Gallery9 April 2024 by Andreas 630 Viewed

Ranking The 20 Most Beautiful Cars Designed By Michelotti

Welcome to the mesmerizing world of automotive elegance, where each curve tells a story of passion, innovation, and timeless beauty. Step into our gallery showcasing the top 20 masterpieces crafted by the visionary designer, Giovanni Michelotti. Renowned as one of the most prolific talents to grace the world of automotive design, Michelotti’s collaborations with Italy’s finest coachbuilders have left an indelible mark on the industry. From sleek sports cars to luxurious grand tourers, Michelotti’s creations embody the epitome of style and sophistication. Join us on a journey through his extraordinary portfolio, where every car is a work of art, meticulously sculpted to captivate the senses and evoke admiration for generations to come.

#20 1964 Triumph Vitesse 1600 GT

#20 1964 Triumph Vitesse 1600 GT

At the 1964 Geneva Motor Show, Michelotti unveiled this prototype for a new version of the Triumph Vitesse 1600 GT with a partially transparent roof. This was only one of many collaborations between the Turin based studio and the british auto make.

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#19 1954 Fiat 1100 Charmant

#19 1954 Fiat 1100 Charmant

In 1954, Carrozzeria Vignale brought to life Giovanni Michelotti's design with the Fiat 1100 Charmant, produced in limited series. Available on Fiat 1100/103 mechanics and the TV version, its elegance resonated widely, evidenced by victories in prestigious Concours d'Elegance like the 1954 Campione d'Italia.

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#18 1948 Fiat 1100 Primavera

#18 1948 Fiat 1100 Primavera

The Fiat 1100 Primavera, a cabriolet masterpiece by Giovanni Michelotti, debuted in 1948, enchanting with its timeless design and sophistication. Presented at the Turin Motor Show by Stabilimenti Farina, it marked the pinnacle of the coachbuilder's legacy. Its graceful lines and meticulous details exuded luxury, though its resemblance to the Ferrari 166 Inter Cabriolet caught Enzo Ferrari's eye. With only five made, its allure remains, one surviving as a rare gem, embodying the enduring legacy of Italian automotive design. Photo courtesy of Eccellence in Motion.

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#17 1950 Fiat 1100 Cabriolet Allemano

#17 1950 Fiat 1100 Cabriolet Allemano

The Fiat 1100 Cabriolet Allemano, a 1950 marvel, epitomizes automotive elegance, blending Giovanni Michelotti's genius with Carrozzeria Allemano's craftsmanship. In vibrant red, it exudes glamour, boasting sleek lines and graceful curves reminiscent of post-war Italian design's golden age. Michelotti's attention to detail shines in every contour, inviting occupants to savor the open road. Its triumph at the 1950 Concorso d’Eleganza Lido di Venezia and presence at the Turin Motor Show affirm its status as an enduring icon of design excellence.

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#16 1951 Fiat 1400 Canta

#16 1951 Fiat 1400 Canta

And another Fiat based fuoriserie: The Fiat 1400 Canta, a fuoriserie creation by Michelotti, graced the Turin and Paris Auto Salons, and claimed victory at the 1951 Concorso d’Eleganza Pincio in Rome. Carrozzeria Canta's artistry breathed life into this Fiat-based chassis, captivating audiences with its unique design. Michelotti's vision transformed the Fiat 1400 into a symbol of style and sophistication, earning accolades and admiration wherever it went. This fusion of Italian craftsmanship and automotive ingenuity continues to inspire enthusiasts and collectors alike.

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#15 1953 Fiat 8V Vignale

#15 1953 Fiat 8V Vignale

Regarded as one of the most stunning Fiat 8Vs, this Mille Miglia specimen crafted by Carrozzeria Vignale epitomizes Giovanni Michelotti's design prowess. With pure Michelotti flair evident throughout, it stands as a testament to his artistry, mirrored in numerous Ferrari models also crafted by Vignale.

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#14 1959 Maserati 3500 GT Spyder

#14 1959 Maserati 3500 GT Spyder

Another striking collaboration between Giovanni Michelotti and Alfredo Vignale, the Maserati 3500 Spyder, introduced at the 1959 Turin Exhibition, showcased innovative features like rotating front brakes, later standard from 1960. Following the success of the 3500 GT coupé by Touring Superleggera in 1957, a convertible counterpart was inevitable. While Touring presented a prototype in 1958, it was Carrozzeria Vignale's proposal at the 1959 Salon de l’Auto in Paris, designed by Michelotti, that entered production as the 3500 GT Convertibile. This model boasted a steel body, aluminum bonnet, and a shorter wheelbase, weighing 1,380 kg. Its evolution included optional front disc brakes, a limited-slip differential, and standardized rear discs. Photo courtesy of Hyman Ltd.

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#13 1950 Abarth 205 A Berlinetta

#13 1950 Abarth 205 A Berlinetta

The Abrath 205 A Berlinetta Vignale, a stunning coupé by Giovanni Michelotti, boasts a tuned Fiat 1100 B engine with Cisitalia head, Weber carburetors, and Magneti Marelli magneto, yielding around 80 hp. With chassis numbers 205-101/102/103, the first completed in March 1950, triumphed in the Coppa Intereuropa driven by Guido Scagliarini.

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#12 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter Coupé Farina

#12 1948 Ferrari 166 Inter Coupé Farina

The Ferrari 166 Inter Coupe by Stabilimenti Farina, designed by Giovanni Michelotti, epitomizes automotive elegance and performance. However, Stabilimenti Farina's utilization of the design on other chassis, including Fiat, stirred controversy, sparking ire from Enzo Ferrari.

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#11 1962 Hino Contessa Sprint 900

#11 1962 Hino Contessa Sprint 900

The Hino Contessa Sprint 900, built on the Contessa 900 chassis and designed by Giovanni Michelotti, epitomizes elegance and innovation. Unveiled at the 1962 Turin Motor Show, this sleek 2+2 coupé mesmerized audiences with its refined aesthetics, later influencing the Jaguar Le Mans D-Type Michelotti. With ambitions for export, it featured a left-hand steering wheel and a meticulously refined 893 cc engine by Nardi, delivering 45 horsepower. Though plans for a limited production run faltered due to prohibitive costs, its significance as a prototype remains undeniable, celebrated in its restoration in the early 2000s.

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#10 1954 Moretti 1200 GS Coupé

#10 1954 Moretti 1200 GS Coupé

The Moretti 1200 GS Coupé, meticulously crafted in aluminum by Carrozzeria Motto in 1954 and envisioned by Giovanni Michelotti, epitomizes automotive artistry. Notable for its distinctive mid-height bumper grille, this masterpiece debuted at the prestigious 1954 Turin Autoshow. Moretti proudly showcased it at esteemed concours d’elegance events, including those in Stresa, Rimini, and Cortina, where its timeless design and exquisite craftsmanship garnered admiration and acclaim. Michelotti's visionary touch, coupled with Motto's precision engineering, ensured that the Moretti 1200 GS Coupé left an indelible mark.

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#09 1952 Ferrari 342 America Cabriolet Vignale

#09 1952 Ferrari 342 America Cabriolet Vignale

The Ferrari 342 America Cabriolet Vignale, another masterpiece of Giovanni Michelotti, boasted an extended 2,650-mm wheelbase to house the formidable 200-hp Lampredi V-12 engine. With only six examples produced, clients included King Leopold of Belgium (chassis 0234AL) and Enzo Ferrari himself. Remarkably, all featured left-hand drive and even chassis numbers with the suffix "AL" for "America Lungo." The first, chassis 0232 AL, showcased Vignale's unique cabriolet coachwork with slotted taillights recessed into the fenders. Test-driven by the factory in 1952, it found its first home with Swiss enthusiast Odofranco "Otto" Wild, a loyal Ferrari customer. Photo courtesy of Darin Schnabel

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#08 1954 Ferrari 375 America Vignale Cabriolet

#08 1954 Ferrari 375 America Vignale Cabriolet

This one-off Ferrari 375 Vignale Cabriolet stands as a pinnacle among Maranello's 1950s grand tourers. Another masterpiece by Giovanni Michelotti, it emerged from the Factory swathed in black paint, complemented by a black interior and tan soft top. Vignale's all-alloy coachwork exudes elegance, boasting a sleek one-piece wraparound windscreen, a distinctive hood scoop, and five-gill fender vents, all accentuated by a sweeping bottom character line. Its design, akin to the 250 Europa GT, epitomizes aesthetic harmony, particularly with the longer wheelbase of chassis number 0353. Enhanced with a rare factory-installed hard top, this cabriolet epitomizes automotive exclusivity. Photo courtesy of Darin Schnabel

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#07 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 Vignale

#07 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 Vignale

Giovanni Michelotti's brilliance extended beyond Ferraris, as evidenced by the Aston Martin DB2/4 Vignale, yet another testament to his mastery. Inspired by Princess Liliane de Rethy's Ferrari-Vignale collaboration, King Baudouin of Belgium sought his own statement of automotive luxury. Thus, in 1955, he commissioned the Aston Martin DB2/4 Vignale. The journey of this automotive jewel began on September 28, 1954, when the DB2/4 chassis arrived at Vignale's workshop. There, it underwent a remarkable transformation, emerging with a bespoke fast-back design distinguished by a sizable rear hatch, rendering it uniquely captivating.

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#06 1963 Jaguar Le Mans D-Type Michelotti

#06 1963 Jaguar Le Mans D-Type Michelotti

The Jaguar Le Mans D-Type Michelotti, born from chassis # XKD513, inherits a legacy steeped in racing prowess at Le Mans. Salvaged after an accident, it found its way to Giovanni Michelotti, Michelotti's touch transformed the Jaguar, retaining its dimensions while infusing timeless elegance, drawing inspiration from the Hino Contessa Sprint 900. Debuting in 1963 at Geneva Motor Show, it mesmerized with its allure. Michelotti savored its beauty before sharing it, leaving a legacy of craftsmanship and history that endures today.

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#05 1950 Lancia Aurelia B50 Coupé Vignale

#05 1950 Lancia Aurelia B50 Coupé Vignale

This stunning Lancia Aurelia B50 Coupé Vignale, crafted on an early Lancia B50 chassis (B50-1044) in June 1950 by Carrozzeria Vignale, showcases timeless elegance. Originally delivered to renowned Italian racer Giovanni Bracco, he entrusted Vignale to imbue it with a sleek, modern body. Legend has it that Bracco's friend, Gianni Lancia, was inspired by the design, leading to the creation of the iconic B20 GT by Ghia on a shortened wheelbase. Rumors suggest it may have also evolved from Giovanni Michelotti's design for the Fiat 1400 Supergioiello, adding layers of intrigue to its storied history. Photo courtesy of Cento Ottani.

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#04 1955 Alfa Romeo 1900 SS La Fleche

#04 1955 Alfa Romeo 1900 SS La Fleche

Unveiled at the 1955 Turin Motor Show by Carrozzeria Vignale, the Alfa Romeo 1900 La Flèche epitomizes automotive artistry of its era. Based on the Alfa Romeo 1900C Super Sprint, it showcased Giovanni Michelotti's design prowess. Named "La Flèche," meaning Arrow in French, it boasted a dynamic appearance accentuated by a captivating blue marine paintjob and chrome elements. Inspired by Viotti's 1936 Alfa Romeo 6C 2300 Berlina Aerodinamica Pescara, its heart-shaped scudetto grill added to its allure. This unique cabriolet graced prestigious shows like the 1955 Paris Auto Show and the 2019 Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza, perpetuating its legacy of elegance and innovation.

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#03 1954 Ferrari 250 Europa GT Vignale

#03 1954 Ferrari 250 Europa GT Vignale

Another Ferrari collaboration with Vignale and Michelotti, the 1954 Ferrari 250 Europa, like the Aston Martin DB 2/4. was commissioned by Princess Liliane de Réthy, of Belgium. Designed by Giovanni Michelotti, its elegant coupé featured a distinctive large wraparound windscreen with A-pillars sporting negative inclination, akin to the Chevrolet Corvette. Widely advertised by the Turin coachbuilder, it garnered significant attention, marking the culmination of Vignale's golden age collaboration with Ferrari.

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#02 1950 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Supergioiello

#02 1950 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Supergioiello

Nearly reaching the pinnacle is the Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Supergioiello, a bespoke creation featuring a Gilco chassis and exquisite bodywork by Ghia. This renowned Alfa boasts exclusivity and impeccable condition, being one of only four 'Supergioiello' coupes crafted by Ghia in 1950. Among these, three were built on standard Alfa Romeo chassis, while this stands alone on a more advanced tubular chassis by Gilco Milano. Originally commissioned by SIRCA, Milan's prominent car distributor, chassis 64251 was tailored to accommodate the 6C running gear, showcasing Giovanni Michelotti's masterful touch in automotive design.

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#01 1954 Fiat 1100 TV Sport Allemano

#01 1954 Fiat 1100 TV Sport Allemano

Behold, what we deem as Michelotti's crowning achievement in automotive design—the Fiat 1100 TV Sport Allemano. While some may underestimate its Fiat badge, one glance at its sleek contours, harmonious proportions, striking two-tone colors, and the sheer elegance of its tires, will surely sway even the skeptics. Among the three styles of bodywork Allemano crafted for the Fiat 1100 Turismo Veloce chassis, this stands as a likely unique masterpiece. Michelotti's genius shines through, transforming this Fiat into a timeless work of art on wheels—a true testament to his unparalleled talent.

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What are your thoughts on our list? Do you concur? Which entry deserves the top spot? Share your views in the comments section below.

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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The end of World War II left Japan in a difficult position, having to transition its industries from military production to civilian use. This challenge was particularly tough since Japan, like Germany and Italy, was a defeated nation. However, Japan’s ability to adapt would set the stage for one of the most exciting collaborations in automotive history.

Among the companies responsible for this transformation were Tachikawa and Nakajima, two of Japan’s leading aviation companies. Tasked with shifting to civilian production, Tachikawa (later known as Tokyo Electric Cars) began building electric cars in 1947. Their first model, the Tama, was followed by a slightly larger Junior, and eventually, the Senior.

In the early 1950s, Japan’s evolving automotive landscape saw a shift from electric-powered cars to gasoline engines. By the end of 1951, the Tama Senior was fitted with a 1.5-liter petrol engine, a shift that led to the creation of the Prince Sedan in 1952. This was the beginning of Prince Motor Company, which was named in honor of the official investiture of Crown Prince Akihito.

In 1954, Fuji Precision Machinery (formerly Nakajima) acquired Prince Motor Company and embarked on producing automobiles under the Prince brand. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in Japan’s automotive history.

The Birth of the Skyline and the Search for European Inspiration

By the late 1950s, Prince Motor Company had gained recognition in Japan for its innovative vehicles, such as the Prince Sedan and the Skyline (introduced in 1957). However, the company sought to take their vehicles to a new level—focusing on luxury, performance, and innovation. To do so, they looked westward, to Europe, for inspiration.

Europe was home to some of the most prestigious automotive brands, and Fuji Precision Machinery executives wanted a vehicle that could rival the best of Europe. This aspiration led them to Italy, where they arranged a pivotal meeting at the Salone dell’Automobile (Turin Motor Show) with Carrozzeria Allemano, a respected coachbuilder with ties to Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti.

The collaboration between Japan and Italy led to the creation of the Prince Skyline Sport, a car that would redefine the trajectory of Japan’s automotive design. This groundbreaking partnership merged Japanese engineering with Italian artistry, setting a new standard for style and innovation. The success of this collaboration inspired other Japanese manufacturers to partner with Italy’s legendary design houses, creating some of the most iconic vehicles of the 1960s.

Mazda, for example, worked with Bertone, enlisting the renowned Giorgetto Giugiaro to design the Familia, a compact car that skillfully blended European elegance with Japanese practicality. In 1963, Daihatsu teamed up with Vignale to produce the Compagno, along with its sporty variants: the Sport Spider and Coupé; which reflected a uniquely Italian flair. The following year, Pininfarina collaborated with Datsun to craft a sleek new look for the Bluebird, a move that helped the car gain global recognition. By 1965, Isuzu joined forces with Ghia to design the Bellett II, a concept car that showcased bold and forward-thinking design elements.

These partnerships went beyond aesthetics; they helped establish a global identity for Japanese automakers. By working with Italy’s most respected design houses, Japanese manufacturers gained fresh perspectives on styling while enhancing their reputation for innovation and quality. These collaborations not only transformed the appearance of Japanese cars but also elevated their appeal to international markets, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

A Handcrafted Masterpiece

Under the direction of Giovanni Michelotti, one of Italy’s most respected automotive designers, the Skyline Sport would be an example of high-end craftsmanship. Initially, the first series of prototypes were built by Carrozzeria Allemano, known for its hand-built bodies. Later, a second series of production would be completed by Carrozzeria Michelotti, adding the final touch to this luxury vehicle.

The Skyline Sport was designed as a two-door coupe with sleek, flowing lines and a sporty yet elegant appearance. Michelotti’s design incorporated canted headlights, angled downward at the inside corners—a feature seen in other high-end vehicles like the Lincoln Continental and Buick during the late 1950s and early 1960s.

At the heart of the Skyline Sport was a 1.9-liter GB-4 engine that generated 94 horsepower, giving it a top speed of 150 km/h. Despite weighing in at 1,350 kg, the car’s handling was remarkably smooth, thanks to a double-wishbone front suspension and a De Dion rear axle, technologies that were innovative for its time.

The Prince Skyline Sport: A Bold Statement

The Skyline Sport debuted at the 1960 Turin Motor Show, where it garnered international attention for its bold design and luxury features. Available in both a coupe and a convertible version, it was a striking example of Italian design combined with Japanese engineering. Its clean lines, striking front grille, and eye-catching details made it a standout at the show.

But its beauty was more than skin deep. The Skyline Sport was a car that delivered in terms of both aesthetics and performance. With its meticulously crafted body, luxurious interior, and advanced suspension, the car offered an exceptional driving experience that rivaled the finest European vehicles of the era.

The Prince Skyline Sport made its official appearance in Japan at the 1962 Tokyo Motor Show, where it was met with great enthusiasm due to its elegant lines and striking design. With its sleek coupe and convertible versions, the car showcased a perfect blend of Italian craftsmanship and Japanese engineering, captivating the crowd with its sophisticated aesthetic. However, the Skyline Sport came with a hefty price tag of 1.85 million yen, more than twice the cost of a standard sedan. This steep price limited its appeal in Japan’s domestic market, making it a rare and exclusive collector’s item. Despite its high price, the car gained significant exposure through its prominent feature in Toho films, strategically marketed to heighten its status as a luxury icon.

A Historic Collaboration and Legacy

The Prince Skyline Sport is historically significant as the first collaboration between an Italian designer and a Japanese automaker, setting a precedent for future cross-cultural partnerships in the automotive world. It was a testament to the universal appeal of Italian design and the skill of Michelotti and Carrozzeria Allemano. The Skyline Sport bridged cultural and geographical boundaries, bringing together the best of both worlds to create a truly exceptional car.

Though the Skyline Sport never achieved high sales numbers, with only 60 to 200 units produced, its impact on the automotive industry cannot be overstated. It paved the way for later models like the Skyline GT-R and helped establish the Prince Laurel, another model that would become iconic in Japan.

The Skyline Sport also marked the beginning of Prince Motor Company’s shift toward luxury vehicles. This emphasis on quality and refinement would continue after Nissan’s acquisition of Prince Motors in 1966, with the Skyline Sport serving as a precursor to future generations of luxury cars from Japan.

The Prince Skyline Sport was more than just a car—it was a statement of innovation, craftsmanship, and the power of international collaboration. The partnership between Giovanni Michelotti, Carrozzeria Allemano, and Prince Motor Company created a vehicle that showcased the best of both Italian design and Japanese engineering.

Though limited in production and availability, the Skyline Sport remains an important part of automotive history. It stands as a symbol of the potential for global partnerships to create groundbreaking designs, and its legacy continues to inspire the automotive world today.