Satecmo Eolia: A French Weird Bug With Double Massive Fins

Unique Creation - Imagine a racing car unlike any other, one that defies traditional design with its striking shape and innovative features. This unique car, often likened to a bug with large fins at the back, is not just a work of art but a product of intense engineering and a passion for racing. 

The Satecmo Eolia, designed by André George Claude, took several years to complete and was finally registered in 1958, ready for its intended purpose: racing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)

The man behind this creation was André George Claude, the son of the renowned French chemist and physicist George Claude. While his father made significant contributions to science, André’s interests took him down a different path—one that led to the design and construction of an extraordinary French racing car.

The Satecmo Eolia's design, featuring a magnesium body and streamlined Berlinetta style, was as remarkable as its performance, having undergone extensive wind tunnel testing.. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)

André's journey into the world of racing cars began with his own dissatisfaction with the options available to him. As an accomplished racing driver, having competed in prestigious events like the Tour de France, the Alpine Rally, and the Mont Ventoux Hillclimb, André felt that no car truly met his needs. This frustration drove him to design a car that combined speed, innovation, and French craftsmanship. His company, Satecmo, was tasked with building the car, which would feature a Renault engine—a company they were already collaborating with for tuning the 4CV model.

The Satecmo Eolia, named after Eolias, the God of the Winds in classical mythology, was a true marvel of engineering, blending innovation and craftsmanship in every detail. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)

The creation, named Satecmo Eolia after Eolias, the God of the Winds in classical mythology, was a marvel of engineering. The car's design took shape over several years, and by 1958, it was finally registered and ready for its intended purpose: racing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Unfortunately, this dream never materialized, but the car itself stood as a testament to André’s vision. It was fast, reaching a top speed of 104 mph, and offered impressive acceleration, thanks to the Renault 4CV engine mounted in the rear. André also designed a five-speed "reverse gate" gearbox, adding to the car’s advanced features for its time.

The Satecmo Eolia showcased André George Claude’s exceptional attention to detail, with every element—ranging from the placement of the 90-liter fuel tank to the right-hand steering wheel—carefully designed to enhance handling and balance. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)

The Eolia’s design was as remarkable as its performance. With a body crafted from magnesium and a streamlined Berlinetta style, the car had undergone extensive wind tunnel testing. Claude’s attention to detail ensured that every element, from the placement of the 90-liter fuel tank to the right-hand steering wheel, contributed to optimal handling and balance. His dedication to aerodynamics and lightweight materials allowed the Eolia to maintain a competitive edge, even in an era when many cars were built with more conventional methods.

The Satecmo Eolia was initially powered by a Renault 4CV engine mounted in the rear, which was replaced in 1960 with an engine from a Renault Dauphine Gordini. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)

In 1960, the car received a significant upgrade when it was fitted with the engine from a Renault Dauphine Gordini. Tuning experts at Renault further enhanced the engine, pushing its output to around 69 horsepower. This made the Eolia not just a unique creation, but a serious contender in the racing world. Yet, despite the car’s potential, André’s dreams of entering it into the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans remained unrealized, and the car was eventually sold in 1967.

The Satecmo Eolia stands out with its striking design, featuring two large double fins mounted at the rear, enhancing both its aerodynamics and unique appearance. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)

The Eolia’s journey didn’t end there. It was sold to a young engineer and spent many years in South West France before being acquired by its current owner in 2006. Remarkably, the car still only has 15,000 kilometers on the odometer, and its original features, including the Claude-designed 5-speed gearbox and electrical equipment, remain in excellent condition. The car is road-legal with French registration and is surprisingly fast, offering an exhilarating driving experience thanks to its lightweight body and tuned engine. | GJf7j0MSAUY |

Today, the Eolia is a rare and sought-after piece of automotive history, offering enthusiasts the chance to own a car that combines advanced design with racing heritage. With its unique features and competitive potential, this remarkable vehicle could be a valuable asset in various UK and European racing series. For those looking for a truly special car that showcases innovation and craftsmanship, the Eolia is an opportunity not to be missed.  *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ICONICAUCTIONEERS | CLASSICDRIVER | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS ON FACEBOOK |]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

Cadillac PF200 Cabriolet: A Rare Classic Masterpiece

The KING - It's not every day that a story surfaces about a cover-up involving a King. Yet, when it does, and it involves a custom-built Cadillac designed by the renowned Pininfarina, it instantly piques the interest of car enthusiasts. The tale of this exceptional Cadillac traces back to the early 1950s, a time when innovation in design was celebrated and affluent individuals sought vehicles that made a statement. In this case, the story begins with Norman Granz, a Beverly Hills concert promoter and record producer who envisioned something extraordinary.

The 1954 Cadillac PF200 cabriolet’s design was sleek and minimalist, reflecting the clean, modern lines that were synonymous with Pininfarina’s style. (Picture from: DeanGarage)

In 1953, Granz, who had made a name for himself in the music industry by producing live-concert records, shipped a Series 62 Cadillac to Pininfarina in Italy. The goal was to create a completely new body for the car, one that would reflect the elegance and sophistication that Pininfarina was famous for. Granz, who had amassed considerable wealth from his success with record labels like Clef, Norgan, and Verve, was certainly no stranger to luxury. After selling his music catalog to MGM in 1961 for a cool $2.5 million, he took a step back from the music world, but his love for exceptional automobiles never waned.

Originally painted silver, the 1954 Cadillac PF200 roadster was fully restored after an accident, with its color changed to blue and air vents added to the sides. (Picture from: DeanGarage)

The inspiration for Granz's Cadillac transformation came during his visit to the 1952 Geneva Auto Salon, where he laid eyes on the PF200—a stunning car designed by Pininfarina and built on a Lancia chassis. The sleek lines and innovative design captivated him, and he decided he wanted a similar body, but scaled up to fit his American Cadillac chassis. This decision would lead to the creation of a unique, one-of-a-kind roadster that perfectly blended American power with Italian design finesse.

A side view comparison of the Cadillac PF200 roadster shows the original silver-painted version (bottom image) alongside its fully restored condition, featuring a blue color and added side air vents (top image). (Picture from: DeanGarage)

Cost was no object for someone of Granz's stature. The price for this automotive masterpiece was reportedly set at the cost of materials, but with a twist—Granz sweetened the deal by offering a complete collection of his record productions. This included works from legendary musicians such as Ella Fitzgerald, Joe Pass, and Oscar Peterson, all of whom he managed. Other jazz greats like Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, and Sarah Vaughan were also part of this incredible collection. This barter, which mixed automotive excellence with musical genius, was truly a one-of-a-kind transaction.

The 1954 Cadillac PF200 Cabriolet was a two-door, three-seater roadster originally painted silver, later restored with a blue color and added side air vents. (Picture from: Paul Balze in Flickr)

The final result was a two-door, three-seater roadster painted in silver. Although Granz wanted the car to exude European style, he also wanted to retain a strong connection to its Cadillac roots. To ensure this, the car was fitted with signature Cadillac-style bumpers, and the iconic Cadillac "V" emblem was prominently displayed on both the radiator grille and the trunk lid. These elements ensured that, despite its exotic Italian bodywork, the car was unmistakably a Cadillac at heart.

The Cadillac PF200 roadster's grille, framed in chrome, featured a chrome "V," a key design element that linked the car to its Cadillac heritage. (Picture from: DeanGarage)

Dubbed the Cadillac PF200, this concept car was officially introduced in 1954. Pininfarina, responsible for its design and construction, gave the car a distinct aesthetic, starting with its large oval grille framed in chrome. The grille also featured a chrome "V," which was a key design element that tied the car back to its Cadillac heritage. Cadillac wheel discs from 1953 were used, further cementing its identity, despite its radically different appearance.

Inside, the Cadillac PF200 cabriolet was as luxurious as the exterior suggested, with the cabin upholstered in while leather. (Picture from: DeanGarage)

Inside, the car was as luxurious as the exterior suggested. The cabin was upholstered in tan leather, providing an elegant contrast to the silver-gray exterior paint. The roadster’s design was sleek and minimalist, reflecting the clean, modern lines that were synonymous with Pininfarina’s style. The two-seat layout emphasized the car's sportiness, while the roadster’s proportions made it feel far more compact than a typical Cadillac of the era.

The 1954 Cadillac PF200 cabriolet was powered by the same engine as the Series 62 Cadillac, a 346 cu in (5.7 L) Monobloc V8.  (Picture from: DeanGarage)

There is some debate about the origins of this particular Cadillac model. While many sources agree that it was a custom car commissioned by Granz and built by Pininfarina, others suggest that it might have had a different origin. From several sources such Carstyling.ru, and DeanGarage write that the car was actually commissioned for Luigi Chinetti, an influential Ferrari importer and close friend of Enzo Ferrari. However, the connection between Chinetti and this Cadillac remains speculative, with little concrete evidence to support this theory. Regardless, what is clear is that the Cadillac PF200 cabriolet was a one-off masterpiece, never intended for mass production.

The Cadillac PF200 Cabriolet is often referred to as the "King of Cadillacs," a fitting title for such a unique and elegant creation. (Picture from: Paul Balze in Flickr)

The Cadillac PF200 Cabriolet is often referred to as the "King of Cadillacs," a fitting title for such a unique and elegant creation. The car’s blend of American engineering and Italian design makes it a standout among the many Cadillacs produced during that era. Its rarity and beauty contribute to its legendary status, much like the idea that there can only be one true "King." This car represents a moment in time when customization, creativity, and collaboration across industries came together to create something truly special.

In the world of automobiles, the story of Norman Granz’s Cadillac PF200 serves as a reminder of the golden age of design, when carmakers pushed boundaries and individuals sought vehicles that were more than just transportation—they were symbols of status, taste, and personality. Today, the legacy of this remarkable car lives on, not just in the memories of those who witnessed it but in the broader history of automotive design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DEANGARAGE | CARSTYLING.RU | OLDCONCEPTCARS | CLASSICCARS.FANDOM | ALLCARINDEX | PAUL BALZE IN FLICKR | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI ]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

From De Tomaso Biguà to Qvale Mangusta: A Journey of Evolution

Forgotten ONES - The world of automotive history is dotted with fascinating tales of innovation, ambition, and occasional misfortune. One such intriguing story revolves around De Tomaso, an Italian premium car brand that has left an indelible mark on the racing and exotic car industry. Founded by Alejandro De Tomaso in 1959 in Modena, Italy, this brand has witnessed a rollercoaster journey, particularly in the 1990s when Alejandro himself continued to design exotic cars until his passing in 2006.

The De Tomaso Biguà was one of the last models crafted by the iconic Italian car manufacturer before the company ceased production. (Picture from: Supercars.net)

The De Tomaso Biguà was one of the last models crafted by the iconic Italian car manufacturer alongside the De Tomaso Guarà of 1993 before the company ceased production. The De Tomaso Biguà represented a bold new direction for the brand. Alejandro De Tomaso, despite facing health issues, envisioned the Biguà as a unique sports car with a distinctive retractable roof that could transform it from a coupe to a convertible or targa.

The De Tomaso Biguà represented a bold new direction for the brand, inspired by the simplicity and elegance of TVR designs. (Picture from: DeTomasoDC.co.uk)

In the early 1990s, as De Tomaso's health declined, the management of the company became more challenging. During this period, Maserati’s chief engineer, Giordano Casarini, inspired by the simplicity and elegance of TVR designs, proposed the concept of the Biguà. He developed a straightforward front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FR) chassis based on a Ford V8 engine. This combination promised a blend of power and versatility, making the Biguà a standout in the sports car market.

The De Tomaso Biguà envisioned the Biguà as a unique sports car with a distinctive retractable roof that could transform it from a coupe to a convertible or targa. (Picture from: DeTomasoDC.co.uk)

The prototype of the De Tomaso Biguà was unveiled at the 1996 Geneva Motor Show, where it garnered significant attention. Among the admirers were the Qvale family, prominent US importers of European prestige cars. They saw the potential in the Biguà and decided to invest in its development, providing the necessary funding to transition the concept into a production-ready vehicle. Their involvement was crucial, as they anticipated strong demand from the US market and built a new assembly plant in Modena to meet this expected demand.

The De Tomaso Biguà featured a straightforward front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FR) chassis based on a Ford V8 engine. (Picture from: Supercars.net)

Initially, the plan was to market the car as the De Tomaso Mangusta, a name that carried historical significance for the brand. However, due to ongoing management issues at De Tomaso and the shifting dynamics within the company, Qvale eventually took over the entire project. When the car finally went into production in 2000, it was rebranded as the Qvale Mangusta. Despite this change, the car retained many of the core design elements and engineering principles envisioned by Casarini and De Tomaso.

The Qvale Mangusta is the production version of the De Tomaso Biguà, retaining many of the core design elements and engineering principles envisioned by Casarini and De Tomaso. (Picture from: Supercars.net)

The De Tomaso Biguà, in its conceptual stage, featured a composite body and a robust box-section steel chassis, supported by double-wishbone suspensions. True to De Tomaso’s tradition, it utilized a stock Ford V8 engine and transmission from the Mustang Cobra. This setup ensured compliance with Federal emission and safety standards, making it suitable for the US market.

The car's angular exterior, designed by Marcello Gandini, known for his work on the Lamborghini Miura and Countach, had mixed reviews. Despite some criticisms of its bulk and high bonnet, necessitated by the tall Mustang V8, the Biguà's standout feature was its flexible roof panel, allowing it to switch between a Coupe, Targa, or Roadster.

Ultimately, the De Tomaso Biguà represents a fascinating chapter in the history of De Tomaso. It showcased the brand's commitment to innovation and adaptability, even in the face of significant challenges. While it never reached production under its original name, the spirit and vision of the Biguà lived on through its transformation into the Qvale Mangusta. This car remains a testament to the enduring legacy of De Tomaso and the creative ingenuity that defined the brand. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DETOMASODC.CO.UK | SUPERCARS.NET | PANTERA.INFOPOP | AUTOMOBILE.FANDOM ]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

Yamaha Morpho Concept: A Futuristic Marvel That Never Hit the Road

Unique ONES - The late 1980s and early 1990s were an era when motorcycle manufacturers sought to redefine the future of design and engineering. Concepts like Suzuki Falcorustyco and Yamaha Morpho captured the imagination of enthusiasts, pushing the boundaries of what motorcycles could be. Among these daring creations, the Yamaha Morpho Concept stood out as a bold and innovative masterpiece that showcased Yamaha's vision of the future. Although it never reached production, the Morpho remains an enduring symbol of ambition and creativity in the superbike world.

The Yamaha Morpho Concept, first revealed at the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show, showcased a striking fusion of futuristic aesthetics and groundbreaking technology. (Picture from: EnoAnderson)

First revealed at the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show, the Morpho Concept was a striking fusion of futuristic aesthetics and groundbreaking technology. Central to its design was the Rotational Advanced Design Development (RADD) suspension system, created by Stanford-trained engineer James Parker. This innovative system replaced the traditional telescopic forks, separating the steering function from the suspension. By doing so, it allowed for a lower center of gravity, offering improved stability and handling. Yamaha collaborated with the GK Dynamics Design Group to bring this revolutionary idea to life, resulting in a design that was as functional as it was visually captivating.

The Yamaha Morpho Concept featured the innovative RADD suspension system by Stanford-trained engineer James Parker, replacing traditional telescopic forks by separating steering from suspension. (Picture from: TotalMotorcycle)

The Morpho’s bodywork exemplified 1980s futurism, with a sleek, aerodynamic profile that looked ahead of its time. Its exhaust system was integrated seamlessly into the fairing, contributing to its clean and modern appearance. The bike was also highly adaptable, featuring adjustable handlebars, seat height, and foot pegs, allowing riders to tailor the experience to their needs. This versatility inspired the bike’s name, derived from the Morpho butterfly, which is known for its ability to change color under different lighting conditions—a fitting metaphor for a motorcycle designed to adapt and evolve.

The Yamaha Morpho Concept was powered by a 1,003cc inline-four engine delivering 110 horsepower and a top speed of 190 mph, blending innovation with superbike performance. (Picture from: id.Motor1)

Beneath its striking exterior, the Morpho Concept was powered by a 1,003 cc inline-four engine, producing an impressive 110 horsepower. With a top speed of 190 mph (305 kph), it was a machine built for the superbike category, blending performance with innovation. However, despite its promising specifications, the Morpho never transitioned from concept to production. The costs and complexities of implementing its advanced features proved too challenging for Yamaha at the time.

The Yamaha Morpho 2 Concept, an updated version of the original design, unveiled at the 1991 Tokyo Motor Show. (Picture from: Otomotif.Sindonews)

Yamaha revisited the concept in 1991 with the Morpho 2, an updated version of the original design. Yet, this second attempt also failed to move beyond the prototype stage, leaving the Morpho as a fascinating "what-if" in motorcycle history. While it shared a similar fate with other ambitious projects of its era, such as the aforementioned Falcorustyco, the Morpho set itself apart through its unique focus on adaptability and the innovative RADD suspension system.

The Yamaha Morpho 2 Concept, an updated version of the original design, also failed to progress beyond the prototype stage, leaving the Morpho a captivating 'what-if' in motorcycle history. (Picture from: id.Motor1)

Although the Morpho Concept never reached consumers, its legacy endured. The RADD suspension system was later implemented in the Yamaha GTS1000, a sport-touring motorcycle released in the early 1990s. While the GTS1000 was short-lived, discontinued in 1999, it served as a testament to Yamaha’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries. For many, however, the RADD system remains most closely associated with the Morpho, a bike that symbolized the bold spirit of its time.

The Yamaha Morpho Concept remains a vivid example of what happens when imagination meets engineering. Its futuristic design and innovative features continue to inspire motorcycle enthusiasts and designers alike. Even though it never made it to production, the Morpho stands as a reminder of the power of ambition and the enduring allure of dreams that dare to push the boundaries of possibility.

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 | GK-DESIGN | TOTALMOTORCYCLE | ENOANDERSON | ID.MOTOR1 ]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

Voodoo Spider: Elden Titus's Masterpiece in Custom Cars

Custom Brilliance - The world of custom car building is a realm where artistry meets engineering, and few names resonate as profoundly as Elden Titus. For decades, this visionary designer redefined the possibilities of automotive craftsmanship, creating vehicles that merged functionality with an unmistakable aesthetic. One of his crowning achievements is the legendary Voodoo Spider, a hand-built masterpiece that continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The legendary Voodoo Spider, a hand-built masterpiece of Elden Titus that continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts and collectors alike. (Picture from: ModelCarsMag)

The story of the Voodoo Spider begins with a deep passion for pushing the boundaries of design. Elden Titus, often working alongside his brother Jerry, devoted his life to crafting extraordinary automobiles that transcended the conventional. The Voodoo Spider, built upon the foundation of a Jaguar XJS, is a testament to this dedication. Elden meticulously transformed every inch of the vehicle’s body, replacing the original design with hand-formed metalwork that is as elegant as it is groundbreaking. 

The Voodoo Spider, finished in Candy Apple Red with black pearl accents laid down by Ryan James and Elden Titus, elevates the car's dramatic contours, with a silver base providing luminous depth, making it a vehicle designed to turn heads and evoke wonder.. (Picture from: CoffinCorner.Proboard)

The Candy Apple Red paint was laid down by Ryan James and Elden Titus, highlighted with black pearl accents, elevates the car’s dramatic contours, while the silver base provides a luminous depth. This was a vehicle designed to turn heads and evoke wonder.

The Voodoo Spider, with an interior designed to resemble an aircraft cockpit, is a symphony of precision and creativity, featuring custom steering, instrument housings, and an electric drop-down license plate box, all reflecting Elden’s commitment to perfection. (Picture from: CoffinCorner.Proboard)

The interior of the Voodoo Spider is as striking as its exterior. Designed to resemble the cockpit of an aircraft, it is a symphony of precision and creativity. From the custom steering wheel and instrument housings to the electric drop-down license plate box, every detail showcases Elden’s commitment to perfection. The chrome-plated art spiders and machined valve covers serve as unique adornments, blending artistry with function in a way that few could achieve.

The Voodoo Spider, currently residing at Darryl Starbird's Rod & Custom Hall of Fame in Oklahoma, showcases Elden’s mastery in blending innovation with spectacle. (Picture from: CNET)

Under the hood, the Voodoo Spider boasts a 327 Chevy engine paired with a turbo transmission. The Jaguar XJS disk brake differential, adorned with custom chrome artwork, highlights the technical prowess that went into its creation. Even the electric hood opening mechanism reflects Elden’s ability to blend innovation with spectacle. This is not just a car; it’s a narrative of craftsmanship that tells a story every time the engine roars to life.

The Voodoo Spider has starred in numerous car shows, from the Culver City California Car Show to the Super Nationals in Albuquerque. (Picture from: CNET)

The Voodoo Spider’s reputation extends far beyond its technical achievements. This custom creation has been a star at numerous car shows, from the Culver City California Car Show to The Super Nationals in Albuquerque. It has graced the halls of Darryl Starbird’s Rod & Custom Hall of Fame in Oklahoma and claimed over ten top awards at prestigious competitions. Its ability to captivate audiences is a tribute to the vision and skill that Elden Titus poured into every detail.

The Vampyre, one of Elden Titus' monumental works, remains on display at Darryl Starbird's Rod & Custom Hall of Fame in Oklahoma. (Picture from: CNET)

Elden’s journey into the world of custom car building began long before the Voodoo Spider. As a child, he built intricate scale models that hinted at the designer he would become. His partnership with Darryl Starbird in the late 1960s marked the start of a career that would leave an indelible mark on the automotive world. Alongside his brother Jerry, Elden helped revive the custom car movement during the 1970s. The Merc/Deuce Reunion and the creation of the Kustom Kemps of America club were pivotal in rekindling the passion for custom car culture, culminating in the Leadsled Spectacular event in Wichita, Kansas.

The Vibrasonic, exhibited at Darryl Starbird's Rod & Custom Hall of Fame in Oklahoma, is known as Elden Titus' final work before his passing in 2008. (Picture from: CNET)

Despite his many accomplishments, Elden never lost his drive for innovation. In the years leading up to his untimely passing, he continued to push boundaries with projects like the Vampyre and the wedge-shaped Vibrasonic. The Voodoo Spider, however, remains his magnum opus—a symbol of his ability to dream boldly and execute flawlessly. | N7HcLzeV2G0 |

As we reflect on the legacy of Elden Titus, the Voodoo Spider stands as a shining example of his talent, dedication, and vision. It is more than a car; it is a work of art that continues to inspire generations of car builders and enthusiasts. Through this extraordinary creation, Elden’s spirit lives on, reminding us that the pursuit of excellence can result in timeless beauty. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOTROD | COFFINCORNER.PROBOARD | MODELCARSMAG | JALOPYJOURNAL | STARBIRDCARSHOW ON FACEBOOK | STRAYKAT.KUSTOM ON FACEBOOK | MARKETPLACE ON FACEBOOK | CNET ]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

DragStar F1 Dragon: Roaring Like a Rockstar on the Streets

Unique ONES - When it comes to custom cars, Japan has a long history of standing out with bold, creative, and technically impressive projects. This isn't surprising given the nation's rich talent pool in the automotive industry. The combination of technical expertise and an eye for innovation has led to the creation of unique vehicles that are admired by enthusiasts worldwide. One such creation that caught the attention of many is the DragStar F1 Dragon, a remarkable car that made its debut in 2011. This car is a bold statement of custom automotive design, and its story is one that blends craftsmanship with a vision for something entirely different from the norm, and inspired by Japan’s “bosozoku” car culture.

The DragStar F1 Dragon was a remarkable car that made its debut in 2011 and born from the ambitions of Value Progress. (Picture from: Carscoops)

The DragStar F1 Dragon was born from the ambitions of Value Progress, a custom car manufacturer with a passion for creating distinctive sports cars. They set out to design a long-nose, short-deck vehicle that resembled a drag machine, combining both aesthetics and performance. Interestingly, the DragStar F1 Dragon wasn’t the first iteration of this idea. In 2010, Value Progress had already introduced the DragStar F1 at the Tokyo Auto Salon, where it earned recognition and won the Excellence Award in the Concept Car category. This success laid the groundwork for an even more advanced version—the DragStar F1 Dragon.

Measuring 5,200 mm in length, 2,160 mm in width, and 1,180 mm in height, it commands attention on the road. (Picture from: Piximus)

Using a Toyota MR-S as the base, the team at Value Progress extended the wheelbase by 1,100 mm, dramatically altering the car’s proportions. By reinforcing the structure with a main frame beneath the vehicle, they were able to achieve significant body rigidity. This design decision also resulted in a flat floor, which improved the car's overall aerodynamics. While the predecessor DragStar F1 had already turned heads with its unique design, the Dragon took things even further. Fully armed with aerodynamic enhancements, the DragStar F1 Dragon was designed to be both visually striking and capable of passing vehicle inspections, making it street legal.

Fully armed with aerodynamic enhancements, the DragStar F1 Dragon was designed to be both visually striking and capable of passing vehicle inspections, making it street legal. (Picture from: ValueProgress)

One of the most impressive aspects of the DragStar F1 Dragon is its size and bold exterior design. Measuring 5,200 mm in length, 2,160 mm in width, and 1,180 mm in height, it commands attention on the road. Its striking red color only adds to its aggressive appearance, making it difficult to ignore when spotted on public roads. Beneath the hood, the Dragon is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter "1ZZ-FE" inline 4-cylinder engine, which generates 140 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and a maximum torque of 17.4 kgm at 4,400 rpm. This powertrain, paired with either a manual or automatic manual transmission, is similar to that of the Toyota MR-S, though the car’s exterior might make you forget its humble origins.

Unless you take a peek at the interior, there's no way you'll be able to recognize the Toyota MR-2 hiding under the striking DragStar F1 Dragon red-armor. (Picture from: Kurama-News.jp)

Customization is a key feature of the DragStar F1 Dragon, with bolt-on parts allowing owners to make the car truly their own. Value Progress designed it with the idea of giving customers the freedom to create a completely original vehicle, building on the foundation of their unique vision. This ability to personalize the car has added to its appeal among automotive enthusiasts who want something truly one-of-a-kind.

The DragStar F1 Dragon features Ferrari Testarossa-like side strakes and a dramatically extended nose, have given it an entirely new identity. (Picture from: Kurama-News.jp)

Despite being based on the Toyota MR-S, the DragStar F1 Dragon is almost unrecognizable compared to its donor car. The massive changes to the exterior, including Ferrari Testarossa-like side strakes and a dramatically extended nose, have given it an entirely new identity. The only hint of the MR-S under all the custom work is when you take a look inside. However, even with all these radical modifications, the Dragon retains the mid-engine layout of the original MR-S, ensuring it maintains a balanced and performance-oriented driving experience.

Despite being based on the Toyota MR-S, the DragStar F1 Dragon is almost unrecognizable compared to its donor car. (Picture from: Piximus)

Public reaction to the DragStar F1 Dragon has been mixed, with some people expressing admiration for its bold design, while others find the drastic styling too much. Comments like "It's cool!" and "It will definitely turn heads" are common, highlighting the car’s ability to make an impression, whether positive or controversial. This divisive reception only adds to the mystique of the DragStar F1 Dragon, as it continues to be a conversation starter among car enthusiasts. | a1_nmh6W6cQ |

At its core, the DragStar F1 Dragon represents the endless possibilities of custom car design. It’s a reminder that creativity and vision can transform even the most familiar platforms into something extraordinary. Whether you view it as a masterpiece or an outlandish creation, there’s no denying that the DragStar F1 Dragon is a bold testament to the world of custom car culture, and it continues to capture the imaginations of those who encounter it on the road. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VALUEPROGGRESS | CARSCOOPS | KURAMA-NEWS.JP | PIXIMUS ]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone