Hot MERAK Ever - In the early 1970s, Maserati, a name synonymous with exotic cars, introduced the Merak, a mid-engined supercar that followed the success of its predecessor, the Bora. Launched in 1972, the Merak set its sights on rivaling Ferrari's popular Dino 246. Beneath its sleek exterior, the Merak featured a stretched version of Maserati's four-cam V6 engine, which had initially debuted in the Citroën SM.
This one-of-a-kind Maserati Merak has become one of the most desirable sports cars of its era thanks to the foresight and design skills of Carrosserie Saurer in Switzerland. (Picture from: AmazoEffect)
Designed by the brilliant Giulio Alfieri, the V6 underwent a capacity increase from the SM's 2,675 cc to 2,965 cc for the Merak, delivering an impressive 190 bhp and achieving a top speed of around 150 mph. The chassis, independent suspension, and exceptional handling echoed the V8-powered Bora, with cost-cutting modifications such as replacing the tubular rear subframe with an extension of the all-steel monocoque.
Under the visionary Paul Saurer, Carrosserie Saurer meticulously redesigned the bodywork, showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship in aluminum. (Picture from: Maserati-Alfieri.co.uk)
Considered one of the finest contemporary V6 engines, the Merak's power delivery was smooth and potent, complementing its remarkable acceleration and top speed. Motor magazine praised its cornering power, emphasizing the harmony between performance and handling, establishing the Merak as the most successful Maserati of its time. Production ceased in 1983 after only 1,832 units rolled off the assembly line.
It's
considered a 'Hot Merak,' featuring fixed headlights to replace the
original flip-up design, accompanied by a custom grille adorned with
round fog lights.(Picture from: Mad4Wheels)
Taking a unique turn, a specific 1975 Merak stands out from the typical narrative. Originally a left-hand drive Italian-supplied model, it underwent a transformative restoration by Carrosserie Saurer in Switzerland in 1984.
The side profile of the Maserati Merak by Saurer reveals widened fenders and a distinctive rocker panel. (Picture from: AmazoEffect)
Under the visionary Paul Saurer, Carrosserie Saurer meticulously redesigned the bodywork, showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship in aluminum. This modification wasn't a mere plastic addition but a testament to Saurer's expertise, elevating the Merak to new heights.
Adorned in silver with a red interior, the Maserati Merak by Saurer retains a familiar appearance with subtle yet impactful modifications. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Adorned in silver with a red interior, the Maserati Merak by Saurer retains a familiar appearance with subtle yet impactful modifications, and regarded as a 'Hot Merak' ever. Fixed headlights replace the original flip-up design, accompanied by a custom grille featuring round fog lights. The side profile reveals widened fenders and a unique rocker panel.
Retaining the original running gear, it features a rear-mid mounted 190bhp 3.0-liter four-cam V6 drivetrain. (Picture from: Maserati-Alfieri.co.uk)
Retaining the original running gear, a rear-mid mounted 190bhp 3.0-liter four-cam V6 drivetrain, the revamped model now features exceptionally rare 12-inch and 15-inch Gotti 3-piece split rim wheels, wrapped in bespoke 345x35 tires.
Today, this unique Carrossieri Saurer' masterpiece stands as a testament to the fusion of Italian elegance, French innovation, and Swiss craftsmanship. (Picture from: Maserati-Alfieri.co.uk)
After its revival, the car spent years in Switzerland and Spain before making its way to the UK in 2009. Displayed at prestigious UK Concours and events, including the Graypaul Maserati UK Concours and the Octane Magazine Windsor Concours D'Elegance, this unique motorcar is well-documented and a standout addition to any serious collection. Regrettably, we were unable to locate a video featuring Saurer's Peacock. Instead, there is only this video available. Hope You enjoy it.
Today, this unique Carrossieri Saurer' masterpiece stands as a testament to the fusion of Italian elegance, French innovation, and Swiss craftsmanship—a must-have for any discerning collector. As quoted from Iconic Auctioneers, the Merak by Saurer sold for: £45,700 at the International Trophy Sale 2013. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ICONICAUCTIONEERS | CARSCOOPS | MOTORTREND | JALOPNIK | MAD4WHEELS | THEAMAZOEFFECT | MASERATI-ALFIERI.CO.UK ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
ONE-OFF - The fascinating tale of a remarkable sports car unfolds with the history of Glas, an independent German car manufacturer renowned for its iconic Goggomobil microcar. In 1964, Glas introduced the 1300GT coupe, followed by the 1700GT, designed by the famed Italian automotive designer Pietro Frua.
The exclusive BMW-Glas 3000 V8 Fastback by Carrozzeria Frua debuted at the 1967 Frankfurt Auto Show. (Picture from: RM Sothebys)
Facing financial challenges, Glas was eventually acquired by BMW in September 1966. BMW rebranded the company as BMW-Glas, unveiling the 3000 V8 Coupe model, affectionately known as the 'Glaserati' due to its striking resemblance to the Maserati Quattroporte, also crafted by Frua. Notably, Pietro Frua's association with Glas persisted even after BMW's acquisition.
The exclusive BMW-Glas 3000 V8 Fastback by Carrozzeria Frua was the sole model featuring BMW's distinctive 'double kidney' grille.. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Despite its captivating design, only 418 units of the BMW-Glas 3000 V8 Coupe were manufactured between September 1967 and May 1968. In addition to the standard production model, Frua devised various experimental prototypes, including the exclusive BMW-Glas 3000 V8 Fastback—the sole model featuring BMW's distinctive 'double kidney' grille.
The interior of the BMW-Glas 3000 V8 Fastback underwent a transformation, featuring genuine-leather upholstery that harmonizes seamlessly with a new silver-blue metallic paint job. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
While the 158bhp coupe received praise, it never went into production because BMW chose to prioritize its 3.0 CS coupe. The fastback coupe, first revealed at the 1967 Frankfurt Auto Show, continued to make appearances at subsequent events, including the Paris Motor Show in 1967, Geneva in 1968, and Barcelona in 1969. Eventually, the car found its way to a private owner after being painted red for the Barcelona show.
The BMW-Glas 3000 V8 Fastback by Carrozzeria Frua powered by a 3.0-liter V8 engine, coupled with four-speed manual transmission system. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
To create an illusion of multiples, BMW presented the car in red at the Barcelona show, deviating from its original metallic blue. After two decades in the initial owner's collection, the vehicle transitioned to an employee, undergoing an extensive restoration, receiving a revamped interior, and a fresh coat of silver-blue metallic paint.
The BMW-Glas 3000 V8 Fastback by Carrozzeria Frua looked a little too close to Maserati designs, but it was much sleeker and lacked the large Quattroporte-style headlights. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
In 2015, enthusiasts had the opportunity to bid on this distinctive car at an RM Sothebys event in Villa Erba, Italy. Despite an estimated price tag of €380,000 - €480,000, the car remained unsold by the end of the auction.
This enigmatic piece of automotive history, with its unique blend of design and heritage, continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike, embodying the essence of an era when craftsmanship and innovation converged in the world of automobiles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RM SOTHEBYS | SILODROME | UNCRATE | AUTOWEEK ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Affordable ONES - Venturing into Slovakia, a country nestled in Eastern Europe, unveils a rich automotive history that once featured the prominence of Tatra, tightly intertwined with its Czech counterparts. While hydrogen-fueled supercars, exemplified by the MATADOR Group's MH2 in 2022, have made waves, our focus today shifts to a conventional-fueled gem. This masterpiece emerged in 2017 from the stables of Brutal Car, a Slovakian startup, and stands out for being touted as one of the most economically accessible supercars in the market.
The Brutal S1 is the first car from Slovakian upstart automaker Brutal, rests upon a tubular-frame chassis, adorned with a body meticulously fashioned from a blend of fiberglass, carbon-fiber, and specially curated 'Airex' foam. (Picture from: CarSales)
Brutal, the startup in question, proudly introduced its Brutal S1 supercar, anticipating an annual delivery of up to six units. Drawing inspiration from the acclaimed Ariel Atom, the S1, weighing a mere 900kg, is propelled by a robust 221kW (300hp) Subaru STI-sourced 2.0-liter turbo boxer engine. Remarkably, the S1 claims a blistering 0-100km/h acceleration in under 3.9 seconds. Notably, Brutal envisions a trio of variants: the track-oriented R1, the hands-on P1 designed for the DIY enthusiasts, and the S1 itself.
Contrary to the impression given by its gullwing doors, the S1 is not intended to be flashy. (Picture from: FuelsAndLubes)
While the acceleration might not break contemporary supercar speed records, and the prospect of right-hand drive production remains unconfirmed, the founder of Brutal Car, Marian Lušpai, has yet to disclose the exact pricing, though estimates hover around $49,000. What awaits potential buyers, however, is a no-nonsense, mid/rear-engined compact coupe, featuring distinctive roof-hinged gullwing doors and a paint finish crafted by the esteemed German automotive paint specialist Spies Hecker.
The interior of the Brutal S1 showcases a stripped-down design, focusing solely on the essentials, minimalistic approach, coupled with a pre-installed roll cage adds an extra layer of safety. (Picture from: TrendHunter)
A culmination of a decade-long journey, the two-seater S1 rests upon a tubular-frame chassis, adorned with a body meticulously fashioned from a blend of fiberglass, carbon-fiber, and specially curated Airex foam. The sleek wedge-shaped design, a brainchild of Jakub Štarman, who once studied at the Academy of Art and Design in Bratislava and currently lends his talents to Skoda, encapsulates the essence of Brutal's vision.
Weighing in at just 900kg, the Brutal S1 is powered by a robust 221kW (300hp) Subaru STI-sourced 2.0-liter turbo boxer engine. (Picture from: TrendHunter)
Eschewing power steering, power windows, anti-lock brakes, and likely advanced driver safety aids, the S1 stands as a testament to Lušpai's commitment to a pure driving experience. A trained engineer himself, Lušpai acknowledges that the Brutal S1 isn't your run-of-the-mill grocery-getter. It's a racing marvel meticulously engineered for peak performance, sourcing components directly from the world of motor racing, including the brakes and sections of the suspension. Essentially, it's a pedigreed racing car granted the license for conquering public roads.
The Slovakian automaker decide to produce the Brutal S1 only six units annually, with an estimated price hovering around $49,000. (Picture from: TrendHunter)
Lušpai, reflecting on the S1, shares, “Of course, the Brutal S1 is not a car you would take to the supermarket. It is a racing machine engineered for high performance. That’s its essence. Many of the parts come from motor racing, such as the brakes and sections of the suspension. It is basically a thoroughbred racing car that is licensed for use on public roads."
Acknowledging the heightened interest in the Brutal S1, Lušpai sets a realistic production cap of six vehicles annually, understanding the exclusive appeal and specialized nature of his creation. As Brutal takes its stride in the realm of supercars, the S1 stands as a testament to Slovakian ingenuity and a thrilling proposition for those seeking an uncompromising, high-performance driving experience. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BRUTALCAR | BRATISLAVAMOTORCITY | CARBUZZ | CARSALES | CARRUSHOME | TRENDHUNTER | FUELSANDLUBES ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Innovation&Style - In the ever-evolving landscape of urban mobility, the world is witnessing a fascinating fusion of cutting-edge design and sustainable technology. While the realm of electric scooters typically veers away from the sleek aesthetics associated with superbikes, exceptions do exist, breathing new life into the concept of two-wheeled city transport.
The Vmoto APD is a groundbreaking electric scooter concept that challenges the status quo, designed by the renowned Italian design house, Pininfarina. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Hailing from the vibrant city of Perth, Australia, Vmoto, an innovative electric motorbike manufacturer, has captured the essence of this paradigm shift. Their collaboration with the renowned Pininfarina Centro Stile, has given birth to the Vmoto APD Concept, a groundbreaking electric scooter that challenges the status quo. Unveiled at the prestigious EICMA 2023 exhibition in Italy, this visionary creation, a follow-up to the Vmoto Soco launched last February, hints at a future production model set to revolutionize Vmoto's lineup.
The Vmoto APD hints at a future production model set to revolutionize Vmoto's lineup, and unveiled at the EICMA 2023 in Milan. (Picture from: KabarOto)
In the realm of electric scooters, where functionality meets style, the Vmoto APD Concept stands as a formidable contender, poised to rival the likes of the BMW CE04. Positioned as a 'Maxi Scooter,' this two-wheeled marvel boasts a generously sized saddle and the option of an additional storage compartment, catering to the practical needs of urban commuters.
The Vmoto APD scooter exhibits a fusion of sharp lines, slender LEDs, interwoven surfaces, and a multi-colored aesthetic. (Picture from: KabarOto)
What sets the Vmoto APD Concept apart is its meticulous design, crafted with a keen eye on aerodynamics. Leveraging Pininfarina's expertise and their state-of-the-art wind tunnel, the scooter exhibits a fusion of sharp lines, slender LEDs, interwoven surfaces, and a multi-colored aesthetic. The result is a visually striking, futuristic masterpiece that doesn't veer too far into the realms of science fiction.
A notable highlight is the 'Kammback' tail, featuring curved LED taillights that add a retro-futuristic flair. (Picture from: KabarOto)
A notable highlight is the 'Kammback' tail, featuring curved LED taillights that add a retro-futuristic flair. This attention to detail extends to a unique accessory—an innovative bag that seamlessly integrates with the saddle, providing additional storage space for personal items. The bag's design not only enhances functionality but also includes a larger, removable rear compartment for added convenience.
While Vmoto has kept the specifications of the scooter's electric powertrain under wraps, teasing enthusiasts with the promise of a debut in 2024, it is anticipated to follow in the footsteps of its predecessors, likely being manufactured in China.
As urban landscapes evolve and the demand for sustainable transportation solutions grows, the Vmoto APD Concept emerges as a symbol of innovation and style in the realm of electric scooters. With its futuristic design, practical features, and a nod towards environmental consciousness, this electric marvel paves the way for a new era of urban mobility, where every ride becomes a statement of sustainability and sophistication.
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops....... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VMOTO| EICMA| RIDEAPART | CARSCOOPS ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Maestro WORKS - Living in a world abundant with creative minds, we're fortunate to witness the brilliance of designers who bring innovative ideas to life. Among them, Luigi Colani a renowned German-born Swiss designer stands out as a charismatic and colorful figure in contemporary industrial organic design. Throughout his works, which spanned from the early 1950s to 2019, Colani not only envisioned future products but also passionately shared his insights with anyone willing to listen.
Colani's BMW 700 prototype, initially a small car, evolved into the world's pioneer road sports car with a load-bearing plastic monocoque body. (Picture from: WeirdWheel)
The realm of Colani's unique creations is vast and extends beyond the automotive world. From aviation and buildings to household furnishings, his influence has been felt across various sectors. Even though he is no longer with us, the legacy of this German designer continues to inspire awe and curiosity, with his works leaving an indelible mark on the modern industrial landscape.
Beyond its revolutionary body architecture, Colani's BMW 700 prototype boasted a streamlined body with an impressive drag coefficient of Cd = 0.22. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Now, let's delve into the story of 2 rare BMW car models that remains largely less-known to the public, a testament to Colani's ability to push the boundaries of design and captivate our imaginations.
Colani's BMW 700 prototype boasts a distinctive feature—its unconventional entry and exit method, where the car's entire center opens forward, facilitated by a hinge located under the windshield. (Picture from: LuigiColaniDesign)
In 1963, Colani made headlines by unveiling the world's first road sports car featuring a load-bearing plastic monocoque body. This groundbreaking design was implemented on the chassis of the BMW 700, a small car that became the canvas for Colani's revolutionary vision. During an era when similar technology was just emerging in Formula 1, Lotus Racing Team secured championship titles in 1963 using comparable innovations.
1963 Small sportscar Colani BMW 700. Cutaway automotive art drawing by Vladyslav Shapovalenko on FineArtAmerica. (Picture from: LuigiColaniDesign)
Beyond its revolutionary body architecture, Colani's prototype boasted a streamlined body with an impressive drag coefficient (Cd) = 0.22. Despite weighing a mere 440 kilograms and housing a miniature 700 cc engine producing 32 horsepower, the BMW 700 Colani achieved a remarkable top speed of 200 kilometers per hour. While the project garnered attention and surprised BMW, it never transitioned to mass production, remaining a singular and exceptional creation.
In 1981, Luigi Colani envisioned his unique path with the BMW M2 Prototype, offering an alternative proposal to Guigiaro's BMW M1.. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Fast forward to the 1980s, and Colani's creative alliance with BMW rekindled. The BMW M1, which met its demise in 1981, left enthusiasts eagerly anticipating a successor. Before the Stuttgart-based automaker BMW teased enthusiasts with the M1 Homage Concept, Luigi Colani had already envisioned his own path, drawing inspiration from his GT80 concept car unveiled in 1979.
Colani's
BMW M2 prototype primarily a styling exercise that charted a revolutionary course for BMW's flagship model, and debuted at the 1981 Paris Motor Show. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
In 1981, Colani presented his BMW M2 design, primarily a styling exercise that charted a revolutionary course for BMW's flagship model, and also as an alternative proposal for Guigiaro's BMW M1, envisioned for Le Mans race driver Jean Rondeau. Regrettably, this conceptual design offered no possibility for mass production. Colani's emphasis on the car's aerodynamic form was evident, produced as a single unit without a drivetrain, and debuted at the 1981 Paris Motor Show.
Next Chapter - In the early years of the new millennium, SAAB Automobile unveiled a concept car that not only mesmerized automotive enthusiasts with its striking design but also created a significant buzz owing to its unparalleled uniqueness.
The SAAB Aero-X Cocncept signifying a new chapter for SAAB's design department, unveiled at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: SAABPlanet)
Despite SAAB's prior success in crafting distinctive and innovative cars on a constrained budget during that era, it couldn't escape the clutches of capitalism. Economic pressures compelled the company to surrender, bringing an end to car production at the onset of the last decade.
It propelled SAAB's design trajectory into the extraordinary by drawing inspiration from the world of aviation, deeply rooted in the brand's identity. (Picture from: Drive.com.au)
This development not only nullified SAAB's earlier attempts to cultivate a loyal fan base but also marked the loss of potential stemming from its final masterpiece—the SAAB Aero-X, unveiled at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show, signifying a new chapter for SAAB's design department.
Rather than simply adhering to the brand's established design language, the Aero-X transcended its role as a product showcase. It propelled SAAB's design trajectory into the extraordinary by drawing inspiration from the world of aviation, deeply rooted in the brand's identity.
The SAAB Aero-X Cocncept retains the recognizable SAAB front fascia, the rear styling pays homage to legendary sports cars like the C3 Corvette roadster or the Jaguar XKE. (Picture from: Drive.com.au)
SAAB proudly highlights the extensive use of carbon fiber in constructing this unique concept car. While retaining the recognizable SAAB front fascia, the rear styling pays homage to legendary sports cars like the Corvette C3 roadster or the Jaguar XKE. The wheels, in turn, mimic the impellers of a jet turbine.
Beneath its sleek exterior, the Aero-X houses a twin-turbo ethanol-fueled V6 engine, delivering a robust 400 horsepower, with a 0-60 time of just 4.9 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to a 'sensible' 155 mph.
One of the most intriguing features of the Saab Aero-X is its unconventional entry and exit method, where the car's entire center ascends. (Picture from: SAABPlanet)
One of the most intriguing features of the Aero-X is its unconventional entry and exit methods. Rejecting the conventional side-opening doors or the popular scissor doors found on supercars, the car's entire center ascends, resembling the cockpit canopy of a fighter jet or a spacecraft from a sci-fi universe. Inside, the driver and passenger enjoy unimpeded 180-degree views due to the absence of any A-pillars.
The SAAB Aero X's interior boasts a sleek Scandinavian design, free from traditional gauges or buttons. (Picture from: SAABPlanet)
The Aero X's interior boasts a sleek Scandinavian design, free from traditional gauges or buttons. Instead, 'Clear Zones' are employed to present information to the driver through 3D images. The use of LED technology in both the exterior and interior lighting of the Aero X concept marks a significant advancement—a feature SAAB asserts will soon be integrated into its upcoming products.
The SAAB Aero-X powered by a twin-turbo ethanol-fueled V6 engine, delivering a robust 400 horsepower, with a 0-60 time of just 4.9 seconds, and top speed of 155 mph. (Picture from: SAABPlanet)
Furthermore, following the debut of the Aero-X, the Swedish manufacturer showcased the SAAB PhoeniX Concept at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. Unfortunately, both the Aero-X and PhoeniX Concepts now stand as mere displays, serving as poignant reminders of the technological triumphs of this once-prominent Swedish manufacturer.
Currently, SAAB is on a quest for resurgence, having partnered with China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group. However, reports suggest that the collaboration is grappling with financial challenges, underscoring the ongoing struggles faced by the Swedish company in its pursuit of revival. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SAABPLANET | SLASHGEAR | DRIVE.COM.AU | WIKIPEDIA | CARSCOOPS ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Designed by the brilliant Giulio Alfieri, the V6 underwent a capacity increase from the SM's 2,675 cc to 2,965 cc for the Merak, delivering an impressive 190 bhp and achieving a top speed of around 150 mph. The chassis, independent suspension, and exceptional handling echoed the V8-powered Bora, with cost-cutting modifications such as replacing the tubular rear subframe with an extension of the all-steel monocoque.
Taking a unique turn, a specific 1975 Merak stands out from the typical narrative. Originally a left-hand drive Italian-supplied model, it underwent a transformative restoration by Carrosserie Saurer in Switzerland in 1984.
Today, this unique Carrossieri Saurer' masterpiece stands as a testament to the fusion of Italian elegance, French innovation, and Swiss craftsmanship—a must-have for any discerning collector. As quoted from Iconic Auctioneers, the Merak by Saurer sold for: £45,700 at the International Trophy Sale 2013. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ICONICAUCTIONEERS | CARSCOOPS | MOTORTREND | JALOPNIK | MAD4WHEELS | THEAMAZOEFFECT | MASERATI-ALFIERI.CO.UK ]
