CARS GLOBALMAG November2016 | Page 72

THE FUTURE OF ELEGANCE Lamborghini 350 GT del 1963 and comfort whilst maintaining the car’s extraordinary performance and dynamic qualities. The Tornante was never produced due to the issues which led to Gumpert’s closing. It remains though Touring’s first noteworthy design attempt on a mid-engine layout. Following through, visitors will find 3 iconic models of their time. Firstly the 1956 Maserati 3500 GT (a car delivering high performance thanks to the patented Superleggera lightweight production technique, which consisted in a very light steel tubing frame onto which aluminum panels were fitted). Secondly the 2008 Maserati A8GCS Berlinetta concept (the first Touring Superleggera project since the company resumed activity, epitomising the lightweight, pure, nearly understated sports car concept, in defiance of the current trends). Lastly the Aston Martin DB5 Coupé. Not everyone knows that HM’s Secret Service agent 007’s favorite car was designed in Milan by Touring. It was developed from the DB4 model, also designed in Milan in 1959, with production later moved to the Aston Martin factory under a Superleggera System licensing agreement. The tight cooperation with Aston Martin continued through to 1966 and the DB6, generating numerous body type variations, increases in cubic capacity and engine power. Another important concept is the 2014 Mini Superleggera™ Vision, a roadster developed in partnership with MINI to explore new de-