Unique ONES - The world of automotive design has always thrived on innovation and creativity, often drawing inspiration from unexpected places. One example is Cardi, a Russian automotive studio that has been quietly but persistently building its reputation for over two decades. Their journey into the world of niche car manufacturing is both fascinating and inspiring.
The Cardi Body Roadster (right) stands alongside its sibling, the 1998 Cardi Curara (left). (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sports Cars)
This journey started in the mid-1990s, an era when Russia wasn’t particularly known for producing eye-catching or performance-oriented vehicles. Cardi, however, sought to change that narrative, and their early projects have left a mark on Russia's automotive landscape. Cardi made its debut in the Russian car market in 1995 with its first creation, the Cardi Body roadster.
The Cardi Body roadster was built with a fiberglass body, sitting on the chassis of a Lada/VAZ-2106 and powered by a modest 4-cylinder, 1568cc engine capable of producing 90 horsepower. (Picture from: Automotive-Heritage)
This car was introduced at the Moscow International Motor Show, where it received positive feedback from both the public and the media. It was a significant moment for Cardi, as the positive reception of their work encouraged them to move forward with confidence. The Body roadster was no ordinary car; it was designed to challenge conventional ideas of what Russian automotive engineering could achieve, blending aesthetics with functionality in a way that had not been seen before.
The Cardi Body roadster was introduced at the Moscow International Motor Show, where it received positive feedback from both the public and the media. (Picture from: Classic And Recreation Sports Cars)
The Body roadster was built with a fiberglass body, sitting on the chassis of a Lada/VAZ-2106 and powered by a modest 4-cylinder, 1568 cc engine capable of producing 90 horsepower.
The Cardi Body roadster was no ordinary car; it was designed to challenge conventional ideas of what Russian automotive engineering could achieve, blending aesthetics with functionality in a way that had not been seen before. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Although it wasn’t designed to be a high-performance vehicle, the combination of lightweight materials and a compact design made the Body roadster an interesting option for those who wanted a stylish and unique car. The roadster was also fitted with a 4-speed manual transmission, giving it a more engaging driving experience, even if it wasn’t the fastest car on the road. Its appearance at the Moscow show marked the beginning of Cardi’s ambition to make a name for itself in the automotive world.
The Cardi Body roadster impresses with its minimalist yet luxurious interior, showcasing Cardi’s meticulous attention to detail through the use of English Connolly leather and polished metal. (Picture from: Auto.Vercity.ru)
Cardi’s design language was bold and expressive, especially considering the context of the Russian car market at the time. While most Russian cars were focused on practicality and affordability, Cardi dared to push the boundaries of design and luxury.
The Cardi Body roadster appearance at the Moscow show marked the beginning of Cardi’s ambition to make a name for itself in the automotive world. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Cardi's commitment to blending performance, design, and exclusivity has made them a name to watch, even if they remain relatively unknown outside of certain circles. From their modest beginnings with the Body roadster to their more advanced projects like the Curara and Body II, Cardi has proven that Russian automotive design has its own unique taste.
Ultimately, Cardi's journey is a testament to the power of persistence and creativity in an industry dominated by giants. Their ability to continually push boundaries and challenge expectations has helped them survive in a competitive market. Each of their vehicles tells a story of innovation, ambition, and the desire to create something unique, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who encounters them. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARDI.RU| STORY-CARS | AUTA5P | CARSTYLING.RU | ALLCARINDEX | AUTO.VERCITY.RU | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTS CARS | AUTOMOTIVE-HERITAGE ]
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ONE-OFF - When we delve into the world of supercars, especially those crafted by renowned German manufacturers, the conversation can seem endless. Among the many awe-inspiring models that have been developed by Mercedes-Benz, there exists a supercar that, despite its remarkable features, remains largely unfamiliar to the general public and even to some automotive enthusiasts. This hidden gem is none other than the Mercedes-Benz C112, a supercar that not only stands out for its performance but also for its relative obscurity.
The Mercedes-Benz C112 emerged as a concept supercar in response to the German manufacturer’s triumphant return to motor racing in the late 1980s. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscar)
Rare RIDES - Lancia has always held a unique place in automotive history, celebrated for its innovation and relentless pursuit of performance. This Italian brand, established over a century ago, has produced numerous remarkable cars that not only thrived on the racetrack but also left a lasting impact on automotive design. Among Lancia's iconic vehicles, the Lancia Stratos HF remains a revered symbol of the brand's golden era in motorsport during the 1970s and 1980s. The Stratos HF’s dominance in rally racing established Lancia as a formidable force, setting a high standard for performance and engineering.
The first series of the Lancia Beta Montecarlo, designed by Paolo Martin of Pininfarina between 1969 and 1971, debuted at the 1975 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
However, beyond the well-known icons like the Stratos, Lancia also crafted other models that, while lesser-known, still showcased the brand’s ingenuity and commitment to high-performance design. One such car is the Lancia Scorpion, known as the Beta 'Montecarlo' in other markets—a unique vehicle that blended Italian design flair with robust engineering.
Cutting-edge processes, such as 3D digitization of all reference points on the Lancia Montecarlo body, have been carried out since the beginning of its development. (Picture from: LanciaMontecarloClub)
The story of the Lancia Scorpion begins in the early 1970s when it was initially envisioned as a sophisticated version of the Fiat X1/9. Fiat’s ambitious X1/20 project aimed to create a compact, mid-engined sports car that would appeal to drivers seeking performance and style. Under the hood, the car was originally planned to house the powerful 3.2-liter V-6 engine from the Fiat 130, providing a significant boost in performance.
The Lancia Montecarlo (pictured is the 1976 model) was sold under the Scorpion nameplate in the U.S., showcased the brand’s ingenuity and
commitment to high-performance design.(Picture from: TheTruthAboutCars)
However, the project soon took a different direction, with Abarth, Fiat’s performance division, refining the car for motorsport purposes. This prototype, known as the Abarth SE030, had a promising debut, securing second place in the 1974 Giro d'Italia—a testament to its racing potential. Yet, as the oil crisis loomed and market demand for powerful sports cars waned, Fiat re-evaluated the project, leading to a shift in focus from outright performance to a more balanced, marketable sports car that could thrive in a new era of motoring.
The
Lancia Montecarlo (pictured is the 1976 model) was sold under the
Scorpion nameplate in the U.S. market to avoid conflict with Chevrolet’s
Monte Carlo. (Picture from: TheTruthAboutCars)
With economic constraints and changing consumer priorities, the Lancia Scorpion emerged as a refined version of the X1/20 project. Pininfarina, the legendary Italian design house, subtly reimagined the car, giving it a unique aesthetic that stood out while aligning it with the Lancia Beta series. The Scorpion incorporated the reliable Fiat Lampredi twin-cam, four-cylinder engine, offering a spirited yet efficient performance that matched the era's needs.
Interior view of the Lancia Beta 'Montecarlo,' known as the Scorpion in
the U.S. market (pictured is the 1976 model). (Picture from: TheTruthAboutCars)
The car's final iteration debuted at the 1975 Geneva Auto Show, showcasing a sleek, mid-engined design that reflected Lancia’s passion for innovation. Named the Montecarlo in European markets in honor of Lancia’s rally success, the car was branded as the Scorpion in the United States to avoid conflict with Chevrolet’s Monte Carlo. This name choice was perhaps a subtle nod to its Abarth heritage, linking it to the fierce scorpion emblem synonymous with Abarth’s performance legacy.
The
Lancia Montecarlo, known as the Scorpion in
the U.S. market (pictured is the 1976 model), stands as a testament to
Lancia's commitment to creating cars that are more than just machines. (Picture from: TheTruthAboutCars)
As the Lancia Scorpion made its way to American shores, it encountered the challenges of stringent U.S. regulations, which significantly altered the car’s performance and appearance. Unlike its European counterpart, which boasted a 2.0-liter engine delivering around 120 horsepower, the American-spec Scorpion was fitted with a 1.8-liter variant, choked by emissions controls that reduced its output to a modest 81 horsepower. These changes, coupled with mandatory 5-mph impact bumpers, added extra weight, diminishing the Scorpion’s agility and slightly marring its sleek European design.
The Lancia Beta 'Montecarlo,' known as the Scorpion in
the U.S. market (pictured is the 1977 model). (Picture from: MotorTrend)
Additionally, flip-up headlights were modified to comply with U.S. standards, giving the car a distinctive, albeit slightly awkward, look. Despite these compromises, the Scorpion retained an allure with its open-top Spider configuration, a unique offering that distinguished it from the Montecarlo coupe available in Europe.
The view inside the engine bay of the Lancia Montecarlo, known as the Scorpion in the U.S. market (pictured is the 1977 model). (Picture from: MotorTrend)
Driving the Lancia Scorpion was an experience that blended exhilaration with a sense of delicacy. While not as powerful as some of its contemporaries, the Scorpion's mid-engine layout and rear-wheel-drive configuration offered balanced handling, making it a joy to navigate winding roads. Period journalists often compared the Scorpion’s driving dynamics to the revered Ferrari Dino, highlighting its precise steering and responsiveness.
The
Lancia Beta 'Montecarlo,' known as the Scorpion in the U.S. market
(pictured is the 1978 model). (Picture from: MotorTrend)
However, the car’s braking system, which only applied the booster to the front disc brakes, was occasionally problematic, particularly in wet conditions, where front wheels were prone to locking. This quirk added a layer of excitement, requiring drivers to maintain a steady hand and an acute awareness of the car’s behavior under various conditions.
The Lancia Montecarlo, known as the Scorpion in
the U.S. market (pictured is the 1978 model), powered by a 1.8-liter variant, choked by emissions controls that reduced its output to a modest 81 horsepower. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
The Lancia Scorpion, despite its limitations, holds a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts and collectors. It represents an era when Lancia, under the Fiat umbrella, was willing to push boundaries and embrace daring designs that challenged conventional norms. Today, the Scorpion remains a symbol of Lancia’s spirit, embodying both the ambition and the creativity that characterized the brand during the 1970s.
The Lancia Scorpion in
the U.S. market (pictured is the 1977 model), remains a symbol of Lancia’s spirit, embodying both the ambition and the creativity that characterized the brand during the 1970s. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
Though it never achieved the same level of fame as the Stratos or other Lancia legends, the Scorpion stands as a testament to Lancia's commitment to creating cars that are more than just machines—they are expressions of passion and artistry. For those who admire automotive history, the Lancia Scorpion offers a unique glimpse into a time when car manufacturers were unafraid to experiment and take risks. The Scorpion may not have been the fastest or the most powerful, but its distinctive design, combined with its storied development and link to Abarth’s racing legacy, makes it a fascinating chapter in Lancia’s legacy.
Today, this Italian sports car continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts worldwide, celebrated for its charm, quirks, and undeniable Italian flair. As we look back on the legacy of the Lancia Scorpion, we are reminded of a time when automotive design was as much about character and soul as it was about speed and performance, a philosophy that continues to inspire generations of car lovers around the world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LANCIA MONTECARLO CLUB | MOTORTREND | WIKIPEDIA | VW VORTEX | CLASSIC | BRINGATRAILER | THETRUTHABOUTCARS | CLASSICITALIANCARSFORSALE ]
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The Legend - The Toyota Land Cruiser has long been an emblem of ruggedness and reliability, revered among off-road enthusiasts. Its impressive capabilities have made it a favorite for navigating challenging terrains, especially in areas like the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru route in East Java, Indonesia.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 Series, known for its impressive capabilities, has become a favorite for navigating challenging terrains, especially in areas like the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru route in East Java, Indonesia. (Picture from: Jip.Gridoto)
The story of this iconic SUV is not just about its remarkable performance but also its rich history that began in the aftermath of the Korean War. In 1950, amidst global conflict, the United States sought dependable military vehicles, prompting Toyota to step up to the challenge. Thus, the foundation for the Land Cruiser was laid.
The Toyota AK10 prototype served as the precursor to the Land Cruiser. (Picture from: CintaMobil)
The initial step in this journey was the development of a military truck capable of handling rough conditions. Toyota’s first prototype, the Toyota AK10, was presented to Japan’s National Police Reserve. However, it wasn’t an immediate success, as the authorities preferred competing brands.
The Toyota Jeep BJ was renamed the Land Cruiser in 1954, marking the beginning of the first generation of Toyota's SUV.(Picture from: HargaToyota)
Undeterred, Toyota refined their design, creating the Toyota Jeep BJ, which showcased its rugged capability when it successfully ascended Mount Fuji. This demonstration turned the tide, earning Toyota the contract to supply vehicles for the military. By 1954, the name was changed to Land Cruiser, marking the beginning of its transformation into a civilian icon.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ20 Series was launched in 1955, marking the transition from a military vehicle to one intended for civilian use.(Picture from: Silodrome)
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ20 Series, launched in 1955, marked the beginning of the Land Cruiser's transformation from a government vehicle to a cherished off-roader among the public. Since then, the model name prefix 'FJ' has represented 'Fuji Jeep.' With an updated design, it boasted a roomier interior and a more rounded body frame.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 Series of the 1960s is known for featuring more advanced technology than previous models and for offering various driving modes. (Picture from: CintaMobil)
The following decades saw significant advancements, notably in the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 Series, which introduced innovative driving modes. These included options tailored for various terrains, further enhancing its reputation as a versatile vehicle. Its popularity soared, especially in the United States, where the Land Cruiser became synonymous with adventure and durability.
The Toyota Land Cruiser Station Wagon FJ55 Series was first launched in 1967, addressing the public's need for family recreation. (Picture from: CintaMobil)
As the years progressed, so did the Land Cruiser's design and functionality. The Toyota Land Cruiser Station Wagon FJ55 Series, introduced in 1967, catered to families, featuring a more spacious interior while retaining its formidable off-road capabilities.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60 Series was first launched in 1980, and has a better efficiency level than previous models. (Picture from: CintaMobil)
This evolution continued with the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60 Series in 1980, designed to be a comfortable family vehicle while addressing the global oil crisis with enhanced performance efficiency. The Land Cruiser’s adaptability to changing consumer needs solidified its status in the automotive market.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ70 Series, produced since 1984, replaced the 25-year-old FJ40 Series as the off-road model in the Land Cruiser range. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Meanwhile, the next model, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ70 Series, has been produced since 1984. This series replaced the 25-year-old FJ40 Series as the off-road model in the Land Cruiser range, while the contemporary FJ60 Series evolved into a more comfortable luxury SUV, starting with the FJ80 Series. Despite significant changes in styling and various technological updates, the FJ70 Series was designed to retain the off-road capability and durability associated with the FJ40 Series.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ80 Series was first launched in 1989, offers luxurious elements on all sides. (Picture from: CintaMobil)
In the late 1980s, the Land Cruiser underwent another transformation with the introduction of the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ80 Series. This iteration combined luxury with off-road prowess, appealing to a broader audience. By integrating advanced features like all-wheel drive and a refined interior, Toyota positioned the Land Cruiser as not just a tough SUV but also a stylish option for discerning drivers. The success of this series paved the way for further innovations, leading to the release of the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ100 Series in 1996, which emphasized user comfort and incorporated cutting-edge technology for enhanced driving experiences.
Toyota released the Land Cruiser FJ100 Series Station Wagon in 1996, appearing increasingly tough not only on Off-Road terrain but also On-Road.(Picture from: CintaMobil)
Fast forward to the 21st century, and the Land Cruiser continues to be a benchmark for excellence. The latest model, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ200 Series, boasts a robust suspension and a powerful 5.7-liter engine, enabling it to conquer the toughest terrains. Its impressive specifications, including a Twin-Turbo V8 Diesel engine capable of generating 286 hp, ensure that the Land Cruiser remains a formidable force in the off-road segment.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ200 Series Station Wagon in 2007, offers more powerful engine performance than the previous generation.(Picture from: CintaMobil)
Significant changes were made to the Toyota Land Cruiser J300 Series in June 2021, including an increase in overall length, width, and wheelbase, making the vehicle more robust and ready for various terrains with the updated driving system. Utilizing a new, lighter platform, this model features a more boxy and luxurious design. The V8 engine has been replaced by a twin-turbo V6 unit producing 415 PS and 650 Nm of torque, as well as a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 diesel engine generating 309 PS and 700 Nm of torque, both paired with a 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission.
The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ300 Series released in June 2021, offers more powerful engine performance than the previous generation.(Picture from: CintaMobil)
Throughout its storied history, the Toyota Land Cruiser
has continually adapted to meet the demands of its users while staying
true to its roots as a durable off-road vehicle. Its journey from a
military truck to a luxurious SUV encapsulates the spirit of innovation
and resilience that Toyota embodies. As it roams the rugged landscapes of East Java or the bustling streets of urban centers, the Land Cruiser remains a testament to Toyota's dedication to quality and performance.
The legacy of the Land Cruiser goes beyond its ability to navigate challenging terrains; it encompasses the unforgettable experiences it creates for both drivers and passengers. We acknowledge that many Toyota Land Cruiser models may have been overlooked in this discussion, and we apologize for that. The arrangement of Land Cruiser models in this article primarily reflects those that are available in Our country, Indonesia. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TUNAS TOYOTA | SILODROME | FJ.CO | WIKIPEDIA ]
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⚠️Grandpa Masterpiece💣 - Creativity in the automotive world knows no age limits. Even an elderly grandfather can succeed in making his dream car. Kristi D. Johnson's grandpa, Wes, went viral on TikTok with his inspiring journey. He didn't attend college until his 30s, graduating from medical school at 41. Despite the challenges, in his retirement, he built the Creager Hybrid—a crowning achievement of ingenuity, passion, and determination.
A unique red Cadillac Eldorado convertible custom, known as the Creager Hybrid, was showcased at the Nashville Good Guys 2012. (Picture from: LegendaryCollectorCars)
Wes proudly introduced the Creager Hybrid, a custom-built red Cadillac Eldorado made from at least ten different cars, all sourced from junkyards. The idea for this unique creation began 30 years ago when a race car driver friend offered him a Cadillac Eldorado with the biggest engine Cadillac made. Although it was front-wheel drive, Wes envisioned a rear-driven sports car, so he started planning his build, storing the car at an airport. Starting the build in 1996 and finishing around 2000, the Creager Hybrid highlights Wes Johnson's dedication and skill.
He found a frame in a junkyard that matched the Cadillac's width, welded it together, and slowly pieced together his masterpiece. The Creager Hybrid truly lives up to its name. The grill is from a modified GMC pickup, the front suspension from a Mustang, and the headlights from a Mazda. The front features an old Cadillac hood with custom-shaped fenders. The windshield is from a Ford pickup, and the doors are from a Chevy Camaro. The hubcaps come from a Lincoln Continental, and the rear is a modified Cadillac with shortened fenders and a custom trunk lid.
A unique red Cadillac Eldorado convertible custom, known as the Creager Hybrid, was showcased at the Nashville Good Guys 2012. (Picture from: Kristi D. Johnson's Pages in TikTok )
Inside the Creager Hybrid, Wes’s craftsmanship shines. He meticulously shaped and laminated wood for the interior, covered with vinyl for a polished look. The original Cadillac hood mechanism was preserved for functionality, and the metal fenders were skillfully welded to create perfect curves.
The front end of the Creager Hybrid, the only part not made of metal, is entirely fiberglass. Wes constructed forms from wood, covered them with styrofoam, and shaped them to fit, adding a heavy rope for extra strength. The headlights, which lift with a spring-loaded window raiser from a Ford, automatically turn on when raised.
Wes designed the gas tank to serve a dual purpose:holding gas and channeling air to the rear engine for cooling. Furthermore, he customized each part of the Creager Hybrid, meticulously cutting, bending, and welding the fenders to achieve the perfect shape. He then encountered another challenge when the carburetor protruded through the trunk lid. To address this, he created a wooden mold, covered it with fiberglass, and fashioned a Continental kit to conceal it.
To address engine cooling challenges, Wes installed three radiators—one in the front, one for the hydraulic fluid, and the original radiator near the engine. With its 8.2-liter engine, racing cam, high-performance carburetor, and competition torque converter, the Creager Hybrid is a powerful machine. Despite its impressive capabilities, Wes drives it with great care.
Uniquely, the car is insured and registered as a 1970 Cadillac Eldorado, ensuring it’s road-legal. The Creager Hybrid is more than just a custom car—it’s a story of resilience, creativity, and passion. Wes Johnson’s meticulous craftsmanship and innovative problem-solving have resulted in a unique masterpiece. |
Rotary BEAST - The Mazda RX-7 FD3S, a renowned sports car, was initially launched with a sleek aerodynamic design and a 2-door coupe body style. This vehicle quickly became a canvas for rotary engine tuning specialists, particularly RE Amemiya. The RX-7 served as the foundation for countless modifications and innovations, showcasing the endless creativity of this legendary tuning company. Over the years, RE Amemiya has participated in numerous modification contests and racing events, always pushing the boundaries of what the RX-7 could become.
The Genki 7 was one of the most notable RE Amemiya's car creations that made its debut at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon. (Picture from: RE Amemiya)
Unique ONES - In the realm of automotive achievements, exceptional accomplishments often receive a unique form of recognition. This is especially true in the world of motorsports, where the triumphs of racers and their machines are immortalized through special editions. One such instance is the Schuppan 962CR, one of six cars born out of a remarkable victory and a passion for excellence.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: KatanaLtd)
Australian racing legend Vern Schuppan, in tribute to his monumental win at the 1983 24 Hours of Le Mans, embarked on an ambitious project to create a street-legal version of the iconic Porsche 962 racer. This endeavor resulted in the creation of the Schuppan 962CR, a car that not only paid homage to his success but also stood as a testament to innovation and craftsmanship in the automotive industry.
The Schuppan 962CR was crafted to pay homage to Vern Schuppan's monumental win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans behind the wheel of a Porsche 956 and its successor 962. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Vern Schuppan’s journey to create the 962CR was fueled by his desire to commemorate his 1983 Le Mans victory, where he piloted a Porsche 956 to triumph. The Porsche 956, and its successor, the 962, became legendary in the world of endurance racing, dominating the tracks and securing over 130 victories.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: StuttCars)
These cars were revered for their engineering brilliance and competitive prowess, making them the perfect blueprint for Schuppan’s ambitious project. With backing from Japanese investors, Schuppan set out to transform the race-bred 962 into a machine that could be driven on public roads, while retaining the spirit and performance of its racing counterpart.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The Schuppan 962CR was produced between 1992 and 1994, during which time Schuppan collaborated closely with Porsche to bring his vision to life. The car was built around a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, a cutting-edge design at the time. Reynard Motorsport, a prominent name in motorsport engineering, was tasked with constructing the carbon monocoques, while Schuppan himself oversaw the bodywork.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: BingoWorldSports)
The design of the 962CR borrowed heavily from the original 962 race car, ensuring that the lineage of this iconic machine was preserved in every detail. Schuppan’s meticulous approach to the project was evident in every aspect of the car’s construction, from the lightweight chassis to the powerful engine that lay at its heart.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The engine that powered the 962CR was a water-cooled, 3.3-liter Type-935 Flat-6, equipped with twin KKK turbochargers. This engine, capable of producing 600 horsepower, was the only Porsche-sourced component in the car. It was a slightly modified version of the engine used in the 962C that competed in the North American IMSA GT Championship.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The power from this engine was transmitted to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, allowing the car to achieve a top speed of 230 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. The use of titanium fasteners throughout the car further highlighted the attention to detail and commitment to performance that defined the 962CR.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The construction of the 962CR was a complex and costly endeavor. Schuppan initially planned to build 25 units, with the cars being assembled by Modena Cars in High Wycombe, England. However, due to financial difficulties, only six cars were ultimately produced. Each car was built to comply with either Japanese or German safety regulations, ensuring that they could be legally driven on the roads in those countries. Despite the challenges faced during production, the Schuppan 962CR was a marvel of engineering, combining the raw power and performance of a race car with the sophistication required for a road-legal vehicle.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
The price of the 962CR reflected its exclusivity and the level of craftsmanship involved in its creation. Originally priced at ¥195 million, equivalent to around $1.5 million USD in 1994, the car was one of the most expensive vehicles ever produced at the time. Unfortunately, the high cost of production and financial setbacks led to the downfall of Schuppan’s company.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never
heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le
Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
After shipping two cars to Japan, payment issues forced Schuppan to declare bankruptcy, marking the end of the 962CR’s production run. Despite this, the car has become a prized possession among collectors, with its value only increasing over the years. Today, the Schuppan 962CR is considered a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item, with prices starting at $1.9 million USD.
The legacy of the Schuppan 962CR is one of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. Although only six cars were built, and four remain today due to one being destroyed in a fire, the 962CR stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when a racing legend channels his experience and knowledge into creating something truly extraordinary.
One of the coolest 1990s supercars you probably never heard about, the 962CR was a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 Le Mans Group C prototype. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Vern Schuppan’s vision to create a street-legal version of the Porsche 962 not only honored his own achievements on the track but also left a lasting impact on the world of high-performance sports cars. The 962CR remains a testament to the ingenuity and determination of those who dare to dream big, and its place in automotive history is forever secured.
The story of the Schuppan 962CR is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, greatness can be achieved. The car serves as a bridge between the thrilling world of motorsport and the precision engineering required to create road-legal vehicles, offering a glimpse into what is possible when passion and expertise come together. Though the 962CR may have been Vern Schuppan’s only car creation, its legacy continues to inspire and captivate automotive enthusiasts around the world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KATANA LTD. | HYPEBEAST | AUTOEVOLUTION | STUTTCARS | BINGOSPORTSWORLD | SUPERCARS.NET | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Ultimately, Cardi's journey is a testament to the power of persistence and creativity in an industry dominated by giants. Their ability to continually push boundaries and challenge expectations has helped them survive in a competitive market. Each of their vehicles tells a story of innovation, ambition, and the desire to create something unique, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who encounters them. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARDI.RU | STORY-CARS | AUTA5P | CARSTYLING.RU | ALLCARINDEX | AUTO.VERCITY.RU | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTS CARS | AUTOMOTIVE-HERITAGE ]
