Mid-Century Smarts

The Pasadena Art Center's summer automotive event also displayed a range of other tiny cars from the middle of the 1900s. These Smart Car precursors gleamed in the hot Southern California sun, delighting all with their pleasing forms and exquisite detailing. This pale blue R360 from 1964 was Mazda's first real car — It went on to dominate the diminutive category of tiny vehicles in Japan known as Kei cars, popular for their favorable insurance rates and tax exemptions.




The very odd-looking Messerschmitt KR200 from 1955 — a three wheeler with a bubble canopy roof, that I suppose drew its styling from the infamous WWII warplane. I remember first becoming aware of this "car" when it appeared in the groundbreaking movie Brazil, from the mid 80s — very well cast for its weird and intriguing, alternate future, look.




This red car with the suicide doors is a something called a Goggomobile 400TS Coupe from 1958, while the much more modern-looking orange Barbiemobile convertible below is actually a Goggomobil Dart of '59 vintage.

Front Door Entry

Saw an interesting and eclectic selection of cars displayed at the Pasadena Art Center College of Design's Summer automotive show. With a nod towards the current fashion for transportation efficiency there was a selection of small, efficient cars from the mid-century. Standing out from the crowd with its unusual design was this pristine example of the BMW Isetta dating from 1957. Getting in and out is literally through the front door – even the steering column hinges up along with the door to allow entry. I'd be tempted to put a welcome mat down in front of it. Looks like a pretty functional solution to me – although I didn't get the opprtunity to try it out for myself. A little flimsy looking as far as front-end crash safety goes though. And to think I feel apprehensive about the Smart Car's minimal front-end impact protection!

Drive to LA

Decided to go down to Los Angeles on a whim this past weekend. Passed by Hollister Peak on the way down. A rather dramatic, rocky escarpment on the road to Morrow Bay — but it turns out to be only about 1400 feet tall.