Stylish Comeback - When we think of Italian automotive icons, names like Ferrari and Lamborghini often take center stage, conjuring images of power, speed, and style. Yet, there’s another name that, while less recognized, carries with it a rich legacy of agility and craftsmanship: Ermini. This lesser-known brand has roots in motorsport history, and its comeback to the automotive world is nothing short of remarkable. The revival of Ermini with the Seiottosei model demonstrates that even after decades of silence, the spirit of precision and performance can still shine through.
The Ermini 686 'Seiottosei' sports car made its debut at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: TopSpeed)
Ermini's journey began in the mid-20th century, where it was known for its handcrafted race cars that competed with the giants of the era. The name might have faded from mainstream conversation, but in the racing circles of the 1950s and 60s, Ermini was a force to be reckoned with. Its cars were characterized by their lightweight construction and nimble handling, traits that allowed them to hold their own against competitors with much larger budgets. This focus on agility, rather than brute force, became a defining feature of Ermini's philosophy, and it’s this same principle that guides the Seiottosei today.
Front three quarter view of the Ermini 686 'Seiottosei' sports car. (Picture from: TopSpeed)
Fast forward to 2014, and Ermini returned to the stage with the Seiottosei—a striking two-seat roadster that harks back to the Barchetta roadsters of yesteryear. But this isn’t just a nod to the past; it’s a testament to modern automotive engineering, blending technology from the racing world with artisan craftsmanship. Weighing in at just 686 kilograms, the Seiottosei redefines the idea of lightweight performance, shedding unnecessary bulk to enhance driving dynamics.
Front view of the Ermini 686 'Seiottosei' sports car. (Picture from: TopSpeed)
The idea isn’t to overpower with massive engines, but to strike a balance between power and weight, resulting in a machine that’s as nimble as it is thrilling to drive. The exterior of the Seiottosei is an intriguing blend of past and present. Designed by Giulio Cappellini, who is more renowned in the world of industrial design than car design, the car's soft curves and flowing lines stand out in a market saturated with aggressive, angular designs. Cappellini approached the Seiottosei from a perspective of beauty rather than traditional automotive norms, which gives the car a distinct presence.
Front view of the Ermini 686 'Seiottosei' sports car. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The front end, with its elegant lines, is a masterpiece reminiscent of the classic Jaguar E-Type, an intentional homage to one of the most beautiful cars in history. However, form occasionally takes a backseat to function, especially towards the rear of the car, where aerodynamics and performance dictate the design choices.
The Ermini 686 'Seiottosei' sports car concept. (Picture from: CarBodyDesign)
Inside, the Seiottosei continues the theme of minimalism and focus on performance. The interior is stripped down to the essentials, with a digital display behind the steering wheel and very little else to distract the driver. The dashboard is a simple, flat surface that echoes the car's body color, while exposed carbon fiber and a basic shift lever reinforce the car’s purpose as a track-focused machine.
Left side view of the Ermini 686 'Seiottosei' sports car. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Luxury isn’t the priority here—precision driving is. Every element is designed to keep weight down and enhance the connection between the car and its driver, emphasizing that this is a vehicle meant for enthusiasts who value the purity of the driving experience.
Interior view of the Ermini 686 'Seiottosei' sports car.(Picture from: TopSpeed)
Under the hood, the Seiottosei is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower. While that may not sound like much compared to modern supercars, the Seiottosei's ultra-lightweight construction means it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds. That’s impressive for a car powered by an inline-four engine, especially one designed to prioritize handling and driving feel over raw speed. The power-to-weight ratio is remarkable, giving the car a dynamic edge on the racetrack.
Interior view of the Ermini 686 'Seiottosei' sports car. (Picture from: TopSpeed)
The Seiottosei's suspension system is another marvel of engineering, featuring technology derived from the aerospace industry. The push-road suspensions are treated with a special PVD process, ensuring durability and precision that’s rarely found in road cars. This focus on suspension performance highlights Ermini’s dedication to creating a car that excels in cornering and overall driving dynamics. With power delivered to the wheels through a six-speed sequential gearbox, the Seiottosei offers a driving experience that’s both engaging and rewarding for those who appreciate the finer details of car handling.
Rear three quarter of the Ermini 686 'Seiottosei' sports car concept. (Picture from: TopSpeed)
Ermini’s attention to detail doesn’t stop at performance. The Seiottosei is also a showcase of artisanal craftsmanship. The body combines traditional hand-hammered aluminum with advanced carbon fiber, creating a unique fusion of old and new techniques. Even the smallest elements, like the emblems and grille, have been meticulously crafted. The silver emblems, designed by master jewelers, reflect the brand’s Florentine heritage, while the hand-finished aluminum grille pays tribute to the past, evoking the spirit of earlier Ermini models. These touches serve as a reminder that Ermini is a brand deeply connected to its roots, even as it pushes forward into a new era of automotive design.
Rear view of the Ermini 686 'Seiottosei' sports car. (Picture from: TopSpeed)
While the Seiottosei is undoubtedly a track-focused car, it also brings a sense of exclusivity. Only 46 units will be produced, making it a rare and coveted piece of automotive history in the making. For those fortunate enough to get behind the wheel, the Seiottosei promises not
just a thrilling drive, but a connection to a storied past of Italian racing heritage. It’s a car that blends cutting-edge technology with the
timeless principles of agility and lightness that defined Ermini's original cars.
In the end, Ermini’s revival with the Seiottosei is more than just the return of a forgotten brand—it’s a celebration of Italian craftsmanship, performance, and the enduring appeal of the lightweight sports car. Wanna see the legend...? *** [EKA [21022014] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ERMINI AUTOMOBILI ITALIA | AUTOBLOG | MOTORAUTHORITY | ALLCARINDEX | CARBODYDESIGN | TOPSPEED | ULTIMATECARPAGE ]
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