Resilient Elegance - There’s something timeless about the hum of a scooter weaving through narrow streets, a symbol of freedom that feels both practical and poetic. When people talk about scooters, the conversation almost inevitably drifts toward Italy—a country where design meets daily life in the most effortless way. Yet beyond the familiar names that dominate the narrative, there are lesser-known stories waiting to be rediscovered, including the intriguing chapter of seeing the MV Agusta scooter existences emerge from an unexpected place.
The 1946 MV Agusta 98 Motorcarro was the company’s first three-wheeled vehicle, created during its early move into ground transportation. (Picture from: Oto)
Italy’s relationship with scooters didn’t happen by accident. In the years following World War II, the country needed affordable, efficient transportation for a population rebuilding its everyday life. While companies likePiaggioandInnocentiled the movement, they were far from alone. Several manufacturers—some better known for entirely different types of machines—entered the scooter scene, each contributing its own interpretation of mobility during a time of urgency and innovation.
The 1949 MV Agusta 125 A. (Picture from: Pinterest)
Among those names was MV Agusta, a brand now widely associated with high-performance motorcycles and striking design. Today, enthusiasts often picture sleek sport bikes when hearing the name, but that image only tells part of the story. Long before becoming a symbol of speed and engineering precision, MV Agusta had to adapt to a very different reality—one shaped by post-war limitations and shifting industrial demands.
The 1949 MV Agusta 125 B. (Picture from: Pinterest)
The company’s origins trace back to the early 20th century, when Count Giovanni Agusta founded an aviation business driven by a passion for flight. However, after the war, Italy faced strict restrictions on aircraft production. For aviation companies like Agusta, survival meant reinvention. The solution was diversification, and for many, that meant entering the world of lightweight, accessible transportation—specifically scooters.
In 1945, MV Agusta formally stepped into this new direction by establishing Meccaniche Verghera, marking a pivotal shift in its identity. The company’s first efforts focused on three-wheeled vehicles, withthe MV 98 Motorcarroappearing in 1946. Interestingly, it was initially intended to carry a different name, but circumstances led to a last-minute change. Even at this early stage, the company demonstrated an ability to adapt quickly—something that would define its scooter journey as well.
By 1949, MV Agusta introduced its first scooters, the 125 Aand laterthe 125 B.Both models featured 125cc two-stroke engines paired with four-speed manual .transmissions, reflecting the practical engineering priorities of the era. These scooters were not just machines; they were solutions—built to meet the growing demand for reliable and affordable mobility in a recovering society.
The 1950s saw further refinement with models likethe CSL (C Super Lusso), which brought more sophistication to MV Agusta’s scooter lineup. Its design combined a tubular step-through frame with pressed steel panels, creating a structure that was both sturdy and visually balanced.The engineering details were equally thoughtful, including a forced air cooling system that channeled airflow through the foot platform to keep the engine temperature in check. With a 123cc single-cylinder two-stroke engine producing around 5 horsepower, it delivered modest yet dependable performance.
Another notable addition wasthe CGT series, offered with 125cc and 150cc engine options. Like its predecessors, it retained a four-speed manual transmission, emphasizing control and durability over complexity. Production numbers were relatively limited, which today adds to their rarity and historical charm. These scooters weren’t mass-market giants, but they played a meaningful role in expanding MV Agusta’s reach during a transformative period.
Perhaps the most iconic of all MV Agusta scooters wasthe Chicco, produced between 1960 and 1963. With only a little over 3,000 units made, it remains a rare and distinctive piece of design history. Its curved bodywork echoed the aesthetic language of classic Italian scooters, blending elegance with simplicity. Powered by a 155cc two-stroke engine and capable of reaching speeds of around 75 km/h, the Chicco represented a mature expression of MV Agusta’s scooter philosophy—functional, stylish, and unmistakably Italian.
Rare photo of the MV Agusta 'BIK' scooter, a one-piece pressed steel machine as far as we know. (Picture from: ScooterLab)
Interestingly, the story doesn’t end neatly with the Chicco. There were plans for a successor known as the BIK,which was expected to feature a more advanced 165cc four-stroke engine with semi-hydraulic tappets. It hinted at a new direction, potentially aligning with evolving technology and rider expectations. Yet, for reasons that remain unclear, the project never reached production, leaving behind only speculation and a sense of what might have been.
Looking back today, the existence of MV Agusta scooters feels like a hidden layer beneath the brand’s modern identity. It reveals a company shaped not only by ambition and performance, but also by resilience and necessity. These scooters stand as reminders of a time when even the most specialized manufacturers had to rethink their purpose—creating machines that weren’t just admired, but truly needed.
Visionary Obsession- In the world of supercars, where style and speed often compete for attention, there's something irresistible about a car that dares to break the mold entirely. It’s not every day that a company like Ferrari throws all rules out the window and builds something so radical, so personal, that it only exists as a one-off creation. Yet, that’s exactly what happened with the birth of the Ferrari P80/C—a bold vision brought to life through passion, precision, and an unshakable love for automotive excellence.
The most extreme Ferrari's one-off supercar ever designed called Ferrari P80/C. (Picture from: TopGear)
This remarkable vehicle is not just another Ferrari. It’s a dream carved into carbon fiber. Behind its creation lies a close collaboration between Ferrari’s Stilo Centro design house, led by the brilliant Flavio Manzoni, and a client who’s more than just a wealthy collector. This client grew up surrounded by the roar of Ferrari engines and the elegance of their curves. He's someone whose knowledge and emotional connection to Ferrari made him the perfect partner for such an intimate and imaginative journey. The result? A car with a soul as unique as its silhouette.
Final design sketch of the one-off Ferrari P80/C. (Picture from: CintaMobil)
What sets the P80/C apart isn’t just its exclusivity, but the purpose behind it. Built solely as a track car, the P80/C still echoes Ferrari’s most iconic road models. The client envisioned a modern interpretation of historic racing legends like the Ferrari 330 P3/P4 and the 1966 Dino 206 S. That vision gave Ferrari's team the green light to move far beyond standard design limits. The task was clear: create a completely new type of Ferrari—a prototype unlike anything before it.
Ferrari P80/C is a new ride four years in the making, built for one unnamed collector for an undisclosed price. (Picture from: CTVNews)
The foundation of the P80/C rests on the proven bones of the 488 GT3. Not only was this choice essential for performance, but it also allowed Ferrari's designers to play with proportions and lines. The wheelbase is 50mm longer than the 488 GTB, offering more freedom to stretch the rear and push the cabin forward. This change alone dramatically shifted the car’s personality, giving it a compact, razor-sharp presence on the track.
Front-left side view of one-off Ferrari P80/C. (Picture from: Evo.co.uk)
Look at it from above, and the shape reveals its secret: wider at the front, tapering inward with dramatic force. The C-pillars don’t just hold structure—they make a statement. Detached from the roof, they cradle the intake funnels while forming a channel that slices through to the engine cover. The bodyline is clean, confident, and designed to turn heads before the engine even starts.
Interior view of one-off Ferrari P80/C.(Picture from: Evo.co.uk)
The P80/C also wears two identities. In one mode, it's fitted for the racetrack—complete with 18-inch single-nut wheels and aggressive carbon-fiber aero elements that scream performance. In its alternate form, the car dons 21-inch wheels with no extra aerodynamic hardware, stripping it back to pure, sculptural beauty. Both configurations reflect the car’s dual purpose: art in motion, and a machine bred to perform.
Although crafted entirely from carbon fiber, the car’s aesthetic goes far beyond raw materials. Most of the body is painted in a deep, radiant red called Rosso Vero—a color selected personally by the client, another nod to his intimate connection with the project. The bare carbon is only exposed in areas with precise technical function, letting the painted surfaces dominate the visual presence.
Rear down view of one-off Ferrari P80/C.(Picture from: Evo.co.uk)
Even the rear of the car is a masterclass in creative engineering. The design hints at a catamaran layout, leaving parts of the structure uncovered to serve both visual and cooling purposes. A large rear diffuser practically hovers beneath the tail, while the concave rear glass and aluminum grille channel the spirit of the classic 330 P3/P4, cementing the P80/C’s identity as a love letter to Ferrari’s racing heritage. Step inside, and the atmosphere is all business. The interior echoes its GT3 roots, complete with integrated roll cage and a minimalistic focus on performance. Yet, it still carries subtle refinements—the redesigned dashboard, the custom door panels, and the exposed carbon accents all work together without adding unnecessary weight.
After years in development—it began in 2015—the P80/C stands today as Ferrari’s longest-ever one-off project. It’s not just a car; it’s the result of patience, passion, and precision engineering taken to its most artistic level. And it exists because someone dared to dream, and Ferrari chose to listen.
The P80/C isn’t meant for public roads, but its story will inspire those who admire the power of creativity, collaboration, and craftsmanship. It's a reminder that even in a world of limited editions and exclusive models, there’s still room for something truly original. And sometimes, the greatest Ferraris are the ones that are built just once. *** [EKA [28042019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TOFM | CTV NEWS | TOP GEAR | EVO ] Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Moving Artistry - In a world where automotive design often oscillates between nostalgia and futurism, there are a few creations that manage to merge both realms into a single breathtaking form. One such masterpiece is the Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas — a name that sounds like poetry even before one lays eyes on the car itself. It is not merely a concept; it’s a declaration of how Italian craftsmanship continues to shape the language of speed, style, and imagination.
Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas concept car has been debuted and shown off at the Geneva International Motor Show 2019.(Picture from: Motor1)
The Almas was born from a collaboration between two figures who understand the emotional depth of design: Umberto Palermo, the visionary mind behind UP Design, and Paolo Scudieri, president of Italy’s Adler Group. Their partnership represents the meeting of artistic intuition and engineering precision — Palermo’s passion for sculptural beauty fusing seamlessly with Scudieri’s mastery of advanced materials and production innovation. Adler, notably, also supplies the carbon tub chassis for the Alfa Romeo 4C, an automotive icon in its own right. Together, they ventured beyond conventional design, creating something that feels both futuristic and deeply Italian in spirit. (Wanna see the first joint project of those two companies above.)
Front three quarter of the Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas concept car.(Picture from: Motor1)
When the Almas made its public debut at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show, it instantly turned heads — not just for its audacious aesthetics, but for what it symbolized: a renewed confidence in handcrafted automotive art. Its body is a mesmerizing interplay of red carbon fiber and a matte black roof, creating a visual tension that’s as elegant as it is aggressive. Built upon a carbon chassis developed by Adler, the car exudes an aura of strength without sacrificing lightness. The sweeping lines and sharp contours seem to move even when the car is still — an intentional illusion that captures the essence of Italian performance design.
Left side view of the Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas concept car.(Picture from: Motor1)
The front fascia commands presence with a large grille that proudly centers a polished chrome emblem, flanked by sleek LED headlights and discreet air intakes. From the side, the Almas adopts a dramatic silhouette defined by angular windows, muscular shoulders, and robust B-pillars that suggest stability within its aerodynamic form. At the rear, the design continues its bold narrative: a sculpted engine cover, quad tailpipes, and a confident diffuser framed by taillights reminiscent of the Lexus LC — though rendered here with a uniquely Italian flair. Every line has purpose; every surface tells a story.
Rear three quarter of the Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas concept car. (Picture from: Motor1)
Inside, Mole Automobile promises a cabin that pairs luxury with innovation — an environment crafted from advanced materials and infused with the latest in telematics and safety systems. It’s a vision of comfort that refuses to compromise on technology, demonstrating how design and digital intelligence can coexist harmoniously. The Almasis envisioned as a grand tourer, measuring 4,730 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width, and 1,218 mm in height — dimensions that suggest poise, proportion, and presence.
Perhaps most intriguing is the powertrain philosophy behind it. Whilethe Almascould adopt a hydrogen-based propulsion system, the company has also hinted at a version driven by a traditional petrol engine — a nod to the visceral connection many enthusiasts still crave. That flexibility suggests that the Almas is not simply a static design exercise but a platform of ideas, open to evolution as technology and taste advance.
For now, the Almas remains a concept — a vision waiting for its full expression. Yet even in its conceptual form, it has achieved something rare: it rekindles excitement for the future of coachbuilt cars in an era dominated by mass production and automation. It reminds us that the essence of Italian design has always been about more than performance figures or power output. It’s about the soul embedded in the metal, the dialogue between tradition and innovation, and the pursuit of beauty for its own sake.
If the Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas ever makes its way to the roads, it won’t just be another exotic car — it will be a symbol of what happens when imagination, craftsmanship, and daring ambition align. Until that moment, it stands as a modern-day sculpture in motion, an eloquent whisper from Italy’s golden lineage of automotive artistry, and a reminder that dreams, when shaped by the right hands, can indeed take form in carbon and chrome. As closing, here's another car that was previously made similar to Almasand designed also by UP Design in 2015. *** [EKA [10042019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOLE AUTOMOBILES | GIMS | MOTOR1 | TOP SPEED | MOTORING | CARSCOOPS]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Unfortunate Brilliance - When it comes to turning automotive dreams into reality, few names inspire as much reverence as Ferrari. From the classic curves of the 288 GTO to the aggressive silhouette of the F40, Ferrari has consistently delivered some of the most iconic supercars in history. You might still recall recent masterpieces from Ferrari’s bespoke division—like the SP1 and SP2 speedsters or the one-off P80/C—but what we’re about to talk about is something entirely different. Imagine a machine that doesn't just take inspiration from those legends, but fuses their DNA into a single, breathtaking creation. That’s exactly what the Ferrari GTO Vision set out to be.
The Ferrari GTO Vision by 7X Design. (Picture from: Zero2Turbo)
The Ferrari GTO Vision isn’t just a modern car with a vintage soul. It’s a striking tribute that bridges generations of Ferrari excellence. Originally born as a Ferrari 488 GTB, this car underwent a complete transformation under the hands of 7X Design, an automotive design house known for pushing the limits of imagination and craftsmanship. Their goal was simple but ambitious: to create a unique Ferrari that pays homage to the past while embracing the future.
The Ferrari 288 GTO (Type F114) is one of the homologation car model ranging built from 1984 to 1987 and only 272 units ever made during its production periods. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
At first glance, the GTO Vision instantly stands out. Nearly every panel of the original 488 GTB has been stripped away and replaced with a sleek, new body made entirely from carbon fiber. This not only dramatically changes the car’s appearance, but also keeps its weight impressively low. The design language flows with the elegance of the 288 GTO and the raw appeal of the F40, blending seamlessly with elements borrowed from modern Ferrari track beasts like the FXX K and the F12 Berlinetta.
Front three quarter view of the Ferrari GTO Vision by 7X Design.(Picture from: 7XDesign)
One of the most eye-catching features is the dual winglets at the rear—clearly a nod to Ferrari’s extreme performance models—while the diffuser and rear bumper bring in the muscular stance reminiscent ofthe F12 Berlinetta. Even the engine cover echoesthe legendary F40, while the front is framed with sharp, double headlights inspired bythe 288 GTO. These cues aren’t just copied—they’re reinvented with modern flair and exquisite detail.
Rear side view of the Ferrari GTO Vision by 7X Design. (Picture from: 7XDesign)
But 7X Design didn’t stop at aesthetics. Every line, vent, and panel on the GTO Vision is deliberate. New wheels, crafted specifically for this car, support the visual transformation, while clever design touches—like the floating body elements—highlight the thought and engineering poured into this build. Details such as the rear slats behind the wheels throw back tothe 288 GTO era, and the wide rear tires give it that unmistakable 1980s supercar drama. There’s even a playful twist in the Ferrari badge up front, which doubles as the trunk release—a small but charming surprise.
Despite its dazzling looks and technical execution, the GTO Vision's journey wasn't without bumps in the road. Initially launched with the promise of availability for 488 GTB and F8 Tributo owners, 7X Design offered the transformation for around €1.8 million—though early adopters were offered a lower price tag. Each build was expected to take six to nine months, and customization options meant the final cost could go even higher. However, Ferrari themselves didn’t officially sanction the project. That lack of approval led to the model being banned, adding a bittersweet twist to its otherwise glorious story.
Still, the Ferrari GTO Vision leaves behind a powerful impression. It shows what can happen when creativity meets craftsmanship, and when homage to the past is fused with the possibilities of modern automotive design. It might never wear the official badge of approval from Maranello, but for enthusiasts, it’s a reminder that passion often drives the most unforgettable creations—especially when it’s riding on four wheels and roars with the heart of a prancing horse. *** [EKA [07072019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | 7X DESIGN | MOTOR1 | ZERO2TURBO ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Fearless Reinvention - When it comes to sports cars, we often think of familiar names like Ferrari, Porsche, or McLaren. But beyond the well-known giants, the automotive world occasionally surprises us with something refreshingly different — a bold, unexpected comeback from a small player with big ambitions. This time, the spotlight shines on Bolwell, a niche Australian manufacturer that has quietly built a legacy over decades and is now gearing up for a remarkable return. Though its name may not ring many bells today, Bolwell is no stranger to the performance car scene — and its next move could make enthusiasts around the world take notice.
1970 Bolwell Mk VIII Nagari, the first car built by Bolwell Corporation. (Picture from: Motor-Car)
The Bolwell Car Company story began in 1962 when Graeme Bolwell and Ross McConnell set out to build lightweight sports cars, initially offering them in kit form. Things shifted into a higher gear in 1970 when they introduced the Bolwell Mk VIII Nagari — a full-bodied sports car powered by a robust Ford V8. With around 100 coupes and 18 convertibles produced before the model was retired in 1974, the Nagari quickly earned a reputation for being fast, fun, and uniquely Australian.
Decades later, in 2008, the company made an ambitious comeback with the Bolwell Mk X Nagari (also known as the Nagari 300). This time, they used a Toyota-sourced 3.5-liter V6 engine and kept the car feather-light at just 920 kg. However, despite the strong effort, the Nagari 300 struggled to find its footing in the competitive global market and eventually faded out of the spotlight.
2008 Bolwell Nagari 300 featured a Toyota's 3.5 l V6 engine. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
But Bolwell wasn’t done. After years of silence, the brand reemerged with news that stirred excitement — the third-generation Nagari was on its way. Titled the Bolwell Nagari 500, this new model promised a fresh design, modern performance features, and a clear break from its predecessor. According to Bolwell Director Campbell Bolwell, the Nagari 500 had already been in development for over three years by the time it was announced. While it carries the Nagari name, it shares no mechanical components with the Nagari 300.
What makes the Nagari 500 truly compelling is its commitment to cutting-edge engineering. Bolwell has created a completely new platform featuring a composite tub made from carbon fiber and Kevlar, designed to keep weight impressively low — under 2,200 lbs. That’s supercar territory in terms of weight, and it sets the stage for serious performance.
2008 Bolwell Nagari 300 has a fairly light weight of only 920 kg.(Picture from: MotorAuthority)
At its core sits a Chevrolet-sourced 6.2-liter naturally aspirated LS3 V8 engine, mounted midship and tuned to crank out a hefty 500 horsepower. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission sending all that muscle to the rear wheels — a setup sure to please driving purists who crave connection with the road.
Backing up the powertrain are high-performance components including adaptive dampers for improved handling, Brembo brakes with carbon-ceramic rotors for serious stopping power, and supportive Recaro seats to keep the driver in place through corners. And while it's built with performance in mind, the Nagari 500 doesn’t skimp on modern conveniences. Expect an 8.0-inch infotainment display, digital gauges, keyless entry, and a push-button start — enough tech to keep drivers comfortable without distracting from the car’s real focus.
Campbell Bolwell designed and built his first car before he even had a licence to drive one. (Picture from: ABC.net.au)
The official unveiling of the Nagari 500 was scheduled for the 2019 Motorclassica in Melbourne — a fitting tribute to the 50th anniversary of the original Mk VIII Nagari. Bolwell’s production strategy is clear: keep it exclusive. Just 25 units are planned to be built each year, though that number could grow if demand rises, particularly from expanding markets in Asia.
With the Nagari 500, Bolwell isn’t just reviving a name — it’s reigniting a dream. This car represents more than horsepower and lightweight materials; it’s a symbol of passion, resilience, and the kind of quiet determination that can still shake up the sports car world. For those who love the spirit of driving and admire automotive craftsmanship that dares to stand apart, the Nagari 500 might just be one of the most exciting stories in motoring — coming from a place most people wouldn’t expect.*** [EKA [30072019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BOLWELL CAR COMPANY | CAR SALES | ABC.NET.AU | MOTOR-CAR | MOTOR AUTHORITY | CARSCOOPS ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Resurrected Beast - In the realm of automotive history, certain cars evoke not just nostalgia but a sense of longing for what could have been. One such iconic vehicle is the Jaguar XJ13, a racing car born in the mid-1960s with dreams of conquering the 24-Hours of Le Mans endurance race. However, fate had other plans, and the XJ13 never had the chance to compete due to regulatory changes.
Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar inspired by unsuccessfully Jaguar XJ13 racing car of the 1960s. (Picture from: ZigWheels)
Jaguar, known for its timeless elegance and performance, also had a brush with tragedy in its history. The Jaguar XJ13, powered by a V12 engine, was poised to be a legend on the tracks but ended up as a casualty of evolving homologation rules. Despite a brief appearance in a promotional film, the XJ13 met an untimely end on the MIRA track in the United States.
Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar made of composite materials for the body to make it lighter than the original XJ13. (Picture from: ZigWheels)
Fast forward to 2019, where a Scottish company named Ecurie Ecosse seeks to resurrect the spirit of the XJ13 through a project called LM69. This endeavor aims to create a retro-style supercar inspired by the golden era of 1960s Jaguar racing cars, specifically envisioning what could have been if the XJ13 had raced at Le Mans in 1969.
Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar used the same engine of the Jaguar XJ13, ie a quad-cam 5.0 liters V12 engine. (Picture from: ZigWheels)
The LM69 is not just a tribute; it's a meticulous reimagining of a bygone era. While it takes cues from the XJ13, it is not an exact replica. The LM69 features modern enhancements such as a fixed roof, rear wing, and aerodynamic winglets. These additions, along with wider rims and tires, contribute to its street-legal status in the UK and enhanced performance capabilities.
Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar has many differences with the Jag XJ13, such as a wider wheels and tires beside composite materials using for the body. (Picture from: Motor1)
Underneath its composite material body lies a quad-cam 5.0-liter V12 engine, positioned in the middle for optimal balance and handling. While specifics about the engine remain a mystery, Ecurie Ecosse hints at the possibility of a bespoke 7.3-liter engine, showcasing their dedication to blending heritage with innovation.
The unveiling of the LM69 at the International Concours of Elegance in 2019 was a testament to the timeless allure of Jaguar's racing legacy. Although pricing details remain undisclosed, it's clear that owning a piece of automotive history and innovation will require a substantial investment.
In a world where the past and present collide, the LM69 stands as a bridge between nostalgia and modernity, offering enthusiasts a chance to experience the untold chapter of Jaguar's racing saga. As automotive technology evolves, the spirit of classic racing cars like the XJ13 lives on, ensuring that their legacy remains immortalized on both the track and the streets. *** [EKA [05082019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ECURIE ECOSSE | ZIGWHEELS | MOTOR1]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Looking back today, the existence of MV Agusta scooters feels like a hidden layer beneath the brand’s modern identity. It reveals a company shaped not only by ambition and performance, but also by resilience and necessity. These scooters stand as reminders of a time when even the most specialized manufacturers had to rethink their purpose—creating machines that weren’t just admired, but truly needed.
