Dream Chaser - From ambitious dreams to harsh realities, the journey of Abarth in the world of racing is a tale of passion, innovation, and unforeseen challenges. Synonymous with sportiness, Abarth's legacy is not just about creating fast cars but about pushing the boundaries of what's possible. One such ambitious project was the Abarth T140 6000, a racing prototype that aimed to challenge the giants like Porsche and Ferrari in the international racing arena.
The Abarth T140 6000 replica, crafted by Scuderia Gemini Corse from available photos and drawings, revitalizes Abarth's legacy, evident in its presence today. (Picture from: Pinterest)
In the late '60s, Carlo Abarth, the genius behind the brand, envisioned a car that could compete head-to-head with the best in the business. So then the Abarth T140 6000 was not just another sports car; it was a masterpiece in the making, powered by a vigorous 6000 cc 12V engine designed to conquer races like the 24-Hours of Le Mans.
The Abarth T140 6000 clay model is a testament to Abarth's ambitious pursuit of racing dominance during the 1960s. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)
Unfortunately, fate had different plans for this ambitious creation. Despite its potential to redefine racing standards, the T140 6000 never saw the light of day due to a rule change in the Sport Prototype category. This left Abarth enthusiasts with a sense of wonder and curiosity about what could have been.
The sleek Abarth T140 6000 clay model hinted at Abarth's ambitions to compete in elite endurance racing, taking on giants like Ferrari and Porsche. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)
A pivotal moment in Abarth's journey occurred with the unveiling of the Abarth V12 engine in 1967, showcasing Abarth's relentless pursuit of excellence. The sheer power and ingenuity of this engine hinted at Abarth's ambitions to enter the elite realm of endurance racing, challenging the likes of Ferrari and Porsche.
A pivotal moment for Abarth came with the debut of the Abarth V12 engine in 1967, showcasing their relentless pursuit of excellence. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
However, the challenges were daunting. The weight of the T140 6000 posed a significant obstacle, tipping the scales at a ton, unlike the lightweight Ferrari 330 P4. Moreover, regulatory changes further complicated Abarth's aspirations, forcing them to reconsider their strategy and ultimately abandon the T140 6000 project. After implementing this change, none to be produced for homologation, a task that the artisanal Abarth company was ill-prepared to undertake.
From the skilled hands of engineer Hansi Marsi emerged the Abarth T140 6000 racing car replica, brought to life with remarkable precision and detail. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)
Despite the setback, Abarth's legacy
continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts. The spirit of
innovation and the quest for perfection remain ingrained in every Abarth creations, reminding us that in the world of racing, dreams may falter, but the pursuit of greatness never ends.
The finished Abarth T140 6000 replica first graced the track in 2017 and has since been a highlight at numerous classic and historic events throughout Europe. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)
Given these circumstances, it's no surprise that the Abarth V12 engine ended up in the hands of a collector, while the chassis and body plans were tucked away in a drawer. However, in a remarkable turn of events, in 2014, engineer Hansi Marz from Scuderia Gemini Corse in Bavaria embarked on a project to assemble a magnificent replica based on available photos and drawings,, breathing new life into Abarth's legacy as you can see today.
The Abarth T140 6000 replica features a fiberglass bodywork mounted on a space frame tube chassis, propelled by a rear mid-mounted BMW V12 engine producing 450 horsepower, coupled with a 6-speed transmission.(Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)
Over a three-year period, he developed a space frame tube chassis and fiberglass bodywork, powered by a rear mid-mounted BMW V12 engine generating 450 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed transmission. The completed car made its debut on the track in 2017 and has since participated in various classic and historic events across Europe.
In the end, the T140 6000 stands as a testament to Abarth's daring vision and the unpredictable nature of the racing world. While the prototype may never roar across the finish line, its legacy lives on, a symbol of ambition, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of racing excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | EN.ESCUDERIA | ROADANDTRACK | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS | WIKIPEDIA ]
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⚠️Lost Gems💥 - In the vast landscape of unique concept cars, many innovative designs remain hidden from the public eye. One such groundbreaking design was the GVANG Steamer, a unique futuristic steam-engined vehicle that aimed to revolutionize both performance and sustainability. Developed in Sydney during the early 1970s, despite its promise, the high-performance car was never made it to mass production.
The GVANG Steamer was a unique futuristic steam-engined vehicle that aimed to revolutionize both performance and sustainability, and was first presented at the Sydney International Motor Show in 1972. (Picture from: CarMechanic)
As the early 1970s saw a growing interest in low-pollution power systems, the GVANG was designed to demonstrate the potential of steam power. The project aimed to surpass the 1906 steam land speed record. The car was the brainchild of Gene van Grecken, an artist and architect, with help from Bob Britton and Stan Smith. Privately funded from 1968 to 1980, the GVANG was designed to achieve a top speed of 200 mph.
The GVANG Steamer was the brainchild of Gene van Grecken, an artist and architect, with help from his colleagues Bob Britton and Stan Smith. (Picture from: Classic and Recreation Sportscars)
For regular road use, a detuned version was planned, limiting the speed to approximately 118 mph. Between 1971 and 1972, the GVANG Steamer was a lightweight prototype with a steel frame chassis and aluminum bodywork by Sydney-based Hadley coachworks. The full canopy opening allowed easy access to the cabin, emphasizing its futuristic design.
The GVANG Steamer featured an exceptional two-cylinder steam engine that produced an impressive 300 bhp, as published by Popular Mechanics auto magazine in 1972. (Picture from: Classic and Recreation Sportscars)
The GVANG Steamer featured an exceptional two-cylinder steam engine that produced an impressive 300 bhp of power. This engine, mounted between the rear wheels, had a capacity of 2.9 liters and utilized oscillating pistons. An electronically controlled generator managed the steam supply, optimizing the engine's performance. The engine's remarkable torque at low speeds eliminated the need for a clutch or gearbox, showcasing the innovative engineering behind the GVANG Steamer prototype.
The GVANG Steamer was a lightweight prototype with a steel frame chassis and aluminum bodywork by Sydney-based Hadley coachworks. (Picture from: PostWarClassic)
As written on the brochure, the GVANG Steamer's specifications included a lightweight flash steam engine with 300 bhp, a flat torque curve from rest, and dimensions of 163.5 inches in length, 65 inches in width, 38 inches in height, and a 113-inch wheelbase. The car had a 54-inch track, weighed 13.5 hundredweight, and featured 9-inch wheels, Firestone 10-15-15 Indy High-Speed tires, and Girling 11-inch brakes.
The GVANG Steamer's specifications included a lightweight flash steam engine with 300 bhp, a flat torque curve from rest, and dimensions of 163.5 inches in length, 65 inches in width, 38 inches in height, and a 113-inch wheelbase. (Picture from: Classic and Recreation Sportscars)
The GVANG's sleek aluminum body was first presented at the Sydney International Motor Show in 1972. While the vehicle was complete, its power plant was still being refined and tested on a chassis dynamometer. Despite these ambitious plans, this concept car received a warm welcome from visitors, and the Sydney media covered it extensively.
Despite uncertainties about the engine's development, the project was eventually halted, and the body and chassis were sold at auction. It is believed that the GVANG's chassis and body remain in Australia, possibly in the Blue Mountains near Sydney. Rumors suggest that Shell Oil Company acquired the engine technology. | Yl2zkf7PfLs |
Although the GVANG Steamer never entered production due to financial constraints, it remains a captivating chapter in automotive history. This innovative vehicle highlighted the potential of alternative power sources and continues to inspire those who dream of a future where sustainability and high performance coexist seamlessly. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS | CAR MECHANIC | THE SIDNEY MORNING HERALD | CARTEFACTS | STEAMENGINEFANDOM | BOLLYBLOG | WEIRDWHEELD | AUTONXT ]
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📢New BORN - Imagine the thrill of taking something considered lackluster and transforming it into a masterpiece. This sentiment resonates deeply with automotive enthusiasts, especially when they succeed in enhancing a car that was previously seen as mediocre. Take the Ferrari 348, for instance. Widely regarded as a disappointment, it was once deemed the worst Ferrari ever produced by many critics. As the result, in early of nineties, the 348 evolved into the remarkable F355, a mid-engined Ferrari that won many hearts.
The F355 Evoluto exemplifies the power of innovation and passion in the automotive world. (Picture from: TopGear)
Fast forward to 2024, again the F355 had undergone another transformation, courtesy of Evoluto Automobili. This UK-based engineering firm is known for its meticulous restoration and modernization of iconic supercars, and their latest project, the F355 Evoluto, is no exception. They begin with a customer-supplied car, stripping it down to its core chassis. The chassis is then cleaned, assessed, and strengthened using carbon fusing. This modification is claimed to have improved the car’s torsional rigidity by 23%, making it stronger and more robust.
Those interested in owning the F355 Evoluto must provide an original Ferrari F355 Berlinetta. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
The exterior of the F355 Evoluto has been significantly updated as well. Designed by Callum, the firm led by former Jaguar and Aston Martin designer Ian Callum, the car features a wider body and additional vents. The iconic pop-up headlights of the original have been retained, now equipped with modern LED lighting. The wheels have also been upgraded, with 19-inch forged alloy rims replacing the original ones.
The modifications on the F355 Evoluto are claimed to have improved the car’s torsional rigidity by 23%, making it stronger and more robust. (Picture from: TopGear)
Inside, the F355 Evoluto boasts a completely redesigned dashboard and high-quality materials far superior to the original F355’s. The 1990s version was known for its use of cheap switchgear from Euro-spec Fiats, but the Evoluto takes luxury to a new level. Despite these changes, the centerpiece remains the iconic open-gate manual six-speed gearshift, a nod to the car’s rich heritage.
Inside, the F355 Evoluto boasts a completely redesigned dashboard and high-quality materials far superior to the original F355’s. (Picture from: TopGear)
Under the hood, the F355 Evoluto is powered by an 8,500-rpm naturally aspirated V8 engine that now delivers 420 horsepower, a 40-hp increase from the original. This boost is achieved through larger inlet valves, solid lifters, a new inlet camshaft for each cylinder head, and a lightweight titanium sports exhaust. Buyers can also opt for carbon ceramic brakes instead of the standard cast-iron rotors, enhancing the car’s performance and stopping power.
The F355 Evoluto is powered by an 8,500-rpm naturally aspirated V8 engine that now delivers 420 horsepower, a 40-hp increase from the original ones. (Picture from: TopGear)
The inspiration behind Evoluto’s work can be traced back to Amjad Ali, the Technical Director who previously worked at Gunther Werks, a renowned Porsche restomodder. The F355 Evoluto targets a similar high-end market and is part of the DRVN Group in the UK, which is also set to produce restomods of some of Ford’s high-performance models.
The F355 Evoluto features a wider body and additional vents, achieving a more aggressive look, while the LED taillight rings modernize the overall appearance. (Picture from: TopGear)
Production of the F355 Evoluto is limited to just 55 units, all to be manufactured in Coventry, England. Prospective buyers must provide an original F355 as the foundation for the transformation. Each car will be a coupe with a manual transmission, offering a bespoke driving experience tailored to individual preferences. While pricing details remain undisclosed, it’s expected that the cost will approach the $1 million mark, reflecting the extensive customization options available. Since there are no videos related to the F355 Evoluto, here is a video about 7 interesting custom cars instead.
The F355 Evoluto is set to make its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in England, with another appearance at Monterey Car Week in August. This modernized classic is poised to captivate audiences and reaffirm the timeless appeal of Ferrari’s mid-engined marvel. From a car once considered the worst Ferrari ever made to a beautifully restored and enhanced masterpiece, the journey of the F355, culminating in the F355 Evoluto, is a testament to the power of innovation and passion in the automotive world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | EVOLUTO AUTOMOBILI | TOPGEAR | ROADANDTRACK | CARBUZZ | CLASSICDRIVER ]
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The ONE & ONLY - Imagine the excitement of a forgotten dream coming to life after over 90 years. The Auto Union Silver Arrows, renowned for their dominance in 1930s Grand Prix racing, hold a little-known secret: a planned street-legal sports car with a 16-cylinder engine. This concept, known as the Auto Union Typ 52 'Schnellsportwagen,' has now been realized by Audi and is set to debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024 in mid-July.
The Auto Union Typ 52 'Schnellsportwagen,' originally a street-legal variant of Porsche-developed race cars for Auto Union, saw design sketches emerging by late 1933, solidifying by 1934, but the project was abandoned in 1935. (Picture from: Autogen.pl)
Classic BEAST - In 2024, the automotive industry has reached new heights, but there are still very few cars that can exceed 400 kph. This level of speed remains an extraordinary achievement, often reserved for the most advanced supercars and hypercars. However, it's fascinating to note that such a feat was accomplished as far back as 1937. Bernd Rosemeyer, a renowned racing driver of his time, managed to break this speed barrier in the Auto Union Typ C Stromlinen powered by 520PS V16 drivetrain.
The replica of the 1937 Auto Union Typ C V16 Stromlinen of Bernd Rosemeyer rested in the company’s museum. (Picture from: Car & Motorbikes Stars of the Golden era)
This car, a marvel of engineering and design, was not only a symbol of technological innovation but also of human ambition and daring. Today, only two original cars of this type exist worldwide, serving as precious relics of a bygone era when the pursuit of speed was pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible. The Auto Union Typ C Stromlinen, with its sleek, aerodynamic design and powerful engine, remains a testament to the ingenuity and spirit of the pre-war automotive pioneers.
The evocative shape of the Typ C Stromlinen must have caused quite a sensation in 1937. The design, especially notable in the post-war period, influenced many production cars. This Auto Union was specifically crafted for top speed on the Avus circuit near Berlin, which was the fastest track in the world at that time.
In 1937, Avus faced competition from the Norisring in Nuremberg. To attract more attention, Avus’s layout was extended to include a high-speed 43° banked turn made from brick. This addition launched cars onto the main straight, allowing them to reach nearly 248.40 mph (400 kph).
Bernd Rosemeyer, behind the wheel of the Auto Union Type C V16 Streamliner, sped through the high-speed 43° banked turn made of brick at Avus.(Picture from: Car & Motorbikes Stars of the Golden era)
The Internationales Avus Rennen main event was a highlight, featuring record-breaking cars from Auto Union and Mercedes-Benz. Both companies thoroughly developed their cars and conducted multiple tests on Avus before the race. The track, known for its speed, was also the most dangerous. The curve at the top lacked a fence, earning it the nickname ‘Wall of Death’. Despite the dangers, 18 brave drivers entered the race, and 300,000 to 400,000 spectators attended to witness the fastest pre-war race ever run.
The replica of the Auto Union Typ C V16 Stromlinen (sat on display at Laguna Seca) was built nearly 70 years later, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. (Picture from: TamSoldRaceCarSite.net)
The race was divided into three seven-lap sprints, with grids of only six or eight cars. Four streamliners were included, evenly split between Mercedes and Auto Union, racing alongside regular-season Grand Prix cars. The streamliners had an advantage on the long straights of Avus, while the GP cars excelled on the curves.
The replica of Bernd Rosemeyer's 1937 Auto Union Type C V16 Streamliner made its first public appearance in 2009 to celebrate 100 years of Audi at the Geneva Motor Show and the Goodwood Festival of Speed.(Picture from: WeirdWheel)
At the start, Rudolf Caracciola in the Mercedes and Bernd Rosemeyer in the Auto Union engaged in a fierce battle, which lasted until the last lap when they were side-by-side. Ultimately, Caracciola won, finishing just 0.7 seconds ahead of Rosemeyer.
The replica of the 1937 Auto Union Typ C V16 Stromlinen of Bernd Rosemeyer, while sat on display at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
The second heat was even faster, featuring a duel between Manfred von Brauchitsch and Luigi Fagioli in streamliners. Fagioli retired due to transmission problems, allowing Von Brauchitsch to secure an easy win for Mercedes. Meanwhile, Hermann Lang's Mercedes-Benz Streamliner suffered a tire failure at high speed, but Lang managed to keep the car straight enough to survive.
The replica of the 1937 Auto Union Typ C V16 Stromlinen of Bernd Rosemeyer while sat on display at the 2009 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: ZerCustoms)
The third and final heat determined the overall victor, with a combined group from the first two races. Four streamliners competed: Brauchitsch, Caracciola, and Lang in Mercedes against Rosemeyer in the Auto Union. Unfortunately for Rosemeyer, his V16 was only running on 13 cylinders, and he was outnumbered. Eventually, Lang went on to win the entire event. This would be the only time someone scored a victory using the full track, as it was deemed too dangerous to repeat in 1938.
By 1937, Auto Union had been actively making streamlined record cars for three years. Their first attempt was with a long-tail Typ A, followed by the striking Rekordwagen Typ Lucca Coupe. Although Auto Union might have considered using these designs in a normal Grand Prix race, this never happened.
The Audi Rosemeyer concept car was created in 2000 to pay tribute to the Auto Union Silver Arrows (German: Silberpfeil), driven by the legendary German racer, Bernd Rosemeyer. (Picture from: GridOto)
A streamlined Typ D did appear at Reims for the 1938 French GP but crashed heavily during practice. Sadly, the only record of these cars exists in pictures. After a run of 279 mph, Bernd Rosemeyer tragically lost his life in January 1938 when the special Auto Union went out of control on the Frankfurt-Darmstadt autobahn. A replica of the 1937 Avus car was made to exact specifications for Audi Tradition, preserving the legacy of this remarkable vehicle. To further commemorate the great German racer Bernd Rosemeyer, Audi launched a concept car in his honor in 2000, named the Audi Rosemeyer.
The Auto Union Typ C V16 Stromlinen, with its revolutionary design and incredible speed, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and bravery of an era that pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering. This remarkable piece of history continues to inspire car enthusiasts and engineers, reminding us of a time when the pursuit of speed knew no bounds. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CAR & MOTORBIKES STARS OF THE GOLDEN ERA | TAMSOLDRACECARSITE.NET | AUTOGEN.PL | BRITANICA | SUPERCARS.NET | ZERCUSTOMS | INFERNALCO.CO ]
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Imaginary Concept - The world of luxury automobiles is rich with history and innovation, and Bugatti is a name that stands tall among the elite. Known for its speed, elegance, and groundbreaking design, Bugatti has faced numerous challenges over the decades. The late eighties saw a notable revival effort with the Bugatti EB110, a model that marked a significant turning point for the brand. However, there were intriguing concepts in the seventies and eighties that many might not be aware of, one of which is the fascinating imaginary Bugatti Type 105.
This imaginary Bugatti Type 105 concept by designer Nikita Bridan portrays Roland Bugatti's final attempt to revive the brand in 1984. (Picture from: Pinterest)
The Bugatti Type 105, although not a real car, represents an imaginative piece of automotive history. Created by the talented designer Nikita Bridan, this concept captures the spirit of early-80s design. Bridan's vision featured a recessed front grill and integrated headlights in the front bumper, a bold and distinctive choice. The design was presented in Bridan's blog as a fictional narrative of Roland Bugatti, the last heir of Ettore Bugatti, making one final attempt to revive the brand in 1984.
This
imaginary Bugatti Type 105 concept by designer Nikita Bridan portrays
Roland Bugatti's final attempt to revive the brand in 1984.(Picture from: Silodrome)
This imagined design faced several hypothetical challenges. The Type 105 aimed to be the first digital supercar, equipped with advanced computer assists and software for enhanced control. Despite its forward-thinking approach, early prototype road tests, as narrated by Bridan, received poor feedback.
This
imaginary Bugatti Type 105 concept by designer Nikita Bridan portrays
Roland Bugatti's final attempt to revive the brand in 1984. (Picture from: DrivenToWrite)
Critics highlighted a significant lack of feedback and inconsistency in the assists, leading to poor driving dynamics. This negative feedback ultimately led to the imagined failure of the Type 105, and Bugatti remained dormant until the actual introduction of the Bugatti EB110 during Romano Artioli's era in the early nineties.
This
imaginary Bugatti Type 105 concept by designer Nikita Bridan portrays
Roland Bugatti's final attempt to revive the brand in 1984. (Picture from: DrivenToWrite)
While the Type 105 was purely a conceptual creation, it remains a
captivating "what if" in the realm of automotive history. Its design was
ahead of its time, attempting to merge traditional automotive
craftsmanship with the then-emerging digital technologies. The recessed
front grill and integrated headlights, though polarizing, showcased a
daring attempt at innovation.
This
imaginary Bugatti Type 105 concept by designer Nikita Bridan portrays
Roland Bugatti's final attempt to revive the brand in 1984.(Picture from: Silodrome)
The story of the Bugatti Type 105 underscores the creativity and
imagination of designers like Nikita Bridan, who dared to envision what
Bugatti could be. This imaginative exercise reflects the enduring
fascination with Bugatti's legacy and the endless possibilities for its
future in automotive design. Even though the Type 105 never existed in
reality, it highlights the passion and forward-thinking mindset that
continues to drive the brand.
This
imaginary Bugatti Type 105 concept by designer Nikita Bridan portrays
Roland Bugatti's final attempt to revive the brand in 1984.(Picture from: BugattiRevue)
In another interesting turn of events, a 1999 design proposal by Walter
de'Silva for a new VW-Bugatti eventually evolved into the Veyron, a
completely different design. This progression illustrates the continuous
evolution and resilience of the Bugatti brand, adapting and
transforming through various eras and technological advancements.
This
imaginary Bugatti Type 105 concept by designer Nikita Bridan portrays
Roland Bugatti's final attempt to revive the brand in 1984.(Picture from: BugattiRevue)
The tale of the Bugatti Type 105, though fictional, is a testament to the enduring allure and innovation associated with the Bugatti name. It serves as a reminder of the limitless potential of automotive design and the creative minds that push the boundaries of what is possible. The Type 105, in all its imagined glory, continues to inspire and captivate, might adding a unique chapter to the storied history of Bugatti. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | NIKITA BRIDAN | SILODROME | BUGATTIREVUE | DRIVEN TO WRITE | AVERAGE GUYS CAR RESTORATION, MODS , AND RACING ]
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In the end, the T140 6000 stands as a testament to Abarth's daring vision and the unpredictable nature of the racing world. While the prototype may never roar across the finish line, its legacy lives on, a symbol of ambition, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of racing excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | EN.ESCUDERIA | ROADANDTRACK | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS | WIKIPEDIA ]
