Rotary BEAST - The Mazda RX-7 FD3S, a renowned sports car, was initially launched with a sleek aerodynamic design and a 2-door coupe body style. This vehicle quickly became a canvas for rotary engine tuning specialists, particularly RE Amemiya. The RX-7 served as the foundation for countless modifications and innovations, showcasing the endless creativity of this legendary tuning company. Over the years, RE Amemiya has participated in numerous modification contests and racing events, always pushing the boundaries of what the RX-7 could become.
The Genki 7 was one of the most notable RE Amemiya's car creations that made its debut at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon. (Picture from: RE Amemiya)
Crazy Concept - The desire to create something truly extraordinary often stems from unconventional thinking. In the world of high-performance cars, innovation is driven by ideas that might seem wild or impossible to the average person. But for those with a passion for pushing the boundaries of engineering and design, these "crazy" concepts can lead to remarkable creations. Such is the case with the Bridan brothers, Nikita and Iliya, who have taken a bold step in the world of hypercars with their company, Oilstainlab.
The Oilstainlab HF-11 will be a lightweight, high-horsepower, manual-transmission sports car with a classic racer design. . (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
The story of Nikita and Iliya Bridan, twin brothers from Canada, is a testament to how creativity and ambition can merge into a dream project. Both brothers have impressive backgrounds in the automotive industry, having worked with renowned companies like Acura, Cadillac, Genesis, Honda, and Toyota. They’ve built a solid reputation as designers with a flair for innovation, which laid the foundation for their next big venture. In 2019, they made a decisive move and launched Oilstainlab, with the ambitious goal of creating supercars that stand out in a market saturated with competitors claiming to be disruptors.
Although the automaker love the idea of an aluminum-bodied car, the Oilstainlab HF-11 will have a carbon tub and composite bodywork. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Oilstainlab made waves with their first model, the Half-11, which was showcased at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024. The car’s design drew attention due to its unique aesthetic, described as a fusion of a classic Can-Am race car and a childhood fantasy. This caught the eyes of many, sparking inquiries from potential buyers. Encouraged by this response, the Bridan brothers decided to take things to the next level by developing a production car—the Oilstainlab HF-11.
Oilstainlab's first model, the Half-11, showcased at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, captivated attention with its unique design, blending a classic Can-Am race car with elements of a childhood fantasy. (Picture from: CarPorn)
The HF-11 represents the brothers' leap into the world of production hypercars, although calling it a "production car" in the traditional sense is a stretch. Their vision is centered on crafting something rare and exclusive, with only 25 units planned for production. This car isn’t just about performance; it’s about creating an unforgettable experience for its owners. At a hefty price of $2,350,000, the HF-11 is tailored for those who seek something beyond the typical hypercar offerings. And for those interested only in the internal combustion version, there’s an opportunity to save $500,000.
Planned as a very limited edition, only 25 Oilstainlab HF-11 cars will be built. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
At the core of the HF-11 is its innovative powertrain setup, offering both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, catering to enthusiasts of both worlds. The 4.5-liter flat-six engine, capable of 650 horsepower and revving up to 12,000 rpm, is paired with a manual transmission for those who crave the traditional driving experience.
The first running Oilstainlab HF-11 prototype is set to debut in the spring of 2025. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
But for those leaning towards the future, the HF-11 also comes with an 850-horsepower electric motor and battery pack, which can rev to 13,000 rpm. What makes this even more extraordinary is the fact that the powertrains are interchangeable, allowing the driver to switch between the two setups depending on their mood or driving preference. This is more than just a powertrain swap; it’s an entire subframe swap, inspired by Audi’s rear subframe swaps at Le Mans in 2000.
In addition to luxury and comfort, the Oilstainlab HF-11 cabin offers superior visibility and easier ingress and egress compared to its competitors. (Picture from: Oilstainlab)
The HF-11’s design is as bold as its mechanical setup. With a carbon-fiber tub built by the same factory responsible for the Ford GT and body panels made of lightweight composite materials, the car is expected to weigh around 2,000 pounds. Nikita Bridan dreams of a handmade aluminum body, although he admits the practicality of finding someone to craft 25 sets might be a challenge. The HF-11 is designed to be striking, with a front end reminiscent of a smoothed-down Porsche 911 and a rear that evokes the aggressive stance of a Jaguar F-Type.
Good news for tall collectors: The Oilstainlab HF-11 was designed to fit drivers up to 6'3" with a helmet. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
While the HF-11’s design and powertrain are groundbreaking, the brothers’ approach to customer involvement is just as unconventional. Instead of simply selling cars, Oilstainlab invites a select group of customers—dubbed "Maniacs"—to participate in the development process. These individuals, many of whom already own competitive hypercars, will have a hand in fine-tuning the final product. Nikita and Iliya are looking to create not just a car, but a community of like-minded enthusiasts who share their passion for pushing automotive boundaries.
The designers say the Oilstainlab HF-11 is meant to be an engaging car to drive, not just a high-tech or quick one. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Despite the audacious nature of the HF-11, the Bridan brothers maintain that their goal is not to become a large-scale manufacturer. They are not interested in competing with the major players in the hypercar market. Instead, their focus is on preserving a specific driving experience—one that is lightweight, engaging, and increasingly rare in a world where regulations and restrictions dominate the automotive landscape. Their mission is simple: to create the cars that no one else is making, for the enthusiasts who crave something different.
An ambitious goal of the HF-11 is to offer a swappable rear subframe with both ICE and EV powerplants. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
As the HF-11 moves closer to its projected prototype release in 2025, the automotive world watches with anticipation. The Bridan brothers are proving that there’s still room for wild ideas and bold innovations in a market that often plays it safe. Their commitment to blending the best of both worlds—traditional internal combustion and cutting-edge electric propulsion—offers a glimpse into the future of hypercars, where versatility and performance coexist in harmony.
In the end, Oilstainlab’s HF-11 is more than just a car; it’s a statement. A statement that innovation thrives where creativity meets passion, and that even in a world dominated by regulations and mainstream designs, there’s still space for the dreamers and the maniacs who dare to build something truly unique. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | OILSTAINLAB | TOPGEAR | CARANDDRIVER | CARSCOOPS | GOODWOOD | CARPORN ]
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Unique ONES - In the realm of automotive achievements, exceptional accomplishments often receive a unique form of recognition. This is especially true in the world of motorsports, where the triumphs of racers and their machines are immortalized through special editions. One such instance is the Schuppan 962CR, one of six cars born out of a remarkable victory and a passion for excellence.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: KatanaLtd)
Australian racing legend Vern Schuppan, in tribute to his monumental win at the 1983 24 Hours of Le Mans, embarked on an ambitious project to create a street-legal version of the iconic Porsche 962 racer. This endeavor resulted in the creation of the Schuppan 962CR, a car that not only paid homage to his success but also stood as a testament to innovation and craftsmanship in the automotive industry.
The Schuppan 962CR was crafted to pay homage to Vern Schuppan's monumental win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans behind the wheel of a Porsche 956 and its successor 962. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Vern Schuppan’s journey to create the 962CR was fueled by his desire to commemorate his 1983 Le Mans victory, where he piloted a Porsche 956 to triumph. The Porsche 956, and its successor, the 962, became legendary in the world of endurance racing, dominating the tracks and securing over 130 victories.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: StuttCars)
These cars were revered for their engineering brilliance and competitive prowess, making them the perfect blueprint for Schuppan’s ambitious project. With backing from Japanese investors, Schuppan set out to transform the race-bred 962 into a machine that could be driven on public roads, while retaining the spirit and performance of its racing counterpart.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The Schuppan 962CR was produced between 1992 and 1994, during which time Schuppan collaborated closely with Porsche to bring his vision to life. The car was built around a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, a cutting-edge design at the time. Reynard Motorsport, a prominent name in motorsport engineering, was tasked with constructing the carbon monocoques, while Schuppan himself oversaw the bodywork.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: BingoWorldSports)
The design of the 962CR borrowed heavily from the original 962 race car, ensuring that the lineage of this iconic machine was preserved in every detail. Schuppan’s meticulous approach to the project was evident in every aspect of the car’s construction, from the lightweight chassis to the powerful engine that lay at its heart.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The engine that powered the 962CR was a water-cooled, 3.3-liter Type-935 Flat-6, equipped with twin KKK turbochargers. This engine, capable of producing 600 horsepower, was the only Porsche-sourced component in the car. It was a slightly modified version of the engine used in the 962C that competed in the North American IMSA GT Championship.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The power from this engine was transmitted to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, allowing the car to achieve a top speed of 230 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. The use of titanium fasteners throughout the car further highlighted the attention to detail and commitment to performance that defined the 962CR.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The construction of the 962CR was a complex and costly endeavor. Schuppan initially planned to build 25 units, with the cars being assembled by Modena Cars in High Wycombe, England. However, due to financial difficulties, only six cars were ultimately produced. Each car was built to comply with either Japanese or German safety regulations, ensuring that they could be legally driven on the roads in those countries. Despite the challenges faced during production, the Schuppan 962CR was a marvel of engineering, combining the raw power and performance of a race car with the sophistication required for a road-legal vehicle.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The price of the 962CR reflected its exclusivity and the level of craftsmanship involved in its creation. Originally priced at ¥195 million, equivalent to around $1.5 million USD in 1994, the car was one of the most expensive vehicles ever produced at the time. Unfortunately, the high cost of production and financial setbacks led to the downfall of Schuppan’s company.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
After shipping two cars to Japan, payment issues forced Schuppan to declare bankruptcy, marking the end of the 962CR’s production run. Despite this, the car has become a prized possession among collectors, with its value only increasing over the years. Today, the Schuppan 962CR is considered a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item, with prices starting at $1.9 million USD.
The legacy of the Schuppan 962CR is one of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. Although only six cars were built, and four remain today due to one being destroyed in a fire, the 962CR stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when a racing legend channels his experience and knowledge into creating something truly extraordinary.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Vern Schuppan’s vision to create a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 not only honored his own achievements on the track but also left a lasting impact on the world of high-performance sports cars. The 962CR remains a testament to the ingenuity and determination of those who dare to dream big, and its place in automotive history is forever secured.
The story of the Schuppan 962CR is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, greatness can be achieved. The car serves as a bridge between the thrilling world of motorsport and the precision engineering required to create road-legal vehicles, offering a glimpse into what is possible when passion and expertise come together. Though the 962CR may have been Vern Schuppan’s only car creation, its legacy continues to inspire and captivate automotive enthusiasts around the world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KATANA LTD. | HYPEBEAST | AUTOEVOLUTION | STUTTCARS | BINGOSPORTSWORLD | SUPERCARS.NET | WIKIPEDIA ]
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RARE ONES - In motorsports, few things are as thrilling as witnessing a high-performance machine push the limits of speed and engineering. Recently, McLaren introduced the McLaren W1, a car that builds on the legacy of iconic models like the P1 and the legendary F1, carving its own path and promising an exciting new chapter in automotive history.
The 1997 McLaren F1 GTR Longtail driving around in London back in 2022. (Picture from: id.Motor1)
For enthusiasts, the McLaren F1 is more than just a car; it represents a pinnacle of automotive achievement. Since its introduction in 1992, the McLaren F1 has captivated the imaginations of gearheads everywhere, not only for its record-breaking speeds but also for the groundbreaking design and engineering that make it a legend. As technology continues to evolve, especially with electric vehicles and forced induction systems becoming the norm, the legacy of naturally aspirated cars like the McLaren F1 grows even more significant.
Limited
to only 106 units ever produced during 1992 to 1998, including various
special editions, the McLaren F1 became a symbol of exclusivity and
automotive engineering prowess. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The McLaren F1, known for being the fastest production car powered solely by a naturally aspirated engine, remains an icon of speed. The car's unique engineering, spearheaded by the legendary designer Gordon Murray and supported by BMW's engine expert Paul Rosche, is a testament to what can be achieved when visionaries come together. The F1’s performance continues to stand the test of time, even in the face of modern automotive advancements. With new models likethe GMA T.50 being inspired by the F1’s engineering, the McLaren F1’s influence on the automotive world remains undeniable, cementing its place in history.
The McLaren F1 GTR, shown here as a 1995 model, was originally designed for racing under the international 'GT1' regulations, making it eligible for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. (Picture from: TopCarRating)
However, the car featured here is no ordinary McLaren F1; it’s the rarer F1 GTR Longtail. Initially created for racing purposes, the F1 GTR was produced in extremely limited numbers, with only 28 units ever made. The even more exclusive Longtail variantsaw just 10 built, each powered by a naturally aspirated BMW S70/2 V12 engine, making this speed machine truly exceptional.
The 1995 24 Hours of LeMans winning McLaren F1 GTR (chassis #01R) raced by Lanzante Motorsport (Kokusai Kaihatsu Racing). (Picture from: Wikipedia)
What sets this particular model apart is that it was modified for road use by Lanzante, a British workshop known for their meticulous craftsmanship. The idea of transforming a race car into a street-legal vehicle might seem controversial to purists, but it adds a unique dimension to the F1 GTR Longtail’s legacy. Some might argue that affixing a license plate to such a rare machine detracts from its pure racing heritage, yet it undeniably makes the car even more fascinating.
Interior view of the 1995 24 Hours of LeMans winning McLaren F1 GTR (chassis #01R). (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Spotting a supercar like the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail cruising the streets is a rare sight, even in a city like London, where luxury cars are a common feature. In 2022, this remarkable vehicle was spotted navigating the busy streets of the British capital. The juxtaposition of this high-powered machine against the urban backdrop is a sight to behold. Its presence alone is enough to turn heads, not just because of its rarity but also because it’s a car that many thought they’d only ever see on a racetrack. The spectacle of seeing it on city streets brings a sense of awe, highlighting just how far automotive design has come.
The 1996 McLaren F1 GTR while on action at Brands Hatch circuit. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The McLaren F1 GTR Longtail isn’t just about aesthetics or speed; it's also about the raw experience of driving. The three-seater setup, with the driver sitting centrally, offers a driving experience like no other. Yet, this isn’t a car designed for everyday use. It’s loud, impractical, and, with its low ground clearance, completely unsuited for navigating the narrow, uneven streets of cities like London.
The 1996 McLaren F1 GTR of Team Lark while on display at the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Every pothole or bump becomes a potential hazard, risking damage to the car's delicate underbody. Given how rare and exclusive the F1 GTR Longtail is, any repairs would likely come with an astronomical price tag. But for those lucky enough to own or drive one, the experience of taking this machine out on the road is surely worth the risks.
The 1997 McLaren F1 GTR "Long Tail" of Richard Smith driven by Kenny Bräck at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The presence of a license plate on such a rare hypercar might feel a little out of place, especially when it disrupts the car’s otherwise flawless rear design. This is a car built for speed and aerodynamics, and seeing it with a number plate may require a moment of adjustment. But despite this, the sheer joy of seeing the F1 GTR Longtail on the streets outweighs any aesthetic compromises. These cars, along with other legendary race cars like the Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR and Porsche 911 GT1 Straßenversion, represent a bygone era of automotive excellence. Unfortunately, it’s an era that we may never see again, at least not in the same form.
The 1997 McLaren F1 GTR "Long Tail" while in action at the 1998 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
While manufacturers today continue to innovate, especially with new racing classes like the LMDh, the creation of road-going versions of race cars is becoming increasingly rare. The regulations no longer force companies to build street-legal versions of their racing machines, meaning cars like the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail are becoming historical artifacts, cherished for their uniqueness. However, as automotive technology progresses, enthusiasts can still hope for future models that capture the same spirit of innovation, performance, and beauty that cars like the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail represent.
In a world where speed and technology constantly evolve, the McLaren F1 remains a symbol of what’s possible when brilliant minds come together. Its racing pedigree, combined with its road-going version’s rarity, make it a true legend in the automotive world. As cars continue to become more technologically advanced, the simplicity and purity of the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail will always remind us of a time when cars were built purely for the joy of driving and the thrill of speed. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MCLAREN | STANCEWORKS | ID.MOTOR1 | ID.MOTORSPORT | ULTIMATECARPAGE | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Real Speed Marvel - The world of hypercars has always been a domain where innovation, speed, and cutting-edge technology converge to push the limits of what a road-going vehicle can achieve. McLaren, a brand synonymous with high-performance engineering, has consistently led this charge. In 1992, McLaren introduced the F1, a car that not only redefined hypercars but set the standard for what they could be. Fast forward to 2012, and McLaren once again revolutionized the automotive industry with its first hybrid hypercar, the P1. Now, over three decades since the debut of the F1, McLaren is pushing the boundaries of performance and technology once more with the introduction of their latest marvel, the McLaren W1.
The McLaren W1 is the brand's newest halo model, paying tribute to the legendary F1 and P1 that paved its way. (Picture from: Motor1)
Forgotten ONES - The legacy of the Ford GT40 continues to impress, both on the racetrack and in the world of car enthusiasts. When it was first introduced, the Ford GT40 set the racing world ablaze, challenging rivals like Ferrari and making its mark as a performance icon. It wasn’t just its track performance that left an impression; the GT40's impact reached far beyond, influencing generations of car lovers and even sparking a wave of replicas in the kit car industry. It’s no surprise that such an influential car became a template for various recreations over the years, with one of the notable examples being the Ferrer GT.
The Ferrer GT quickly caught the public attention when it was showcased at the Miami Auto Show in 1966. (Picture from: LorenaGT)
The Ferrer GT was a fascinating tribute to the Ford GT40, utilizing Volkswagen parts and embodying a design that clearly took inspiration from the Ford supercar. In the world of kit cars, the Ferrer GT stood out, especially during an era when such cars were becoming rare treasures. For many car enthusiasts, finding a kit car from the late 1960s or 1970s is like discovering a hidden gem. They are not just rare—they are often considered ultra-rare, a fact that becomes even more evident when you consider cars like the Bradley GT or the various models from Fiberfab. These vehicles hold a special place in the hearts of their owners, who see them as more than just cars; they are pieces of automotive history.
The Ferrer GT was a captivating homage to the Ford GT40, incorporating Volkswagen parts and featuring a design inspired by the Ford supercar. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Ferrer GT was more than just a good-looking vehicle; it was a project that reflected the passion of its creators. The car’s story began as a father-and-son endeavor, with Frank Joseph Ferrer and his son Gary taking on the challenge of building something unique. Frank, who owned Ferrer Aviation Inc., a crash aircraft recovery company based in Miami, worked alongside his son to create a car that would become a part of their family legacy. In 1965, the Ferrers purchased two Fiberfab Aztec bodies but weren’t satisfied with their design. Determined to create something better, they set out to build their own car, using the Aztec as a base while drawing design elements from the Ford GT40 and Porsche 904.
The process of building a Ferrer GT sports car at the Hialeah factory in 1965. (Picture from: LorenaGT)
With the help of fiberglass expert Dick Buckheit, Frank and Gary completed their creation in just eight months. Initially named the Ferrer GT 50, the car eventually became known simply as the Ferrer GT. Although the Ferrers had originally built the car for their personal use, it quickly caught the attention of others when it was showcased at the Miami Auto Show in 1966, even had time to be in the paddock of the "Daytona 24 Hour Continental" test.
The Ferrer GT while sat in dispaly at the 1966 New York Show. (Picture from: LorenaGT)
This unexpected interest led to a series of orders, and soon, the Ferrer Motors Corporation was born. Based in Hialeah, Florida, the company began producing the Ferrer GTbetween 1966 and 1967, although the exact number of cars produced remains uncertain. Some sources claim 103 bodies were made, while others suggest only 11 were completed.
The Ferrer GT featured a fiberglass body, with reinforcements made of iron placed between two layers of fiberglass, ensuring both strength and durability. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Ferrer GT’s journey didn’t end in the United States. It is believed that the Ferrer family also established a car business in Brazil, where they produced the Lorena GT. Built on the Volkswagen Fusca 1300 platform and powered by a Volkswagen 1600 engine, the Lorena GT was another sports coupé that left its mark on the automotive scene. Between 1968 and 1971, around 100 units were produced, with 22 completed by the factory and the remaining bodies assembled by independent builders.
The Lorena GT, known as a Brazilian-made sports coupé that was originally produced as direct derivative of the Ferrer GT sports car of an American company Ferrer Motors Corporation. (Picture from: Carro 2.04)
What made the Ferrer GT special wasn’t just its unique design but also its impressive build quality. The car featured a fiberglass body, with reinforcements made of iron placed between two layers of fiberglass, ensuring both strength and durability. Weighing in at 634 kilos, the Ferrer GT was a lightweight, well-crafted car that could be purchased in various configurations. The complete car was sold for $3,400, while the basic kit cost $990, and the luxury kit was priced at $1,600. Though the exact number of Ferrer GTs produced is still debated, there is no doubt that the car left a lasting impression on those lucky enough to own one.
Today, the Ferrer GT is remembered as a remarkable part of kit car history, a tribute to the passion and creativity of Frank and Gary Ferrer. Although the company was eventually dissolved in 1973, its legacy lives on through the Ferrer GT and the stories of those who helped bring it to life. This project wasn't just about building a car; it was about family, innovation, and the pursuit of something greater, qualities that continue to inspire car enthusiasts to this day. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LORENAGT |FIBERCLASSICS.ORG | BARNFINDS | ALLCARINDEX ]
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