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Showing posts with label Classic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Classic. Show all posts

Saturday, May 31, 2025

Donatini MB 8: Argentina’s Forgotten 8-Wheeled Engineering Marvel

Monocoque Mastery - When you think of groundbreaking cars, it's easy to imagine the glitz of high-end showrooms, futuristic concept sketches from major automakers, or the roar of engines on a Formula 1 track. But sometimes, the most fascinating vehicles are born not in billion-dollar facilities but in backyards, away from the spotlight. That’s exactly the case with the Donatini MB 8—a one-of-a-kind prototype that redefines what passion and ingenuity can create. More than just a car, it's the physical embodiment of a dream that refused to fade.
The Donatini MB 8 made its final public appearance at Autoclassic 2024, held in the picturesque gardens of the San Isidro racecourse, where it stood as a striking reminder of Argentina’s boldest engineering vision. (Picture from: AutoMundo)
The Donatini MB 8 wasn’t just another engineering project; it was a personal mission. Designed and built by Raúl Donatini, a self-taught inventor from Argentina, the MB 8 is a sports car that challenges conventional design from the ground up. It all started with a childhood fascination for suspension systems and years of tinkering with motorcycles and race cars. When life forced Donatini away from his previous careers due to health issues, he turned to a secluded beach town and began crafting something extraordinary using little more than an electric welder, sheer determination, and a vivid imagination.
The Donatini MB 8 is a remarkable 8-wheeled road beast, engineered to soar down the tarmac at nearly 300 km/h while maintaining exceptional stability—powered by a 3.5-liter Mercedes-Benz M116 V8 engine delivering 200 hp through a 4-speed manual transmission, all anchored by its radically unconventional suspension system. (Picture from: AutoMundo)
What makes the Donatini MB 8 so unique isn’t just its story—it’s the engineering that underpins it. This car was designed to fly down roads at nearly 300 km/h while staying perfectly stable, all thanks to a radically different suspension system. The front features a rocker arm setup that keeps the car level by distributing load between the wheels in a way that minimizes body roll, mimicking the smooth glide of a speedboat slicing through water. The rear axle, too, has a clever design: a single spring working with two shock absorbers to balance the load across four tires. And yes, the car has eight wheelssplit across three axles—for enhanced grip and stability.
The Donatini MB 8 is not only unique for the visionary engineering that underpins it, but also for details like its unusual dual-hinged cockpit access system—just one of many inventive solutions that set this hand-built prototype apart. (Picture from: AutoMundo)
The body of the MB 8 follows the same philosophy: form follows function, with aerodynamic lines that aren’t just for show. A special ground-effect design helps keep the car planted, with air intakes and exhaust shaping the airflow in precise, performance-enhancing ways. Every panel, from the wheel covers (as you can see at the early model) to the trunk lid, bolts onto a lightweight monocoque chassis made from steel tubing and sheet metaloptionally enhanced with aluminum.
The Donatini MB 8 embodies a form-follows-function philosophy, with aerodynamic lines, ground-effect design, and precisely shaped intakes and exhausts that enhance performance and keep it firmly planted at speed. (Picture from: AutoMundo)
Under the sleek, low-slung body sits a powerful heart: a 3.5-liter Mercedes-Benz M116 V8 engine delivering 200 horsepower through a four-speed manual transmission. Placed over the rear axle, this setup achieves a perfectly balanced weight distributionrare in even the most modern supercars. Disc brakes on all six wheels bring this powerhouse to a confident stop, completing a setup that’s as practical as it is ambitious.
The Donatini MB8 made its debut at the 2003 El Garage exhibition in Costa Salguero, captivating both engineers and automotive enthusiasts. (Picture from: DonatiniMB8)
Though it took four years of meticulous worktwo spent on the road, one on testing, and one on the bodywork—the MB 8 eventually roared to life. Donatini didn’t have a factory or a team of engineers. He had a backyard, some tools, and the unwavering support of his wife, Victoria Greci. With no neighbors in sight, the couple lifted and fitted heavy components together, crafting what would eventually become one of Argentina’s most ambitious automotive projects.
The Donatini MB8 sat on display at the 2003 El Garage exhibition in Costa Salguero, turning heads with its radical design and engineering audacity. (Picture from: DonatiniMB8)
The MB 8 debuted in 2003 at El Garage exhibition in Costa Salguero, drawing the attention of engineers and enthusiasts alike. Its design even made it to Italy, and according to Donatini, elements of its unique suspension concept found echoes in Formula 1 cars shortly after. While its legacy may not be known globally, those who encounter it can’t help but marvel at how one man’s vision quietly influenced the very cutting edge of motorsport engineering. | geEKCniaiTg |
Today, the Donatini MB 8 stands not merely as a prototype, but as a lasting symbol that innovation doesn’t belong solely to high-end labs or massive corporations—sometimes, all it takes is a vision, a welder, and relentless determination to create something truly original; and while it’s not the only multi-wheeled machine of its kindIndonesia introduced a six-wheeled custom car called Hati Nurani - Walang Kadung by Kupu-Kupu Malam Auto Custom in 2015—the MB 8 remains a rare, handcrafted marvel that reminds us ingenuity still thrives outside the mainstream. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DONATINIMB8 | AUTOHISTORIA | AUTOMUNDO | AR.MOTOR1 | SIXMANIA.FR | ULTIMATECARPAGE | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS ON FACEBOOK | WEIRDWHEELS ON REDDIT ]
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Friday, May 30, 2025

Ferrari F50 Bolide: A One-Off Supercar Shrouded in Mystery

Phantom Prancing - In the world of exotic supercars, few names spark as much excitement as Ferrari. With a legacy steeped in motorsport history, every model they produce tends to push boundaries and redefine performance and design. But hidden within that rich lineage is a mysterious machine few have ever seen on the road — a car that remains more myth than metal. While Ferrari has created some legendary icons over the years, there’s one that stands apart not just for its engineering but for the secrecy that surrounds it. Enter the Ferrari F50 Bolide, a car that blurs the line between road-legal dream and Formula 1 fantasy.
One of the rarest and most mysterious cars in the Sultan of Brunei's vast collection is the 1998 Ferrari F50 Bolide, a one-off masterpiece built in secrecy. (Picture from: Complex)
The original Ferrari F50 was already a showstopper when it debuted in 1995, created to celebrate Ferrari’s 50th anniversary. Limited to just 349 units, it represented the pinnacle of Ferrari’s desire to bring Formula 1 performance to the streets. At its heart was a V12 engine derived directly from a 1990s-era F1 car, the Ferrari 641, making it the last of its kind to offer such a direct connection to the track. With a chassis crafted entirely from carbon fiber and a focus on raw performance, it was a celebration of racing heritage wrapped in an ultra-rare package.
The 1998 Ferrari F50 Bolide clearly appears to have been fitted with an entirely new body shell over the standard F50 internals. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
But what if that wasn’t enough? What if someone wanted an F50 that was even more exclusive, even more aligned with the spirit of a true F1 car? That’s where the F50 Bolide enters the scene. This custom-made one-off version of the F50 is believed to have been created for a very special client: His Highness Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei. Known for his unmatched car collection — rumored to include thousands of vehicles — the Sultan is one of Ferrari’s most loyal and high-profile clients. It’s no wonder that when Ferrari wanted to build something truly special, his name came up.
The 1998 Ferrari F50 Bolide featured rear-wheel drive, a thunderous twelve-cylinder engine, and a 6-speed manual gearbox. (Picture from: Autoblog.nl)
Details about the F50 Bolide are incredibly scarce, adding to its allure. Built around a year after the F50 production officially ended in 1997, the Bolide isn’t just a rare car — it’s a ghost. Based on the few known photos and whispers from insiders, the car underwent a significant transformation. While it retained the essential mechanics of the F50including its high-revving V12 engine, rear-wheel drive, and six-speed manual transmissionthe exterior was entirely reimagined. A sleek, aerodynamic body shell replaced the original, giving it the appearance of a car built for the grid, not the garage.
A rare glimpse of the Ferrari F50 Bolide’s sculpted rear — a stunning fusion of raw aerodynamic design, twin exhausts, and signature Ferrari flair, wrapped in secrecy and speed. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Unlike most high-profile Ferrari models, the Bolide was never seen at a motor show, never spotted roaring down a track, and certainly never confirmed officially by the manufacturer. That silence has only fueled speculation. Enthusiasts and collectors alike have spent years trying to uncover the full story. But the truth is, it might be locked away for good — possibly hidden within the private collection of the Sultan himself.
There are claims that this exclusive project came with a price tag of around €2,000,000, which, for a car that few have ever seen, adds another layer of intrigue. Was it an engineering experiment? A secret gift? Or simply an ultra-rare indulgence? What’s clear is that the F50 Bolide represents an extraordinary fusion of performance, exclusivity, and enigma — a true unicorn in the world of supercars.

And maybe that’s the magic of the F50 Bolide. In a world where everything eventually gets posted, leaked, or revealed, this car remains an exception — a reminder that some legends are best left with a little mystery.. *** [EKA [14082019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DYLER | COMPLEX | SUPERCARS.NET | AUTOBLOG.NL ]
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Thursday, May 29, 2025

1969 Chevrolet Camaro Strode Restomod: 1,010-HP Muscle Car Reborn

Classic Reforged - There’s something magical about timeless craftsmanship meeting bold innovation. For car enthusiasts and design lovers alike, few moments are more exciting than discovering a classic reborn with cutting-edge technology and fearless creativity. That’s exactly what happened at the 2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where all eyes were drawn to one jaw-dropping masterpiece—an electrifying take on the  1969 Chevrolet Camaro. This wasn’t just any restomod; this was Strode, a name now etched into the minds of muscle car fans around the globe.
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro 'Strode' by Ringbrothers is the legendary classic reimagined into a showstopper at the 2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. (Picture from: Carscoops)
The creators behind this head-turning beast? None other than Ringbrothers, the Wisconsin-based custom car maestros who have built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of automotive design. With each project, they blend old-school muscle with modern precision—and Strode is one of their boldest statements yet. 
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro 'Strode' by Ringbrothers features key exterior elements—such as wider fenders, aggressive front and rear bumpers, a slick diffuser, and a sculpted ducktail spoiler—remade in lightweight carbon fiber for enhanced durability and bold styling. (Picture from: GridOto)
Known for previous works like ADRNLN, a De Tomaso Pantera turned showstopper in 2013, and ENYO, a radically reimagined 1948 Chevrolet Loadmaster pickup, Ringbrothers don’t just modify cars—they reinvent legends. With Strode, the mission was clear: preserve the soul of the original Camaro while transforming its body and performance into something that belongs in tomorrow’s world. The foundation remains loyal to its 1969 roots, but the overhaul is unmistakable. 
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro 'Strode' by Ringbrothers is finished in a dazzling BASF Glasurit Ghost White paint that radiates understated menace with a touch of class. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Key exterior elements—including the wider fenders, aggressive front and rear bumpers, a slick diffuser, and a sculpted ducktail spoiler—have all been remade in lightweight carbon fiber, offering both durability and aggressive flair. The final touch of class? A dazzling Basf Glasurit Ghost White finish that glows with understated menace.
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro 'Strode' by Ringbrothers features a rich brown interior crafted by Upholstery Unlimited, seamlessly blending luxury aesthetics with modern tech like a JL Audio system, Dakota Digital gauges, and a Vintage Air Gen IV climate system for a connected, comfortable ride. (Picture from: GridOto)
Rolling on 20-inch HRE G-Code Edition wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, Strode doesn’t just stand still looking pretty—it’s built to move. Enhancing its road presence even further is a completely reworked suspension system by Roadster Shop Fast Track, coupled with the smooth responsiveness of QA1 MOD Series coilovers. Every detail in the undercarriage is designed for top-tier performance and control.
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro 'Strode' by Ringbrothers is powered by a ferocious 2,900 cc Supercharged V8 engine from Wegner Motorsports, delivering an astonishing 1,010 horsepower optimized by the Holley Dominator EFI ignition system for maximum performance. (Picture from: GridOto)
Inside, the Camaro takes a luxurious detour from its rugged exterior. The cabin is wrapped in rich brown tones, thanks to the masterful touch of Upholstery Unlimited. But it’s more than just looks—modern features like a JL Audio system, Dakota Digital gauges, and a Vintage Air Gen IV climate system make sure the driving experience is both comfortable and connected. It’s a perfect harmony between the classic feel and 21st-century expectations.
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro 'Strode' by Ringbrothers perfectly balances classic muscle car heritage with modern 21st-century innovation. (Picture from: GridOto)
Under the hood is where the real magic happens. Powering Strode is a ferocious 2,900 cc Supercharged V8 engine from Wegner Motorsports. This engineering marvel pumps out a mind-blowing 1,010 horsepower, optimized by the Holley Dominator EFI ignition system to ensure that every ounce of power is delivered with precision. Mated to a 6-speed Bowler Tremec T-56 Magnum manual transmission and a rear-wheel-drive setup from John’s Industries, the Camaro isn’t just a showpiece—it’s a road-dominating machine.
In a sea of custom builds, Ringbrothers’ Strode stands apart as a perfect fusion of past and future. It honors the legendary 1969 Camaro while boldly stepping into new territory, both visually and mechanically. For those who crave authenticity wrapped in innovation, this creation is a reminder that when tradition meets imagination, something truly unforgettable is born. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSCOOPS | KAHN MEDIA ]
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Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Meet the 1,180-HP Custom 1969 Camaro Fenix: Classic Style, Modern Power

Muscle Reborn - There’s something timeless about classic American muscle cars—especially when they’re reimagined with a modern twist that pushes the boundaries of power, design, and craftsmanship. These machines are more than just vehicles; they’re moving works of art, pulsing with personality and roaring performance. Among the many showstoppers to hit the scene recently, one build continues to steal attention and admiration: the incredible custom 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Fenix.
This ferocious beauty, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Fenix by Sean Smith teamed up with Mikey Dascoli and the crew at Driven Speed Shop, unveiled at the 2023 Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona, California, wasn’t just another restomod—it was a statement. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
Unveiled during the 2023 Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona, California, this ferocious beauty wasn’t just another restomod—it was a statement. At the heart of this car is a thunderous 1,180-horsepower supercharged 427 LS7 V8, a number that alone would make anyone take notice. But behind those staggering figures lies a deeper story: one that begins with designer Sean Smith, a name that carries serious weight in the custom automotive world.
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Fenix was meticulously fine-tuned for precision and fitment, featuring a reworked front end with a new valance and bumper, and sits perfectly atop a Roadster Shop Fast Track chassis. (Picture from: HotRod)
Sean Smith isn't just any designer. With over two decades of experience, his resume reads like a who's who of automotive excellence, including time spent shaping projects for Saleen Automotive, Rockstar Games, Ringbrothers, and SpeedKore. Smith has always had a knack for blending innovation with aggressive styling, and that talent found its perfect canvas when car enthusiast Michael Shields approached him. Shields had one goal in mind—to create a Camaro that would outshine the one Smith previously designed for the 2019 SEMA Show.
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Fenix is dressed in a sleek Silver base, offset by accents in Liquid Champagne and Satin Charcoal Grey, creating a sophisticated color palette that walks the line between vintage charm and modern edge. (Picture from: HotRod)
That challenge led to the birth of Fenix, a name as fierce as the machine itself. To bring the vision to life, Smith teamed up with Mikey Dascoli and the crew at Driven Speed Shop. Despite the geographical distance, their collaboration took place virtually, with Smith sketching out his designs and the build team translating them into physical perfection.
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Fenix features an interior inspired by high-end European sports cars, brought to life through Smith’s design expertise, with elements like the dashboard, door panels, and center console crafted from 3D CAD models and executed with precision to create a cabin that’s both refined and race-ready. (Picture from: HotRod)
The visual appeal of the Fenix is undeniable. It’s dressed in a sleek Silver base, offset by accents in Liquid Champagne and Satin Charcoal Grey, creating a sophisticated color palette that walks the line between vintage charm and modern edge. Smith reworked the front end with a new valance and bumper, while the rear received custom light panels and a 3D-printed trunk spoiler—subtle yet bold enhancements that elevate the car’s overall presence. Every inch of the body was fine-tuned for precision and fitment, sitting perfectly atop a Roadster Shop Fast Track chassis.
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Fenix is powered by a thunderous 1,180-horsepower supercharged 427 LS7 V8—an output that commands instant attention. (Picture from: HotRod)
What really seals the deal is how form meets function. HRE RS103 wheels, 18 inches up front and 19 inches in the rear, are wrapped in sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, giving the Fenix the grip it needs to manage its immense power. The engine, built by Wegner Motorsports, pairs with a Tremec T56 six-speed transmission that ensures all 1,180 ponies are ready to run when called upon. Meanwhile, the engine baymeticulously crafted by Driven Speed Shopand the flawless paintwork by Kandy Shop Creations in Mesa, Arizona, add finishing touches that push the build into showstopper territory.
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Fenix was meticulously fine-tuned for precision and fitment, featuring a custom rear light panels, a 3D-printed trunk spoiler. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
Step inside, and the transformation continues. The interior pulls inspiration from high-end European sports cars, thanks to Smith’s design expertise. Components like the dashboard, door panels, and center console were all born in 3D CAD software and realized with precision, resulting in a cabin that feels as refined as it is race-ready.
More than just a muscle car reborn, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Fenix is a passion project come to life—a true collaboration between visionaries and craftsmen. It’s a reminder that when talent, technology, and a little bit of boldness come together, even legends can rise from the ashes and burn brighter than ever. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOTROD | CARBUZZ | ID.MOTOR1 ]
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Design Performance Barramunda: Innovation on Wheels

Bold Ingenuity - In the vast universe of automobiles, there exist some creations that leave even the most seasoned enthusiasts puzzled, intrigued, and utterly captivated. Among these rare gems is a car that perfectly embodies the spirit of adventure and innovation—the 1994 Design Performance Barramunda. It’s not merely a vehicle; it’s an audacious blend of land and sea, an embodiment of dreams that transcend the conventional. To understand the story of the Barramunda, one must delve into the roots of its enigmatic creator, Design Performance, and the inspirations behind this extraordinary machine.
The Barramunda designed by Erick De Pauw, a former Citroën employee and car designer for Jean-Pierre Beltoise's Design Performance. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
Design Performance, a French-based company established in 1987, remains an elusive entity in the annals of automotive history. What adds a layer of mystique to this company is its connection to Jean-Pierre Beltoise, a celebrated French Grand Prix motorcycle racer and Formula One driver. Beltoise’s involvement lent the company an aura of prestige and expertise in the world of speed and engineering. Additionally, the design brilliance of Erick De Pauw, a former Citroën employee and car designer, is believed to have contributed to the Barramunda’s creation, evidenced by a document bearing his signature.
This one-of-a-kind Barramunda made its debut at the 1994 Paris Motor Show, a moment of pride and anticipation for Design Performance. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
The car itself is a spectacle of ingenuity. Dubbed the Barramunda, this 13.8-foot-long vehicle was crafted with a unique purpose—to marry the joys of driving with the thrill of water sports. Designed to accommodate a full jet ski and two surfboards in its spacious rear, it represents a fusion of automotive passion and maritime enthusiasm. This unconventional concept is further enhanced by the car’s performance capabilities, driven by two independent BMW 100-horsepower motorcycle engines. Each engine powers a rear wheel, resulting in a sporty yet functional design that ensures ample interior space for its aquatic cargo.
The Design Performance Barramunda, a 13.8-foot-long masterpiece, seamlessly blends the exhilaration of driving with the excitement of water sports. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
Stepping into the Barramunda feels like entering a vessel ready to conquer both land and sea. Its interior design draws heavily from nautical themes, featuring a teak floorboard and brass fittings that evoke the charm of a luxury yacht. The teal-colored cabin amplifies this marine-inspired aesthetic, complemented by practical features such as washable upholstery. The seats, integrated into the chassis, offer a minimalist yet functional approach, while adjustable pedals and steering ensure comfort for the driver.
The Design Performance Barramunda features an interior inspired by nautical themes, creating the sensation of boarding a vessel ready to conquer land and sea. (Picture from: Cartefacts)
This one-of-a-kind vehicle made its debut at the 1994 Paris Motor Show, a moment of pride and anticipation for Design Performance. With an estimated price tag of $160,000 to $180,000, the Barramunda was positioned as a luxury item for those who dared to dream beyond the ordinary. However, despite its innovative design and ambitious vision, only one unit was ever produced. This singularity adds to the Barramunda’s allure, cementing its status as a rare artifact in the automotive world.
The Design Performance Barramunda designed to accommodate a full jet ski and two surfboards in its spacious rear. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
The Barramunda’s story is not just about a car but about the ambition to redefine possibilities. It represents a confluence of art, engineering, and passion—a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to create without limits. While the world may never see another vehicle quite like it, the legacy of the 1994 Design Performance Barramunda serves as a reminder that innovation often thrives at the intersection of the unexpected.
The Design Performance Barramunda is powered by two independent 100-horsepower BMW motorcycle engines, each driving a rear wheel, creating a sporty yet functional design that maximizes interior space for aquatic cargo. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
As we marvel at this wild, yellow masterpiece, we celebrate not just the machine but the daring visionaries who brought it to life. Their endeavor continues to inspire, inviting us all to dream a little bigger, push boundaries a little further, and explore new horizons. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | STORY-CARS | RARECARSONLY | ALLCARINDEX | CARTEFACTS | CARSTYLING.RU | AUTA5P.EU | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC ]
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Monday, May 26, 2025

Yamasa Raggio – From Ridge Racer to Real-World Supercar

Pixelborn Power - In a world where fantasy often stays locked behind screens, it's always a pleasant surprise when something born in digital pixels gets a shot at life in the real world. From sci-fi gadgets to iconic outfits, fans and creators have a way of bringing the virtual into the tangible. But perhaps nothing feels quite as thrilling as seeing a fictional car roar to life — especially one with the kind of flair and backstory that makes heads turn both on-screen and off. 
The Yamasa Raggio made its public debut and took its first test drive at Japan’s YZ Circuit in October 2005. (Picture from: Obscure Supercar on X)
That’s where the Yamasa Raggio comes into play — a car that isn’t just a nod to its video game roots but a full-on tribute to bold creativity and cross-cultural collaboration. Originally known as the Soldat Raggio in the Ridge Racer universe, this sleek machine began as a digital dream. 
In the Ridge Racer universe, the car is known as the Soldat Raggio, blending the drama of a Ferrari Enzo with the sharp finesse of a Honda NSX. (Picture from: Jalopnik)
In the lore of the game, Soldat is imagined as a French car manufacturer that absorbs an Italian company named Rivelta. It’s a fictional merger that echoes the real-world prestige of something like Bugatti — another Franco-Italian fusion of performance and style. With the Raggio (which fittingly means “ray” in Italian), this digital supercar combined the drama of an Ferrari Enzo with the sharp finesse of a Honda NSX. On screen, it looked fast. In reality? It was even better. | uiq64mxCfWo |
Turning a video game car into a physical showstopper isn’t a task for the faint of heart. But Yamasa, a Japanese company known for its flashy pachinko game machines, saw real potential in bringing the Raggio into our world — and found the perfect partner to make it happen. The build was entrusted to Project Mu, a respected name in high-performance braking systems.
The Yamasa Raggio was built on a Honda NSX frame and chassis, featuring a wildly customized aluminum body and powered by the NSX’s 3.2-liter C32B V6 engine. (Picture from: RidgeRacer on Reddit)
With an NSX as the base, the Yamasa Raggio was born and made its dazzling debut at the 2006 Tokyo Auto Salon. It wasn’t just a display piece, either. This car ran, drove, and handled with surprising poise, even showing up in a promotional video tied to Ridge Racers 2 for the PSP — a fitting blend of real and virtual.
The Yamasa Raggio featured a slightly shorter nose, a flatter rear, and a longer wheelbase — understandable compromises when working from an existing NSX frame. (Picture from: RidgeRacer on Reddit)
Underneath that wildly customized aluminum body, the car still held onto the soul of the Honda NSX’s 3.2-liter C32B V6 engine. But Project Mu didn’t stop there. It was upgraded with parts like an Ogura Racing clutch, a high-performance ARC radiator, a bespoke exhaust system, and a custom suspension setup — all tuned to match the flair and performance that its game counterpart implied. Of course, no Project Mu build would be complete without those iconic turquoise brake calipers showing up at all four corners.
The Yamasa Raggio offers a supercar-like cabin experience, highlighted by a sporty three-spoke steering wheel and a clean, driver-focused dashboard and center console. (Picture from: RidgeRacer on Reddit)
Even though the final product wasn't an exact one-to-one recreation of its digital ancestor, it was close enough to thrill fans and precise enough to impress engineers. The nose was slightly shorter, the rear a little flatter, and the wheelbase longer — understandable compromises when you’re working off an existing NSX frame. What really sold the illusion, though, was the full set of decals and branding from other Ridge Racer universe staples like Rally-X, Tekken, and Mappy. It wasn’t just a car — it was a full-blown tribute to an entire game culture.
What truly sold the illusion of the Yamasa Raggio was its full set of decals and branding from Ridge Racer universe staples like Rally-X, Tekken, and Mappy. (Picture from: RidgeRacer on Reddit)
But where is this eye-catching machine today? That’s a little murkier. While a blog post from Japanese detailing company Keeper Pro Shop gave brief hope that the Raggio might still be tucked away in decent shape, a closer look revealed that the photos likely dated back to 2005 or 2006 — around the same time of the car's reveal. Since then, sightings have been scarce, and the current condition and location of the Yamasa Raggio remain unknown, adding just a little more mystique to its already fascinating story. | Y3dSnULpV50 |
Still, even if it only popped into our world for a short time, the Yamasa Raggio proved that with the right blend of passion and skill, something once limited to game controllers and pixelated screens could tear across real pavement. It wasn’t just a build — it was a moment. And for those lucky enough to witness it, it’s one that’s hard to forget. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JALOPNIK | GTPLANET | FORUMS.FORZA.NET | OBSCURE SUPERCAR ON X | JAPANESE RACING CARS ON FACEBOOK | RIDGERACER ON REDDIT ]
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