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A Closer Look12 September 2024 by Encycaropedia 848 Viewed

The Alfa Romeo Carabo: The Time Machine

Alfa Romeo Carabo Bertone

The Alfa Romeo Carabo by Bertone stands as a beacon of innovation and a pioneering force in the automotive world, transcending its era to become a pivotal point in the history of car design. Born from the Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 Stradale chassis, this dream car marked the commencement of a series of six exceptional vehicles crafted by the premier Italian coachbuilders of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Roots in Racing Success

The inception of the Carabo can be traced back to the triumph of the Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 racing sports car, designed by Carlo Chiti, which made its debut in 1966. Autodelta, Alfa Romeo’s subsidiary, engaged in various racing championships, including the 1967 World Sports Car Championship, with the Tipo 33. This racing success prompted the creation of the road version, the Tipo 33 Stradale, in 1967. However, its commercial success faced challenges due to its high price, technical complexity, and rounded body design.

Aesthetic Renaissance: Bertone's Commission

To rekindle interest in the Stradale, Alfa Romeo sought the expertise of Italian design studios, commissioning Bertone, Italdesign, and Pininfarina in 1968. Bertone, led by the visionary Marcello Gandini, emerged as the torchbearer of innovation by unveiling the Carabo at the Paris Motor Show in October 1968.

The Carabo: Design Revolution

The name “Carabo” draws inspiration from the beetle Carabus auratus, known for its vibrant metallic colors. True to its namesake, the Carabo’s luminescent green body with orange details and gold glass exuded a captivating aura.

Crafted in just 10 weeks, the Carabo’s fiberglass body introduced a groundbreaking wedge-shaped profile that revolutionized automotive aesthetics. This body designed by Marcello Gandini, laid the foundation for numerous iconic cars, including the Lancia Stratos Zero and the Lamborghini Countach.

Design Details: A Symphony of Innovation

The front end of the Carabo is a testament to Gandini’s design prowess, featuring a sharp metallic orange stripe, sleek pop-up headlights, and a distinctive Alfa Romeo logo crowned by a black plastic ring.

The side profile, divided into metallic green and black halves, showcases gold mirrored VHR windows and pioneering “scissor” doors – a feature that would later become a Lamborghini trademark.

The rear of the Carabo incorporates a fixed louver with black plastic slats, providing ventilation for the engine and adding an element of mystique to the vehicle.

Inside, the Carabo keeps its interior simple yet sporty, with two well-crafted sport seats, a dashboard housing the speedometer and tachometer, and a unique black two-spoke goblet steering wheel with a depressed hub.

Power and Performance

Under the hood, the Carabo concept initially housed the same 1,995-cfm dual-ignition 8-cylinder V-cylinder engine as the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, delivering an impressive 230 hp. Later, for reasons unknown, the powerplant was replaced with a 2,593-cfm, 200-hp V8 from the Alfa Romeo Montreal, showcasing the adaptability of the platform.

Enduring Legacy: Beyond the Prototype

While the 1968 Carabo remained a one-off prototype, its influence extended far beyond its singular existence. Marcello Gandini and Bertone drew inspiration from this design marvel for other legendary cars, most notably the Lamborghini Countach, which replicated both the overall line and the iconic scissor doors.

Alfa Romeo Carabo Bertone

The Carabo’s impact is not limited to its immediate successors. Its wedge-shaped design became a template for mid-engined sports cars, influencing models like the Ferrari Dino 308 GT 4, Lotus Esprit, and Pontiac Fiero. The scissor doors, a pioneering feature of the Carabo, became a Lamborghini trademark, gracing models like the Countach, Diablo, Murciélago, and Aventador.

Various design elements from the Carabo found their way into other production vehicles, showcasing the far-reaching impact of this groundbreaking concept car. Louvre-like cladding reminiscent of the Carabo is visible in the Lamborghini Urraco and the DeLorean DMC-12. The hexagonal doors and pronounced wedge shape influenced the design of cars produced by the US sports car manufacturer Vector.

Alfa Romeo Carabo Bertone

Preservation and Restoration

In 1989, the Carabo underwent an extensive restoration, ensuring its preservation for future generations to admire in its original glory. The Museo storico Alfa Romeo in Arese proudly showcases this automotive gem, allowing visitors to appreciate the Carabo’s unique design and its enduring impact on the world of automobiles.

Cultural Impact: Inspiring Generations

The Alfa Romeo Carabo by Bertone, with its captivating design and trailblazing features, remains an icon that continues to captivate enthusiasts and inspire designers worldwide. Its cultural impact extends beyond automotive circles, influencing art, fashion, and design.

As contemporary designers continue to push the boundaries of innovation, the Carabo’s enduring legacy remains visible in the sleek lines, bold choices, and avant-garde features of modern supercars and concept vehicles. Its influence echoes in the fusion of performance and aesthetics that define the latest generation of sports cars.

The Alfa Romeo Carabo by Bertone stands as a timeless source of inspiration, offering a glimpse into the limitless possibilities of automotive design. As technology evolves, and design philosophies adapt, the Carabo’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire the next generation of designers, ensuring its place in the pantheon of automotive excellence for years to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Alfa Romeo Carabo by Bertone is not merely a car; it is a work of art, a symbol of innovation, and a timeless testament to the power of visionary design. Its journey from a one-off prototype to a cultural icon is a reflection of the enduring impact that exceptional design can have on the world. As we celebrate the Carabo’s legacy, we honor the spirit of creativity and craftsmanship that continues to drive the automotive industry forward. The Carabo remains an immortalized chapter in the annals of automotive history, a testament to the artistic fusion of form and function that defines the true essence of a dream car.

the author

Encycaropedia

Blogger and car enthusiast. You can follow him on instagram under the name "Car Encyclopedia".

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Carlo Pinin
Carlo Pinin
3 years ago

Bertone è stato sicuramente il carrozziere innovativo e coraggioso di tutti! Va dato gran merito a Gandini ma soprattutto a Nuccio per avergli dato tutta la libertà!

0
Mark84
Mark84
3 years ago

This is the best automotive website ever! I am learning so many new things! I didn’t know all these exotic prototypes made in italy!

0
PP90
PP90
3 years ago

Bertone made the most spectacular prototypes ever!

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Robert_lov
Robert_lov
3 years ago
Reply to  PP90

totally agree, Bertone + Gandini was the perfect match

0
Andreas
Admin
Andreas
3 years ago

Sopratutto i prototipi Bertone anni 60/70, uno spettacolo

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Carrozzeria Savio

Carrozzeria Savio, founded in 1919 in Turin, is a name synonymous with Italian automotive craftsmanship. From its humble beginnings in the aftermath of World War I to its prominent role in industrial and automotive innovation today, the company’s journey reflects resilience, creativity, and adaptability. This article delves into the key milestones that define the rich history of Carrozzeria Savio.

The Early Years: Foundation and Growth

The Savio brothers, Antonio and Giuseppe, became apprenticies of Alessio in 1899. Subsequently they worked for Rothschild, Locati & Torretta, Taurus, Locati & Viarendo and Diatto In 1919, brothers Antonio and Giuseppe Savio, skilled craftsmen with over 20 years of experience in carriage manufacturing, established Carrozzeria Savio in Via Tiziano in Turin. Their close relationship with their former employer proved pivotal when they secured an initial order to outfit 900 Itala chassis. This significant contract set the stage for Savio’s early success. 

Carrozzeria Savio

Carrozzeria Savio quickly gained recognition in the burgeoning automotive industry. One of their early notable creations was a custom sedan with silent block technology for the now-defunct Fabbrica Automobili Giovanni Ceirano. This innovation was followed by collaborations with prominent Italian manufacturers, including Lancia, Alfa Romeo, OM, Isotta Fraschini, Ansaldo, and Fiat. The partnership with Fiat, which began in these formative years, would become a cornerstone of Savio’s legacy.

Among the 1930s highlights were the bespoke designs based on Fiat 508 and Fiat Ardita models. The 1938 Fiat 508C MM, a streamlined sports coupe, showcased Savio’s ingenuity. Its aerodynamic design earned accolades at the Mille Miglia, achieving a class win and 16th place overall, with an average speed of 112 km/h (70 mph). This innovative coupe set a precedent for modern automotive design.

World War II: Challenges and Adaptation

The outbreak of World War II marked a challenging period for Carrozzeria Savio. As the demand for civilian vehicles plummeted, the company pivoted to producing ambulance bodies. However, the war left its facilities in ruins. Antonio Savio, discouraged by the devastation, stepped away, leaving Giuseppe to rebuild the business under the name Stabilimento Savio Giuseppe Carrozziere Automobili.

Post-War Revival and Expansion

After World War II, Carrozzeria Savio embarked on a new phase of innovation, focusing on Fiat chassis to develop a wide range of models that blended style and practicality. Among the most distinctive creations were the Belvedere series, featuring an open soft top, and the Venilia, an inventive hybrid between a station wagon (Giardiniera) and a cabriolet. These designs showcased the company’s ability to adapt to post-war demands while maintaining its reputation for elegance. One of the most celebrated models of the era was the Landaulet, based on Fiat 1400 and 1900 chassis. This luxurious vehicle gained widespread acclaim at events such as the 1950 Concours d’Elegance in Rome and the Turin Auto Salons of 1950 and 1951, solidifying Savio’s status as a premier coachbuilder.

Savio collaborated with some of the most renowned designers of the time, including Giovanni Michelotti and Franco Scaglione. Scaglione’s work included a remarkable one-off coupé based on the Fiat 1100 TV chassis, a testament to the company’s dedication to exclusivity and cutting-edge design.

In 1954, Giuseppe Savio passed away, and the company transitioned under the leadership of his son-in-law, Alfredo Caracciolo. Caracciolo revitalized the business, steering it through a period of significant growth. In 1959, the company relocated to Moncalieri, gaining access to more modern facilities that allowed for increased production and innovation. During this period, Savio expanded its offerings with custom bodies for Fiat models, including the Fiat 1500 and 600, while continuing to produce ambulances.

Savio also embraced the leisure vehicle trend, introducing Spiaggetta cars that embodied the carefree spirit of coastal living. These small, open-bodied cars became symbols of the Italian Riviera lifestyle, combining Savio’s design expertise with a focus on fun and practicality. By the late 1950s, the company began incorporating stylistic influences from American and Space Age designs, integrating futuristic lines and details that reflected the cultural zeitgeist of the era.

Under Caracciolo’s leadership, Carrozzeria Savio entered the 1960s as a dynamic player in the automotive industry, balancing innovation, tradition, and a keen sense of style.

During the 1960s, Carrozzeria Savio flourished as a beacon of Italian automotive craftsmanship, blending tradition with forward-thinking innovation. This era saw the company deepen its collaborations with some of the most prominent designers of the time. Mario Revelli di Beaumont contributed a sleek Fiat 600 Spider design, while Pietro Frua added his interpretation of the model, showcasing distinct approaches to this compact yet stylish platform. Giovanni Michelotti worked closely with Savio, designing several refined coupé proposals based on the Fiat 2300 chassis, further cementing the company’s reputation for elegance and sophistication.

In addition to these designer collaborations, Savio began experimenting with conceptual vehicles that demonstrated a keen interest in the future of urban mobility. The Fiat Polis, unveiled at the 1964 Turin Motor Show, was one such example. Based on the Fiat 600 D chassis, the Polis featured sliding doors for easy access in tight spaces, a panoramic roof for increased visibility and spaciousness, and a minimalist design that embraced modernist aesthetics. Though it never went into production, the Polis highlighted Savio’s innovative spirit and its ability to push the boundaries of conventional automotive design.

Savio also expanded its portfolio in the leisure vehicle market during the 1960s. Building on the success of the Fiat 600 Jungla, an open-bodied vehicle perfect for outdoor activities, the company developed additional models such as the Savana and Albarella. The Fiat 500 Elegance, a sophisticated take on the Spiaggina concept originally built by Boano, was produced in small series and became another example of Savio’s ability to combine style and functionality.

A pivotal development during this decade was Savio’s entry into bus manufacturing, a sector that would become a cornerstone of its business operations. With a focus on both design and engineering, Savio applied its expertise to create robust and versatile bus bodies, laying the foundation for a segment that remains integral to the company’s activities today.

The Modern Era: Small Series and beyond

The 1970s marked a quieter chapter for Carrozzeria Savio as the company concentrated on perfecting its established focus on leisure vehicles. Models like the Autobianchi A112 Torpedo and Fiat 127 Albarella continued the legacy of the Fiat 600 Jungla, which had by then evolved into its own distinct model line. The Jungla name was retained for variants based on newer Fiat platforms, including the Fiat 126 and Fiat Panda, preserving its reputation as a versatile, open-bodied leisure vehicle. During this time, Savio also became a key subcontractor for Fiat, assembling military light vehicles. In 1976, they received their largest order ever to build the Campagnola.

The 1980s marked a resurgence of innovation and technical achievement for Savio. One of their most notable contributions during this time was their work on the bodywork for the legendary Lancia Delta S4, a car that gained fame for its dominance in rallying. The expertise demonstrated in this high-performance project garnered the attention of Italdesign, which entrusted Savio with the construction of the Aztec prototype in 1988. Two years later, Savio handled the limited production run of the futuristic Aztec, solidifying its reputation as a capable partner for cutting-edge automotive projects.

In 1987, Savio returned to its roots in leisure vehicles with the Fiat Freely, designed by former Pininfarina designer Paolo Martin. A spiritual successor to the Fiat 600 Jungla, the Freely was based on the Fiat Panda chassis and offered a modern interpretation of the open-body concept, catering to a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts.

The company expanded its operations in 1995 by acquiring the historic coachbuilder Boneschi through its holding company, Omnia, forming the Savio Group. This acquisition not only bolstered Savio’s capabilities but also reinforced its position as a significant player in the Italian automotive industry. The 1980s and 1990s demonstrated Savio’s resilience and adaptability, allowing the company to thrive in both niche markets and innovative collaborations.

Carrozzeria Savio Today

Today, Carrozzeria Savio specializes in industrial vehicle bodies, buses, ambulance outfitting, and commercial vehicle prototypes. While much has changed since its founding, the company remains a testament to Italian ingenuity and dedication to quality. Over a century after its inception, Carrozzeria Savio continues to shape the automotive industry with the same passion that Antonio and Giuseppe Savio embodied in 1919.

From elegant custom designs to rugged industrial applications, the history of Carrozzeria Savio is a celebration of Italian automotive heritage and innovation.

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