Rare ONES - The Lamborghini Islero may not be as widely recognized as some of its siblings from the Italian manufacturer, but its allure and history make it a gem for car enthusiasts. Produced between 1968 and 1969, this grand tourer was designed to replace the 400 GT and boasted Lamborghini's powerful V12 engine, a hallmark of the brand's performance legacy.
The jaw-dropping Islero showcased here was Mr. Lamborghini's personal raging bull, highlighting Ferruccio's meticulous attention to detail in crafting this bespoke grand tourer. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
What sets the Islero apart is not just its mechanical prowess but also its role in popular culture. The car made an appearance in the 1970s thriller 'The Man Who Haunted Himself,' adding a touch of glamour and mystique to its already impressive resume.
Crafted by Carrozzeria Marazzi, the Islero's design focused on combining elegance with functionality. The spacious interior, excellent external visibility, and enhanced soundproofing ensured a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience for both the driver and passengers.
Ferrucio Lamborghini poses with his new V12 powered sports car and one of the Lamborghini tractors. (Picture from: HotCars)
Debuting alongside the Lamborghini Espada at the 1968 Geneva Auto Show, the Islero presented a more conservative alternative to its predecessor, embracing a traditional 2 + 2 coupé style that exuded timeless sophistication.
Lamborghini Islero is a grand tourer produced by Lamborghini between 1968 - 1969, bodied by Carrozzeria Marazzi, and made as to the replacement of the 400 GT. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Lamborghini's tradition of naming cars after bulls continued with the Islero, drawing its name from the bull that famously ended the life of Spanish bullfighter Manuel 'Manolete' Rodriguez Sánchez. This naming convention added a layer of heritage and significance to the model.
Lamborghini Islero which is basically the 400 GT bodied, with good external visibility, a more spacious interior, and added soundproof for the comfort of the driver and passengers. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Under the hood, the Islero roared with a Lamborghini V12 3,929 cc engine, delivering 325 bhp (242 kW) of power, thanks in part to the Weber 40 DCOE carburetor. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission system, the Islero could sprint from 0-60 mph (97 kph) in just 6.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 154 mph (248 kph).
Lamborghini Islero appears in the 2 + 2 coupé style and visually intended to be a more conservative alternative of the previous 400 GT traditional style. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The success of the Islero led to an updated model, the Islero S or Islero GTS, launched in 1969. This iteration featured stylistic enhancements such as engine cooling vents on the front fenders, an enlarged scoop hood, and revised fenders, elevating both performance and aesthetics.
Lamborghini Islero is equipped with a Lamborghini's V12 3,929 cc engine the same engine used by the 400 GT, Miura, Espada, and Jarama are capable of producing about 325 bhp (242 kW) of power. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The Islero S boasted an improved V12 engine, generating 350 bhp (261 kW) of power and achieving a top speed of 161 mph (259 kph) with an even quicker acceleration of 0-60 mph (97 kph) in 6.2 seconds. These enhancements solidified the Islero's status as a high-performance grand tourer.
Lamborghini Islero is able to run-up to a top speed of 154 mph (248 kph), with the acceleration from 0-60 mph (97 kph) in 6.4 seconds. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
With a total production of 225 units including both Islero and Islero S variants, this model remains a testament to Lamborghini's commitment to engineering excellence and timeless design. Its legacy is further underscored by the fact that founder Ferruccio Lamborghini himself chose the Islero as his personal vehicle, cementing its place in automotive history.
In a world of fast-evolving automotive technologies, the Lamborghini Islero stands as a reminder of a golden era where craftsmanship, style, and performance converged to create automotive masterpieces. *** [EKA [30092020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER | RETROPOWER.CO.UK | VINTAGE CLASSIC CARS | HOTCARS ]
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📢Legendary Heritage - Maserati has quietly reminded the automotive world of its formidable presence with the launch of two limited edition models, marking two decades since its triumphant return to racing. The Maserati MC20, a captivating blend of performance and aesthetics, often slips under the radar in conversations dominated by other supercar giants.
A pair of new MC20 supercar models, the Icona and Leggenda, are inspired by the legendary MC12 model that made a splash both on the track and as a respected V12-powered road car. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
However, in a landscape where automotive marvels are evolving rapidly, the MC20 stands tall as a testament to timeless elegance and exhilarating driving experiences, boasting an impressive 630hp from its twin-turbocharged Nettuno V6 engine.
The significance of Maserati's resurgence in motorsport cannot be overstated, particularly with the MC12 Stradale and the iconic MC12 GT1 from Vitaphone Racing Team making waves both as revered V12-powered road car and beast on the track. Drawing inspiration from this illustrious history, Maserati introduces the MC20 Icona and MC20 Leggenda, each limited to just 20 units, in honor of this milestone.
The Maserati MC20 Icona, dressed in the distinguished Bianco Audace Matte and Blu Stradale livery, draws inspiration from its legendary predecessor, the MC12 Stradale. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
The MC20 Icona pays homage to its predecessor, the MC12 Stradale, sporting the distinguished Bianco Audace Matte and Blu Stradale livery. While reminiscent of past designs, the Icona distinguishes itself with added touches such as the Italian flag adorning its doors, bespoke hubcap designs on chrome-plated Trident wheels, and bespoke four-way monocoque racing seats.
The Maserati MC20 Icona posed along with its legendary predecessor, the MC12 Stradale. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
Meanwhile, the MC20 Leggenda exudes a captivating allure with its Nero Essenza and Digital Mint Matte livery, inspired by the championship-winning Vitaphone Racing team. This variant elevates the sensory experience with detailed enhancements, including a striking yellow Trident logo and unique engine cover badges proclaiming its exclusivity.
The Maserati MC20 Leggenda exudes a captivating allure with its Nero Essenza and Digital Mint Matte livery, inspired by the championship-winning Vitaphone Racing team. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
Both limited editions encapsulate Maserati's commitment to blending cutting-edge technology with timeless design cues, offering enthusiasts a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. While pricing details remain undisclosed, the anticipation among avid Maserati aficionados is palpable, with reservations expected to flood in for these bespoke masterpieces.
The Maserati MC20 Leggenda is posed alongside its legendary predecessor, the MC12 GT1 from the championship-winning Vitaphone Racing team. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
The exclusivity of these models is not just about the limited number of units; it’s about the unique narrative each car tells. From the meticulous craftsmanship to the historical liveries, every detail is a nod to Maserati's rich racing legacy. Owners of the MC20 Icona and Leggenda will not just drive a car; they will be part of an exclusive club that celebrates two decades of racing excellence and the relentless pursuit of perfection.
Both the MC20 Icona and Leggenda are powered by the potent Nettuno V6 engine, and their engine covers boast badges with the inscriptions 'ICONA. UNA DI 20' or 'LEGGENDA. UNA DI 20.' (Picture from: PistonHeads)
Adding to the excitement, Maserati has integrated advanced technology and performance enhancements into these limited editions. Both the Icona and Leggenda are equipped with state-of-the-art features that elevate driving dynamics and comfort, making each drive an exhilarating experience. This seamless blend of heritage and innovation showcases Maserati’s ability to honor its past while embracing the future of automotive design. | untlHJbT7g8 |
Looking beyond the exquisite design and powerful performance, the launch of these limited edition MC20 models signifies Maserati's ongoing evolution and vision for the future. As the automotive industry transitions towards sustainability and innovation, Maserati remains at the forefront, blending heritage with modernity to create timeless masterpieces. The MC20 Icona and Leggenda serve as a glimpse into Maserati's exciting future, where luxury, performance, and sustainability converge to redefine the standards of automotive excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MASERATI | PISTONHEADS | GENTSPOST ]
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Forgotten ONES - Motor shows have always been the perfect stage for unveiling concept cars—those extravagant, futuristic vehicles that stir our imaginations. These cars often remain tantalizingly out of reach, like the flying cars we've long dreamed of. However, the automotive industry thrives on such visionary creations, as they embody the spirit of innovation and hint at the possibilities of what might be achievable.
The Innotech Mysterro, an extraordinary vehicle from the creative mind of Václav Král, a distinguished automotive designer from the Czech Republic, debuted at the Brno Motor Show in June 1995. (Picture from: GTSupreme)
One such dream manifested in the form of the Innotech Mysterro, an extraordinary vehicle that emerged from the creative mind of Václav Král, a distinguished automotive designer from the Czech Republic. Král, celebrated for his work with Skoda and his involvement in the experimental Formula 1 'KIN' project, is perhaps most renowned for the Tatra MTX V8. The Mysterro, a clear evolution of Král’s earlier work.
The Innotech Mysterro featured a tubular spaceframe chassis covered by an extravagant fiberglass body, with striking elements like a steeply raked windscreen, large side air vents, that gave it the quintessential look of a 1990s supercar. (Picture from: CollectingCars)
The Mysterro’s design was a testament to Král's ingenuity. It featured a tubular spaceframe chassis covered by an extravagant fiberglass body, with striking elements such as a steeply raked windscreen, large side air vents, and a deep rear body groove that gave it the quintessential look of a 1990s supercar. The car rode on custom-made three-piece center-lock OZ Racing alloy wheels, adding to its unique appeal.
The Innotech Mysterro was a fair-weather vehicle with no roof, leaving its opulent cabin exposed to the elements at all times. (Picture from: CollectingCars)
The interior of the Mysterro was as distinctive as its exterior. It sported salmon pink Connolly leather upholstery, Recaro seats, a Momo Corse steering wheel, and a carbon-fiber dashboard, all of which screamed luxury and exclusivity. However, it was a fair-weather vehicle with no roof, leaving its opulent cabin exposed to the elements at all times.
The Innotech Mysterro rode on custom-made three-piece center-lock OZ Racing alloy wheels, adding to its unique appeal. (Picture from: CollectingCars)
From a technical perspective, the Mysterro was a marvel. This two-door, two-seater roadster was mid-engined and rear-wheel drive, featuring a liquid-cooled V8 engine with a 5.7-liter displacement. It boasted an output of 300 horsepower at 4600 rpm and a torque of 470 Nm at 4200 rpm, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 270 km/h. The suspension system consisted of front double transverse hinges with coil springs and a rear multi-element setup, ensuring exceptional handling and performance. Ventilated disc brakes on both the front and rear provided robust stopping power.
The Innotech Mysterro boasted an output of 300 horsepower at 4600 rpm and a torque of 470 Nm at 4200 rpm, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 270 km/h. (Picture from: GTSupreme)
The Innotech Mysterro made its grand entrance at the Brno Motor Show in June 1995. It was a striking, roofless roadster, capturing the attention and imagination of all who saw it. Although initial plans included an engine upgrade to 400 horsepower and the potential installation of a 6.3-liter Chevrolet V8 or even a 9.6-liter 750-horsepower Falconer V12, these enhancements never materialized. Despite its bold design and impressive specifications, the Mysterro remained a one-off, a prototype that never reached full production.
The interior of the Mysterro was adorned with salmon pink Connolly leather upholstery, Recaro seats, a Momo Corse steering wheel, and a carbon-fiber dashboard, all of which screamed luxury and exclusivity. (Picture from: GTSupreme)
Over the years, the Mysterro has occasionally appeared in auction catalogs, often with a price tag reflecting its rarity and uniqueness. It was once estimated at $150,000, a figure that underscored the car's exclusivity. Although the plan was to create a series of 25 cars aimed at the American and Arab markets, only one was ever confirmed, with some sources suggesting up to five units might have been produced. Yet, the Mysterro’s legacy lies in its singularity and the vision it represented.
The Innotech Mysterro's rear adorned with a deep rear body groove that gave it the quintessential look of a 1990s supercar. (Picture from: CollectingCars)
More than two decades later, Chevrolet introduced the first mid-engined Corvette, the C8. This groundbreaking shift for the iconic sports car echoed the pioneering spirit of Václav Král's Mysterro. Though the Mysterro itself did not spark a production line, its design and concept foreshadowed a significant evolution in automotive engineering, proving that sometimes, the dreams seen in concept cars can indeed inspire future reality. | ogOqS8lD-eI |
The Innotech Mysterro stands as a testament to the power of visionary design and the endless possibilities that concept cars bring to the automotive world. It serves as a reminder that even if a dream car never sees mass production, its influence can still shape the future in unexpected ways. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GTSUPREME | AUTA5P.EU | THETRUTHABOUTCARS | SUPERCARS.NET | COLLECTINGCARS ]
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NEW ICON - After a long and eagerly anticipated wait, Bugatti Automobiles has finally unveiled the new Bugatti Tourbillon, the much-anticipated successor to the Bugatti Chiron. This groundbreaking release on June 21, 2024, marks a significant milestone for Bugatti, now under the stewardship of Mate Rimac. The Bugatti Tourbillon, stands as the first new Bugatti hypercar of this new era, priced at a staggering $4.1 million, or approximately Rp. 67.4 billion.
The Bugatti Tourbillon, under Mate Rimac's leadership, marks a significant milestone as Bugatti's first hybrid hypercar. (Picture from: GridOto)
The Bugatti Tourbillon is not just a new hypercar; it represents a historic first for Bugatti with its incorporation of hybrid technology. "The development of the Bugatti Tourbillon was guided by every step of Bugatti history and the words of Ettore Bugatti himself," remarked Mate Rimac, the Chief Executive Officer of Bugatti. Rimac emphasized the guiding philosophy of Bugatti's founder, Ettore Bugatti, whose mantra, "if you can compare it, it is no longer a Bugatti" and "nothing is too beautiful," was instrumental in crafting this hyper sports car for a new era.
The Bugatti Tourbillon features a distinctive design that is instantly recognizable as a Bugatti. (Picture from: Voi.id)
The Bugatti Tourbillon boasts a distinctive design that is immediately recognizable as a Bugatti. As highlighted on the manufacturer's official website, the design embraces the philosophy of "Form Follows Performance," blending 115 years of Bugatti's DNA into a new and exciting era. The design of the Tourbillon is an evolution of Bugatti's design language seen in the Veyron and Chiron, drawing inspiration from historic Bugatti cars such as the Type 57SC Atlantic and Type 35, yet pushing the envelope with more aggressive and aerodynamic aesthetics.
The Bugatti Tourbillon's design embraces the "Form Follows Performance" philosophy, blending 115 years of Bugatti's DNA into a new and exciting era. (Picture from: Voi.id)
Despite its new proportions, the essence of Bugatti remains unmistakable. The Tourbillon is crafted to be timeless while prioritizing performance. Each detail is meticulously refined to balance aerodynamic and thermodynamic performance, true to Bugatti's design heritage. The interior of the Tourbillon continues this tradition with a beautifully detailed cabin designed to stimulate the senses, and features a selection of luxurious materials including titanium, wood, cashmere, and sapphire, each chosen to exude unparalleled excellence.
The Tourbillon's interior features luxurious materials like titanium, wood, cashmere, and sapphire, chosen to exude excellence and stimulate the senses. (Picture from: GridOto)
The most transformative aspect of the Bugatti Tourbillon is its engine and hybrid drive system. Departing from the Ferdinand Piech era, the Tourbillon replaces the iconic 8,000 cc W16 quad-turbo engine with a normally aspirated V16 engine boasting a capacity of 8,300 cc. This V16 engine, developed in collaboration with Cosworth, generates an impressive 986 horsepower and 900 Nm of torque, allowing the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 2 seconds.
The Bugatti Tourbillon remains lightweight thanks to its advanced monocoque structure made from aviation-grade carbon composite material. (Picture from: Voi.id)
The V16 engine's immense power is complemented by three electric motors that drive the front and rear wheels. The front electric motors each deliver 670 hp and up to 3,000 Nm of torque. Additionally, there is a rear wheel drive motor positioned between the engine and transmission that provides 335 hp and 240 Nm of torque. Altogether, the Bugatti Tourbillon achieves a combined power output of 1,775 hp and can reach speeds of up to 445 km/h.
The Bugatti Tourbillon is not only powerful but also technologically advanced. Its instant power delivery and optimal torque flexibility make it the most dynamic Bugatti ever created. The car can operate in hybrid or fully electric mode, offering the convenience of entering electric vehicle zones in urban areas with ease.
The Bugatti Tourbillon, powered by an 8,300 cc naturally-aspirated V16 engine developed with Cosworth, generates 986 horsepower and 900 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 2 seconds. (Picture from: GridOto)
Despite housing a battery and electric motor, the Bugatti Tourbillon remains lightweight thanks to its advanced monocoque structure made from aviation-grade carbon composite material. This material is ingeniously designed to integrate the battery casing and front air intake as structural components, optimizing every element to ensure minimum weight and maximum performance.
Unsurprisingly, the Bugatti Tourbillon represents the pinnacle of performance in the Bugatti lineup. However, this extraordinary hypercar is currently undergoing further testing, with customer deliveries scheduled to begin in 2026. Only 250 units will be available for the initial release, making the Tourbillon an exclusive and highly coveted masterpiece. As we eagerly await the arrival of this groundbreaking vehicle, one thing is certain: the Bugatti Tourbillonis set to redefine the future of hypercars.*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BUGATTI | CARSCOOPS | AUTOCAR | AUTOEXPRESS | MOTORAUTHORITY ]
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Forgotten BEAST - The Fiat X1/9 Abarth Prototipo is a sportscar that ignites excitement among automotive enthusiasts. Initally with only five units of the racing car model ever produced, it remains a rare sight. Today, only four are known to exist, with one having vanished over time. The car's story began in 1974 when Bertone and Abarth teamed up to create a sports car designed to dominate rally tracks. They selected Mario Colucci, a seasoned engineer with extensive experience at Abarth, to lead this groundbreaking project intended to replace the 124 Abarth Rally.
This meticulous restoration showcases the 1974 Abarth X1/9 Stradale Prototipo Coupe, completed by a dedicated Abarth collector.(Picture from: r/spotted)
📢The NEW Challengers - In the realm of high-speed automotive engineering, SSC North America has consistently set new standards for performance and innovation. Their latest offerings, the SSC Tuatara Striker and Tuatara Aggressor, are exemplary models that extend the legacy of the Tuatara, previously celebrated as the world's fastest car. These new variants not only focus on speed but also significantly enhance handling and downforce, making them formidable contenders on both roadways and racetracks.
The Tuatara Striker and Aggressor represent a breakthrough by SSC North America in 2021, setting new standards for performance and innovation in high-speed automotive engineering. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
Jerod Shelby, the visionary Founder and CEO of SSC North America, perfectly encapsulates the Tuatara's multifaceted capabilities by stating, "The Tuatara was designed and built to show force wherever it goes." Whether it's maneuvering through urban streets, accelerating down an airstrip, or navigating the challenging turns of a racetrack, the Tuatara meets and surpasses the highest expectations with remarkable ease and precision.
These new variants not only focus on speed but also significantly enhance handling and downforce, making them formidable contenders on both roads and racetracks. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
The SSC Tuatara Striker and Aggressor are not just about raw power; they feature extensive aerodynamic enhancements. Both models come equipped with a large front splitter, integral dive planes, and finned side rockers. Additionally, the rear of these cars includes an active high-downforce wing, a vertical stabilizer, and a diffuser. These combined features generate a remarkable 1,100 lbs of three times the downforce of the standard Tuatara at 160 mph, ensuring unparalleled stability and control at high speeds.
The SSC Tuatara Striker and Aggressor are not just about raw power; they also feature extensive aerodynamic enhancements. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
Both
the Striker and Aggressor are powered by a twin-turbo V8 engine with a
5,900 cc capacity developed by Nelson Racing. This engine, paired with a
7-speed transmission, delivers seamless power and exceptional
performance.
The
Striker and Aggressor are both propelled by a twin-turbo V8 engine from
Nelson Racing, boasting a 5,900 cc capacity and paired with a 7-speed
transmission for seamless power and exceptional performance. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
The Striker's engine can produce 1,369 horsepower with 91 octane gasoline (around RON 95) or an astounding 1,774 horsepower with E85 fuel. For
those seeking ultimate performance, the Aggressor offers an optional
boost to a phenomenal 2,230 horsepower, catering to the most demanding
enthusiasts.
Both models come equipped with a large front splitter, integral dive planes, and finned side rockers. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
In addition, drivers can adjust the exhaust system (muffler) to their preferred noise level, whether loud or quiet, ensuring a thrilling auditory experience. It could be said that the Striker is optimized for downforce, while the Aggressordelivers a monstrous power of 2,230 hp.
The rear of these two SSC North America hypercars includes an active high-downforce wing, a vertical stabilizer, and a diffuser. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
Inside, the Tuatara Striker showcases a modified interior with an exposed carbon fiber dashboard and numerous Alcantara options, blending luxury with functionality. The Aggressor, designed explicitly for racing, includes a carbon dashboard, a roll structure, and a five-point racing harness with a special racing seat, underscoring its track-focused nature.
The
rear of these two SSC North America hypercars includes an active high-downforce wing, a vertical stabilizer, and a diffuser.(Picture from: MotorAuthority)
SSC North America offers almost limitless customization options with the Tuatara Aggressor, enabling owners to tailor performance, appearance, and experience to their preferences. Only ten units of the Aggressor will be produced, making it an exclusive collector's item. In contrast, the Tuatara Striker will have a production run limited to 100 units.
SSC North America will enable Tuatara Aggressor owners to customize performance, appearance, and experience, with only 10 units planned, while the Tuatara Striker will be limited to 100 units in production. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
Although the prices for these new models are yet to be announced, it is anticipated that they will exceed the standard SSC Tuatara's starting price of approximately 1.6 million US dollars. SSC North America's relentless pursuit of automotive excellence is evident in the Tuatara Striker and Aggressor. These models push the boundaries of speed, design, and performance, setting new benchmarks in the hypercar segment. | Ab3dgPbrgzg |
In a world of fast-evolving automotive technologies, the Lamborghini Islero stands as a reminder of a golden era where craftsmanship, style, and performance converged to create automotive masterpieces. *** [EKA [30092020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER | RETROPOWER.CO.UK | VINTAGE CLASSIC CARS | HOTCARS ]
