Italian Excellence: Exploring the Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer BB

Iconic ONES - Embark on an exhilarating journey through automotive history with the Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer BB, a timeless icon that has left an indelible mark on the world of luxury sports cars. Unveiled in 1973 at the prestigious Paris Motor Show, this masterpiece instantly captured attention with its groundbreaking design and unmatched performance capabilities, produced by Ferrari in Maranello, Italy between 1973 and 1984.

The Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer was the first model of the series, produced from 1973 to 1976, with 387 units ever produced. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Crafted under the visionary guidance of Leonardo Fioravanti from Carrozzeria Pininfarina, the Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer BB boasts a sleek and aggressive profile that perfectly combines style and functionality. Its distinct features, including a low stance, flared wheel arches, and aerodynamic lines, reflect Ferrari's commitment to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in the automotive industry.

The Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer's interior, with its driver-centric layout, plush leather, ergonomic controls, and iconic Ferrari steering wheel, offers a sophisticated and exhilarating driving experience. (Picture from: CarAndClassic)

Stepping into the cockpit of the Berlinetta Boxer BB is like stepping into a world where luxury and performance seamlessly converge. The driver-centric layout, adorned with plush leather, ergonomic controls, and the iconic Ferrari steering wheel, offers a driving experience that is both sophisticated and exhilarating. Despite its focus on speed and agility, the BB doesn't compromise on comfort and convenience, ensuring every drive is memorable.

The Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer's distinct features, including its low stance, flared wheel arches, and aerodynamic lines, reflect Ferrari's commitment to innovation and setting new standards in the automotive industry. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

The debut of the Ferrari 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer in 1973 marked a significant milestone in automotive history, succeeding the legendary Ferrari 365 GTB/4 'Daytona' and continuing Ferrari's legacy of excellence with 387 units ever produced. Its clean Pininfarina design and impressive performance, including speeds of up to 175 mph and a 0-60 mph sprint in just 5.4 seconds, garnered widespread acclaim from enthusiasts and critics alike.

The Ferrari 512 Berlinetta Boxer (BB) was the second model of the series, produced from 1976 to 1981, with 929 units ever produced. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Over the years, Ferrari continued to enhance the Berlinetta Boxer, introducing improvements such as a more powerful engine producing 360 bhp, advanced clutch systems, and optimized lubrication systems for peak performance. In 1976, the Ferrari 512 Berlinetta Boxer (BB) was introduced, featuring a larger flat-12 engine at 4,942 cc, further solidifying its status as a pinnacle of automotive excellence.

The Ferrari 512 Berlinetta Boxer (BB) introduced improvements such as a more powerful engine producing 360 bhp, advanced clutch systems, and optimized lubrication systems for peak performance. (Picture from: SupercarWorld)

The evolution of the 512 BB brought about a wider body, revised suspension, and aerodynamic upgrades, elevating both its performance capabilities and visual appeal. With 929 units produced during its production run, each 512 BB encapsulated the essence of Italian craftsmanship and automotive innovation.

The Ferrari 512 BBi was the third model of the series, produced from 1981 to 1984, with 1,007 units ever produced. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

And then, the fuel-injected Ferrari 512 BBi launched in 1981 with 1,007 units ever produced. Claimed its engine boasts a peak power output of 340 bhp at 6,000 rpm, making the 512 BBi the least powerful model in the series. The series was discontinued in 1984 when the Ferrari 512 BBi was replaced by the Testarossa, which used a revised version of the flat-twelve engine.

The Ferrari 512 BBi's engine boasts a peak power output of 340 bhp at 6,000 rpm, making the 512 BBi the least powerful model in the series. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Owning a Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer BB goes beyond mere ownership—it represents a connection to automotive history and a deep appreciation for driving excellence. With a limited production of 2,323 units, each BB has become a highly sought-after collector's item, appreciating in value over time and serving as a timeless tribute to Ferrari's enduring legacy.

In conclusion, the Ferrari Berlinetta Boxer BB stands as a testament to Ferrari's unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of performance, design, and engineering. Its legacy continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts worldwide, cementing its position as one of the most iconic and revered vehicles ever created. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | ARTIOLI.IT | SEVENWORLD | SUPERCARS.NET | SUPERCARWORLD | BEVERLYHILLSCARCLUB | WIKIPEDIA | CARANDCLASSIC | RMW.LV ]

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1984 Honda NSR500: The Legendary 'Suicide Machine' with Bold Exhaust Placement

Suicide Machine - Racing motorcycles have always been a symbol of engineering creativity, unrelenting determination, and the pursuit of breaking boundaries. Among these remarkable machines, few have captured the imagination and admiration of fans worldwide quite like the iconic Honda NSR500, a true legend in the world of competitive racing.

Freddie Spencer secured the GP500 championship title in 1985, riding the Honda NSR500, a bike renowned for its unique design and impressive performance despite its unconventional features. (Picture from: GridOto)

This iconic 2-stroke bike dominated the GP500 era, leaving an indelible mark in the history of motorcycle racing. The Honda NSR500 succeeded the NS500 (V-engine, 3 cylinders), which had previously led Freddie Spencer to win the 1983 GP500 world championship. But there is one version of the NSR500 that stands apart—not just for its performance, but for its daring design.

Freddie Spencer poses with his Honda NSR500, proudly showcasing the bike without its fairing, revealing its distinctive and unconventional design that set it apart from other racing motorcycles of its time. (Picture from: GridOto)

This is the story of the 1984 Honda NSR500, the bike that earned the chilling nickname “Suicide Machine.” At first glance, the 1984 NSR500 might seem like any other racing bike of its time when the fairings are in place. However, once the fairings are removed, the bike’s unconventional design becomes apparent. Unlike typical racing motorcycles, the NSR500’s exhaust occupies the space where the fuel tank would usually sit. Astonishingly, the fuel tank was relocated to the undercowl beneath the engine. 

The Honda NSR500 places the exhaust above while the gas tank is relocated to the undercowl for better balance. (Picture from: GridOto)

This bold and unconventional placement highlights Honda’s relentless pursuit of better weight distribution and aerodynamic efficiency. With this unusual configuration, the first-generation NSR500 was capable of producing an impressive 140 horsepower. This engineering feat was both a blessing and a challenge. 

The Honda NSR500, introduced in 1984 with an additional cylinder, succeeded the NS500 (V-engine, 3 cylinders) that had led Freddie Spencer to the GP500 world championship. (Picture from: Retromania4ever on X)

During its debut season in 1984, rider Freddie Spencer struggled to showcase its potential due to injuries. However, in 1985, the bike and its rider found their stride, clinching the GP500 championship and solidifying their place in motorsport history.

The Honda NSR500, with its flipped configuration of the fuel tank under the exhaust, could generate an impressive 140 hp. (Picture from: GridOto)

The unique design of the 1984 NSR500 also earned it a certain notoriety. Spencer essentially rode the bike with the exhaust situated alarmingly close to his chest—a design quirk that made the bike as dangerous as it was innovative. This arrangement led to the “Suicide Machine” moniker, a testament to the risks taken by both engineers and racers in their pursuit of victory. It’s hard to fathom what it felt like to race with such a setup, but it’s clear that courage was as much a requirement as skill.

This daring chapter in Honda’s racing legacy serves as a reminder of the lengths to which manufacturers and riders go in their quest for glory. The 1984 NSR500 may not have had a flawless start, but its bold design and championship success have made it an unforgettable part of MotoGP’s storied past.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HONDA | RETROMANIA4EVER ON X | WIKIPEDIA | MOTOGP ]

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SSZ Stradale: Wisconsin’s 1000-Horses Handcrafted Supercar Masterpiece

Unique ONES - When it comes to automotive legends, we often find ourselves reflecting on iconic brands like Ferrari or Aston Martin, but tucked away in Wisconsin, a lesser-known marvel was born. This brings us to the SSZ Stradale, a car that stands as a tribute to the Italian classics while blazing its own trail in performance. The brainchild of Alfa Romeo racer and restorer, Tom Zatloukal, this unique creation was produced between 1984 and 1999. Despite its American roots, the SSZ Stradale pays homage to the Alfa Romeo models of the late 1950s, blending the charm of Italian design with the brute power of modern engineering.

The SSZ Stradale Mark 1 Street Version was equipped with a 3.0-liter Alfa Romeo V6 engine. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

1975 Eldorette: The Bold Fusion of Cadillac Eldorado and Corvette

Unique ONES - When discussing iconic custom cars from Hollywood, the name George Barris inevitably comes to mind. Barris was a visionary in the world of automobile customization, and his creations often stole the spotlight in television and film during the 1960s. Barris' work not only redefined what a car could be, but also connected the entertainment industry with custom vehicles, creating a lasting legacy. One of his lesser-known, but equally intriguing creations is the 1975 "Eldorette," a one-of-a-kind Corvette modified with parts from a Cadillac Eldorado for the legendary actor John Belushi.

The 1975 Eldorette, a one-of-a-kind Corvette modified with parts from a Cadillac Eldorado for the legendary actor John Belushi.. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

The Eldorette is a rare artifact of a very particular time in car customization, when the audacious and the extravagant were the standards of the day. Originally based on a Corvette C3, this vehicle's history is tied closely to George Barris and his unmistakable approach to car design. Known for turning conventional vehicles into remarkable, one-of-a-kind automobiles, Barris' touch on the Eldorette is unmistakable. The car was heavily modified with a variety of elements that transformed its look completely, blending parts from a Cadillac Eldorado to create something truly unique.

The 1975 Eldorette, a one-of-a-kind creation by Barris, was heavily modified with Cadillac Eldorado parts, completely transforming its look. (Picture from: DezzysSpeedShop in Facebook)

The story of this Corvette begins with its commission by John Belushi, the iconic comedian and actor best known for his role in The Blues Brothers. Although details about Belushi’s time with the car remain scarce, its subsequent history offers some insights. After Belushi, the Eldorette found its way into a collection owned by John Foster, where it remained until his death in 1995. From there, it was sold at an estate sale and eventually reappeared on the market, currently seeking a new owner.

Vintage car enthusiasts will appreciate details like the chrome side pipes and Erson dress-up valve covers, both popular features in custom cars of this era. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

As for the car itself, the modifications performed by Barris are nothing short of eye-catching. The fenders and rear quarters were reshaped and extended upward, giving the Eldorette a bulkier, more dramatic profile. The rear was designed in a continental style, featuring a Lincoln emblem—an unusual choice that only adds to the vehicle's distinctiveness. Interestingly, the taillights are reminiscent of those from an AMC Gremlin, adding yet another layer of quirkiness to its design. The front end of the car was also customized, adding a unique flair that sets it apart from any typical Corvette.

The 1975 Eldorette's interior appears to be well-preserved. Its condition, combined with the car’s rarity, makes it an appealing collector’s item, especially for those interested in Hollywood history or Barris’ body of work. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

Under the hood, the Eldorette retains a 350 engine, with little else known about its drivetrain. The transmission is automatic. Vintage car enthusiasts will appreciate details like the chrome side pipes and Erson dress-up valve covers, which were common features in custom cars from this era. The mileage is reportedly 24,500, although the odometer has rolled over, hinting at the car’s extensive use over the decades.

Under the hood, the Eldorette features a 350 engine and an automatic transmission, though details about the rest of the drivetrain remain limited. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

The interior of the Eldorette, based on the few available images, appears to be well-preserved. Its condition, combined with the car’s rarity, makes it an appealing collector’s item, especially for those interested in Hollywood history or Barris’ body of work. The T-Top panels, a classic feature of many Corvettes, are likely stored behind the seats in the luggage compartment, another nod to its practicality despite its wild appearance.

The 1975 Eldorette features T-Top panels, a classic Corvette element likely stored behind the seats in the luggage compartment, adding practicality to its wild appearance. (Picture from: BarnFinds)

For car collectors or enthusiasts looking for something that stands out, the Eldorette offers an intriguing opportunity. With an asking price of $24,999 (in September, 2023), the vehicle is a piece of history that could serve as a conversation starter at any car show or event. The seller has even floated the possibility of a trade, showing interest in another head-turning vehicle that isn’t a project car. For those in the market for a one-of-a-kind custom car with celebrity provenance, this might just be the gem they’ve been searching for.

The 1975 Eldorette is undeniably eye-catching, with reshaped fenders and rear quarters extended upward, giving it a bulkier, more dramatic profile. (Picture from: DezzysSpeedShop in Facebook)

Yet, for all its divisiveness, the Eldorette is undoubtedly a testament to George Barris’ creativity and willingness to push boundaries. It’s a car that elicits strong reactions—whether of admiration or confusion—and that’s precisely what makes it so fascinating. As one of the few remaining relics of the custom car era of the 1970s, the Eldorette stands as a symbol of the bold experimentation that characterized automotive culture at the time.

In the end, the Eldorette might not be to everyone's taste, but it is undeniably a unique piece of history. Whether you view it as a work of art or an automotive oddity, its connection to both George Barris and John Belushi ensures that it will always hold a special place in the annals of custom car culture. For the right buyer, it represents not only a rare opportunity but a piece of Hollywood’s eccentric past brought to life on four wheels. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BARNFINDS | CORVETTEBLOGGER | CORVETTEFORUM | DEZZYS SPEEDSHOP IN FACEBOOK ]

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Midas: Golden Touches Transforming the Mini Marcos Legacy

Timeless Innovation - The automotive world thrives on innovation, fueled by passionate individuals and companies aiming to combine performance, style, and timeless appeal. Among the many iconic creations, the Marcos Mini, also known as the Mini Marcos, stands as a symbol of ingenuity and adaptability. Debuting in the mid-1960s, this compact yet powerful kit car secured its place in history with impressive performance and a distinctive design. But its journey didn’t stop there—this remarkable car continued to evolve, transforming into something even greater.

The Midas is a British made kit car initially manufactured by D&H Fibreglass Techniques using Mini running gear. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

In the 1970s, D & H Fibreglass Techniques saw potential in the Marcos Mini Mark IV and sought to refine its design. Harold Dermott, the head of D & H, envisioned a modernized version of the car that could attract a broader audience. To achieve this, he collaborated with designer Richard Oakes, resulting in a sleek and reimagined vehicle named the Midas. The choice of name symbolized a golden touch, hinting at the belief that this new iteration would captivate enthusiasts and buyers alike.

The Midas is the result of a collaboration between D&H Fibreglass Techniques and designer Richard Oakes. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Mechanically, the Midas retained much of the Mini Marcos’s original essence but introduced notable improvements. Gone was the rear subframe of the BMC Mini, replaced with a beam-mounted system for the rear trailing arms. When it debuted at the 1978 Performance Car Show in London, the Midas lived up to its name, generating significant interest and a flood of orders. The car’s appeal lay not only in its design but also in its promise of modern performance and enhanced usability.

The Midas Mark II aka the Bronze benefited significantly from Harold’s marketing, which highlighted the contributions of Brabham Formula 1 Chief Designer Gordon Murray. (Picture from: AROnline)

By the mid-1980s, the Midas underwent another transformation to accommodate parts from newer vehicles like the Morris and MG Metro. This redesign, again helmed by Richard Oakes, introduced larger windows, wider wings, and an updated front end. Gordon Murray, a renowned automotive engineer, also contributed to aerodynamic refinements, ensuring the car met contemporary standards. 

The Midas Mark II aka the Bronze benefited significantly from Harold’s marketing, which highlighted the contributions of Brabham Formula 1 Chief Designer Gordon Murray. (Picture from: Silodrome)

With safety becoming a priority, the new Midas model passed rigorous crash tests, paving the way for sales as complete vehicles and kits. Despite these advancements, the Midas faced setbacks. A fire in 1989 destroyed its factory, halting production and leading to the sale of D & H to Pastiche Cars. 

Produced from 1985 to 1990, the Midas Bronze joined the Gold model lineup, enhanced with design improvements by Gordon Murray. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Unfortunately, Pastiche Cars soon folded. The resilience of the Midas and Mini Marcos did not waver. Ownership of Midas Cars passed through various hands, including GTM to a new Midas Cars Ltd. based in Redditch, West Midlands. The range now consisted of the Coupé, renamed the Cortez, and a K-Series powered convertible named the Excelsior. Although the cars were well received the company went into liquidation in 2003.

In adverts the company claimed the Midas Gold was “Britain’s economy superstar” with a lifetime no-rust warranty, and readers were urged to address enquiries to Harold Dermott himself at the Corby works. (Picture from: MidasRacer in Flickr)

A new company,  Alternative Cars Ltd., was set up in 2003 and in 2004 restarted production of kit form versions of the Gold Convertible, Cortez and Excelsior based in a small workshop unit at Clanfield, Oxfordshire. In 2007 the Midas Owners Club rediscovered the Gold coupe moulds in Germany and bought them and were imported back to England, ensuring its survival into the 21st century. 

From top-left: the Midas Gold Convertible (produced from 1985 to present), top-right: the Midas Cortez (1995 to present), and at the bottom: the Midas Excelsior (2002 to present). (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Meanwhile the rights to the Mini Marcos returned to Marcos Ltd., signaling a turning point for the model’s legacy. The Mini Marcos kits offered flexibility, allowing customers to purchase components progressively or all at once. This adaptability ensured that the car remained accessible to a new generation of builders and drivers.

The 1991 Marcos Mini Mark V showcased modern enhancements like 13-inch wheels, an optional walnut dashboard, and air conditioning, blending retro charm with contemporary comfort. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)

By 1991, the Marcos Mini Mark V showcased modern enhancements like 13-inch wheels, an optional walnut dashboard, and air conditioning, blending retro charm with contemporary comfort. Notably, it became the first fully built Mini Marcos exported to Japan, marking a milestone in its journey.

Brochure of the Marcos Mini Mark VI produced as a kit-car by Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Later, Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd. acquired the rights to the Mini Marcos, offering kit forms of the Mark VI and Mark VI GT models. These kits were designed for enthusiasts who sought to resurrect old Mini parts, combining practicality with nostalgia. The fibreglass body provided a durable alternative to the Mini’s original steel structure, making it an ideal project for restoring rusted or damaged vehicles.

Brochure of the Marcos Mini Mark VI GT produced as a kit-car by Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd. (Picture from: Silodrome)

Today, the Mini Marcos continues to inspire admiration among automotive enthusiasts. Its compact size, thrilling performance, and rich history transport drivers to the vibrant 1960s, while its enduring relevance proves its ability to thrive in a modern world.

Whether as a restored classic or a newly built kit, the Mini Marcos embodies a spirit of adventure and creativity that refuses to fade. Its journey reminds us that innovation and passion can keep even the smallest icons alive, proving that some legends truly never die. (Back to its roots). ** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MARCOS-OC | WIKIPEDIA | MAXIMUM MINI | ARONLINE | SILODROME ]

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Renault Concept Honors the Legacy of Architect Le Corbusier

Study Design - The world of architecture and design often finds unexpected intersections with other creative fields, such as automotive design. One such extraordinary crossover occurred in the form of the Renault Coupe Corbusier concept car, a tribute to the legendary French architect Le Corbusier. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of his passing, Renault sought to honor his legacy not only as an architect but also as an influential figure in modern design. The Coupe Corbusier concept is a striking representation of the architect’s principles and offers a unique glimpse into how architecture can influence car design.

Renault Coupe Corbusier marks 50 years since the death of the architect of the same name. (Picture from: CarMagazine)

Le Corbusier, widely regarded as a pioneer of modern architecture, was known for his bold, functional designs. His work, which spans across continents from America to Europe and India, showcases clean lines, structural clarity, and a focus on functionality. Renault, inspired by his architectural style, embarked on a design journey that would blend automotive aesthetics with the essence of Le Corbusier’s design philosophy. The result was the Renault Coupe Corbusier, a concept car that pays homage to the architect’s innovative approach.

The genesis of the concept began two years prior to its unveiling. Renault’s design team aimed to create something that reflected both French culture and the golden era of French automobiles from the 1930s. The 1930s were a time of great innovation in French car design, and this era provided the perfect backdrop for Renault's homage to one of France's most celebrated architects. The design team saw parallels between Le Corbusier's architectural achievements and the automotive craftsmanship of that time, leading to the creation of a car that encapsulated both worlds.

The Renault Coupe Corbusier, with its long hood and sleek, elegant lines, exudes a sophisticated sense of timelessness. (Picture from: CarMagazine)

The Coupe Corbusier is defined by its long, elegant profile. The design exudes sophistication, with a long hood and sleek lines that evoke a sense of timelessness. Its elongated shape, slender side mirrors, and distinctive rear overhang give the car a unique silhouette, standing out from typical automotive designs. The car’s body is angular, with stiff, sharp lines that prioritize form over aerodynamic efficiency, a clear nod to Le Corbusier's architectural style where function and structure often took precedence over ornamentation.

One of the most captivating aspects of the concept car is its striking dihedral doors, commonly referred to as butterfly doors. These doors are hinged at the rear and open vertically, adding a dramatic flair to the car’s overall presentation. This bold feature is a visual highlight that further connects the car to the avant-garde spirit of Le Corbusier’s work, which often challenged traditional design norms and embraced innovation.

One of the most captivating features of the Renault Coupe Corbusier is its striking dihedral doors, hinged at the rear and opening vertically, which add a dramatic flair to the car's presentation. (Picture from: CarMagazine)

The interior of the Coupe Corbusier is a direct reflection of the architect’s penchant for geometric forms and clean, functional spaces. In true Le Corbusier fashion, the interior is completely boxy, devoid of any rounded edges or unnecessary embellishments. Every aspect of the design is intentional, emphasizing practicality and structure, much like his architectural creations. The interior design complements the car's exterior, reinforcing the overall thematic connection between automotive design and modernist architecture.

 

One of the more subtle yet meaningful design choices is found in the front of the car. Graphics surrounding each of the front wheels suggest that a section of the vehicle's body has been elevated, a reference to Le Corbusier's fondness for elevating parts of his structures on thin piloti. This visual cue creates a sense of lightness and airiness, despite the otherwise imposing design of the vehicle. The dark panels that contrast with the car's silver bodywork further accentuate this concept, drawing attention to the design's architectural influences.

The Renault Coupe Corbusier inspired by the 1930s, but looks pretty futuristic to us to date. (Picture from: CarMagazine)

The front grille is another standout feature, composed of angled slats and flanked by slim headlights. The grille's geometric design mirrors Le Corbusier’s architectural attention to detail, while the slim headlights contribute to the car’s sleek, modern appearance. These elements come together to create a front profile that is both striking and purposeful, much like the architectural facades Le Corbusier was known for.

 

While the Coupe Corbusier concept is a design marvel, it is important to note that Renault never intended for this car to be a production model. The concept is purely a styling exercise, a platform for the design team to explore new ideas and draw inspiration from other creative fields. In fact, Renault deliberately avoided disclosing any details regarding the car’s powertrain or performance capabilities, underscoring that this is more a visual homage than an engineering breakthrough.

The Renault Coupe Corbusier features a dramatic fastback rofline joined by futuristic light treatment. (Picture from: CarMagazine)

The Renault Coupe Corbusier serves as a bridge between two seemingly different worlds – architecture and automotive design – demonstrating that the core principles of design can transcend mediums. By taking inspiration from one of the greatest architects of the 20th century, Renault created a concept that stands as both a tribute and a testament to the enduring influence of Le Corbusier. While this car may never grace the roads, it leaves a lasting impression as a symbol of creativity and the limitless possibilities that arise when different disciplines come together.

In the end, the Renault Coupe Corbusier reminds us of the power of collaboration between art, architecture, and automotive design. It celebrates the legacy of Le Corbusier in a way that is both unexpected and fitting, blending the past with the future. This concept is not just a car; it’s an artistic expression, a fusion of ideas, and a testament to the ever-evolving nature of design. Through this concept, Renault not only honors an architectural genius but also pushes the boundaries of what automotive design can be, showing that inspiration can come from the most unexpected places. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOCAR | DEZEEN | CARMAGAZINE ]

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1985 Cizeta Design Study by Marcello Gandini: A Forgotten Masterpiece

Less KNOWN - The automotive world has always been filled with iconic designs, with many shaping the future of sports cars. One name that stands out in this space is Marcello Gandini, an automotive designer renowned for creating some of the most revolutionary sports cars. His portfolio is extensive, but certain creations have gained legendary status.

The lesser-known Cizeta Design Study by Marcello Gandini was on display at the 2024 Car Design Event in Munich, held in April. (Picture from: uk.Motor1)

Among his most famous designs are the Lamborghini Miura, Lamborghini Countach, and Lancia Stratos. These vehicles defined an era and remain admired to this day. Gandini crafted these masterpieces during his time as the head designer at Bertone, a prestigious Italian design house. However, in 1980, he shifted to working independently, continuing to make his mark on the automotive world.

The lesser-known Cizeta Design Study by Marcello Gandini was on display at the 2024 Car Design Event in Munich, held in April. (Picture from: uk.Motor1)

Although Gandini is renowned for his extensive influence in car design, there is one project that often goes unnoticed. This particular work, still relatively unknown to the public, has yet to become a fully realized vehicle. In 1985, Gandini developed a design study that served as a precursor to what would eventually become the Lamborghini Diablo. Initially part of Lamborghini’s internal P132 Project, aimed at creating the successor to the Countach, this project, unlike his previous groundbreaking designs, lacked both an interior and an engine. Frustrated by Lamborghini’s slow progress in bringing the design to life, Gandini decided to offer the project to another manufacturer: Cizeta.

The lesser-known Cizeta Design Study by Marcello Gandini was on display at the 2024 Car Design Event in Munich, held in April. (Picture from: uk.Motor1)

After many years out of the spotlight, Gandini’s lesser-known design study made a surprising return. In April 2024, at the prestigious “Car Design Event” in Munich, the Cizeta Design Study resurfaced, captivating audiences once again with its bold and visionary design. It’s a reminder of Gandini’s enduring influence in the world of automotive design, where even his lesser-known works continue to inspire admiration.

The lesser-known Cizeta Design Study by Marcello Gandini was on display at the 2024 Car Design Event in Munich, held in April. (Picture from: uk.Motor1)

Cizeta, a relatively unknown name to many at the time, was founded by Claudio Zampolli in the late 1980s. Zampolli, an automotive engineer with deep roots in the industry, had worked on Lamborghini’s Countach project back in the 1970s. His partnership with Italian music producer Giorgio Moroder gave rise to the company, with Moroder backing the venture financially. In fact, the company’s name, Cizeta, is derived from the Italian pronunciation of Zampolli’s initials—CZ. Their shared ambition was to create a super sports car unlike any other.

The only V16T model bearing the Cizeta-Moroder name was a prototype powered by a 534.57 hp engine. (Picture from: RM Sothebys)

Rumors suggest that Lamborghini’s then-owners, Chrysler, were hesitant about Gandini’s design, considering it too extreme for the brand’s direction. As a result, Gandini’s final design for the P132, which was intended to become the Diablo, ended up being passed on to Cizeta. After three years of development, the prototype was unveiled at the 1988 Geneva Motor Show. Upon seeing the car, many couldn’t help but notice the similarities between it and the Diablo. This was no coincidence, as Gandini saw the Cizeta V16T as a prototype for the successor to the Countach.

The Cizeta V16T supercar is built by Cizeta Automobili, the Italian automotive manufacturer based in Modena and designed by Marcello Gandini. (Picture from: Dyler)

However, even before the Cizeta-Moroder V16T went into production, Giorgio Moroder left the company, leaving Zampolli to continue on his own. The only model bearing the Cizeta-Moroder name was a prototype, which remained in Moroder’s possession after his departure in 1990. This prototype impressed those who saw it in action, particularly with its powerful 534.57 hp engine. Despite not entering full production, the Cizeta-Moroder V16T left a lasting legacy. In 2022, the prototype was auctioned off at RM Sotheby's for an impressive $1,363,500.

The design that Gandini had initially envisioned for Lamborghini ultimately came to life in the Cizeta V16T. This supercar, powered by a sixteen-cylinder engine, was a marvel of engineering. The engine, formed by combining two V8s with a single crankshaft, boasted eight camshafts. With a 6.0-liter engine mounted transversely near the rear axle, the V16T was a rare feat of design and performance. Only ten of these extraordinary machines were ever produced, making them some of the most unique supercars of the time. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DYLER | UK.MOTOR1 | EN.VMAX.SI | HYPEBEAST | RMSOTHEBYS ]

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