Hyundai has recently unveiled a meticulously restored version of its iconic Pony Coupe Concept, paying homage to its automotive heritage. Originally showcased at the 1974 Turin Motor Show, the Pony Coupe Concept was a visionary design that epitomized the wedge-like aesthetic of the era.
The rebuilt coupe, executed by the original designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, highlights Hyundai’s commitment to its past while signaling its future aspirations. This article explores the significance of the Pony Coupe Concept, delving into its design, historical context, and the possibilities it holds for Hyundai’s future endeavors.
The Pony Coupe Concept, with its striking geometric lines, bears resemblance to the Lamborghini Countach, another legendary vehicle that debuted in 1974. The coupe’s revolutionary design language incorporated flowing lines, circular headlights, a chunky B-pillar, and a distinctive cut-off tail, setting it apart from its contemporaries. At a length of approximately 160.6 inches, the Pony Coupe Concept appears larger in pictures than its compact dimensions suggest. Its modest height of 47.6 inches contributes to its sporty and dynamic appearance, emphasizing its coupe character.
Inside, the car exudes a unique charm with its unconventional single-spoke steering wheel, two-tone slim-line bucket seats, and vertical instruments that deviate from traditional round dials.
The rebuilding of the Pony Coupe Concept was entrusted to Giorgetto Giugiaro, the original designer who shared a longstanding relationship with Hyundai since 1973 when the concept was first developed. Giugiaro initially had reservations due to Hyundai’s relative inexperience at the time but was won over by the passion and commitment exhibited by Hyundai’s engineers.
Together, they brought the Pony Coupe Concept to life, creating one of the boldest and most audacious coupes of its era. The collaboration with Giugiaro signifies Hyundai’s determination to push boundaries and its eagerness to learn from industry experts, ultimately shaping the company’s evolution.
Retaining the specifications of the 1974 version, the restored Pony Coupe Concept features a front-mounted longitudinal engine and a rear-wheel-drive layout. Its 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine generates a modest 82 horsepower, underscoring the contrast between the original concept and the more powerful N Vision 74, which boasts a 679-horsepower hydrogen fuel-cell system.
While the Pony Coupe Concept may not have the performance credentials of a supercar, its historical significance and unique design language make it an invaluable part of Hyundai’s automotive lineage.
SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center, emphasized the restoration of the Pony Coupe Concept as a meaningful milestone for Hyundai Motor, symbolizing both its origins and its unwavering commitment to future aspirations. The debut of the N Vision 74, a concept inspired by the Pony Coupe, further reinforced Hyundai’s dedication to innovation and design excellence.
The ‘Hyundai Reunion’ event, where both the restored Pony Coupe Concept and the N Vision 74 were showcased, served as a platform to celebrate Hyundai’s past accomplishments while hinting at the brand’s promising future. The event’s purpose was to embody Hyundai’s spirit of innovation, as reflected in these two remarkable models and the visionaries who brought them to life.