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The Orbitron, a bubble top show car crafted by the renowned American artist and customizer Ed "Big Daddy" Roth in 1964, stands as a testament to the era's fascination with futuristic design and automotive innovation. Designed by Ed "Newt" Newton, the Orbitron was conceptualized to resemble a slingshot dragster infused with space-age influences, creating a striking and otherworldly appearance.
One of the most distinctive features of the Orbitron is its nose, which incorporates a set of red, green, and blue lights. These lights were ingeniously designed to mimic television tubes, with the intention of illuminating together to produce a powerful white light beam, symbolizing the latest technological advancements of the time.
Assisting Ed Roth in the construction of the Orbitron were Dirty Doug and Dick Cook, who played vital roles in bringing the visionary design to life. Underneath its captivating exterior, the Orbitron housed the engine sourced from Roth's personal 1955 Chevrolet daily driver. The 283 motor, painted in a striking blue hue, was adorned with Corvette valve covers and three chromed Stromberg 97's, showcasing Roth's meticulous attention to detail.
Powering the Orbitron was a Powerglide two-speed transmission, providing smooth and efficient performance on the road. The rear end, borrowed from a 1956 Chevrolet, ensured stability and reliability during high-speed maneuvers. The frame of the car was meticulously handcrafted using 2x4 inch rectangular tubes, reflecting Roth's dedication to craftsmanship and quality.
At the front of the frame, a handmade four-bar setup with a cross-leaf spring on a suicide perch was employed, enhancing the car's handling and responsiveness. The front axle, a dropped early Ford V8-60 tube axle adorned with finned Buick drums and Lincoln brakes, further accentuated the Orbitron's unique appearance and performance capabilities.
To complement its futuristic design, the Orbitron rolled on Astro slotted chrome wheels fitted with single-groove Inglewood whitewall cheater slicks and Cal Custom fake knockoff caps, adding a touch of elegance and style to the overall aesthetic.
Despite its innovative design and engineering, the Orbitron saw limited exhibition and exposure during its initial years. However, recent discoveries, including its unexpected appearance in northern Mexico, have reignited interest in this iconic piece of automotive history.
Now undergoing a complete restoration at Galpin Autosports, renowned for its involvement in the Ride-On Car program, the Orbitron is poised to reclaim its rightful place as a celebrated symbol of automotive ingenuity and creativity. With its bold design, innovative features, and legendary status, the Orbitron continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike, preserving the legacy of Ed "Big Daddy" Roth for generations to come.
Source: CarStyling; Wikipedia; WheelsAge
