{ Michael Banovsky }

In the late 70s, off-roading was big business. Buoyed by interest in international off-road competitions like the Baja 1000. Everyone wanted to drive a rugged, macho truck — especially after the fuel crisis finished. But there was a problem. See, Ford Broncos and Jeeps were alright, but they didn't exactly hold luxuries in high regard. And with the growing popularity of big Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, Rolls Royce, and Bentley sedans (and the rise of a more distinct upper-class), what was the rich playboy to drive when he wanted to go skiing? Monteverdi and Sbarro had the answers. Take a traditional off-road machine (Monteverdi chose the International Harvester Scout and Sbarro the Mercedes-Benz G-Class), dress them up in evocative bodywork, fit nicer interiors, and sell them to jet-setting Europeans. (International produced a range of special editions aimed at individuality-seeking Americans, including the Scout "Aristocrat." Hmm.) The Land Rover Range Rover was one option, but still wasn't ...