle. The shooting brake bodywork affords a drag coefficient of 0.34 and features two-piece rear windows and a hatch with glass that wraps over the top of the roof. View the World's Largest Shooting Brake Archive Here (Sources Included)