The Willys AW380 Berlineta is an Italian neo-Alpine A108

Forgotten ONES - When the name "Willys" is mentioned, the image of the iconic American Jeep likely springs to mind. However, in this instance, your expectations are about to shift. Allow us to introduce you to a lesser-known gem – a modern vision of the Willys AW380 Berlineta by Carrozzeria Viotti in collaboration with Maggiora, an extraordinary Italian sportscar that reimagines automotive excellence.

2015 Willys AW308 Berlineta by Carrozeria Viotti in collaboration with Maggiora. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

Contrary to the American Jeep legacy, the Willys AW380 Berlineta hails from Italy, crafted with innovation and precision. Yet, it draws inspiration from a surprising source – the Alpine A108, specifically its Brazilian variant.

Front view of 2015 Willys AW308 Berlineta by Carrozeria Viotti in collaboration with Maggiora. (Picture from: Autoweek)

Back in the 1960s, an intriguing collaboration between Willys-Overland and Alpine resulted in the manufacturing of the A108 in Brazil, aptly renamed the Willys Interlagos. In total, over 800 Berlinetas were created (yes, written with only one ‘t’), along with coupés and convertibles.

1964 Willys Interlagos A108 Berlineta. (Picture from: Perico001 in Flickr)

Emerging as a masterpiece of its era, the Willys Interlagos experienced an illustrious racing career, fostering the talents of renowned drivers like the Fittipaldi brothers, Luis Pereira Bruno, Bird Clemente, and Wilsinho. These Brazilian racing champions of the golden age commanded the Willys Interlagos to numerous podium victories, etching their names into motorsport history.

Rear three-quarter of 1964 Willys Interlagos A108 Berlineta. (Picture from: Perico001 in Flickr)

Fast forward half a century, and the esteemed Italian automaker Maggiora has breathed new life into the iconic Willys Interlagos. The catalyst behind this modern revival is none other than the visionary body designer, Viotti, based in Turin. Emanuele Bomboi's ingenious design materialized into the Willys AW380 Berlineta, a spectacle unveiled at the 2014 Bologna Motor Show.

Left side view of 2015 Willys AW308 Berlineta by Carrozeria Viotti in collaboration with Maggiora. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

This spectacular piece of automotive art didn't linger in the spotlight alone – it transitioned seamlessly from concept to reality, rolling off the production line in January 2015. A highly exclusive offering, limited to a mere 110 units, this modern version of the Willys AW380 Berlineta stands as a testament to the fusion of heritage and modernity.

Rear right side view of 2015 Willys AW308 Berlineta by Carrozeria Viotti in collaboration with Maggiora. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

Beneath its sleek exterior lies a powerhouse – a 3.8-liter, six-cylinder biturbo engine borrowed from the Porsche 911, delivering an incredible 610 horsepower. It rockets from 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in just 2.5 seconds, offering pure adrenaline with every launch. With a projected top speed of around 340 kph, this machine stands as a shining example of cutting-edge engineering..

Rear view of 2015 Willys AW308 Berlineta by Carrozeria Viotti in collaboration with Maggiora. (Picture from: Autoweek)

While the Willys AW380 Berlineta is undoubtedly a masterpiece, exclusivity is paramount. Priced at €380,000, this automotive masterpiece is a captivating rarity. The collaboration between Maggiora and Viotti has already borne fruit, with the first batch of sports cars promptly snatched up. Notably, strategic marketing avenues have been established in the Balkans and the UAE, reinforcing the global allure of this Italian marvel.

In essence, this modern intepretation of the Willys AW380 Berlineta by Carrozzeria Viotti and Maggiora serves as a bridge between the past and the future, honoring the legacy of the Willys Interlagos while embracing contemporary innovation. As automotive enthusiasts continue to marvel at this fusion of heritage and modernity, one can't help but appreciate the captivating journey that has led us to this remarkable masterpiece. *** [EKA [07092018] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSIC DRIVER | AUTOWEEK | DRIVE.COM.AU | CARMAGAZINE ]

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