Intermeccanica, a name that resonates with distinctive craftsmanship and innovative automotive design, began its journey in Turin, Italy, in 1959. Founded by Frank Reisner, a visionary with a penchant for performance and aesthetics, the brand embarked on its mission by initially creating speed equipment kits for various European cars. The company's prowess was quickly recognized, leading to its first car, a small aluminum two-seater coupé based on the Puch 500 in 1960, which showcased its commitment to blending performance with design.
The evolution of Intermeccanica saw significant milestones such as the introduction of the Apollo GT in the early 1960s, a venture that combined Italian styling with American power, using Buick's aluminum V8 engines. The Apollo GT's success was marked by its leather upholstery and Borrani wire wheels, presenting a luxurious package that captivated automotive enthusiasts.
Intermeccanica's prowess in creating bespoke vehicles continued with projects like a prototype Mustang station wagon designed for Ford in the mid-1960s. This unique creation was aimed at exploring practical versions of sports cars, further underlining the brand's capability in custom-built automotive designs. The venture into such prototypes demonstrated Intermeccanica's innovative approach, even though Ford did not pursue mass production.
Today, led by Reisner's son, Henry, Intermeccanica has transitioned into crafting replicas of classic cars, notably the Porsche 356 replicas, from its base in Vancouver, British Columbia. This shift represents a blend of historical reverence and modern craftsmanship, propelling the legacy of Intermeccanica into new realms of the automotive world. Through decades of change, Intermeccanica has maintained a spirit of bespoke automotive artistry, continually adapting yet staying true to its foundational ethos of unique, high-quality vehicle production.
