A 1960 Encore Prototype???

[miljeep]

Any thoughts on this LIFE magazine pic, sure does look like a Encore or is it some M151 Prototype???

[WC Matt]

That is interesting. The pic is from '61? I wonder if it was some sort of pre production test run prototype that was still in use? Interesting paint scheme as well.

Matt

[rickf]

More likely the exterior tools and brackets were removed to protect the suits.

[WC Matt]

More likely the exterior tools and brackets were removed to protect the suits.

So it was a kind of "field limo" for the DoD white collar types. Noticed that the lip that runs the bottom of the side panel has also been removed as well.

Matt

[Bill, Idaho]

Something still looks out of proportion. I can't put my finger on it, but something doesn't look right.

[Bill, Idaho]

Are the rims proper for a 151 or 151 A1? All the pictures (and rims parked in my driveway/yard) have round holes rather than the slots in the photo.

[WC Matt]

Are the rims proper for a 151 or 151 A1? All the pictures (and rims parked in my driveway/yard) have round holes rather than the slots in the photo.

Those are the (very)early magnesium rims. They were quickly replaced by the steel rims with the round holes.
Matt

[rickf]

I can't tell if the lip is missing or if it is just indistinguishable in the light and bad focus. The light mounted on the soft top is a bit funky. It looks almost like the picture has been doctored, look at the print under the hood number. I know it says "for official use only" but it just looks strange.

[WC Matt]

Just noticed the black vinyl/leatherette seat covers. One would think for as "pimped" out as that M151 was that it would have been painted a brighter color...

Matt

[199th mp]

the slot for the door canvas is also missing.

[Stagg]

Ribs on top of the hood might be missing also.

[muttguru]

There's something wrong with that photo. It looks like it has been retouched big-time.

1. there's no stiffening rib on the body-edges.
2. No spade brackets...and if it was an early one, no spade handle retainer.
3. No vents on the cowls.
4. Lifting eyes in the wheel centres, before the Mil decided to add them.
5. A numbering sequence that doesn't fit into any I've come across.

Hmmmmm.......
ken

[miljeep]

If you look at the front fender edge it is squared off like on the encore's, I have it blown up and the pic doent look doctored the hood number is 2D 0455 Scott

[GerryM]

i see the TV camera in the foreground some where there's a story attached to the photo.
NBC News ?

[Hambone]

Weird , too many flat lines on the body, non ribbed hood, different front bumper and the grill may be different but it does have the early mag. wheels and an early windshield. I would say a prototype from the late 70's, Encore, Titan, Growler ect...