Noble M12 GTO-3 & GTO-3R: Raw Power and Precision

Pure Velocity - The world of high-performance sports cars is often dominated by well-known names like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren. However, some smaller manufacturers have managed to carve out a niche by offering pure driving experiences that rival or even surpass these industry giants. One such company is Noble Automotive, a British brand that may not have the global recognition of its competitors but has certainly earned the respect of driving enthusiasts. The Noble M12 GTO-3 and its evolved version, the GTO-3R, are prime examples of the brand’s dedication to raw, unfiltered performance.

The 2002 Noble M12 GTO-3. (Picture from: Supercars,net)

After the initial success of the M12 GTO, Noble introduced the upgraded GTO-3 in 2002. Featuring a three-liter turbocharged Ford Duratec V6, it produced 30 more horsepower than the original 2.5-liter model. This engine, housed within a lightweight space-frame chassis, delivered exceptional power with minimal turbo lag. The GTO-3 maintained the same fundamental design as its predecessor but improved upon its performance, making it an even more thrilling car to drive.

The 2002 Noble M12 GTO-3. (Picture from: Supercars,net)

The GTO-3 was built with a singular purpose—performance. Its body was entirely made from composite materials, keeping it light and strong. A large rear wing and front splitter provided significant downforce, helping the car stay planted during high-speed cornering. While this aerodynamic focus limited its top speed to 165 mph, it dramatically improved handling, making the GTO-3 feel incredibly stable even under extreme conditions. But where the car truly excelled was its power-to-weight ratio. Weighing nearly 700 pounds less than a Ferrari Enzo, the Noble made better use of its horsepower than most of its competitors.

The 200 Noble M12 GTO-3. (Picture from: Supercarsnet)

However, Noble didn’t stop there. The GTO-3R took things even further, refining the formula with additional performance upgrades. This model featured the same three-liter turbocharged V6 but with an increased output of 352 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 350 lb-ft of torque between 3,500 and 5,000 rpm. A new six-speed manual transmission, paired with a Quaife limited-slip differential, enhanced power delivery to the rear wheels. This combination allowed the GTO-3R to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds and hit 100 mph in a blistering 9.0 seconds. | l9wBVF68DYc |

One of the most unique aspects of both the GTO-3 and GTO-3R was their ride quality. Unlike most modern performance cars, these Nobles lacked traditional anti-roll bars, a decision that allowed each wheel to react independently. This unconventional design gave the cars an unexpectedly smooth ride, absorbing road imperfections without sacrificing handling precision. Despite their aggressive performance, the GTO-3 and GTO-3R remained surprisingly comfortable, offering a more forgiving driving experience than one might expect from such focused machines.

The 2004 Noble M12 GTO-3R. (Picture from: PistonHeads)

Inside, luxury was sacrificed for weight savings and driver engagement. The interior was minimalist, featuring deeply bolstered bucket seats, a roll cage, and basic controls. There were no power windows, no traction control, and no ABS—features that most modern sports cars include as standard. This stripped-down approach reinforced the Noble’s core philosophy: driving should be about connection, not convenience. Even the six-speed gearbox required a deliberate hand, adding to the car’s mechanical feel.

The 2004 Noble M12 GTO-3R. (Picture from: PistonHeads)

Lee Noble, the mastermind behind Noble Automotive, brought years of experience to these cars. Before founding his company, he had worked on projects like the McLaren F1, Ultima Can-Am, and Ascari Ecosse. His deep understanding of motorsport engineering was evident in every aspect of the Noble M12 GTO-3 and GTO-3R, ensuring they remained true to the spirit of high-performance driving.

The 2004 Noble M12 GTO-3R. (Picture from: PistonHeads)

With the success of these models at the time, Noble set its sights on the future, announcing the upcoming GTO-3T, a track-focused version with a 400-horsepower engine and an FIA-approved roll cage. This move reinforced the brand’s commitment to performance, proving that Noble wasn’t just about building fast road cars—it was also ready to dominate the track. | l9wBVF68DYc |

For those who crave an unfiltered driving experience, the Noble M12 GTO-3 and GTO-3R deliver in ways that few other cars can. They may lack the prestige of more mainstream supercars, but their raw power, lightweight design, and engaging handling make them true driver’s machines. In a world where technology often dulls the connection between car and driver, these Nobles stand as a reminder of what pure performance really feels like. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | TOPGEAR | PISTONHEADS ]

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Triumph Conrero Le Mans: The Lost Symphony of Speed

LOST GEMS - The world of motorsports is filled with stories of innovation, ambition, and sometimes unfulfilled potential. One such story revolves around the Triumph Conrero Le Mans, a car that combined the craftsmanship of two legendary figures: Giovanni Michelotti, an Italian designer renowned for his sleek automotive designs, and Virgilio Conrero, a master of tuning engines. These two names alone evoke images of speed, performance, and beauty. Yet, despite the brilliance of its creators, the Triumph Conrero Le Mans never got its chance to shine on the racetrack, and instead, became a symbol of what could have been in motorsport history.

The Triumph Conrero Le Mans combined the craftsmanship of Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti and engine tuning expert Virgilio Conrero. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Virgilio Conrero, born in Turin at the tail end of World War I, was no stranger to mechanics and engineering. During World War II, he served as a mechanic in the Regia Aeronautica, Italy’s air force, gaining valuable experience that would later shape his career. After the war, Conrero's love for automobiles took him on a different path, and in 1951, he founded Autotecnica Conrero. This company would go on to become a key player in tuning Alfa Romeos and Lancias, creating machines that were not only fast but also aesthetically pleasing. Despite his success, Conrero's work was often overshadowed by the more well-known Abarth, but his Conrero-Alfas earned a devoted following and remain prized possessions for car collectors today.

The Triumph Conrero Le Mans was intended as part of a four-car team for the 1961 race, but only one was completed, and not in time to compete. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

The Triumph Conrero Le Mans project began in the early 1960s, with Standard-Triumph seeking Conrero's expertise to develop a car for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The goal was to build a four-car team for the 1961 race, but in a twist of fate, only one car was completed, and that too, not in time for the race. The car was finished in 1962, with its tubular spaceframe and aerodynamic body designed by Michelotti. It also featured the powerful Sabrina engine, a unit capable of producing a reported 165 bhp. This engine, combined with the lightweight chassis, allowed the car to reach nearly 150 mph on England’s M1 motorway, a remarkable feat for its time.

The Triumph Conrero Le Mans, completed in 1962, featured a tubular spaceframe, Michelotti-designed aerodynamic body, and a 165 bhp Sabrina engine. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Despite the car’s impressive capabilities, it never got the chance to prove itself on the world stage. The Leyland takeover of Triumph in the early 1960s led to the project being shelved, ending what could have been a triumphant moment for the British carmaker at Le Mans. The Triumph Conrero Le Mans was left in limbo, a brilliant creation that was never given the opportunity to race. The wind tunnel tests conducted at the Polytechnic of Turin showed promise, but Triumph's decision to withdraw from competitions dashed the hopes of seeing the car’s potential realized on the track.

The Triumph Conrero Le Mans, despite promising wind tunnel results from the Polytechnic of Turin, was left in limbo after Triumph's withdrawal from racing. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

The Triumph Conrero Le Mans, however, did not disappear into obscurity. The car still exists today, a living relic of a bygone era in British motorsport. While it never got to compete at Le Mans, it stands as a testament to the creativity and ambition of its creators. Michelotti's design and Conrero's tuning came together to form a car that could have been a serious contender. In many ways, the car's existence is a reminder of how many great ideas and innovations in motorsports were cut short by external forces beyond the control of their creators.

The Triumph Conrero Le Mans, despite its impressive capabilities, never reached the world stage as the Leyland takeover in the early 1960s shelved the project. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

For fans of British sports cars, the Triumph Conrero Le Mans represents a tantalizing 'what if.' What if Triumph had gone ahead with the project? What if it had competed at Le Mans? Would it have claimed victory? These questions may never be answered, but the legacy of the car lives on, a chapter in the long and storied history of motorsports, where dreams are sometimes left unrealized, but never forgotten. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CARSTYLING.RU | CLASSICCARS | STORY-CARS | MOSSMOTORING | FORUMAUTOSPORT | WIKIPEDIA ]

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Manta Mirage: The Legendary Street-Legal Supercar

Epic Legacy - The world of automotive engineering has always been a stage for innovation, blending creativity and functionality to create machines that redefine performance and design. Among the most fascinating cars to emerge from this dynamic world is the Manta Mirage, a vehicle that captures the imagination with its unique origins and unparalleled performance. This car, a product of the 1970s, remains a symbol of ingenuity and ambition, offering a glimpse into an era where the concept of a "kit car" was transformed into a legitimate supercar phenomenon.

The 1978 Manta Mirage could be ordered as a kit or factory-built car in the 1970s and 1980s, and once assembled, it became one of the fastest cars on the road. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The Manta Mirage was conceived by American brothers Brad and Tim LoVette, founders of Manta Cars, based in Costa Mesa, California. Their vision was ambitious yet grounded in practicality: to create a supercar that was not only street-legal but also attainable for enthusiasts willing to assemble it themselves. Introduced in 1974, the Mirage quickly set itself apart from other kit cars of the time. Its sleek, aerodynamic fiberglass body drew inspiration from the legendary McLaren M8 Can Am race car, reflecting a design ethos that prioritized both aesthetics and performance.

The Mirage featured a custom tubular steel spaceframe chassis, independent front and rear suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, and a lightweight fiberglass body. (Picture from: Silodrome)

At its core, the Manta Mirage boasted a tubular steel space frame chassis, providing a lightweight yet robust foundation. Paired with independent front and rear suspension and four-wheel disc brakes, the Mirage was engineered for agility and precision on the road. The choice of a mid-mounted American V8 engine—typically a Chevrolet or Ford unit—further solidified its reputation as a powerhouse. With curb weights around 2,000 lbs (907 kg) and power outputs exceeding 400 bhp, the Mirage could rival or even outperform many factory-built supercars of its time. This exceptional performance, combined with its affordability, made it a game-changer in the realm of kit cars.

The Manta Mirage features an interior with black seats, black carpets, predominantly black accents, modern dashboard instrumentation with silver bezels and white faces, five-point safety harnesses, and a classic manual transmission with a three-pedal arrangement.. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The Manta Mirage was not merely a technical marvel; it also gained cultural significance. Its appearance in the original 1974 film 'Gone in 60 Seconds' and later in TV shows like Hardcastle and McCormick elevated its status from a niche enthusiast car to a pop culture icon. These appearances showcased the Mirage’s dynamic capabilities and exotic allure, further cementing its legacy in the automotive world.

The car used in the classic 1980s TV series Hardcastle and McCormick is said to be a modified Manta kit car that for plot purposes was said to be a prototype sports car called the “Coyote X.”. (Picture from: Silodrome)

The flexibility offered by the Manta Mirage kit allowed builders to tailor the car to their preferences. While some chose relatively modest configurations, others pushed the boundaries with highly modified engines and performance enhancements. This customization potential contributed to the Mirage’s appeal, offering owners the satisfaction of personalizing a vehicle that could compete with the best on the road.

This Mirage is powered by a stroked small block 383 cubic inch Chevrolet V8 producing a claimed 445 bhp. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Manta Cars’ influence extended beyond the Mirage. The company later introduced models like the Manta Montage and Montage-T, further diversifying its offerings. However, the Mirage remained the centerpiece of the brand, embodying the spirit of innovation and accessibility. Despite its eventual closure in 1986, Manta Cars left an indelible mark on the industry, producing approximately 1,000 vehicles during its 12-year run.

The Manta Mirage's styling was inspired by the McLaren M8 Can Am car, with this example featuring one of the best color choices—McLaren Papaya Orange. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Today, the Manta Mirage enjoys a dedicated following among collectors and enthusiasts. Its rarity and historical significance make it a prized possession, with many examples undergoing meticulous restorations to preserve their original charm. Whether admired for its cutting-edge design, impressive performance, or the adventurous spirit it represents, the Mirage continues to captivate those who encounter it.

The story of the Manta Mirage serves as a testament to the creativity and determination that define the automotive world. Brad and Tim LoVette’s vision brought to life a car that transcended its origins as a kit vehicle, proving that passion and innovation can produce extraordinary results. The Mirage remains not just a car, but a symbol of a bygone era when bold ideas and daring designs pushed the boundaries of what was possible. In the hearts of enthusiasts and the annals of automotive history, the Manta Mirage endures as a timeless classic that inspires wonder and admiration. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SILODROME | WIKIPEDIA ]

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De Tomaso Pantera 90 Si: The Ultimate Evolution of a Supercar

Ultimate Power - The world of supercars has always been dominated by high-priced, exclusive machines crafted for the elite. But every now and then, a car emerges that challenges this notion—offering breathtaking performance without an astronomical price tag. The De Tomaso Pantera was one such machine, earning its reputation as a blue-collar supercar. 

The De Tomaso Pantera 90 Si would have its styling significantly updated by Marcello Gandini, the man who designed the Miura, Countach, Stratos, and countless others. (Picture from: Silodrome)

With Italian styling and a reliable American V8, it combined the best of both worlds. However, as the years went by, the Pantera needed an evolution, leading to the ultimate version: the De Tomaso Pantera 90 Si. As the final iteration of the Pantera series, the 90 Si was the culmination of decades of refinement. 

The De Tomaso Pantera 90 Si, as the final iteration of the series, represented the ultimate evolution of the model, refined over decades. (Picture from: Silodrome)

It was redesigned by Marcello Gandini, the mastermind behind the Lamborghini Miura and Countach. His expertise gave the car a sharper, more aerodynamic look, bringing it in line with the supercars of the 1990s. 

The interior of the Pantera 90 Si was the best-appointed of any of the Panteras, with leather, wood trim, air-conditioning, electric windows, and more. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Underneath the newly sculpted body, the 90 Si featured extensive mechanical improvements, making it the most advanced Pantera ever built. Power came from a 5.0-liter Ford V8, producing 305 bhp—an upgrade over the previous 5.8-liter engine, thanks to modern electronic fuel injection and revised internals. The chassis received reinforcements, while the suspension was thoroughly reworked to improve handling. 

The original car used a fuel-injected 5.0 liter Ford V8, but this car has had the fuel injection system replaced with a more traditional carburetor. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Braking was also a major highlight, as De Tomaso equipped the 90 Si with four-wheel ventilated and drilled disc brakes, featuring the same Brembo calipers used on the legendary Ferrari F40. Production numbers for the 90 Si were extremely limited, with only 41 units built. 

Just 41 examples of the Pantera 90 Si would be made, though two of these would be destroyed during crash testing and another was sent directly to the De Tomaso Museum. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Of those, two were sacrificed for crash testing, and another was reserved for the De Tomaso Museum, leaving just 38 available to the public. Unlike the original Pantera, which was sold through Lincoln-Mercury dealerships in the United States, the 90 Si was never officially sold new in the U.S., making it an exceptionally rare sight on American roads. | 4ke56gMTviw |

Looking back, the Pantera’s journey from its debut in 1971 to its final 90 Si variant tells the story of a car that defied convention. It offered Ferrari-like performance at a fraction of the cost and proved that supercars didn’t have to be temperamental or unattainable. The 90 Si may have marked the end of the Pantera lineage, but its legacy as an underdog in the supercar world remains as strong as ever. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SILODROME ]

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Fiat 8V Zagato Elaborata: Italy’s Forgotten V8 Masterpiece

Iron Elegance - In the golden era of post-war automotive innovation, car manufacturers across Europe vied not just for market dominance but also for motorsport glory. Italy, already a cradle of automobile artistry, saw its marques like Ferrari, Maserati, and Lancia rise to fame with their two-liter race machines. Amid these legends, Fiat—a name more often associated with practicality than performance—made a surprising and unforgettable impact with a car that redefined its image in motorsport history. This rare icon wasn’t just another racer; it was a bold expression of engineering flair and coachbuilding mastery.This car was the Fiat 8V Zagato Elaborata.

The Fiat 8V Zagato Elaborata quickly became some of the most sought-after, not only for their striking craftsmanship but also for their success in motorsports. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)

The story of the Fiat 8V begins at the 1952 Geneva Motor Show, where Fiat unveiled a car that few expected. Internally called “8V,” or “Otto Vu” in Italian, this new machine was created specifically to compete in the fiercely competitive two-liter class of the Italian racing circuit. Fiat deliberately avoided using the term “V8” due to possible trademark conflicts with Ford, though ironically, the engine layout was indeed a V8—a rarity in Fiat’s long lineage of vehicles. The company, better known for its practical road cars, had entered an arena dominated by specialized racing outfits.

The Fiat 8V Zagato Elaborata features a rounded grille with two prominent headlights, flanked by smaller auxiliary lights in the fenders. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)

At the heart of this engineering marvel was a compact 2.0-liter V8 engine, meticulously crafted by merging two inline-four blocks onto a shared crankcase. To keep the engine’s footprint small, the V angle was restricted to 70 degrees, far narrower than the conventional 90 degrees typically seen in larger V8s. This narrow layout not only saved space but also contributed to better weight distribution and aerodynamics. The centrally placed camshaft operated the valves through pushrods, and the power output evolved across its development—from 105 horsepower initially, to 115 horsepower with the addition of an extra Weber carburetor, and eventually reaching an impressive 127 horsepower in racing trim.

The Fiat 8V Zagato Elaborata benefited from additional tuning and a lightweight aluminum body by Zagato, which together delivered a clear performance edge on the track. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)

The technical elegance of the 8V wasn’t limited to its engine. It rested on a steel tubular chassis and featured independent suspension on all four wheels—advanced for its time and ideal for the rigors of circuit and endurance racing. The first series wore a factory body designed by Fiat’s head stylist Fabio Luigi Rapi, whose approach blended functionality with elegance. Its rounded grille housed two prominent headlights, flanked by smaller auxiliary lights in the fenders. A second series was later introduced, with four headlights integrated into the fenders to meet GT regulations.

The Fiat 8V Zagato Elaborata showcases a refined interior with deep red leather, a wood-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel, and a clean, vintage-style dashboard. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)

It was at this point that the genius of Zagato entered the picture. The Milanese coachbuilder, known for crafting lightweight, aerodynamic bodies, took the Fiat 8V to the next level. Initially modifying five of Fiat’s original designs, Zagato eventually produced a limited run of around 25 bespoke 8Vs, each a blend of art and engineering. These vehicles, collectively referred to as the 8V Zagato Elaborata, benefited from additional tuning and significant weight reduction thanks to Zagato’s feather-light aluminum bodywork. These enhancements translated directly into track performance, giving the Zagato variants a competitive edge over their rivals.

The Fiat 8V Zagato Elaborata featured a compact 2.0-liter V8 engine, created by merging two inline-four blocks on a shared crankcase, producing 115 horsepower with a third Weber carburetor and up to 127 horsepower in racing trim. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)

These refined 8Vs were not just beautiful—they were winners. Their nimble handling and power-to-weight ratio enabled them to clinch the Italian Championship in 1954, firmly establishing their place in racing history. Perhaps more impressively, one of these rare machines managed to win its class in the 1957 Mille Miglia, the final edition of the legendary endurance race. Despite their limited production—just 114 Fiat 8Vs were ever made—these cars left a lasting impression. 

The Fiat 8V Zagato Elaborata features the now-iconic Zagato double-bubble roof, a distinctive design element that increased structural rigidity while providing additional headroom for helmeted racing drivers. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)

Today, the Fiat 8V Zagato Elaborata stands as a symbol of an exceptional chapter in Fiat’s story—a moment when the brand, typically associated with utilitarian excellence, embraced performance and elegance in one of the most competitive automotive arenas. | oX7jfdVMhRU |

These cars remain highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts, not only for their rarity but also for the distinct blend of engineering innovation and artisanal craftsmanship they represent. The 8V may have been a brief detour from Fiat’s usual path, but it was a glorious one, culminating in a vehicle that continues to fascinate and inspire generations later. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ULTIMATECARPAGE | CARS.BONHAM | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI ]

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Spohn DV-13 Convertible: A Bizarre Beauty Born from Bold Imagination

Glorious Oddity - It’s not every day you stumble upon a car that looks like it was imagined in a dream—equal parts vintage science fiction and postwar fantasy. In the golden era of design experimentation, when chrome was king and fins stretched like the wings of jet planes, some cars broke molds so dramatically, they carved out a legacy of their own. One such example is the 1957 Spohn DV-13 Convertible—an eccentric, unforgettable creation that continues to raise eyebrows and spark conversations wherever it goes.

The Spohn DV-13 Convertible, with its strikingly unique design, is believed to have been commissioned by American GIs stationed in postwar Germany and built by the renowned coachbuilder Hermann Spohn Karosseriebau in Ravensburg. (Picture from: Story-Cars)

Built in Ravensburg, Germany, by the renowned coachbuilder Hermann Spohn Karosseriebau, this car emerged from a company once trusted to shape the bodies of legendary names like Maybach, Mercedes-Benz, and Bugatti. After WWII, Spohn shifted gears—literally and creatively. American GIs stationed in postwar Germany began commissioning custom cars that reflected their bold, stateside tastes. The result? Machines like the DV-13, where pre-war engineering meets outrageous imagination.

The 1957 Spohn DV-13 Convertible front end features double-stacked headlights and a grille and bumpers that feels more sci-fi than showroom. (Picture from:Silodrome)

At its core, the DV-13 is a Frankenstein of eras. Underneath its flamboyant skin lies a 1939 Ford chassis, complete with pre-war mechanicals—front and rear live axles, transverse leaf springs, and drum brakes. Power comes from a robust 5.4-liter Cadillac V8 engine paired with a Ford 3-speed manual transmission. It’s a combination that tells you this car wasn’t just about looks—it was built to run.

The 1957 Spohn DV-13 Convertible rides on a 1939 Ford chassis, featuring pre-war mechanicals like live axles, transverse leaf springs, and drum brakes. (Picture from: Silodrome)

But let’s talk about those looks. With its steel body shaped into curves and contours that seem to defy logic, the DV-13 is anything but shy. The front end features double-stacked headlights and a grille that feels more sci-fi than showroom. The rear is topped with towering fins that became something of a Spohn signature by the late 1950s. Some say it looks like two cars squashed into one, others claim it made professional designers question their careers—but no one ever calls it boring.

The 1957 Spohn DV-13 Convertible features a left-hand-drive cabin with black upholstery, color-matched carpeting, roll-up windows, a lockable glovebox, a dash-mounted cigar lighter and ashtray, and a bright dashboard housing a 140-mph speedometer and worn auxiliary gauges. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Despite its polarizing appearance, the DV-13 has grown into a cult classic. In 2012, it was purchased by Wayne Carini of Chasing Classic Cars along with his friend Ralph Marano, who found it in the Miami-based Dezer Collection. The car later appeared on the show, then went on to win the Camille Jenatzy Award for “Most Audacious Exterior” at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in 2013. It didn’t stop there—it continued its victory lap at events like the 2014 Boca Raton Concours and even made a stop at the AACA Library.

The 1957 Spohn DV-13 Convertible powered by a robust 5.4-liter Cadillac V8 engine paired with a Ford 3-speed manual transmission. (Picture from: Silodrome)

That kind of exposure turned the DV-13 into something more than just a strange car—it became a symbol of automotive individuality. Now being offered for sale on Bring a Trailer with no reserve and a clean New Jersey title, it comes with spare gauges and a story you couldn’t make up if you tried.

The 1957 Spohn DV-13 Convertible's rear is topped with towering fins that became something of a Spohn signature by the late 1950s. (Picture from: Story-Cars)

And if you thought the DV-13 was Spohn’s only wild creation, there’s more. Another standout from the same workshop is the 1950 Spohn-bodied Veritas, featuring dramatic tailfins and faux jet intakes—a bold example of how far postwar styling could go when imagination was in charge. Curious to see just how far Karosseriebau Hermann Spohn pushed the envelope? You can take a look right here. | Mw8P4wRprz0 |

In the end, cars like the Spohn DV-13 Convertible are a reminder that sometimes the best designs don’t aim to please everyone—they aim to be remembered. This is one of those cars you don’t just see. You experience it. And once you do, you’ll never forget it. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BRINGATRAILER | SILODROME | STORY-CARS ]

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