January 23, 1980 – Automotive designer Giovanni Michelotti dies
Giovanni Michelotti, a most accomplished automotive designer, passed away on this day in 1980. Born in Turin, Italy in 1921, Giovanni would eventually make incredible contributions to the European sports car market. His career began at coachbuilders such as Stabilimenti Farina, Vignale and Carrozzeria Allemano. In 1959 he opened his own design house. This allowed him ultimate freedom of expression while working with brands such as Ferrari, Maserati, and Triumph.
Above: 1971 Triumph GT6. By Riley, cc2.0. Top: Cover: Michelotti at right, with Enrico Nardi and the 1960 Plymouth Silver Ray. A one off car built in 1960 on a Nardi chassis that Michelotti designed and had power from a Plymouth Golden Commando V8.
Throughout his career he brought an astounding portfolio of cars to the ...
