Mysterious ONES - The world of exotic cars is often celebrated for its blend of unique styling and cutting-edge engineering, but few examples capture this spirit as vividly as those crafted during the mid-20th century. Among these, the 1952 Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster stands out as a unique masterpiece of automotive history. This two-door roadster, a product of visionary entrepreneurship, is the only one of its kind ever built. Its creator pitched the innovative idea to major car companies but faced rejection. Undeterred, he hand-built the car, using ingenious solutions like refrigerator hinges for the doors due to the unavailability of certain parts in full-scale production.
The Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster, a two-door innovation by Thomas D. Verrill, while attended at the Elegance at Hershey in 2014. (Picture from: UndiscoveredClassics)
Thomas D. Verrill, a mechanical engineering graduate from the University of Maine, initially worked in the aircraft industry before turning to road-going vehicles. His brainchild, the Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster, was ambitiously designed to surpass the Bugatti Royale as the longest car in the world. Built on a 1952 Chrysler chassis, it featured a 331 cubic-inch Chrysler Hemi V-8 engine and a Fluid Drive transmission. Measuring nearly 24 feet in length and weighing 5,100 pounds, the car boasts a robust body made of 3/4-inch fiberglass, with custom-made bumpers and wheel covers.
The Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster, a two-door innovation by Thomas D. Verrill, was submitted to major car companies but faced rejection. (Picture from: UndiscoveredClassics)
The Wolfwagen's design is as unique as its construction. It has a wooden frame with fiberglass up to three-quarters of an inch thick in places. The large steering column includes a horn with a distinctive sound, and two levers on the dash serve as the gear shift, which appear to be sourced from a marine craft. The prototype includes many unusual parts, such as vintage refrigerator door handles, which are positioned inside the doors for a smooth exterior finish.
The 1952 Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster is now part of the Swigart Museum. (Picture from: InterestingPennsylvania)
The car features a full convertible top with side curtains and is finished in a striking Mellow Yellow with a red leather interior. Despite the ingenuity and effort poured into its creation, Verrill realized that the car's length made it impractical for standard garage storage, halting its production. Thus, the Wolfwagen remains a singular creation. Its name, 'wolf,' was a popular slang term for a 'skirt-chasing bad boy,' adding a touch of personality to its story.
The 1952 Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster was ambitiously designed to surpass the Bugatti Royale as the longest car in the world.(Picture from: ConceptCarz)
The Wolfwagen is now part of the Swigart Museum, acquired by Mrs. Swigart's late husband, Harry G. Trefz, in the 1980s from the now-defunct Asbury Park museum. Before that, it was held in a private collection.
The decision to restore the car in 2013 was driven by a desire to showcase the creativity and skill of the students at the Pennsylvania College of Technology. Their efforts were rewarded with the opportunity to display the restored vehicle at The Elegance at Hershey, where it received much admiration.
The Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster's body is constructed of 3/4-inch fiberglass with custom-made bumpers and wheel covers. (Picture from: Pinterest)
The 1952 Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster, with its unique history and remarkable craftsmanship, continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts. Its journey from a rejected concept to a celebrated classic underscores the importance of innovation and persistence in the world of automotive design. This roadster is more than just a car; it is a symbol of what can be achieved with vision, creativity, and determination. This car's story inspires those who dare to dream and create, proving that passion and innovation can leave a lasting legacy.
The 1952 Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster features a red leather interior, a large steering wheel with a distinctive horn sound, and two levers on the dash serving as the gear shift. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
The Wolfwagen's legacy is not just about its physical form but also about the spirit it embodies. It reminds us that sometimes, the most extraordinary creations come from individuals who refuse to accept limitations. The car stands as a beacon of ingenuity, showing that with the right amount of passion and creativity, even the most ambitious dreams can come to life. This roadster's journey from an idea to a tangible reality serves as a testament to the power of human imagination and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Two unique levers on the dash of the 1952 Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster serve as the gear shift, seemingly sourced from a marine craft. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
In a world where mass production often takes precedence, the Wolfwagen's story highlights the value of bespoke craftsmanship. It underscores the beauty of creating something truly unique, tailored with care and attention to detail. The Wolfwagen is a celebration of individuality in an era of conformity, a reminder that true artistry lies in daring to be different.
Just before arriving at the Elegance at Hershey in 2014, the Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster underwent a meticulous restoration by Pennsylvania College of Technology students. (Picture from: UndiscoveredClassics)
As the years pass, the Wolfwagen remains a symbol of what can be achieved when creativity meets determination. It stands as a testament to the enduring allure of classic cars and the stories they tell. The car's presence at prestigious events and its place in the Swigart Museum ensure that its legacy will continue to be celebrated for generations to come. The Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster is more than just a piece of automotive history; it is a shining example of the incredible things that can be achieved with passion, innovation, and a refusal to accept the ordinary.
The exterior of the Verrill Wolfwagen Roadster is nearly 24 feet in length and weighs 5,100 pounds, and finished in mellow yellow. (Picture from: Pinterest)
This extraordinary roadster continues to be a source of inspiration, not just for car enthusiasts but for anyone who values creativity and perseverance. Its story encourages us to pursue our dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem. The Wolfwagen is a reminder that with vision and dedication, we can create something truly remarkable. It stands as a tribute to the power of human ingenuity and the timeless appeal of beautifully crafted automobiles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | INTERESTINGPENNSYLVANIA | UNDISCOVEREDCLASSICS | CONCEPTCARZ ]
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💪ONE-OFF⚒️ - Imagine witnessing a car that blurs the lines between reality and dreams. This is exactly what the 7X Design Rayo, a revised Lamborghini Huracán, achieves. Powered by British specialist 7X Design, this hypercar takes inspiration from the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300, boasting nearly 2000 horsepower and an elongated body capable of reaching a top speed of 500 km/h. This extraordinary machine made its debut at the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court in September 2021.
The 7X Design Rayo takes inspiration from the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300, boasting nearly 2000 horsepower and an elongated body capable of reaching a top speed of 500 km/h. (Picture from: Carscoops)
The Rayo is an extreme version of the Lamborghini Huracán LP610-4, designed to rival the McLaren Speedtail and Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300. 7X Design aimed to transform the Huracán into a hypercar that could exceed 300 mph, or over 480 km/h. To achieve this, they collaborated with Envisage Group to create a body that minimized air resistance. The new carbon fiber body panels reduced the drag coefficient from 0.39 to 0.279, inspired by the fastest Bugatti Chiron. Despite these changes, the front of the car retains the iconic look of the original Huracán.
The 7X Design Rayo is an extreme version of the Lamborghini Huracán LP610-4, designed to rival the McLaren Speedtail and Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300. (Picture from: Autonews.fr)
The power behind the Rayo comes from a collaboration with American company Underground Racing. They specialize in enhancing V10 and V12 engines of Italian supercars. The Huracán's V10 5.2 engine was boosted to 1,900 horsepower with the addition of two massive turbos and extensive internal modifications. Although the exact performance figures have not been released, the car's goal is clear: to surpass 300 mph.
The 7X Design Rayo powered by the Huracán's V10 5.2 engine was boosted to 1,900 horsepower with the addition of two massive turbos and extensive internal modifications. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The 7X Design Rayo's rear window features horizontal cooling slots, showcasing what is possible when passion and expertise converge. (Picture from: Autoblog.nl)
The Rayo’s bodywork is not just about performance but also aesthetics. The rear end, significantly longer than a standard Huracán, resembles a fusion of a Lamborghini and a Koenigsegg Regera. The front bumper has been refined, and the rear window features horizontal cooling slots. The design includes nods to the Miura, with distinctive features under the headlights.
The 7X Design Rayo's rear end, significantly longer than a standard Huracán, resembles a fusion of a Lamborghini and a Koenigsegg Regera. (Picture from: Autoblog.nl)
In addition to the Miura and Koenigsegg influences, the Rayo's power output aligns with some of the most powerful hypercars. The twin turbochargers increase the V10's output from 610 hp to over 1,900 hp. Such power figures are almost surreal, yet in the world of drag racing, there are even more extreme Huracáns with over 3,000 horsepower.
Despite its capabilities, the Rayo will not compete for the title of the fastest production car since it is a one-off creation. This unique project by 7X Design follows their earlier work on theGTO Vision, which incorporated various Ferrari elements but faced legal challenges from Ferrari. Turning to Lamborghini for this project allowed them greater creative freedom.
As we admire the Rayo, we can only hope to see it achieve its lofty goals. The pursuit of speed and innovation continues to drive the automotive world, and 7X Design’s Rayo stands as a testament to what is possible when passion and expertise converge. The journey of this remarkable car is one we will be watching closely, eager to see it push the limits of what a hypercar can achieve. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | 7X DESIGN | AUTOEVOLUTION | CARSCOOPS | AUTONEWS.FR | AUTOBLOG.NL ]
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Unique ONES - In the world of automotive design, certain cars stand out not only for their performance but for their unique and captivating looks. One such car is the Aztec 7, a creation by Fiberfab that turns heads and sparks conversations wherever it goes. This stunning vehicle, introduced in the early 1970s, was Fiberfab's answer to the Bertone Carabo, a striking show car that it strongly resembles. The Aztec 7, while bearing its own identity, is rooted in a fascinating history that intertwines with some of the most legendary names in car design.
The Aztec 7, introduced by Fiberfab in the early 1970s, turns heads and sparks conversations with its striking resemblance to the Bertone Carabo. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Fiberfab's Aztec 7 draws inspiration from an Alfa Romeo concept car known as the Carabo. Designed by the renowned Marcello Gandini during his tenure at the Italian design house Bertone, the Carabo was a revolutionary piece of art on wheels. Its design language and futuristic aesthetics set the stage for what would become the Aztec 7. Unlike the Carabo, which was based on Alfa Romeo's Tipo 33 Stradale, the Aztec 7 used the more accessible VW Beetle as its foundation. This choice of donor vehicle made the Aztec 7 both practical and intriguing, blending everyday reliability with exotic styling.
The 1968 Alfa Romeo Carabo Concept designed by Marcello Gandini of the Stilo Bertone, and built on the Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 Stradale chassis. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
The Aztec 7's body was mounted directly onto the Beetle's floor pan, a process that involved modifying the steering box and shift linkage to ensure a perfect fit. This melding of Italian design inspiration with German engineering practicality created a unique driving experience.
The Fiberfab Aztec 7, based on the Volkswagen Beetle chassis, blends everyday reliability with exotic styling, making it both practical and intriguing. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
One of the most remarkable features of the Aztec 7 is its windshield, which was sourced from none other than the Lamborghini Miura. This detail alone speaks volumes about the car's ambitions and the level of thought put into its creation.
The Aztec 7 body components, which mounted to a shortened VW Beetle chassis. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Diverging from the scissor doors of the Carabo, the Aztec 7 featured gull-wing doors, reminiscent of the iconic DeLorean and Mercedes 300SL. This design choice added to its exotic appeal, making it a standout at any gathering. The car's wedge-shaped profile and pronounced front and rear overhangs were characteristic of the era's automotive trends, capturing the spirit of 1970s car design. When built by a skilled craftsman, the Aztec 7 could achieve a level of beauty that made it a true showpiece.
The Fiberfab Aztec 7 featured gull-wing doors, reminiscent of the iconic DeLorean and Mercedes 300S. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Throughout the 1970s and into the early 1980s, the Aztec 7 was sold in kit form, allowing enthusiasts to build their own dream car. Its popularity soared, with many examples gracing the pages of Petersen's Kit Car magazine and making appearances at prestigious events like the Kit Car Nationals at Knott's Berry Farm. The car even found a place in the realm of land speed records, with a steam-powered version created by Fiberfab and James Crank's JDEX Company in 1977.
The Aztec 7, including a steam-powered version created by Fiberfab and James Crank's JDEX Company in 1977, found a place in the realm of land speed records. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The period from 1975 to 1985 is often regarded as a "Golden Age" for kit cars in the United States, and the Aztec 7 is a shining example of this vibrant era. Its unique blend of design, innovation, and accessibility made it a beloved icon among car enthusiasts. Today, the Aztec 7 is remembered as a classic, a testament to the creativity and passion that defined the kit car movement of its time.
As we look back on the Aztec 7, we see more than just a car; we see a piece of automotive history that captured the imagination of a generation. Its story is one of inspiration, ingenuity, and the joy of building something truly unique. The Aztec 7 remains a symbol of an era when car enthusiasts could take their dreams into their own hands and create rolling masterpieces that continue to inspire and amaze. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AZTEC7 | FIBERCLASSICS.ORG | HEMMINGS | RARECOMPONENTCARS | CLASSICITALIANFORSALE | WIKIPEDIA ]
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📢New Supercar - Two years ago, Pagani amazed the automotive world with the launch of the Utopia coupe. Now, Pagani is ready to captivate once again with the introduction of the Pagani Utopia Roadster. This new hypercar is set to be unveiled during this year’s Monterey Car Week, showcasing Pagani's dedication to technological innovation and timeless design. The Utopia Roadster, available in both open and closed configurations, promises the same high performance and agility as its coupe counterpart.
The Pagani Utopia Roadster is set to be unveiled during this year’s Monterey Car Week, showcasing Pagani's dedication to technological innovation and timeless design. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Weighing just 1,280 kg (approximately 2,800 lbs), the Utopia Roadster is a marvel of lightweight engineering. It features a Pagani V12 engine, celebrating mechanical purity without hybrid support. The car also includes the innovative Pirelli Cyber Tyre system, which uses advanced sensors to provide real-time communication between the tires and the vehicle, enhancing safety and performance.
The Pagani Utopia Roadster's body rests on a monocoque chassis redesigned to optimize rigidity without adding weight, ensuring both open and closed versions deliver unparalleled performance.(Picture from: TopGear)
Customization is a hallmark of Pagani vehicles, and the Utopia Roadster is no exception. Each car can be tailored to the owner's preferences, ensuring every Utopia Roadster is unique. The model to be showcased at Monterey will be in striking Habanero Red and will feature the optional Sport Pack, highlighting its blend of sportiness and elegance.
The Pagani Utopia Roadster features elegant butterfly doors, a sophisticated suspension system, and luxurious interior details, all contributing to an exhilarating and intuitive driving experience.(Picture from: TopGear)
Horacio Pagani, the creative genius behind the brand, emphasized the meticulous attention to detail in the Utopia Roadster’s design and engineering. The monocoque chassis has been redesigned to optimize rigidity without adding weight, ensuring that both the open and closed versions of the car deliver unparalleled performance.
The Pagani Utopia Roadster captivates with its luxurious interior details, creating a driving experience that is both exhilarating and intuitive. (Picture from: TopGear)
The design team, working closely with Pagani, ensured that the Utopia Roadster retains the elegance and sophistication of the coupe. The car features elegant butterfly doors, a sophisticated suspension system, and luxurious interior details, all contributing to an exhilarating and intuitive driving experience. Only 130 examples of the Utopia Roadster will be produced, with prices starting at $3,355,000 USD.
The Pagani Utopia Roadster a Pagani V12 engine, celebrating mechanical purity without hybrid support. (Picture from: TopGear)
Pagani's new creation is more than just a car; it's a statement of art and engineering. Each Utopia Roadster embodies Pagani's philosophy of blending beauty with performance. The anticipation for its unveiling at Monterey Car Week is palpable, with enthusiasts eager to see how Pagani has once again pushed the boundaries of automotive excellence. The Utopia Roadster is poised to become a collector's dream, a testament to Pagani's relentless pursuit of perfection.
The Pagani Utopia Roadster features an innovative Pirelli Cyber Tyre system, enhancing safety through advanced sensor technology that allows real-time communication between the tires and the vehicle. (Picture from: TopGear)
As the Monterey Car Week approaches, excitement builds among car enthusiasts and collectors. The Utopia Roadster promises to be a highlight, drawing attention with its stunning design and exceptional performance. The combination of advanced technology and bespoke craftsmanship ensures that the Utopia Roadster will leave a lasting impression on all who see it.
Only 130 examples of the Pagani Utopia Roadster will be produced, with prices starting at $3,355,000 USD. (Picture from: TopGear)
Pagani's dedication to innovation and artistry is evident in every aspect of the Utopia Roadster. From its powerful V12 engine to its advanced Pirelli Cyber Tyre system, every detail is designed to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. The limited production run ensures exclusivity, making each Utopia Roadster a rare and valuable piece of automotive history. | _ElSvNH1fUQ |
The upcoming reveal at Monterey Car Week is not just about showcasing a new car; it's about celebrating the spirit of innovation and the pursuit of excellence that defines Pagani. The Utopia Roadster stands as a testament to what can be achieved when passion and precision come together. As the world eagerly awaits its debut, the Utopia Roadster promises to set new standards in the world of hypercars, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive landscape. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PAGANI | AUTOBLOG | EVO.CO.UK | TOPGEAR | HYPERBEAST | MOTOR1 | CARANDDRIVER ]
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📢New Electric BEAST - The 2024 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) wrapped up on July 28, 2024 in Tangerang, leaving behind a trail of excitement and innovation. As automotive enthusiasts flocked to witness the latest in vehicle technology, one standout was AION, a rising star in the electric vehicle (EV) world. The company made headlines with its striking Hyptec SSR supercar, showcasing a blend of cutting-edge technology and sleek design.
The Hyptec SSR's exterior looks elegant in its Titanium Crystal Yellow finish, and showcasing a blend of cutting-edge technology and sleek design at the GIIAS 2024. (Picture from: Liputan6)
AION, a relatively new player in Indonesia’s automotive scene, introduced the Hyptec SSR at GIIAS 2024. This supercar, under the Hyptec brand, has a design that resembles high-end sports cars like Lamborghini. It reflects GAC AION’s dedication to advanced technology and luxury. Originally known as the GAC Aion Hyper SSR, this model has been rebranded as Hyptec for its export journey. Despite the name change, the differences between the export and domestic versions of the supercar are minimal, ensuring consistency in quality and performance.
The Hyptec SSR supercar boasts AirWing Taillights and diamond-coated headlights add a touch of futuristic elegance, making it not only a high-performance vehicle but also a statement of luxury. (Picture from: JawaPos)
The Hyptec SSR boasts impressive dimensions with a length of 4,583 mm, a width of 1,988 mm, and a height of 1,238 mm. It sits on a 2,650 mm wheelbase and features a 900-volt SiC chip-based platform. This technology supports an electric drive system that achieves a remarkable efficiency of 94.5 percent. With an electric motor capable of generating over 900 kW of power and a peak torque of up to 12,000 Nm, the Hyptec SSR accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 1.9 seconds.
The
Hyptec SSR supercar features automatic wind-suction butterfly doors
that open and close with a touch, showcasing its blend of functionality
and style. (Picture from: YangCanggih)
A unique aspect of the Hyptec SSR is its lightweight carbon fiber body, which is significantly lighter than traditional steel but boasts a tensile strength 3.5 to 5 times greater. This lightweight construction enhances the car’s center of gravity, leading to superior handling and stability. The car’s aerodynamic design is further complemented by a light coefficient exceeding 1.72, placing it among the best in its class.
The Hyptec SSR's interior looks elegant and more intriguing with its Black, Orange and Black hues, featuring bi-level instrument panels and exposed tubular structures throughout. (Picture from: Liputan6)
In addition to its performance and design, the Hyptec SSR features automatic wind-suction butterfly doors that open and close with a touch, showcasing its blend of functionality and style. The vehicle is available in six striking exterior colors—Quantum Red, Hyper Orange, Titanium Crystal Yellow, Auroral Green, Phantom Blue, and Phantom Carbon Fiber Black—and three interior hues: Black, Orange, and Black. The car’s AirWing Taillights and diamond-coated headlights add a touch of futuristic elegance, making it not only a high-performance vehicle but also a statement of luxury.
AION's booth at GIIAS 2024 featured a range of their production cars, including the Hyptec HT, Hyptec SSR, AION Y Plus, and AION ES. (Picture from: SetirKanan)
Andy Ciu, CEO of AION Indonesia, highlighted the significance of their presence at GIIAS 2024. “The Hyptec SSR represents our commitment to bringing the latest innovations from GAC AION to the Indonesian market,” he shared. Ciu is confident that this EV will make waves in the automotive sector, catering to the growing demand for high-tech electric vehicles in the region. | uyspnKO3kcM |
The Hyptec SSRmade its debut in Thailand in December 2023 and is priced between 1.28 million yuan (about Rp. 2.89 billion) and 1.68 million yuan (approximately Rp. 3.8 billion) in China. As automotive enthusiasts eagerly await its potential introduction to the world beyond China, including Indonesia, the Hyptec SSR is set to make a significant impact. Whether it will be a game-changer in the local market remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: AION’s latest supercar has certainly set a high bar for innovation and luxury in the EV segment. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUE SOURCES | CARNEWSCHINA | LIPUTAN6 | JAWAPOS | YANGCANGGIH | SETIRKANAN ]
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💣Forgotten BEAST💣 - The end of the V12 engine era is imminent, a reality that car enthusiasts are slowly coming to terms with. Despite the incredible engineering behind 12-cylinder powerplants, they struggle to compete with electric motors' instant torque and silent operation. Even Ferrari's new 'piccolo V12,'a 2.9-litre V6 engine in the 296 GTB, is receiving accolades instead of criticism. The charm of the V12 is now more evident than ever, a sentiment heightened by the rarity of new V12 models like the upcoming Aventador. The automotive world is seeing fewer of these magnificent engines, making the ones still available all the more special.
The Lister Jaguar XJ-S 'Le Mans' emerged in 1989 after six years of development, embodying the raw power and sophistication that make V12 engines so revered, while boasting a proper manual transmission, widebody kit, and impressive wheels. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)
One of the most impressive V12 engines ever installed in a production car can be found in the 1985 Jaguar XJ-S. This engine is larger than those in any Lamborghini, Ferrari, or even the McLaren F1. The only engine that rivals its size is the V12 in the Pagani Zonda. For aficionados of twelve-cylinder engines, the 1985 Jaguar XJ-S is a dream come true, embodying the raw power and sophistication that makes V12 engines so revered.
With only 20 units produced, the Lister Jaguar XJ-S 'Le Mans' was a rare gem in the automotive world, debuting just before the firm introduced its legendary Storm race car. (Picture from: ShmooAutomotive)
Lister is a name synonymous with excellence in sports car racing history. The Lister-Jaguar, designed by Brian Lister, dominated its first full racing season in 1957. In the following decades, Lister cars became a force in GT racing worldwide. By the early 1980s, Lister expanded its legacy to road cars, with highly modified XJ-S models marketed as Lister-Jaguars, thanks to agreements with BLE Automotive and WP Automotive.
The Lister Jaguar XJ-S 'Le Mans' featured a wider track, 17-inch Lister-branded alloy wheels under flared fenders, and wider bumpers for a refined look. (Picture from: PistoHeads)
The culmination of Lister's efforts occurred in 1989 after six years of development. Dubbed the Lister Le Mans, it featured a bored-out version of the XJS V12 engine paired with not one but two superchargers. The car also boasted a widebody kit, an impressive set of wheels, and a proper manual transmission.
This was not merely a modified XJ-S but a thoroughly re-engineered supercar. The only original parts retained were the doors, windscreen glass, front suspension uprights, wishbones, and alternator. With only 20 units produced, the Lister Le Mans was a rare gem in the automotive world, debuting just before the firm introduced its legendary Storm race car.
Inside, the Lister Jaguar XJ-S 'Le Mans' features a luxurious Lister Recaro leather interior. (Picture from: PistoHeads)
The Lister Le Mans featured a wider track, 17-inch Lister-branded alloy wheels under flared fenders, and wider bumpers for a refined look. It also boasted a new suspension setup and AP Racing brakes on all four corners, ensuring superb handling and stopping power. The car was named to celebrate Jaguar's success at the Le Mans race in the late 1980s, transforming the Jaguar XJ-S into a 200 mph supercar.
Under the hood, the Lister Le Mans housed a 7.0-litre version of Jaguar's V12 engine, reworked to produce 604 bhp and a similar torque figure, ensuring breathtaking acceleration in any gear. The suspension, brakes, wheels, and tires were all upgraded to handle the immense power, while a sleek body kit maintained stability at high speeds.
The Lister Jaguar XJ-S 'Le Mans,' powered by a reworked 7.0-litre V12 engine producing 604 bhp, accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. (Picture from: PistoHeads)
The basic XJ-S body underwent extensive modifications, including large alloy wheels, restyled rear buttresses, and a variety of ground-hugging skirts and spoilers. Inside, the car featured a luxurious Lister Recaro leather interior.
For those who found the standard V12 Jaguar engine lacking, Lister offered a comprehensive tuning package. This included modified fuel injection with additional injectors and throttle bodies, a tweaked engine management system, gas-flowed heads with larger valves, and a nitrided crankshaft. Cosworth conrods and special forged pistons were used, along with new bearings and a modified oil system, to reliably deliver 604 bhp.
The
Lister Jaguar XJ-S 'Le Mans' was not merely a modified XJ-S but a thoroughly re-engineered supercar.(Picture from: ShmooAutomotive)
The result was a car capable of a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 4.5 seconds, outperforming contemporaries like the Ferrari Testarossa and Lamborghini Countach. The Lister Le Mans stood as a testament to the brilliance of V12 engineering and the dedication of those who sought to push automotive boundaries.
The Lister Jaguar XJ-S 'Le Mans' was built on the basic XJ-S body, which underwent extensive modifications, including large alloy wheels, restyled rear buttresses, and various ground-hugging skirts and spoilers.(Picture from: ShmooAutomotive)
As the automotive industry shifts towards more environmentally friendly technologies, the V12 engine's days are numbered. However, the legacy of these powerful machines lives on in the memories of enthusiasts and the history of remarkable cars like the Lister Le Mans. This era of automotive excellence may be ending, but its impact will be remembered for generations to come.
The Lister Jaguar XJ-S 'Le Mans' stood as a testament to the brilliance of V12 engineering and the dedication of those who sought to push automotive boundaries.(Picture from: PistoHeads)
In this ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology, the V12 engine remains a symbol of an era defined by power, innovation, and passion. The transition to electric and more efficient engines is inevitable, but the legacy of the V12 will continue to inspire and captivate those who appreciate the artistry of automotive engineering.
As we look forward to new advancements, the story of the V12 will always hold a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts. The grandeur of the V12 era, marked by remarkable cars like the Lister Le Mans, ensures its spirit will endure even as the automotive world transforms. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LISTER | PISTONHEADS | ROADANDTRACK | CLASSICINSIDER | BONHAMS | SHMOOAUTOMOTIVE | DIECASTXCHANGE ]
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This extraordinary roadster continues to be a source of inspiration, not just for car enthusiasts but for anyone who values creativity and perseverance. Its story encourages us to pursue our dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem. The Wolfwagen is a reminder that with vision and dedication, we can create something truly remarkable. It stands as a tribute to the power of human ingenuity and the timeless appeal of beautifully crafted automobiles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | INTERESTINGPENNSYLVANIA | UNDISCOVEREDCLASSICS | CONCEPTCARZ ]
