Chrome Legacy - When people think about the 1950s, images of jukeboxes, soda fountains, and chrome-heavy automobiles usually come to mind. Cars in that era weren’t just a means of transportation—they were statements of optimism, creativity, and American confidence. Among the many names that stood out on the road, the Plymouth Belvedere held a special place. But its fame wasn’t just about style and engineering. Decades later, in 2007, the world was reminded ofthe Belvedere’slegacy when a particular model, sealed away as a time capsule in Tulsa, Oklahoma since 1957, was finally unearthed. That moment rekindled global fascination with both the car and the story behind it.
The 1957 Plymouth Belvedere captured the era's space-age spirit with a sleek horizontal grille beneath a bonnet stripped of ornamentation, marked only by the Plymouth lettering. (Picture from: CarsAndRacingStuff)
The Plymouth Belvedere itself had already enjoyed a colorful history long before being buried beneath Tulsa’s courthouse lawn. Originally introduced as part of the Plymouth Cranbrook line in 1951, it debuted as a two-door pillarless hardtop, the company’s response to rivals like the Chevrolet Bel Air and Ford Victoria. At the time, its elegant roofline and 217.8 cubic-inch straight-six engine producing 97 horsepower made it a serious contender in the affordable car market. Plymouth refined the Belvedere over the years, adding unique styling touches such as the two-tone “saddleback” paint option in 1952 and an updated, sleeker design with a one-piece windshield in 1953.
The 1957 Plymouth Belvedere showcases an interior designed for both comfort and style, reflecting the elegance and innovation of its era. (Picture from: Classic-American)
By 1954, the Belvedere stepped out from its Cranbrook roots and became a full-fledged model line, offered as sedans, station wagons, convertibles, and hardtops. Plymouth gave it bigger engines and, for the first time, a fully automatic transmission. Virgil Exner’s bold “Forward Look” styling arrived in 1955, setting the tone for the dramatic fins and push-button transmissions that defined mid-1950s Plymouths. It was during these years that the Belvedere solidified its reputation as a stylish yet approachable choice for American families. Chrysler even experimented with futuristic ideas, famously installing a turbine engine intoa Belvedere in 1956 for a public relations campaign that captured national attention.
The 1957 Plymouth Belvedere was powered by robust V8 engines, including the Fury 301 and the High-Performance PowerPAC, delivering impressive performance for its time.(Picture from: Classic-American)
The year 1957 was especially pivotal. Plymouth’s marketing proudly declared, “Suddenly, it’s 1960!” to highlight just how futuristic the new Belvedere appeared compared to its competition. With optional V8s likethe Fury 301 and the High-Performance PowerPAC, along with sweeping tailfins, the Belvedere embodied the forward-thinking, space-age spirit of the era. This was the very model that would be buried as Tulsa’s time capsule—an automotive snapshot of American ambition.
The 1957 Plymouth Belvedere reveals its rear three-quarter view, highlighted by dramatic sweeping tailfins that define its iconic 1950s styling.(Picture from: CarsAndRacingStuff)
When the car was finally revealed in 2007, it wasn’t the gleaming masterpiece people had dreamed of. Decades underground had not been kind, and instead of a pristine time traveler from the 1950s, Miss Belvedere emerged weathered, corroded, and deeply scarred by years of moisture. Yet, in a way, that only made her more meaningful. The car wasn’t just an artifact—it was a tangible reminder of history’s imperfections, a symbol of how time changes everything while memories endure. Classic car enthusiasts worldwide didn’t see a ruined vehicle; they saw a story brought back to life. | DN0IQy_5mds |
Today, the Plymouth Belvedere is remembered not only for its production run from 1954 through 1970 but also for its moment in the spotlight as a literal time capsule. The name might have been retired and replaced by models like the Satellite and Fury, but its legacy continues to ripple through automotive culture. Whether in movies like Christine or in the collective memory of that unforgettable day in Tulsa, the Belvedere remains more than just a car. It is a piece of mid-century imagination, a bridge between past dreams and present nostalgia, and proof that sometimes the stories we bury turn out to be the ones that last the longest. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSANDRACINGSTUFF | CLASSIC-AMERICAN | WIKIPEDIA | PAUL26443656 IN X ]
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Inventive Motion - Passion for cars often begins in the smallest, most personal places — a cluttered garage, a childhood sketchbook, a father’s influence. For Zoltán Peredy, that spark lit early and never faded. Born in 1963, he grew up in an environment charged with mechanical creativity. His father, Árpád Peredy, was a man who breathed machinery — a builder of locomotives, trucks, and even jet-powered boats. That inherited energy would later define Zoltán’s life, turning him into a relentless creator whose love for vehicle design refused to be boxed in by convention, budget, or mainstream appeal.
The Brokernet Silver Sting, a racing car designed by Zoltán Peredy for Bovi Motorsport, was built with aerospace-grade materials like kevlar, carbon fiber, and titanium, weighing just 1,100 kg and powered by a 437-horsepower Porsche 911 GT3 engine. (Picture from: DeviantArt)
Electrifying Boldness - Electric cars are rapidly transforming the way we think about speed, design, and driving excitement. In this era of innovation, concept vehicles serve as a window into the future, showcasing what automakers imagine beyond traditional limitations. Hyundai has recently captured attention with one of its most daring creations yet: the Hyundai Insteroid, an electric concept car that fuses aggressive styling with high-performance engineering.
The Hyundai Insteroid is Hyundai’s most daring electric concept car yet, blending aggressive styling with cutting-edge performance engineering. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The Hyundai Insteroid marks a bold step in the automaker’s design journey. Its name combines "Inster" and "Steroid,"hinting at a small yet remarkably powerful presence. Although compact in size, the Insteroidcommands attention with a wide, muscular stance reminiscent ofHyundai’s RN24 drift concept. A specially designed body kit enhances its aerodynamic profile, while over fenders seamlessly merge with a redesigned front bumper, projecting both strength and speed.
The Hyundai Insteroid features a specially designed body kit with over fenders that flow into a redesigned front bumper, creating an aerodynamic profile that radiates strength and speed. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
At the rear, a diffuser contributes to the car’s dynamic silhouette, and the rally-inspired 21-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli tires underline its performance-oriented personality. Hyundai has openly cited video games, particularly “Need for Speed,” as a source of creative inspiration for the Insteroid, blending virtual thrill with real-world design.
The Hyundai Insteroid marks a bold step in the automaker’s design journey, with a name combining "Inster" and "Steroid" to reflect its compact yet powerful presence. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Inside, the Insteroid continues to emphasize excitement and functionality. Racing seats with integrated seatbelts, a roll cage, and a steering wheel equipped with "Boost," "Race," "Track," and Drift modes transform the cabin into a driver-focused cockpit. Hyundai also partnered with Beat House for the car’s audio system, ensuring a premium sound experience. Notably, the charging port has been repositioned from the front to the rear window, reflecting thoughtful design adjustments for practicality and aesthetics.
The Hyundai Insteroid emphasizes excitement inside with racing seats, a roll cage, and a steering wheel offering "Boost," "Race," "Track," and Drift modes for a driver-focused cockpit. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Under the hood—or rather, beneath the sleek body—the Insteroidshares its powertrain withthe Ioniq 5 N. Its dual electric motors, powered by an 84 kWh battery, produce an impressive 478 kW, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.4 seconds. Such performance statistics underscore Hyundai’s commitment to blending electrification with thrilling driving dynamics, even in a concept model.
The Hyundai Insteroid presents a dynamic silhouette with a massive roof-mounted spoiler, a rear diffuser, and rally-inspired 21-inch Pirelli wheels that highlight its performance-driven character. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Eduardo Ramirez, Chief Designer at Hyundai Design Europe, describedthe Insteroidproject as a chance to explore “limitless creativity,” leveraging video game-inspired ideas to craft an emotional, engaging vision for the Hyundai brand. While Hyundai has no immediate plans to bringthe Insteroidto production, the concept serves as a compelling invitation for younger audiences to engage with the evolving automotive world. | W2zaCtzUItY |
In essence, the Hyundai Insteroid stands as more than just a concept car—it’s a bold statement of what electric performance can look like when imagination meets technology. Its aggressive design, high-powered drivetrain, and immersive interior reflect a future where electric vehicles are not only sustainable but thrilling, playful, and visually striking. The Insteroid embodies a vision of speed and style that is unmistakably Hyundai, pushing the boundaries of what a modern electric car can be. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HYUNDAI | CARSCOOPS | OTOBLITZ ]
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Chromed Majesty - The late 1950s were a golden era for American automotive design—an age when cars didn't just get you from point A to point B, they made a statement. Bold lines, sweeping fins, and jet-inspired styling defined the streets. Every model seemed to shout louder than the next, each one a chrome-laden expression of post-war optimism and flair. And among them, the Dodge Custom Royal stood out—not only for its looks, but for the meticulous craftsmanship and engineering that came with it.
1959 Dodge Custom Royal Lancer 2-Door Hardtop. (Picture from: EGAuctions)
By 1959, Dodge had taken everything it had learned from the decade and poured it into the Custom Royal. It wasn’t merely an upper-tier model—it was the crown jewel of Dodge’s lineup. Built on a DeSoto chassis, the Custom Royal shared a foundation with some of Chrysler’s most stylish creations, but distinguished itself with its own personality. Where other Dodge models like the Coronet and Royalsettled for simpler trim, the Custom Royal leaned into luxury. It was offered in several configurations—sedan, convertible, and two distinct Lancer pillarless hardtop variants—each one tailored for the driver who wanted a little more of everything.
1959 Dodge Custom Royal Lancer 2-Door Hardtop. (Picture from: EGAuctions)
Under the hood, choices were plentiful and powerful. The base powerplant was the reliable 230-cubic inch L-head straight-six, but those seeking more excitement could opt for the 325-cubic inch Red Ram V8. For enthusiasts, Dodge upped the ante with the D-501 package—a performance option that took muscle and precision to another level. Borrowing Chrysler’s formidable 354 CID Hemi V8 left over from the 300B, the D-501 variant was no mere parts-bin creation.
1959 Dodge Custom Royal Lancer 2-Door Hardtop. (Picture from: EGAuctions)
It incorporated camshafts from the newer 392 engines, dual Carter four-barrel carburetors, and a 10.0:1 compression ratio to push an impressive 340 horsepower. It wasn’t just fast—it was engineered for performance, with heavy-duty suspension, torsion-bar front springs, and massive 12-inch brake drums to bring all that speed under control.
1957 Dodge Custom Royal 4-Door Sedan. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Transmission choices included a standard three-speed manual mated to a 3.73:1 rear axle, though automatic-equipped versions came with a 3.18:1 setup. What made the D-501 even more compelling was its adaptability: a staggering thirteen optional rear axle ratios were available, from 2.92:1 for long, smooth cruising to a stump-pulling 6.17:1. Tires were equally robust—7.60x15 on wide 15x8 wheels—ensuring grip matched the power.
1959 Dodge Custom Royal 2-Door Convertible. (Picture from: TradeUniqueCars)
The Custom Royal wasn’t about excess for its own sake; it was a carefully considered blend of style, comfort, and mechanical sophistication. Its tailfins weren’t just dramatic—they were aerodynamic. Its interior wasn’t just plush—it was coordinated down to the smallest detail, evoking the idea of tailor-made precision that few cars of the era could claim. Everything from the grille to the trim lines, from the steering wheel to the badges, reflected a design philosophy centered on individuality and prestige.
1959 Dodge Custom Royal 2-Door Convertible. (Picture from: TradeUniqueCars)
With just over 21,000 units produced in 1959, the Custom Royal represented a modest slice of Dodge’s total output—but it left a lasting impression. That year marked the end of the line for the Custom Royal, closing a chapter that began in 1955. It went out not quietly, but confidently, having cemented its place in automotive history as a car that captured the spirit of its time—bold, bright, and unapologetically grand. | vnfv18Bdqgw |
Today, a well-preserved Dodge Custom Royal isn’t just a collectible—it’s a rolling memory of when cars were built with ambition, imagination, and a whole lot of chrome. For those who admire the era when style and performance held equal value, this Dodgeremains one of the most compelling examples of what made the 1950s unforgettable on four wheels. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CONCEPTCARZ | EGAUCTIONS | TRADEUNIQUECARS | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Wooden Wonder - In the world of custom vehicles, there's no shortage of wild ideas and eccentric creators—but every now and then, something truly extraordinary rolls into view. In an age dominated by metal, plastic, and carbon fiber, the idea of a wooden car might sound like something out of a fairy tale or a craftsman's daydream. Yet, nestled in the peaceful countryside of Pembrokeshire, a tiny village in Wales became the birthplace of one of the most curious automotive marvels ever built: the Tryane II, a handcrafted wooden three-wheeler unlike anything seen before.
The Tryane II crafted in the 1980s by a British cabinetmaker named Friend Wood in the peaceful countryside of Pembrokeshire, a tiny village in Wales, this unusual vehicle is more than just a novelty. (Picture from: EcoFriend)
Crafted in the 1980s by a British cabinetmaker with a fitting name—Friend Wood—this unusual vehicle is more than just a novelty. Inspired by boatbuilding techniques and driven by the desire to defy conventional thinking, Wood set out to build a car that would prove that craftsmanship and creativity could challenge automotive norms. His goal? To construct everything from scratch, excluding only the engine and drivetrain. And the results were nothing short of astonishing.
The Tryane II's body is built entirely from a mahogany variety called Kahya, sourced from Africa, took over 600 hours of careful layering and gluing, along with 20,000 staples that were later removed.(Picture from: Best of British on Facebook)
The Tryane II's soul lies in its deep roots—literally. Its body is built entirely from a mahogany variety called Kahya, sourced from Africa. This exotic hardwood was selected not just for its beauty, but for its surprising strength, light weight, and resistance to environmental threats such as moisture, rot, insects, and even fire, when treated properly. Friend Wood didn’t just use any wood—he used boat-grade, epoxy-impregnated plywood applied through a meticulous process known as cold moulding. Over 600 hours of careful layering and gluing, along with 20,000 staples that were later removed, went into forming the car’s elegant tear-drop body, resulting in a structure that is both aerodynamic and durable.
The Tryane II's body was built in two major shell-like components over a hand-sculpted male mold, a technique familiar to shipbuilders but foreign to car manufacturers.(Picture from: Aventure-Citroen-Min.Forumactif)
The body was built in two major shell-like components over a hand-sculpted male mold, a technique familiar to shipbuilders but foreign to car manufacturers. The monocoque frame of the Tryane II rivals the rigidity of truck chassis, yet it’s far lighter—only about 900 pounds (408 kg).
The Tryane II is an elegant evolution—one that captured the attention of the public when it appeared at the 1989 global Citroën 2CV gathering in Orléans. (Picture from: Aventure-Citroen-Min.Forumactif)
This lean design, combined with its aerodynamic shape, allows
the car to reach speeds of up to 100 mph (160 km/h) while achieving
fuel efficiency between 55 to 70 miles per gallon (4.3 L/100 km). Powering this impressive wooden shell is a modest but effective two-cylinder, air-cooled 602 cc boxer engine salvaged from a 1969 Citroën Dyane 6, matched with suspension components from the classic Citroën 2CV.
The Tryane II features a cockpit inspired by Formula 1 monocoques, designed as a seamless, unified structure.(Picture from: Best of British on Facebook)
As for its name, the Tryane II is a clever nod to its origins: a fusion of “three wheels” and the “Dyane” model it borrows from. Its predecessor, the Tryane I, was rougher around the edges, but this second version is an elegant evolution—one that captured the attention of the public when it appeared at the 1989 global Citroën 2CV gathering in Orléans.
The Tryane II's seating area hides thoughtful design choices, such as a removable seatback to access the spare wheel and shock absorbers, and a floor that can be lifted to reach key suspension and exhaust components.(Picture from: Best of British on Facebook)
While the vehicle’s performance is notable, it’s the design process that truly defines the Tryane II. Friend Wood started by sketching the vehicle at 1:5 scale, creating detailed models, and transferring full-sized outlines onto wooden panels. He sculpted the body’s mold from softwood and particle board, onto which he laid three thin layers of mahogany veneer, laminated with epoxy to form the final shape. Even the tank, which holds 30 liters, is built from reinforced plywood with interior baffles to prevent fuel sloshing. The windows and headlights are fitted with plexiglass, and components like the windshield—repurposed from the rear window of a Saab 96—were ingeniously reused for their perfect curvature.
The Tryane II takes its name from a clever blend of “three wheels” and the Citroën “Dyane” model it’s based on. (Picture from: WeirdWheels on Reddit)
Inside, the Tryane II’s cockpit draws inspiration from Formula 1 monocoques, emphasizing a single, flowing structure. The seating area hides thoughtful design choices, such as a removable seatback to access the spare wheel and shock absorbers, and a floor that can be lifted to reach key suspension and exhaust components. Even the hinges on the front cover were repurposed from Citroën 2CV doors, reflecting Wood’s talent for reimagining familiar parts in new contexts.
The Tryane II showcases a varnished mahogany body whose natural grain glows in the light, creating a striking sculptural presence. (Picture from: Best of British on Facebook)
It’s impossible to overlook the visual charm of the Tryane II. The natural grain of its varnished mahogany body glows in the light, giving it an almost sculptural presence. Wherever Friend Wood traveled in his creation, crowds gathered, amazed not just by the craftsmanship, but by the sheer boldness of the concept. And he always welcomed their curiosity, answering every question with the enthusiasm of someone who had spent over 2,000 hours turning imagination into reality. | qE02kbC0yP8 |
More than just a quirky DIY project, the Tryane II stands as a celebration of ingenuity, patience, and a deep respect for traditional craftsmanship. It reminds us that with the right mix of vision and skill, even the most unconventional materials can be transformed into something truly extraordinary. And in a world racing toward automation and synthetic design, this wooden wonder from Wales gently taps the brakes—and turns every head along the way. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | NEWS.BBC | AVENTURE-CITROEN-MIN.FORUMACTIF | ELEPHANTANDCHICKEN | ECOFRIEND | BEST OF BRITISH ON FACEBOOK ]
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Ferocious Elegance - Car culture has always thrived on reinvention. Just when it feels like the boundaries of automotive design and performance have been pushed to their limit, along comes a creation that redefines the rules once again. That’s exactly what happened when Mansory unveiled its latest project in 2024: a radical reimagining of Ferrari’s first-ever crossover, the Purosangue. The result has been christened the Mansory Pugnator—a name that already sets the tone for a machine built to dominate.
The Mansory Pugnator, unveiled in 2024 as a radical reimagining of Ferrari’s first-ever crossover Purosangue, carries a name that sets the tone for a machine built to dominate. (Picture from: Mansory)
“Pugnator,” drawn from Latin and meaning “competitor,” is a fitting badge for this extraordinary transformation. Mansory is known for its fearless approach to tuning, often blurring the line between elegance and aggression, and this project is no exception. Wrapped in a striking Vermillion red and dressed in a full carbon-fiber body kit, the Pugnatorhas been stripped of all Ferrari logos and proudly wears Mansory’s own emblem instead. It’s a bold move that turns the Purosangue into something altogether different, a creation that embodies Mansory’s identity more than Ferrari’s.
The Mansory Pugnator showcases a meticulously sculpted body with a dominating front bumper, functional intakes, muscular lines, carbon-fiber hood, flared arches, fender vents, and bold side fins that emphasize its athletic performance. (Picture from: Carvaganza)
Every surface of the Pugnator has been sculpted with intention. The front bumper dominates with cavernous intakes and ducts that aren’t just for show—they channel airflow to improve downforce. Lines, creases, and vents run across the body like muscle fibers, giving it a taut, athletic stance. The hood bulges in carbon fiber and blends seamlessly into flared arches, while the side profile boasts fender vents and large fins that scream performance. Even the rear doors feature faux vents, an unapologetic flourish typical of Mansory’s audacious design language. At the back, the visual drama peaks with a massive diffuser cradling dual exhaust tips and a towering spoiler that demands attention. This isn’t just a widebody; it’s a stage presence.
The Mansory Pugnator, an ultra-exclusive masterpiece limited to just seven units, made its grand debut at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show. (Picture from: Carvaganza)
The rolling stock further underlines its power. Mansory fitted the Pugnator with FC.5 forged alloy wheels—22 inches at the front and 23 inches at the rear—designed with aggressive simplicity. Beyond aesthetics, they reveal the braking system and are matched with high-performance tires that promise grip to match the car’s ferocity. While Mansory has yet to share details about suspension tweaks, the wheel setup alone suggests that this Purosangue is ready for more than just a parade of stares.
The Mansory Pugnator continues its transformation inside with an ivory leather cabin highlighted by red accents, carbon fiber inserts, perforated patterns on seats and panels, plus aluminum pedals, custom mats, and signature branding for a touch of exclusivity. (Picture from: Hyper.luxe)
Beneath the hood, Mansory resisted the temptation to overdo things, instead opting for measured but meaningful enhancements. The stock 6.5-liter V12 already pushes out 715 horsepower and 715 Nm of torque, but with a remapped ECU, a new valve-controlled exhaust, and a sports catalytic converter, the numbers climb to 745 horsepower and 730 Nm. It’s not a leap into hypercar territory, but the gain ensures sharper response and a soundtrack that matches the visual aggression. Driving it isn’t just about numbers on paper—it’s about the raw experience Mansory is known for delivering.
The Mansory Pugnator features a unique towering roof spoiler that enhances its aerodynamic performance while amplifying its commanding stance. (Picture from: Carvaganza)
Inside, the transformation continues. Mansory reimagined the cabin in ivory leather with vibrant red accents, accented further by carbon fiber inserts. The seats, armrests, and panels now feature fresh perforated patterns, while aluminum pedals, custom floor mats, and signature Mansory branding reinforce the exclusivity. The Pugnatorisn’t bound by this configuration alone; each car can be tailored entirely to the buyer’s taste, ensuring no two will ever feel the same.
The Mansory Pugnator commands attention at the rear with a massive diffuser housing dual exhausts and a towering spoiler that turns its widebody into a true stage presence. (Picture from: Hyper.luxe)
Price remains undisclosed, but given Mansory’s portfolio, it’s certain to carry several commas, as this ultra-exclusive run of only seven units—an engineering and design masterpiece—made its grand debut at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show, a stage reserved for the world’s most extravagant creations. | UNGGNNdSghM |
The Mansory Pugnator is not just a tuned Ferrari; it’s a statement. It’s proof that even a groundbreaking car like the Purosangue can be reinterpreted with more drama, more personality, and more presence. Where Ferrari aimed to blend practicality with performance, Mansory has unleashed a creation that is pure theater on wheels—designed for those who want their car not only to move fast, but also to command every eye it passes. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MANSORY | CARVAGANZA | HYPER.LUXE ]
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Streamlined Legacy - Some stories in the automotive world feel less like cold machinery and more like chapters of an epic adventure. The late 1930s were a golden age of experimentation in racing, where engineers were daring enough to test the limits of speed, endurance, and design. From this atmosphere of bold creativity came one of the most fascinating machines ever to hit the road—the 1938 Wanderer W25 Stromlinie Spezial Roadster. Even now, decades later, its story still resonates as a celebration of human ingenuity and passion for racing.
The 1938 Wanderer W25 Stromlinie Special Roadster is a remarkable piece of automotive history, combining groundbreaking design and unparalleled performance. (Picture from: Perico001 in Flickr)
Born under the banner of Auto Union, a company formed in 1932 that quickly gained notoriety as a powerhouse in motorsport, the Wanderer W25 Stromlinie Spezial was more than just a car—it was a statement. Auto Union had already made waves in Grand Prix racing, but the brand was not content to stop there. Endurance and off-road racing were exploding in popularity during the era, and the company saw an opportunity to test its creations in events that demanded not only speed but also stamina and resilience.
One of the Wanderer W25 Stromlinie Spezial Roadsters proudly sits on display at Audi Tradition’s museum in Ingolstadt. (Picture from: Blog.Giaydantuong.edu.vn)
This ambition led to one of the most grueling competitions of the time: the Liège-Rome-Liège race, a 5,064 km marathon across unforgiving terrain. To rise to the challenge, Auto Union commissioned three streamlined Wanderer sports cars, each one crafted with an aluminum body and placed on the chassis ofthe Wanderer W25 K.
The Wanderer W25 Stromlinie Spezial Roadster reveals its cockpit with a minimalist yet purposeful dashboard, showcasing classic gauges and raw racing spirit. (Picture from: Blog.Giaydantuong.edu.vn)
These machines were unlike anything else on the course. The W25 Stromlinie Spezialmeasured 4.35 meters long, 1.65 meters wide, and just 1.28 meters tall, tipping the scales at only 900 kilograms. Its featherweight design gave it an edge, but what lay under the hood was just as impressive: a 2.0-liter six-cylinder engine engineered by none other than Ferdinand Porsche. Delivering 70 horsepower at 4,800 rpm, the car could push itself to 160 km/h—numbers that made it a serious threat in 1938.
The Wanderer W25 Stromlinie Spezial Roadster appeared at the 2006 Klausenrennen, shortly after starting in Linthal on the double curve with its still-original pitch paving. (Picture from: Blog.Giaydantuong.edu.vn)
What truly set the Stromlinie Spezial apart wasn’t only its beauty or speed, but the way it handled brutal racing conditions. With a 4-speed manual gearbox featuring quick-shift technology, the car was built for efficiency in long stretches of demanding competition. Against all odds, Auto Union’s efforts paid off. By 1939, the team clinched victory in the Liège-Rome-Liège team competition, a triumph that cemented the Stromlinie Spezial’s reputation as a legend in endurance racing.
The Wanderer W25 Stromlinie Spezial Roadster, one of three replicas, took part in the 2006 Klausen Race Memorial on the cobblestones of the Klausen Pass road shortly after the start in Linthal. (Picture from: Blog.Giaydantuong.edu.vn)
Of course, racing history is filled with moments of brilliance that risk fading into obscurity if not preserved. Thankfully, the Wanderer W25 Stromlinie Spezial did not suffer such a fate. Decades later, in 2004, Audi took steps to revive the story by commissioning Werner Zinke GmbH, a European restoration specialist, to rebuild the three streamlined specials.
The Wanderer W25 Stromlinie Spezial Roadster was revived in 2004 when Audi commissioned Werner Zinke GmbH, a European restoration specialist, to rebuild the three streamlined models. (Picture from: CCDiscussion)
In a poetic nod to history, these restored cars even returned to the Liège-Rome-Liège run, exactly 65 years after their first grueling journey. Today, two of the cars proudly sit on display at Audi Tradition’s museum in Ingolstadt, while the third is cared for by Belgian importer D’Ieteren, ensuring that this chapter of racing heritage remains alive for future generations. The Wanderer W25 Stromlinie Spezial Roadster is more than an artifact of the past—it is a reminder of what happens when design, engineering, and determination align to push boundaries. | FrjXR4R5Ka4 |
At a time when cars were expected to be either fast or durable, this roadster dared to be both, standing out as an icon that bridged art and performance. And even now, in an age of advanced technology and electric speed, the streamlined silhouette of the W25 still whispers the same message it carried back in 1938: that racing is as much about heart as it is about horsepower. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DREAMCAR.CH | BLOG.GIAYDANTUONG.EDU.VN | PERICO001 IN FLICKR | CCDISCUSSION | CARNEWSCH*NA ]
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