Bespoke Legacy - In the world of automobile design, the art of creating custom bodywork has slowly faded away over the years. Once a common practice in the early days of motoring, the expense of skilled labor, combined with modern safety standards, made such projects increasingly rare by the 1960s. However, there are always those few individuals and companies that seek to revive this lost art.
This gold-finished Owen Sedanca, now owned by Richard Town since May 2017, was found in Hampshire with 23,000 miles and plans for restoration to roadworthy condition by season's end. (Picture from: Wolfrace)
One such example comes from H.R. Owen, a luxury car dealer based in London. In the early 1970s, H.R. Owen embarked on an ambitious project to create a high-end, four-seater coupe that would capture the essence of classic, hand-crafted automobiles. Their creation, the Owen Sedanca, was based on the platform of the Jaguar XJ6 and designed by Chris Humberstone. Inspired by the sleek lines of the Lamborghini Espada, the Sedanca featured a large yet striking design with a hand-beaten aluminum body.
The Owen Sedanca, the first Panther-built example, differs from the original with notable changes such as higher-mounted door handles and a revised headlamp arrangement. (Picture from: AROnline)
Made by the skilled coachbuilders Williams & Pritchard, it had innovative touches like pop-up headlights, rubber bumpers, and a practical hatchback. Despite its significant price tag, higher even than a Rolls-Royce, the Sedanca gained significant attention when it debuted at the 1973 London Motor Show. Its allure was immediate, and H.R. Owen even secured around 80 orders.
The Owen Sedanca, under construction at Williams & Pritchard's workshops, featured a fixed roof, making it a Sedanca in name only. (Picture from: AROnline)
However, the automotive world was about to change drastically. The global oil crisis, which emerged soon after the Sedanca's unveiling, led to cancellations of many of these orders. At the same time, Jaguar’s refusal to supply the bare platforms for the car meant that H.R. Owen could not continue production. As a result, only two prototypes were completed, marking the sudden end of a project that had promised much more.
The Owen Sedanca, featured in one of H.R. Owen’s original publicity shots, shows the prototype, which was later destroyed along with the first production model. (Picture from: AROnline)
But the Owen Sedanca was not done just yet. Several years after production plans were scrapped, an Arab Sheik who had seen the car at the motor show became so captivated by it that he ordered a custom version of the Sedanca. This vehicle was constructed in 1978 by Panther Westwinds, a well-known coachbuilder led by Robert Jankel. The Sheik took the car to his Oxfordshire estate, where it was used for several years. So taken with the design, he ordered a second Sedanca in 1983. This one was built by Robert Jankel Design, as he had left Panther after its closure in 1979.
The Owen Sedanca custom version constructed by Robert Jankel in 1983, was meticulously crafted for an Arab Sheik, showcasing exclusive luxury and bespoke design. (Picture from: RitzSite.nl)
Ultimately, only four Sedancas were made, far from the 100 originally planned. One of the prototypes was destroyed, and the other remains in poor condition. However, the two cars made for the Sheik continue to survive, with one still in Britain and the other in the Netherlands. These cars are a testament to the uniqueness and craftsmanship of coachbuilt automobiles. The rarity of the Sedanca makes it a highly sought-after piece for collectors, as its custom-built nature ensures that no two are quite the same.
The Owen Sedanca boasted a highly luxurious interior, complete with silver-topped decanters, brushes elegantly stored in the armrest, and other refined details. (Picture from: AROnline)
In recent years, interest in custom-designed cars has started to rise again. Modern manufacturing technologies have made it easier and more affordable for car buyers to commission bespoke designs. The Owen Sedanca, though largely forgotten by the mainstream, serves as a reminder of a time when automobiles were more than just machines—they were expressions of artistry and personal taste. With renewed interest in bespoke cars, we might just be on the brink of a new era for custom-designed automobiles, where creativity and craftsmanship can once again thrive on a smaller, more intimate scale.
The legacy of the Owen Sedanca proves that, while mass production has dominated the automotive world, there will always be a place for the bespoke, the unique, and the extraordinary. In a world of increasingly standardized products, custom cars like the Sedanca remind us that luxury and individuality can never be replaced. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RITZSITE.NL | ARONLINE | WOLFRACE ]
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Unique ONES - Franco Sbarro has long been regarded as a visionary in the world of automotive design, creating masterpieces that defy convention. His works often surprise and challenge established norms, and his creations go beyond mere transportation—they are statements. One of his standout achievements was introduced to the world in 2011, capturing attention not just for its performance, but for its bold reimagining of what a car could be. This creation, whimsically named the Two For 100, is a testament to Sbarro’s unique approach to automotive design.
The Sbarro Two For 100 was focused on lightening vehicles, adopting smaller, more fuel-efficient engines and improving aerodynamics. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)
The focus of this particular project was on crafting a lighter, more efficient vehicle. Sbarro set out to reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing the driving experience. With the Two For 100, he adopted the philosophy of combining a smaller, more fuel-efficient engine with improved aerodynamics, creating a vehicle that was not only eco-friendly but also innovative in its design. The name itself is a clever nod to its efficiency—two liters of fuel for every hundred kilometers, an impressive feat by any standard.
Franco Sbarro at the wheel of the Two For 100, a kind of bubble on wheels. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)
As environmental concerns become increasingly central to the automotive industry, Sbarro’s foresight in creating a vehicle that prioritizes efficiency was ahead of its time. Decades before the Two For 100 made its debut, Sbarro was already exploring alternative energy sources. In 1977, he designed the Pilcar, an electric car at a time when electric vehicles were seen as mere experimental whims rather than a viable future for transportation. However, by 2011, it seemed that Sbarro had shifted his focus slightly, moving away from electric power and towards optimizing traditional internal combustion engines. His new direction emphasized reducing weight, shrinking engine sizes, and refining aerodynamics, while still producing an efficient vehicle.
The Sbarro Two For 100 featured a bubble-shaped interior offers unrivalled 360° panoramic vision, and made debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)
The Two For 100, presented at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, encapsulated all of these principles. Weighing in at just 500 kilograms and powered by a modest 600 cc engine, this compact vehicle was designed to excel in both urban environments and on open roads. One of the most fascinating aspects of the car was its adaptability. It could be driven in a low position to reduce drag and improve performance, or in a higher position for better visibility in crowded city streets, where aerodynamics play a less critical role. The result was a car that not only met its fuel efficiency target but did so with an innovative design that was practical and forward-thinking.
The Sbarro Two For 100 featuring a simple and comfortable cabin awaits the two occupants. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)
What surprised visitors to the Geneva show was the design of the Two For 100, far removed from the usual criteria. Extremely short (3.5 m), its bubble-shaped interior offers unrivalled 360° panoramic vision. The car's technical side was overshadowed by the eternal quips to which Franco Sbarro must be accustomed. Which is a pity, but it doesn't matter. The Two For 100 is an interesting concept, by no means revolutionary, but it does offer a synthesis of what could be done in mass production to make cars less polluting, without resorting to expensive technologies.
Careful aerodynamics led Sbarro to fair the unique wheels. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)
Despite its technical merits, however, the car’s unusual appearance drew quizzical looks and remarks from onlookers, perhaps overshadowing the innovation beneath the surface. But as with many of Sbarro’s creations, the Two For 100 was never just about fitting in—it was about pushing boundaries and presenting new possibilities.
The Sbarro Two For 100 is adorned with unique transparent polycarbonate wheels, similar to those seen on the 2008 Pendocar. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)
One particularly innovative feature of the Two For 100 was its wheels. Made entirely of polycarbonate, these transparent wheels were not only lightweight but also added a futuristic aesthetic to the car’s overall look. This wasn’t the first time Sbarro had experimented with polycarbonate wheels—he had previously introduced them on the 2008 Pendocar, a motorcycle that shared the same cutting-edge spirit. The use of polycarbonate in the wheels was another example of Sbarro’s ingenuity, highlighting his ability to incorporate unconventional materials into his designs while still maintaining functionality.
The Sbarro Two For 100 a reflection of Franco Sbarro’s unique vision and creativity. (Picture from: Sbarro.PhCalvet.fr)
The Two For 100 may not have revolutionized the automotive world in the way electric vehicles eventually did, but it did offer a fresh perspective on how cars could be made more environmentally friendly. Sbarro’s work showcased that eco-friendly vehicles didn’t need to rely on expensive or complicated technologies to reduce their impact on the planet. By focusing on simple yet effective strategies like reducing weight and improving aerodynamics, he demonstrated that innovation could come from rethinking the basics rather than relying solely on high-tech solutions.
n the end, the Two For 100 was a reflection of Franco Sbarro’s unique vision and creativity. It wasn’t just a car—it was an exploration of how vehicles could evolve to meet new challenges while staying true to the principles of efficiency and practicality. Even if it didn’t become a mainstream production model, it remains an important piece in the puzzle of automotive history, offering a glimpse into what could be achieved with a different approach. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SBARRO.PHCALVET.FR | RADICAL-MAG ]
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Rare ONES - When you think of supercars, Belgium may not be the first country that comes to mind. However, that perception changed with the introduction of the VDS GT 001. This remarkable supercar, with its roots in Belgian design and craftsmanship, brings a sense of pride to the country. It’s based on a Maserati V8 engine, and its story is one of passion and heritage, blending the power of Italian engineering with Belgian ingenuity.
The VDS GT 001 embodies passion and heritage, brought to life by Van der Straten, merging Italian engineering power with Belgian creativity. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
At the heart of this creation is Raphaël van der Straten, a man with deep ties to racing. For years, Van der Straten's family name has been synonymous with motorsports, and through VDS Racing Adventures, he continued the legacy of competitive racing. He had long dreamed of creating his own supercar, and in 2012, that dream became a reality with the VDS GT 001. The car was unveiled to much anticipation, marking a significant moment in Belgium’s automotive history.
The VDS GT 001 was built on the foundation of the Gillet Vertigo .5 Spirit. The partnership between Van der Straten and Tony Gillet, the mastermind behind the Gillet brand, played a crucial role in making this car a reality. While the initial plan was to incorporate the existing Vertigo chassis, Van der Straten’s vision required something more bespoke. Gillet modified the carbon fiber chassis, creating a new, extended version to meet the specific needs of the VDS GT 001. This wasn’t just about creating another car—it was about crafting something unique that reflected Van der Straten’s personal touch and racing experience.
The rear, with its modern diffuser and neo-retro lights, blends contemporary design with nostalgic cues, making the VDS GT 001 a car that feels both timeless and cutting-edge.(Picture from: Supercars.net)
The design of the VDS GT 001 pays homage to classic American muscle cars, particularly the Ford Mustangs once owned and raced by Van der Straten's grandfather. His admiration for the aggressive, bold styling of Mustangs inspired elements of the GT 001’s design. The wide grille, circular headlights, and side vents all give a nod to the iconic 1970 Boss 302 Mustang. The rear, with its modern diffuser and neo-retro lights, blends contemporary design with nostalgic cues, making the GT 001 a car that feels both timeless and cutting-edge.
The VDS GT 001-R, the competition variant, made its debut at the 24-Hours of Dubai in 2013, showcasing the Belgian automaker's commitment to blending style with substance. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Raphaël’s journey to bring the VDS GT 001 to life was not without its challenges. From the initial sketches by Charles van den Bosch to the full-scale model created by Patrick Bataille, the development of this car was a labor of love. Every detail, from the exhaust placement to the grille design, was carefully considered. Van der Straten was deeply involved in the process, working closely with Gillet and his team to ensure that the final product matched his vision.
The VDS GT 001 (shown here in its competition variant) combines striking aesthetics with speed, featuring a carbon fiber body and a 480-horsepower Maserati V8 engine, making it a true powerhouse. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
The VDS GT 001 isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also built for speed. With a carbon fiber body and a Maserati V8 engine producing 480 horsepower, the car is a force to be reckoned with. Weighing only 990 kilograms thanks to its lightweight materials, it promises exceptional performance on both the road and the track. Raphaël van der Straten’s plans to create 22 road-going versions of the VDS GT 001 and to race the competition variant, the VDS GT 001-R, at the 24-Hours of Dubai in 2013 demonstrate his commitment to combining style with substance.
The VDS GT 001 (shown here in its competition variant) was the automaker's lifelong dream realized, marking Belgium’s entry into high-performance sports cars. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
This car isn’t just a symbol of Belgian pride; it’s a testament to the enduring passion for racing that runs through the Van der Straten family. For Raphaël, it’s the realization of a lifelong dream, and for Belgium, it’s a step into the world of high-performance sports cars. | UdqKyPkUcl0 |
The VDS GT 001 marks a significant moment not only for Van der Straten but also for Belgium as a whole. It's a car that challenges the notion of what a supercar should be and where it can come from. With its sleek design, powerful engine, and racing pedigree, the VDS GT 001 is a reminder that dreams, when combined with determination and skill, can lead to extraordinary achievements. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VDS RACING ADVENTURES | SUPERCARS.NET | ULTIMATECARPAGE ]
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Unorthodox Legacy - Cars have always been a reflection of innovation and creativity, embodying the spirit of their creators. One particularly unique automotive tale belongs to SAAB, a brand that defied conventions and embraced bold engineering choices. Among its most remarkable creations is the SAAB Sonett, a sports car that stands as a testament to the company’s daring vision and technical ingenuity.
The SAAB Sonett I born out of the imagination of four SAAB engineers—Rolf Mellde, Lars Olov Olsson, Olle Lindkvist, and Gotte Svensson in 1955, debuted at the 1956 Stockholm Motor Show. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The origins of the SAAB Sonett trace back to 1955, born out of the imagination of four SAAB engineers—Rolf Mellde, Lars Olov Olsson, Olle Lindkvist, and Gotte Svensson. This ambitious team crafted the first prototype, later named the SAAB Sonett I or SAAB 94, aka Super Sport, as an independent project. With its lightweight body made from glass-fiber-reinforced plastic and an alloy frame, the roadster weighed just 521 kilograms.
The SAAB Sonett I roadster featured with a lightweight body made from glass-fiber-reinforced plastic and an alloy frame, the roadster weighed just 521 kilograms. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
It was equipped with a modest 784cc inline-three engine delivering 58 horsepower, achieving a top speed of 201 kph and acceleration under 12 seconds. Designed primarily for circuit racing, the Sonett I debuted at the 1956 Stockholm Motor Show. However, regulatory changes allowing modified street cars in the target racing class led to the abandonment of plans for mass production after only six units were built.
The SAAB Sonett II (pictured, 1966 model), also known as the SAAB 97, was a compact two-seater coupe launched in 1966, marking the company’s first production sports car.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
SAAB wasn’t ready to close the chapter on the Sonett legacy. In 1966, a decade after the Sonett I, the Sonett II—also known as the SAAB 97—made its debut as the company’s first production sports car. The journey to its creation began in 1964 when designer Sixten Sason crafted a personal prototype—a sports car with a targa type resin body—named Catherina, which debuted in 1965. Around the same time, designers Björn Karlström and Björn Andreasson developed a compact two-seater coupe called the MFI-13.
The SAAB Sonett II (pictured, 1966 model) was initially powered by an 841cc inline-three two-stroke engine, delivering 60 horsepower.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
Both designs were submitted to SAAB’s leadership, who ultimately favored the MFI-13 over Sason’s Catherina, leading to its approval for production. The resulting Sonett II featured an 841cc inline-three two-stroke engine delivering 60 horsepower. However, its heavier weight of 710 kg made it slightly slower than its predecessor, the Sonett I.
To meet stringent American emissions requirements, the SAAB Sonett II had its engine replaced with a Ford-sourced 1.5-liter V4, and the model became known as the SAAB Sonett V4 (pictured, 1968 V4 model).(Picture from: Wikipedia)
Despite the reduced performance, the Sonett II made its mark, introducing more significant innovations when the engine was later replaced by a Ford-sourced 1.5-liter V4. This updated version produced 65 horsepower with similar acceleration but a lower top speed of 161 kph due to stricter American emission regulations. This Sonett V4variant saw better sales, with 1,868 units sold compared to the Sonett II inline-three model’s modest 229 units.
The SAAB Sonett III (pictured, 1971 model) embodied the aesthetic of the 1970s, complete with pop-up headlights that added flair.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
The journey didn’t end there. In 1970, SAAB unveiled the Sonett III, an evolution of the Sonett II with a strikingly different appearance was designed by an Italian designer Sergio Caggiola. This redesigned model embodied the aesthetic of the 1970s, complete with pop-up headlights that added flair. Initially powered by the same V4 engine as the Sonett II, the Sonett III later received an engine upgrade to a 1.7-liter V4 in 1971.
The SAAB Sonett III (pictured, 1972 model) was
an evolution of the Sonett II, featuring a strikingly different
appearance, and was designed by Italian designer Sergio Caggiola. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
However, stricter emission rules limited its output to 65 horsepower. Weighing more than its predecessors, the Sonett III had a 0-100 kph acceleration time of 14 seconds and a top speed of 164 kph. Despite its charm, rising costs due to regulatory compliance led to the Sonett III’s production ending in 1974 after 8,368 units were built.
The SAAB Sonett III (pictured, 1972 model) featured a dashboard with a three-spoke steering wheel and driver-focused gauges and instrument panels.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
The SAAB Sonett is a fascinating chapter in automotive history, showcasing SAAB’s unconventional approach and passion for innovation. Its quirky front-wheel-drive configuration, rare V4 engine, and distinctive designs make it a car worth remembering. Whether admired for its engineering or style, the Sonett remains a symbol of SAAB’s daring spirit in the competitive world of sports cars.
The SAAB Sonett III (pictured, 1974 model) quirky front-wheel-drive configuration, rare V4 engine, and distinctive designs make it a car worth remembering. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Sonett name was set to make a comeback as the production version of the SAAB PhoeniX Concept. Designed by Jason Castriota, it was envisioned as an affordable halo car for SAAB—a 2+2 sports car capable of producing up to 400 hp in its most powerful iteration. The car was planned to utilize the innovative Phoenix platform, which was also intended to support the next-generation 9-3 and 9-1 compact models. However, these ambitious projects were ultimately canceled following SAAB's dissolution in 2012.
The legacy of the SAAB Sonett invites car enthusiasts to reflect on its bold design and intriguing features. This model, like the SAAB brand itself, celebrates creativity and resilience in an ever-changing industry. For those who appreciate cars with unique character, the SAAB Sonett stands as a reminder that sometimes, taking the road less traveled leads to unforgettable milestones. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Italian Excellence - The history of Alfa Romeo is rich with iconic designs and engineering marvels, and one of the most intriguing chapters in this story revolves around the Alfa Romeo 2600. While Bertone’s involvement with the Alfa Romeo 2600 HS is well-known, another famous Italian coachbuilder, Pininfarina, also had a hand in crafting a version based on the same platform called the Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale.
The Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale by Pininfarina is a unique one-off prototype that highlights Pininfarina‘s innovative design approach based on the Alfa Romeo 2600 platform. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
This collaboration led to the creation of one of the most memorable models in Alfa Romeo's history, a car that embodied the brand's commitment to performance, luxury, and innovation. The journey of the 2600 Coupé Speciale began at the 1962 Turin and Geneva Motor Shows, where it debuted as a Spider cabrioletwith striking red paint and daring design drew immediate attention.
The Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale by Pininfarina began its life as the Alfa Romeo 2600 Cabriolet Speciale, featuring a striking red paint and a daring design that immediately captured attention. (Picture from: CurbsideClassic)
Pininfarina's touch was evident in every curve and detail, particularly in the incorporation of the "scudetto,"Alfa Romeo’s signature shield grille, which served both as an aesthetic centerpiece and a functional air intake. Adding to its futuristic appeal were pop-up headlights that accentuated the car's streamlined, forward-looking profile.
The Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale by Pininfarina underwent a transformation in January 1963, evolving from its original Spider cabriolet form into a refined and stylish Coupé.(Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
In January 1963, this prototype underwent a transformation that would redefine its character. Converted into a coupé, it was showcased at the Brussels Motor Show, now wearing a vibrant green finish. The shift from an open-top Spider to a closed-top coupé highlighted Pininfarina’s ability to reinterpret a design without losing its essence. The new look provided a sense of refinement while maintaining the boldness of the original concept.
The Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale by Pininfarina's new look offered a refined sense of style while preserving the boldness of the original concept, paired with a luxurious and comfortable interior.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Coupé retained many of the core elements of the Spider’s design, ensuring continuity while presenting a more enclosed silhouette. Its clean lines and dynamic proportions captured the spirit of innovation that defined Pininfarina’s approach. After its time in the spotlight, the car traveled across the Atlantic, eventually being discovered in the United States.
The Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale by Pininfarina is powered by a 2.6-liter straight-six engine with an all-alloy construction and twin-cam configuration.(Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
Decades later, this remarkable prototype was meticulously restored to its 1963 Brussels Motor Show configuration. The restoration process, undertaken with great care, preserved the car’s unique features, including its eye-catching green paint and coupé form. This effort not only revived its visual appeal but also honored the legacy of its creators.
The Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale's clean lines and dynamic proportions captured the spirit of innovation that defined Pininfarina’s approach. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
The Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale stands as a testament to Pininfarina's unparalleled vision and craftsmanship. Its transformation from Spider to Coupé is a story of adaptability and innovation, a reminder of how design can evolve while staying true to its core identity. Today, the restored prototype remains a celebrated symbol of creativity and a source of inspiration for automotive enthusiasts worldwide. *** [EKA | FROM VARIUS SOURCES | ULTIMATECARPAGE | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CURBSIDECLASSIC ]
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Legacy Resurrected - Mazda’s commitment to motorsport has always been a fascinating chapter in automotive history, blending innovation with a relentless pursuit of excellence. Among its most unique contributions is the Mazda 254i, a race car based on the RX-7 that has long been shrouded in mystery. Once forgotten, this exceptional vehicle has now reemerged, captivating enthusiasts with its story and craftsmanship.
A glimpse of the long-lost gem, the Mazda RX-7 254i, after its rediscovery in 2019 in Okayama. (Picture from: TheJapaneseNostalgicCar)
As quoted by TheJapaneseNostalgicCar, the Mazda 254i debuted at the 1982 24 Hours of Le Mans, marking the peak of Mazda's Group 5 endurance racing efforts. Two cars were entered in the race, reflecting years of development and lessons learned on the global motorsport stage.
The Mazda RX-7 254i made its debut at the 1982 24 Hours of Le Mans, marking the pinnacle of Mazda's Group 5 endurance racing efforts with two cars entered, showcasing years of development and experience gained on the global motorsport stage. (Picture from: TheJapaneseNostalgicCar)
The No. 82 car reached a significant milestone for Mazda, finishing 14th overall and overcoming the extreme challenges of Le Mans. Meanwhile, the No. 83 carshowed strong performance, reaching as high as 8th place before retiring mid-race due to mechanical issues.
One of the Mazda RX-7 254i cars that raced in the 1982 24 Hours of Le Mans was the No. 82 car, which finished 14th overall and overcame the extreme challenges of Le Mans. (Picture from: TheJapaneseNostalgicCar)
This marked the end of an era. That same year, the FIA introduced Group C, a new class of prototype racers, which shifted the focus of endurance racing. Mazda adapted quickly, introducing the 717C in 1983, and eventually achieved iconic status withthe Le Mans-winning 787B in 1991. As attention turned to these prototypes, the 254i faded into obscurity, its significance overshadowed by the evolving world of motorsport.
This is the Mazda RX-7 254i No. 83, which showed strong performance, reaching as high as 8th place at the 1982 24 Hours of Le Mans before retiring mid-race due to mechanical issues. (Picture from: TheJapaneseNostalgicCar)
Years later, one of the two 254i cars resurfaced in Japan, reigniting interest in this rare machine. Found in Okayama, a relatively remote prefecture, the car was confirmed as the No. 83 vehicle by Tachimoto-san, a former chief mechanic at Mazdaspeed. His expert analysis of its brake system and rear suspension, combined with historical records, authenticated the car’s origins. Despite its decades-long disappearance, the vehicle remained remarkably intact, making it the sole surviving example of Mazda’s Group 5 racers.
Beneath layers of paint, traces of its JSPC racing days were revealed, connecting it to the iconic black-and-gold Jun livery and its later pink appearance in Japanese endurance races.(Picture from: TheJapaneseNostalgicCar)
Following its rediscovery, the 254i underwent a painstaking restoration process. Powercraft, a renowned specialty shop in Gotemba, restored the car’s composite bodywork, ensuring every detail reflected its original form. Isami Amemiya, the celebrated figure behind RE Amemiya, took on the task of rebuilding its iconic 13B rotary engine. The car’s specifications highlight its engineering prowess, with the dual-rotor engine producing 300 PS and the vehicle’s lightweight design ensuring unparalleled performance for its time.
One of the late '70s/early '80s Group 5 and IMSA GTX cars, the Mazda RX-7 254i (Mooncraft) in its striking black-gold livery, with traces of which can still be seen on the rediscovered Mazda RX-7 254i. (Picture from: TheJapaneseNostalgicCar)
Further inspection revealed fascinating details about the car’s history. Underneath layers of paint, remnants of its JSPC racing days were uncovered, linking it to the striking black-and-gold Jun livery and its subsequent pink appearance in Japanese endurance races. These findings offered a deeper understanding of the car’s journey and cemented its place in Mazda’s storied motorsport history.
Another trace found under the paint on the rediscovered Mazda RX-7 254i is believed to be from the pink Mazda RX-7 254i (Mooncraft).(Picture from: TheJapaneseNostalgicCar)
Today, the restored Mazda 254i has become a celebrated artifact of racing culture, making appearances at historic motorsport events and exhibitions. Its sharp design, powerful rotary engine, and unmistakable livery capture the spirit of an era when Mazda defied expectations and forged its unique path in endurance racing. For both veteran fans and newcomers, the 254i serves as a reminder of Mazda’s ingenuity and determination.
The Mazdaspeed A-Spec body kit for the FD RX-7 inspired by the Group 5 RX-7 racer. (Picture from: TheJapaneseNostalgicCar)
The 254i’s revival has also inspired fresh interest in Mazda’s broader racing legacy. While the 787Bremains the brand’s most celebrated racer, the rediscovered 254i highlights the foundations of that success. It embodies the experimental spirit that defined Mazda’s early ventures into motorsport, bridging the gap between humble beginnings and ultimate triumphs.
As the Mazda 254i continues to draw attention, its story resonates with car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This rare vehicle isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of innovation, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between a manufacturer and its fans. The car’s journey from obscurity to restoration ensures that its legacy remains alive, celebrated, and admired for generations to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JAPANESENOSTALGICCAR | SECRET-CLASSIC | GTPLANET ]
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The legacy of the Owen Sedanca proves that, while mass production has dominated the automotive world, there will always be a place for the bespoke, the unique, and the extraordinary. In a world of increasingly standardized products, custom cars like the Sedanca remind us that luxury and individuality can never be replaced. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RITZSITE.NL | ARONLINE | WOLFRACE ]
