Only 12 Made: The Corvette ZR2 Big-Block Powerhouse

Raw Rarity - Some cars arrive with a bang, their presence announced through teasers, magazine covers, and roaring ad campaigns. Others, like the 1971 Corvette ZR2, slip onto the scene quietly, known only to those who truly understand what they’re looking at. Chevrolet never hyped it up, never ran flashy advertisements, and never sent it to journalists for testing. It simply appeared, a hidden monster waiting to be unleashed.

The 1971 Corvette ZR2 created by Chevrolet as a direct successor to the L88, a car that had already cemented itself as one of the most formidable Corvettes of all time. (Picture from: CorvetteForum)

This Corvette wasn’t just another high-powered variant—it was a machine built with a singular purpose: raw performance. Chevrolet created the ZR2 as a direct successor to the L88, a car that had already cemented itself as one of the most formidable Corvettes of all time. The formula was familiar but even more refined. Under the hood sat the brutal 454-cubic-inch LS6 V8, officially rated at 425 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. Anyone familiar with GM’s history knows these numbers were often conservative, meaning the real output was likely much higher.

Mated to the Muncie M22 “Rock-Crusher” four-speed manual transmission, this powerhouse delivered an experience that was not for the faint of heart. The ZR2 wasn’t just about straight-line dominance—it was engineered to handle. With the F41 Special Suspension, including heavy-duty springs, shocks, and upgraded front and rear sway bars, it had the balance and grip to back up its immense power.

The 1971 Corvette ZR2 shared key specs with the race-ready ZL1 but featured a cast-iron 454 block with aluminum heads, solid lifters, and four-bolt main bearings. (Picture from: CorvetteForum)

Comfort was not a priority. Chevrolet stripped out luxuries like air conditioning and a radio, reinforcing the ZR2’s status as a performance-first machine. Instead, buyers got a heavy-duty aluminum radiator to keep temperatures in check, transistorized ignition for reliability at high RPMs, and power disc brakes capable of handling the car’s aggressive performance. It was a no-nonsense muscle machine, built for those who valued speed above all else.

Despite its capabilities, the ZR2 remained incredibly rare. Chevrolet built only 12 of them, and just two were convertibles. The price tag of $7,672.80 was steep in 1971—far more than most people were willing to spend on a gas-hungry muscle car. For comparison, that money could buy multiple Chevy Vegas or a fully loaded Chevelle. The ZR2 was a car for the few who truly understood its potential.

The 1971 Corvette ZR2 prioritized performance over comfort, eliminating luxuries like air conditioning and a radio to enhance its track-focused design. (Picture from: CorvetteForum)

The journey of the ZR2 to production wasn’t without its challenges. A factory union strike delayed its release, and the original plan to equip it with the LS7 engine was scrapped due to tightening emissions regulations. Despite this setback, Chevrolet engineers ensured that the LS6-powered ZR2 still packed enough punch to leave a lasting impression.

One of the biggest influences behind the ZR2 was Corvette’s legendary chief engineer, Zora Arkus-Duntov. His name carries immense weight among Corvette enthusiasts, and for good reason. He was obsessed with making the Corvette a world-class performance machine, and the ZR2 was a reflection of that vision. Though not as extreme as some of the race-ready Corvettes before it, the ZR2 still shared components with the track-focused ZL1, including heavy-duty brakes, a dual-plate clutch, and reinforced suspension. It was a machine built to perform at the highest level.

The 1971 Corvette ZR2 powered by the brutal 454-cubic-inch LS6 V8, officially rated at 425 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. (Picture from: CorvetteForum)

By 1971, the muscle car era was reaching its peak. Big-block V8s ruled the streets, and the ZR2 embodied that era’s wild, unfiltered power. But unlike many of its rivals, it flew under the radar. GM never heavily promoted it, never placed it in commercials, and never boasted about its LS6 engine. It was a car built for those who sought performance, not publicity.

Like all big-block C3 Corvettes, the ZR2 had its flaws. Overheating issues were common, and the high price kept most buyers away. But for the few who got their hands on one, the trade-offs were worth it. This was a Corvette that delivered an unfiltered, uncompromising driving experience—one that has only grown more legendary over time.

The 1971 Corvette ZR2 stands as one of the rarest and most sought-after Corvettes ever built. (Picture from: CorvetteForum)

Today, the 1971 Corvette ZR2 stands as one of the rarest and most sought-after Corvettes ever built. Only a dozen were made, and even fewer remain intact. It represents an era when muscle cars were at their peak, when automakers pushed the limits without concern for regulations or fuel economy. It was fast, it was loud, and it was built with one goal: to be the ultimate big-block Corvette. | V0YmJ_l2sYU |

While the ZR2 may not have been a household name back in its day, those who knew, knew. It wasn't a car for everyone—it was built for the select few who wanted the most aggressive, most capable Corvette GM had to offer. Today, it remains an elusive icon, a machine that still commands respect, and a reminder of what American muscle was at its best. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CORVETTEFORUM | SLASHGEAR | SUPERCARS.NET | MOTORTREND ]

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Porsche B32: The Rare High-Performance Van from 1983-1985

Power Van - When discussing automotive innovation, few names resonate as strongly as Porsche. Known for its legendary sports cars, the brand rarely strays from its high-performance roots. However, there is one fascinating anomaly in Porsche’s history that perfectly marries practicality and performance: the Porsche B32. A closer look reveals a unique collaboration of function, ingenuity, and sheer rarity, making this vehicle an intriguing chapter in the brand’s story.

The Porsche B32 originated as a Volkswagen Transporter T3, redesigned to meet the need for a high-performance support vehicle capable of carrying essential tools and components for the demanding Paris-Dakar rally. (Picture from:Hagerty)

The Porsche B32 began life as a Volkswagen Transporter T3, a model initially introduced in 1979 and widely celebrated for its versatility. Designed for families and businesses, the T3 was practical yet unassuming. But in the mid-1980s, Porsche saw untapped potential in this humble van. 

The Porsche B32 originated as a Volkswagen Transporter T3, redesigned to meet the need for a high-performance support vehicle capable of carrying essential tools and components for the demanding Paris-Dakar rally. (Picture from:Hagerty)

At the time, Porsche was heavily invested in the development of the groundbreaking 959 for the grueling Paris-Dakar rally. This demanding event required a high-performance support vehicle capable of transporting crucial tools and components, leading Porsche to reimagine the T3 as the ultimate companion for its motorsport aspirations.

The Porsche B32 originated as a Volkswagen Transporter T3, redesigned to meet the need for a high-performance support vehicle capable of carrying essential tools and components for the demanding Paris-Dakar rally. (Picture from:Hagerty)

This ambitious transformation involved more than just aesthetic tweaks. Porsche engineers replaced the T3's standard engine with the heart of a sports car: a 3.2-liter flat-six engine borrowed from the Porsche 911 Carrera. Paired with a 5-speed transmission from the 911 SC, this engine delivered an impressive 231 horsepower, allowing the van to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8 seconds. For context, this was an astonishing feat for a vehicle of its size and category in the 1980s. Its top speed of 185 km/h cemented its reputation as a performance-oriented utility vehicle.

The Porsche B32 was equipped with iconic Porsche Fuchs rims, enhancing its sporty appearance and emphasizing its high-performance heritage. (Picture from:Hagerty)

To match its newfound power, Porsche upgraded the B32’s suspension system and enhanced the braking performance. These modifications ensured stability and safety at high speeds. A set of Porsche Fuchs wheels and subtle design elements gave the van a sporty edge, setting it apart from the standard T3. 

The Porsche B32' interior boasted luxurious finishes, with rotating second-row seats and a folding table, making it as comfortable as it was powerful. (Picture from:Hagerty)

Inside, the upgrades were equally impressive. The interior boasted luxurious finishes, with rotating second-row seats and a folding table, making it as comfortable as it was powerful. Details like the Porsche 911 steering wheel and gear lever added a final touch of exclusivity.

The Porsche B32, powered by a 3.2-liter flat-six engine from the 911 Carrera and paired with a 5-speed 911 SC transmission, delivered 231 horsepower. (Picture from:Hagerty)

Despite its innovative design, the Porsche B32 remained a niche project. Only a handful of units were produced between 1983 and 1985, with estimates suggesting fewer than 15 were ever built, including prototypes. These limited numbers were driven by the B32’s specialized role and its high production cost, making it a rare sight even in its time. 

The Porsche B32stands as a testament to the brand's ability to think outside the box while staying true to its performance-oriented ethos. (Picture from:Hagerty)

Recently, one of these elusive vehicles resurfaced on the market, valued at an eye-watering €364,900, a testament to its historical and collectible significance. The Porsche B32 stands as a testament to the brand's ability to think outside the box while staying true to its performance-oriented ethos. 

Though it diverges from the sports car pedigree Porsche is known for, this unique creation reflects the innovative spirit that defines the company. A rare blend of utility and speed, the B32 offers a glimpse into what happens when passion for engineering pushes boundaries, even in the unlikeliest of vehicles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HAGERTY | CARSCOOPS | GOODWOOD | AUTOEVOLUTION | GET WELL SOON ]

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DragStar F1 Dragon: Roaring Like a Rockstar on the Streets

Unique ONES - When it comes to custom cars, Japan has a long history of standing out with bold, creative, and technically impressive projects. This isn't surprising given the nation's rich talent pool in the automotive industry. The combination of technical expertise and an eye for innovation has led to the creation of unique vehicles that are admired by enthusiasts worldwide. One such creation that caught the attention of many is the DragStar F1 Dragon, a remarkable car that made its debut in 2011. This car is a bold statement of custom automotive design, and its story is one that blends craftsmanship with a vision for something entirely different from the norm, and inspired by Japan’s “bosozoku” car culture.

The DragStar F1 Dragon was a remarkable car that made its debut in 2011 and born from the ambitions of Value Progress. (Picture from: Carscoops)

The DragStar F1 Dragon was born from the ambitions of Value Progress, a custom car manufacturer with a passion for creating distinctive sports cars. They set out to design a long-nose, short-deck vehicle that resembled a drag machine, combining both aesthetics and performance. Interestingly, the DragStar F1 Dragon wasn’t the first iteration of this idea. In 2010, Value Progress had already introduced the DragStar F1 at the Tokyo Auto Salon, where it earned recognition and won the Excellence Award in the Concept Car category. This success laid the groundwork for an even more advanced version—the DragStar F1 Dragon.

Measuring 5,200 mm in length, 2,160 mm in width, and 1,180 mm in height, it commands attention on the road. (Picture from: Piximus)

Using a Toyota MR-S as the base, the team at Value Progress extended the wheelbase by 1,100 mm, dramatically altering the car’s proportions. By reinforcing the structure with a main frame beneath the vehicle, they were able to achieve significant body rigidity. This design decision also resulted in a flat floor, which improved the car's overall aerodynamics. While the predecessor DragStar F1 had already turned heads with its unique design, the Dragon took things even further. Fully armed with aerodynamic enhancements, the DragStar F1 Dragon was designed to be both visually striking and capable of passing vehicle inspections, making it street legal.

Fully armed with aerodynamic enhancements, the DragStar F1 Dragon was designed to be both visually striking and capable of passing vehicle inspections, making it street legal. (Picture from: ValueProgress)

One of the most impressive aspects of the DragStar F1 Dragon is its size and bold exterior design. Measuring 5,200 mm in length, 2,160 mm in width, and 1,180 mm in height, it commands attention on the road. Its striking red color only adds to its aggressive appearance, making it difficult to ignore when spotted on public roads. Beneath the hood, the Dragon is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter "1ZZ-FE" inline 4-cylinder engine, which generates 140 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and a maximum torque of 17.4 kgm at 4,400 rpm. This powertrain, paired with either a manual or automatic manual transmission, is similar to that of the Toyota MR-S, though the car’s exterior might make you forget its humble origins.

Unless you take a peek at the interior, there's no way you'll be able to recognize the Toyota MR-2 hiding under the striking DragStar F1 Dragon red-armor. (Picture from: Kurama-News.jp)

Customization is a key feature of the DragStar F1 Dragon, with bolt-on parts allowing owners to make the car truly their own. Value Progress designed it with the idea of giving customers the freedom to create a completely original vehicle, building on the foundation of their unique vision. This ability to personalize the car has added to its appeal among automotive enthusiasts who want something truly one-of-a-kind.

The DragStar F1 Dragon features Ferrari Testarossa-like side strakes and a dramatically extended nose, have given it an entirely new identity. (Picture from: Kurama-News.jp)

Despite being based on the Toyota MR-S, the DragStar F1 Dragon is almost unrecognizable compared to its donor car. The massive changes to the exterior, including Ferrari Testarossa-like side strakes and a dramatically extended nose, have given it an entirely new identity. The only hint of the MR-S under all the custom work is when you take a look inside. However, even with all these radical modifications, the Dragon retains the mid-engine layout of the original MR-S, ensuring it maintains a balanced and performance-oriented driving experience.

Despite being based on the Toyota MR-S, the DragStar F1 Dragon is almost unrecognizable compared to its donor car. (Picture from: Piximus)

Public reaction to the DragStar F1 Dragon has been mixed, with some people expressing admiration for its bold design, while others find the drastic styling too much. Comments like "It's cool!" and "It will definitely turn heads" are common, highlighting the car’s ability to make an impression, whether positive or controversial. This divisive reception only adds to the mystique of the DragStar F1 Dragon, as it continues to be a conversation starter among car enthusiasts. | a1_nmh6W6cQ |

At its core, the DragStar F1 Dragon represents the endless possibilities of custom car design. It’s a reminder that creativity and vision can transform even the most familiar platforms into something extraordinary. Whether you view it as a masterpiece or an outlandish creation, there’s no denying that the DragStar F1 Dragon is a bold testament to the world of custom car culture, and it continues to capture the imaginations of those who encounter it on the road. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VALUEPROGGRESS | CARSCOOPS | KURAMA-NEWS.JP | PIXIMUS ]

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Ferrari 308 GTB LM Evocation: A Racing Legend Reborn

The Legend Reborn - The Legend Reborn - The Ferrari 308 GTB, an iconic model in the automotive world, has been reimagined and transformed into something truly spectacular. This particular example called Ferrari 308 LM Evocation, brought up to LM specification, pays homage to the legendary 308 GTB LM that Maurice Dantinne famously raced in the ‘70s and ‘80s. The result is a car that not only captures the spirit of its racing predecessor but also stands out on modern tracks and roads with its unique blend of heritage and performance.

The Ferrari 308 LM Evocation, modified to LM specification and made road-legal, pays homage to the legendary 308 GTB LM famously raced by Maurice Dantinne in the '70s and '80s. (Picture from: Silodrome)

One of the most striking aspects of this 308 GTB is its exterior transformation. The LM body kit, with its broader wheel arches, allows for the installation of wider tires, enhancing both grip and stance. The reshaped nose, complete with additional headlights, gives the car a menacing presence that commands attention whether it’s on a track or a fast road. This aggressive appearance is more than just skin deep; it’s a reflection of the performance upgrades that have been meticulously integrated into the car.

The Ferrari 308 LM Evocation was inspired by the legendary 308 GTB LM raced by Maurice Dantinne in the '70s and '80s. (Picture from: RacingSportsCars)

Underneath its bold exterior, the Ferrari 308 GTB LM is built on a strong foundation. When Ferrari introduced the 308 GTB and GTS models in 1975, they were designed to replace the Dino 246 GT and GTS. The new 308 was built on a tubular steel frame, similar to the one used in the Ferrari 308 GT4. Powering the car was the Ferrari F106 AB V8 engine, featuring double overhead cams per bank, two valves per cylinder, and four twin-choke Weber carburetors. With a displacement of 2,927cc, this engine was capable of delivering impressive performance.

The Ferrari 308 LM Evocation, the racing version of the road car, was a significantly re-engineered machine. (Picture from: Silodrome)

What’s particularly interesting about the early 308 models is their use of fiberglass bodies, produced by Carrozzeria Scaglietti. Referred to as “Vetroresina,” these lightweight bodies were used from 1975 until 1977, when Ferrari switched to steel, resulting in a weight gain of approximately 150 kgs (331 lbs). Despite this change, the car remained a strong performer, particularly in its European specification, where it produced 252 bhp at 6,600 rpm. American models, on the other hand, delivered slightly less power due to the need for emissions control devices.

The visual transformation of the Ferrari 308 LM Evocation is evident in its front bumper and grille conversion, wider body kit, and PLS wheels fitted with Pirelli P Zero Asimmetrico tires. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Regardless of the engine variant, all 308 GTB and GTS models featured a 5-speed gearbox that sent power to the rear wheels. The gated transmission plate, a trademark of Ferrari, provided a precise and engaging driving experience, which became a hallmark of the brand. 

The production of the 308 GTB and GTS models spanned a decade, from 1975 to 1985. Over this period, the car was available in several variations, including the original carbureted version, the fuel-injected GTBi/GTSi series, and the later Quattrovalvole four-valve models. Ferrari also offered the 208 and 208 Turbo models, catering to markets where lower displacement engines were taxed less heavily.

The interior of the Ferrari 308 LM Evocation has been stripped of non-essential conveniences and now features LTEC bucket seats with Sabelt four-point harnesses and a custom three-spoke racing steering wheel. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The 308 GTB LM Evocation, the racing version of the road car, was a significantly re-engineered machine. It featured a wider track, wider wheels, and a body with substantial aerodynamic modifications, all designed to enhance its performance on the race track. The drivetrain was also upgraded to withstand the rigors of competition, making the LM a formidable contender in motorsport. 

The Ferrari 308 LM Evocation is powered by a Ferrari F106 AB V8 engine with a 2,927cc displacement, featuring double overhead cams per bank, two valves per cylinder, and four twin-choke Weber carburetors. (Picture from: Silodrome)

This particular 308 GTB LM Evocation has been crafted to replicate the spirit and specifications of the original racing car. It features uprated Intrax adjustable suspension, a four-tip sports exhaust, and enhanced brakes. The interior has been stripped of non-essential conveniences, resulting in an 80 kg weight reduction that further improves performance.

 

Visually, the car’s transformation is evident. The front bumper and grille conversion, along with the wider body kit and PLS wheels shod with Pirelli P Zero Asimmetrico tires, give the car an unmistakable presence. The engine now breathes through velocity stacks, which are capped with grilles to keep out debris. This setup, combined with the sports exhaust, has significantly improved the car’s performance.

The Ferrari 308 LM Evocation featured a body with substantial aerodynamic modifications, a wider track, and wider wheels. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Inside, the car is equipped for both fast road and track use. It features LTEC bucket seats with Sabelt four-point harnesses, ensuring that the driver remains securely in place during spirited driving. A custom three-spoke racing steering wheel completes the interior, providing the driver with precise control over this high-performance machine. Apologies, but there isn't a video available on the 308 LM Evocation. However, I hope you enjoy this video about the Ferrari 308 GTB 'Vetroresina' instead.

This Ferrari 308 GTB LM Evocation stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the 308 GTB series. It’s a car that not only honors its racing heritage but also brings that legacy into the present with modern upgrades and a fierce new look. Whether on the track or the road, this 308 GTB LM Evocation is sure to turn heads and deliver an exhilarating driving experience that is quintessentially Ferrari. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | SILODROME | CLASSIC | AUTOBLOG | RACINGSPORTSCARS | COLLECTINGCARS ]

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Owen Sedanca: The Rare, Exclusive Coachbuilt Coupé of the 1970s

Bespoke Legacy - In the world of automobile design, the art of creating custom bodywork has slowly faded away over the years. Once a common practice in the early days of motoring, the expense of skilled labor, combined with modern safety standards, made such projects increasingly rare by the 1960s. However, there are always those few individuals and companies that seek to revive this lost art. 

This gold-finished Owen Sedanca, now owned by Richard Town since May 2017, was found in Hampshire with 23,000 miles and plans for restoration to roadworthy condition by season's end. (Picture from: Wolfrace)

One such example comes from H.R. Owen, a luxury car dealer based in London. In the early 1970s, H.R. Owen embarked on an ambitious project to create a high-end, four-seater coupe that would capture the essence of classic, hand-crafted automobiles. Their creation, the Owen Sedanca, was based on the platform of the Jaguar XJ6 and designed by Chris Humberstone. Inspired by the sleek lines of the Lamborghini Espada, the Sedanca featured a large yet striking design with a hand-beaten aluminum body. 

The Owen Sedanca, the first Panther-built example, differs from the original with notable changes such as higher-mounted door handles and a revised headlamp arrangement. (Picture from: AROnline)

Made by the skilled coachbuilders Williams & Pritchard, it had innovative touches like pop-up headlights, rubber bumpers, and a practical hatchback. Despite its significant price tag, higher even than a Rolls-Royce, the Sedanca gained significant attention when it debuted at the 1973 London Motor Show. Its allure was immediate, and H.R. Owen even secured around 80 orders.

The Owen Sedanca, under construction at Williams & Pritchard's workshops, featured a fixed roof, making it a Sedanca in name only. (Picture from: AROnline)

However, the automotive world was about to change drastically. The global oil crisis, which emerged soon after the Sedanca's unveiling, led to cancellations of many of these orders. At the same time, Jaguar’s refusal to supply the bare platforms for the car meant that H.R. Owen could not continue production. As a result, only two prototypes were completed, marking the sudden end of a project that had promised much more.

The Owen Sedanca, featured in one of H.R. Owen’s original publicity shots, shows the prototype, which was later destroyed along with the first production model. (Picture from: AROnline)

But the Owen Sedanca was not done just yet. Several years after production plans were scrapped, an Arab Sheik who had seen the car at the motor show became so captivated by it that he ordered a custom version of the Sedanca. This vehicle was constructed in 1978 by Panther Westwinds, a well-known coachbuilder led by Robert Jankel. The Sheik took the car to his Oxfordshire estate, where it was used for several years. So taken with the design, he ordered a second Sedanca in 1983. This one was built by Robert Jankel Design, as he had left Panther after its closure in 1979.

The Owen Sedanca custom version constructed by Robert Jankel in 1983, was meticulously crafted for an Arab Sheik, showcasing exclusive luxury and bespoke design. (Picture from: RitzSite.nl)

Ultimately, only four Sedancas were made, far from the 100 originally planned. One of the prototypes was destroyed, and the other remains in poor condition. However, the two cars made for the Sheik continue to survive, with one still in Britain and the other in the Netherlands. These cars are a testament to the uniqueness and craftsmanship of coachbuilt automobiles. The rarity of the Sedanca makes it a highly sought-after piece for collectors, as its custom-built nature ensures that no two are quite the same.

The Owen Sedanca boasted a highly luxurious interior, complete with silver-topped decanters, brushes elegantly stored in the armrest, and other refined details. (Picture from: AROnline)

In recent years, interest in custom-designed cars has started to rise again. Modern manufacturing technologies have made it easier and more affordable for car buyers to commission bespoke designs. The Owen Sedanca, though largely forgotten by the mainstream, serves as a reminder of a time when automobiles were more than just machines—they were expressions of artistry and personal taste. With renewed interest in bespoke cars, we might just be on the brink of a new era for custom-designed automobiles, where creativity and craftsmanship can once again thrive on a smaller, more intimate scale.

The legacy of the Owen Sedanca proves that, while mass production has dominated the automotive world, there will always be a place for the bespoke, the unique, and the extraordinary. In a world of increasingly standardized products, custom cars like the Sedanca remind us that luxury and individuality can never be replaced. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RITZSITE.NL | ARONLINE | WOLFRACE ]

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Franco Sbarro's Two For 100: A Bold Take on Eco-Friendly Cars

Unique ONES - Franco Sbarro has long been regarded as a visionary in the world of automotive design, creating masterpieces that defy convention. His works often surprise and challenge established norms, and his creations go beyond mere transportation—they are statements. One of his standout achievements was introduced to the world in 2011, capturing attention not just for its performance, but for its bold reimagining of what a car could be. This creation, whimsically named the Two For 100, is a testament to Sbarro’s unique approach to automotive design.

The Sbarro Two For 100 was focused on lightening vehicles, adopting smaller, more fuel-efficient engines and improving aerodynamics. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)

The focus of this particular project was on crafting a lighter, more efficient vehicle. Sbarro set out to reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing the driving experience. With the Two For 100, he adopted the philosophy of combining a smaller, more fuel-efficient engine with improved aerodynamics, creating a vehicle that was not only eco-friendly but also innovative in its design. The name itself is a clever nod to its efficiency—two liters of fuel for every hundred kilometers, an impressive feat by any standard.

Franco Sbarro at the wheel of the Two For 100, a kind of bubble on wheels. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)

As environmental concerns become increasingly central to the automotive industry, Sbarro’s foresight in creating a vehicle that prioritizes efficiency was ahead of its time. Decades before the Two For 100 made its debut, Sbarro was already exploring alternative energy sources. In 1977, he designed the Pilcar, an electric car at a time when electric vehicles were seen as mere experimental whims rather than a viable future for transportation. However, by 2011, it seemed that Sbarro had shifted his focus slightly, moving away from electric power and towards optimizing traditional internal combustion engines. His new direction emphasized reducing weight, shrinking engine sizes, and refining aerodynamics, while still producing an efficient vehicle.

The Sbarro Two For 100 featured a bubble-shaped interior offers unrivalled 360° panoramic vision, and made debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)

The Two For 100, presented at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, encapsulated all of these principles. Weighing in at just 500 kilograms and powered by a modest 600 cc engine, this compact vehicle was designed to excel in both urban environments and on open roads. One of the most fascinating aspects of the car was its adaptability. It could be driven in a low position to reduce drag and improve performance, or in a higher position for better visibility in crowded city streets, where aerodynamics play a less critical role. The result was a car that not only met its fuel efficiency target but did so with an innovative design that was practical and forward-thinking.

The Sbarro Two For 100 featuring a simple and comfortable cabin awaits the two occupants. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)

What surprised visitors to the Geneva show was the design of the Two For 100, far removed from the usual criteria. Extremely short (3.5 m), its bubble-shaped interior offers unrivalled 360° panoramic vision. The car's technical side was overshadowed by the eternal quips to which Franco Sbarro must be accustomed. Which is a pity, but it doesn't matter. The Two For 100 is an interesting concept, by no means revolutionary, but it does offer a synthesis of what could be done in mass production to make cars less polluting, without resorting to expensive technologies.

Careful aerodynamics led Sbarro to fair the unique wheels. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)

Despite its technical merits, however, the car’s unusual appearance drew quizzical looks and remarks from onlookers, perhaps overshadowing the innovation beneath the surface. But as with many of Sbarro’s creations, the Two For 100 was never just about fitting in—it was about pushing boundaries and presenting new possibilities.

The Sbarro Two For 100 is adorned with unique transparent polycarbonate wheels, similar to those seen on the 2008 Pendocar. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)

One particularly innovative feature of the Two For 100 was its wheels. Made entirely of polycarbonate, these transparent wheels were not only lightweight but also added a futuristic aesthetic to the car’s overall look. This wasn’t the first time Sbarro had experimented with polycarbonate wheels—he had previously introduced them on the 2008 Pendocar, a motorcycle that shared the same cutting-edge spirit. The use of polycarbonate in the wheels was another example of Sbarro’s ingenuity, highlighting his ability to incorporate unconventional materials into his designs while still maintaining functionality.

The Sbarro Two For 100 a reflection of Franco Sbarro’s unique vision and creativity. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)

The Two For 100 may not have revolutionized the automotive world in the way electric vehicles eventually did, but it did offer a fresh perspective on how cars could be made more environmentally friendly. Sbarro’s work showcased that eco-friendly vehicles didn’t need to rely on expensive or complicated technologies to reduce their impact on the planet. By focusing on simple yet effective strategies like reducing weight and improving aerodynamics, he demonstrated that innovation could come from rethinking the basics rather than relying solely on high-tech solutions.

n the end, the Two For 100 was a reflection of Franco Sbarro’s unique vision and creativity. It wasn’t just a car—it was an exploration of how vehicles could evolve to meet new challenges while staying true to the principles of efficiency and practicality. Even if it didn’t become a mainstream production model, it remains an important piece in the puzzle of automotive history, offering a glimpse into what could be achieved with a different approach. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SBARRO.PHCALVET.FR | RADICAL-MAG ]

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