Ford Coins

The Ford Coins, a radical concept car designed by Carrozzeria Ghia in 1974, showcased an innovative and futuristic vision of what sports coupes might look like in the year 2000. Created to mark the first anniversary of Ford’s takeover of the esteemed Italian design house, the Coins was a unique and bold expression of automotive design under the direction of stylist Tom Tjaarda, who was tasked with producing this daring concept in record time. The most striking aspect of the Ford Coins is its dramatic, wedge-shaped silhouette, which gives the car an aggressive and futuristic appearance. The car’s design was highlighted by a pronounced wedge line and a curved, streamlined body that resembled a sleek, red wedge of cheese with the central sections painted in contrasting black. This unusual combination of colors and sharp angles made the Coins stand out as a bold statement of 1970s automotive design. One of the most innovative features of the Ford Coins was its three-seat configuration, with a central driving position flanked by two passenger seats. This setup not only emphasized the car’s sporty nature but also hinted at a new way of thinking about interior space and driver engagement. Access to the cabin was equally unconventional; instead of traditional side doors, the Coins featured a single rear-mounted door integrated into the tailgate. This hatchback-style entry system was an unexpected twist, enhancing the car’s futuristic appeal. The car’s name, “Coins,” was inspired by the song “Three Coins,” which Ghia workers listened to while building the vehicle. This unique detail was further celebrated on the nose of the car, where three small coins were displayed, paying homage to the music that inspired its creation. Interestingly, the Coins concept was never equipped with an engine, emphasizing its role as a pure design study rather than a functional vehicle. Despite its bold design, Tom Tjaarda, the car’s creator, famously disliked the Ford Coins. Nevertheless, the concept car remains notable for its radical approach to automotive design and its ambitious attempt to redefine the sports coupe. With its central driving seat, unusual single rear door, and striking wedge-shaped profile, the Ford Coins stands as a testament to Ghia’s inventive spirit during a transformative era for the company.