As automakers converge on the best solutions to powertrain packaging, some of the romanticism of automotive design and engineering is lost. To meet emissions requirements, automakers ship out so much of the same: downsized and turbocharged mills with high pressure direct injection and 48V mild hybrid setups.

In the 1960s, when the 850 series was designed, there was no known optimal powertrain packaging solution. Take a look under the rear decklid of the 850 Spider; a longitudinal 4-cylinder sits vertically behind the rear axles. Next to it is the radiator, whose fan is driven by a belt that also powers the remote water pump. Long header runners make their way to a muffler that is suspended from the engine block itself - no need for body mounting.