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Friday, December 13, 2024

Aston Martin Valhalla: 1,064 HP Hybrid Supercar Launching Soon

Ingenious Velocity - The allure of high-performance cars has long captivated enthusiasts worldwide. They represent not only speed and engineering prowess but also the peak of human innovation in design and technology. Among the latest entrants to this illustrious category is the Aston Martin Valhalla, a vehicle that pushes the boundaries of what a modern supercar can achieve. Beyond its striking appearance lies a fascinating story of development, ingenuity, and evolution, reflecting Aston Martin's relentless pursuit of excellence.
Limited to just 999 units, the Aston Martin Valhalla embodies exclusivity and a historic milestone, with deliveries starting in late 2025 after years of meticulous development. (Picture from: Aston Martin)
The journey of the Valhalla began in 2019 when Aston Martin announced it as a sibling to the Valkyrie, slotting just below the flagship hypercar. At the time, it was envisioned as a mid-engined marvel with a hybrid V-6 powertrain, boasting a price tag of over $1 million. However, like many ambitious projects, the Valhalla’s path was far from linear. As the automotive landscape shifted, so did Aston Martin's approach, culminating in a dramatically reimagined Valhalla that first reappeared in 2021 with a bold new look and an entirely different powertrain strategy.
The Aston Martin Valhalla, a vehicle that pushes the boundaries of what a modern supercar can achieve. (Picture from: CarAnddriver)
Now, as the Valhalla edges closer to production, its specifications have reached a level that borders on extraordinary. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine derived from a Mercedes-AMG design, the car delivers an impressive 817 horsepower to the rear wheels alone. This engine benefits from meticulous engineering, including a flat-plane crank and dry-sump lubrication, ensuring peak performance even under the rigorous demands of a racetrack. Enhancements to critical components such as the camshaft, pistons, and turbochargers further underscore Aston Martin's commitment to refinement and power.
Like many ambitious projects, the Valhalla’s development evolved with the shifting automotive landscape, leading to a reimagined version in 2021 with a bold new look and powertrain. (Picture from: CarAnddriver)
Augmenting this already formidable engine is a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system that integrates three electric motors. These motors collectively elevate the Valhalla's performance to breathtaking levels, producing a combined 1,064 horsepower and 811 pound-feet of torque. The addition of a 6.0-kWh battery enables not only significant boosts in acceleration but also short bursts of electric-only driving, ideal for urban environments or cruising at steady speeds. This hybrid system is a testament to Aston Martin’s ability to balance raw power with forward-thinking sustainability.
The Aston Martin Valhalla, a groundbreaking supercar, combines stunning design with a story of innovation and evolution, showcasing Aston Martin's pursuit of excellence. (Picture from: CarAnddriver)
The Valhalla's hybrid powertrain doesn’t just add power—it revolutionizes its functionality. The inclusion of a unique eight-speed dual-clutch transmission introduces an electric motor into the gearbox itself. This motor fulfills multiple roles, from enhancing acceleration by mitigating turbo lag to replacing a traditional reverse gear. When reversing or operating in low-speed scenarios, the electric motor takes over, improving efficiency without compromising on performance.
The Valhalla’s chassis and suspension, inspired by Formula 1 technology, features an aluminum subframe and carbon fiber tubs, ensuring a lightweight yet robust structure with a dry weight of just 3,649 pounds. (Picture from: CarAnddriver)
Sophisticated cooling systems are a necessity in a car with such intricate engineering, and Aston Martin has implemented an array of solutions to manage the Valhalla’s heat. The vehicle boasts a network of radiators, including three dedicated to cooling the V-8 engine, smaller ones for the high-voltage systems, and additional cooling elements for the battery. Innovative design features like a roof scoop and side-mounted radiators ensure efficient airflow and thermal management, maintaining optimal performance in all conditions.
The Aston Martin Valhalla's cabin reflects the brand's ethos, seamlessly combining luxury with cutting-edge technology. (Picture from: CarAnddriver)
Equally impressive is the Valhalla’s chassis and suspension setup, which borrows heavily from Formula 1 technology. Constructed around an aluminum subframe with carbon fiber tubs, the car is both lightweight and robust, enabling its dry weight to remain at just 3,649 pounds. The suspension system features pushrod designs at the front and multi-link setups at the rear, supported by adaptive dampers for unparalleled handling precision. Whether navigating sharp corners or maintaining stability at high speeds, the Valhalla is engineered for exceptional control.
The Aston Martin Valhalla showcases precision braking with Brembo carbon ceramic discs, advanced brake-by-wire systems for regenerative braking, and is paired with Michelin tires and lightweight wheel options for enhanced performance. (Picture from: CarAnddriver)
Aston Martin’s dedication to precision extends to braking, with the Valhalla equipped with carbon ceramic discs provided by Brembo. Advanced brake-by-wire systems offer two forms of regenerative braking, allowing the vehicle to harness energy efficiently during deceleration. Paired with Michelin tires and lightweight wheel options, the Valhalla ensures an unparalleled connection to the road, whether it’s on a race track or a winding mountain pass.
Aston Martin Valhalla powered by a turbocharged plug-in-hybrid V8 engine from technical partner Mercedes-AMG. (Picture from: CarAnddriver)
Inside the cabin, the Valhalla reflects Aston Martin’s ethos of combining luxury with cutting-edge technology. The driver’s experience is enhanced through various driving modes that tailor the car’s behavior to the conditions or the driver’s mood. From the dynamic Sport and Race modes to the eco-friendly Pure EV setting, each mode adjusts the powertrain, suspension, and even regenerative braking to suit the desired driving experience.
The Aston Martin Valhalla, beyond its striking appearance, tells a fascinating story of development, ingenuity, and evolution, reflecting the brand's relentless pursuit of excellence. (Picture from: CarAnddriver)
With only 999 units planned for production, the Valhalla represents exclusivity and a milestone in Aston Martin’s storied history. Deliveries are set to begin in the latter half of 2025, following years of development and refinement. It’s a car born from challenges, reinvented with innovation, and poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of supercars. 
 
As Aston Martin unveils the final form of the Valhalla, it serves as a reminder of what is possible when tradition meets technology. This supercar not only showcases the pinnacle of engineering but also encapsulates the passion and creativity that define Aston Martin’s legacy. Each of its 999 owners will be acquiring more than a vehicle—they will own a piece of history, a symbol of the future, and a testament to the endless pursuit of perfection. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ASTON MARTIN | CARANDDRIVER ]
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Thursday, December 12, 2024

1975 Eldorette: The Bold Fusion of Cadillac Eldorado and Corvette

Unique ONES - When discussing iconic custom cars from Hollywood, the name George Barris inevitably comes to mind. Barris was a visionary in the world of automobile customization, and his creations often stole the spotlight in television and film during the 1960s. Barris' work not only redefined what a car could be, but also connected the entertainment industry with custom vehicles, creating a lasting legacy. One of his lesser-known, but equally intriguing creations is the 1975 "Eldorette," a one-of-a-kind Corvette modified with parts from a Cadillac Eldorado for the legendary actor John Belushi.
The 1975 Eldorette, a one-of-a-kind Corvette modified with parts from a Cadillac Eldorado for the legendary actor John Belushi.. (Picture from: BarnFinds)
The Eldorette is a rare artifact of a very particular time in car customization, when the audacious and the extravagant were the standards of the day. Originally based on a Corvette C3, this vehicle's history is tied closely to George Barris and his unmistakable approach to car design. Known for turning conventional vehicles into remarkable, one-of-a-kind automobiles, Barris' touch on the Eldorette is unmistakable. The car was heavily modified with a variety of elements that transformed its look completely, blending parts from a Cadillac Eldorado to create something truly unique.
The 1975 Eldorette, a one-of-a-kind creation by Barris, was heavily modified with Cadillac Eldorado parts, completely transforming its look. (Picture from: DezzysSpeedShop in Facebook)
The story of this Corvette begins with its commission by John Belushi
, the iconic comedian and actor best known for his role in The Blues Brothers. Although details about Belushi’s time with the car remain scarce, its subsequent history offers some insights. After Belushi, the Eldorette found its way into a collection owned by John Foster, where it remained until his death in 1995. From there, it was sold at an estate sale and eventually reappeared on the market, currently seeking a new owner.
Vintage car enthusiasts will appreciate details like the chrome side pipes and Erson dress-up valve covers, both popular features in custom cars of this era. (Picture from: BarnFinds)
As for the car itself, the modifications performed by Barris are nothing short of eye-catching. The fenders and rear quarters were reshaped and extended upward, giving the Eldorette a bulkier, more dramatic profile. The rear was designed in a continental style, featuring a Lincoln emblem—an unusual choice that only adds to the vehicle's distinctiveness. Interestingly, the taillights are reminiscent of those from an AMC Gremlin, adding yet another layer of quirkiness to its design. The front end of the car was also customized, adding a unique flair that sets it apart from any typical Corvette.
The 1975 Eldorette's interior appears to be well-preserved. Its condition, combined with the car’s rarity, makes it an appealing collector’s item, especially for those interested in Hollywood history or Barris’ body of work. (Picture from: BarnFinds)
Under the hood, the Eldorette retains a 350 engine, with little else known about its drivetrain. The transmission is automatic. Vintage car enthusiasts will appreciate details like the chrome side pipes and Erson dress-up valve covers, which were common features in custom cars from this era. The mileage is reportedly 24,500, although the odometer has rolled over, hinting at the car’s extensive use over the decades.
Under the hood, the Eldorette features a 350 engine and an automatic transmission, though details about the rest of the drivetrain remain limited. (Picture from: BarnFinds)
The interior of the Eldorette, based on the few available images, appears to be well-preserved. Its condition, combined with the car’s rarity, makes it an appealing collector’s item, especially for those interested in Hollywood history or Barris’ body of work. The T-Top panels, a classic feature of many Corvettes, are likely stored behind the seats in the luggage compartment, another nod to its practicality despite its wild appearance.
The 1975 Eldorette features T-Top panels, a classic Corvette element likely stored behind the seats in the luggage compartment, adding practicality to its wild appearance. (Picture from: BarnFinds)
For car collectors or enthusiasts looking for something that stands out, the Eldorette offers an intriguing opportunity. With an asking price of $24,999 (in September, 2023), the vehicle is a piece of history that could serve as a conversation starter at any car show or event. The seller has even floated the possibility of a trade, showing interest in another head-turning vehicle that isn’t a project car. For those in the market for a one-of-a-kind custom car with celebrity provenance, this might just be the gem they’ve been searching for.
The 1975 Eldorette is undeniably eye-catching, with reshaped fenders and rear quarters extended upward, giving it a bulkier, more dramatic profile. (Picture from: DezzysSpeedShop in Facebook)
Yet, for all its divisiveness, the Eldorette is undoubtedly a testament to George Barris’ creativity and willingness to push boundaries. It’s a car that elicits strong reactions—whether of admiration or confusion—and that’s precisely what makes it so fascinating. As one of the few remaining relics of the custom car era of the 1970s, the Eldorette stands as a symbol of the bold experimentation that characterized automotive culture at the time.
In the end, the Eldorette might not be to everyone's taste, but it is undeniably a unique piece of history. Whether you view it as a work of art or an automotive oddity, its connection to both George Barris and John Belushi ensures that it will always hold a special place in the annals of custom car culture. For the right buyer, it represents not only a rare opportunity but a piece of Hollywood’s eccentric past brought to life on four wheels. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BARNFINDS | CORVETTEBLOGGER | CORVETTEFORUM | DEZZYS SPEEDSHOP IN FACEBOOK ]
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Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar Set to Conquer Le Mans

Racing Revolution - The world of motorsports is no stranger to innovation and fierce competition, and the entry of new players always stirs excitement among enthusiasts. Genesis, a brand renowned for luxury and precision, is about to make waves in the endurance racing scene. Starting from 2026, Genesis will step into the prestigious World Endurance Championship (WEC), followed by participation in the IMSA series the subsequent year. This move signals a bold leap into premier racing for a brand primarily associated with road luxury.
Genesis’ debut top-class prototype, the GMR-001, an LMDh built on an ORECA chassis, will debut in the 2026 FIA WEC before entering IMSA’s GTP class in 2027. (Picture from: TopGear)
Behind this ambitious venture lies Genesis Magma Racing, a team set to compete with a state-of-the-art hypercar, the Genesis GMR-001. The car is built to meet the rigorous Le Mans Daytona hybrid (LMDh) regulations. These stipulations ensure a balance of performance, with a hybrid system limited to a total output of 698 horsepower and a minimum weight of 1,030 kg. Genesis is keeping the specifics of its hybrid powertrain a secret for now, but it has confirmed a turbocharged V8 engine derived from Hyundai’s rally expertise as the heart of the GMR-001.
The scale model of the Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar debuted in Dubai, marking the start of its journey to the FIA WEC in 2026 and IMSA in 2027. (Picture from: DailySportscar)
This endeavor isn’t just about technical prowess; it’s a showcase of strategic planning and top-tier management. Genesis Magma Racing has enlisted notable figures to steer its campaign. Cyril Abiteboul, known for his stint as Renault F1 boss, will lead the team. Adding star power to the driver lineup is Andre Lotterer, a three-time Le Mans winner, alongside a cast of experienced professionals. Supporting them is ORECA Motorsport, a respected name in endurance racing, operating from its base in France.
The Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar was designed by Genesis Design Europe, led by the brand's chief creative officer, Luc Donckerwolke. (Picture from: TopGear)
Hyundai Motorsport, the parent company of Genesis, has demonstrated its dedication to long-term racing success, as evidenced by its triumph in the WRC drivers’ championship with Thierry Neuville after years of perseverance. This track record suggests Genesis’ foray into endurance racing will not be a short-lived experiment but a meticulously crafted pursuit of excellence.
The Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar showcases key design elements from the brand’s road cars, including signature Two Lines lighting at the front and rear, a sweeping parabolic line along its sides. (Picture from: TopGear)
The competition in the LMDh category is fierce, with stalwarts like Porsche, Toyota, Ferrari, and Aston Martin vying for supremacy. However, the "Balance of Performance" regulations aim to create a level playing field, making the battle one of strategy, skill, and innovation. Genesis, with its luxury-oriented brand identity, complements Hyundai’s focus on rallying and touring car series, positioning itself as a contender in the pinnacle of endurance racing.
The Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar embodies a fusion of performance ambitions and design-driven DNA, blending the vibrant passion of Magma's intense orange with precision engineering to usher in a new era where speed meets elegance. (Picture from: TopGear)
Even before the official LMDh debut, Genesis will sharpen its skills with an LMP2 car in the European Le Mans Series in 2025. This preparatory step will feature a star-studded roster, including Logan Sargeant, an ex-Williams F1 driver, and Jamie Chadwick, a three-time W-Series champion. Such a setup highlights the brand’s commitment to nurturing talent and building a competitive edge from the ground up.
This ambitious journey also serves a dual purpose: aligning Genesis’ racing endeavors with its upcoming high-performance Magma road cars. By integrating racing technology into its luxury vehicles, the brand seeks to redefine the intersection of speed and sophistication. For fans and customers alike, this promises a future where the thrill of the racetrack meets the elegance of premium automobiles.
Genesis’ entry into endurance racing is more than a challenge to established giants; it is a testament to the brand’s ambition and vision. As the countdown to 2026 begins, motorsport enthusiasts eagerly anticipate how this newcomer will reshape the dynamics of high-performance racing. Will Genesis’ luxury DNA and Hyundai’s motorsport legacy pave the way for groundbreaking success? Only time will tell, but the excitement is already palpable. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GENESIS | TOPGEAR | DAILYSPORTSCAR ]
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Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Midas: Golden Touches Transforming the Mini Marcos Legacy

Timeless Innovation - The automotive world thrives on innovation, fueled by passionate individuals and companies aiming to combine performance, style, and timeless appeal. Among the many iconic creations, the Marcos Mini, also known as the Mini Marcos, stands as a symbol of ingenuity and adaptability. Debuting in the mid-1960s, this compact yet powerful kit car secured its place in history with impressive performance and a distinctive design. But its journey didn’t stop there—this remarkable car continued to evolve, transforming into something even greater.
The Midas is a British made kit car initially manufactured by D&H Fibreglass Techniques using Mini running gear. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
In the 1970s, D & H Fibreglass Techniques saw potential in the Marcos Mini Mark IV and sought to refine its design. Harold Dermott, the head of D & H, envisioned a modernized version of the car that could attract a broader audience. To achieve this, he collaborated with designer Richard Oakes, resulting in a sleek and reimagined vehicle named the Midas. The choice of name symbolized a golden touch, hinting at the belief that this new iteration would captivate enthusiasts and buyers alike.
The Midas is the result of a collaboration between D&H Fibreglass Techniques and designer Richard Oakes. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Mechanically, the Midas retained much of the Mini Marcos’s original essence but introduced notable improvements. Gone was the rear subframe of the BMC Mini, replaced with a beam-mounted system for the rear trailing arms. When it debuted at the 1978 Performance Car Show in London, the Midas lived up to its name, generating significant interest and a flood of orders. The car’s appeal lay not only in its design but also in its promise of modern performance and enhanced usability.
The Midas Mark II aka the Bronze benefited significantly from Harold’s marketing, which highlighted the contributions of Brabham Formula 1 Chief Designer Gordon Murray. (Picture from: AROnline)
By the mid-1980s, the Midas underwent another transformation to accommodate parts from newer vehicles like the Morris and MG Metro. This redesign, again helmed by Richard Oakes, introduced larger windows, wider wings, and an updated front end. Gordon Murray, a renowned automotive engineer, also contributed to aerodynamic refinements, ensuring the car met contemporary standards. 
The Midas Mark II aka the Bronze benefited significantly from Harold’s marketing, which highlighted the contributions of Brabham Formula 1 Chief Designer Gordon Murray. (Picture from: Silodrome)
With safety becoming a priority, the new Midas model passed rigorous crash tests, paving the way for sales as complete vehicles and kits. Despite these advancements, the Midas faced setbacks. A fire in 1989 destroyed its factory, halting production and leading to the sale of D & H to Pastiche Cars
Produced from 1985 to 1990, the Midas Bronze joined the Gold model lineup, enhanced with design improvements by Gordon Murray. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Unfortunately, Pastiche Cars soon folded. The resilience of the Midas and Mini Marcos did not waver. Ownership of Midas Cars passed through various hands, including GTM to a new Midas Cars Ltd. based in Redditch, West Midlands. The range now consisted of the Coupé, renamed the Cortez, and a K-Series powered convertible named the Excelsior. Although the cars were well received the company went into liquidation in 2003.
In adverts the company claimed the Midas Gold was “Britain’s economy superstar” with a lifetime no-rust warranty, and readers were urged to address enquiries to Harold Dermott himself at the Corby works. (Picture from: MidasRacer in Flickr)
A new company,  Alternative Cars Ltd., was set up in 2003 and in 2004 restarted production of kit form versions of the Gold Convertible, Cortez and Excelsior based in a small workshop unit at Clanfield, Oxfordshire. In 2007 the Midas Owners Club rediscovered the Gold coupe moulds in Germany and bought them and were imported back to England, ensuring its survival into the 21st century. 
From top-left: the Midas Gold Convertible (produced from 1985 to present), top-right: the Midas Cortez (1995 to present), and at the bottom: the Midas Excelsior (2002 to present). (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Meanwhile the rights to the Mini Marcos returned to Marcos Ltd., signaling a turning point for the model’s legacy. The Mini Marcos kits offered flexibility, allowing customers to purchase components progressively or all at once. This adaptability ensured that the car remained accessible to a new generation of builders and drivers.
The 1991 Marcos Mini Mark V showcased modern enhancements like 13-inch wheels, an optional walnut dashboard, and air conditioning, blending retro charm with contemporary comfort. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)
By 1991, the Marcos Mini Mark V showcased modern enhancements like 13-inch wheels, an optional walnut dashboard, and air conditioning, blending retro charm with contemporary comfort. Notably, it became the first fully built Mini Marcos exported to Japan, marking a milestone in its journey.
Brochure of the Marcos Mini Mark VI produced as a kit-car by Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Later, Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd. acquired the rights to the Mini Marcos, offering kit forms of the Mark VI and Mark VI GT models. These kits were designed for enthusiasts who sought to resurrect old Mini parts, combining practicality with nostalgia. The fibreglass body provided a durable alternative to the Mini’s original steel structure, making it an ideal project for restoring rusted or damaged vehicles.
Brochure of the Marcos Mini Mark VI GT produced as a kit-car by Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Today, the Mini Marcos continues to inspire admiration among automotive enthusiasts. Its compact size, thrilling performance, and rich history transport drivers to the vibrant 1960s, while its enduring relevance proves its ability to thrive in a modern world.
Whether as a restored classic or a newly built kit, the Mini Marcos embodies a spirit of adventure and creativity that refuses to fade. Its journey reminds us that innovation and passion can keep even the smallest icons alive, proving that some legends truly never die. (Back to its roots). ** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MARCOS-OC | WIKIPEDIA | MAXIMUM MINI | ARONLINE | SILODROME ]
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Monday, December 9, 2024

Limited to 20 Units: The Ultra-Rare Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Versace

Rare ONES - Success in life is often reflected in the possessions we acquire, and for some, luxury cars are a true symbol of achievement. When thinking of extravagant automobiles, Lamborghini instantly comes to mind, celebrated for its iconic supercars that merge speed with cutting-edge design. In 2007, Lamborghini took luxury to new heights by partnering with the renowned Italian fashion house, Versace. This collaboration resulted in the creation of a handful of limited-edition Murciélago LP640 Versace Coupes and Roadsters.
The Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Versace shown in the picture is a Coupe model, which is the 8th unit of the 20 produced. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Sunday, December 8, 2024

One lasting of Dutch Auto Gems: Spyker C12 Zagato

Crazy ONES - In the world of automotive design, collaboration often brings out the best in car manufacturing. One such remarkable partnership is between Spyker, the Dutch car manufacturer, and Zagato, a renowned coachbuilder based in Milan. This collaboration resulted in the creation of the Spyker C12 Zagato, an extraordinary show car launched in 2008.
Under the bright lights of the Geneva Motor Show 2008, the Spyker C12 Zagato's unique blend of 1950s jet car aesthetics and boat-like features stood out. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Spyker C12 Zagato is a testament to innovative design and engineering. Based on the C12 Spyder, the C12 Zagato features a distinctive double bubble panoramic roof, an F1-inspired nose, unique air intakes, and the signature Zagato "coda tronca" cut-off tail end. This special edition was created to commemorate Spyker's entry into Formula One in 2007, with F1 driver Adrian Sutil unveiling the car to the public.
The Spyker C12 Zagato features an F1-inspired nose, coupled with such unique air intakes. (Picture from: FastestLaps)
The C12 Zagato's design
is striking and unconventional, drawing mixed reactions. Under the bright lights of the Geneva Motor Show, the car's unique blend of 1950s jet car aesthetics and boat-like features stood out. Despite its unusual appearance, the car maintained key elements from the C8, such as the scissor doors and aviation-themed interior.
The Spyker C12 Zagato maintained key elements from the C8, such as the scissor doors and aviation-themed interior. (Picture from: CarMagazine)
Performance-wise, the C12 Zagato is impressive. It is powered by a 6.0-litre W12 engine sourced from Volkswagen, delivering 500 horsepower. This enables the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 193 mph. The car's mechanical setup includes a six-speed manual transmission with F1-inspired paddle shifts and steel ventilated disc brakes with anti-lock braking systems.
The Spyker C12 Zagato features an aviation-themed cabin with a meticulously designed full leather interior, complemented by a brushed aluminum instrument panel. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
The Spyker C12 Zagato was introduced at the 2007 Salon International de l'Auto in Geneva, with plans to produce only 24 units. The car was priced starting at £350,000, reflecting its exclusivity and advanced features. However, only one prototype was ever built as Spyker shifted its focus to other models like the C8 and a planned SUV.
The Spyker C12 Zagato powered by a 6.0-litre W12 engine sourced from Volkswagen, delivering 500 horsepower. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Spyker's history is both short and intriguing. The company began its journey in the supercar market in 1999, producing two main models: the C8 and the C12. Despite their exceptional design and performance, Spyker faced significant challenges, declaring bankruptcy in 2014. They briefly returned in 2015 before financial difficulties arose again in 2021. In January 2022, with Russian investors' backing, Spyker announced a return to car production, reigniting hopes for the brand's revival.
The Spyker C12 Zagato showcases the dedication to craftsmanship and excellence. (Picture from: Zagato)
The legacy of the Spyker C12 Zagato continues to inspire, showcasing what can be achieved when artistry and engineering converge. The tale of Spyker's ups and downs adds an intriguing layer to the C12 Zagato's story. The company's resilience and determination to bounce back from financial troubles reflect the spirit of innovation that drives the automotive industry. The C12 Zagato, with its limited production and high price tag, symbolizes the pinnacle of what can be achieved when passion meets expertise.
The Spyker C12 Zagato features a distinctive double bubble panoramic roof, coupled with the signature Zagato "coda tronca" cut-off tail end (Picture from: CarMagazine)
The Spyker C12 Zagato stands out not just for its unique design but also for the story behind its creation. The partnership between Spyker and Zagato brought forth a car that is more than just a vehicle; it is a piece of art. The meticulous attention to detail, from the double bubble roof to the aviation-themed interior, showcases the dedication to craftsmanship and excellence. The car's performance capabilities further cement its status as a remarkable feat of engineering. | WYlvZPLm3tM |
Reflecting on this unique creation, it serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when artistry and engineering converge. The legacy of the Spyker C12 Zagato continues to inspire, proving that even in the face of adversity, the pursuit of excellence can lead to extraordinary results. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAGATO | WIKIPEDIA | CLASSIC | SUPERACARS.NET | FASTESTLAPS | CARMAGAZINE | ]
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