Tamed Fury - The world of high-performance automobiles has always been defined by a pursuit of power, precision, and exclusivity. Among the many names that have left their mark, some stand out not just for their engineering but for their passion in reshaping what’s possible. Tedson Motors, a Zagreb-based coachbuilder, has done just that with the stunning Tedson Motors Etna, a reimagined take on the Lamborghini Gallardo that takes the iconic supercar to a whole new level.
The Etna is a breathtaking custom masterpiece by Croatian coachbuilder Tedson Motors, meticulously engineered from the foundation of the iconic Lamborghini Gallardo.(Picture from: Motor1)
At first glance, the Etna commands attention with its widened stance and lower profile, giving it an even more aggressive presence. The front has been extensively redesigned, with the removal of side bumper vents and the addition of revised Teledial alloys. Larger inlets ahead of the rear arches not only add to its visual drama but also enhance aerodynamics, ensuring it looks as fast as it moves.
The Tedson Etna’s front-end immediately stands out with its wider stance, lower profile, and aggressive redesign, featuring the removal of side bumper vents, revised Teledial alloys, and larger inlets ahead of the rear arches that enhance both aerodynamics and visual impact.(Picture from: Motor1)
However, the real transformation happens at the rear, where a body-colored roof cover seamlessly integrates with a ducktail rear wing. This design evolution extends to the exhaust system, featuring striking custom titanium pipes, and an entirely new lighting signature that sets the Etna apart from its donor car.
The Tedson Etna powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V10 now produces an impressive 600bhp—an 80bhp increase over the standard Gallardo—while its redline has been pushed to a thrilling 10,000rpm.(Picture from: Motor1)
Beyond aesthetics, Tedson Motors has also refined the mechanical heart of the machine. The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V10 now produces an impressive 600bhp—an 80bhp increase over the standard Gallardo—while its redline has been pushed to a thrilling 10,000rpm. With a focus on preserving the manual versions of the Gallardo, Tedson exclusively works with automatic models for the Etna, ensuring that enthusiasts who appreciate traditional gearboxes will still have untouched examples of the original.
The Tedson Etna further elevates performance by incorporating suspension components from the track-focused Gallardo Super Trofeo, enhancing its handling dynamics.(Picture from: Motor1)
The engineering enhancements don’t stop there. Borrowing suspension components from the track-focused Gallardo Super Trofeo, the Etna offers improved handling dynamics. Carbon fiber has been extensively utilized throughout the body, chassis, and interior, leading to a remarkable weight reduction of nearly 200kg. This painstaking transformation took approximately three years of development, a testament to Tedson’s commitment to excellence.
The Tedson Etna’s rear-end undergoes a striking transformation with a seamlessly integrated body-colored roof cover, a sculpted ducktail rear wing, custom titanium exhaust pipes, and a completely redesigned lighting signature that distinguishes it from its Gallardo origins.(Picture from: Carbuzz)
Goran Turkic, the head of Tedson Motors, perfectly captured the philosophy behind the Etna: the desire to create a lighter, stronger, and more engaging supercar while preserving the analogue essence of the first-generation Gallardo. In an age where digital interfaces and hybrid powertrains dominate, the Etna stands as a rare homage to pure driving emotion.
For those interested in owning this unique creation, the transformation requires not only a donor Gallardo but also a substantial investment of at least £625,000. The final cost varies based on custom finishes and materials, and the conversion process itself takes roughly a year to complete. Yet, for those who seek something truly exceptional, the Tedson Motors Etna is more than just a modified Gallardo—it is a statement of craftsmanship, passion, and automotive artistry. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TEDSON MOTORS | MOTOR1 | TOPGEAR | CARANDDRIVER | CARBUZZ ]
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Bespoke Classic - Always on the lookout for hidden gems and untold stories of rare and unique cars, we’ve uncovered something truly special. It’s not every day that a classic vehicle is reborn in a way that honors its legacy while completely redefining its character. When you think of iconic Italian automotive design, names like Ferrari or Lamborghini might be the first to come to mind—but for generations, the modest Fiat 500 has stood as a symbol of charm, practicality, and the resilient spirit of post-war Italy. It was never about speed or extravagance—it was about freedom. And now, a rare example is capturing attention not just for what it once was, but for the remarkable transformation it has undergone.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè is a custom-built creation by the skilled hands of Varis Vegni, dramatically transformed from its original form.(Picture from: Retromania4ever on X)
This is the story of a one-of-a-kind Fiat 500 D Coupè, custom-built by the skilled hands of Varis Vegni, a dedicated craftsman from the province of Grosseto, Italy. Originally a 1960 Fiat 500 D, this car started life as one of the many compact city cars that helped mobilize Italy during the economic boom. Vegni, who had owned the car since 1973, envisioned something far more distinctive. After years of planning throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he finally brought his design to life between the 1990s and early 2000s—transforming the beloved city car into a one-off coupé masterpiece.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè was entirely reimagined by Varis Vegni, who devoted his spare time to handcrafting its distinctive coupé silhouette using traditional hand-beating techniques while preserving the car’s original spirit.(Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)
Every curve and contour of this Fiat 500 was reimagined through manual craftsmanship. Vegni dedicated his spare time to reshaping the car’s body, using traditional hand-beating techniques to mold its unique coupe silhouette while preserving its unmistakable soul. The original “suicide doors” were retained, offering a nostalgic nod to the car’s classic design, but the overall bodywork was refined to give the vehicle a sleeker and sportier presence—without compromising its original proportions.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè features a fully restored interior, with upholstery redone in Fiat’s original ochre color and accented by a white bezel for a vintage touch. (Picture from: NetClassic.it)
What makes this coupé even more special is how faithfully it retains the essence of the original. It still runs on the rear-mounted 499cc twin-cylinder engine, producing 17 horsepower through a 4-speed manual gearbox. The original dimensions, including the signature sunroof, remain untouched, ensuring that the transformation didn’t stray from the spirit of the car. Updates include a dedicated front fuel tank and a custom battery compartment, thoughtfully integrated to support the modified structure.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè retains its original “suicide doors” as a nostalgic nod to its classic design, while its refined bodywork adds a sleeker, sportier presence without altering its original proportions.(Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)
Inside, the restoration continues to impress. The upholstery has been completely redone in Fiat’s original ochre color, accented with a white bezel for a vintage finish. New door panels, refreshed chrome details, and Giannini wheel studs reflect the attention to detail that defines this build. Even the hood has been replaced and now functions seamlessly, keeping out water and maintaining the car’s practical charm.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè showcases meticulous attention to detail through its new door panels, refreshed chrome accents, and Giannini wheel studs.(Picture from: QuatroMania.it)
Still painted in its original Fiat 115 Medium Red, this unique creation hasn’t just been restored—it’s been elevated. Certified for roadworthiness as recently as October 2021, it passed inspections with ease and has only minor maintenance needs noted for the future. With just over 38,000 kilometers on the odometer, it remains a working piece of art ready for display or daily enjoyment.
The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè remains painted in its original Fiat 115 Medium Red and is powered by a rear-mounted 499cc twin-cylinder engine delivering 17 horsepower through a 4-speed manual gearbox.(Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)
Wherever it appears, this Fiat 500 D Coupè draws admiration. It was a highlight at the 2022 Auto Moto d’Epoca fair in Padua and is now catching the eyes of collectors and enthusiasts alike on platforms like Catawiki (already had sold). It may be small in stature, but this car carries a grand presence, proving that when passion meets craftsmanship, even the most modest beginnings can lead to extraordinary transformations.
Unique GEMS - Speed Racer has long been a cherished icon in both the realms of animation and the automotive world, captivating imaginations with its sleek and futuristic Mach 5 car. While numerous replicas of the Mach 5 exist (like this one), imagine taking a 1979 Chevrolet Corvette and transforming it into a tangible embodiment of this legendary vehicle. That’s exactly what the 1979 Corvette Speed Racer Mach 5 achieves—a breathtaking and inventive fusion of classic American muscle and the fictional allure of Mifune Motors. Far from being just a tribute to Speed Racer’s thrilling adventures, this car is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that celebrates innovation, nostalgia, and boundless creativity..
The Speed Racer Mach 5 is a fully drivable replica and meticulously crafted custom transformation of a 1979 Corvette, blending nostalgia with innovation. (Picture from: HotMuscleCars)
The roots of Speed Racer trace back to the Japanese anime series “Mach GoGoGo,” where the young and ambitious Go Mifune became a symbol of speed and determination. His Americanized name, Speed Racer, along with the iconic Mach 5, brought international fame to the character. The “M” emblem on the car’s hood, a homage to Mifune Motors in the series, serves as a cultural bridge that ties Japanese artistry to its global adaptations. With its red letter “M” prominently displayed, the real-life 1979 Corvette Mach 5 continues this homage, making it an instantly recognizable nod to the classic series while standing out as a work of automotive ingenuity.
The Speed Racer Mach 5 replica began as a 1979 Chevrolet Corvette, whose fiberglass body and iconic silhouette provided the ideal canvas for its transformation. (Picture from: ClassicCars)
This stunning creation began with the foundation of a 1979 Chevrolet Corvette. With its fiberglass body and iconic silhouette, the Corvette offered the perfect canvas for reimagining the Mach 5. The transformation wasn’t a simple cosmetic modification—it was a complete rethinking of the car’s aesthetic and purpose. The original hidden headlights of the Corvette were swapped for three sculpted pods, a bold choice that mirrors the aerodynamic pontoon-style design of the animated Mach 5. The center pod extends from the original Corvette hood, forming a cohesive yet futuristic front end. The result is a car that feels both timeless and futuristic, blurring the lines between fiction and reality.
The Speed Racer Mach 5 replica underwent more than just cosmetic changes—it was a complete reimagining of the car’s aesthetic and purpose. (Picture from: ClassicCars)
The details on the exterior further enhance its Speed Racer-inspired design. Rectangular headlights now sit snugly between the central and outer pontoons, giving the front fascia an aggressive, race-ready appearance. The signature red “M” on the hood not only reinforces its anime roots but also complements the bold lines of the customized bodywork. The rear of the vehicle is equally striking, featuring a driver’s cowl, rear pods, and taillights that appear to draw inspiration from 1963 Cadillac models. These artistic touches elevate the car’s design to something that wouldn’t look out of place in Speed Racer’s high-stakes racing world.
The Speed Racer Mach 5 replica pays homage to its origins by incorporating elements reminiscent of the Japanese flag, including a red circle and yellow number 5 on the doors. (Picture from: ClassicCars)
As an homage to the Mach 5, this Corvette even incorporates elements that echo the Japanese flag, such as the red circle and yellow number 5 on the doors. These details not only highlight the car’s connection to its anime origins but also serve as subtle nods to Japanese culture. The addition of 15-inch polished drilled wheels wrapped in raised white-lettered BFGoodrich tires ensures that the car isn’t just a display piece—it’s built for the road, ready to turn heads wherever it goes.
The Speed Racer Mach 5 replica boasts an equally striking rear, featuring a driver’s cowl, rear pods, and taillights inspired by 1963 Cadillac models. (Picture from: ClassicCars)
The power beneath the hood lives up to its bold exterior. Retaining its original polished 350ci L48 V8 engine, this one-of-a-kind Mach 5 offers the raw performance and unmistakable sound that made Corvettes legendary. While it may not include the fantastical gadgets of the animated Mach 5—like the robotic homing bird or underwater capabilities—it captures the spirit of innovation and speed that defined Speed Racer’s thrilling escapades.
The Speed Racer Mach 5 replica lives up to its bold exterior with the original polished 350ci L48 V8 engine, delivering the raw performance and iconic sound that made Corvettes legendary. (Picture from: ClassicCars)
The 1979 Corvette Speed Racer Mach 5 isn’t just a car; it’s a symbol of creativity and passion. It brings together the world of anime and automotive engineering, proving that inspiration knows no bounds. The car embodies a blend of cultures, combining the Japanese origins of Speed Racer with the American legacy of the Chevrolet Corvette. It’s not just a tribute but a celebration of storytelling, craftsmanship, and the unyielding human desire to bring dreams to life. However, the video we present below is not about the car we are currently discussing.
In the end, this remarkable vehicle invites us to look beyond its fiberglass and chrome and into the world of imagination it represents. The 1979 Corvette Speed Racer Mach 5 is a reminder that with enough ingenuity and passion, even the most fantastical ideas can become a tangible reality, one that sparks joy for fans and car enthusiasts alike. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOTMUSCLECARS | JOURNAL.CLASSICCARS | CLASSICCARS ]
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Futuristic Oddity - In an era where design often pushes the limits of imagination, it's fascinating to look back and see how the roots of automotive innovation were already being planted decades ago. Post-war Japan, emerging from economic and material scarcity, became a breeding ground for compact, fuel-efficient microcars—vehicles designed not only for practicality but occasionally for sheer whimsy. Among these quirky creations stands one of the most charming and eccentric examples ever made: the 1968 Subaru Tortoise, a unique vehicle that can be seen as a precursor to the modern kei car movement that would later flourish in Japan.
The Subaru Tortoise was a one-off marvel that blended creative artistry with functional automotive engineering, built based on the Subaru 360. (Picture from: QuirkyRides on X)
This unique vehicle, officially known as the "Land Tortoise," wasn’t just another small car. It was a one-off marvel that blended creative artistry with functional automotive engineering. Based on the Subaru 360—a kei car introduced in 1958 and affectionately nicknamed the "ladybug" in Japan—the Tortoise was reimagined into something altogether more futuristic and bizarre. Where the original Subaru 360 featured a modest two-door frame and a 356 cc rear-mounted engine, the Tortoise transformed that platform into something more akin to a bubble-top space pod than a typical car.
The remarkable Subaru Tortoise traces back to the Japanese TV series Kaiki Daisakusen (1968–1971), which featured the Science Research Institute (SRI) investigating unexplained phenomena. (Picture from: WeirdWheels on Reddit)
The origins of this remarkable car trace back to the Japanese television series Kaiki Daisakusen, which aired from 1968 to 1971. The show, which translates to Operation: Mystery! in English, followed a fictional organization known as the Science Research Institute (SRI) as they tackled cases involving unexplained phenomena. This was no ordinary crime-solving agency, and they needed a ride to match. Enter the Subaru Tortoise—custom-built specifically for the show, capturing the curiosity and playfulness that defined its era. The show’s creator, Eiji Tsuburaya, was already a legendary figure in Japanese pop culture, having co-created iconic franchises like Godzilla and Ultraman. So it’s no surprise that even the vehicles in his world carried a certain cinematic flair.
The
remarkable Subaru Tortoise traces back to the Japanese TV series Kaiki
Daisakusen (1968–1971), which featured the Science Research Institute
(SRI) investigating unexplained phenomena. (Picture from: Autopuzzles)
The Tortoise was a small, open-top two-seater, its whimsical design rounded out by exaggerated curves, a high dome-like windshield, and a minimalist, spaceship-like body. While it's assumed the original 356 cc engine remained intact, speed certainly wasn’t part of its appeal. Clocking a 0-to-50 mph time in a leisurely 37.5 seconds, the Tortoise was more about style and story than performance. It was so compact, in fact, that tall drivers were reportedly forced to peer over the windshield while driving—a visual that no doubt added to the car's already cartoonish charm.
The
remarkable Subaru Tortoise was a small, open-top two-seater, its whimsical design rounded out by exaggerated curves, a high dome-like windshield, and a minimalist, spaceship-like body. (Picture from: Autopuzzles)
Unfortunately, very little is known about the fate of the Subaru Tortoise. It was built by a company known only as Haruki Automotive Industry Co., Ltd., led by Kihachiro Haruki, at an estimated cost of around ¥1 million. Despite its limited screen time in Kaiki Daisakusen, the Tortoise left a lasting impression thanks to its distinctive design and quirky presence.
The remarkable Subaru Tortoise was assumed to retain the original Subaru 360’s 356 cc rear-mounted engine, though speed was clearly never part of its appeal. (Picture from: Autopuzzles)
In one especially memorable episode, a hippie couple finds the tiny car at a gas station and impulsively takes it for a joyride. The fun quickly turns eerie when a supernatural force possesses the driver, leading to a loss of control and a crash into a cinder block wall—securing the Tortoise’s place in cult TV lore. While the show also featured iconic vehicles like the Toyota 2000GT, it’s the Tortoise that stands out as a true emblem of offbeat creativity. | _JXb5kwmVr0 |
The 1968 Subaru Tortoise is more than just an automotive oddity; it's a snapshot of a time when television, design, and technology collided in the most unexpected ways. It serves as a delightful reminder that even in an industry often obsessed with power and speed, there's always room for imagination. Whether you're a fan of vintage cars, Japanese pop culture, or just love seeing something truly out of the box, the Tortoise proves that sometimes the smallest vehicles carry the biggest stories. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | 95OCTANE | MARIOTHEMULTIPLA | JAPANESE NOSTALGIC CAR | AUTOPUZZLES | QUIRKYRIDES ON X | PISTONBROKE ON FACEBOOK | MICROCARS WORLD ON FACEBOOK | WEIRDWHEELS ON REDDIT ]
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Sculpted Power - In a world where supercars often follow the same predictable script—sleek, overproduced, and algorithmically styled—it’s rare to find something that truly breaks away from the mold. Automotive enthusiasts crave not just speed and power, but authenticity; a machine that feels crafted rather than assembled. And just when it seems like the art of soulful car design has been overshadowed by over-polished conformity, a familiar name steps back into the spotlight with something refreshingly different: the De Bruyn Ferox V8.
The De Bruyn Ferox V8 stands as a passionate reminder of what a car can be when it’s built from the soul. (Picture from: DeBruynCars)
Marteen de Bruijn, the creative force once behind the renowned Spyker Silvestris, has returned with a strikingly original creation that redefines what a modern supercar can be. The Ferox V8 is more than just a machine—it’s a sculpture in motion, echoing a philosophy that values timeless beauty over fleeting trends. After parting ways with Spyker co-founder Victor Muller in 2004, de Bruijn quietly retreated from the mainstream automotive world. But in 2023, he revealed a bold new project that combines technical brilliance with his unmistakable artistic signature.
The De Bruyn Ferox V8 weighs just 1050kg, offering a power-to-weight ratio comparable to the Ferrari 488 Pista while being nearly 300kg lighter. (Picture from: DeBruynCars)
At the heart of the De Bruyn Ferox V8lies a raw, naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine, delivering a powerful 500bhp and 650Nm of torque. It’s paired with a six-speed manual transmission, giving drivers a pure and unfiltered connection to the road—something that’s becoming increasingly rare in today’s world of paddle shifters and electronic aids. What truly sets this car apart, though, is its weight—or rather, the lack of it. Weighing in at just 1050kg, it boasts a power-to-weight ratio on par with the Ferrari 488 Pista, yet it’s nearly 300kg lighter.
The De Bruyn Ferox V8 showcases exceptional craftsmanship through its flowing, hand-beaten aluminum body atop a bonded-aluminum chassis that unites old-school artistry with cutting-edge engineering. (Picture from: DeBruynCars)
Every inch of the Ferox V8 exudes craftsmanship. Its flowing, hand-beaten aluminum body rests on a bonded-aluminum chassis, blending old-school artistry with cutting-edge engineering. With dimensions measuring 420cm in length, 187cm in width, and just 105cm in height, the car sits low and wide—its stance radiating both aggression and grace. It’s a statement piece on wheels, but one that’s been meticulously designed with purpose rather than flash.
The De Bruyn Ferox V8's cabin delivers a unique blend of luxury in a two-seater layout, featuring digital dashboards and synthetic soundtracks.(Picture from: DeBruynCars)
De Bruijn’s design philosophy is rooted deeply in nature and the enduring power of simplicity. “I take inspiration from nature,” he explains, “because nature a hundred years ago was beautiful—and it still is today.” This timeless lens helps explain why the De Bruyn Ferox V8 stands apart from modern automotive trends. There are no gimmicky curves or forced design cues borrowed from Formula 1. Instead, the car’s silhouette and lines are driven by elegance, proportion, and a desire to make engineering itself visually compelling.
The De Bruyn Ferox V8 houses a raw, naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, producing 500bhp and 650Nm of torque. (Picture from: DeBruynCars)
Backing the project are two forward-thinking entrepreneurs: Wouter van Everdingen, the owner of Palmesteyn, and Niek van Exel, founder of Bloomit Ventures. Together, they support a vision that’s not about mass production, but bespoke artistry. Each De Bruyn Ferox V8 is built to order, ensuring every detail reflects the owner’s unique preferences. With prices starting at €650,000 and only a few already spoken for, exclusivity is guaranteed—but so is a deeply personal experience. | EdAertDs4f8 |
In a market saturated with digital dashboards and synthetic soundtracks, the De Bruyn Ferox V8 stands as a passionate reminder of what a car can be when it’s built from the soul. It’s not just about driving—it’s about feeling. And for those lucky enough to own one, it’s not just about the destination—it’s about the story told in every curve, every gear change, and every breathtaking moment behind the wheel. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DEBRUYN CARS | MAGNETO MAGAZINE ]
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Rare ONES - The automotive world has long been a stage for creativity and bold innovation. Among its many unique stories, the name "Condor" stands out, albeit in two vastly different contexts. On one hand, there’s the Aguzzoli Condor, an Italian creation defined by its sophisticated European styling. On the other, the Condor Stinger—a 1970s American-made kit car—captures the era’s spirit of raw performance and the burgeoning DIY car culture. While these cars share a name, they are entirely unrelated, each reflecting the distinct automotive philosophies of their origins.
The Condor Stinger, a 1970s American-made kit car, embodies the era’s spirit of raw performance and the rise of the DIY car culture. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
However, the car we’ll focus on here is the Condor Stinger, which was developed by Condor Coachworks in Canton, Ohio. In 1976, Condor Coachworks, led by Russ Keller, launched the Condor Stinger as part of their line of kit cars. Unlike the ready-to-drive sports cars of the era, the Condor Stinger was a project car, offering enthusiasts the chance to build their own custom vehicle.
The Stinger, developed by Condor Coachworks in Canton, Ohio, was a standout model in their line of customizable kit cars for enthusiasts. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The company marketed it as offering “the most comprehensive kit on the market,” and while that claim could be debated, there was no denying the appeal of the Condor's performance and customization options. The Condor Stinger
kit offered two types of chassis. The first was a lightweight version
that utilized components from the Volkswagen Beetle, including its
floorpan and suspension bits.
The Condor Stinger was marketed as “the most comprehensive kit on the market,” boasting undeniable appeal with its performance and customization options.(Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The second, more robust version, was designed to accommodate a more powerful V8 engine and included parts from the Ford Pinto, providing a more rugged and performance-oriented build. In both versions, the Stinger was designed with a mid-engine layout, a feature not commonly seen in kit cars of the time, and it used a Turbo-Hydramatic transmission, sourced from an Oldsmobile Toronado, for improved performance and handling.
The Condor Stinger kit featured two chassis options: a lightweight version using Volkswagen Beetle components and a sturdier version built for a powerful V8 engine with Ford Pinto parts.. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The bodywork of the Condor Stinger was perhaps its most striking feature. Inspired by the wedge-shaped design of the Lamborghini Countach, it took the bold angular lines of the Italian supercar and gave it an American twist. Unlike the Countach's iconic scissor doors, the Stinger featured a unique central entry system where the entire roof and windshield tilted forward to allow access to the cabin. This design not only gave the car a futuristic look but also made it easier to get in and out compared to the scissor-door style found on many high-end sports cars.
The Condor Stinger featured a unique central entry system where the entire roof and windshield tilted forward to allow access to the cabin. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Inside, the Condor Stinger offered a high degree of customization. The "Deluxe" kit included a full interior, complete with upholstery, carpets, and a wiring harness. The kit also came with all the necessary glass, a heater system, and even a hydraulic mechanism for the canopy, allowing the driver to open the car’s central section with ease. The options didn’t stop there—buyers could also choose from air conditioning, a suite of digital gauges for a space-age look on the dashboard, and other features that made the Condor feel ahead of its time.
The Condor Stinger featured a mid-engine layout, rare for kit cars of its time, paired with a Turbo-Hydramatic transmission from an Oldsmobile Toronado for enhanced performance and handling. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
However, despite its innovative design and extensive customization options, the Condor Stinger faced challenges in the market. The kit car movement in the U.S. was beginning to shift, and as tastes evolved, the Stinger’s bold design and relatively high price tag—ranging from $16,000 to $20,000 for a factory-assembled model—made it less appealing to mainstream buyers. Production numbers were low, and while it may have found a following among niche enthusiasts, the Condor Stinger was ultimately a rare sight on the road.
The Condor Stinger's bodywork, inspired by the wedge-shaped design of the Lamborghini Countach, was most striking, particularly evident in its taillights. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Today, the Condor Stinger remains a piece of automotive history—a reminder of a time when building your own car was as much about passion as it was about performance. It’s a car that represented the adventurous spirit of the 1970s, where the combination of DIY ethos, performance, and bold design all came together in a unique package. While the Stinger may not have had widespread commercial success, it certainly captured the imagination of those who had the skill and vision to bring it to life.
Unfortunately, the futuristic design of the Condor Stinger failed to drive strong sales, leading to its swift disappearance from the American market.(Picture from: RareComponentCars)
In the end, the Condor Stinger stands as a testament to the creativity and ambition of its makers, even if its time in the spotlight was brief. As rare as it is today, it continues to intrigue automotive enthusiasts who appreciate its daring design, innovative features, and the story of how it tried to carve its place in the history of custom sports cars. It may not have achieved the lasting fame of some other iconic cars, but for those who are fortunate enough to own one, it remains a rare and valuable part of automotive history. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RARECOMPONENTCARS | HOTRODMAGAZINE | JUSTCARS | ALLCARINDEX | ROAD&TRACK ]
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At first glance, the Etna commands attention with its widened stance and lower profile, giving it an even more aggressive presence. The front has been extensively redesigned, with the removal of side bumper vents and the addition of revised Teledial alloys. Larger inlets ahead of the rear arches not only add to its visual drama but also enhance aerodynamics, ensuring it looks as fast as it moves. 
For those interested in owning this unique creation, the transformation requires not only a donor Gallardo but also a substantial investment of at least £625,000. The final cost varies based on custom finishes and materials, and the conversion process itself takes roughly a year to complete. Yet, for those who seek something truly exceptional, the Tedson Motors Etna is more than just a modified Gallardo—it is a statement of craftsmanship, passion, and automotive artistry. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TEDSON MOTORS | MOTOR1 | TOPGEAR | CARANDDRIVER | CARBUZZ ]
