The Marcotte Vision 3

The Marcotte Vision 3 by American Coachcraft Corp. 

The Marcotte Vision 3 was a striking, two seater, sports coupe offered by American Coachcraft Corp. of Lemont, Illinois.

It blended styling influences ranging from the 1970's show cars of General Motors to the works of Italian styling houses like Frua and Fissore. There's even a bit of Citroen in its aesthetic, to this author's eye. Though based, like many cars of the period, on the humble VW Beetle its large semi-monocoque body added considerable width and length to the car, at least visually.

The Marcotte Vision 3

It was made in very small numbers, perhaps as few as 3 for a couple years beginning in 1988.
The Vision 3 featured a durable, sculptured, fiberglass body that mounted on a 1969 - 77 Volkswagen Type1 Beetle or Karmann Ghia chassis. It's engine compartment is sized to accommodate a variety of engines. The demo models used a motor from the Porsche 914 allegedly. With front and rear molded contoured bumpers, concealed pop-up headlights and blinkers, a safety glass windshield, and tempered glass side and rear windows, the kit more than met the Vehicle Safety Commission regulations of its day.

The Marcotte Vision 3 - interior

Other features included a spacious, ultra-quiet interior with textured interior panel appointments, a custom instrument panel, and support consoles. As well as large, easy access doors, functional air scoops, and 2 large storage areas. While a fully assembled version was to be offered, regular kits were priced at $4995, with options bringing the price up to $5250.

The owner of one which recently came up for sale said of it:
"It’s almost a monocoque chassis utilizing only the center section of a VW and there are no fuses. Everything is wired to circuit breakers located in the right kick panel. The quality of the fiberglass is some of the best I have ever seen and the door gaps and fitment are near perfect. It’s also a very large car, it is very comfortable and has a ton of room inside."

A pair of Marcotte Vision 3's. The crease that runs from the
middle of its nose to the top of the roof is clearly seen. 

Unfortunately, the car never took off and the Vision remains a mere curiosity. No doubt the price of entry was a factor. But as a styling statement, it was utterly unique in the marketplace. A true original. 

The Marcotte Vision 3 - rear 3/4 view

The Marcotte Vision 3 - Long and low

The Marcotte Vision 3

The Marcotte Vision 3

The Marcotte Vision 3 - Interior

The Marcotte Vision 3 - Engine bay

The Marcotte Vision 3 - Front compartment

The Marcotte Vision 3

The Marcotte Vision 3 - In profile

The Marcotte Vision 3 - From above

The Marcotte Vision 3 - Head on

The Marcotte Vision 3 - Front 3/4 view

The Marcotte Vision 3 - Front 3/4 view, driver's side

The Marcotte Vision 3 - In profile