ONE-OFF - Even if you have heard about it before, we are sure that some of you might not be familiar with it. The Italian coachbuilder Pietro Frua created the only four-door Lamborghini in existence in 1978. Known as the Frua Faena, this unique vehicle was built on a reinforced 1974 Espada Series II chassis (nr. 18224). The name Faena is derived from bullfighting; it signifies a series of passes performed by a matador using his sword and cape to demonstrate skill before the bull meets its end.
The Frua Faena, crafted by Italian coachbuilder Pietro Frua in 1978, is the only four-door Lamborghini ever made. (Picture from: OldCarConcept)
Pietro Frua took eight months to craft this four-door Lamborghini, stretching the standard Espada chassis by 178 mm (7 inches) to accommodate rear seats, resulting in a car that measured 4586 mm (18 feet) in length. This modification added 200 kg (440 pounds) to the total weight.
The 1978 Lamborghini Frua was crafted based on an elongated chassis of the 1974 Lamborghini Espada 400GT. (Picture from: Hagerty)
The Frua Faena made its debut at the 57th Salone Internazionale dell’Automobile in Turin during the spring of 1978, and evoked a range of reactions. Some visitors were captivated by its design, while others were less impressed. However, automotive journalist Max Stoop noted, "Frua managed once more to put a four-door, elongated Berlina on a Gran Turismo chassis and to equip it with four comfortable seats without compromising the car's shape."
The Frua Faena measured 4586 mm (18 feet) in length, with the modifications adding 200 kg (440 pounds) to its total weight. (Picture from: OldCarConcept)
It was shown again to the public at the 1980 Geneva Auto Show. The car's front lines were clean, featuring large headlights in twin pop-up units, but the rear design was less appealing, despite including a sliding sunroof. This feature contrasted with the unusual glass panel found on a specific Espada model.
The Frua Faena made its debut at the 57th Salone Internazionale dell’Automobile in Turin during the spring of 1978, and evoked a range of reactions. (Picture from: OldCarConcept)
Despite being described as a four-door coupé, the Faena had many characteristics of a shooting-brake, or estate car. Like the Espada, its hatchback cargo compartment was open to the rear seat passengers. Unfortunately, the Frua Faena was not a commercial success. Although it was expertly built, Frua's hope for limited production did not materialize, making this show car the only one ever produced.
Although described as a four-door coupé, the Faena had many characteristics of a shooting-brake or estate car. (Picture from: OldCarConcept)
After the Geneva Auto Show, the Faena was sold to Lambo-Motor AG in Basel, which then sold it to a German collector. This collector still owns the car, although it remains registered in Switzerland. In 1996, the Faena was displayed at the Pullicino Classics in London, where it was admired in very good condition despite not being restored.
The Frua Faena's hatchback cargo compartment was open to the rear seat passengers. (Picture from: OldCarConcept)
The story of the Frua Faena is a testament to the innovative spirit and craftsmanship of Pietro Frua. It stands as a unique piece of automotive history, embodying the creativity and ambition of its creator. While it never saw mass production, the Faena remains a fascinating chapter in Lamborghini's storied legacy, a reminder of what can be achieved when vision and skill converge. | 8cppoBl6FrM |
For those lucky enough to see it in person, the Frua Faena is a striking example of automotive artistry, an enduring symbol of a bygone era in car design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PIETRO-FRUA.DE | OLDCONCEPTCARS | MYCARQUEST | LAMBOCARS | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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📢New BEAST - The automotive world is evolving rapidly, with groundbreaking developments occurring globally. This dynamic landscape has fueled fierce competition among industry players, pushing them to showcase their most impressive creations, particularly in the realm of supercars. The latest entrant in this high-octane race is the Adamastor Furia, a supercar from Portugal that is making waves for its bold ambition and distinctive engineering.
The Adamastor Furia, acclaimed as Portugal's inaugural supercar, shares a visual likeness with the Valkyrie from afar. (Picture from: RevistaCars)
For those not inclined to shell out approximately £2.5 million for an Aston Martin Valkyrie, the Adamastor Furia offers a compelling alternative. Priced at €1.6 million plus tax, this supercar comes from an unknown startup, yet it promises to deliver an exhilarating performance on par with some of the industry's stalwarts.
The Adamastor Furia features a lightweight carbon fiber chassis, resulting in a sleek pre-fluid weight of around 1,100kg. (Picture from: TopGear)
The Adamastor Furia, touted as Portugal's first supercar, bears a resemblance to the Valkyrie when viewed from a distance. Its power comes from a Ford-sourced 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, producing around 650bhp and 421lb ft of torque. This robust engine is complemented by a lightweight carbon fiber chassis, giving the Furiaa svelte pre-fluid weight of about 1,100kg.
The
Adamastor Furia stands out with its aerodynamics, including a Venturi
effect floor that generates a downforce of 1,000kg at 155mph. (Picture from: RevistaCars)
These specifications translate to impressive performance metrics: a top speed exceeding 186mph and a 0-100mph acceleration time of approximately 3.5 seconds. While these numbers are impressive, they don't quite break new ground in the supercar arena.
One of the Furia's standout features is its aerodynamics, notably the Venturi effect floor, which contributes to a downforce figure of 1,000kg at 155mph. To enhance driving stability and control, the car is equipped with ABS and traction control systems.
For enhanced driving stability and control, the Adamastor Furia comes equipped with advanced ABS and traction control systems. (Picture from: TopGear)
Adamastor plans to produce only 60 units of the Furia, assuming they can secure enough buyers. The company ambitiously aims to compete with renowned brands such as Aston Martin, Pagani, Koenigsegg, and Rimac.
Adamastor P003RL, launched in 2018 by the Portuguese automotive firm, is their first sports car featuring a compact engine. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
Adamastor's base of operations is north of Porto, where they have a history of manufacturing carbon fiber components for various industries, including automotive, wind energy, and beyond. Their pivot to the supercar market is a significant shift, marking a bold step in their corporate evolution. Back in 2018, Adamastor announced their intention to develop a sports car named the P003RL, but the burgeoning supercar market has now become their primary focus.
The
Adamastor Furia is propelled by a Ford-sourced 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6
engine, delivering approximately 650bhp and 421 lb-ft of torque. (Picture from: TopGear)
If you're in the market for a supercar and intrigued by unique offerings, another option to consider is the Praga Bohema. This Czech supercar features a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine from the Nissan GT-R, delivering around 700bhp and paired with a lightweight design for outstanding performance.
The Adamastor Furia exemplifies the remarkable outcomes achievable through vision and determination, blending performance, design, and exclusivity seamlessly. (Picture from: TopGear)
The journey of Adamastor is an inspiring tale of ambition and innovation. As they strive to carve out a niche in the competitive supercar market, their story resonates with the spirit of pioneering new frontiers. The Adamastor Furia, with its unique blend of performance, design, and exclusivity, stands as a testament to what can be achieved with vision and determination.
Adamastor intends to manufacture just 60 units of the Furia, contingent upon securing sufficient buyers. (Picture from: TopGear)
In the world of supercars, where performance and prestige are paramount, the Adamastor Furia offers a refreshing alternative to the established giants. For those looking for a unique, high-performance vehicle that breaks the mold of traditional supercar expectations, the Furia is a contender worth considering.
And for those who appreciate a different kind of innovation, the Praga Bohema provides another fascinating option. Whether these cars will become mainstays in the supercar hall of fame remains to be seen, but they undoubtedly add exciting new dimensions to the ever-evolving landscape of automotive excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ADAMSTOR SUPERCARS | TOPGEAR | REVISTACARS ]
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Forgotten ONES - Mad Max stands as one of the most iconic films of the 20th century, captivating audiences with its post-apocalyptic narrative and thrilling car chases. Recently, the franchise welcomed a new installment, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, which reignited fans' enthusiasm. Among the memorable elements of these films is the legendary car, the matt black V8 Interceptor, a symbol of power and resilience in the harsh, dystopian world of Mad Max.
The 1977 Ford XC Falcon Panel Van fitted with the original concept Arcadipane Concorde Kit part of which would later to be fitted to Mad Max's V8 Interceptor. (Picture from: Carporn in Reddit)
The V8 Interceptor made its first appearance at the climax of Mad Max and continued to play a significant role in the first half of Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior. Its legacy extended into Mad Max: Fury Road, where it was transformed into the off-road, bare metal version known as the Razor Cola. This transformation added another layer to the car's storied history, enhancing its rugged appeal.
The Ford Falcon XB GT Coupe "V8 Interceptor," also known as the Pursuit Special, was built on a 1973 Ford Falcon XB GT Coupe featuring a distinctive Concorde-style nose designed by Peter Arcadipane. (Picture from: StreetMachine)
The V8 Interceptor remains a beloved icon among Mad Max fans, symbolizing the gritty, rebellious spirit of the films. Its evolution from a Ford Falcon XB GT Coupe to the rugged Razor Cola embodies the ingenuity and creativity of the designers behind the scenes. As Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga continues to captivate audiences, the legacy of the V8 Interceptor and the visionary minds that brought it to life will undoubtedly endure.
This is the Razor Cola, a bare metal version of the off-road monster and an evolution of the Ford Falcon XB GT Coupe "V8 Interceptor," featured in Mad Max: Fury Road. (Picture from: Razor Cola in Facebook)
Based on the 1973 Ford Falcon XB GT Coupe, the V8 Interceptor was a masterpiece of modification. The Main Force Patrol, the fictional police force in the film, outfitted the car with a unique front fascia designed by Peter Arcadipane. This front fascia was originally featured on the Ford XC Falcon Concorde Show Van, a unique car creation of Peter Arcadipane and Kevin Patterson, who designed the front end and handled fabrication. Initially showcased at the 1977 Melbourne International Motor Show, the car garnered significant media attention.
The Ford XC Falcon Concorde Show Van, with its unique front end designed by Peter Arcadipane and fabricated by Kevin Patterson, debuted at the 1977 Melbourne International Motor Show. (Picture from: StreetMachine)
The one-off Falcon panel van, based on a 1977 Ford XC Falcon, was painted at Sam Midgley's Automotive Painting and Restoration workshop in Coburg, Victoria. Despite its initial purpose as a showpiece, the van’s practical design resonated with audiences. Aparantly, Arcadipane's innovative design did not end with the show car. He sold the fibreglass body kit, enabling other XC panel vans to be “Concorde-ized,” thus spreading his vision beyond the original model.
The one-off Falcon panel van, built on a 1977 Ford XC Falcon, was painted at Sam Midgley's Automotive Painting and Restoration workshop in Coburg, Victoria. (Picture from: Silodrome in Facebook)
In Australia, panel vans were common but not typically luxurious or upmarket. They were utilitarian, primarily used by tradesmen like plumbers or couriers. These vehicles featured a single row of seats and ample cargo space, designed for transporting tools and materials rather than passengers. Unlike the shooting brakes, panel vans lacked through access from the cabin to the rear, solidifying their role as workhorses rather than recreational vehicles.
The
Peter Arcadipane's Ford Falcon XC Concorde Panel Van, designed as
a show car for Ford, featured a fibreglass bodykit that was later made
available for sale, allowing any XC panel van to be transformed into a
"Concorde-ized" masterpiece. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
Although the original Concorde show van met an unfortunate end, reportedly crushed after the 1978 Perth Motor Show, its legacy lived on through the surviving body kit moulds. These moulds preserved the innovative design and allowed for the creation of similar vehicles, ensuring that Arcadipane's work continued to inspire car enthusiasts and designers.
This is Peter Arcadipane's Ford Falcon XC Concorde Panel Van concept, which unfortunately never made it into production.(Picture from: Gashetka)
Peter Arcadipane's influence on the automotive world extended beyond Australia. Born in Italy and raised in New South Wales, Australia, Arcadipane worked as a design consultant across several countries, including the US, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan. His contributions to car design, particularly in the Mad Max series, left an indelible mark on the industry. | -POSMvTeOds |
In the ever-evolving landscape of film and automotive design, the story of the one-off Falcon panel van and its next incarnation, the V8 Interceptor, showcases the power of innovation and passion. It reminds us that even in the most desolate futures, creativity and determination can produce something truly extraordinary. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THENATIONALNEWS | CARPORN | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC | STREETMACHINE | MADMAX.FANDOM | SILODROME ]
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Legendary BEAST - The Maserati MC12, especially the 2004-2005 model, remains a timeless legend in the realm of supercars. Originally designed as a road-legal race car, it boasted a breathtaking blend of power and aesthetics that set it apart from its contemporaries. With a roaring V12 engine churning out over 600 horsepower, this Italian masterpiece could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under 4 seconds, showcasing its prowess on both the track and the street. Limited to just 50 units worldwide, each commanding a hefty price tag of £400,000, the MC12 became an exclusive symbol of automotive excellence and luxury.
Maserati MC12 GT1 Centenario created to celebrate the Maserati 100th anniversary in 2014. (Picture from: DeviantArt)
Building upon this success, Maserati introduced the MC12 GT1, a formidable racing variant tailored for the fiercely competitive FIA GT Championship series. Constructed around a lightweight carbon fiber monocoque chassis and propelled by a potent V12 engine initially delivering 750 horsepower, the GT1 was a force to be reckoned with on the track. Despite later power restrictions to 560 horses, the GT1's aerodynamic finesse, coupled with its low center of gravity and optimal weight distribution, ensured unparalleled performance and agility through corners.
Right side view of Maserati MC12 GT1 Centenario. (Picture from: Youtube)
The MC12 GT1's racing legacy quickly solidified with a string of victories beginning in 2004 and culminating in a dominant reign over the Drivers' and Teams' titles for five consecutive years starting from 2005. Its track prowess and technical sophistication made it a darling among racing enthusiasts and a symbol of Maserati's engineering prowess.
In a nod to its storied heritage, Maserati unveiled the MC12 GT1 'Centenario' in 2014, commemorating a century of automotive excellence. This special edition retained the ferocious performance of its predecessors while showcasing a distinctive paint scheme that turned heads wherever it went. Powered by a thunderous 6.0-liter V12 engine, the MC12 GT1 'Centenario'could accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in a blistering 3.6 seconds, reaffirming its status as a true thoroughbred on the racetrack.
While sightings of the MC12 GT1 'Centenario' outside track events are rare, its unmistakable presence and symphony of engine notes continue to captivate automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Its legacy as a track-focused marvel and a testament to Maserati's enduring commitment to performance and innovation remains etched in the annals of automotive history, ensuring its place among the most iconic racing cars of all time.*** [EKA [13102015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARBUZZ | DEVIANTART ]
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Forgotten ONES - Transporter vehicles often go unnoticed in the world of motorsport, yet they play a crucial role. These carriers ensure race cars arrive at their destinations safely and in style. In previous discussions, we delved into the 1955 Mercedes-Benz Race Team Transporter and the 1961 Cheetah Race Car Transporter. Today, let's explore an intriguing model from Spain, a country with a rich history in vehicle manufacturing, despite its relatively low profile in the global automotive industry.
The Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao', a rare 1952 Spanish racing car transport vehicle, has been immortalized in diecast form. (Picture from: QuirkyRides's status on X)
Spain has produced a wide variety of vehicles, from passenger cars to trucks and motorcycles. Among these, the now-defunct Pegaso brand stands out, especially for its unique sportscars based on the Pegaso Z-102, such as the Cúpula from 1952 and the "Bisiluro" 1A Serie from 1953. Interestingly, Pegaso also ventured into the realm of transporter vehicles. One notable model is the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao', a sports vehicle transport truck of 1952 named at the La Sagrera factory in Barcelona.
The name 'Bacalao' is unofficial and refers to the design, which resembles the lateral gills of a codfish, known as bacalao in Spanish. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
The Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' was a familiar sight on Spanish roads from 1952 until 1970. Officially, only one unit was produced, although rumors suggest there might have been two, even more. This transporter was based on the Z-401 bus, with bodywork crafted by Carde y Escoriaza. Initially painted white and powered by a 145 hp gasoline engine, it was soon fitted with a six-cylinder diesel engine, likely producing 125 hp. The exterior colors were also updated over time.
The Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' was based on the Z-401 bus, featuring bodywork crafted by Carde y Escoriaza. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
One of the most striking features of the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' was its unique body, measuring 11.0 meters long and 3.5 meters high, capable of carrying a couple of cars and some equipment. However, it typically transported just one vehicle along with a significant number of spare parts. The driver’s seat was centrally located above the engine, surrounded by seven windows, and the controls were somewhat unconventional. The handbrake and gearbox lever were on the left, while the gearbox itself was mounted on the steering stem, requiring drivers to adapt.
The Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' was a familiar sight on Spanish roads from 1952 until 1970, with only one officially produced unit, though rumors suggest there might have been more. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
The cargo compartment of the 'Bacalao' featured a wooden floor, a small sink with a water tank, and a tool drawer. Notably, it had the lights from 1060 truck, including a green light that indicated safe overtaking opportunities. After being showcased in Madrid and Barcelona, the 'Bacalao' was used to transport and provide technical assistance for Pegaso Z-102 sports cars during training for the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans.
One of the most striking features of the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' was its unique 11.0-meter long, 3.5-meter high body, capable of carrying two cars and equipment. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
Interestingly, the 'Bacalao'did not receive a permanent registration until 1957. Before that, it served various purposes, including as an advertising van during the 1955 Vuelta Ciclista a España and as an assistance vehicle in the port of Bilbao for ENASA-exported trucks. In the 1960s, it was highly sought after for sporting events both within Spain and internationally.
The cargo compartment of the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' included a wooden floor, a small sink with a water tank, and a tool drawer. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
The 'Bacalao' underwent another makeover, being repainted entirely in blue with new mirrors and additional front lights. The 'Friends of Veteran Cars' association took custody of it, and in 1968, it supported the CS team and their Lola T-100. However, over time, it fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned near the La Sagrera factory, ultimately being scrapped.
After being showcased in Madrid and Barcelona, the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' transported and provided technical assistance for Pegaso Z-102 sports cars during training for the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
This unique vehicle, nicknamed 'Bacalao' or 'Codfish in English'for its lateral gill-like design, was initially immortalized by Modeltrans for a select few collectors and later 'democratized' by Salvat through its Pegaso model collection. The model stands out for its excellent finishes, fully metallic body (except for the rear doors), and detailed paint job, complete with ramps, historical license plates, and an accurate interior.
In conclusion, the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' is a testament to the creativity and engineering prowess of the Spanish automotive industry. Its story, from its days of glory to its eventual decline, reflects a unique chapter in the history of vehicle transporters, leaving behind a legacy that continues to fascinate enthusiasts and collectors alike. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ES.MOTOR1 | QUIRKYRIDES | ES.WIKIPEDIA | AUTOPIONEER.DE | PINTEREST ]
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Rare GEMS - Hey, guys! Ferrari has long been renowned for its two-seater sports cars, emphasizing performance and the thrill of driving. Traditionally, this Italian icon rarely ventured into creating vehicles with a four-passenger layout. However, one notable exception stands out, showcasing Ferrari's foray into blending sportiness with practicality.
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4, a four-seat coupe realistically designed as a two-seater by Filippo Sapino of Pininfarina, was produced between 1971 and 1973. (Picture from: Carvaganza)
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4, a four-seat coupe that was realistically a two-seat coupe, was produced by Ferraribetween 1971 and 1973. Designed by Filippo Sapino of Pininfarina, its sleek wedge shape and pop-up headlights marked a significant shift from the more conventional lines of its predecessors when it debuted at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show. Some in Italy affectionately dubbed it the “Gobbone” – Italian for “Hunchback” – though this nickname never really gained widespread usage.
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4 was built on a tubular steel chassis featuring large oval-section main tubes and cross bracing. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Built on a tubular steel chassis with large oval section main tubes and cross bracing, the 365 GTC/4's body was crafted from steel, featuring an aluminum hood and trunk lid by Pininfarina before being sent to Ferrari for final assembly. The suspension system was independent at both the front and rear, with unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, and anti-roll bars, offering a softer ride compared to the GTB/4. Standard amenities included power steering, power windows, and air conditioning, enhancing the driving experience with added comfort.
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4 featured standard amenities such as power steering, power windows, and air conditioning, enhancing the driving experience with added comfort. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Although its dimensions suggested a two-seater coupe, the 365 GTC/4’s interior was cleverly designed to accommodate two fold-down rear seats, ideal for luggage or small children. This smart packaging effectively replaced two previous models, the 365 GTC and 365 GT 2+2. The exterior design was elegant and understated, integrating its front and rear rubber bumpers seamlessly into the overall aesthetic, a marked difference from the chrome bumpers of the Daytona and the Dino, Ferrari’s other production models of the era.
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4 was powered by a high-revving 4.4-liter Colombo V12 engine with quad overhead camshafts, coupled with a transmission system traditionally mounted at the rear of the engine.(Picture from: Silodrome)
Interestingly, the 365 GTC/4 also took over from the 365 GT 2+2, which had been in production for just one year. The concept of the 365 GTC/4 was that of a four-seat sports sedan with a more compact body resembling the two-seat 365 Daytona. Despite sharing its chassis with the Daytona, the 365 GTC/4 featured enhancements like power steering and an advanced rear suspension system that adjusted automatically.
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4's exterior design was elegant and understated, seamlessly integrating its front and rear rubber bumpers into the overall aesthetic. (Picture from: GTPlanet)
In terms of design and performance, the 365 GTC/4 was more refined compared to the aggressive 365 GTB/4, its two-seater counterpart. The high-revving 4.4-liter Colombo V12 engine—the “4” in GTC/4 indicating quad overhead camshafts—was slightly detuned, resulting in a torquier and more manageable performance at lower speeds. Unlike the Daytona, which had a rear transaxle, the 365 GTC/4’s transmission was traditionally mounted at the rear of the engine, prioritizing torque over a bit of horsepower.
In Italy, some affectionately dubbed it the “Gobbone” – Italian for “Hunchback” – though this nickname never gained widespread usage. (Picture from: Silodrome)
During its short production run of less than two years, Ferrari manufactured only 500 units of the 365 GTC/4. It was then succeeded by the more angular and controversial Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2, marking the end of an era for this unique blend of sportiness and practicality. | G4pi3Ye9i2Y |
The Ferrari 365 GTC/4 remains a fascinating chapter in Ferrari's history, representing a rare instance where the marque balanced performance with a more versatile, family-friendly design. It stands as a testament to Ferrari’s ability to innovate and adapt, even within the niche world of high-performance sports cars. This model continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts for its distinctive design and engineering, embodying the spirit of Ferrari in a form that dared to be different. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | SILODROME | BRINGATRAILER | 365GTC4 | EXOTICTRADER | GTPLANET ]
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The story of the Frua Faena is a testament to the innovative spirit and craftsmanship of Pietro Frua. It stands as a unique piece of automotive history, embodying the creativity and ambition of its creator. While it never saw mass production, the Faena remains a fascinating chapter in Lamborghini's storied legacy, a reminder of what can be achieved when vision and skill converge. | 8cppoBl6FrM |
