📢Rare ONES - At the 2024 Monterey Car Week, Pagani stunned the world not only with the debut of the Utopia Roadster but also with rumors of another remarkable vehicle—the Pagani Zonda Arrivederci. This exclusive model, rumored to be the final iteration of the iconic Zonda series, has generated significant excitement among automotive enthusiasts. Though the manufacturer has kept details under wraps, the buzz surrounding this special edition has only grown, fueled by a striking rendering from Modena Design, a Scottish-based supercar rendering specialist.
The
Pagani Zonda Arrivederci is reportedly the 140th example built,
promised to be the final new Zonda model, and made specifically for
American businessman and car collector Kris Singh. (Picture from: TopGear)
The supercar is reportedly the 140th example built, promised to be the final new Zonda model, and made specifically for American businessman and car collector Kris Singh, making it an incredibly rare and highly coveted vehicle. Although Pagani has not released official images, Modena Design's rendering offers an enticing preview of what's to come. The car features a Zonda Roadster body with clear ties to the 760 series, yet it stands out with several unique custom elements.
The
Pagani Zonda Arrivederci will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most iconic and significant models in the brand’s history. (Picture from: TopGear)
Among these is the use of a distinctive composite material that incorporates Alutex, giving the car a bright silver sheen. This is beautifully contrasted with black accents and striking blue-red details that adorn various parts of the car, such as the wheel housing, rocker panels, hood, headlight surrounds, roof scoop, shark fin antenna, and the imposing rear wing.
The Pagani Zonda Arrivederci is reportedly the 140th example built, promised to be the final new Zonda model, and made specifically for American businessman and car collector Kris Singh. (Picture from: Carscoops)
One of the most eye-catching features of the Zonda Arrivederci is its rear spoiler. Inspired by the Zonda JC, this unique wing stands out not only for its design but also for its positioning, which is notably higher than that of previous Zonda spoilers. This, combined with carbon ceramic brakes and red brake calipers, gives the Arrivederci an aggressive and purposeful stance.
The Pagani Zonda Arrivederci features a Zonda Roadster body with clear ties to the 760 series, yet it stands out with several unique custom elements. (Picture from: TopGear)
Inside, the Arrivederci continues to impress with an interior that is as bold as it is luxurious. The use of bright red leather creates a striking contrast, while elements such as carbon fiber and classic wooden accents on the steering wheel enhance the car’s premium feel. These details come together to create an interior that is both modern and timeless, reflecting Pagani’s dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The Pagani Zonda Arrivederci features a distinctive Alutex-infused composite material that gives it a bright silver sheen, beautifully contrasted by black accents and striking blue-red details across various parts of the car.(Picture from: Carbuzz)
While the exact specifications of the Zonda Arrivederci’s engine remain a mystery, it is widely believed that the car will feature the same naturally aspirated V12 engine found in other Zonda 760 models. With a displacement of 7.3 liters, this engine is expected to produce an impressive 760 horsepower, ensuring that the Arrivederci delivers the thrilling performance that Pagani is known for.
The Pagani Zonda Arrivederci boasts a bold and luxurious interior, where bright red leather contrasts strikingly with carbon fiber and classic wooden accents on the steering wheel, enhancing its premium feel. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
As with all Pagani models, the price of the Zonda Arrivederci is expected to be nothing short of extraordinary. To provide some context, the Pagani Utopia Roadster, which also debuted at the 2024 Monterey Car Week, is estimated to cost around £2.6 million (approximately Rp.47.9 billion) and rises to £3.1 million (around Rp.56.9 billion) after tax. Given the Arrivederci’s exclusivity and significance as the final Zonda, it wouldn’t be surprising if its price surpassed these figures.
With carbon ceramic brakes and red brake calipers, gives the Pagani Zonda Arrivederci an aggressive and purposeful stance. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
The arrival of the Zonda Arrivederci will mark the end of an era for Pagani. The Zonda’s journey began at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show with the debut of the Pagani Zonda C12, a car that laid the foundation for Pagani’s reputation as a creator of some of the world’s most exquisite and high-performance vehicles. Over the years, the Zonda has evolved and captivated the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide, becoming a symbol of innovation, design, and engineering excellence.
The Pagani Zonda Arrivederci is widely believed that the car will feature the same naturally aspirated V12 engine found in other Zonda 760 models. (Picture from: TopGear)
As the curtain falls on the Zonda’s legacy, the Arrivederci serves as a fitting tribute to a car that has left an indelible mark on the automotive world. It represents not just the culmination of years of development and refinement, but also a celebration of what has made the Zonda so special—a combination of breathtaking design, unparalleled performance, and an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a supercar can be.
In the years to come, the Pagani Zonda Arrivederci will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most iconic and significant models in the brand’s history. For those fortunate enough to own one of these rare vehicles, it will be more than just a car; it will be a piece of automotive history, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Zonda, and a symbol of Pagani’s relentless pursuit of perfection. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MODENA DESIGN | TOPGEAR | MOTORAUTHORITY | CARBUZZ | CARSCOOPS ]
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Ready to Hits - Motorcycles have always sparked imagination, and when you blend the allure of superbikes with the iconic designs of famous sports cars, the result is bound to be extraordinary. This concept comes to life in the imaginative world of Kardesign Konsepts, where British designer Kar Lee, using a combination of Midjourney AI and traditional Photoshop techniques, creates stunning visualizations of superbikes inspired by legendary cars like the Ford Mustang, GT40, Ferrari, and Tesla. These creations, though digital, exude a sense of realism that makes one wonder if they could ever exist on the open road.
The Ferrari 1197 Furai motorcycle concept by Kardesign. (Picture from: KardesignKoncepts)
Among these remarkable designs, one that particularly stands out is the superbike adorned in the striking 'Italiano Rosso Corsa' hue, famously associated with Ferrari. This design captivates the imagination with its bold presence and meticulous detail. Writing about Rampante Cavallino motorcycles often feels like discussing a dream because they seem so distant from reality. The Italian automotive giant has historically shown little interest in producing two-wheeled machines, despite this not being their first foray into the motorcycle world.
The Ferrari Barracuda motorcycle concept by Kardesign. (Picture from: KardesignKoncepts)
In fact, the Ferrari brand is associated with only one official motorcycle in existence: the Ferrari 900. This unique bike was crafted as a tribute to Enzo Ferrari, the legendary founder of the brand, who passed away in 1988. Dave Kay Engineering took it upon themselves to honor Ferrari’s legacy by creating this commemorative motorcycle.
The 1995 Ferrari 900 by David Kay Engineering with its authenticity sealed by the chassis code SF-01M, marking it as the only Ferrari motorcycle ever created. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
With the approval of Ferrari's heir, the project commenced, culminating in the birth of a one-of-a-kind machine after 3,000 hours of meticulous work over four years. The result was a motorcycle boasting 105 horsepower, with its authenticity sealed by the chassis code SF-01M, marking it as the only Rampante Cavallino motorcycle ever created.
The Ford GT10 motorcycle concept by Kardesign inspired by the legendary Ford GT40. (Picture from: KardesignKoncepts)
Fast forward to today, and Kar Lee has once again captured the essence of Ferrari in his latest digital masterpiece. The design, showcasing the iconic Prancing Horse logo, is nothing short of spectacular. Wrapped in Ferrari's signature red, the motorcycle exudes elegance and power.
The design subtly echoes the lines of the Ducati Panigale, particularly in the linear strip running along the body and the recognizable swingarm design. These elements hint at a connection to Ducati, another prestigious Italian brand known for its high-performance motorcycles.
The Ford Coyote motorcycle concept by Kardesigninspired by the legendary Ford Mustang. (Picture from: KardesignKoncepts)
What sets this Ferrari-inspired superbike apart, however, is its clean and aerodynamic design. Unlike many modern superbikes that sport aggressive spoilers and winglets, this concept embraces simplicity and fluidity in its lines. The side fairings feature well-placed intakes, and the mirrors are designed to be both functional and visually appealing.
A thought-provoking aspect of this design is the question of what engine would power such a magnificent machine. Enthusiasts and commentators alike have speculated that the ideal engine for this superbike would be a Ducati V4, capable of producing an impressive 218 horsepower and 124 Nm of torque. With a bit of tuning, such as the addition of a Performance Racing exhaust by Akrapovic, the power output could potentially reach 234 horsepower, making it a force to be reckoned with on both the road and the track.
The Tesla One motorcycle concept by Kardesign. (Picture from: KardesignKoncepts)
The history of Ferrari's involvement with motorcycles is sparse, but there is a notable connection with MV Agusta, another Italian motorcycle manufacturer. The two brands once collaborated on the development of the F4 engine, showcasing the potential of a partnership between Ferrari and a motorcycle manufacturer. One can only imagine the possibilities if Ferrari and MV Agusta combined their expertise to create a truly exceptional motorcycle.
A design sketch of what is being called a Ferrari electric motorcycle, created by a former Ferrari designer. (Picture from: TodoCircuito)
Interestingly, a former Ferrari designer once ventured into the realm of motorcycle design, sketching out his vision of what a Ferrari motorcycle could look like. To the surprise of many, he envisioned this machine as an electric motorcycle, a nod to the future of automotive technology. While this idea may not sit well with traditionalists, it reflects the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive industry, where even the most revered brands must adapt to new trends and innovations. | ofS3l__lCXI | VwQDcM_PiOE |
As we contemplate these fascinating concepts, it becomes clear that the
world of motorcycles is not just about speed and performance. It's also
about the passion, creativity, and innovation that drive designers and
engineers to push the boundaries of what's possible. Whether or not these Ferrari-inspired superbikes ever make it to production, they serve as a reminder of the endless possibilities that exist when imagination meets engineering prowess. The fusion of automotive and motorcycle design opens up a world of potential, where the limits are defined only by our creativity
📢New EV BEAST - In the world of classic European cars, the name Hispano Suiza might not be as well-known to everyone, especially outside the circle of car enthusiasts. However, this brand has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1904. Though it might be better remembered by some for its World War II aircraft engines, Hispano Suiza made a significant mark in the automotive world by producing 12,000 luxury cars between 1940 and 1946. After that, the brand seemed to fade into history, at least until recent years.
The Hispano Suiza Carmen Sagrera boldly signaled the brand's return to the modern automotive world, drawing inspiration from the 1920s and the iconic Hispano Suiza Alfonso XIII. (Picture from: BincangBincangMobil)
📢New BEAST - The anticipation for the Nilu27 supercar designed by Sasha Selipanov has been building ever since the first teaser surfaced online in May 2024. Selipanov, known for his work with Bugatti and Koenigsegg, has captivated the automotive world with the promise of a new V12-powered, manually-driven hypercar. Scheduled for its grand premiere on August 15, 2024, at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, this car has enthusiasts eagerly waiting to see its full form.
The Nilu27 is a new V12-powered, manually-driven hypercar designed by Sasha Selipanov and sets its debut at the prestigious 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. (Picture from: TopGear)
At the heart of this hypercar lies a 6.5-litre, naturally aspirated V12 engine, developed in collaboration with New Zealand’s Hartley Engines. This powertrain, designed to rev close to 12,000 rpm, represents a delicate balance between peak performance and reliability. Nelson Harley, founder of Hartley Engines, describes it as a bespoke creation, emphasizing its aggressive cams, port flow, lightweight components, and exotic materials. This engine is expected to deliver an exhilarating driving experience.
The Nilu27 hypercar's design includes advanced engineering features such as double wishbone and pushrod suspension, a carbon monocoque with aluminum-alloy tubular subframes, and a custom-built tub. (Picture from: TopGear)
Selipanov asserts that Nilu27, is driven by experience and emotion rather than mere numbers. However, with an output exceeding 1,000 bhp and a curb weight of around 1,200 kg, the car’s specifications are undeniably impressive. Power is transmitted through a seven-speed, open-gate, longitudinally-mounted manual gearbox, promising a raw and engaging driving experience.
The Nilu27 hypercar exterior boasts tight angles and small crevices, contributing to a sleek and aerodynamic profile. (Picture from: TopGear)
The hypercar's design includes advanced engineering features such as double wishbone and pushrod suspension, a carbon monocoque with aluminum-alloy tubular subframes, and a custom-built tub. While these elements are common in high-performance vehicles, the design truly sets this car apart. The exterior boasts tight angles and small crevices, contributing to a sleek and aerodynamic profile. The exposed mechanical rear end enhances cooling and gives the car a distinctive look.
The Nilu27 hypercar interior is minimalistic, with the only computerized element being the digital rear-view mirror. Everything else remains traditional, enhancing the raw driving experience. (Picture from: TopGear)
A notable feature is the 12-into-1 exhaust headers, which are prominently displayed and culminate in high, centrally-positioned triple Inconel exhaust tips. The car rides on 20/21in AppTech center-lock wheels paired with Brembo carbon ceramic brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, ensuring top-tier performance on the road or track.
The Nilu27 hypercar access to the cabin is via gull-wing doors, revealing a space inspired by late Sixties Le Mans prototypes like the Ferrari 330 P4. (Picture from: TopGear)
Access to the cabin is via gull-wing doors, revealing a space inspired by late Sixties Le Mans prototypes like the Ferrari 330 P4. The fixed, sunken seats create a tight but purposeful environment. The interior is minimalistic, with the only computerized element being the digital rear-view mirror. Everything else remains traditional, enhancing the raw driving experience.
The Nilu27 is powered by a 6.5-litre, naturally aspirated V12 engine, developed in collaboration with New Zealand’s Hartley Engines. (Picture from: TopGear)
Selipanov’s vision for the car is clear: to create a vehicle that is thrilling and accessible, without requiring extreme physical prowess. He wants a car that excites the senses and provides an old-school, no-nonsense driving experience. This philosophy stems from his own experiences with high-performance vehicles, where he found more joy in stripped-down, straightforward cars than in overly refined supercars.
A notable feature of the Nilu27 hypercar is the 12-into-1 exhaust headers, which are prominently displayed and culminate in high, centrally-positioned triple Inconel exhaust tips. (Picture from: TopGear)
The Nilu27 will initially be produced in a limited run of 15 track-only launch editions, followed by 54 street-legal units. While the price remains unconfirmed, the car's debut at Pebble Beach will likely spark significant interest and demand. Production is expected to begin in Irvine, California by Aria Group shortly after the reveal. | jRLjz9qhOV4 |
As the world moves forward, the combination of futuristic design and analog driving experience offered by the Nilu27 may well become highly sought after. The anticipation for its debut is a testament to the enduring allure of innovative and passionate automotive design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HARDLINE27 | NILU27| TOPGEAR | ]
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📢Mysterious ONES🫵 - Stumbling upon intriguing stories while surfing the web is always a delight, and a recent Facebook post by Jeep Captain on July 7, 2024, is no exception. It recounted the tale of the Packard Clipper Eight sedan allegedly had owned by General Douglas MacArthur, a prominent American military figure during World War II. This story, however, has sparked a mix of fascination and skepticism among the public.
The 1942 Packard Clipper Eight sedan, allegedly owned by General Douglas MacArthur during World War II, is believed to be one of the replicas made by David Schmitt. (Picture from: Jeep Captain in Facebook)
In 1942, General Douglas MacArthur was said to have ordered a Packard Clipper Eight sedan, equipped with nearly every available option, including air conditioning, overdrive, and a radio. According to the tale, MacArthur did not simply order the car; he saved it from being disassembled for its parts to build PT boats, claiming it as war material. It's said that the base price of the car, initially $1,341, nearly doubled to $2,600. The car remained in MacArthur's possession until 1948, when he gifted it to his driver.
The Army staff car, a 1942 Clipper used by Gen. Douglas MacArthur, resides at America’s Packard Museum. (Picture from: NYTimes)
For the next three decades, the car languished in a barn in Texas. How come? MacArthur had arranged for the car to be shipped to San Diego via the aircraft carrier Princeton, and from there, it was transported on a military flatbed to Fort Sam Houston, Texas, before being released to his driver in Dallas. The driver intended to have the military hardware removed and the car repainted, but he passed away before this could happen. The car was left untouched for years, and it's said still containing MacArthur's old army hat and his famous corncob pipe.
The 1947 Packard Custom Super Clipper Eight Army Staff Car, a replica of the 1942 WWII Army staff car used by US General Douglas MacArthur, was crafted by David Schmitt.(Picture from: Schmitt)
Despite the captivating narrative, the article fails to provide the current location or owner of the car, is believed to be one of the replicas made by David Schmitt. However, according to the NYTimes, the original 1942 Packard Clipper Eight sedan once used by Gen. Douglas MacArthur is currently housed in America's Packard Museum.
The replica of the 1942 WWII Army staff car used by US General Douglas MacArthur is adorned with an impeccably maintained blue interior including MacArthur's old army hat and his famous corncob pipe. (Picture from: Schmitt)
Moreover, a reader's comment on the Facebook post vehemently denies the story, labeling it as fake. The commenter, a member of the Society of Automotive Historians (SAH), claimed to have debunked the story along with his friend, Darwin Lumley. They pointed out several inconsistencies, such as MacArthur's preference for Cadillacs and the fact that the ship purportedly bringing the Packard back to the United States was sunk off Luzon in Leyte Gulf before the car could have been shipped.
The 1934 Cadillac V16 Series 90 Fleetwood Transformable Town Car Cabriolet, used by Manuel L. Quezon from 1934-1937 and then by General Douglas MacArthur, may now reside in a museum in the Philippines. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The debunkers highlighted further discrepancies, noting that MacArthur favored Cadillacs during his time in the Philippines, where he owned two Cadillacswith the license plates USA-1 and USA-2. Additionally, the improbability of the Packard making its way back to the USA aboard a sunken vessel raises serious doubts about the authenticity of the story.
The 1950 Chrysler Crown Imperial limousine served as General MacArthur’s personal staff car during its heyday. (Picture from: Hagerty)
Another interesting point raised was the rarity of the 1942 Packard. Most car companies introduced their new models in November, but Packard launched their line in March. Due to the war, all 1942 Packards were immediately requisitioned as war material, with their engines being used in PT boats—two engines per boat. Only a small number remained as staff cars, and the majority of these ended up in Burma (now Myanmar). There, parts inventories and small-scale machine shops kept the 1942 Packards in use as taxis until the 1980s.
The 1950 Chrysler Crown Imperial limousine that served as General MacArthur’s personal staff car now sits on display at the MacArthur Memorial Museum. (Picture from: Philstar)
The tale of General MacArthur's Packard Clipper Eight sedan is undoubtedly a fascinating one, filled with historical intrigue and mystery. Whether true or not, it underscores the allure and mystique surrounding rare wartime vehicles and their supposed ties to legendary figures. Even if the story has been debunked, it remains a captivating piece of automotive folklore, sparking the imagination and curiosity of car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. What do you think?*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AMERICASPACKARDMUSEUM | MACARTHURMEMORIAL | HAGERTY | JEEPCAPTAIN | OCALAAUTOREPAIRS | NYTIMES | SCHMITT | PHILSTAR | WIKIPEDIA | AUTOHISTORY.ORG ]
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⚠️Unseen BEAST💥 - Audi's remarkable success in the world of motorsport is undeniable, particularly from 2000 to 2014. During this period, Audi prototypes triumphed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans 13 times. If such dominance had occurred in the ’90s, it's conceivable that Audi would have developed a road-going version of its best racing cars.
The Audi Skorpion Concept, a vehicle envisioned to outshine models like the 911 GT1 or CLK-GTR and based on the Audi DTM racing car, sat on display at the Horch Museum in Zwickau, Germany. (Picture from: TheDrive)
In 2013, Audi explored the concept of developing a high-end sports car named the Audi Skorpion, a vehicle envisioned to outshine models such the 911 GT1 or CLK-GTR and based on the Audi DTM racing car. Positioned as a halo vehicle above the Audi R8, the Skorpion aimed to combine track performance with luxury and exclusivity. However, due to unspecified challenges, the ambitious "Project Skorpion" was eventually shelved.
This non-functional design study of the Audi Skorpion provides a glimpse into what could have been if it had been brought into production. (Picture from: id.Motor1)
The Skorpion, as it was internally named, recently made an appearance in Audi’s Horch Museum in Zwickau, Germany. This non-functional design study offers a glimpse into what could have been. The museum shared several images of the Skorpion, evoking a bittersweet reflection on this unrealized vision. The Skorpion was envisioned as a street version of the R18 TDI series, similar to the Porsche 911 GT1 Straßenversion or the Mercedes CLK-GTR. It was intended to sit above the R8 in Audi's lineup of road cars.
The Audi Skorpion was envisioned as a street version of the R18 TDI series, similar to the 911 GT1 Strassenversion or the Mercedes CLK-GTR. (Picture from: TheDrive)
Like its sibling R18 in between 2010 and 2013, Skorpion featured a 3.7-liter turbocharged diesel V6 with hybrid power. This combination could have made the Skorpiona unique diesel hypercar, likely the only one of its kind. Audi had previously explored this concept with the R8 V12 TDI, which never reached production due to cost issues. The Skorpion project aimed to bring Audi’s race-winning diesel technology to a limited number of affluent customers, with plans to build only 333 units.
The Audi Skorpion's design resembles that of a Le Mans prototype but is more compact, featuring a shortened wheelbase and a chunkier body. (Picture from: TheDrive)
The Skorpion's design resembles that of a Le Mans prototype but is more compact, with a shortened wheelbase and a chunkier body. Unlike the R18, which was designed for maximum downforce with extensive air channels, the Skorpion’s design focused more on aesthetics suitable for road use. While the R18's design was not universally admired, especially towards the end of its career, the Skorpion’s design offered a much more appealing visual.
The Audi Skorpion’s design offered a much more appealing visual and focused more on aesthetics suitable for road use. (Picture from: id.Motor1)
By 2013, Audi's dream of a production diesel hypercar was shelved. Even if the project had progressed further, it would have faced significant challenges, especially following the Dieselgate scandal that impacted Volkswagen Group's plans. The cancellation of the Skorpion project remains a point of lament for automotive enthusiasts. For those who saw the rumors and renderings about a decade ago and wondered what happened, the Skorpion's appearance in the Horch Museum can at least provide some relief and logical answers.
Project Skorpion can be viewed as a road-going iteration of the Audi R18 e-tron Quattro, marking the pinnacle of Audi's endurance racing dominance.(Picture from: AutoRepublika)
Audi's exploration into creating a road-going hypercar from its racing technology highlights the brand's innovative spirit and ambition. Although the Skorpion never came to fruition, it stands as a testament to Audi’s forward-thinking approach and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering. This glimpse into what could have been serves as a reminder of the possibilities that lie ahead in the automotive industry.
This is how the Audi R18 racing car looked by the end of its tenure while in raced the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans race.(Picture from: TheDrive)
The Skorpion’s story is a fascinating chapter in Audi's history. It symbolizes a blend of ambition and innovation, showcasing what happens when a brand dares to dream beyond conventional limits. Even though the Skorpion remains a concept, its legacy inspires continued innovation and serves as a beacon of what might be achieved with bold vision and engineering prowess.
Audi's journey in motorsport and their attempt to translate racing success into a road-going hypercar underscores the brand's dedication to excellence and innovation. The Skorpion, while never realized, represents a bold vision of what Audi could achieve. As we look to the future, Audi’s ambitious spirit continues to drive the company forward, promising exciting developments in automotive technology and design. The Skorpion will always be a symbol of what might have been, sparking the imagination and inspiring future endeavors in the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUDICLUBNA | ID.MOTOR1 | THEDRIVE | SUPERCARBLONDIE | AUTOREPUBLIKA ]
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