Participant of the 3DModels.org One Car Challenge (WIP) // 2025-07-08
Before diving into the artwork, let’s explore the history of the Hino Contessa..
47,299 of the PC-series Contessa were built, between April 1961 and the second quarter of 1964.[1] With an 893 cc version of the Renault-based GP engine, max power is 35 PS (26 kW; 35 hp) which provides a top speed of 110 km/h (68 mph). The first Contessa originally received a three-speed column mounted shifter, later a four-speed manual became optional, utilizing an electromagnetic clutch apparatus called Shinko-Hinomatic. The gear change came in for a certain amount of criticism, a result of its long and cumbersome linkage from the steering column to the rear-mounted transmission.
As Hino had a business relationship with Renault at the time, and the powertrain was largely adapted from an existing Renault product, there are clear similarities to the Renault Dauphine. The drivetrain and suspension were carried over from the Hino Renault 4CV (series PA). The main improvement over the 4CV was that the Contessa 900 was a full five-seater, making it a much stronger competitor. The engine was installed longitudinally, meaning the radiator was against the outer edge of the engine bay, whereas the Renault installed the radiator against the firewall, and the Hino engine sat in a north-south orientation with the transmission attached inside the engine bay next to the Contessa's firewall. The engine was slanted to the left, and utilized a crossflow cylinder head. The rear suspension used swing axles.
The first Contessa was never intended for export, although foreign language brochures were printed up for the Michelotti-designed Contessa 900 Sprint Coupé. Aside from the stylish bodywork, the 100 kg lighter Sprint (650 kg or 1,430 lb) also benefitted from an Officine Nardi-tuned engine (and matching steering wheel) with Weber carburetors and 45 PS (33 kW; 44 hp).[4] The Sprint was introduced at both the 10th Tokyo Auto Show, and the Turin Motor Show in 1962, and followed at the New York Auto Show in 1963. Top speed was claimed to be 140 km/h (87 mph). So that there would be no doubts about its provenance, the scuff plates at the bottom of the door apertures read "Hino-Michelotti". The Sprint had a floor-mounted shifter.
Now, I've received the Hino Contessa 900 Sprint 1961 3D Model from 3dmodels.org
I'll show how beautiful this car is.