McLaren W1: The Ultimate Speed Revolution

The Faster - The world of hypercars has always been filled with awe-inspiring innovations, and the upcoming McLaren W1 is poised to make a significant mark. The very name W1 might evoke memories of the Australian-made HSV GTSR W1, known for its dominance in power and performance, but this new creation from McLaren stands in a league of its own. Building upon the legacy of iconic models like the McLaren P1 and the legendary F1, this latest addition promises a thrilling chapter in automotive history.

The McLaren W1 embodies cutting-edge technology and racing heritage, with its name signifying the brand's championship-winning mindset in Formula One, celebrating the precision and performance that have defined McLaren for decades. (Picture from: KabarMegapolitan)

At the heart of the McLaren W1 is a focus on cutting-edge technology and racing heritage. While the W1 name might suggest a connection to the Australian powerhouse, it is not a homage to the HSV GTSR W1. Instead, McLaren’s choice of the name signifies their championship-winning mindset in Formula One, celebrating the precision and performance that have defined the brand for decades. The McLaren W1 represents a blend of speed, innovation, and world-class engineering, positioning it as the next hypercar to watch.

While teaser details of the McLaren W1 remain limited, the vehicle is expected to surpass its predecessors in every way. (Picture from: TheSupercarBlog)

Though specific details of the McLaren W1 remain limited, the vehicle is expected to surpass its predecessors in every way. Under the hood, this hypercar is rumored to feature a brand-new V8 engine, paired with a highly advanced hybrid system. This combination is projected to produce around 1,200 horsepower—significantly more than the 735kW output of the P1 and leagues ahead of the 474kW GTSR W1. The inclusion of a hybrid system, said to be 70% lighter than McLaren’s current offering, shows the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of both performance and efficiency. 

Although the W1 name might suggest a connection to the Australian powerhouse, it is not a homage to the HSV GTSR W1, but rather reflects McLaren’s championship-winning mindset in Formula One. (Picture from: HSV)

The McLaren W1 is set to follow the plug-in hybrid path, much like its sibling, the V6-powered Artura. However, this model will draw from the expertise of McLaren’s Formula One division, utilizing battery technology derived from their F1 cars. The combination of a powerful engine and lightweight hybrid system could redefine expectations for what a hypercar can achieve. Additionally, only 400 units of the McLaren W1 are expected to be produced, making it a highly exclusive vehicle—though still more accessible than the extremely limited run of the HSV GTSR W1. 

One of the most exciting aspects of the McLaren W1 is its pricing and availability. With reports suggesting a starting price of approximately $2 million, this hypercar is clearly targeting a very exclusive market. However, McLaren dealers have indicated that the 25 fortunate owners of the track-only Solus GT will have the first opportunity to secure a W1. Such limited production and high price point ensure that the McLaren W1 will become a coveted gem among automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The McLaren W1, an upcoming creation from McLaren, builds upon the legacy of iconic models like the P1 and legendary F1, standing in a league of its own and promising a thrilling chapter in automotive history. (Picture from: CarsUK.net)

Beyond its remarkable powertrain, the design of the McLaren W1 is set to be a showstopper. Early glimpses from those who have seen the car reveal a number of striking features. One of the most notable changes is the switch from McLaren’s signature butterfly doors to a top-hinged gull-wing design, reminiscent of the classic DeLorean DMC-12 and Mercedes-Benz 300SL. This bold shift in design direction is just one example of how McLaren is blending its own heritage with a nod to automotive icons of the past.

 

Other standout design elements include a hydraulically activated rear wing, titanium twin exhaust outlets mounted centrally, and aerodynamic 'snorkels' behind the side windows. The W1 also boasts an active front splitter, unique 'socket-eye' headlights, and floating wheel arches. Side skirts that pay homage to Formula One aero elements and a full-width carbon diffuser further enhance the car’s performance and aesthetics. It’s clear that every inch of this car has been meticulously crafted with both form and function in mind.

The McLaren W1 will officially be unveiled on October 6, 2024, a significant date that coincides with the 50th anniversary of McLaren’s first Formula One World Constructors' Championship. This momentous occasion will not only mark the reveal of a groundbreaking hypercar but also celebrate McLaren’s enduring legacy in motorsports, a legacy defined by visionaries like Emerson Fittipaldi, who brought home the World Drivers' Championship in 1974.

With so much anticipation surrounding the McLaren W1, it’s clear that this hypercar is set to elevate the brand’s reputation even further. Whether you’re a fan of McLaren’s rich Formula One history or simply an admirer of high-performance vehicles, the W1 is a model that promises to capture imaginations and leave a lasting impact on the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MCLAREN | ROBBREPORT | CARSCOOPS | CARSUK.NET | THESUPERCARBLOG ]

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The Asymmetrical Wonder: Coggiola Janus of the 1970s

RARE ONES - The 1970s saw a plethora of unique concept vehicles, each embodying the era's spirit of innovation and daring design. One such gem, often overlooked by the public, is the Coggiola Janus Prototype. This vehicle stands out with its "two-faced" wedge design, showcasing asymmetrical sections that start from the midpoint of the body, making it a visual spectacle. Despite its potential for production, the Janus remains a rare find, its highly-refined surface treatment emblematic of many Coggiola creations.

The Coggiola Janus Prototype stands out with its "two-faced" wedge design, showcasing asymmetrical sections that start from the midpoint of the body, making it a visual spectacle. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Sergio Coggiola, born in 1928 and passing away in 1989, was one of renowned Italian designers who left an indelible mark on the automotive industry. His career began at Carrozzeria Ghia in Turin, where he served for 15 years, eventually leading Ghia's prototype shop until 1952. In 1966, Coggiola established his own company, Carrozzeria Coggiola, in Orbassano, a commune near Turin. This move allowed him to further explore his creative visions and bring them to life.

The Coggiola Janus (in clay model) was sliced down the middle, incorporating mirrors to present two distinct design proposals on either side. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

During the 1980s, Coggiola's expertise became highly sought after by various car manufacturers. He freelanced, often bringing third-party designs to fruition. Notable examples include the Citroën Karin, designed by Trevor Fiore, and the Lamborghini Portofino. He also worked on prototypes of the Renault Mégane. Coggiola's ability to produce individual, one-off vehicles made him a favorite among elite clients, including the Sultan of Brunei. For the HH. Sultan, Coggiola crafted Bentley B2 and B3 coupés and convertibles, based on designs by Pininfarina, creating a total of 17 units between 1994 and 1996.

The Coggiola Janus Prototype was meticulously crafted with aerodynamics in mind, ensuring that the vehicle was as functional as it was eye-catching. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

The Coggiola Janus prototype is particularly fascinating due to its unique design approach. The clay model was sliced down the middle, incorporating mirrors to present two distinct design proposals on either side. This allowed for a direct comparison of different stylistic elements. The right side of the car featured a unique window theme but lacked a door handle and fuel tank lid, elements present on the opposite side. This asymmetry created a striking visual effect, emphasizing the innovative spirit behind the Janus.

The right side of the Coggiola Janus (in clay model) featured a unique window theme but lacked a door handle and fuel tank lid, elements present on the opposite side. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

The sporty theme of the Janus was not merely for show. The design was meticulously crafted with aerodynamics in mind, ensuring that the vehicle was as functional as it was eye-catching. The prototype served as a preliminary study of shapes, with the centerline dividing two entirely different stylistic areas while maintaining the same overall dimensions. The name Janus, derived from the Latin god with two faces, aptly captures the dual nature of this extraordinary vehicle.

The Coggiola Janus Prototype remains a testament to Sergio Coggiola's ingenuity and the bold creativity of 1970s automotive design. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

The Coggiola Janus prototype remains a testament to Sergio Coggiola's ingenuity and the bold creativity of 1970s automotive design. Its asymmetrical design and innovative approach continue to inspire and intrigue car enthusiasts and designers alike. The Janus is a symbol of an era where boundaries were pushed, and new possibilities were explored, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of automotive design. We apologize for the lack of a proper video about the Coggiola Janus. Instead, please enjoy this video about the Farago CF 428 by Carrozzeria Coggiola.

As we reflect on the unique and daring designs of the past, the Coggiola Janus stands out as a remarkable example of innovation and artistry. Its legacy reminds us of the importance of creativity and the impact it can have on shaping the future of design. This prototype is not just a car; it's a piece of history, encapsulating the spirit of an era defined by bold ideas and groundbreaking achievements. ***  [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | COGGIOLA | CARSTYLING.RU | WIKIPEDIA | ARCHIOPROTOTIPI.IT | ALLCARINDEX | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | COACHBUILD ]

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Ferrari 612 Scaglietti: The Last Manual Transmission Icon

Final Edition - Ferrari has a storied legacy in the automotive world, often synonymous with speed, luxury, and exclusivity. One of the highlights in Ferrari’s illustrious history is the 612 Scaglietti, which stands out not only for its performance but also for being the last Ferrari model to feature a manual transmission. 

The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, named after the renowned coachbuilder Sergio Scaglietti, is a 2+2 executive grand tourer coupé introduced in 2004. (Picture from: PistinHeads)

In 2012, Ferrari ceased production of manual transmission models, marking the end of an era with the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, named after the famous coachbuilder Sergio Scaglietti, is a 2+2 executive grand tourer coupé that was introduced in 2004.

The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti stands out not only for its performance but also for being the last Ferrari model to feature a manual transmission. (Picture from: PistinHeads)

The car's design and performance were ahead of its time, featuring an automatic transmission styled like an F1 car with paddle shifters. Throughout its production, Ferrari manufactured 3,025 units of the 612 Scaglietti, but only 199 of these came with the highly coveted manual transmission option. Of these, just 60 units made it to the United States, making them exceptionally rare.

The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti's design and performance were ahead of their time, featuring an automatic transmission styled like an F1 car with paddle shifters. (Picture from: OtomotifOkeZone)

In addition to its production model, the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti holds a special place in automotive history due to its connection with the one-off special Ferrari GG50. Created by Italdesign to commemorate Giorgetto Giugiaro's 50 years in the automotive design industry, the GG50 was based on the 612 Scaglietti and premiered at the 2005 Tokyo Auto Show. This unique model highlights the versatility and enduring appeal of the 612 Scaglietti's design.

This rarity adds to the allure of the 612 Scaglietti with a manual transmission. The limited production run means that each unit is a collector’s dream, often fetching high prices in the resale market. At one point, a Ferrari 612 Scaglietti with a manual transmission was sold for as low as $92,000, a testament to its value and desirability among enthusiasts.

The 6-speed manual transmission further enhances the driving dynamics, offering a connection between the driver and the car that automatic transmissions simply cannot replicate. (Picture from: OtomotifOkeZone)

Under the hood, the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti boasts a formidable V12 engine with a displacement of 5,748 cc. This powerhouse engine delivers an impressive 533 horsepower and 588 Nm of torque, ensuring a thrilling driving experience. The car's performance figures are equally remarkable, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 4 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h. The 6-speed manual transmission further enhances the driving dynamics, offering a connection between the driver and the car that automatic transmissions simply cannot replicate.

The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti boasts a formidable V12 engine with a displacement of 5,748 cc, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 4 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h. (Picture from: PistinHeads)

Over the years, the automotive industry has seen a significant shift towards automatic transmissions, driven by consumer preferences for convenience and advancements in technology. Ferrari, adapting to this trend, gradually phased out manual transmissions from its lineup. As a result, the 612 Scaglietti with a manual transmission has become a sought-after collector’s item, with its rarity and historical significance driving up its market value.

The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti with a manual transmission has become a sought-after collector’s item, with its rarity and historical significance driving up its market value. (Picture from: PistinHeads)

Ferrari’s decision to end the production of manual transmissions marked a significant shift in the automotive landscape. However, the legacy of the 612 Scaglietti lives on, cherished by collectors and automotive aficionados alike. Its blend of power, elegance, and exclusivity ensures that it remains a standout model in Ferrari’s prestigious lineup.

In a world where technology and automation are becoming the norm, the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti serves as a reminder of the pure, unadulterated driving pleasure that comes from a manual transmission. It represents a bygone era where driving was as much about skill and engagement as it was about speed and performance. For those fortunate enough to own one, the 612 Scaglietti is not just a car; it’s a piece of Ferrari's rich heritage and a testament to the enduring appeal of manual driving in an increasingly automated world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | BRINGATRAILER | PISTONHEADS | WIKIPEDIA ]

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Reviving the 1960s Spirit: Inside the Exclusive Dowsetts Comet

Art of Speed - The allure of classic cars is undeniable, capturing the hearts of many with their timeless elegance and unique design. These vehicles are more than just modes of transportation; they are rolling pieces of art, each with a story and a soul that reflects a bygone era. The scarcity of these automobiles only adds to their mystique, making them highly coveted by enthusiasts who are often willing to spend large sums to own a piece of automotive history. Some are so passionate about these classic designs that they go a step further, creating limited-edition reproductions that pay homage to the original masterpieces.

The Dowsetts Comet's design is a tribute to the sports cars and racers of the 1950s and 1960s. (Picture from: Carscoops)

The 1960s are often regarded as the golden age of automotive design. This decade gave birth to some of the most iconic vehicles ever made, such as the Ferrari 250 GTO, the Jaguar E-Type, and the Lamborghini Miura, among others. These cars set the standard for beauty and performance, leaving a lasting impact on the automotive world. Many enthusiasts believe that the design language and driving experience of this era represent the pinnacle of automotive engineering.

The Dowsetts Comet, created by Ant Anstead’s company, embodies the spirit of classic sports cars while delivering modern performance.. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Ant Anstead, a well-known engineer and television personality, shares this belief. His passion for classic cars led him to establish the Dowsetts Classic Car Company. Anstead’s company aimed to capture the essence of 1960s automotive design, combining it with modern technology to create something truly special. This vision culminated in the creation of the Dowsetts Comet, a car that embodies the spirit of classic sports cars while offering the performance of a modern machine.

The Dowsetts Comet's bodywork is made from Kevlar-reinforced fiberglass, a material chosen for its strength and lightness. (Picture from: Carscoops)

The Dowsetts Comet is a rare gem in the automotive world, with only a handful of units ever produced. These cars are built in a small factory in the English countryside, where each vehicle is meticulously crafted by hand. Despite their English origins, the Comets are powered by American V8 engines, ensuring that they deliver exhilarating performance. The combination of classic design and modern power makes the Comet a unique and desirable vehicle.

The Dowsetts Comet's cabin fuses classic charm with modern touches, featuring red quilted leather reminiscent of luxurious 1960s sports cars. (Picture from: Carscoops)

The Comet's design is a tribute to the sports cars and racers of the 1950s and 1960s. Its body is made from Kevlar-reinforced fiberglass, a material chosen for its strength and lightness. The design is both elegant and aggressive, with lines that harken back to the golden age of motorsports. The car is finished in Porsche Crayon Grey, a color that enhances its vintage appeal.

The Dowsetts Comet powered by  a 6.2-liter GM LS3 V8 engine, paired with a Tremec 5-speed transmission. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Underneath its striking exterior, the Comet is built on a steel spaceframe chassis, providing a solid foundation for the car's performance. Independent suspension and disc brakes at each corner ensure that the Comet handles as well as it looks. The car rides on bespoke wheels designed specifically for the Dowsetts Comet, further emphasizing its exclusivity.

 

The heart of the Comet is a 6.2-liter GM LS3 V8 engine, paired with a Tremec 5-speed transmission. This powertrain is a nod to the muscle cars of the past, offering raw, unfiltered power. With 430 horsepower on tap, the Comet can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, making it as fast as many modern sports cars.

Underneath its striking exterior, the Dowsetts Comet is built on a steel spaceframe chassis, providing a solid foundation for the car's performance. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Inside, the Comet's cabin is a blend of classic and modern elements. The interior is upholstered in red quilted leather, reminiscent of the luxurious sports cars of the 1960s. The dashboard features white-faced dials, a Moto-Lita steering wheel, and a turned aluminum gear stick, all of which contribute to the car's vintage charm. However, the Comet is not purely a throwback; it includes modern conveniences such as air conditioning, satellite navigation, and a reversing camera, making it a practical choice for long drives.

The Dowsetts Comet is more than just a car; it’s a tribute to a golden era of automotive design. (Picture from: Carscoops)

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Dowsetts Comet is its exclusivity. The first chassis, known as #001, caught the attention of a particular car enthusiast who then commissioned the second chassis, #002. This individual specified that the car be tailored for grand touring, with a focus on comfort and style. Unfortunately, after only 2,500 miles, the owner suffered a back injury that prevented him from enjoying the car. This led to the sale of the vehicle at the NEC Classic Motor Show Sale in 2021, where it fetched a price of £65,250.

The Dowsetts Comet is more than just a car; it’s a tribute to a golden era of automotive design. It embodies the passion and dedication of those who strive to preserve the beauty and spirit of classic sports cars while seamlessly integrating modern engineering. Each Comet is a unique creation, a rare work of art that captures the essence of the 1960s, paired with the performance and reliability of a contemporary vehicle. For those fortunate enough to own one, the Comet is not just a car but a symbol of an era that continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Additionally, Ant Anstead’s legacy extends to the creation of the Radford Type 62-2 racing car. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DOWSETTSCARS | CARSCOOPS | SILODROME | ICONICAUCTIONEERS | CARANDCLASSIC | CARSONLINE.BONHAM ]

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1938 Phantom Corsair: A Visionary Car Ahead of Its Time

Classic Masterpiece - When it comes to classic cars with unique and forward-thinking designs, the Phantom Corsair stands out as a fascinating topic. This prototype automobile, built in 1938, exemplifies innovation and style that were well ahead of its time. Designed by Rust Heinz, of the famous H. J. Heinz family, in collaboration with Maurice Schwartz from the Bohman & Schwartz coachbuilding company in Pasadena, California, the Phantom Corsair remains an icon of automotive history.

The 1938 Phantom Corsair was designed by Rust Heinz and Maurice Schwartz, and it was built in 1938 by the Bohman & Schwartz coachbuilding company. (Picture from: AmazingCars)

The Corsair's design is a masterpiece of art deco styling, featuring a sleek and aggressive body that commands attention. Built on a Cord 810 chassis, its six-passenger, two-door sedan configuration was quite spacious, seating four in the front row and one to the left of the driver. This remarkable width and layout were designed to provide a unique and luxurious travel experience.

Front end of the Phantom Corsair. (Picture from: Motorcities.org)

Powering the Phantom Corsair was a Lycoming V8 engine with a displacement of 289 cubic inches, capable of producing 190 horsepower. This powerful engine allowed the Corsair to reach speeds of up to 115 mph, a remarkable feat for its time. To ensure the driver's control over this speed, the car was equipped with drum brakes on all four corners.

Designer Rust Heinz behind the sheel of the Phantom Corsair. (Picture from: Motorcities.org)

Rust Heinz had grand plans for the Phantom Corsair. With a production cost of approximately $24,000 in 1938 (equivalent to about $418,000 in 2019), Heinz intended to produce the car in limited quantities, with an estimated selling price of $12,500. Unfortunately, his untimely death in a car accident in July 1939 halted these plans, leaving the prototype as the only one ever built.

Despite never entering production, the Phantom Corsair is celebrated for its advanced features and futuristic design elements, such as faired-in fenders and a low profile. These characteristics have earned it a place in automotive history as a vehicle that was truly ahead of its time. Today, the Phantom Corsair resides in the National Automobile Museum, also known as The Harrah Collection, in Reno, Nevada, where it continues to captivate car enthusiasts and historians alike. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VINTAGE.ES | MOTORCITIES | AMAZINGCARS | COMPLEX ]

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Chrysler and Mitsubishi: The Short Story of the Dodge Stealth

Iconic RIDES - No one could have anticipated the storm that the Dodge Stealth would stir in the automotive world. Much like the unexpected collaborations of the 1980s, such as Dodge and Shelby, the 1990s saw another unique partnership. This time, it was Dodge and Mitsubishi, and while their collaboration only produced a single model, it became a remarkable car that was truly ahead of its time.

The 1991 Dodge Stealth adalah salah satu mobil yang merupakan hasil a strategic investment of Chryler on Mitsubishi Motors back in 1970s. (Picture from: DodgeGarage)

In the early 1970s, Chrysler made a strategic investment by acquiring a 15% stake in Mitsubishi Motors. This partnership allowed Chrysler to import Mitsubishi vehicles to the U.S. and rebrand them under the Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth names. Though these cars weren’t initially groundbreaking, they laid the foundation for more exciting models to emerge. By the mid-1980s, Mitsubishi was ready to make its own mark in America, opening their own dealerships and forming a production partnership with Chrysler called Diamond Star Motors in 1988. A new plant in Illinois helped birth some innovative cars of the ‘90s, including the Dodge Stealth, a car that left an impression on everyone who experienced its power and design.

The 1991 Dodge Stealth featured with a remarkable four-wheel steering system, which allowed the rear wheels to turn slightly, improving cornering stability and contro. (Picture from: DodgeGarage)

When the Dodge Stealth first hit the road, it came with a variety of engine options that catered to different preferences. The base model featured a front-wheel-drive setup with a 3.0L V6 engine, producing a modest 164 horsepower. While this version was not groundbreaking, it still provided a decent driving experience. The next level up, the ES model, offered a more refined 3.0L V6 engine with dual overhead cams, bumping up the power to 222 horsepower. But the true star of the Stealth lineup was the R/T Twin Turbo, which took performance to a whole new level.

The 1991 Dodge Stealth also adorned with an all-leather interior. (Picture from: DodgeGarage)

The Stealth R/T Twin Turbo packed a punch with its 3.0L V6 engine, but the addition of twin turbos brought the power up to an impressive 320 horsepower. For a car from the 1990s, these numbers were exceptional, especially when compared to other vehicles of its era. The car’s aerodynamic design, boasting a 0.33 drag coefficient, contributed to its impressive performance. To put that into perspective, the legendary Lamborghini Murciélago from 2001 had the same drag coefficient. With its all-wheel-drive system, the Stealth could launch off the line with precision and control, making it one of the few AWD sports cars of the time.

The 1991 Dodge Stealth standard version powered by a front-mounted 3.0L V6 engine, producing a modest 164 horsepower. (Picture from: DodgeGarage)

In addition to its powerful engine and AWD system, the Stealth also featured a six-speed manual transmission—an uncommon offering in cars of this price range during the 1990s. The electronic-controlled suspension added another layer of sophistication, allowing drivers to experience advanced handling that was rarely found in other vehicles of that era. Although the system wasn't as advanced as modern-day technology, it was still a standout feature in the early '90s.

The 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin-Turbo packed a punch with its 3.0L V6 engine, but the addition of twin turbos brought the power up to an impressive 320 horsepower. (Picture from: DodgeGarage)

Another innovative feature of the Stealth was its four-wheel steering system, which allowed the rear wheels to turn slightly, improving cornering stability and control. This was a feature that few cars in North America offered at the time, and even today, it remains a rarity. While the four-wheel steering may not have been the most noticeable in day-to-day driving, it contributed to the car's overall handling prowess.

The 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin-Turbo was not only fast but also stylish, boasting a wide, sleek design that commanded attention on the road, making it one of the most exciting cars of the '90s. (Picture from: DodgeGarage)

The combination of twin turbos, AWD, a six-speed manual transmission, and advanced suspension made the Dodge Stealth a performance machine that was difficult to rival in its era. Add to that an all-leather interior, a removable targa top, and 18-inch wheels, and the Stealth was not only fast but also stylish. Its wide, sleek design gave it a commanding presence on the road, making it one of the most exciting cars of the '90s.

The 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin-Turbo PPG Pace Car featured custom bumpers, body panels, and safety gear, showcasing a striking version that highlighted the car's unique attributes. (Picture from: MoparInsiders)

Unfortunately, despite all of its impressive features, the Dodge Stealth never fully reached the heights it deserved. Production ended in 1996, while its counterpart, the Mitsubishi 3000GT, continued for a few more years. Nevertheless, the Stealth left a lasting legacy as a car that was ahead of its time, with a perfect balance of power, technology, and design that made it stand out from the crowd.

The 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin-Turbo Indy Pace Car. (Picture from: MoparInsiders)

One notable chapter in the Stealth's history was its selection as the pace car for the 1991 Indianapolis 500. However, controversy quickly arose when race fans and union leaders objected to the idea of a "foreign" car pacing the iconic American race. Even though the Stealth was branded as a Dodge, its Mitsubishi origins were enough to spark protests. As a result, Chrysler made a last-minute decision to replace the Stealth with a pre-production Dodge Viper for the event, ensuring that an American-made car would lead the pack.

The 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin-Turbo Indy Pace Car. (Picture from: MoparInsiders)

Though the Stealth was ultimately sidelined, a special PPG Edition was created, showcasing its potential as a pace car. With custom bumpers, body panels, and safety gear, the Stealth PPG was a striking version that highlighted the car's unique attributes. While the Stealth may have lost its moment in the Indy 500 spotlight, its story remains a fascinating part of automotive history.

The Dodge Stealth’s journey may have been brief, but its impact on the world of performance cars continues to resonate. Its advanced technology, striking design, and unforgettable presence on the road make it a true gem of the 1990s. ***  [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DODGEGARAGE | MOPARINSIDERS | ]

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