Griffon Chronicles: Japan's Obscure Sports Car Revolution

Rare ONES - In the realm of automotive allure, the internet serves as a tempting den for enthusiasts. Subscribed to various feeds, we strive to break free from the notion that modern cars are mere commodities. Occasionally, we stumble upon a vehicle that is unfamiliar but captivates our attention.

The 1970 Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon specimen being identified as No. 1. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)

The significance of a car's name extends beyond mere identification; it serves multiple purposes, from commercial branding to conveying the essence of the vehicle. Interestingly, a name intended for a singular car may find itself mirrored elsewhere, creating automotive doppelgangers.

The Griffon, initially named Flying Pegasus for serial production, was crafted by Carrozzeria Watanabe from 1970 to 1984, built upon the foundation of the Honda S600. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)

Consider the Griffon, a name borrowed from a legendary mythological creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle. As discussed earlier, this name graces a sports car from Brazil, designed by Dawilson Lucato and Mario Belatto Jr.

The 1970 Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon powered by S600's 606 cc 4 cylinder engine, generating 57 bhp at a thrilling 8,500 rpm. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)

Surprisingly, the Griffon's existence is not confined to Brazil alone. In Japan, a recent discovery introduces us to the Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon. The 60s witnessed a motorsport frenzy in Japan, prompting the emergence of a domestic industry catering to the demand for speed.

One of the Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffons took on a role in the 1974 Japanese TV series 'Dengeki!! Strada 5.' (Picture from: IMCDB.org)

Masao Watanabe, a wizard in setting up Formula 3 cars, transitioned to crafting his own road/race cars from 1970 to 1984. Subsequently, the company evolved into an alloy wheel/rim manufacturer, maintaining its vitality. The inaugural road car, initially named Flying Pegasus and later rebranded as Griffon for serial production, was based on the Honda S600. However, the term "serial" is loosely applied, as fewer than 10 units were ever produced.

The 1970 Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon showcased improved aerodynamics, enabling it to reach speeds exceeding 160 kph—modest by contemporary supercar standards, yet its exoticism and aesthetics remain timeless. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)

Powered by the S600's 606 cc 4 cylinder engine, generating 57 bhp at a thrilling 8,500 rpm, the Griffon showcased improved aerodynamics, enabling it to reach speeds exceeding 160 kph—modest by contemporary supercar standards, yet its exoticism and aesthetics remain timeless.

While preserving the Honda S600's mechanical core and incorporating fiberglass bodywork, the 1970 Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon justified its premium price with special glass and custom rims. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)

Watanabe sought to market a modified version of the Flying Pegasus through the Griffon, maintaining the mechanical foundation of the Honda S600 while offering fiberglass bodywork as a kit. Its elevated price tag, attributed to specific glazing and specially manufactured rims, resulted in only 4 or 5 units sold, depending on sources. 

The distinctive Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon was constructed on the foundation of a Nissan Fairlady SR311, showcasing a powerful 2-liter engine. (Picture from: Automobiles Japonaises)

Presently, two survivors are known to exist, with the red specimen being identified as No. 1. Approximately 5 units were produced, and one of them took on a role in the Japanese TV series Dengeki!! Strada 5 led to the creation of model replicas.

Another intriguing Griffon variant, though information is scarce, appears to be based on a Nissan Fairlady SR311, featuring a 2-liter engine. Photos of this car, abandoned in a parking lot, hint at its mysterious history, adding to the allure of the Griffon lineage.

In the vast automotive landscape, where each vehicle carries a unique narrative, the Carrozzeria Watanabe Griffon stands as a testament to the pursuit of speed, craftsmanship, and the enduring fascination with automotive aesthetics. As we navigate through the digital realm of automotive eye candy, these discoveries remind us that true gems are often hidden beneath the surface, waiting to be unearthed. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WATCHPROSITE | AUTOMOBILE-JAPONAISES | CCDISCUSSION | IMCDB.ORG | ALLCARINDEX | HEMMINGS ]

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Safety, Style, and Hydrogen: The Allure of Giugiaro VAD.HO

Weird ONES - In the realm of modern car concepts, the Giugiaro VAD.HO stands out, resembling something fresh out of a Hot Wheels collection or a futuristic remote control car one might gift to children during the festive season. A distinctive feature of the VAD.HO is its utilization of the same V12 engine found in the BMW Hydrogen 7, coupled with BMW's 7-speed SMG transmission. The intriguing question arises: a hydrogen-powered V12?

The Italdesign Giugiaro VAD.HO Concept crafted by Italdesign, and unveiled at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from VAD.HO in Facebook)

Contrary to initial impressions, the VAD.HO incorporates a BMW Hydrogen fuel cell that powers a hybrid-electric drivetrain, a characteristic shared by most hydrogen cars. The V12, on the other hand, is likely to be conventionally powered. Unveiled at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show and crafted by Italdesign, the Giugiaro VAD.HO exudes a futuristic aeronautic spirit seldom witnessed in the realm of hydrogen-powered vehicles.

The Italdesign Giugiaro VAD.HO Concept exudes a futuristic aeronautic spirit seldom witnessed in the realm of hydrogen-powered vehicles. (Picture from VAD.HO in Facebook)

This tandem two-seater vehicle presents an unusual seating arrangement, with both the driver and rear passenger positioned on the left side. However, this design flexibility allows for the hydrogen ICE powertrain, located on the right side, to be adapted based on the driving country. The tandem configuration accommodates the challenges posed by the powertrain's significant scale and the required gas tank for the hydrogen propulsion system, typically available only in a cylindrical shape.

The Italdesign Giugiaro VAD.HO Concept presents an unusual tandem two-seater with both the driver and rear passenger positioned on the left side. (Picture from VAD.HO in Facebook)

The closed cockpit design of the Giugiaro VAD.HO boasts futuristic, ergonomically crafted seats, featuring two joysticks on the driver's armrests and drive-by-wire technology that seamlessly integrates with the gaming enthusiast's sensibilities. The joysticks, strategically positioned on the armrests, assist the driver during curves and other demanding driving conditions.

The Giugiaro VAD.HO's closed cockpit design features futuristic, ergonomically crafted seats, equipped with two joysticks on the driver's armrests, seamlessly integrating drive-by-wire technology tailored to gaming enthusiasts. (Picture from Supercars.net)

For the rear passenger, joystick envy is a non-issue, as they also possess a joystick to control two monitors embedded in the back of the driver's seat. This setup enables both driver and passenger to access essential data, including views from cameras mounted on the sides and rear of the vehicle. The data serves various purposes, from parking assistance to nighttime infrared driving, and even interactive communication with roadside infrastructure such as stoplights, when such features become available.

Italdesign Giugiaro VAD.HO Concept incorporates a BMW Hydrogen fuel cell that powers a hybrid-electric drivetrain, a characteristic shared by most hydrogen cars. (Picture from VAD.HO in Facebook)

Safety is a paramount consideration in the Giugiaro VAD.HO's design, featuring four-point seat belts, a roll bar to which the glass cockpit dome attaches, and front and umbrella airbags. The vehicle proudly showcases a new "G" logo then, serving as the company's fresh marketing signature. 

In essence, the Giugiaro VAD.HO is not merely a hydrogen-powered concept car; it represents a harmonious blend of futuristic design, innovative technology, and a commitment to safety. As we peer into the future of automotive innovation, the Giugiaro VAD.HO stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of smart and sustainable mobility. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ITALDESIGN.IT | VADHO IN FACEBOOK | SUPRECARS.NET | HYDROGENCARSNOW | CARREVSDAILY ]

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Rare Gem on Wheels: The Uncommon Allure of Bugatti Cyan

Rare ONES - Entering the challenging era of the 1990s, Bugatti Automobiles, the renowned French car manufacturer, found itself in dire straits. At the time, under the ownership of Romano Artioli, the company had recently released the Bugatti EB110, a sportscar based on Marcello Gandini's design, in hopes of reviving its fortunes.

The Rinspeed Bugatti Cyan built based on the recently unveiled Bugatti EB 100 GT, and made its debut at the 1994 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: Pinterest)

Unrealized Brilliance: The Truncated Journey of Griffon in Brazil

Forgotten ONES - Brazil, which is often overlooked in the global automotive arena, turns out to produce many domestic producers which then make this country an important player in the automotive world. Amidst the myriad of lesser-known automotive creations, one standout is the Griffon, a Brazilian sports car that debuted in the early 1970s, leaving an enduring impression with its distinctive design. The name Griffon is inspired by a legendary mythological creature, boasting the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle.

The Griffon was a Brazilian sports car designed by Dawilson Lucato and Mario Belatto Jr. in the early 1970s, debuted at the 1981 São Paolo Motor Show, and leaving an enduring impression with its distinctive design. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)

The genesis of the Griffon can be traced back to the São Carlos Technical School, Usp, where two former students, Dawilson Lucato and Mario Belatto Jr., embarked on a remarkable journey. Initiated as a practical assignment in 1974, the project took shape slowly, resulting in the creation of two prototypes after nearly seven years of meticulous development.

The Griffon was initiated as a practical assignment of the São Carlos Technical School in 1974, the project took shape slowly, resulting in the creation of two prototypes after nearly seven years of meticulous development. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)

In the initial stages, as the vehicle's fundamental characteristics were being defined, the duo sought assistance from the Aircraft Laboratory of the EESC Department of Mechanical Engineering. This collaboration infused aeronautical concepts into the design, reflecting in the Griffon's aerodynamic and ergonomic features, encapsulated in the iconic wedge shape reminiscent of the 1970s.

The Griffon was based on the Volkswagen Brasília 1600 mechanical platform, although a specialized chassis was concurrently designed to accommodate various engines, adopting a transverse mid-engine layout. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)

The prototype was based on the Volkswagen Brasília 1600 mechanical platform, although a specialized chassis was concurrently designed to accommodate various engines, adopting a transverse mid-engine layout. This engineering marvel produced a vehicle with a commendably low drag coefficient (Cx 0.35), considering the mechanics employed, and a lightweight performance.

The Griffon crafted from fiberglass reinforced plastic, the Griffon's body exhibited not only easy access to mechanical components but also impeccable internal and external finishing. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)

Crafted from fiberglass reinforced plastic, the Griffon's body exhibited not only easy access to mechanical components but also impeccable internal and external finishing. Boasting an efficient ventilation and soundproofing system, concealed windshield wipers and headlights, internal control mirrors, electric windows, and a leather interior, the Griffon was a testament to meticulous craftsmanship.

The Griffon boasting an efficient ventilation and soundproofing system, concealed windshield wipers and headlights, internal control mirrors, electric windows, and a leather interior. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)

In 1981, the Griffon made its debut at the São Paolo Motor Show, captivating automotive enthusiasts with its avant-garde design. However, despite the acclaim, the design and tooling were put up for sale the following year, without any takers.

The Griffon engineering marvel produced a vehicle with a commendably low drag coefficient (Cx 0.35), considering the mechanics employed, and a lightweight performance. (Picture from: ArquivoDoCarroNacional)

Mario Belatto Jr., one of the visionaries behind the Griffon, continued to contribute to the automotive world by participating in the design of other vehicles like the Buggy, Cheda, and Ventura. In the 90s, he harbored plans to include the Griffon in his own factory's production lineup, envisioning a new version with a mid-engine configuration using the Chevrolet Monza chassis.

The Cheda was another Mario Belatto Jr.'s car creation during 1990s. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

Tragically, Mario's sudden demise in 1996, at the age of 42, brought an abrupt end to the Griffon's journey. The untimely loss not only marked the conclusion of Mario's significant contributions to the automotive industry but also closed the chapter on the Griffon, leaving behind a legacy that continues to fascinate enthusiasts and stands as a testament to Brazilian ingenuity in the realm of sports cars. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RARECOMPONENTCARS | ARQUIVODOCARRONACIONAL ]

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French Startup Quarkus Takes on Pikes Peak Challenge

BEAST Candidate - In the realm of sports car development, innovation often stems from established giants in the automotive industry. However, there are instances where the underdogs make a splash, and one such contender is the French startup, Quarkus Automobiles. This car company is defying expectations by venturing into the competitive world of mid-engined sports cars.

The French startup, Quarkus Automobiles is defying expectations by venturing into the competitive world of mid-engined sports cars called the Quarkus P3. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Quarkus set its sights high, announcing its participation in the renowned Pikes Peak Hill Climb. The company plans to utilize this challenging race as a testing ground for its latest creation – the Quarkus P3 sports car, boasting an impressive 296 horsepower. Adding to the intrigue is the involvement of Pikes Peak record holder, Romain Dumas, offering his expertise to enhance the car's performance.

The Quarkus P3 sports car boasting an impressive 296 horsepower takes on Pikes Peak Hill Climb Challenge. (Picture from: Carthrottle)

The Quarkus P3 has remained somewhat enigmatic since the automaker debut in 2020. Unlike many render-based car companies that often promise much but deliver little, Quarkus has set reasonable goals. The car is equipped with a mild hybrid 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 296 horsepower. What may seem modest is offset by the P3's featherweight construction, with a chassis composed of carbon, kevlar, titanium touches, and a 100% carbon fiber body, limiting its weight to just 600 kg (1,323 lbs). The result is a remarkable power-to-weight ratio, standing at 4.5 pounds per horsepower or 493 horsepower per ton.

At the Pikes Peak Hill Climb event in June 2024, the Quarkus P3 sports car will be driven by Bruce Jouanny, an experienced racer with nearly two decades of competitive experience. (Picture from: Carthrottle)

Taking the wheel at Pikes Peak in June 2024 is Bruce Jouanny, a seasoned racer with nearly two decades of competitive experience. Jouanny expresses his enthusiasm for the challenge, stating, "This is a legendary race and fits perfectly with the development of the Quarkus P3. We often talk about life-size tests; we couldn't have dreamed of anything better than Pikes Peak."

Romain Dumas, the Pikes Peak conqueror in 2018 with VW ID R, supports the development of Quarkus P3, anticipating its impact on the challenging Pikes Peak Hill Climb race this June. (Picture from: Carscoops)

CEO Damien Alfano acknowledges the audacity of the plan. He states, "To start the Pikes Peak challenge, while the first development prototype has just been presented, is clearly absurd. No 'startup' manufacturer has done this." Despite the seemingly ambitious nature of the project, Alfano emphasizes Quarkus's philosophy of believing in dreams without limits and sharing the adventure with customers and partners who share the same passion.

The Quarkus P3 has a lightweight contruction because its 100% carbon fiber body is built on a chassis made of carbon, Kevlar, a touch of titanium, which limits its weight to just 600 kg (1,323 lbs). (Picture from: Carscoops)

Romain Dumas, the seasoned racer who conquered Pikes Peak behind the wheel of the VW ID R back in 2018, lends his support to the Quarkus project. This backing raises hopes that Quarkus will indeed make a mark in the challenging Pikes Peak race come June. Let's wait and see.

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In conclusion, Quarkus's journey to Pikes Peak exemplifies the spirit of daring to dream big and pushing boundaries. While skeptics may doubt the capabilities of a small startup, the passion and determination behind Quarkus may just defy expectations and establish them as a force to be reckoned with in the world of sports car innovation. As they navigate the twists and turns of Pikes Peak, Quarkus is not just chasing a victory; they are racing towards the realization of their automotive dreams. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | QUARKUS AUTOMOBILES | CARTHROTTLE | CARSCOOPS ]

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Pagani Huayra R Evo Unique Supercar Powered by 900 HP

New Long-tailed Beast - Pagani Automobili, the renowned Italian supercar manufacturer, has once again raised the bar with the introduction of its latest masterpiece – the Pagani Huayra R Evo. This exquisite creation is an enhanced version of the Huayra R lineup, featuring a distinctive open-top design, aptly termed a targa. Boasting a staggering maximum power output of 900 horsepower, Pagani claims that this new iteration surpasses the ferocity of its predecessor, the Huayra R track car, which made its debut in 2021.

The Pagani Huayra R Evo is an enhanced version of Huayra R featuring a distinctive design, aptly termed a targa. (Picture from: Autoblog)

The genesis of the Huayra R Evo can be traced back to a moment of inspiration experienced by the visionary Horacio Pagani while watching a Formula Indy race in Nashville. A testament to meticulous craftsmanship, this marvel took approximately two years to complete, a timeframe justified by the manufacturer's pursuit of performance levels akin to the current Le Mans Prototype 2 race car.

The Pagani Huayra R Evo is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship that took around 2 years to complete. (Picture from: Autoblog)

Pagani has not only pushed the boundaries of performance but has also incorporated notable improvements. The addition of a pop-out roof panel enhances aerodynamic downforce when removed, resulting in a remarkable 45% increase from the standard configuration. Impressively lightweight at 1,060 kg dry, the Huayra R Evo showcases Pagani's commitment to achieving the perfect balance of power and agility.

The genesis of the Pagani Huayra R Evo can be traced back to a moment of inspiration experienced by the visionary Horacio Pagani while watching a Formula Indy race in Nashville. (Picture from: Autoblog)

The introduction of the "codalunga" (long tail) design element involves extending the front splitter by approximately four inches, seamlessly integrating and supporting the air intake for the cooling system. The rear end, now 7.5 inches longer, features a central stabilizer fin supporting the large rear wing, along with integrated struts. This meticulous redesign contributes to a substantial 45% increase in downforce. The open-top configuration further elevates total downforce by 5%, thanks to increased front and rear vertical loads.

The Pagani Huayra R Evo featuring with the "codalunga" (long tail) design element involves extending the front splitter by approximately four inches, seamlessly integrating and supporting the air intake for the cooling system. (Picture from: Autoblog)

Under the hood, the Huayra R Evo houses the formidable V12 R-Evo engine – a naturally aspirated 6,000 cc V12 configuration. This powerhouse, enhanced with a redesigned intake manifold, new camshaft, and reconfigured exhaust system, delivers an awe-inspiring 900 horsepower and 567 pound-feet (770 Newton-meters) of torque. The bespoke six-speed sequential gearbox, a result of collaboration with HWA AG, weighs a mere 176 pounds.

The Pagani Huayra R Evo has 7.5 inches longer's rear end, coupled with a central stabilizer fin supporting the large rear wing, along with integrated struts. (Picture from: Autoblog)

Ensuring a comfortable ride, the car features a forged aluminum alloy double-wishbone suspension, helical springs, and electronically controlled shock absorbers. The addition of a new heave damper further enhances controllability. 

Braking prowess is provided by the CCM-R auto-ventilated carbon ceramic brakes and custom racing pads. Furthermore, the Huayra R Evo rides on 19-inch front and 20-inch rear rims, enveloped in Pirelli P Zero Slick tires (280/680 R19 at the front and 345/725 R20 at the rear).

Under the hood, the Pagani Huayra R Evo houses the formidable V12 R-Evo engine – a naturally aspirated 6,000 cc V12 configuration. (Picture from: Autoblog)

Stepping inside the cabin, occupants are greeted by seats clad in fire-resistant material, equipped with six-point safety belts and carbon fiber headrests featuring special protection to mitigate serious injuries in case of an unfortunate incident. Pagani's commitment to global markets is evident as the Huayra can be configured with left or right-hand steering depending on the region. | uTiVEBUc49o |

In conclusion, Pagani's Huayra R Evo stands as a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive excellence. This masterpiece seamlessly combines cutting-edge technology, aerodynamic precision, and raw power, offering enthusiasts a driving experience like no other. The Huayra R Evo is not just a car; it's a symphony of engineering brilliance and artistic finesse, destined to leave an indelible mark in the world of high-performance automobiles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PAGANI AUTOMOBILI | ID.MOTOR1 | AUTOBLOG ]

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