Meet the Lamborghini 132 GT1: The Diablo You've Never Heard Of

Rare ONES - If you are a supercar enthusiast who grew up in the 1990s, you probably know almost all the Lamborghini Diablo variants. There are SV, VT, SE30 Jota, even GTR. But have you ever heard of the Lamborghini 132 GT1?

1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: Motor.es)

At the end of the 1990s, high-end racing was the trend. This surge in interest was partly due to the sheer excitement it brought, and partly because it was theoretically possible to race at the top level with a legally street-car-based racing car. Many famous automotive brands tried their hand at it. Even Ferrari, usually focused on Formula One alone, made an attempt with their Ferrari F50 GT. Some succeeded spectacularly, like McLaren with their F1 GTR, which claimed overall victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Right side view of 1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: Motor.es)

Seeing all this excitement, Lamborghini decided to join the fray. This was unusual because Lamborghini didn’t have a strong racing pedigree at the time. Despite this, Lamborghini embarked on an ambitious sports car racing program to compete with the Porsche 911 GT1, McLaren F1 GTR, and others.

Left side view of 1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: Pinterest)

Lamborghini collaborated with a French company, Signes Advanced Technology (SAT), to design and build a racing car. Initially, everything went well. The collaboration succeeded in building a single road-going example to complement the racing car, and they managed to get homologation approval from the FIA, making it all legal.

Unfortunately, this project was suddenly canceled. However, by that time, two units of the Diablo racing cars had already been built. The reasons for the program's end are unclear, though we can make a few reasonable guesses. The cars were built in early 1998, but by September of that year, Audi had bought Lamborghini, and the program was brought to a halt.

Interior view of 1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: LoveCars)

In the end, the race version of the Lamborghini 132 GT1 ended up competing a little bit in Japan. The road car, such as it is, actually still exists, and one look is enough to understand that it is a true classic Lamborghini beast.

Engine view of 1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: LoveCars)

The car's exterior was typical of the 1990s design, with strong lines wrapped in carbon fiber, dramatically changing the look of Lamborghini's flagship car of the time. The interior was also very different from the standard version, equipped with a custom pedal box, open shifters, and all the buttons, compact switches, bucket seats, and roll cages you would expect from the best race car ever.

Rear three-quarter of 1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: Motor.es)

The car's powertrain was a 6.0-liter V12 naturally aspirated engine capable of producing up to 655 horsepower. This meant that the car was not only recognized for its appearance and performance but also for its sound. The roar of this Yellow Devil was fierce and unmistakable.

Supercar enthusiasts are always on the lookout for unique and rare models, and the Lamborghini 132 GT1 is one of those hidden gems. While its racing career was short-lived, its legacy continues to captivate those who appreciate the blend of raw power and sleek design. For those curious about other unique Diablo variants, the Strosek offers another fascinating chapter in Lamborghini's storied history. *** [EKA [08112019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | UPOST | LOVE CARS | FIA HISTORIC DATABASE | MOTOR.ES | AUTOYAHOO ]

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The MINI: England’s Iconic Compact and Cute Car

The Legend - Small, distinct, and forever stylish—the MINI car captures the heart of British automotive innovation. This compact car, often associated with the quirky antics of Mr. Bean, has a history deeply rooted in economic necessity and brilliant design. The story of the MINI begins in a post-war Europe facing fuel shortages and a demand for smaller, more efficient vehicles. Born out of necessity, this car became one of the most iconic vehicles in the world.

The 1976 Morris MINI Cooper, famously associated with Mr. Bean, the fictional character from the 1990s comedy TV series. (Picture from: Viva.co.id)

In the late 1950s, the Suez Crisis led to fuel rationing across Europe, pushing automotive companies to innovate toward smaller, fuel-efficient cars. The British Motor Corporation (BMC), a merger between Austin and Morris, took up this challenge. Sir Leonard Lord, BMC’s CEO, envisioned a compact vehicle that could respond to these constraints without sacrificing style or functionality. He tasked Sir Alec Issigonis, the brilliant mind behind the Morris Minor, with designing a new car that would embody these goals. By 1957, Issigonis was hard at work, crafting a car that would soon be loved across the globe.

The 1959 Morris MINI-Minor, with registration number 621 AOK, was the first MINI off the production line to carry the Morris badge. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

After two years of development, the car made its debut in August 1959 under two names: the Austin MINI Seven and the Morris MINI-Minor. This three-meter-long car was designed to be compact, affordable, and efficient—qualities that resonated with a wide range of drivers. The MINIs success in Britain soon spread internationally, and by 1969, it officially became known as the MINI, shedding the Austin and Morris labels. Its unique design and affordability led to the creation of various MINI models, including the MINI Van, MINI Pick-up, and the Jeep-like MINI Moke, but none became as iconic as the MINI Cooper.

The 1969 Morris Mini Cooper shown in the picture was particularly celebrated for its agility and innovative front-wheel-drive layout, making it a standout in motorsports. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

The MINI Cooper, in particular, was celebrated for its agility and innovative front-wheel-drive layout, which made it a standout in motorsports. It clinched victories at the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964, 1965, and 1967, a feat largely due to its transverse engine and compact design that allowed for superior handling. This was groundbreaking at a time when most manufacturers had yet to explore such layouts. The MINI Cooper’s rally achievements solidified its place as a car that combined fun with functionality, gaining a loyal following worldwide.

The BMW New MINI Cooper 5 Door is the latest development, offering a breath of fresh air for fans of the iconic British brand. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

After over four decades of production, MINI’s story took a new turn in the early 2000s when BMW acquired the brand and brought a fresh approach to its design. Yet, even with technological updates like wind-up windows, fuel injection, and disc brakes, the MINI’s basic shape remained remarkably similar to its original 1959 version. BMW’s New MINI retained the essence of the original, blending classic charm with modern efficiency, which appealed to both old fans and new generations.

Over 5.5 million units of the classic MINI were produced, cementing its status as Britain’s best-selling car and one of the most beloved cars globally. In 2001, Autocar magazine honored the MINI as the most influential car of the 20th century, surpassing giants like the Ford Model T and VW Beetle. Today, the Mini continues to evoke a sense of nostalgia while embodying the timeless appeal of British design, proving that its legacy is far more than just a chapter in automotive history. *** [EKA [05122019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | MOTORINGFILE ]

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Not Your Average Buick: The Secret Wrecker

Garage Alchemy - Every now and then, the automotive world surprises us with something so unusual and creative that it demands a second look—something that makes us question not just what a car is, but what it can be. We’re talking about vehicles that break the mold, much like the whimsical Lil Redd Wrecker built by George Barris. But unlike Barris’s famously polished creations, there exists another vehicle that stands out not because of its showroom shine, but because of its sheer character and the story built into its bolts. That vehicle is none other than the Buick Roadmaster Custom Wrecker—a curious blend of American luxury and utility that looks like it rolled straight out of a movie set, even if it’s coated in dust and stories. 

1950 Buick Roadmaster Custom Wrecker built by a Buick dealership near or in Oakland, California. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

At a glance, this Buick doesn’t scream “tow truck.” In fact, from the side, it keeps up the illusion of being a fully intact Roadmaster—a car originally known for its elegant, post-war design and high-end flair. But look a little closer and you’ll discover a cleverly integrated boom that actually retracts into the bed, hiding its true identity like a secret agent in disguise. It’s no wonder someone joked it feels like something out of a James Bond film.😅 Despite its rugged second life, this Roadmaster remains remarkably well-preserved, even decades after its conversion. That’s no accident—it’s the result of dedicated craftsmanship by two men who poured heart and skill into building something truly one-of-a-kind.

1950 Buick Roadmaster Custom Wrecker was found in dry storage for years in northern California. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

Back in the 1950s, in the small town of Susanville, California, friends Harper Honea and Clark Burr weren’t just building cars—they were building dreams. Burr, a freshly minted Buick dealer, teamed up with Honea, a capable mechanic, to open a modest dealership in town. These weren’t big-industry players; they were hands-on craftsmen. The two of them built the dealership building from scratch, and when business was running, Honea was the sole full-time mechanic keeping the gears turning.

1950 Buick Roadmaster Custom Wrecker has a special boom actually retracts into the floor of the bed. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

Some years into their venture, the pair got hold of two wrecked 1950s Buick Roadmasters—ironically, both had originally been sold through their own dealership. Rather than send the cars off to the scrapyard, Burr and Honea saw potential. Over time, Honea meticulously rebuilt the vehicles into a single, functional machine. He shortened the cabin, added a custom bed, and integrated a boom, generator, and motor—all based on Burr’s detailed design ideas. The result wasn’t just a tow truck; it was a hand-built mechanical hybrid, seamlessly blending Buick’s luxury DNA with hardworking practicality.

1950 Buick Roadmaster Custom Wrecker is known to be sold with a price tag of $45,000 in 2016. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

This custom wrecker served the dealership well into the 1970s, proving that good design doesn’t just turn heads—it gets the job done. Then, like many relics of a bygone era, it slipped into obscurity, resting quietly in dry storage in Northern California for years before resurfacing in Virginia. The passage of time has only added to its charm. It still runs, it still stops, and yes—it’s still ready to go to work if duty calls.

1950 Buick Roadmaster Custom Wrecker while was used as a special big tow vehicle at a Buick dealer in California. (Picture from: Hemmings)

While it once carried a price tag of $45,000 in 2016, there’s no public word on whether it found a new home. But that number hardly matters when you're dealing with something this rare. The real value lies in the story—of two friends, a small-town dream, and a luxury car reborn as a rugged roadside hero. The Buick Roadmaster Custom Wrecker may not shine like a showpiece, but it carries something even more powerful: legacy, ingenuity, and a soul forged in steel and friendship. *** [EKA [28092020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BARN FINDS | GM AUTHORITY | RODAUTHORITY | HEMMINGS ]

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Soviet-Era Eight-Wheeled Amphibious Marvel

Ingenious Relic - Russia, a land of vast history and intrigue, continues to captivate the world with its fascinating past, especially its Soviet era. Among its many remarkable tales is the recent discovery of a uniquely shaped, eight-wheeled vehicle—a relic from another time that has left many people astonished. This extraordinary find, made in Russia, hints at the ingenuity and experimental spirit of its creators during the mid-20th century.

This unusual eight-wheeled Amphibious All-Terrain Vehicle (AATV), later dubbed 'Argo' by its new owner, was discovered in 2017 in the city of Chelyabinsk. (Picture from: RussiaBeyond)

The initial revelation of this vehicle came through Russian social media, where images surfaced, catching the attention of enthusiasts and historians alike. The vehicle’s rugged, metallic body, worn by time, seems as though it belongs in a dystopian narrative rather than the real world. Some even compare its post-apocalyptic appearance to vehicles from the popular "Fallout" game series. However, its origins are far from fictional. This amphibious vehicle was crafted during the 1960s in Chelyabinsk, a city renowned for its industrial prowess during the Soviet era.

This unusual eight-wheeled Amphibious All-Terrain Vehicle (AATV) was created in the 1960s by engineer Maxim Melnichenko, who worked at the Design Bureau of the Chelyabinsk Tractor Hydraulics Plant. (Picture from: RussiaBeyond)

What makes this vehicle even more remarkable is its relatively light weight despite having eight wheels. At just 600 kilograms, the secret lies in its construction: aluminum panels used for the body and, reportedly, the chassis. This choice of materials contributed significantly to its lightweight engineering. Its compact dimensions are equally surprising, measuring 4,530 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,490 mm in height—making it no larger than a conventional sedan, despite carrying twice the number of wheels. 

The vehicle weighs 600 kg and has compact dimensions, with a length of 4,530 mm, a width of 1,900 mm, and a height of 1,490 mm. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2mOqeuL)

Another striking feature of this vehicle is its amphibious capability. Designed as an All-Terrain Vehicle (AATV) with an 8x8 drivetrain, it could travel across both land and water—a remarkable level of versatility for its time. The eight-wheeled amphibious AATV was developed by engineer Maxim Melnichenko at the Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant between the late 1950s and early 1960s. According to Russia Beyond, Melnichenko, an avid hunter who often ventured into the Ural forests, was inspired by his experiences in the wild. He gathered several like-minded colleagues to build this unusual vehicle for exploring remote terrain.

Its lightweight design is thanks to the use of aluminum panels applied to the body and, reportedly, to the chassis as well. (Picture from: RussiaBeyond)

While the exact purpose or operational history of the vehicle remains a mystery, some elements of its design can be traced back to the GAZ-M20 "Pobeda," a popular Soviet car known for its robust build and reliability. This connection hints at the use of readily available components to create a machine that was both practical and revolutionary in its time. Despite its remarkable engineering, little is known about the current condition of the vehicle or whether it remains operational.

The unusual eight-wheeled Amphibious All-Terrain Vehicle (AATV), partly built using design elements traced back to the robust and reliable Soviet GAZ-M20 "Pobeda," reflects the clever use of readily available components to create a machine that was both practical and revolutionary for its time. (Picture from: RussiaBeyond)

The discovery of this unusual eight-wheeled vehicle serves as a testament to the creative and forward-thinking engineering of the Soviet era. Its unique combination of lightweight materials, compact design, and amphibious capabilities represents a rare glimpse into the experimental spirit of mid-20th-century Russia. Even though the full story of this vehicle remains untold, it sparks curiosity and admiration for the minds that brought such a concept to life.

It is said that the vehicle had the capabilities of an Amphibious All-Terrain Vehicle (AATV) with all-wheel drive (8x8). (Picture from: RussiaBeyond)

This remarkable find invites us to reflect on the innovations of the past and their enduring impact on our understanding of history. It serves as a bridge between eras, connecting us to a time when bold ideas and ingenuity drove the creation of machines that could defy conventional norms. Such discoveries continue to remind us that history holds many secrets waiting to be unveiled, each with its own story to inspire and amaze. *** [EKA [03102019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSCOOPS | DESIGN YOU TRUST | RUSSIABEYOND ]

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Ferrari P80/C: The Most Radical One-Off Supercar Ever Built

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 ] 
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Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas: The Soul of Italian Design in Motion

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 Almas is 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. While the Almas could 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 Almas and designed also by UP Design in 2015. *** [EKA [10042019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOLE AUTOMOBILES | GIMS | MOTOR1 | TOP SPEED | MOTORING | CARSCOOPS]

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