by Unique Ford Beatnik Bubbletop Up for Auction Again
Modern cars often seem monotonous, but you could never say that about the Beatnik Bubbletop. This model, created by custom car master Gary Fioto, won numerous awards in 2005–2006, including the grand prize of $20,000 at Daryl Starbird’s National Rod and Custom Car Show. It is now being auctioned again by Mecum.
Unconventional Design and Technical Features
Fioto started by mounting a 1955 Ford body on a 1988 Lincoln Town Car chassis. The construction was supplemented with bumpers from a 1959 and 1958 Cadillac, and the rear taillights were taken from a 1960 Chrysler. The most impressive element was the transparent Lexan roof, which resembles futuristic concepts from science fiction films.
“This is not just a car, but rather an art object on wheels,” one might say about the Beatnik Bubbletop.
The interior was also completely redesigned: a new dashboard, a steering wheel in the shape of a ship’s wheel, snow-white seats, and an air conditioning system. An entertainment screen was installed between the rear seats. In 2015, this car was already sold for $165,000, and it will be interesting to see if its value increases now.
The Beatnik Bubbletop is a bold experiment that does not try to be convenient or practical. It was created to evoke emotions, and it excels at that. The upcoming auction will show if new admirers of its extravagant style will be found.
