IMC Apollo Classic Cars for Sale

History of the IMC Apollo

The IMC Apollo story begins in late 1962 when International Motor Cars introduced the Apollo 3500 GT. IMC partnered with Carrozzeria Intermeccanica for hand-built steel bodies, designed by Art Center graduate Ron Plescia and refined by acclaimed designer Franco Scaglione. Final assembly and fitment of the lightweight 215-ci Buick V8 took place in Oakland, resulting in a unique collaboration blending American engineering and Italian artistry. Only 41 Apollos were built, making each example rare and with a fascinating cross-continental heritage.

Model History of the Apollo Series

The Apollo series was developed as a grand touring coupé, with the 3500 GT as its centrepiece. Its platform and powertrain borrowed from Buick, giving the Apollo reliability and readily available servicing options. No direct predecessor exists, as the Apollo marked IMC’s foray into this segment. There was also no direct successor; after IMC ceased production, a handful of incomplete cars were finished by other entities. The Apollo’s lineage is best understood as a singular, ambitious project within its era.

Highlights of the IMC Apollo Series

The Apollo stood out at the time for its distinctive blend of Italian GT design and American V8 technology. With its hand-built craftsmanship by Intermeccanica, refined steel body, and premium leather interior, the Apollo 3500 GT offered grand tourer comfort. Motor press compared the Apollo in capability and style to the Jaguar E-Type, Corvette Sting Ray and Ferrari 250 GT 2+2, especially praising its handling, acceleration and European-influenced lines.

Technical Data of the IMC Apollo

Special Editions and Collectible Models of the Apollo

All Apollos are regarded as collector pieces due to their limited production—only 41 built. No official factory special editions are documented, but survivors with unique colour specifications, period-correct features, or rare configurations (such as the two-speed automatic transmission) are especially notable among enthusiasts.

Engine, Performance and Driving Dynamics

The Apollo 3500 GT's aluminium Buick V8 provides strong acceleration and manageable weight, contributing to agile handling. Its grand tourer chassis set-up drew praise from period reviewers for both its acceleration and composure. Depending on specification, the Apollo could be delivered with either a manual or two-speed automatic transmission, appealing to both sporty drivers and those seeking executive comfort. Of the 41 units produced, models retaining their original V8 and Intermeccanica bodywork are especially valued for their authentic driving experience.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design Characteristics

The Apollo’s body was designed in California by Ron Plescia and later refined by Franco Scaglione, whose Italian design background is evident in the car’s lines. Each steel body was hand-built by Intermeccanica in Italy and shipped to the US for assembly. The cabin is finished with premium leather seats and tailored trim. European long-nose/short-tail cues, a sculpted roofline, and subtle chrome details underscore its GT character. No standard accessories, but period options and rare colour schemes add further appeal.

Other Noteworthy Features

The IMC Apollo represents a rare Italian-American fusion, with each survivor telling the story of international craftsmanship. Its unique transatlantic assembly and limited run render it a topic of great interest among collectors and specialists.

Summary

The IMC Apollo 3500 GT encapsulates the spirit of transatlantic collaboration in the 1960s: Italian styling, American V8 performance, and highly limited production. Its hand-built nature, strong performance, and rarity ensure it occupies a special niche within classic car circles, with all known examples highly sought after by those with an eye for uniqueness and history.