Only one example of this car was made! Its design drew inspiration from airplanes at that time. TASCO (The American Sportscar Company) modified a 1948 Mercury chassis, fitting it with a high-performance V8 engine.
The Tasco’s unique design included an enclosed cockpit, reminiscent of a light aircraft, with removable glass panels above the driver and passenger that marked the debut of the “T-bar” roof design (later seen in the 1968 Chevrolet Corvette). The cast magnesium wheels were entirely enclosed within fairings, with the front pair made of fiberglass and turning with the wheels.
Derham, one of America’s premier luxury car bodybuilders, constructed the bodywork through their network of contacts. They enlisted the services of Gordon Buehrig, a highly skilled stylist who had worked throughout the American car industry and was closely associated with the 1935 Auburn Speedster and 1936 Cord 810. However, Buehrig was never entirely satisfied with the Tasco, claiming it was designed by committee. He likened it to the ill-fated Edsel, branding it another flop. Undoubtedly, contemporary design and automotive students would disagree!
Photo Source: Autoblog
