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Body Styles12 April 2024 by Andreas 2390 Viewed

The ‘Linea Tesa’ design by Carrozzeria Boneschi

The origin

During the transition into the 1960s, Carrozzeria Boneschi, in a creative partnership with designer Rodolfo Bonetto, initiated a significant stylistic movement dubbed “Linea Tesa.” This innovative design ethos, as its name suggests, was characterized by its distinct emphasis on sharply defined lines and meticulously crafted cuts, standing in stark contrast to the prevailing design norms of its time. While Carrozzeria Boneschi’s boldness didn’t immediately translate into widespread success, it foreshadowed the stylistic shifts of the subsequent decades, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s.

Rodolfo Bonetto

Rodolfo Bonetto, a high school student, abandoned his career as a jazz drummer to devote himself to design. This passion for him was manifested thanks to his paternal uncle Felice Bonetto, a famous racing driver of the early fifties, who introduced him to the motor world, and so the young Bonetto, began to draw sketches of cars.

Embarking on his career as a self-taught designer, Bonetto first delved into the world of design consultancy at Pininfarina, where he refined his skills from 1951 to 1957. It wasn’t until 1958 that he took the leap into independent design entrepreneurship, establishing his own studio in Milan. However, it was with Carrozzeria Boneschi that Bonetto truly found his creative stride, notably pioneering the design trend known as “Linea Tesa.” This collaboration proved fertile ground for Bonetto’s innovative vision, giving rise to a plethora of iconic models that epitomized this distinctive aesthetic. Additionally, Bonetto’s flair for Linea Tesa design extended beyond his work with Carrozzeria Boneschi, with notable collaborations also taking place with Carrozzeria Viotti, further cementing his influence in shaping the design landscape of his era.

During his long career as a designer he created projects in the most diverse fields of industrial mass production: household appliances, car bodies, sanitary ware, machine tools, electronic devices, musical instruments, televisions, suitcases, hi-fi systems, furniture and appliances for lighting.

Bonetto taught industrial design at the Hochschule für Gestaltung in Ulm from 1961 to 1965, and at the ISIA in Rome from 1974 to 1979. He held the positions of president of ADI from 1971 to 1973, and of ICSID from 1981 to 1983, associations of which he was a member of.

Rodolfo Bonetto designed about 1000 products including the interiors of the Fiat 131 Supermirafiori, Tipo, Croma, Y10, Punto.

He was awarded 8 Compassi d’Oro, the last of which shortly after his death in 1991, as a tribute to his thirty-year career. Since then, his design studio has been directed by his only son, Marco Bonetto, who further expands the design activity also in the automotive sector.

1958 Innocenti Goggomobil Weekend

A concept for a compact “Giardinetta” based on the Goggomobil chassis, featuring subtle overseas-inspired “fins” accents in its rear view. This model, a collaborative effort between Carrozzeria Boneschi and designer Bonetto, marked the inception of the iconic “Linea Tesa” style.

1960 Fiat 1500 Spider

The partnership with designer Bonetto persisted with the creation of a unique vehicle based on the Fiat 1500. Unveiled in 1960, Bonetto crafted a spider featuring unconventional lines, characterized by a prominent full-grille front housing “floating” headlights.

1960 Fiat 2100 Coupé

Following the Fiat 1500 project, Carrozzeria Boneschi unveiled a berlinetta model built on the Fiat 2100 chassis. Continuing the design language established in the Spider variant, this one-off creation showcased similar features such as the distinctive suspended headlights and pronounced front line.

1961 Lancia Flaminia Amalfi

Arguably the quintessential embodiment of the “Linea Tesa” style, the Lancia Flaminia Amalfi emerged as a standout creation. Built on chassis 824.04, originally intended for the Touring coachbuilder, this remarkable vehicle featured a striking cream color paint adorned with a complementary red lower band, echoing the hues of its meticulously crafted interior.

1961 Alfa Romeo 2000 Sprint Coupé

The Linea Tesa aesthetic extended its influence to an Alfa Romeo chassis as well. Revealed at the prestigious 1961 Turin Motor Show, this unique creation, built on a 2000 Sprint chassis, boasted an array of visually captivating chrome elements, further accentuating its allure.

1961 O.S.C.A. 1600 GT Swift

Carrozzeria Boneschi has tried its hand with the Linea Tesa style also on sports Coupe, in this  case based on the O.S.C.A. chassis. Although less evident, the stylistic elements are still present, especially in the front. A 2nd version with different headlight was also made.

1962 Maserati 3500 GT Tight

The “Linea Tesa” style made its mark on a Maserati chassis, debuting at the 1962 Turin Motor Show and subsequently showcased again the following year at the Geneva Motor Show, albeit with minor adjustments. Despite its presence on such a prestigious platform, the reception from both the public and the press was lukewarm, largely due to its departure from the prevailing design trends with its square lines.

1963 Ford Fairlane

The proposal of the Linea Tesa style on an American chassis of the Ford Fairlane. Here, the typically squared lines were less pronounced, indicating the evolution of designer Bonetto’s aesthetic and the Linea Tesa style itself. This adaptation reflected a shift towards a more refined and harmonious design language, showcasing Bonetto’s versatility and adaptability across different automotive platforms.

1963 Alfa Romeo 2600 Cabriolet Studionove

Dubbed Studio 9, the ninth project within the Linea Tesa style, this unique creation, built on an Alfa Romeo 2600 platform, diverged from the classic Alfa scudetto shield emblem. In a departure from previous models, the sharp cuts that were characteristic of the Linea Tesa aesthetic were softened, resulting in a more streamlined and refined appearance. This evolution reflected a nuanced approach to design, showcasing a departure from the earlier angular lines towards a smoother and more sophisticated aesthetic sensibility.

1964 Fiat 850 Spider Daino

The Fiat 850 Spider Daino, named after the fallow deer, which serves as the mascot in Boneschi’s logo, made its debut as a one-off exhibit at the 1964 Turin Motor Show. Built upon the compact Fiat 850 chassis, this unique vehicle was more than just a concept; it was a proposal for a potential small-scale production run. Continuing the Linea Tesa design philosophy, the Fiat 850 Spider Daino maintained the sleek and slender side profile characteristic of the aesthetic, further solidifying its place within the lineage of Linea Tesa-inspired creations.

1964 Fiat 2300 S Spider

The initial rendition of the Linea Tesa concept on a Fiat 2300 S platform emerged from the skilled hands of Carrozzeria Boneschi. This Spider iteration boasted a distinctive jutting-out tail, a hallmark feature observed in previous Linea Tesa models. Additionally, it sported double twin headlights and a sleek side profile, further emphasizing the cohesive and avant-garde design language synonymous with the Linea Tesa aesthetic.

1964 Fiat 2300 S Coupé Gazzella

Fiat 2300 S Coupé Gazzella

The second Linea Tesa proposal, based on the Fiat 2300 S platform, took the form of a Coupe carrying the esteemed name “Gazzella,” a nod to a “historic” model from Carrozzeria Boneschi’s illustrious lineage. This one-off creation continued the Linea Tesa tradition with its sleek and dynamic design, showcasing a fusion of timeless elegance and innovative flair.

1964 Ford Prototype

Carrozzeria Boneschi brought the “Linea Tesa” experiment to a close with this prototype on a Ford chassis, bearing a resemblance to the 1960s prototypes crafted by Carrozzeria Ghia for Renault. This final endeavor marked the culmination of the Linea Tesa journey, encapsulating the spirit of innovation and design exploration that defined this distinctive aesthetic movement.

Carrozzeria Boneschi concluded the “Linea Tesa” experiment with this prototype on a Ford chassis that vaguely recalls the 60s prototypes developed by Carrozzeria Ghia for Renault.

1961 Fiat 1500 by Viotti

The Fiat 1500 Coupé Viotti, contrary to all Linea Tesa cars, was crafted by Carrozzeria Viotti instead of Boneschi. This unique specimen, born from Rodolfo Bonetto’s “linea tesa” concept, exhibits timeless design with sharp lines and clean cuts. Crafted in Turin, it made its debut at prestigious auto shows in the early 1960s, captivating enthusiasts with its avant-garde aesthetic. Despite the mystery surrounding its production numbers, its exclusivity adds to its allure. The Coupé underwent refinements between appearances, enhancing its striking look. As a symbol of automotive elegance and innovation, it underscores Bonetto’s pioneering legacy in design.

the author

Andreas

Italian classic car enthusiast with German roots. Renowned as a respected figure in the classic car community, he serves as a jury member at various international concours d'elegance, including the Classic Gala Schwetzingen and Mantova. As a content creator, Andreas passionately shares his profound knowledge and appreciation for vintage automobiles. His heart beats for cars designed by Giovanni Michelotti, showcasing his discerning taste and dedication to preserving the timeless elegance of automotive history.

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Bugatti EB110

In the world of high-performance automobiles, few cars command as much intrigue as the Bugatti EB110. Brought to life by Italian entrepreneur Romano Artioli, the EB110 was a groundbreaking effort to revive the storied Bugatti name. Combining avant-garde engineering, meticulous design, and theatrical presentation, it was a car that set new benchmarks for what a supercar could achieve—both on paper and in practice.

Who Is Romano Artioli?

Romano Artioli is a visionary entrepreneur and car enthusiast who played a pivotal role in the revival of the Bugatti brand. Born in the Province of Mantua, he grew up in Bolzano, where he established himself as a key figure in the luxury and performance automotive world. In the 1980s, he managed the largest Ferrari dealership in the world, expanding his reach into northern and southern Germany.

Artioli’s expertise extended beyond Italian exotics. He entered the business of importing Japanese cars through his company Autexpò, which in 1982 became the first official importer of Suzuki vehicles in Italy. This venture bolstered his business acumen and financial resources, laying the groundwork for larger ambitions.

Bugatti EB110

A passionate admirer of Bugatti, Artioli joined forces with Ferruccio Lamborghini and Paolo Stanzani to resurrect the legendary French marque. Leveraging their credibility and Stanzani’s industrial expertise, Artioli negotiated with the French government, which controlled the Bugatti brand at the time. In 1987, he successfully acquired the rights to Bugatti, forming the Bugatti International holding company, with Jan-Krister Breitfeld as president.

The same year, Artioli and Stanzani co-founded Bugatti Automobili S.p.A., with Stanzani acting as sole administrator and technical director. Initially, Artioli took a backseat, not assuming a direct managerial role until 1990, when he became president of the company. However, deep-seated disagreements over business strategy led to Stanzani’s departure just as the Bugatti EB110 prototypes were nearing completion.

Romano Artioli’s Vision for Bugatti

The Bugatti marque, dormant since the mid-20th century, was revived in 1987 when Artioli acquired the rights. For Artioli, Bugatti was more than a brand; it was an embodiment of perfection and artistry. His vision was to resurrect the marque in a way that honored its legacy while propelling it to the forefront of automotive innovation.

Bugatti EB110

To that end, he established Bugatti Automobili S.p.A. in Campogalliano, Italy, a high-tech facility designed to reflect Bugatti’s meticulous ethos. Even the smallest details of the factory, from its architecture to its branding, were crafted to exude sophistication. Artioli’s pursuit of excellence extended to every facet of the operation, with no expense spared to ensure that the car would become a technological and artistic marvel.

The Bugatti EB110: Designed for Elegance and Performance

The design of the EB110 emerged after several high-profile proposals were reviewed. While initial sketches by Marcello Gandini offered an angular and aggressive aesthetic, Artioli found them inconsistent with Bugatti’s legacy of elegance. Additional proposals were considered, including contributions from Italdesign Giugiaro, Bertone, and Paolo Martin.

Ultimately, the task of finalizing the car’s design fell to Gianpaolo Benedini, who also oversaw the construction of the Campogalliano factory. Benedini reworked Gandini’s initial drafts, softening the harsh lines and introducing a more aerodynamic, timeless shape. The final design balanced modernity with subtle nods to Bugatti’s heritage, including a minimalist interpretation of the iconic horseshoe grille.

Artioli’s design philosophy for the EB110 drew inspiration from the weight-saving principles famously championed by Carrozzeria Touring, applying advanced materials and innovative techniques to achieve unparalleled efficiency and performance.

A Technical Masterpiece

At the heart of the EB110 was a 3.5-liter quad-turbocharged V12 engine, a marvel of engineering that delivered both raw power and remarkable sophistication. The engine, featuring five valves per cylinder (three intake, two exhaust), produced 553 horsepower in the GT model and 603 horsepower in the more aggressive SS variant.

This technological showcase included 12 individual throttle bodies, ensuring razor-sharp response. Engineered to operate at a stratospheric 8,600 RPM redline, the powertrain underscored Bugatti’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what was mechanically possible.

Bugatti EB110

The engine’s advanced systems were paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, allowing precise control over the car’s immense power. To harness this energy, the EB110 employed a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system that delivered 27% of the torque to the front wheels and 73% to the rear. This rear-biased setup provided excellent traction while maintaining the dynamic feel of a rear-wheel-drive sports car.

The EB110’s chassis was equally advanced. Its carbon-fiber monocoque, developed in collaboration with aerospace specialists, was one of the first of its kind in a production car. This construction provided exceptional rigidity while keeping weight to a minimum. The suspension system, with double wishbones at all four corners, ensured precise handling and a planted feel at high speeds.

The car’s aerodynamics were optimized through extensive wind tunnel testing, with active features like a deployable rear spoiler that adjusted based on speed and braking inputs. All of this culminated in a car capable of 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 218 mph, making it one of the fastest cars of its era.

A Spectacular Debut

The launch of the EB110 on September 15, 1991; Ettore Bugatti’s 110th birthday; was a spectacle befitting its ambitious design. The unveiling began in Paris, the birthplace of the original Bugatti marque, where a carefully choreographed celebration honored the brand’s heritage. Over 70 vintage Bugatti cars were displayed in a horseshoe formation, evoking both history and exclusivity. Thousands of guests, including dignitaries, journalists, and celebrities, were treated to an elaborate presentation that emphasized Bugatti’s past and future.

Bugatti EB110
Bugatti EB110
Bugatti EB110

After the Parisian festivities, the EB110 was transported to Molsheim, France, where Ettore Bugatti had established his original factory. There, the car was revealed to the public, symbolizing the brand’s return to its roots.

Artioli spared no effort in making the event memorable. From champagne receptions to grand dinners, the entire celebration reflected the opulence and ambition that defined the EB110 project.

Challenges and Legacy

Despite its technological brilliance, the EB110 faced significant challenges. The global economic recession of the early 1990s reduced demand for ultra-expensive supercars, and Bugatti’s ambitious production targets proved unattainable. Financial pressures mounted, exacerbated by Artioli’s overextension into ventures like the acquisition of Lotus.

Rumors of industrial sabotage and pressure from rival manufacturers added to the drama. Bugatti Automobili declared bankruptcy in 1995, having produced only 139 units of the EB110. The company’s assets, including the Campogalliano factory, were eventually sold.

Yet, the EB110’s legacy endures. It set the stage for modern Bugatti hypercars like the Veyron and Chiron, which adopted its pioneering use of carbon fiber, all-wheel-drive systems, and quad-turbocharged engines. The EB110 is now a highly coveted collector’s car, celebrated for its engineering prowess and historical significance.

Why the Bugatti EB110 Failed

The failure of the Bugatti EB110 was a tragic convergence of bad timing, overambition, and industrial intrigue. Romano Artioli’s vision for Bugatti included not just reviving the brand but also acquiring Lotus, creating a global network of luxury dealerships. While Lotus found modest success, Bugatti faced a rough start, worsened by external and internal challenges.

The EB110 launched in 1991, during a global recession that decimated the exotic car market. Bugatti aimed to sell 150 cars annually, but only 115 were produced over three years. Compounding this was the Black Monday crash in 1987, just as Bugatti Automobili was established, creating economic turbulence that hampered the brand’s revival.

Bugatti EB110

Behind the scenes, Artioli claimed sabotage: suppliers allegedly cut off deliveries under pressure from rivals, and even employees were rumored to have tampered with production. Adding to the turmoil, Suzuki terminated its distributorship deal with Artioli, cutting a critical revenue stream.

Ambitious projects, like the state-of-the-art factory in Campogalliano, drained resources, while Bugatti’s inability to meet supplier payments strained production. Despite a car that dazzled in engineering and design, the company’s collapse was a tale of overreach and misfortune. The EB110 remains a brilliant but brief chapter in Bugatti’s storied history.

A Bold Dream, A Lasting Impact

The Bugatti EB110 was a supercar born of audacity and innovation. Though its production run was short-lived, the EB110 remains a symbol of what is possible when visionaries push the limits of technology and design. Its story, marked by triumph and turbulence, encapsulates the essence of the Bugatti spirit: a relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of overwhelming odds.

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