Maestro Works The Giovanni Michelloti's name is very famous in the world' automotive, as one of the world's greatest car designers before and after he founded his owned company called Michelotti Studio in 1959.
The Michelotti Lola Ultimo known as the last car creation of Giovanni Michelotti is continued by his son Edgardo following his death in the 1980. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Many of his automotive works have graced various automotive brands ranging from sports cars to trucks. In our beloved Trussty sites, on several occasions we have also discussed the automotive works by the Italian' maestro.
As we all knew, the maestro passed away in January 23, 1980 at the age of 58, left many unfinished car concepts and one of them named the Michelotti Lola Ultimo (the name possibility intends to be rememberance as the Giovanni Michelotti's last car creation).
The Michelotti Lola Ultimo built based on Lola T70 chassis featured with the front of its body and rear ends were made of a single piece of resin strengthened fiberglass.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Reportedly, the Ultimo was commissioned a Canadian entrepreneur and was belatedely shown on the Geneva Auto Salon 1981. Like other the Giovanni Michelotti' unfinished car such Michelotti Pura which came from the same era, the Lola Ultimo built by Michelotti Studio under the direction of Edgardo Michelotti (son of Giovanni Michelotti).
The Michelotti Lola Ultimo was belatedely shown on the Geneva Motor Show 1981. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Ultimo was built based on a Lola T70 chassis featured with the front of its body and rear ends were made of a single piece of resin strengthened fiberglass. As you can see on the Michelotti’s aerodynamic Lola prototype featured an ample glass area providing excellent visibility, aside from the thick B-pillar.
As you can see on the Michelotti Lola Ultimo prototype featured an ample glass area providing excellent visibility, aside from the thick B-pillar. (Picture from: Pinterest)
The passenger area was in a steel structure with aluminum plugging. The front and rear ends were made of a single piece of resin strengthened with fiberglass. As for the drivetrain, unsparingly Michelotti installed an 8.2 liter Chevrolet Corvette V8 mid-mounted engine capable of spitting out 620 hp.
The Michelotti Lola Ultimo is powered by an 8.2 liter Chevrolet Corvette' V8 mid-mounted engine capable of spitting out 620 hp.(Picture from: Pinterest)
Unfortunately, after the Geneva Motor Show 1981 was over there's no news about the existence of this concept car to this day. An almost similar fate happened to the Michelotti Studio after being continued by Edgardo Michelotti, the son of Giovanni until completely closed in 1990.😢
And the last exhibited car of the Michelotti Studio was the Michelotti Villedeuxmille (only as a non functional maquette) shown at the Torino Motor Show 1990 in Turin. After that the name of "Michelotti" seems to vanish out of the circle of the world's car designers to this day. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CARSTYLING.RU | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITITC | WIKIPEDIA ]
📢Maestro Works💰 - One such visionary who made a significant mark in this field is Giovanni Michelotti. Renowned globally, Michelotti’s contributions have spanned numerous automotive brands, showcasing his ability to transform concepts into reality. After founding Michelotti Studio in 1959, his designs left an indelible imprint on the industry, spanning everything from sports cars to trucks.
The Michelotti Clas, introduced in 1986, was a forward-thinking light sports car built with Toyota MR2 components and powered by a 1600cc engine. (Picture from: Carrozzeria-Italiani)
Michelotti’s legacy includes many prototypes, one of the most intriguing being the Michelotti Clas, introduced in 1986. This prototype was a forward-thinking light sports car built using components from the Toyota MR2, powered by a 1600cc engine. The design featured both front and rear baggage compartments, offering surprising storage space for a vehicle of its size. Additionally, there was a space behind the seats, accommodating rear passengers in emergencies, although this was only practical if the driver was shorter than 5'6".
This
prototype not only highlights Michelotti’s technical skill but also his
ability to foresee and adapt to future trends in automotive design. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Clas stood out with its unique cooling system, integrating scoops into the C-pillar to cool the engine efficiently. Its headlights were positioned high on the nose, a distinct design choice. Inside, the Clas maintained a more subdued aesthetic. The seats were upholstered in wool, providing a cozy feel, while the center console borrowed parts from the Toyota MR2 and switches from Lancia models. The dashboard, finished in tweed cloth, contributed to a warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by analog instruments placed strategically behind the steering wheel.
The Michelotti Clas's design featured both front and rear baggage compartments, offering surprising storage space for a vehicle of its size. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Michelotti's approach to design was both innovative and practical, blending style with functionality. His ability to utilize existing components in new ways demonstrated his resourcefulness and vision. The Clas is a testament to his forward-thinking approach, blending performance and comfort in a compact sports car. This prototype not only highlights Michelotti’s technical skill but also his ability to foresee and adapt to future trends in automotive design.
Inside, the Clas featured a subdued aesthetic with wool-upholstered seats for a cozy feel, a center console with parts from the Toyota MR2, and switches from Lancia models. (Picture from: Carrozzeria-Italiani)
The integration of various elements from different car models into the Clas underscored Michelotti's ingenuity. By combining components from Toyota and Lancia, he created a vehicle that was both unique and practical. This fusion of ideas exemplifies the innovative spirit that has driven the automotive industry forward, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.
The
Michelotti Clas is just one example of how his designs have influenced
the evolution of car design, inspiring future generations of designers. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Reflecting on Michelotti's contributions, it becomes clear that his work has had a lasting impact. The Clas is just one example of how his designs have influenced the evolution of car design, inspiring future generations of designers. Michelotti’s legacy is a reminder of the power of creativity and the importance of daring to innovate, even when it means blending seemingly disparate elements into a cohesive whole.
The Michelotti Clas stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision and skill come together in perfect harmony. (Picture from: Carrozzeria-Italiani)
As we look to the future, Michelotti's work continues to inspire. The principles he employed in his designs – creativity, practicality, and a willingness to push boundaries – remain relevant today. His ability to envision what could be, rather than what is, sets a benchmark for aspiring designers. The Clas, with its unique blend of components and thoughtful design, serves as a symbol of Michelotti's enduring influence on the automotive world. | 2Ns7u2GlOb0 |
In the end, the story of Giovanni Michelotti and the Clas prototype is more than just a tale of automotive innovation. It is a celebration of creativity and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Michelotti's ability to turn a concept into a tangible, functional vehicle exemplifies the essence of great design. His legacy lives on, inspiring new generations to dream big and innovate boldly. The Clas stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision and skill come together in perfect harmony. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | ALLCARINDEX | CARSTYLING.RU ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
It's been a great pleasure being with you on this journey.
Thank you.
Extinct Gems - In the vibrant world of automotive history, Italy stands as a stalwart producer of exquisite cars, thanks to its lineage of renowned carriage makers. Names like Pininfarina, Boano, Ghia, Bertone, and Vignale have graced the automotive scene with atypical versions that stand apart from the offerings of major manufacturers. This rich heritage has given rise to a plethora of unique models in the Italian market, showcasing a blend of artistry and engineering prowess.
The Michelotti Boudot Conrero Coupe represents a fusion of French-Italian craftsmanship and ingenuity, and crafted through a collaboration between Giovanni Michelotti, Virgilio Conrero (who created the engine), and Roger Boudot (chassis elements) in 1962. (Picture from: LiveJournal)
Rare ONES - The Jaguar D-Type, an iconic sports racing car produced by Jaguar Cars Ltd. from 1954 to 1957, holds a special place in automotive history. Powered by the renowned Straight-6 XK engine design, initially with a 3.4-liter capacity that was later upgraded to 3.8 liters, the D-Type achieved remarkable success, clinching victory at the prestigious 24-Hour of Le Mans race in consecutive years, from 1955 to 1957.
The Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Michelotti has a body design reminiscent of the classic European GT cars that gained prominence during the 1960s.. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)
After Jaguar's factory racing team temporarily withdrew from competition, the company made a strategic decision to transform the remaining incomplete D-Types into XKSS versions. These XKSS variants were outfitted with supplementary road-friendly features, rendering them eligible for entry into production sports car races throughout the United States.
The remarkbly Jaguar D-Type LeMans Coupe by Michelotti built upon the Jaguar D-Type chassis #XKD513 racing car. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
This fascinating journey takes a twist when we delve into the story of a particular D-Type, chassis #XKD513, which originally rolled off the production line as a 1956 3.4-liter factory Jaguar D-Type. This specific car had a history at the 24-Hours of Le Mans, participating in two consecutive races. However, a tragic crash at the racing event marked a turning point for this car.
Some speculations arose, suggesting that the Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Coupe project embarked on this project to capture the attention of a major British car manufacturer. (Picture from: Autopolis)
In short, the remnants of this D-Type found a new home with coachbuilder Giovanni Michelotti in Turin, Italy. Some speculations arose, suggesting that Michelotti embarked on this project to capture the attention of a major British car manufacturer. Michelotti had previously achieved success in styling various European car models, and this venture aimed to showcase their design prowess.
While the extent of modifications to the engine and chassis of the Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Coupe remains somewhat elusive, the result was undeniably impressive.. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)
Under Michelotti's vision, the D-Type underwent a transformation, receiving a 4.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine, akin to the one found in the E-Type. While the extent of modifications to the engine and chassis remains somewhat elusive, the result was undeniably impressive. The larger wheels and compact proportions hinted at a car that could rival any Jaguar in terms of speed and beauty.
The engine, transmission, and subframes, both front and rear of the Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Coupe by Michelotti, remained faithful to the D-Type's legacy(Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)
Michelotti crafted a body design reminiscent of the classic European GT cars that gained prominence during the 1960s. The elongated hood was a nod to the original Jaguar's wheelbase, while Michelotti's artistic touch drew inspiration from the lines of the Triumph Spitfire. The squared-off tapered rear end evoked hints of the Stagg.
The Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Coupe by Michelotti made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show 1963, showcasing an elegant two-seater coupe body crafted from steel. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)
In 1963, this reimagined D-Type made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, showcasing an elegant two-seater coupe body crafted from steel. Remarkably, this body retained all the original D-Type's dimensions, including the wheelbase. The engine, transmission, and subframes, both front and rear, remained faithful to the D-Type's legacy.
The Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Coupe by Michelotti powered by a 4.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine, akin to the one found in the E-Type. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)
Jaguar, known for its commitment to preserving its design heritage, was heavily invested in Coventry's design direction. Deviating from this path was a rarity, but it raises curiosity about what a modern Jaguar from the 1960s might have looked like. Perhaps subtle adjustments like quad headlights and minor grille modifications could have seamlessly integrated it into the Jaguar design legacy.
The journey of the Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Michelotti saw it change hands multiple times, transitioning from light metallic blue to red and back again before finding its current residence in France. This car serves as a captivating glimpse into the rapidly evolving landscape of European automotive design, particularly in England, where the embrace of modern design language from Italy was a gradual process.
Giovanni Michelotti's studio continued to create cars that embodied the contemporary sensibilities of Europe, with a remarkable portfolio that extended to over 50 models by the time of his passing in 1980. The D-Type Le Mans Michelotti remains a testament to the dynamic spirit of automotive evolution. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FABWHEELSDIGEST | AUTOPOLIS | CARANDDRIVER | SUPERCARNOSTALGIA | CARROZZIERI_ITALIANI ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
WeirdONES In the automotive world, the Giovanni Michelloti's name is very famous as one of the world's greatest car designers. Many of his automotive works have graced various automotive brands in the world ranging from sports cars to trucks. In our beloved Trussty sites, on several occasions we have also discussed the automotive works by the Italian' maestro.
1988 Michelotti Pura is a two seater road going sportscar based on the world championship winning Albatech group C2 race car, built by the Albatech for Michelotti Studio under direction of Edgardo Michelotti designed by Tateo Uchida. (Picture from: Classic and Recreation Sportscars)
As we all knew, the maestro passed away in January 23, 1980. Although the unique car would be discussed was designed and built after the maestro passed away. However it is only propered if the car said to be one of the works ever had created under the great name of Giovanni Michelotti in the late 1980s, due to it's made by the Michelotti Studio, his founded studio of the 1959.
1988 Michelotti Pura is made of the fiber and composite materials and has a glass canopy could slide back or even could also be removed of the vehicle. (Picture from: Classic and Recreation Sportscars)
And the unique car in question was named Michelotti Pura (an Italian word means 'Pure') is the only example of a two seater road going sportscar based on the world championship winning Albatech group C2 race car or effectively, a F3 road car. The car built by Michelotti Studio under the direction of Edgardo Michelotti (son of Giovanni Michelotti), designed by a Japanese designer named Tateo Uchida.
1988 Michelotti Pura is powered by a mid-mounted Alfa Romeo 4-cylinder 1.8-liter turbocharged engine coupled with a ZF 5-speed transmission. (Picture from: MichelottiPura)
The two seater Pura sports car weighed only 1,4313 lbs and powered with a mid-mounted Alfa Romeo 4-cylinder 1.8-liter turbocharged engine coupled with a ZF 5-speed transmission. The light weight was made possible by the vehicle’s body made of the fiber and composite materials. The glass canopy could slide back or even could also be removed of the vehicle. The intenor consisted of a standard instrument panel with analog instruments.
1988 Michelotti Pura prototype is tested and developed in the Fiat wind tunnel, the aerodynamics of the Pura were very ahead of its time for a road car. (Picture from: Classic and Recreation Sportscars)
The
car project done by the Albatech (the Mario Colucci & Georgio Striano's
company), and it is built in carbon fibre and aluminium (carbon-fibre composite
chassis) with ground effect body styling offering a power to weight
ratio of 4,2-3kgs per hp. With the Colucci and Stirano's input, so the Pura
has a real racing pedigree. The prototype is tested and developed in the Fiat wind tunnel, the aerodynamics of the Pura were very ahead of its time for a road car.
The prototype known as the only one model ever made and also has many advanced aerodynamic engineering details that predate of the Lotus Elise or Renault Spider and the McLaren's use of carbon fibre composite in 1992. No wonder, if In general the Pura sports car prototype could be said to be an automotive creation that was born far ahead of its time.
The Pura prototype is a very small compact vehicle and is reminiscent of the Etceterini cars of the 1940's to 1960's is displayed for the first time at the 1988 Torino Motor Show. Currently, the sports car owned by Tony Calo since 1997 and registered for the road-used in the UK. *** [EKA [26042021] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSTYLING.RU | MICHELOTTIPURA | FACEBOOK | EVERYBODYWIKI ]
Unique ONES - The 1950s were a golden era for automotive design, a time when innovation and artistry merged to create vehicles that not only pushed the boundaries of performance but also captured the imagination of the public. This was a time when automotive designers and engineers acted like maestros, transforming dreams into physical masterpieces that could be both admired and questioned.
1954 Fiat 8V 'Demon Rouge' Coupe re-bodied by Vignale and designed by Giovanni Michelotti. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)
It was an era of creativity and boldness, where even the most unconventional designs could find their place on the road. The result? Some of the most unforgettable cars in history, from sleek race cars to quirky, experimental vehicles. One such creation is the 'Demon Rouge,' a car that began its life as a Fiat 8V
before receiving a dramatic transformation. Initially launched in 1952,
the Fiat 8V, or Otto Vu, was designed for the Mille Miglia, a
prestigious Italian racing event.
1954 Fiat 8V 'Demon Rouge' Coupe re-bodied by Vignale and designed by Giovanni Michelotti. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)
The car featured an eight-cylinder engine and came with a hefty price tag—$6,000in the U.S., making it almost twice as expensive as the Jaguar XK120. Despite its cost, Fiatonly built 114 units, making the 8V an exclusive sports car even during its time. Some of these units received custom bodywork from renowned Italian coachbuilders, including Zagato, Ghia, and Vignale.
1954 Fiat 8V 'Demon Rouge' Coupe re-bodied by Vignale and designed by Giovanni Michelotti. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)
The 'Demon Rouge,' re-bodied in 1954 by Carrozzeria Vignale under the direction of Giovanni Michelotti, stands out as one of the most unique and visually arresting examples of the Fiat 8V. Michelotti, a celebrated designer, took the already impressive Fiat and turned it into a car that demands attention with its bold and aggressive styling. The car's nickname, which translates to 'Red Devil,' hints at its fiery character and striking appearance.
1954 Fiat 8V 'Demon Rouge' Coupe re-bodied by Vignale and designed by Giovanni Michelotti. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)
The exterior of the 'Demon Rouge' is a blend of 1950s style and innovation, featuring a two-tone paint scheme, distinctive fins, and wraparound windows that create a sense of fluidity and motion even when the car is standing still. The inset headlights and chrome accents add a touch of elegance, while the lack of bumpers gives the car a sleek, aerodynamic profile. One of the most unusual features is the semi-circular, vertical rear window beneath an extended roofline. This design, intended to keep the rear window clean during rain, was ahead of its time and would later inspire similar features in cars like the Ford Anglia and Citroën Ami.
1954 Fiat 8V 'Demon Rouge' Coupe by Vignale and designed by Giovanni Michelotti. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
The roof, mostly made of Plexiglas, further enhances the car's futuristic feel, giving the impression of openness while maintaining a sleek form. Michelotti's attention to detail extends to elements like the door handles, which are cleverly hidden within the rear pillars. All these design choices come together to create a car that feels both grounded in its era and ahead of its time, a balance that few cars achieve.
1954 Fiat 8V 'Demon Rouge' Coupe by Vignale and designed by Giovanni Michelotti. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Inside, the 'Demon Rouge' offers an equally unique experience. Although specific details about the interior may be hard to come by, it's clear that the car's design was meant to complement its bold exterior. The interior likely features high-quality materials and a layout that emphasizes the car’s sporting pedigree while offering comfort and style.
1954 Fiat 8V 'Demon Rouge' Coupe re-bodied by Vignale and designed by Giovanni Michelotti. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)
Beneath the striking exterior lies a powerful engine, the heart of the Fiat 8V. The eight-cylinder engine, paired with the car’s lightweight design, ensured strong performance, making the 'Demon Rouge' not just a visual masterpiece but a capable sports car as well. This blend of style and performance helped the 'Demon Rouge' earn several accolades throughout its life, including the first prize in the 'Coppa Campione d’Italia' Concours d'Elegance in 1955. In 2004, the car took home the 'Best of Show' award at the Concours d'Elegance at Het Loo Palace in the Netherlands, further solidifying its place in automotive history.
1954 Fiat 8V 'Demon Rouge' Coupe re-bodied by Vignale and designed by Giovanni Michelotti. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Today, the 'Demon Rouge' is a rare gem, a piece of automotive art that stands out even in a world filled with extraordinary cars. It represents a time when car design was as much about creativity and innovation as it was about performance. The car's rarity and unique styling make it one of the most sought-after vehicles by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
As you reflect on the 'Demon Rouge,' it’s easy to wonder what other unusual and unique custom cars are out there, each with its own story and distinctive character. Every custom-built car, especially from this golden era, tells a story of bold decisions and artistic vision, leaving a lasting impact on the world of automotive design. *** [EKA [04102020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | COACHBUILD.COM | CARSTYLING.RU | JALOPNIK.COM | HISTORICAUTOPRO.COM | FABWHEELSDIGEST ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Unique ONES In the 1960s era, the Ferrari cars always dominated in various world racing events. And one of the iconic prancing horse logoed race cars of the 1960s was the Ferrari 250 P Fantuzzi Spyder, which was the first 12-cylinder mid-engined Ferrari race car and was debuted at Monza on March 4, 1963.
1968 Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale designed by Michelotti and was built on the chassis of the 1963 275 P2 race car. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
The Ferrari 250 P race car did not take long to establish its name on the track, the most prestigious victories came at Sebring, Le Mans, and the Nürburgring throughout 1963 and 1964. No less interesting, it turns out that from this race car was born later another no less famous sportscar called the Ferrari 275 P2, and it was newly from here that the car we are talking about was born.
The iconic car mentioned above came about thanks to the interactions, and the work of four key figures such as, Luigi 'Coco' Chinetti Jr., Robert Peak (the famous American commercial artist and illustrator with iconic film posters and advertisements made between the 1960s to 1980s) , Giovanni Michelotti, and of course the big boss of the Prancing Horse brand, Enzo Ferrari!
1968 Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale designed by Michelotti based off Bob Peak's sketches on the initiative of Coco Chinetti Jr. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
It could be said that Luigi Chinetti Jr. (the son of Luigi Chinetti Sr., a former racer, business partner and friend of Enzo Ferrari since they were at Alfa Romeo) has major roles in this cases. Thanks to his efforts in the early 60s whose managed to persuade Enzo Ferrari to give permission to build a special version of Ferrari specifically aimed to the American market. And the results are also not bad, this is seen through the quite high popularity of the Chinetti Jr. car.
The Chinetti Jr. sportscar which debuted at the 1968 New York Auto Show, known as Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale was a Ferrari rear-engined racing sports prototype built on the basis of the Ferrari 275 P2. As quoted from the CarstylingRU, the donor car was the 1963 Ferrari 275 P2 sports racing unit (chassis number #0812) which had raced and succeded at three major World Championship races in 1964: Sebring, Nurburgring and Le Mans.
Unfortunately, the car had an accident and caught fire in late of the 1965, and turned out that the race car caught the attention of Luigi Chinetti Jr. to rebuild it. At the same time Coco Chinetti Jr. had managed to find a potential buyer, so he contacted his old friend Bob Peak to sketch a futuristic-styled 2-seater sportscar.
1968 Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale designed by Michelotti was inspired by the design of the AMT Piranha Spy Car. (Picture from: Allcarindex)
Indeed the client wanted a car designed in a style inspired by the sportscar of the future (named the AMT Piranha Spy Car) featured in a popular 1960s American TV series entitled The Man from U.N.C.L.E. It was later found that the client who funded the project was a young woman.
After the car sketches finished, Robert Peak and Coco Chinetti Jr. went to Milan to meet Giovanni Michelotti and asked him to build this sports car based on a previously drawn sketch by Peak. After going through quite tough discussions and negotiations, at that time Michelotti refused and made Chinetti Jr. very disappointed and upset.
Then Coco Chinetti Jr. met Enzo Ferrari (through the help of his father Luigi Chinetti Sr. off course) to tell Michelotti's refusal and at the same time presented the great potential of his project. In short, then Enzo Ferrari decided to help Coco Chinetti Jr. to make the project into reality.
The authenticity of the Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale was doubted so that Coco Chinetty Jr. was sued in court by Ferrari in 1999. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
After the Ferrari's big boss spoke to Giovanni Michelotti, the designer finally agreed to build a prancing horse racing car at the factory. Then the donor car which was partially damaged and burned was sent to Italy from Canada. Then the chassis was repaired, a new engine was placed in the car, and a new body and interior were installed by Michelotti.
Finally, a "new" Ferrari concept was born which originated from the Bob Peak sketches. It's the 275 P2 updated design, with a smoother, more curved front end and a more luxurious body and interior similar to a true Grand Turismo!
The car is not only exotic featured with a pair of gull wing styled doors and is also quite comfortable to drive because it is powered by a 4-liter V12 engine capable of producing up to 410 hp at 8,000 rpm, theoretically it can make the sportscar accelarates up to 300 kph. Wow!!
1968 Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale designed by Michelotti is powered by a 4-liter V12 engine capable of producing up to 410 hp at 8,000 rpm, theoretically can make the car accelarates up to 300 kph. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)
That was the birth process of the Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale by Michelotti, which was inspired by an exclusive, cinematic mid-engined sportscar called the AMT Piranha Spy Car, but it has an appereance several times fancier and cooler. Unfortunately, only one car was built in the time, which is not surprising in principle, if the Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale could be said as one of the great concept cars to date.
We apologize that the following video is not about the Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale but about the Ferrari 275 P2.
The car's story continued, when in 1999, Luigi Chinetti Jr. sent 2 units of Ferrari 275 P2 Speciale (with chassis numbers #0812 and #0814) for reconstruction by Marco Baldi of Protauto in Sorbara near Modena, Italy. However, those reconstructions were not easy, due to the Maranello-based car manufacturer doubted the authenticity of the cars.
So then Ferrari filed a lawsuit against Luigi Chinetti Jr. with a claim that those two cars are replicas and asked to be confiscated by the court order. After undergoing the trial process over more than 3 years, Ferrari finally lost the lawsuit and the court ruled to recognize that those two cars are original cars.
And the last exhibited car of the Michelotti Studio was the Michelotti Villedeuxmille (only as a non functional maquette) shown at the Torino Motor Show 1990 in Turin. After that the name of "Michelotti" seems to vanish out of the circle of the world's car designers to this day. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CARSTYLING.RU | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITITC | WIKIPEDIA ] 
