Exploring the World of Classic Cars: The Unique Alfa Romeo Astral

~Rare ONES~ Delving into the realm of unique classic cars on the internet is an exhilarating journey, akin to flipping through a treasure trove of automotive creativity from bygone eras. In our quest for rare gems, we stumbled upon a remarkable automotive masterpiece bearing the iconic Alfa Romeo emblem, hailing from the 1950s.

This is the second model of the Alfa Romeo 1900C 'Astral' Cabriolet made by Carrozzeria Boneschi which was later sold to Rafael Trujillo in 1954. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Enter the Alfa Romeo Astral, a name that might be unfamiliar to many contemporary automotive enthusiasts. Designed by the visionary Rodolfo Bonetto, this captivating creation found its roots on the chassis of the 1900C. In the year 1953, the illustrious Milanese coachbuilder, Boneschi, embarked on a mission to craft a spider version of the 1900C, intended for display at the prestigious Turin Motor Show. This creation was none other than the Alfa Romeo Astral, distinguished by its avant-garde design, which drew inspiration from the sleek aesthetics of American sedans.

The first model of the Alfa Romeo 1900C 'Astral' Cabriolet made by Carrozzeria Boneschi was first launched at the 1953 Turin Auto Show. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Carrozzeria Boneschi, once a prominent Italian body manufacturer, now exists solely as a revered brand. Established in 1919 by Giovanni Boneschi, the company was headquartered in Cambiago throughout its storied history. Astonishingly, only two units of this Italian coachbuilder's masterpiece, the Alfa Romeo Astral, ever rolled off the production line. One of them found its way into the possession of Rafael Trujillo, the dictator of the Dominican Republic, in 1954. Sadly, no further specimens were manufactured, and before long, Boneschi ceased its operations.

Indeed, the visual aesthetics of the Alfa Romeo 1900C, courtesy of Boneschi, have been met with mixed reviews from automotive connoisseurs. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Indeed, the visual aesthetics of the Alfa Romeo 1900C, courtesy of Boneschi, have been met with mixed reviews from automotive connoisseurs. Many have expressed surprise and curiosity upon encountering its peculiar design, a departure from the original donor car's aesthetic, particularly in terms of the front and side profiles.

At first glance, the front end takes on a distinctive elliptical form, conspicuously eschewing the conventional Alfa Romeo 1900C shield grille design that enthusiasts are accustomed to. In its stead, the elliptical grille takes center stage, flanked by two circular headlights and accentuated by a midline connecting two discreet turn signals on either side. Additionally, two air scoops are elegantly affixed atop the hood, adding to the overall allure. Intriguingly, examination of available images reveals a divergence, with one variant featuring the familiar Alfa Romeo shield at the center, while its counterpart does not.

The Alfa Romeo 1900C Astral Cabriolet by Boneschi' front end takes on a distinctive elliptical form, coupled with two air scoops are elegantly affixed atop the hood. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Simultaneously, the prominent elliptical shape at the front gracefully extends into an aerodynamic line that seamlessly melds with the front edge of the rear wheel arch. The design inspiration from American automobiles of that era is unmistakable, as evidenced by the pair of fins gracing the rear, not merely for aesthetic flair but to enhance aerodynamic performance and accentuate the futuristic theme.

As for the powerplant, it remains a subject of speculation whether any modifications or enhancements were made. In its standard configuration, the Alfa Romeo 1900C boasts a 1,975 cc DOHC inline four-cylinder engine, mated to Weber carburetors and a five-speed manual transmission system. The vehicle also showcases a specially designed independent front suspension featuring double A-arms, coil springs, and hydraulic shock absorbers. At the rear, a live-axle suspension with trailing links, coil springs, and hydraulic shock absorbers complements the setup. Four-wheel drum brakes round out the formidable package.

As the prominent elliptical shape at the front gracefully extends into an aerodynamic line that seamlessly melds with the front edge of the rear wheel arch. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

In retrospect, the Alfa Romeo Astral serves as a testament to the boundless creativity and innovation that graced the automotive landscape during the 1950s. Its unique blend of American-inspired aesthetics and Italian craftsmanship continues to captivate the hearts of automotive aficionados, reminding us that the allure of classic cars knows no bounds. While the Boneschi-produced Alfa Romeo Astral may not conform to conventional standards of beauty, it undeniably stands as a testament to the spirit of experimentation and artistic expression that defines classic automobiles. In a world where conformity often reigns supreme, such distinctive creations serve as a reminder that the road less traveled can yield remarkable results.

In closing, the Alfa Romeo Astral remains a rare gem in the annals of automotive history, a true testament to the ingenuity of its era. Its unconventional design, inspired by the American spirit of the time, has left an indelible mark, ensuring its place among the most unique classic cars ever conceived. As we continue our journey through the world of vintage automobiles, let the Alfa Romeo Astral serve as a reminder that beauty and innovation often reside in the unconventional and the unexpected. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | WIKIPEDIA | CARSTYLING.RU | SPORTSCARDIGEST | CAR.INFO ]

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Rusty Wrench's BMW R18: A Top Gun Tribute on Two Wheels

~Revving Up the Skies~ Designing a motorcycle with a movie-themed twist can be a challenging endeavor. Aligning the end result with a cinematic concept while maintaining functionality and style can often feel like swimming against the current. 

The BMW R18 Maverick custom built by Rusty Wrench drawing inspiration from the Hollywood blockbuster, "Top Gun: Maverick." (Picture from: BikeExif)

However, Rusty Wrench Motorcycles, a Portuguese modification house, has managed to pull off this daring feat brilliantly. Their masterpiece? A stunning transformation of a custom-built motorcycle called BMW R18 'Maverick', drawing inspiration from the Hollywood blockbuster "Top Gun: Maverick".

As quoted from BikeExif, the genesis of this remarkable project can be traced back to BMW Motorrad Portugal's local modification contest. The winning entrants were not only rewarded but also given the opportunity to bring their vision to life and represent the country at the prestigious BMW International R18 Customizing Championship.

Rusty Wrench meticulously handcrafted both the frame and the entire bodywork, giving the front section the distinctive appearance of a jet aircraft's nacelle. (Picture from: BikeExif)

Rusty Wrench Motorcycles, with their eyes set on aviation-themed aesthetics, selected "Top Gun: Maverick" as their muse. This choice paid off handsomely as they clinched victory in the competition with their innovative design.

The front end of the motorcycle was ingeniously designed to resemble the nacelle of a jet aircraft, featuring a KTM motorbike headlamp that seamlessly integrates with covers concealing the front suspension. (Picture from: BikeExif)

The journey began by stripping the BMW R18 down to its bare frame, removing nearly all of its bodywork, and leaving only the engine and suspension intact. Then, with meticulous craftsmanship, they reconstructed the entire frame and bodywork from scratch.

The BMW R18 'Maverick' features an Alcantara seat shell with eye-catching eyelets that serve both style and function. (Picture from: BikeExif)

The front end of the motorcycle was ingeniously designed to resemble the nacelle of a jet aircraft, featuring a KTM motorbike headlamp that seamlessly integrates with covers concealing the front suspension. The lower section boasts a fuselage-inspired cover, complete with an air scoop at the front and rows of dome-shaped fasteners on each side, emphasizing the aviation theme.

To complete the masterpiece, custom CNC machined badges commemorating BMW Motorrad's 100th anniversary were meticulously affixed, while 'Maverick' logos replaced the original engine emblems. (Picture from: BikeExif)

The cruiser-style fuel tank was discarded and replaced with one sporting a knee curve, reminiscent of the classic Yamaha XJR, giving the motorcycle a front-heavy appearance that gracefully tapers towards the tail. The subframe, cleverly hidden by being bolted directly to the center, features an Alcantara seat shell with eye-catching eyelets that serve both style and function.

Aluminum exhausts were fabricated, featuring end caps reminiscent of afterburners found on fighter jets. (Picture from: BikeExif)

While the R18's suspension remained untouched, Rusty Wrench opted for a wheel upgrade, swapping the rims for a set of 21-inch front and 18-inch rear alloys from BMW's Roland Sands collection. Dedicated foot controls were also added, positioned higher and further back to accommodate the increased seat height.

Rusty Wrench crafted new stainless steel headers, routing them up and over the BMW's massive exhaust pipes and beneath the redesigned tail section. (Picture from: BikeExif)

The one-piece seat upholstery complements the motorcycle's luxurious paint job, predominantly black with silver accents and subtle blue stripes. Additional styling details include a BMW x Roland Sands engine cover and taillights that mimic jet tail fins.

A particularly striking visual element is the exhaust system. Rusty Wrench crafted new stainless steel headers, routing them up and over the BMW's massive exhaust pipes and beneath the redesigned tail section. Aluminum exhausts were fabricated, featuring end caps reminiscent of afterburners found on fighter jets.

Rusty Wrench crafted new stainless steel headers, routing them up and over the BMW's massive exhaust pipes and beneath the redesigned tail section. (Picture from: BikeExif)

The handlebars, mounted on Roland Sands risers and equipped with Motogadget bar-ends, provide a comfortable yet stylish riding position. To preserve the R18's modern wiring, Rusty Wrench retained the OEM speedometer. Beyond the movie and aviation influences, the R18 by Rusty Wrench also exhibits a deep appreciation for luxury sports cars.

To add the finishing touches, custom CNC machined badges were meticulously installed. These emblems, celebrating BMW Motorrad's 100th anniversary, adorn each side of the tank, while the engine emblems were replaced with a pair of 'Maverick' logos.

What sets the R18 by Rusty Wrench apart from most 'themed' motorcycles is its seamless and cohesive design. Even without the Top Gun-inspired details, it remains visually appealing. Moreover, the revised ergonomics promise an even more enjoyable riding experience on the R18. Rusty Wrench Motorcycles has indeed crafted a masterpiece that transcends cinematic inspiration, delivering a motorcycle that is as breathtaking as it is functional.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops.... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BMW MOTORRAD PORTUGAL | RUSTYWRENCH | BIKEEXIF ]

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Ford's Ambitious Hypercar: The Unforgettable Ford GT90

~Special ONES~ Ford is a name synonymous with excellence in the automotive world, renowned for producing high-quality vehicles that have often emerged victorious in various motorsport championships. Among its legendary creations, the Ford GT40 stands tall as a symbol of dominance in endurance racing during the 1960s. In the spirit of innovation and performance, Ford conceived a remarkable successor known as the Ford GT90.

The magnificent creation of the Ford GT90 earned the title of "world's mightiest supercar" due to its cutting-edge technology and unmatched capabilities of the time. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

In January 1995, at the prestigious Detroit Auto Show, Ford unveiled a groundbreaking concept car, the Ford GT90. This magnificent creation earned the title of "world's mightiest supercar" due to its cutting-edge technology and unmatched capabilities of the time.

The Ford GT90 was not merely a concept car; it was envisioned as the spiritual heir to the iconic Ford GT40. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The Ford GT90 was not merely a concept car; it was envisioned as the spiritual heir to the iconic Ford GT40. Beyond this, it served as a crucible for testing advanced technology, technical and design concepts, and driver-centric features that would eventually find their way into future Ford models.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of the Ford GT90 was its pioneering use of the "New Edge" design concept, a design philosophy that would later grace subsequent Ford classics like the Ford Focus, Mustang, and Falcon, further solidifying its significance in Ford's history.

The Ford GT90 dazzled in a striking bright white hue, featured with a forward-positioned cabin with a short hood, complemented by a lengthy 2,946 mm wheelbase. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The creation of the Ford GT90 was an extraordinary feat achieved by a small, specialized group within Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) in just six months. This brief timeframe prompted the team to utilize certain components from Jaguar, a fellow member of the Ford family at the time. This collaboration was not only expedient but also cost-effective, although the Ford GT90 still came with a price tag of around 3 million US Dollars.

In terms of aesthetics, the Ford GT90 dazzled in a striking bright white hue. Staying true to the "New Edge" design philosophy, the car featured a forward-positioned cabin with a short hood, complemented by a lengthy 2,946 mm wheelbase. This design language gave the Ford GT90 an unmistakably futuristic and high-tech appearance.

The Ford GT90 cabin dominated with a vibrant bright blue theme, tastefully blending leather and suede, paired with an aluminum linkage connected to the center console, exuded a sporty and elegant vibe. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The body panels of the Ford GT90 were crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, while the aluminum monocoque chassis took on a honeycomb structure. Adding to the car's sophistication, the doors were electronically operated, and the interior boasted surprising spaciousness, a departure from the typically cramped cabins found in 1990s supercars.

Inside the Ford GT90, a vibrant bright blue theme dominated, tastefully blending leather and suede. The silver open-gated shifter, paired with an aluminum linkage connected to the center console, exuded a sporty and elegant vibe. The carbon fiber center console, adorned with silver accents, further elevated the interior's appeal. A custom instrument panel, strategically positioned in front of the steering wheel and on the driver's door, contributed to the overall allure, with a yellow triangular detail on the steering wheel providing a delightful finishing touch.

The Ford GT90 powered by a monstrous 6,000cc 12-cylinder V12 engine, a fusion of two Lincoln V8 engines, coupled with four Garrett Systems T2 turbo units. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

Performance was where the Ford GT90 truly shone. Under the hood, it housed a monstrous 6,000cc 12-cylinder V12 engine, a fusion of two Lincoln V8 engines. Taking power to the next level, this V12 powerhouse was augmented by four Garrett Systems T2 turbo units, resulting in an astonishing 720 ponies and a torque of 895 Nm.

All this immense power was channeled to the rear wheels, thanks to the Ford GT90's MR (Mid Engine, Rear Wheel Drive) layout. The rear-wheel drive system was managed by the FFD-Ricardo five-speed manual transmission gearbox, sourced from the Jaguar XJ220. The outcome? A jaw-dropping top speed of 407 km/h and the ability to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.1 seconds. To handle such power, the Ford GT90 was equipped with a double wishbone suspension, borrowed once again from the Jaguar XJ220, renowned for its exceptional high-speed handling.

Despite the Ford GT90's awe-inspiring concept and its suitability as a successor to the Ford GT40, Ford made a surprising decision not to put it into production. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

Despite the Ford GT90's awe-inspiring concept and its suitability as a successor to the Ford GT40, Ford made a surprising decision not to put it into production. Instead, they introduced the Ford GT in 2004 as the true successor to the Ford GT40.

As for the Ford GT90, there exists only one in the entire world, and its fate remains shrouded in mystery. In 2009, the automotive world caught a glimpse of it once more when the Ford GT90 made a rare appearance at an RM Auction event, leaving car enthusiasts and collectors in awe of its legendary status.

In the annals of automotive history, the Ford GT90 remains a testament to Ford's relentless pursuit of innovation and performance. Though it never graced the open road as a production vehicle, its legacy endures, a symbol of what could have been—an extraordinary hypercar that pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering and design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HEMMINGS | CONCEPTCARZ | ROAD&TRACK | DRIVINGLINE | WIKIPEDIA ]

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Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage: A Masterpiece of Tribute

~Special ONES~ In the realm of automotive enthusiasts, the Lamborghini Miura P400SV often garners accolades as the epitome of beauty and elegance to ever roll out of the renowned Italian car manufacturer based in Sant'Agata Bolognese. With its graceful curves and captivating agility, it's hailed by many as a timeless masterpiece. Thus, it comes as no surprise that its automaker company Automobili Lamborghini, on the 50th anniversary of the Miura's inception in 2016, paid a special tribute to this iconic car.

The Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage appeared in Rosso Arancio with gold coating Dione alloy 21" wheels, debuted at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2016. (Picture from: TheVerge)

Enter the Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage, a limited edition masterpiece, with only 50 units gracing select markets across the globe. These exclusive automobiles were allocated to discerning buyers who successfully navigated a rigorous selection process, and unsurprisingly, most of them have found their lucky owners.

The Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage will be rarer than the car it honors with only 50 units ever made. (Picture from: OtoSpirit)

The Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage owes its existence to the skilled artisans at the Lamborghini Ad Personam studio. Built upon the foundation of the Lamborghini Aventador, this exquisite creation was unveiled at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed 2016. The philosophy behind its creation was to pay homage to the original 1966 Miura in a manner that truly captures its spirit.

The Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage owes its existence to the skilled artisans at the Lamborghini Ad Personam studio. (Picture from: OtoSpirit)

Notably, the top portion of the Aventador Miura Homage's body can be adorned with a palette of 18 vibrant solid and metallic colors. Among these are Rosso Arancio (red), Verde Scandal (green), Blu Tahiti (blue), and more. Meanwhile, the lower body and side sills are treated to contrasting paint, accentuating its striking appearance. The Dione alloy wheels, available in silver or gold finish, further enhance its visual appeal.

The Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage's side proudly displayed with a Miura 50th-anniversary badge, serving as a constant reminder of its heritage. (Picture from: OtoSpirit)

On closer inspection, you'll find a Miura 50th-anniversary badge proudly displayed, serving as a constant reminder of its heritage. Inside the cabin, a choice of two-tone colors with 'Miura 50th' stitching adorns the supple leather, perfectly echoing the aesthetics of the original masterpiece. Now, let's delve into the mechanical heart of this extraordinary beast.

Interior view of Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage for Hong Kong adorned with two-tone colors with 'Miura 50th' stitching adorns the supple leather. (Picture from: Motor1)

 Under the Aventador Miura Homage's sculpted hood resides a 6.5-liter V12 engine that defies the ordinary. This powerplant boasts an astounding 700 horsepower at 8,250 rpm, paired with a maximum torque of 690 Nm at 5,500 rpm—a substantial leap from the original's P400SV variant, which produced a modest 380 horsepower. With this powerhouse at its disposal, the Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage catapults from a standstill to 100 kph in a mere 2.9 seconds and achieves a blistering top speed of 350 kph.

The Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage for Hong Kong in Verde Scandal with silver coating Dione alloy 21" wheels graces the market with a price of HK $8 million. (Picture from: Motor1)

Now, the question that inevitably arises: How much does this piece of automotive artistry cost? Well, as you might expect, it commands a hefty price tag. For instance, an Aventador Miura Homage destined for Hong Kong graces the market with a price of HK $8 million, roughly equivalent to Rp. 13 billion. 

While it's undeniably a substantial sum, it represents an enticing proposition when compared to the astronomical prices of an original Miura, which can easily reach up to $3 million. And let's not forget, these two cars share more than just Racing Bull emblem; they share a legacy that defines the very essence of automotive excellence. *** [EKA [01072016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LAMBORGHINI | THE VERGE | MOTOR1 ]

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BMW's M-Series Concept Car Saga From 1972 to Date

~Unique ONES~ In 1972, BMW unveiled a groundbreaking automotive creation, the BMW E25 Turbo Concept. This innovative vehicle was designed to celebrate the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich and was the brainchild of the talented French designer Paul Bracq. The E25 Turbo Concept featured distinctive gullwing doors and was constructed on a modified 2002 chassis, boasting a mid-mounted engine.

Legends meeting at Lake Como in 2008: BMW M1 Hommage, BMW M1 und BMW Turbo. (Picture from: BMW)

Little did the world know that this concept car would eventually pave the way for the iconic BMW M1, which was introduced six years later in 1978. The BMW M1, with its body code E26, holds a special place in the heart of automotive enthusiasts as it remains the only car dedicated solely to the BMW ///M (Motorsport) division, renowned for its high-performance vehicles.

1972 BMW E25 Turbo Concept is built on a BMW 2002 modified chassis also powered by a 2,000 cc 4-cylinder engine. (Picture from: Motor1)

Interestingly, the BMW M1 wasn't a product solely crafted by BMW. Instead, it was the result of a collaborative effort between BMW, Italdesign, and Lamborghini. This unique partnership birthed a sports car that left an indelible mark on the world of high-performance automobiles in limited numbers of only 453 units.

The BMW M1 featured with E26 body code, holds a special place in the heart of enthusiasts as it remains the only car dedicated solely to the BMW ///M (Motorsport) division, renowned for its high-performance vehicles. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Fast forward to 2008, and BMW enthusiasts were treated to another spectacular creation – the BMW M1 Hommage. This supercar concept was conceived by the BMW Group Design division to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the BMW M1's existence. The BMW M1 Hommage served as a testament to the exceptional competence, creativity, and potential of the BMW Group Design team.

The BMW M1 Hommage was conceived by the BMW Group Design division to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the BMW M1's existence. (Picture from: BMW)

This concept car seamlessly blended emotional design with cutting-edge technological innovation, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing masterpiece. Its futuristic design, characterized by bold contours on the sleek body, instantly appealed to speed enthusiasts worldwide. The elongated engine compartment, the well-defined transition into the A pillar, and the gracefully extending window line terminating in a "Hofmeister" arch all contributed to its unmistakable BMW identity. The horizontal lines running through the car gave the impression of a lower center of gravity, ensuring maximum control for the driver.

BMW’s M performance car division is developed the BMW Vision M NEXT, a two-seater plug-in hybrid coupe known as long sought-after successor to the 41-year-old M1 supercar. (Picture from: Autocar)

Several iconic elements from the original BMW M1 design were retained, including the distinctive air vents on the hood, the rear window grille, and the black cutting line that elegantly separated the roof from the rear. Unfortunately, the M1 Hommage never made it to mass production; it remained a tantalizing concept, a glimpse into what could have been. Around four years ago, in 2019, BMW teased its dedicated fan base with the BMW Vision M Next. Regrettably, this exciting project never materialized due to constrained development costs.

With the introduction of electric car models like the BMW Vision Neue Klasse into their production lineup, BMW has definitively concluded the era of conventional internal combustion engined vehicles. (Picture from: TopGear)

Beside that the dreams of equipping the supercar concept with a powerful V8, V10, or V12 petrol engine seem distant, given BMW's official decision to discontinue conventional internal combustion engines in 2022. Moreover, petrol-powered vehicles are facing extinction as automotive manufacturers, not limited to BMW, invest heavily in the development of electric vehicles to meet sustainability goals, especially considering BMW's recent unveiling of the BMW Vision Neue Klasse, a symbol of futuristic aesthetics defining the electric vehicles of tomorrow.

With its striking appearance, BMW has taken a bold step toward shaping the future of sustainable and visually captivating transportation. The automotive world eagerly awaits to witness the evolution of BMW's design philosophy and the electrifying innovations that will redefine our driving experience. What are your thoughts on this exciting journey into the BMW future? *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BMW | WIKIPEDIA | ]

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Miura: The Most Valuable and Prettiest Raging Bull Sports Car Ever

~Most Valuable ONES~ Perhaps some of you may not be as familiar with the classic Lamborghini Miura as you are with newer models like the Huracán, Aventador, or Gallardo. Yet, the Lamborghini Miura can be hailed as the trailblazer for the stunning sports cars bearing the iconic Raging Bull emblem. Its debut on the public stage occurred at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show, though the chassis had already made its presence known in 1965. What's the captivating tale behind this beauty? Let's dive into the narrative.

1966 Lamborghini P400 Prototipo. (Picture from: Supercars.net)

The inception of Automobili Lamborghini in Sant'Agata Bolognese boasts a unique origin story. It's widely recounted that it all began when Ferruccio Lamborghini expressed dissatisfaction with the clutch of his Ferrari 250 GTE, leading to a grievance lodged with Enzo Ferrari himself. As time unfurled, in 1963, Ferruccio Lamborghini ventured into the realm of automobile manufacturing, birthing his own car company. Success swiftly followed with the production of the 350 GT and 400 GT coupes in 1964, marking the inception of this Italian company's journey towards becoming a renowned automaker.

The P400 lightweight chassis made of 1965, ready to house a 3.9-liter V12 engine. (Picture from: Suara)

In 1965, as part of their relentless pursuit of innovation, Lamborghini unveiled a new model. The design and engineering team, all in their late twenties, spearheaded this venture. Chief engineer Gian Paolo Dallara was brimming with enthusiasm to create an innovative vehicle that would cement Lamborghini's legacy in the competitive world of automotive manufacturing. Initially known as project P400, which translates to "4-liter rear-drive engine" in Italian, this car was built on a robust yet lightweight chassis, ready to house a 3.9-liter V12 engine, identical to the one employed in the Lamborghini 400 GT.

1968 Lamborhini Miura P400. (Picture from: MotorTrend)

The new car necessitated a mid-mounted engine with a low-slung profile, graced by the visionary styling of Bertone's Marcello Gandini. The culmination of their efforts resulted in the Lamborghini Miura, unveiled in all its glory at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show. It boasted a 350-horsepower 4.0-liter V12 engine, designed by Giotto Bizzarrini and ingeniously mounted transversely. The front and rear decks, crafted from aluminum, opened with a clamshell-like grace.

Interior view of  Lamborghini Miura P400. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Inside, steeply reclined seats nestled behind a stylish two-pod instrument panel adorned with additional gauges in the center stack. Thus, the Miura P400 came into existence. The journey continued with the Miura P400S in 1968, enhancing interior quality, revamping the rear suspension, and boosting horsepower by 20, bringing the total to 370 horses.

1969 Lamborhini Miura P400S. (Picture from: Suara)

In 1971, the Miura P400SV made its entrance, initially as a special order car. This edition featured widened rear fenders to accommodate bulkier 15-inch rims and tires, redesigned taillights, a fresh nose design, and a power bump to 385 horsepower. The broader rear track, along with structural chassis reinforcement, rendered the Miura SV exceptionally capable, boasting a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds and a top speed of around 180 mph – bona fide supercar figures of its era. The Miura's production run came to a close in 1973, making way for the radical new Countach, which reached its final form the following year.

1971 Lamborghini Miura P400SV. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Although Ferruccio Lamborghini never formalized plans to race the Miura, the renowned test driver Bob Wallace played a pivotal role in developing the Miura P400 Jota, a prototype designed to meet FIA motorsport regulations. The Jota featured an all-aluminum chassis and body for significant weight savings, while the V12 engine was tuned to produce over 400 horsepower at nearly 9,000 rpm. Notable body enhancements included a front spoiler, fixed headlights with fairings, and substantial suspension modifications.

1970 Lamborghini Miura P400 Jota built based of Miura's chassis #5084. (Picture from: SupercarNostalgia)

While there were no intentions to enter this vehicle into competition, word quickly spread about this factory-made race car. Six Lamborghini enthusiasts ordered cars in the spirit of the Jota, known as the Miura SV/J, directly from the factory. It's worth noting that Lamborghini later converted several more Miuras into SV/J specifications. Additionally, one prototype of the Miura P400 Roadster, Bertone's concept car, still exists today. Hence, it was unsurprising when a special Lamborghini model resurfaced as a tribute to the Miura in 2016. 

1972 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV/J. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)

In terms of price, the most expensive Lamborghini Miura, the final unit produced in 1971, can command around 2.5 million US dollars or approximately Rp. 36.25 billion (as of 2018). In 2022, a British insurance company, Confused, named the venerable Lamborghini Miura sports car as the most valuable classic car, surpassing legendary classics like the Ferrari F40, Ferrari 250 GTO, and others.

1968 Lamborhini Miura P400 Roadster. (Picture from: DrivingLine)

Confused utilized a unique calculation method for this determination, considering around 2,000 classic cars that have left an indelible mark on the global automotive industry. The assessment spanned from 2019 to 2022, examining factors such as production numbers, car prices in May 2019, current car prices, and Google search volumes for car names.

From this comprehensive assessment, the Lamborghini Miura was declared the most valuable classic car, securing the top spot in the ranking. The Ferrari F40, the last car personally approved by Enzo Ferrari, narrowly trailed behind the Miura. The Lamborghini Miura's enduring allure stems from its revolutionary design and performance, making it an everlasting symbol of Italian automotive prowess. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LAMBORGHINI | SUPERCARS.NET | MOTORTREND | STUFF ]

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