Forgotten ONES - For a moment, let us return to Russia during the Cold War, when the country was better known as the Soviet Union, stretching from Asia to Europe. Despite the common Western narrative influenced by the Soviet propaganda system, which projected an image of high technical capabilities and continuous development, instilling fear across the Western world, the Soviet Union's automotive industry was massive by producing around 2 million cars a year, it ranked as the sixth-largest manufacturer in the world during early 1980s.
The Pangolina 444GT was a unique, wedge-shaped sports car inspired by the Lamborghini Countach, built by Alexander Kulygin during the restrictive Soviet era. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
Back then, in the USSR, few families could afford a car, but that didn't mean there was no interest in them. On the contrary, many artisanal car projects captured people's interest. Immersed in the Cold War, the Soviet Union isolated itself from the West and aligned only with other communist countries. Everything appeared very restricted, but creativity found its way even in such an environment. An engineer from the Russian city of Ujtá, named Alexander Kulygin demonstrated this with his imaginative endeavor, building the only Pangolina 444GT.
Alexander Kulygin behind the wheel of one of the most iconic Soviet sports cars, his creation, the Pangolina 444GT. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
During that era, Soviet vehicles were commonly viewed as outdated in terms of design and technology. Alexander Kulygin challenged this presumption, and aimed for something much more advanced. Inspired by the Lamborghini Countach, he set out to recreate similar inspiring sports cars with a Soviet twist. His talent and imagination ultimately resulted in one of the most iconic Soviet sports cars.
The Pangolina 444GT, featuring a unique dome entry mechanism that lifts upward, was built over three years based on a VAZ/Lada-2101.(Picture from: Auta5p.eu)
The base of his creation was a VAZ-2101 Zhiguli, a licensed copy of the Fiat 124. It might seem daunting to turn a Fiat 124 into something akin to a Lamborghini, but Kulygin embraced the challenge. After three years of dedication, the Pangolina 444GT was ready in 1982. Its fiberglass body and tubular chassis showcased a remarkable design effort, featuring relatively modern lines that exuded a sporty vibe.
Inside of the Pangolina 444GT featuring with a simple dashboard using conventional parts, but the two aviation-inspired seats were comfortable. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
One of the innovative features was the row of four retractable front lights in the hood's center. These lights improved aerodynamics when not in use. The side windows, composed of three sections of glass, and handmade aluminum tires added to the car's unique appearance. Finding suitable sports tires was a challenge, but Kulygin succeeded.
The Pangolina 444GT, powered by a modest 62 hp 1.2-litre four-cylinder Lada engine, was placed just behind the front axle, attached to the dashboard, which had to be lifted for access. (Picture from: Auta5p.eu)
The most striking feature of the Pangolina 444GT was its entry mechanism. Instead of traditional doors, a dome was designed to lift the roof, sides, and windshield. This heavy structure was operated by a hydraulic system. The large windshield provided excellent visibility, and Kulygin developed a unique wiper arm that efficiently cleared 95% of the glass surface.
The
Pangolina 444GT, with its fiberglass body nested on a tubular chassis,
showcased a remarkable design effort, featuring modern lines that exuded
a sporty vibe. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
Under the hood, instead of an engine, there were radiators and the battery due to the hood's wedge shape. The engine was placed just behind the front axle, attached to the dashboard, which had to be lifted for access. This unconventional placement required several innovative solutions for components like the steering and air filter. Two fuel tanks were positioned in front of the rear axle.
A detailed cutaway of the Pangolina 444GT was published in a technical leaflet during the Soviet era, showcasing the incredible achievement of a single individual in designing this car.(Picture from: Auta5p.eu)
With its front-central engine placement, the Pangolina 444GT was one of the few Soviet cars with such a configuration. The 1.2-litre, four-cylinder Lada engine produced a modest 62 hp. While not powerful by Western standards, it was impressive for Soviet roads, allowing the car to reach a top speed of 180 km/h.
During its heyday, the Pangolina 444GT was painted blue and gained fame as a Russian star during its tour in the USSR, even making an appearance in the 1985 film "Секрет 'Лауры' (Laura's Secret).(Picture from: DNA.fr)
The dashboard was simple, using conventional parts, but the two aviation-inspired seats were comfortable. Instead of rear-view mirrors, Kulygin used a periscope for rear visibility right up the the driver-side. The car gained attention in Moscow, featuring in exhibitions, newspapers, and even a film. It made an international appearance at the Expo-85 car exhibition in Bulgaria, where modifications were made for compliance, including additional lights and mirrors.
This is not the second iteration of the Pangolina 444GT, but a reconstruction result after an accident in the mid-1990s, featuring a targa roof, more conventional doors, and a reinforced bottom. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)
Despite the modifications, the Pangolina retained its charm. Kulygin never built a second unit, and he continued using it until an accident in the mid-1990s. The dome was damaged, leading to a reconstruction that included a targa roof, more conventional doors and reinforcement of the car's bottom. The car was repainted red, inspired by Ferrari, but some original charm was lost with modern updates like a new steering wheel, red and black upholstery, and a CD radio with a subwoofer.
The
Pangolina 444GT was repainted red, inspired by Ferrari, but some
original charm was lost with modern updates like a new steering wheel,
red and black upholstery, and a CD radio with a subwoofer. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sportscar)
Alexander Kulygin's innovative spirit was recognized, and he joined Russian automaker AZLK in the late 1980s. He emigrated to the United States in the mid-1990s, starting a business developing and selling car kits based on the Pontiac Fiero. Tragically, he died in a traffic accident in 2004. His legacy, the Pangolina 444GT, remains one of the most iconic and remarkable Soviet cars in history. This car stands as a symbol of boundless creativity and ambition that thrived even in the most restrictive environments, reminding us that ingenuity can flourish anywhere.
The reconstructed Pangolina 444GT, now on display at the Museum of Retro Cars in Rogozhsky Val, Moscow, is a testament to human creativity and determination. (Picture from: DepositPhotos)
The story of the Pangolina 444GT, (reportedly now sat on display at the Museum of Retro Cars in Rogozhsky Val, Moscow) is a testament to human creativity and determination. Despite the many restrictions of the time, Kulygin's innovative spirit shone through, creating a car that continues to captivate enthusiasts.
ONE-OFF - David Beckham, the iconic figure in English football, is not just famous for his prowess on the field but also for his exquisite taste in luxury cars. Recently, Beckham added another gem to his collection, the Maserati MC20 Fuoriserie DB Essentials, a testament to his love for high-performance automobiles.
The Maserati MC20 Fuoriserie DB Essentials is a bespoke supercar meticulously designed by David Beckham. (Picture from: Maserati)
This sleek machine represents the epitome of Maserati's craftsmanship, marking a glorious return to the realm of supercars after a significant hiatus. As the MC20, bearing the initials of Maserati Corse and the year 2020, stands as a beacon of innovation and style in the automotive industry.
The Maserati MC20 Fuoriserie DB Essentials is part of a line co-created with high-profile celebrities and 'Friends of the Trident'. (Picture from: DetikOto)
What distinguishes Beckham's MC20 is its Fuoriserie Essentials edition, a line of cars co-designed by high-profile celebrities and 'friends of the Trident'.Beckham meticulously personalized this edition to perfection during his visit to the Maserati factory in Modena, Italy, where he tailored every detail, resulting in a bespoke masterpiece that recently graced the streets of Miami, capturing attention and sparking envy among car enthusiasts.
Beckham's Maserati MC20 showcases a perfect blend of style, performance, and personalization, featuring a glossy black body with a frosted black Trident logo on the grille and C pillar.(Picture from: Liputan6)
Among Beckham's impressive fleet of vehicles, the Maserati MC20 holds a special place, not just for its jaw-dropping price tag of US$ 275,000 but also for the sheer artistry and engineering excellence it embodies. While the specifics of Maserati's decision to collaborate with Beckham remain undisclosed, one can speculate that the desire to keep pace with his wife Victoria's ventures in automotive design played a role in this partnership. Victoria's acclaimed design of the Range Rover Evoque may have spurred Beckham's own foray into the realm of car customization.
Beckham's personal touch is evident with the 'For David' inscription in the cabin, highlighting the car's bespoke nature. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The MC20's accolades speak volumes about its design prowess. Recognized as the 2021 European Product Design Award winner, this masterpiece draws inspiration from Maserati's illustrious MC12 model from 2005. Unlike its aggressive counterparts, the MC20 boasts a refined aesthetic characterized by elegant lines and a distinctive Maserati grille, front bumper, and headlights.
Step inside the MC20 to find a sophisticated interior that blends minimalism and sportiness, featuring a sleek center console, carbon fiber steering wheel, and prominent transmission lever. (Picture from: Marketeers)
Step inside the MC20, and you're greeted by a harmonious blend of minimalism and sporty allure. The interior exudes sophistication with a sparse yet functional center console, a carbon fiber-clad steering wheel, and a prominently positioned transmission lever. A 10-inch instrument panel adds a futuristic touch, completing the immersive driving experience. Notably, Beckham's personal touch is evident with the inscription 'For David' adorning the cabin, a subtle nod to the car's bespoke nature.
Beckham's Maserati MC20's powered by a potent Nettuno engine boasting a 3,000 cc V6 Twin Turbo configuration by generating a staggering 630 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque. (Picture from: DetikOto)
Beyond its visual splendor, the Maserati MC20 delivers exhilarating performance on the road. Housing a potent Nettuno engine boasting a 3,000 cc V6 Twin Turbo configuration, this supercar rivals the likes of Lamborghini, Ferrari, and McLaren. Generating a staggering 630 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque, the MC20 propels from 0 to 100 km/hour in a mere 2.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 325 km/hour.
In essence, Beckham's affinity for the Maserati MC20 transcends mere ownership; it epitomizes a harmonious blend of style, performance, and personalization. As he continues to leave an indelible mark in the realms of sports and luxury, Beckham's MC20 stands as a testament to his unwavering pursuit of excellence and distinction on and off the pitch. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MASERATI | AUTOEVOLUTION | SUPERCARBLONDIE | MARKETEERS ]
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WAIT & SEE - The global automotive industry, especially in the sports car segment, has experienced tremendous growth and innovation. Recently, there has been a surge of interest in new sports car models from lesser-known manufacturers. One such promising entrant called the Hyperflux is built by Zuperspeed Automotive, a startup based in Bangalore, India. Scheduled for launch in December this year, the Hyperflux aims to revolutionize the electric sports car market with a price range between £35,000 and £40,000.
India's first electric supercar, the Hyperflux, scheduled for launch in December 2024, is built by Zuperspeed Automotive, a startup based in Bangalore. (Picture from: TopGear)
India has not been a significant player in the sports car market, but the Hyperflux could change that narrative. This all-electric, closed-cockpit coupe features a striking design intended to capture attention with both its aesthetics and performance. Although specific details about the powertrain have not been released, the Hyperflux is expected to deliver around 300bhp, with a top speed of 155mph. Zuperspeed is also aiming for a dry weight of 1,100kg, with weight distribution optimized for better handling. The vehicle is projected to offer a range of 180 to 200 miles on a single charge.
The Hyperflux combines vintage appeal with modern electric vehicle technology, setting itself apart from other electric cars by avoiding an overly futuristic look. (Picture from: Zuperspeed Autootive)
For those desiring more power, Zuperspeed is considering a dual-motor version that could produce up to 800bhp. This high-performance variant would cater to enthusiasts seeking a thrilling driving experience.
The Zuperspeed Hyperflux aims to revolutionize the electric sports car market with a price range of £35,000 to £40,000. (Picture from: Zuperspeed Autootive)
According to Ijaz Anvar, CEO of Zuperspeed Automotive, the design and inspiration behind the Hyperflux. Anvar explained that the design team focused on appealing to customers born in the '90s and 2000s, who often admire the classic car designs of that era. The Hyperflux aims to blend this vintage appeal with modern electric vehicle technology, distinguishing itself from other electric cars by avoiding an overly futuristic look.
Despite its retro exterior, the interior of the Hyperflux is expected to be modern and luxurious. Anvar highlighted the use of premium materials and advanced AI technology to enhance the driving experience. One key feature will be a unique driver-assist system that learns and adapts to a driver's behavior, providing real-time feedback and suggestions to improve driving skills, functioning almost like a co-driver.
Ijaz Anvar Founder & CEO Zuperspeed Automotive. (Picture from: ThePrint.in)
The Hyperflux will initially launch in India, with plans to expand across Asia and eventually to the United Kingdom by the first half of 2027. This rollout strategy reflects Zuperspeed's ambition to establish a strong presence in both domestic and international markets. As the automotive world eagerly awaits this new model, the Hyperflux has the potential to become a significant player in the electric sports car market.
As anticipation builds, all eyes are on Zuperspeed to see if the Hyperflux can meet its ambitious specifications and innovative promises. With the electric vehicle market rapidly evolving, new entrants like Zuperspeed are set to make impactful contributions, pushing the boundaries of what electric sports cars can achieve. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZUPERSPEED AUTOMOTIVE | TOPGEAR | THEPRINT.IN | MSN ]
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📢New Breakthrough - The revival of the Bertone automotive design house has created quite a stir with the launch of the Bertone GB110 high-performance luxury car. Unveiled digitally in December 2022, this remarkable vehicle has captivated enthusiasts and industry experts alike. The design, led by Andrea Mocellin, showcases Bertone's innovative spirit and commitment to environmental sustainability by using synthetic fuel derived from plastic waste.
The unveiling of the Bertone GB110 at the Top Marques Monaco 2024, is coincided with the celebration of Bertone's 110th anniversary, and also a tribute to Giovanni Bertone, the founder of Carrozzeria Bertone.. (Picture from: CarDesignNews)
Forbidden Breed - Creativity should be like an endless ocean, but in reality, it faces relative limitations. When confronted with the constraints of intellectual property rights, creative individuals often face tough choices. These choices can halt the creative process and sometimes result in sanctions from rights holders to prevent others from following suit.
Reuben Bemrose made an unusual modification to a badly damaged 1995 Ferrari 456 GT, similar to the one in the picture, by swapping its V12 engine with a Mazda RX-7's 13B rotary engine.(Picture from: 1News.co.nz)
A gentleman in New Zealand embarked on a unique automotive project, modifying a Ferrari 456 GT in an unusual way. Instead of retaining the original engine, he opted for a Mazda Rotary engine. This intriguing transformation was a challenging and enjoyable creative process for him, though Ferrari, as the brand owner, did not receive it well.
Reuben Bemrose completed his Ferrari 456 GT's unusual modification, dubbed 'Rotorrari,' in two weeks at a cost of around NZD $13,000 (approximately Rp. 116 million). (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The story began with a 1995 Ferrari 456 GT, a four-passenger Grand Tourer powered by a 5.5-liter V12 engine and a six-speed manual transmission. In its prime, it was one of the fastest four-seater cars globally, capable of producing up to 442 PS, a significant achievement in the mid-90s.
Bemrose's Ferrari 456 GT front end was reconstructed with the addition of a new tubular steel frame and the placement of a 13B rotary engine. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Years later, Reuben Bemrose, the owner of R's Garage workshop, found a neglected, damaged Ferrari 456 GT, seemingly beyond economical repair. However, he saw an opportunity to give the car a second life with an unconventional twist: replacing the V12 with a Wankel 13B Rotary engine. He bought it and completed an unusual modification in two weeks at a cost of around NZD $13,000 (approximately Rp. 116 million). Bemrose explained to 1News, "I thought it would be fun." The transformed Ferrari, now called Rotorrari, made its debut at New Zealand's largest rotary festival back in the 2020.
Reuben Bemrose posed with his modified Ferrari 456 GT during an interview with local media 1News. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The sight of a Ferrari 456 GT with a Mazda engine attracted significant attention. The unusual modification, characterized by the rotary engine's distinct "brap-brap" sound, quickly became a media sensation and the uproar reached Ferrari, who contacted Bemrose with strong words but did not issue a formal cease-and-desist letter. Bemrose recounted how he found the damaged Ferrari, worth over $100,000 when functional. Acquiring it for almost nothing due to its condition, he was inspired to replace the malfunctioning V12 with the Wankel engine, driven by curiosity and fun rather than practicality.
Bemrose acknowledged Ferrari's protectiveness over their brand. "I understand they are quite protective about their image and brand," he said. "I just took the iconic V12 out of the car and put in the iconic New Zealand engine.” He added humorously, “I think they felt that I was damaging the brand image, but I wasn't."
A view of the Mazda RX-7's 13B rotary engine installed in the Ferrari's engine bay.(Picture from: Autoevolution)
Ferrari's strict stance on brand integrity is well-known. This isn't the first time the Italian automaker has intervened in owner modifications. Jean 'Beurlys' Blaton was never again allowed to own a Prancing Horse-badged sports car after he modified the legendary Ferrari F40 LM into the Ferrari F40 LM Barchetta. Similarly, DJ Deadmau5 faced backlash for altering the logo on his 458 Italia, humorously renamed "Purrari."
Despite Ferrari's displeasure, Bemrose offered a tongue-in-cheek apology while wearing Ferrari merchandise. He expressed respect for Ferrari's brand protection, humorously saying, “Dear Ferrari, I am very sorry, I did not mean to disparage your brand. Can't you see I just want to be friends?”
A side view of the Mazda RX-7's 13B rotary engine installed in the Ferrari's engine bay. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
While Ferrari may not find the situation amusing, Bemrose's playful approach and the resulting Rotorrari have left a lasting impression on car enthusiasts worldwide. This project underscores the creative spirit and boldness that drive automotive innovation, even if it occasionally ruffles the feathers of iconic brands. Bemrose's ingenuity and willingness to push boundaries exemplify the passion and excitement that fuel the world of car enthusiasts. His work on the Rotorrari serves as a reminder that creativity knows no bounds, even when it challenges established norms and brand identities.
The fascinating journey of this Ferrari 456 GT, from a neglected piece of automotive history to a vibrant, roaring drift car, captures the imagination of many. Bemrose's fun fearless approach to modifications demonstrates that sometimes, the most remarkable innovations come from thinking outside the box. The Rotorrari stands as a testament to the power of creativity and the joy of pushing the limits, inspiring future car enthusiasts to explore their own unique paths. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | 1NEWS.CO.NZ | WHICHCAR.AU | AUTOEVOLUTION | THEDRIVE ]
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📢New BEAST - In the competitive world of automotive manufacturing, capturing the interest of potential buyers often involves a clever nod to the past. Car makers sometimes evoke the glory days of legendary vehicles from famous racing events, infusing their modern creations with iconic design elements from these classics. This blend of nostalgia and contemporary engineering not only attracts enthusiasts but also bridges generations of car lovers.
The Kimera Evo38 has been created as a “what would have been” if the 037’s lineage had continued. (Picture from: VOI.id)
Kimera Automobili has adeptly utilized this strategy with the launch of their Kimera EVO37 sports car in 2021, paying homage to the revered Lancia Rally 037. The company has now introduced its latest masterpiece, the Kimera EVO38. This updated model brings more power, a standard all-wheel drive system, and subtle yet significant styling refinements to the table.
The Kimera EVO37 is built by Kimera Automobili as much as 37 unit to commemorate the glory of the legendary Italian rally car, the Lancia Rally 037. (Picture from: AutoExpress)
While the EVO37 featured a rear-wheel-drive setup, the EVO38 channels its impressive power to all four wheels. This is achieved through a sophisticated electro-hydraulic differential lock system. Reminiscent of systems used in previous World Rally Championship (WRC) cars, this allows drivers to calibrate the differential from the cabin, tailoring the driving experience to suit various conditions.
The Lancia Rally 037 is a mid-engine sports rally car specially built by Lancia in the early 1980s to compete in the FIA Group B World Rally Championship. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
According to CarBuzz, this system's ability to adjust traction distribution between the front and rear axles is a game-changer. On narrow, damp, winding roads, for instance, power can be distributed evenly to enhance stability and control. This adaptability ensures that the EVO38 is not just a powerful machine but also a versatile one.
The Kimera Evo38 boasts enhanced suspension with motorized shock absorbers and a new system to prevent damage to the lower bumper. (Picture from: VOI.id)
The Italian manufacturer has gone beyond just improving the drivetrain. The EVO38 boasts enhanced suspension with motorized shock absorbers and a new system to prevent damage to the lower bumper. The front shock absorbers are modern and conventional, while the rear retains the distinctive centrally positioned shock absorbers with double side springs. This setup is reminiscent of the spectacular Group B rally cars of the 1980s, reinforcing the car's heritage.
The Kimera Evo38 model brings more power, a standard all-wheel drive system, and subtle yet significant styling refinements to the table. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Under the hood, the EVO38 features significant improvements. The 2.1-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged and supercharged engine now delivers a robust 600 horsepower, a notable increase of 100 hp over the EVO37. The torque stands at 580 Nm, with 400 Nm available at just 2,000 rpm. These enhancements are courtesy of a larger turbocharger, new valves, camshaft, springs, and an electronically controlled blow-off valve. For those seeking a more exhilarating sound, Kimera offers a custom exhaust option, though it does not increase power.
Under
the hood, the EVO38 features significant improvements. The 2.1-liter,
four-cylinder turbocharged and supercharged engine now delivers a robust
600 horsepower, a notable increase of 100 hp over the EVO37. (Picture from: Carscoops)
The EVO38 comes with a six-speed manual transmission featuring shorter ratios than the EVO37, making it more suitable for mixed road use rather than just circuits. For those preferring an even more unique driving experience, an electrically driven sequential transmission is available as an option.
The EVO38's power-to-weight ratio remains competitive with high-performance cars like the Ferrari Roma and the Mazda MX-5 Miata.(Picture from: Carscoops)
To maintain the car's agility and performance, Kimera has kept the weight around 1 ton, similar to the RWD EVO37. This ensures that the EVO38's power-to-weight ratio remains competitive with high-performance cars like the Ferrari Roma and the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
To maintain the car's agility and performance, Kimera has kept the weight around 1 ton, similar to the RWD EVO37..(Picture from: Carscoops)
Kimera's latest creation will be produced in a limited run of just 38 units, adding to its exclusivity and allure. While the price per unit has not been disclosed, for reference, the base price of the EVO37 released in 2021 was €540,000, approximately Rp. 9.1 billion at the current exchange rate. | 8s0b65cwxDE |
The introduction of the Kimera EVO38 exemplifies how blending the best elements of the past with cutting-edge technology can create a vehicle that resonates with both nostalgia and modern performance demands. This limited-edition sports car not only honors its legendary predecessor but also sets a new benchmark in the world of high-performance automobiles. As Kimera Automobili continues to innovate, car enthusiasts can look forward to even more exciting developments from this visionary manufacturer. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KIMERA-AUTOMOBILI | CARBUZZ | CARSCOOPS | AUTOCAR.CO.UK ]
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It serves as a powerful reminder that even in the most challenging circumstances, visionaries can produce extraordinary achievements. This legacy encourages us to push boundaries and pursue our passions, no matter the obstacles in our path. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR.ES | VIARETRO | ALL-ANDORA | AUTA5P.EU | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCAR | AUTOPUZZLES | STORY-CARS | IMCDB.ORG | {PIATAAUTO.MD | DNA.FR ]
