Bolwell Returns with the All-New Nagari 500 Sports Car

Fearless Reinvention - When it comes to sports cars, we often think of familiar names like Ferrari, Porsche, or McLaren. But beyond the well-known giants, the automotive world occasionally surprises us with something refreshingly different — a bold, unexpected comeback from a small player with big ambitions. This time, the spotlight shines on Bolwell, a niche Australian manufacturer that has quietly built a legacy over decades and is now gearing up for a remarkable return. Though its name may not ring many bells today, Bolwell is no stranger to the performance car scene — and its next move could make enthusiasts around the world take notice.

1970 Bolwell Mk VIII Nagari, the first car built by Bolwell Corporation. (Picture from: Motor-Car)

The Bolwell Car Company story began in 1962 when Graeme Bolwell and Ross McConnell set out to build lightweight sports cars, initially offering them in kit form. Things shifted into a higher gear in 1970 when they introduced the Bolwell Mk VIII Nagari — a full-bodied sports car powered by a robust Ford V8. With around 100 coupes and 18 convertibles produced before the model was retired in 1974, the Nagari quickly earned a reputation for being fast, fun, and uniquely Australian.

Decades later, in 2008, the company made an ambitious comeback with the Bolwell Mk X Nagari (also known as the Nagari 300). This time, they used a Toyota-sourced 3.5-liter V6 engine and kept the car feather-light at just 920 kg. However, despite the strong effort, the Nagari 300 struggled to find its footing in the competitive global market and eventually faded out of the spotlight.

2008 Bolwell Nagari 300 featured a Toyota's 3.5 l V6 engine. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

But Bolwell wasn’t done. After years of silence, the brand reemerged with news that stirred excitement — the third-generation Nagari was on its way. Titled the Bolwell Nagari 500, this new model promised a fresh design, modern performance features, and a clear break from its predecessor. According to Bolwell Director Campbell Bolwell, the Nagari 500 had already been in development for over three years by the time it was announced. While it carries the Nagari name, it shares no mechanical components with the Nagari 300.

What makes the Nagari 500 truly compelling is its commitment to cutting-edge engineering. Bolwell has created a completely new platform featuring a composite tub made from carbon fiber and Kevlar, designed to keep weight impressively low — under 2,200 lbs. That’s supercar territory in terms of weight, and it sets the stage for serious performance.

2008 Bolwell Nagari 300 has a fairly light weight of only 920 kg. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

At its core sits a Chevrolet-sourced 6.2-liter naturally aspirated LS3 V8 engine, mounted midship and tuned to crank out a hefty 500 horsepower. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission sending all that muscle to the rear wheels — a setup sure to please driving purists who crave connection with the road.

Backing up the powertrain are high-performance components including adaptive dampers for improved handling, Brembo brakes with carbon-ceramic rotors for serious stopping power, and supportive Recaro seats to keep the driver in place through corners. And while it's built with performance in mind, the Nagari 500 doesn’t skimp on modern conveniences. Expect an 8.0-inch infotainment display, digital gauges, keyless entry, and a push-button start — enough tech to keep drivers comfortable without distracting from the car’s real focus.

Campbell Bolwell designed and built his first car before he even had a licence to drive one. (Picture from: ABC.net.au)

The official unveiling of the Nagari 500 was scheduled for the 2019 Motorclassica in Melbourne — a fitting tribute to the 50th anniversary of the original Mk VIII Nagari. Bolwell’s production strategy is clear: keep it exclusive. Just 25 units are planned to be built each year, though that number could grow if demand rises, particularly from expanding markets in Asia.

With the Nagari 500, Bolwell isn’t just reviving a name — it’s reigniting a dream. This car represents more than horsepower and lightweight materials; it’s a symbol of passion, resilience, and the kind of quiet determination that can still shake up the sports car world. For those who love the spirit of driving and admire automotive craftsmanship that dares to stand apart, the Nagari 500 might just be one of the most exciting stories in motoring — coming from a place most people wouldn’t expect. *** [EKA [30072019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BOLWELL CAR COMPANY | CAR SALES | ABC.NET.AU | MOTOR-CAR | MOTOR AUTHORITY | CARSCOOPS ]

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Will the Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar able to reap its own success story?

Resurrected Beast - In the realm of automotive history, certain cars evoke not just nostalgia but a sense of longing for what could have been. One such iconic vehicle is the Jaguar XJ13, a racing car born in the mid-1960s with dreams of conquering the 24-Hours of Le Mans endurance race. However, fate had other plans, and the XJ13 never had the chance to compete due to regulatory changes.

Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar inspired by unsuccessfully Jaguar XJ13 racing car of the 1960s. (Picture from: ZigWheels)

Jaguar, known for its timeless elegance and performance, also had a brush with tragedy in its history. The Jaguar XJ13, powered by a V12 engine, was poised to be a legend on the tracks but ended up as a casualty of evolving homologation rules. Despite a brief appearance in a promotional film, the XJ13 met an untimely end on the MIRA track in the United States.

Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar made of composite materials for the body to make it lighter than the original XJ13. (Picture from: ZigWheels)

Fast forward to 2019, where a Scottish company named Ecurie Ecosse seeks to resurrect the spirit of the XJ13 through a project called LM69. This endeavor aims to create a retro-style supercar inspired by the golden era of 1960s Jaguar racing cars, specifically envisioning what could have been if the XJ13 had raced at Le Mans in 1969.

Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar used the same engine of the Jaguar XJ13, ie a quad-cam 5.0 liters V12 engine. (Picture from: ZigWheels)

The LM69 is not just a tribute; it's a meticulous reimagining of a bygone era. While it takes cues from the XJ13, it is not an exact replica. The LM69 features modern enhancements such as a fixed roof, rear wing, and aerodynamic winglets. These additions, along with wider rims and tires, contribute to its street-legal status in the UK and enhanced performance capabilities.

Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar has many differences with the Jag XJ13, such as a wider wheels and tires beside composite materials using for the body. (Picture from: Motor1)

Underneath its composite material body lies a quad-cam 5.0-liter V12 engine, positioned in the middle for optimal balance and handling. While specifics about the engine remain a mystery, Ecurie Ecosse hints at the possibility of a bespoke 7.3-liter engine, showcasing their dedication to blending heritage with innovation.

The unveiling of the LM69 at the International Concours of Elegance in 2019 was a testament to the timeless allure of Jaguar's racing legacy. Although pricing details remain undisclosed, it's clear that owning a piece of automotive history and innovation will require a substantial investment.

In a world where the past and present collide, the LM69 stands as a bridge between nostalgia and modernity, offering enthusiasts a chance to experience the untold chapter of Jaguar's racing saga. As automotive technology evolves, the spirit of classic racing cars like the XJ13 lives on, ensuring that their legacy remains immortalized on both the track and the streets. *** [EKA [05082019]  | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ECURIE ECOSSE | ZIGWHEELS | MOTOR1]

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Darth Vader-Inspired Lamborghini Aventador Transformation

FIERCE Looks - The Lamborghini Aventador is a symbol of power and luxury in the sports car world, known for its striking design and unparalleled performance. However, when it undergoes modification by Liberty Walk, a renowned Japanese body kit specialist, the Aventador is transformed into something even more menacing. This modified version, often referred to as the "Darth Vader" edition, combines fierce aesthetics with enhanced performance, making it an even more captivating machine on the road.

Lamborghini Aventador's appearance under a spell of the 'Darth Vader' spirit by LB-WORKS. (Picture from: GridOto)

Liberty Walk's modifications begin with a sleek black glossy color applied across the car's body, giving it a bold, aggressive presence. To further amplify its striking appearance, the Aventador receives an LB-Works body kit that widens the car’s stance. The front end features a new, more aggressive bumper with a wide splitter, while the bonnet is modified with two indentations that resemble air scoops, adding both a functional and aesthetic touch.

A Liberty Walk's typical wide overfender is also installed on the Lamborghini Aventador 'Darth Vader'. (Picture from: GridOto)

The rear of the Aventador also undergoes significant changes. A new, more assertive bumper and large diffuser are added for enhanced aerodynamics. Additionally, a wide rear wing is mounted to give the car a more dominant, track-ready appearance. These modifications are all coated in matte black, providing a sharp contrast against the car’s glossy black body. The result is a Lamborghini Aventador that looks even more powerful and ready to take on any challenge.

Here's you able to see it close, how low the Lamborghini Aventador 'Darth Vader' from the ground. (Picture from: TuningBlog)

Signature overfenders and sideskirts are also added to the sides, giving the Aventador a more muscular and refined look. For even better performance, the Aventador is equipped with an air suspension system, allowing the driver to adjust the car’s height. This enables the car to sit lower to the ground, enhancing its aggressive look and improving handling.

The Lamborghini Aventador 'Darth Vader' also pinned so that the body height can be adjusted up to almost kisses the ground. (Picture from: GridOto)

The wheels are another key element of the modification, with Forgiatio Maglia ECL Alloy Wheels in 20-inch front and 21-inch rear sizes. These wheels are also finished in matte black, blending seamlessly with the car’s dark and intimidating appearance. Liberty Walk’s transformation of the Lamborghini Aventador brings out the true potential of the already powerful machine.

Rear side view of the Lamborghini Aventador 'Darth Vader'. (Picture from: GridOto)

The combination of its menacing design and enhanced performance capabilities makes this modified Aventador a true masterpiece.  With its striking looks and improved functionality, this car is sure to turn heads wherever it goes, proving that sometimes, a little modification can take an already exceptional vehicle to new heights. *** [EKA [12092019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TUNINGBLOG ]

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Vespa 150 TAP: The Bazooka-Armed Military Scooter

Combat Minimalism - War machines are usually imagined as massive, loud, and intimidating—but history occasionally takes a surprising turn, blending the unexpected with pure necessity. One of the most fascinating examples is the Vespa 150 TAP (Troupes Aeról Portées), a lightweight scooter that once carried serious firepower. What began as a symbol of urban mobility was transformed into a compact military asset, proving that even the most unassuming vehicles can play a role in warfare when innovation demands it.

The 1956 Vespa 150 TAP. (Picture from: SepedaMotor)

Developed in the 1950s by Ateliers de Constructions de Motos et Accessoires (ACMA), the Vespa 150 TAP was built specifically for French airborne troops, known as Troupes Aéroportées. Introduced in 1956 and refined a few years later, this scooter was never meant for casual riding. Instead, it was engineered for rapid deployment in anti-guerrilla operations, where speed and mobility could determine the outcome of an ambush. Its compact size allowed it to be parachuted directly into combat zones, making it a practical solution for troops operating in remote or difficult terrain.

Front three-quarter of the 1956 Vespa 150 TAP. (Picture from: SepedaMotor)

Visually, the Vespa 150 TAP retained the familiar silhouette of a classic Vespa but carried a distinctly utilitarian and rugged character. Its most striking feature was the mounting point for the M20 Recoilless Rifle, positioned along the scooter’s body. Rather than being fired while attached, the weapon had to be removed and placed on a tripod before use, reflecting a thoughtful balance between mobility and firepower. The scooter was typically deployed in pairs—one carrying the weapon, the other transporting ammunition—creating a coordinated system that maximized efficiency without adding unnecessary bulk.

Front three-quarter of the 1956 Vespa 150 TAP. (Picture from: GridOto)

Underneath its military adaptations, the Vespa 150 TAP was powered by a modest 150cc two-stroke engine. However, it wasn’t entirely standard. Adjustments to its gearing made the scooter more responsive and agile, crucial for navigating unpredictable terrain during missions. This mechanical simplicity was part of its strength: it was easy to maintain, lightweight enough for air transport, and capable of reaching positions that heavier vehicles could not access. While it lacked the armor and durability of traditional military vehicles, it compensated with flexibility and speed.

Rear three-quarter of the 1956 Vespa 150 TAP. (Picture from: SepedaMotor)

Today, the Vespa 150 TAP stands as a remarkable piece of engineering history, often rediscovered through modern custom builds that echo its bold, unconventional design. Its story highlights a time when creativity met necessity, resulting in a vehicle that blurred the line between civilian life and military strategy. | VpUaJ56Hky4 |

Long after its service years, the idea of a bazooka-armed scooter continues to capture attention—not just for its novelty, but for what it represents: ingenuity under pressure, and the unexpected ways technology adapts to the demands of its era.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... ••• [EKA [03102016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOEVOLUTION | WIKIPEDIA |  GRIDOTO | SEPEDA MOTOR ]

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Aston Martin DBR1: The Most Expensive Classic Car in Aston Martin History

Racing Immortality - The story of a truly great car rarely begins with speed alone. It often starts with a moment in time—an era when engineering ambition meets the thrill of competition and leaves behind something far more enduring than lap records. That is exactly where the Aston Martin DBR1 finds its place: not just as a machine, but as a symbol of a golden age in motorsport that still echoes today.

The Aston Martin DBR 1 is crowned as the most expensive Aston Martin sportscar ever sold in an auction event. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Built between 1956 and 1959, the DBR1 was never intended to be ordinary. Only five units were ever produced, each crafted with a singular mission—to conquer the fiercely competitive World Sportscar Championship. Its lightweight body, sculpted with aerodynamic precision, reflected a philosophy where elegance met pure function. Beneath its sleek exterior sat a powerful engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission, delivering the kind of raw, mechanical connection that modern cars rarely replicate. Inside, the cockpit was minimal and purposeful, designed for endurance rather than comfort, placing the driver at the center of an intensely physical driving experience.

The Aston Martin DBR 1 is won its first world title in the 1959 Nürburgring 1,000 km event and driven by legendary racers, namely Sterling Moss, Jack Fairman, and Carroll Shelby. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

What truly elevated the DBR1 into legend was its performance on the world stage. In 1959, it achieved something extraordinary by winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans—still Aston Martin’s only outright victory in this iconic endurance race. That same year, it also claimed victory at the Nürburgring 1,000 km, driven by racing icons like Stirling Moss and Jack Fairman. Their performance set a remarkable record time of 7 hours, 33 minutes, and 18.44 seconds, helping propel Aston Martin to a strong position in the championship standings. The involvement of names such as Carroll Shelby further cemented the car’s association with motorsport greatness.

The Aston Martin DBR 1 uses an inline-six 2,922cc engine capable burst out the power of 256 hp @ 6,520 rpm. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

The DBR1’s dominance wasn’t limited to a single victory. It secured six wins in World Sportscar Championship events—an achievement unmatched by any other car of the 1950s at the time. Its three consecutive victories in 1959, including Nürburgring, Le Mans, and the Tourist Trophy, placed it alongside legends like the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa, which had achieved a similar streak the year before. It also joined an elite group of machines, including the Ferrari 375 P, as one of the very few cars to win both the World Sportscar Championship and Le Mans within that decade.

The Aston Martin DBR 1 is sold at a price of the US $22.55 million at the 2017 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in Monterey, California. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Decades later, its legacy took on a new dimension—not on the track, but in the world of collectors. In August 2017, during an auction hosted by RM Sotheby's at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California, the DBR1 shattered expectations by selling for an astonishing $22.55 million. This sale made it the most expensive Aston Martin ever auctioned, a record that speaks volumes about its historical importance. The specific model sold, known as DBR1/1, carried a lineage that included ownership by notable racing figures, further enhancing its allure.

Interestingly, Aston Martin has produced other cultural icons, such as the Aston Martin DB5, famously associated with James Bond in the film Goldfinger. Yet even that cinematic fame has been overshadowed by the DBR1’s real-world achievements and its record-breaking value. Today, the DBR1 stands as more than just a collector’s item—it is a reminder of a time when racing was raw, drivers were fearless, and a car could become immortal not through marketing, but through sheer performance and history. *** [EKA [29092020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | MOTORAUTHORITY | TOP SPEED ]

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The One-Off Plymouth Belmont Concept: A Forgotten Dream Car That Survived Time

Enduring Vision - The golden age of American cars was never just about speed or utility—it was about imagination. After World War II, automakers in the United States felt liberated to explore new ideas, pushing past the familiar into bold experiments that hinted at what the future of driving could look like. This was the time when "dream cars" and concept vehicles weren’t only a design exercise but also a statement of ambition. Among those creations, one stood out not only for its sleek presence but also for its rarity: the one-off Plymouth Belmont concept from 1954.

The 1954 Plymouth Belmont was Chrysler’s vision of what Plymouth could be if it leaned fully into style and innovation. (Picture from: Hagerty)

The Belmont was Chrysler’s vision of what Plymouth could be if it leaned fully into style and innovation. Unlike most cars of its era, it wore a body made of fiberglass—a material that was still futuristic in the early 1950s. This wasn’t just about weight reduction; it was about showing that Plymouth could keep up with the likes of Chevrolet and Ford, who were turning heads with the Corvette and Thunderbird. Underneath, it sat on a standard Plymouth chassis, giving it real-world grounding, but the lines and proportions of the car carried the flair of a showpiece.

The Plymouth Belmont featured a fiberglass body, a material considered futuristic in the early 1950s. (Picture from: DesignBoom)

What made the Belmont even more intriguing was that it wasn’t simply a design sketch brought to life—it was functional. The car came equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine that produced 157 horsepower, paired with a three-speed automatic transmission. That powertrain might sound modest today, but in its time it was both respectable and perfectly suited to a stylish two-seater that was meant to turn heads rather than burn rubber.

The Plymouth Belmont’s interior was perfectly tailored for a stylish two-seater designed to turn heads rather than burn rubber. (Picture from: DesignBoom)

Sadly, the story of the Belmont was less about mass adoption and more about what could have been. Chrysler’s management never approved it for production, which meant the Corvette and Thunderbird continued their rivalry without a Plymouth contender. The Belmont, instead, remained a single, solitary prototype. Many concept cars from that era were discarded or destroyed once they had served their purpose, but this one had an unusual twist of fate. Virgil Exner, Chrysler’s Vice President of Design and the creative force behind the car, personally kept the Belmont and ensured its survival.

The Plymouth Belmont came equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine that produced 157 horsepower, paired with a three-speed automatic transmission. (Picture from: DesignBoom)

That act of preservation is what makes the Belmont so special today. More than sixty years after its debut, the car still exists in remarkable condition. It’s more than just a prototype—it’s a survivor. When it crossed the auction block at Barrett-Jackson in early 2018, it commanded a staggering $1,320,000, proof that collectors and enthusiasts alike recognized its importance not only as a piece of Chrysler history but as an artifact of a time when American automakers dreamed without limits.

The Belmont had once toured auto shows, including the 1954 New York Auto Show, where it received glowing attention from the public. Today, that excitement feels justified. It represents a chapter of automotive history where Plymouth dared to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with giants but ended up leaving behind just a single dazzling reminder of what might have been.

The 1954 Plymouth Belmont sat on a standard Plymouth chassis, giving it real-world grounding, but the lines and proportions of the car carried the flair of a showpiece. (Picture from: DesignBoom)

Looking at the Belmont now, it’s not just a car—it’s a snapshot of ambition frozen in fiberglass and chrome. In an era where concept vehicles often disappear into archives, the Plymouth Belmont still rolls, still gleams, and still captures the same spirit of wonder it first evoked in 1954. Its story reminds us that sometimes the rarest dreams are the ones that never made it to the assembly line. Wanna see another Plymouth's concept car. *** [EKA [03122019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BARRET-JACKSON | DESIGNBOOM | HAGERTY ]

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