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THE ITALIAN COACHBUILDER SITE

Ford Prototype

1964Coachwork by Boneschi

THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE

Model dossier

Production period
1964
Type
Prototype

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE CAR

Coachbuilding, design & conversions

PRICE & SALES RECORD

Vehicle value

Original price
Not documented
Latest recorded sale
Not documented

01 / THE STORY

History & context

The Ford Prototype Boneschi (1964) was coachbuilt by Boneschi and designed by Rodolfo Bonetto. Developed during a period of experimentation in automotive design, this prototype exemplifies the collaboration between established manufacturers and bespoke coachbuilders. The design process focused on unique proportions and construction methods that emphasized both aesthetic appeal and functional performance within the context of mid-20th-century automotive styling. The vehicle features a distinct silhouette characterized by smooth lines and a streamlined form, which were reflective of contemporary design trends. Mechanically, the Ford Prototype Boneschi is powered by a V8 engine, offering a robust configuration that aligns with the performance expectations of the era. The chassis was constructed with meticulous attention to detail, utilizing advanced techniques for the time that enhanced structural integrity while maintaining lightweight characteristics. The suspension system employed innovative solutions to improve ride quality and handling dynamics, making it suitable for both urban and long-distance travel. Production of the Ford Prototype Boneschi was limited to a single unit, highlighting its exclusivity and the specialized nature of coachbuilding practices. Documentation indicates that this prototype was exhibited at various automotive shows, where it garnered attention for its distinctive design and engineering. Surviving examples are recorded in private collections and institutional archives, providing reference for researchers of postwar coachbuilding and the intersection of industrial design and automotive engineering. The Ford Prototype Boneschi remains a singular testament to the collaborative spirit of automotive innovation during the 1960s.

Historical research note

Boneschi concluded the Linea Tesa experimentation with a distinct Ford-based prototype in 1964. It is separate from the two 1963 Fairlane prototypes; no exact chassis has been recovered.

Source: SRC-LINEATESA-BONESCHI-FORD-1964 · DOC-BONESCHI-FORD-PROTOTYPE-1964 · Distinct Linea Tesa prototype · Knowledge Facts r737 · Historical information awaiting independent verification.

02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY

Specifications & construction

Production & construction

Production type
Prototype
Mechanical platform
Ford-based Linea Tesa prototype

Engine & performance

Specification notes
TECH 2026-09-21 — approved Boneschi design-history evidence identifies this as the distinct 1964 Ford-based prototype that closed the Linea Tesa sequence. The Ford-based prototype architecture is structured; exact chassis/model remains open.

Design & manufacture

Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
Boneschi
Manufacturer · Documented
Ford
Designer · Documented
Rodolfo Bonetto
Design features · Legacy attribution
Linea Tesa

06 / EVENTS & AWARDS

Events & awards

No events or documented awards are currently recorded for this vehicle.

08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE

Archive

No publishable archival references are currently catalogued for this vehicle.

THE CONVERSATION

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