Isuzu Bellett MX1600 II

The Isuzu Bellett MX1600 II concept car, unveiled in 1970, promised to be a fascinating addition to the automotive landscape, with subtle yet significant design tweaks compared to its 1969 predecessor, particularly in its front-end styling. However, despite its promising outlook, the MX1600 II never saw production, leaving enthusiasts to ponder what could have been. Had it entered production, the MX1600 II would have offered a compelling alternative to the ever-popular S30 platform Nissans, potentially carving out a niche for itself in the realm of Japanese supercars. Moreover, it could have served as a precursor to the Honda NSX, laying the groundwork for future Japanese performance vehicles. The design of the Isuzu Bellett MX1600 II was the brainchild of Tom Tjaarda, renowned for his work at Carrozzeria Ghia. Tjaarda’s influence can be seen in numerous Pininfarina cars of the 1960s, spanning from Fiat to Mercedes-Benz. Notably, his hand in automotive design is evident in the iconic De Tomaso Pantera, with some suggesting that its design is a direct descendant of the Isuzu MX1600. Despite its fate as an unrealized concept, the Isuzu Bellett MX1600 II remains a fascinating footnote in automotive history, showcasing the visionary design language of Tom Tjaarda and hinting at the untapped potential of Japanese performance cars during that era.