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| The concept car is as old as the car itself. Before any innovation could be added to a production model, it had to first pass muster in a trial mock up. Ideas like wrap around windshields and four wheel steering were first assessed from public reaction. And when that reaction is strong, as it was with the Corvette, and VW Beetle, the ideas get produced. Design geniouses like Harley Earl helped to spawn new life into the industry after WW II through their innovation and insite. Not only can we thank him for fins, but for aero design and hidden lights. Ford's first XL-500 in 1953 was fiberglass, and came with a dictating machine and telephone. Let's not forget Chryslers turbine cars. Fifty cars were driven by 203 drivers, selected to drive the cars from 63-66, and they logged more than a million miles on them. Let's sit back and enjoy those cars from the past, and then see what the future holds. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1938 Buick "Y" (didn't want to use the "X" designation like everyone else). Designed by Harley J. Earl, Impacted Buick and Olds design throughout the 40's. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1954 Cadillac El Camino had a fibreglass body and a brushed stainless steel top which was a preview of Cadillac styling later that decade. The passenger compartment used a curved glass, aircraft-type bubble canopy. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1951 Buick LeSabre. Designed by Harley J. Earl's studio. One of the most famous CC's. Drew from airplane design. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1956 Golden Rocket Dream Car. Panel was raised and the seat was elevated and rotated toward the entering occupant when the door was opened. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1959 TurboFlite. From 54-81 Chrysler was involved in Turbine cars. Visit the Turbine Car Museum. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jump forward to 1983. The Buick Questor. State-of-the-art electronic systems including a laser key entry system and a voice-actuated radio telephone. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1988 Oldsmobile Aerotech, experimental high-speed vehicle. Driven by A.J. Foyt to a world closed-course record of 257mph. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| The 2000 Oldsmobile Profile. Supercharged all-aluminum twin cam V6, all-wheel drive and Oldsmobile's Precision Control System. Shades of most of today's cars. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| For those of us who grew up with a love affair of these metal coaches, we find both humor and amazement in the trials of the past. Now, let's go further, and see what's in store. Next ->> | ||||||||||||||||||||||||