The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The MG B GT Pininfarina one-off.
The MG B GT Pininfarina design from 1964 showcases a fascinating connection between British and Italian automotive design, specifically drawing from the influence of Pininfarina’s work for Alfa Romeo. This design was a proposal for a potential replacement for the MGB and featured styling elements that would later be seen on the iconic Alfa Romeo Duetto Spider, launched the following year. The inspiration for the Duetto Spider, in turn, came from Pininfarina’s earlier Superflow series, known for its aerodynamic shapes and futuristic design cues. When the Alfa Romeo 1750 Spider was introduced in 1969, its rear-end styling also carried echoes of Pininfarina’s earlier work on the MG GT design. This continuity of design language between the MG concept and the Alfa Spider models demonstrates Pininfarina’s influence across different brands and models during that era. Interestingly, the MG B GT concept was designed with the idea of using Hydrolastic suspension, a system recently introduced by BMC (British Motor Corporation) on their 1100 series. The Hydrolastic suspension aimed to provide a smoother, more comfortable ride, and its inclusion in the MG B GT concept highlights the forward-thinking nature of the proposal. However, despite its sleek and modern appearance, the MG B GT Pininfarina design never made it to production, leaving it as a “what if” in the history of British sports cars. Nonetheless, its design DNA lived on through its influence on later, more successful models like the Alfa Romeo Spider.
Discover the remarkable journey of Tom Tjaarda and his role in designing the Fiat 124 Sport Spider. Learn how his work on the 1964 Fiat 124 Rondine prototype bridged the gap from the Corvette Rondine to the iconic Fiat roadster.
The Alfa Romeo Duetto, one of the most iconic roadsters ever produced, represents a confluence of Italian design, engineering prowess, and a unique moment in automotive history. Its design genesis reflects not only the artistic innovation that defined mid-20th century automotive styling but also the commercial and industrial pressures of the era. The car’s journey from conception to international fame is a testament to the creative brilliance of Pininfarina and Alfa Romeo’s bold vision.
