Contera MD1: Ready to Challenge Supercar Giants

New Contender - What more can you expect? Meet the Contera MD1, a British marvel born from a passion for Group C racing and the ambition to create a bespoke supercar. Designed by David Halford and Michail Papastergiou, this mid-engine GT car embodies the essence of speed and innovation from its barn-built origins in the UK.

The Contera MD1, a British marvel born from a passion for Group C racing and the ambition to create a bespoke supercar, was designed by David Halford and Michail Papastergiou. (Picture from: Luxatic)

Defined by its striking exterior, the Contera MD1 boasts a Group C-inspired teardrop roof and a sleek, curvaceous body that commands attention. Echoing the McLaren F1, it features a central driving position flanked by two rear passenger seats, ensuring a unique three-seater configuration tailored for international markets.

The Contera MD1 boasts a wrap-around windscreen that provides unparalleled visibility, essential for both spirited drives and long-distance comfort. (Picture from: Luxatic)

The MD1’s design not only pays homage to Group C heritage but also prioritizes functionality. Its wrap-around windscreen provides unparalleled visibility, essential for both spirited drives and long-distance comfort. This driver-centric layout, combined with spacious interiors and ergonomic controls, guarantees a superior driving experience whether in left or right-hand drive settings.

The Contera MD1 is housed within a meticulously engineered chassis that ensures optimal weight distribution and superb handling, crucial for both road legal use and competitive racing. (Picture from: Luxatic)

Under the hood, the Contera MD1 packs a punch with its 1JZ-GTE 2.5-liter twin-turbocharged engine, delivering up to 300 hp in standard form and up to 700 hp in customized variants. This power is housed within a meticulously engineered chassis that ensures optimal weight distribution and superb handling, crucial for both road legal use and competitive racing.

This driver-centric layout, combined with spacious interiors and ergonomic controls, guarantees a superior driving experience whether in left or right-hand drive settings. (Picture from: Contera.uk)

Beyond performance, the MD1 is equipped with modern comforts including ABS, digital dash, and a premium sound system, all standard to enhance the driving pleasure. Its adaptable design allows for easy engine swaps, accommodating anything from V6s to V12s, making it a versatile canvas for enthusiasts and professionals alike to customize their dream ride.

Under the hood, the Contera MD1 packs a punch with its 1JZ-GTE 2.5-liter twin-turbocharged engine, delivering up to 300 hp in standard form and up to 700 hp in customized variants. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Perhaps most impressive is the Contera MD1’s affordability, priced at just £55,000 ($81,000 or €75,290). This makes it not only a competitive option against established supercars like the Porsche 911 or Dodge Viper but also a testament to Contera’s commitment to making high-performance driving accessible without compromising quality or innovation.

In conclusion, the Contera MD1 represents more than just a car; it’s a testament to British engineering ingenuity and a bold step forward in the world of bespoke supercars. Whether on the road or track, its blend of style, performance, and affordability ensures it stands out as a true icon of automotive craftsmanship. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CONTERA.UK | LUXATIC | AUTOBLOG | MOTORAUTHORITY ]

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MC20 GT2 Stradale: Maserati's Ultimate Road-Ready Beast

📢New BEAST - Maserati, the legendary Italian automaker with the iconic trident logo, has once again captured the attention of automotive enthusiasts with its latest creation. Since the launch of the Maserati MC20 in 2020, the brand has been on a roll, introducing several models based on this groundbreaking supercar. Each variant has left a distinct mark on the global high-performance car market, showcasing Maserati's commitment to innovation and excellence. Now, the spotlight shines on their newest marvel, the Maserati GT2 Stradale, which made its grand debut at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering in 2024.

The Maserati GT2 Stradale is a road-legal version of Maserati's GT2 race car based on the MC20 supercar, and brings power upgrades, improved aerodynamics, and blistering speed. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The GT2 Stradale is more than just another model in Maserati's lineup; it's a statement of power, precision, and design. Drawing heavily from its predecessor, the MC20, the GT2 Stradale takes everything that made the MC20 great and pushes it to new extremes. The moment you lay eyes on this car, it's impossible not to notice the radical changes. The aerodynamic enhancements are evident in the aggressive lines and functional features that define the GT2 Stradale's exterior. 

The Maserati GT2 Stradale's hood, reimagined with vents to expel hot air, signals the car's readiness for high-speed challenges.. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The front end, for instance, boasts a new "shark nose" bumper with a large chin spoiler and enlarged intakes designed to keep the engine cool even under the most intense conditions. The hood, reimagined with vents to expel hot air, signals the car's readiness for high-speed challenges.

The Maserati GT2 Stradale's front end, boasts a new "shark nose" bumper with a large chin spoiler and enlarged intakes designed to keep the engine cool even under the most intense conditions. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

As your eyes move along the vehicle, the new front fenders catch your attention, complete with vents that help cool the brakes while adding to the car's overall aggressive look. The design isn't just for show; it's a testament to Maserati's dedication to combining form and function. The rear of the car is just as striking, with redesigned intakes that increase airflow to the radiators and intake by 16%, ensuring optimal performance. 

The Maserati GT2 Stradale straddles the line between the absurdly quick GT2 race car and the standard MC20 supercar. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The massive rear wing, inspired by the GT2 racer, is not just for aesthetics; it's fully adjustable to suit various driving conditions, providing the necessary downforce to keep the car glued to the track. Large portions of the rear bumper are left open, exposing the wide rear tires and contributing to the car's formidable presence.

The Maserati GT2 Stradale's chassis retains the carbon fiber monocoque structure from the MC20, but with significant upgrades. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

Beneath the surface, the GT2 Stradale is powered by a revised 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, a slightly enhanced version of the one found in the MC20. This powerhouse now delivers 640 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque, allowing the car to rocket from 0 to 62 mph in a blistering 2.8 seconds. With a top speed of 201 mph, the GT2 Stradale is a force to be reckoned with on both the road and the track.  

The Maserati GT2 Stradale's interior is streamlined, with essential functions on physical buttons and everything else integrated into the screen. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

Maserati has made several tweaks to the engine, including modifications to the turbochargers and exhaust system, which contribute to the extra 10 horsepower over the standard MC20. The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission has also been refined, offering quicker shifts and a revised E-LSD that ensures power is delivered smoothly and effectively.

The Maserati GT2 Stradale is powered by a revised 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, a slightly enhanced version of the one found in the MC20. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The chassis of the GT2 Stradale retains the carbon fiber monocoque structure from the MC20, but with significant upgrades. Maserati has equipped the GT2 Stradale with GT2-spec suspension, enhancing the car's handling capabilities far beyond that of the MC20. A new steering system, designed specifically for track use, offers precise control, while the brakes, developed in collaboration with Brembo, provide unmatched stopping power. Even the car's drive modes have been reworked, with stability control, traction control, and ABS systems all fine-tuned to handle the demands of high-speed driving. For those looking for even more control on the track, Maserati offers a "Corsa EVO" drive mode as part of an optional Performance Pack, which includes semi-slick Michelin tires, the advanced E-LSD, and carbon ceramic brakes.

The massive rear wing, inspired by the GT2 racer, is not just for aesthetics; it's fully adjustable to suit various driving conditions, providing the necessary downforce to keep the car glued to the track. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

Inside, the GT2 Stradale is as extreme as its exterior suggests. The interior design strips away excess, focusing on what truly matters for a high-performance driving experience. The center console has been redesigned with fewer buttons and switches, ensuring that the driver can easily access essential controls. Carbon fiber bucket seats, available in different sizes, provide the support needed for intense track sessions, though Maserati also offers the option of more comfortable seats from the MC20. The steering wheel has been updated with a thicker rim and shift lights, adding to the car's racing credentials. Despite its track-focused nature, the GT2 Stradale doesn't sacrifice comfort and convenience, retaining the MC20's UConnect infotainment system, digital cluster, and premium Sonus Faber sound system, along with several driver assistance features.

The Maserati GT2 Stradale The Maserati GT2 Stradale's rear with redesigned intakes that increase airflow to the radiators and intake by 16%, ensuring optimal performance. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The GT2 Stradale is not just a car; it's a statement of Maserati's relentless pursuit of perfection. While pricing details have yet to be announced, it's clear that the GT2 Stradale will command a premium over the MC20's base price of $242,995. With a selection of standard colors and the option for further customization through Maserati's Fuoriserie program, each GT2 Stradale can be tailored to reflect the owner's unique taste. | L_CkvlR2Or4 |

As Maserati continues to push the boundaries of performance and design, the GT2 Stradale stands as a symbol of the brand's enduring legacy and its commitment to delivering the ultimate driving experience. This car is not just about speed or luxury; it's about the passion for driving, the thrill of the track, and the pursuit of automotive excellence. The GT2 Stradale is a reminder that Maserati is not just a brand but a legend in the world of high-performance cars. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MASERATI | AUTOBLOG | CARANDDRIVER ]

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Ewock Returns to Steal the Show at Pacific Grove

The Step Stopper - The story of the Ewock is one that blends creativity, nostalgia, and a touch of the whimsical. Born from the mind of Tony Lazzarini of The 51-50 Foundation, this single-seater electric microcar stands out not just for its unique design, but also for the playful inspiration behind it. The Ewock, named after a fictional creature from the iconic film "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," released in 2015, was first brought to life in 2017. This charming vehicle made its debut at The Little Car Show during Monterey Car Week in the year, an annual event that captures the hearts of automotive enthusiasts across America, held in California.

Look who's behind the steering—both car and driver are ready to greet you at The 51-50 Foundation. (Picture from: The 50-51 Foundation)

The Ewock is not your typical microcar. With its body crafted from two fenders of a 1946 Plymouth, welded together, it immediately sets itself apart from the crowd. Its design is far from ordinary; it’s extraordinary, even from a first glance. The car’s striking appearance, coupled with its cute and compact form, made it an instant hit when it first appeared at The Little Car Show in 2017.

The Ewock is back on the scene, gracing The Little Car Show 2024 in Pacific Grove, CA, remains as captivating as ever. (Picture from: The 50-51 Foundation)

Fast forward to 2024, and after a long period of hibernation, the Ewock is back on the scene, once again gracing The Little Car Show at Pacific Grove, CA. Its return has been nothing short of spectacular. The moment visitors laid eyes on it, they couldn’t help but stop in their tracks, drawn in by its irresistible charm. The Ewock, with its hot rod-inspired design and its front fascia that channels the spirit of the adorable Star Wars creature, remains as captivating as ever.

The Ewock, with its hot rod-inspired design and front fascia that channels the spirit of the adorable Star Wars creature. (Picture from: The 50-51 Foundation)

Powered by a 12-volt dual bank electric motor, the Ewock operates with belt-driven precision, turning one rear wheel. Its "tiller" steering adds a touch of old-school charm, while the functional lights ensure it’s as practical as it is cute. A horn button, conveniently located on top of the tiller steering handle, emits a "wailing siren" sound, adding to the car’s playful personality. The speedometer, taken from a 1942 GMC Fire truck, is a nod to the past, blending history with modern ingenuity.

The Ewock offers just one seat in its cabin, featuring a "tiller" steering for a touch of old-school charm, along with a completely revamped dashboard that includes a volt gauge and turn signal indicator lights. (Picture from: The 50-51 Foundation)

Since its initial appearance, the Ewock has undergone some modifications, making it even more intriguing. A Continental Kit now houses a spare tire, and new side moldings have been added, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The rear now features a back-up light, and the dashboard has been completely revamped, with the inclusion of a volt gauge and turn signal indicator lights. These enhancements, while subtle, contribute to the overall charm and functionality of the vehicle.

Now, the Ewock features a Continental Kit housing a spare tire, a rear back-up light, and new side moldings, all enhancing its aesthetic appeal. (Picture from: The 50-51 Foundation)

During the 2024 Monterey Car Week, the Ewock wasn’t just a car; it was a spectacle. Accompanied by a full-scale Ewock figurine, it drew crowds of curious onlookers, each one captivated by its uniqueness and undeniable cuteness. The combination of the car and the figurine created a scene straight out of a movie, where fantasy meets reality in the most delightful way.

Looking back, the Ewock, Tony Lazzarini's unique custom minicar, made its debut at The Little Car Show in 2017. Get set, ready? 3...2...1... Go! (Picture from: AutoPuzzles)

After the event, the Ewock returned to its home at The 51-50 Foundation, located at 150 Ford Way, Novato, CA. For those who missed the opportunity to see it at the show, a visit to the club offers a chance to witness this little marvel in person. And it’s not just the Ewock you’ll find there; The 51-50 Foundation is home to many other automotive creations, each one as unique and imaginative as the next. | zqVnJ0vH4dk |

The Ewock, with its blend of creativity, nostalgia, and charm, is more than just a microcar. It’s a testament to the power of imagination and the joy that can come from bringing a whimsical idea to life. Whether you’re a Star Wars fan, a car enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the unusual, the Ewock is sure to leave a lasting impression. It’s not just a car; it’s a little monster that has captured the hearts of many, and it continues to do so every time it rolls onto the scene. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THE 50-51 FOUNDATION | EWOCK | MOTORTREND | AUTOPUZZLES ]

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Lamborghini Temerario: The Next Evolution in Supercars

📢New BEAST - The Lamborghini Huracán, a name that has resonated powerfully among automotive enthusiasts for years, has officially bid its farewell. With its production ceasing this year, the supercar world is abuzz with speculation about its successor. The excitement heightened when Lamborghini, based in Sant'Agata Bolognese, was spotted conducting test drives of a camouflaged vehicle. The whispers of a new era were further amplified by Lamborghini's trademark registration for the name "Temerario," hinting at what might be the Huracán's much-anticipated replacement.

The Temerario is the new key piece of the Lamborghini range, taking over from the Huracán. (Picture from: Marca)

Pininfarina’s Battista Targamerica: A Singular Statement in Hypercar Design

📢ONE-OFF - In a world where innovation meets luxury, Automobili Pininfarina has unveiled a creation that transcends the boundaries of automotive design. The Battista Targamerica, a bespoke electric hypercar, represents a new pinnacle in the realm of personalized vehicles. Born from the vision of a passionate car collector and Battista owner, this one-of-a-kind masterpiece is not merely a car; it is a profound expression of individuality, blending advanced engineering with exquisite craftsmanship.

The Battista Targamerica, a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, is more than just a car; it's a profound expression of individuality, seamlessly blending advanced engineering with exquisite craftsmanship. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

The story of the Battista Targamerica began with a simple yet ambitious idea: to create an open-top hypercar that reflects the unique tastes and personality of its owner. Pininfarina's design team was tasked with bringing this vision to life, and they rose to the challenge by crafting a vehicle that not only matches the aesthetic appeal of the original Battista but surpasses it in terms of exclusivity and personal significance. The car's elegant blue and silver two-tone paint job immediately captures attention, while the re-engineering required to achieve the roofless design ensures that the driving experience remains unparalleled.

The Battista Targamerica's elegant blue and silver two-tone paint job instantly captures attention, while the re-engineering needed for its roofless design guarantees an unparalleled driving experience. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

Drawing inspiration from the 1986 Ferrari Testarossa Spider, a one-off roadster created for Gianni Agnelli, the Battista Targamerica pays homage to automotive history while forging its own path. Commissioned during Monterey Car Week 2023, the car is a testament to the close collaboration between Automobili Pininfarina's artisans and Pininfarina's legendary design house. Every detail of the Battista Targamerica has been meticulously crafted to reflect the owner's personality, making it a true reflection of their tastes, interests, and life story.

The Battista Targamerica has been meticulously crafted to embody the owner's personality, making it a genuine reflection of their tastes, interests, and life story. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

One of the most striking features of the Battista Targamerica is its custom-made ceramic-polished five-spoke wheels. These wheels, adorned with black anodized aluminum center caps, are as unique as the car itself, enhancing its overall aesthetic while providing a subtle nod to the owner's refined taste. The interior, too, is a marvel of bespoke design, with tan leather trim covering the seats, dashboard, and door panels. The contrasting black steering wheel and dashboard add a touch of sophistication, while the bespoke headrests, embossed with Automobili Pininfarina logos, emphasize the car's exclusivity.

One of the most striking features of the Battista Targamerica is its custom-made ceramic-polished five-spoke wheels, adorned with black anodized aluminum center caps. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Among the many personalized touches inside the Battista Targamerica is a custom cigar holder and humidor, a feature that underscores the attention to detail that went into the car's design. This illuminated glass and aluminum case, positioned between the seats, can hold up to three cigars, with the colors of the illumination matching the car's five driving modes: Calma, Pura, Energica, Furiosa, and Carattere. Such thoughtful details highlight the deep connection between the car and its owner, making the Battista Targamerica not just a vehicle but a work of art.

The Battista Targamerica's interior is a masterpiece of bespoke design, featuring tan leather trim that elegantly covers the seats, dashboard, and door panels. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Beneath its striking exterior, the Battista Targamerica is powered by the same impressive technology as the standard Battista. Four electric motors, combined with a 120 kWh battery, deliver a staggering 1,900 horsepower and 1,726 lb-ft of torque. This incredible power allows the Targamerica to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in less than two seconds and reach a top speed of over 186 mph. While the exact price of this one-off creation remains undisclosed, it is clear that the Battista Targamerica is a prized possession, likely valued at well over $3 million.

The Battista Targamerica harnesses the same advanced technology as the standard Battista, delivering 1,900 horsepower and 1,726 lb-ft of torque through its four electric motors and 120 kWh battery. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

The Battista Targamerica stands as a bold statement in the world of hypercars, pushing the limits of what can be achieved when design, technology, and personal vision converge. Automobili Pininfarina's Chief Design Officer, Dave Amantea, emphasized the uniqueness of this creation, noting that it is not just a car but a representation of the owner's personality. The Targamerica will forever remain a one-of-a-kind vehicle, never to be replicated, a symbol of the infinite possibilities that can be realized through bespoke design.

In the end, the Battista Targamerica is more than just a hypercar; it is a celebration of individuality, a fusion of art and technology that sets a new standard for what is possible in the automotive world. This remarkable vehicle is a testament to the power of imagination and the dedication of the artisans at Automobili Pininfarina, who have once again proven that the boundaries of design are meant to be pushed, and that true luxury lies in the ability to create something that is uniquely one's own. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA | CARANDDRIVER | AUTOEXPRESS | CARMAGAZINE | PISTONHEADS | MOTORAUTHORITY | CARBUZZ ]

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Behind the Design: Sanca GT and Its Inspirations

Happy 79th Indonesian Independence Day!

Happy 79th birthday, Indonesia! Let's encourage one another, as Indonesian, to achieve our dreams. Develop the skills needed to compete on the global stage and show the world that Indonesians are the best!
'Always maintain the spirit of patriotism, let it shine within you, and be proud to be Indonesian.'

It's been a great pleasure being with you on this journey.

Merdeka!!

📢Just on Paper🇮🇩 - In the ever-evolving world of automobiles, capturing the public's imagination with a perfect blend of power, speed, and captivating design is essential for each new car model. Legendary sports cars often serve as benchmarks for these creations. The era of supercars has introduced models that deliver stunning performance and come with substantial price tags. Among these, the Ferrari Enzo has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts for its exceptional performance and design. This legendary car has inspired a new creation: the Sanca GT.

The Sanca GT is a two-seater, mid-engine sports car concept inspired by the Ferrari Enzo, but designed to surpass it in every way. (Picture from: Coroflot)

The Sanca GT project began in April 2007, spearheaded by an Indonesian designer Arifin Santoso and a team of European engineers. By 2008, a 1:4 scale model was ready, and over the years, nearly 19,000 hours of meticulous work have been dedicated to perfecting this concept car. Extensive tests and refinements have shaped the Sanca GT into the masterpiece it is today.

Designed by Indonesian designer Arifin Santoso and a team of European engineers, the Sanca GT seamlessly integrates aesthetics, performance, technology, and safety. (Picture from: MotorAdictos)

This 2-seats, mid-engine sportcar concept is a product of the combined efforts of three highly experienced international automotive designers. The Sanca GT seamlessly integrates aesthetics, performance, technology, and safety. Its construction features a carbon hull, a chrome-molybdenum space frame, and independent suspension, making it an engineering marvel.

Measuring 4.33 meters in length and weighing 1,350 kilograms dry, the Sanca GT presents a futuristic and novel appearance. (Picture from: Coroflot)

Measuring 4.33 meters in length and weighing 1,350 kilograms dry, the Sanca GT is powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine from the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. Its lightweight monocoque chassis and impressive 647 horsepower, which can be increased to 720 hp, give it a futuristic and novel appearance.

The Sanca GT's construction features a carbon hull, a chrome-molybdenum space frame, and independent suspension, making it an engineering marvel. (Picture from: Coroflot)

The car boasts 819 Nm of torque, with power delivered to the rear wheels via a 6-speed Xtrac gearbox. Carbon-ceramic brakes further enhance its appeal. The creators estimate that the Sanca GT can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, reach 161 km/h in exactly 7 seconds, and achieve a top speed of 330 km/h.

In April 2011, the scaled model of the Sanca GT made its debut at the Top Marques Monaco, an exclusive car show featuring renowned designs. This event aimed to attract potential investors. The basic version of the Sanca GT, labeled the S650, is estimated to cost €300,000, excluding VAT.

The scaled model of the Sanca GT made its debut at the Top Marques Monaco 2011, an exclusive car show featuring renowned designs, aiming to attract potential investors. (Picture from: Coroflot)

However, despite its promising design and specifications, there has been no further news about the Sanca concept car. It appears that this exceptional vehicle may remain a concept unless serious investors come forward to bring it to production. For those passionate about speed and performance and willing to invest in a piece of automotive brilliance, the Sanca GT holds immense promise.

The Sanca GT boasts a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine from the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, delivering up to 720 hp with its lightweight monocoque chassis, imparting a futuristic and novel appearance. (Picture from: Coroflot)

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the Sanca GT represents a beacon of innovation and creativity. It embodies the spirit of legendary sports cars while introducing new levels of performance and design. The future of supercars looks bright, and the Sanca GT could be at the forefront of this exciting era. This car not only pays homage to its inspirations but also paves the way for future innovations in the supercar world, promising an exhilarating ride for those fortunate enough to experience it.

The Sanca GT boasts 819 Nm of torque, delivering power to the rear wheels through a 6-speed Xtrac gearbox, enhanced further by carbon-ceramic brakes. (Picture from: Coroflot)

The world of supercars is continually advancing, and with each new model, enthusiasts are treated to cutting-edge technology and unparalleled performance. The Sanca GT is a testament to the dedication and passion of its creators. Should it ever reach production, it will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the automotive landscape, captivating the hearts of car lovers worldwide. The journey of the Sanca GT is a thrilling reminder of what is possible when visionaries push the boundaries of automotive design and engineering. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ARIFCONCEPT | COROFLOT | SUPERSPORTCARS | MOTORADICTOS | TEAMSPEED | ALLCARINDEX ]

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