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In the world of automotive history, there are always those hidden gems that almost faded into obscurity but were saved by enthusiasts who couldn't bear to see them disappear. One such gem is the 1973 Chevrolet XP-897 GT Two-Rotor, a concept car that showcased the potential of rotary engine technology.
The story of the XP-897 GT began with Ed Cole, the president of General Motors, who was a firm believer in the potential of rotary engines. He commissioned the development of a sports car concept that would be powered by a two rotor GMRCE (General Motors Rotary Combustion Engine). The result was the XP-897 GT, a stunning Chevrolet Corvette concept that was unveiled in 1973.
Designed by GM's Experimental Studio, the XP-897 GT was built on a modified Porsche 914 chassis and featured a sleek Pininfarina steel body. Under the hood, a transversely mounted rotary engine cranked out an impressive 180 horsepower, which was mated to a new automatic transaxle that was being developed for the upcoming Chevrolet Citation.
The XP-897 GT made its debut at the 1978 Frankfurt Auto Show, wowing audiences with its futuristic design and innovative powertrain. Unfortunately, the rotary engine program was later axed due to emissions and mileage issues, leaving the XP-897 GT without a purpose.
The car ended up in storage in the UK, where it was eventually saved from the crusher by Englishman Tom Falconer, a passionate car collector. He installed a four-cylinder Vauxhall Cavalier engine and automatic gearbox to make the car mobile. In 1997, the XP-897 GT received a new lease on life when it was fitted with a Mazda 13B rotary engine paired with a Cadillac front-wheel drive automatic gearbox.
Today, the 1973 Chevrolet XP-897 GT Two-Rotor lives on in Tom Falconer's showroom in Snodland, Kent, England, a testament to the dedication of automotive enthusiasts who refused to let a piece of history fade away. The once-forgotten concept car now serves as a reminder of the innovation and ingenuity that once defined General Motors.
