Run87k wrote:
I like what you are doing with the Gazelle. I really like the idea of using the classic ladder frame to give the project a more period feel. The front suspension needs to be carefully chosen since it will be out front where everyone will see it. The Beetle front torsion bar setup just screams kit car. Personally I think the grill overpowers the front of the car. I'd cut it down both in height and width. Maybe just width. The body would need to be changed to go with it. But that's just me, I seem to like cutting up fiberglass and glassing it back together.
I knew I was going to do this project for years before I started so I kept my eyes open at car shows and museums for features that appealed to me. Also once people found out what I was doing I got lots of suggestions for body styles. If you look at cars from that era you can get ideas of how they were styled and make detail changes that will give your car a more authentic look.
I 100% agree with you on the front suspension, in fact Im only using the Gazelle body and the only part from the Beetle will be the center tunnel, nothing else. I also hate the squared off shape of the rear and plan on doing a tear drop shape, so seeing how you are shaping yours definitely puts a smile on my face.
I had a chance to go through the entire thread today, simply amazing work and Im seriously excited about your build and it gives me a lot of motivation to get back to mine.
Two things I may recommend.
#1 Add a book to your collection: "Art Deco and British Car Design: The Airline Cars of the 1930s" by Barrie Down
This book was borrowed from none other than Dr Simeone of the Simeone Collection in your neck of the woods. I was visiting his collection ( WOW ), got to chatting with him and when I told him how I was looking for inspiration for my Gazelle project he disappeared and returned with the book and simply said, "Give it back when you're done." A year later and I had to get my own copy so I could send his back. What a great guy he was and what a collection he has! Which brings me to #2
#2 Go to the Simeone Collection in Philly. Id go on a Demo day (though those days are probably over for the year). I went on the Jaguar day and got to hear them run around the parking lot. Such a cool experience!