Clearly influenced by aeronautic and rocket design, the amazing GM Firebird was first shown to an astounded public in 1954. Not only did it look like an aircraft but it was even powered by a gas turbine engine. Two successors followed in 1956 and 1958, each a showcase for GM's groundbreaking design and instrument technology.
Heuliez Pregunta (1998)
Engine
Power
Speed
0-60
5.7L V12
530bhp
206mph
4.1sec
This stunning convertible was created by designer Heuliez Torino based on the chassis and engine from the Lamborghini Diablo. This dramatic convertible debuted at the 1998 Paris Auto show as a mobile showcase for Heuliez' design skills. The interior featured an F1 style dashboard and fibre optic lighting.
Honda HSC (2003)
Engine
Power
Speed
0-60
3.5L V6
330bhp
4.5sec
The striking Honda HSC concept was first revealed at the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show as the probable successor to the ageing NSX. The unconventional 'Enzo type' styling divides opinion but the VTEC V6 receives universal praise as one of the finest engines around. Honda are currently swaying towards canceling the project!
Iso Rivolta Varedo (1972)
Engine
Power
Speed
0-60
5.7L V8
325bhp
The Varedo was Iso's attempt to join in the mid-engined supercar craze of the early 70's. The striking Zagato styled bodywork encompassed a mid-mounted 5.7L Ford V8 pumping out a respectable 325bhp. Just the one Varedo was produced due to the demise of the Iso marque following the 1974 oil crisis.
Ital Design Alessandro Volta (2004)
Engine
Power
Speed
0-60
3.3L V6
402bhp
155mph
4.0sec
Named after the famous Italian scientist, the Alessandro Volta was produced in conjunction with car giant Toyota. This hybrid petrol/electric supercar pushes out over 400bhp, giving a claimed 0-60mph dash in just 4 seconds, and all this with fuel consumption of almost 40mpg!
Ital Design Nazca (1991)
Engine
Power
Speed
0-60
5.0L V12
Using a 5 litre BMW powerplant, the Nazca concept was thought by many to be a successor to the BMW M1(also styled by Guigiaro) and could make it all the way to production. Even though that never came to pass, two further evolutions were built. A convertible and a coupe which featured unique gull-wing windows.
Jaguar R Coupe (2001)
Engine
Power
Speed
0-60
The stylish R Coupe is set to be the new look for the next generation of Jaguar cars. Although it's a non-runner, the R Coupe features a myriad of attractive interior styling features such as silver plated switchgear, voice activated controls and LED lighting. The look is completed by the use of enormous 21 wheels at the rear.
Jaguar XJ13 (1966)
Engine
Power
Speed
0-60
5.0L V12
502bhp
180mph
The beautifully styled XJ13 was first conceived for racing, carrying Jaguar's all new mid mounted V12. Although it never raced, it was used for promotional purposes until it was crashed while testing in the early 70's. Now rebuilt, the XJ13 went on to influence modern day Jaguar supercars such as the XJ220.
Jaguar XK180 (1999)
Engine
Power
Speed
0-60
4.0L V8
450bhp
180mph
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of this famous marque, the desirable XK180 acted as a spectacular showcase for Jaguar's Special Vehicles Division. Powered by a 450bhp version of the XKR's supercharged V8, the XK180 was good for 180mph. To the despair of car lovers everywhere, production was never considered.
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