BOLD New LOOK - Lamborghini's supercars are famous for their aggressive design. Models like the Lamborghini Aventador, Huracán, and Urus are known for their bold lines that exude a fierce look.
The 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato is final iteration of the 5-95 Zagato series, while attended at the opening of the first edition of the Hong Kong International MotorXpo 2019. (Picture from: Zagato in Facebook)
However, not everyone is aware that some Lamborghini supercars, particularly those crafted by Zagato, feature a more fluid and dynamic body shape. Among these is the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato series, which includes the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato and the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Second Edition.
The 2014 Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato, crafted under the commission of Swiss luxury car collector Albert Spiess, debuted at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in Cernobbio, Italy. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
The Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato series stands out significantly from the standard Gallardo. This series was followed the Lamborghini Zagato Raptor model launched in 1996, and marked a significant milestone for Zagato, showcasing ambitious designs with innovative elements.
The 2014 Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Second Edition, built on the same Gallardo LP570-4 platform, was launched just two months after the first edition. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
Initially, the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato was commissioned by Swiss luxury car collector Albert Spiess and made its debut in 2014 at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in Cernobbio, Italy. This special model was created to celebrate Zagato's 95th anniversary. The 5-95 Zagato is based on the Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4, sharing many performance components, including the same V10 engine.
The 2016 Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Valentino Balboni edition, crafted to commemorate Zagato's 100th Anniversary.
(Picture from: Autocar.jp)
Shortly after, the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Second Edition was introduced. This supercar, also based on the Gallardo LP 570-4, was kept under wraps regarding its first buyer. Only five units were planned for global production, making it an exclusive model for collectors.
The 2016 Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Valentino Balboni edition, 100th Anniversary Model, while attended at the Concorso d’Eleganza Kyoto 2019. (Picture from: Autocar.jp)
The sharp lines of the original Gallardo were refined by Zagato's designers, resulting in a more dynamic and curvaceous body. Starting with the front fascia, the 5-95Zagato features an oval-shaped grille and layered headlamps that blend seamlessly with the front body.
Moving to the sides, the front and rear fenders are elegantly curved, enhancing the car's dynamic appearance. The rear of the car sports redesigned taillights, harmonizing with the overall sleek body design. These taillights bear a resemblance to those of the Alfa Romeo 8C and Lotus Elise.
In 2018, rumors swirled about a new version of the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato, which surfaced on Zagato’s website under the badge '2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
Under the hood, the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato series retains the same powerhouse as the standard Gallardo. It boasts a V10 engine with a 5,200 cc capacity, delivering 562 hp and a maximum torque of 540 Nm. This impressive engine powers the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, with a top speed of 325 km/h. The engine's wild power is transmitted to all four wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission.
The 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato is final iteration of the 5-95 Zagato series, while attended at the opening of the first edition of the Hong Kong International MotorXpo 2019. (Picture from: ExclusiveRegestry)
The story didn't end there. In 2016, the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Valentino Balboni 100th Edition was launched to commemorate Zagato's 100th anniversary. This model featured intricate details that captivated car enthusiasts, ensuring a timeless design that never grows old.
The 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato is final iteration of the 5-95 Zagato series, while attended at the opening of the first edition of the Hong Kong International MotorXpo 2019.(Picture from: ExclusiveRegestry)
In 2018, rumors swirled about a new version of the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato. The Milan-based coachbuilder reportedly created a Spider version, named the 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato. This new model featured a practical, foldable roof, but detailed specifications remained a mystery. Despite the limited publicity, the car's design continued the legacy of the iconic Lamborghini 350 GTZ and 400 GTZ from the 1960s.
The 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato is final iteration of the 5-95 Zagato series, while attended at the opening of the first edition of the Hong Kong International MotorXpo 2019. (Picture from: ExclusiveRegestry)
Eventually, the 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato, also known as the Lamborghini 5-95 Spider Zagato, was spotted at the Hong Kong International MotorXpo. Its rounded lines and unique style enchanted attendees, maintaining the timeless appeal of Zagato's designs. Unfortunately it is not known whether this 5-95 Spider Zagato was produced, because to date there is very little information about this model.
The 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato is final iteration of the 5-95 Zagato series, while attended at the opening of the first edition of the Hong Kong International MotorXpo 2019. (Picture from: ExclusiveRegestry)
The ONE & ONLY - Imagine the excitement of a forgotten dream coming to life after over 90 years. The Auto Union Silver Arrows, renowned for their dominance in 1930s Grand Prix racing, hold a little-known secret: a planned street-legal sports car with a 16-cylinder engine. This concept, known as the Auto Union Typ 52 'Schnellsportwagen,' has now been realized by Audi and is set to debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024 in mid-July.
The Auto Union Typ 52 'Schnellsportwagen,' originally a street-legal variant of Porsche-developed race cars for Auto Union, saw design sketches emerging by late 1933, solidifying by 1934, but the project was abandoned in 1935. (Picture from: Autogen.pl)
One-Off - Since its inception in 1919, Stola has carved a niche for itself in the automotive industry, consistently demonstrating its prowess in vehicle manufacturing from initial concept to final production. This heritage of excellence was epitomized at the 75th Geneva International Motor Show in 2005, where Stola unveiled the S86 Diamante, a new show model designed by the legendary Marcello Gandini.
The Stola S86 Diamante showcases the Italian brand's exceptional ability to deliver rapid, tailor-made engineering solutions, designed by the legendary Marcello Gandini. (Picture from: ArchivioPrototipi)
The Stola S86 Diamante showcases the Italian brand's exceptional ability to deliver rapid, tailor-made engineering solutions. This model is a testament to Stola's capability to execute a complete vehicle development plan—from stylistic feasibilities to small-series production—within an impressively short period. Remarkably, the S86 Diamante was completed in just five weeks before its debut at Geneva, highlighting Stola’s efficiency and dedication.
The remarkable feat of producing the S86 Diamante in just five weeks illustrates Stola’s unparalleled efficiency and the seamless integration of design and engineering.(Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
Marcello Gandini, renowned for his iconic designs for Lamborghini, including the Espada, Jarama, Urraco, Miura, and Countach, embraced this ambitious project despite the tight schedule. While some critics might argue that the S86 Diamante lacks the refinement of Gandini’s earlier works, likely due to the rush, the vehicle’s design still captures attention with its modern and dynamic aesthetic. The craftsmanship, especially in the interior, is a testament to Stola’s commitment to quality, even under time constraints.
The dimensions of the Stola S86 Diamante—a length of 4,275 mm, a width of 1,930 mm, a height of 1,225 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,600 mm.(Picture from: Supercars.net)
The S86 Diamante is more than just a showpiece; it embodies Stola’s philosophy of "Tailor Made Engineering." This approach allows Stola to develop projects from the initial stylistic feasibility phase to small-series production efficiently and precisely. The dimensions of the S86 Diamante—a length of 4,275 mm, a width of 1,930 mm, a height of 1,225 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,600 mm—contribute to its balanced and sleek profile. The front and rear tracks, measuring 1,535 mm and 1,555 mm respectively, enhance its stability and performance.
The craftsmanship, especially in the S86 Diamante's interior, is a testament to Stola’s commitment to quality, even under time constraints.(Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
Stola’s achievement with the S86 Diamante underscores its ability to meet customer needs swiftly and effectively. This model serves as a tangible demonstration of Stola’s capability to produce high-quality vehicles under tight deadlines, maintaining competitive development costs and ensuring rapid time-to-market. The S86 Diamante is neither a mere stylistic exercise nor just a show car; it is a clear example of Stola’s dedication to engineering excellence tailored to specific customer requirements.
The Stola S86 Diamante stands as a beacon of its expertise and commitment to quality. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
As Stola continues to innovate and push the boundaries of automotive engineering, the S86 Diamante stands as a beacon of its expertise and commitment to quality. The company's ability to adapt and deliver, even under the most challenging timelines, solidifies its reputation as a leader in the industry. The unveiling of the S86 Diamante at the Geneva Motor Show not only highlighted Stola's rich history but also paved the way for future innovations, demonstrating that with passion and precision, anything is possible. | GaRjbCPFlXE |
The remarkable feat of producing the S86 Diamante in just five weeks illustrates Stola’s unparalleled efficiency and the seamless integration of design and engineering. This achievement is a promising indication of what the future holds for Stola and its potential to continue setting benchmarks in the automotive world. With a legacy built on innovation and excellence, Stola is well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of the automotive industry, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of vehicle manufacturing for years to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | ULTIMATECARPAGE | SUPERCARS.NET | ARCHIVIOPROTOTIPI ]
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Rare Gems - In the realm of automotive history, few vehicles have captured the imagination quite like the Fiat 500 Topolino. Emerging in the wake of Dr. Ferdinand Porsche's creation, the Volkswagen Beetle, Italy introduced its own marvel: the Fiat 500 Topolino, affectionately named after Mickey Mouse for its compact charm. Spearheaded by Antonio Fessia and Dante Giacosa in the 1930s, this car wasn't just a vehicle; it was a symbol of accessible mobility for the masses.
The Fasana Topolino Spider built by Michele Fasana in 1957 based on the Fiat 500 Topolino. (Picture from: OcalaAutoRepair)
Measuring a mere 3.2 meters long, the Fiat 500 Topolino packed a punch with its 569 cc engine generating 13 horsepower, cruising at a modest 85 km/h. It marked Fiat's foray into mass production from 1936 to 1955, paving the way for a lineage of modern city cars that still dot our streets today.
The Fiat 500 Topolino, celebrated as the world's first city car, was produced from 1936 to 1955 and laid the foundation for a series of modern Fiat city cars that continue to this day. (Picture from: AutoUniversum)
Beyond its utilitarian roots, the Fiat 500 Topolino found itself on unexpected stages. It served as the blueprint for racing machines and became a canvas for custom projects, none more striking than the 1957 Fasana Topolino Spider. Crafted by Michele Fasana, an employee in Fiat's Special Bodies Department, envisioned and brought this remarkable vehicle to life in 1957. His passion for car design and his innovative approach have left an indelible mark on automotive history.
1938 Fiat 500A Topolino Hard Top by Zagato participated on the 1938 Mille Miglia (B&W photo colorized). (Picture from: MrScharroo's Weird Car Museum)
He began this project by sketching a design inspired by the jet age aesthetics of the 1950s. By using the chassis and mechanical components of the Fiat 500 Topolino, Fasana meticulously crafted the bodywork by himself during his free time. The result was a car that not only captured the futuristic design trends of the time but also showcased Fasana's exceptional skill and attention to detail. The front bumper featured a jet-themed intake and a large elliptical grille flanked by several lights, giving the car a distinct and memorable look.
The Fasana Topolino Spider, in its heyday, was used by its creator as a daily vehicle.(Picture from: WorldCarsFrom1930sTo1980s)
The rear design of the Fasana Topolino Spider
was equally impressive, with small fins and three tiny lights that
added to its unique character. This combination of elements made the car
stand out, evoking comparisons to the FMR Tg 500 'Tiger', another small car from a German manufacturer. The resemblance to the tiny car from "The Jetsons,"
a classic television cartoon series, further underscored its futuristic
appeal. The car's design was a perfect blend of innovation and
nostalgia, making it a true masterpiece of its time.
During its heyday, the Fasana Topolino Spider was not just a showpiece but a functional vehicle used by Michele Fasana as his daily driver. This personal connection to the car added to its charm and significance, as it was a practical realization of Fasana's design vision. The car's performance and unique design made it a head-turner on the streets, embodying the spirit of innovation that drove its creation.
While sat on diplay at the Automotoretrò 2016, the Fasana Topolino Spider in a dilapidated state, with rust covering most of its body. (Picture from: OcalaAutoRepair)
Despite its initial glory, the Fasana Topolino Spider's current condition is a cause for concern. Photos circulating on the internet show the car in a dilapidated state, with rust covering most of its body. It is a stark reminder of the passage of time and the need for preservation. This rare automotive gem deserves to be restored to its former glory, allowing future generations to appreciate its historical and artistic significance.
While sat on diplay at the Automotoretrò 2016, the Fasana Topolino Spider in a dilapidated state, with rust covering most of its body.(Picture from: Pinterest)
Restoring the Fasana Topolino Spider would not only preserve a piece of automotive history but also celebrate Michele Fasana's ingenuity and craftsmanship. It would serve as an inspiration to car enthusiasts and designers, showcasing the potential of custom automotive design. The restoration process would require meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the car is faithfully recreated to honor its original design.
While sat on diplay at the Automotoretrò 2016, the Fasana Topolino Spider in a dilapidated state, with rust covering most of its body.(Picture from: OcalaAutoRepair)
As we look forward to the potential restoration of the Fasana Topolino Spider, we invite anyone with pictures or information about this unique car to share them. By bringing together the collective knowledge and resources of the automotive community, we can ensure that this remarkable vehicle is preserved and celebrated for years to come. The Fasana Topolino Spider is not just a car; it is a symbol of creativity, innovation, and the enduring legacy of custom automotive artistry. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | OCALAAUTOREPAIR | BRICE HOUSTON | SILODROME'S INSTAGRAM | WORLD CARS FROM 1930S TO 1980S | AMAZINGCLASSICCARS | AMERICASBESTPICS | PINTEREST | AUTOPUZZLES ]
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ONE-OFF - Imagine a time when two great automotive cultures collided, producing a car that beautifully combined the best of both worlds. This was the Citroën SM (Serie Maserati) Coupé Frua, a stunning blend of French innovation and Italian flair. The creation of this car was not just a merging of technologies but a meeting of minds, reflecting the era’s adventurous spirit in car design.
The Citroën SM (Serie Maserati) Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua is a stunning blend of French innovation and Italian flair. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The story of the Citroën SM Coupé Frua began when Citroën acquired Maserati in 1968. This acquisition was a bold move, marking the start of a new chapter for both companies. Maserati, known for its powerful and stylish cars, brought its engineering prowess to the table. Citroën, famous for its advanced technology and unique designs, offered a fresh perspective. This partnership led to the creation of cars that were not only beautiful but also groundbreaking.
The Citroën SM (Serie Maserati) Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua representing not just a merging of technologies but a meeting of minds, reflecting the era’s adventurous spirit in car design. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
One of the first fruits of this collaboration was the Maserati Bora. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Bora was a sleek, mid-engine sports car with a 4,700cc V8 engine. Its clean lines and powerful performance set the stage for future Maserati models. Following the Bora, the Maserati Khamsin was introduced, featuring a conventional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and a robust V8 engine.
The Citroën SM (Serie Maserati) Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua stood alongside its Italian sibling, the Maserati Khamsin. (Picture from: Citroenvie)
The Khamsin's design shared several elements with the Frua-styled concept car, highlighting the synergy between Citroën and Maserati. Furthermore, the Maserati Khamsin was a rear-wheel-drive car, the Citroën SM was a front-wheel-drive vehicle powered by a distinctive 90-degree Maserati V6 engine. This engineering choice showcased the innovative approach of both brands.
The Citroën SM Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua was a unique prototype that incorporated Citroën SM mechanical components and exhibited a design that foreshadowed future Maserati models. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Citroën SM Coupé Frua was a product of this era of experimentation and collaboration. Built by the Italian coachbuilder Carrozzeria Frua in 1971, the SM Coupé Frua made its debut at the Geneva Salon in March 1972. It was a unique prototype that incorporated Citroën SM mechanical components and exhibited a design that foreshadowed future Maserati models.
The interior of the Citroën SM Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua is covered in black genuine leather and features a three-spoke steering wheel and a modern layout dashboard. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Despite the allure of the front-wheel-drive configuration, Maserati chose to go with a mid-engine layout for its Merak model, using the Citroën-inspired V6 engine. This decision did not diminish the impact of the Citroën SM Coupé Frua, which remains a testament to Citroën’s forward-thinking design philosophy. The partnership between Citroën and Maserati during this period resulted in remarkable innovations and iconic vehicles that have left a lasting legacy in the automotive world.
The Citroën SM Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua propelled by a distinctive front-mounted 90-degree Maserati V6 engine. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
After Citroën was acquired by Peugeot in 1975, the production of the SM came to an end. The Frua prototype, however, continued to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts. Following its initial display in Geneva, the car was showcased again in 1973 and at the International Motor Show in Barcelona, Spain. It eventually found its way into private ownership in Spain before being acquired by its current owner in Italy in the late 1980s.
The Citroën SM Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua is adorned with unique flying buttresses, which clearly differentiate it from the Maserati Khamsin. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The car underwent partial restoration between 2011 and 2012, preserving its unique character and historical significance. With 41,946 kilometers (about 26,000 miles) on the odometer, the Frua prototype remains in generally good condition. It comes with Spanish registration papers, offering a rare opportunity for collectors to own a piece of automotive history. This one-of-a-kind car, crafted by the talented Pietro Frua, is not just a vehicle but an entry ticket to some of the most prestigious concours d'élégance events.
The Citroën SM Coupé Frua is a remarkable example of what can be achieved when two different automotive philosophies come together. It embodies the spirit of innovation and collaboration that defined its era, standing as a symbol of the creative synergy between French and Italian automotive cultures. This car is more than just a fascinating 'might have been'; it is a celebration of the pioneering spirit that continues to inspire car designers today. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | WIKIPEDIA | CITROENVIE | CARSBONHAM | CONCEPTCARZ | OLDCONCEPTCARS ]
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New SUPERCAR - Every once in a while, the world of supercars welcomes a new star that pushes the boundaries of engineering and design. The latest creation from Pagani Automobili, the Pagani Huayra Epitome, promises to do just that.
The Pagani Huayra Epitome, a unique one-off supercar commissioned by a wealthy client, is the first Huayra with a manual transmission. (Picture from: CarThrottle)
Despite the recent launch of the Pagani Utopia, seen as the successor to the Huayra, the company’s dedication to innovation remains strong. Pagani has a history of producing exceptional versions of their models, as seen with theCodalunga, theImola, and theHuayra R. The Epitome continues this tradition, debuting at this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The Pagani Huayra Epitome undergoes a subtle yet impactful makeover with updated front and rear bumper treatments, LED lighting accents, and a larger grille, enhancing both airflow and aesthetics.(Picture from: PistonHeads)
A significant milestone for Pagani, the Huayra Epitome is the first Huayra to feature a manual transmission. This model was commissioned by a wealthy client who desired a manual shifter. The seven-speed gearbox, crafted by Xtrac, includes the latest triple-disc clutch for enhanced torque transmission. The gearbox is housed within a beautifully crafted aluminum open gate, reminiscent of the Utopia.
The Pagani Huayra Epitome features a prominent integrated rear wing on the trunk lid, draped in a dark blue carbon fiber weave with luxurious gold accents and wheels. (Picture from: CarThrottle)
Under the hood, the Huayra Epitome boasts a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V-12 engine from Mercedes-AMG. This powerhouse delivers 852 horsepower and 811 pound-feet of torque, reaching up to 6,700 rpm. The Epitome matches the Utopia in power, achieving a top speed of 217.5 miles per hour. A six-way titanium exhaust system amplifies the engine’s roar, complemented by a blown diffuser that provides extra downforce.
The Pagani Huayra Epitome includes a "Super Soft" mode for leisurely drives on scenic routes like Monaco or Lake Como, automatically deactivating above 93 mph to maintain optimal performance.(Picture from: PistonHeads)
Pagani engineers have refined the suspension system for the Epitome, reducing pitch and roll compared to the standard Huayra. The car also features a "Super Soft" mode, offering a cushioned ride for leisurely drives, perfect for scenic routes around Monaco or Lake Como. Notably, this mode automatically deactivates at speeds exceeding 93 mph, ensuring performance isn’t compromised.
The Pagani Huayra Epitome's interior is adorned with leather, carbon fiber, and aluminum, and also features softer details like a wooden shift knob with an exposed shifter mechanism for the manual gearbox.(Picture from: CarThrottle)
The exterior design of the Huayra Epitome receives a subtle yet impactful makeover. New front and rear bumper treatments with LED lighting accents and a larger grille enhance airflow and aesthetics. A prominent integrated rear wing adorns the trunk lid, and the entire body is wrapped in a dark blue carbon fiber weave. Gold accents and wheels add a touch of luxury to the overall look.
The Pagani Huayra Epitome boasts a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V-12 engine with a unique six-way titanium exhaust system that amplifies the engine’s roar, complemented by a blown diffuser for extra downforce. (Picture from: CarThrottle)
Crafted by Pagani’s Grandi Complicazioni special vehicles division, the Huayra Epitome embodies the pinnacle of automotive artistry and engineering. The project required nine months of meticulous planning and another ten months of precise execution. Unfortunately, for enthusiasts eager to own this masterpiece, the Huayra Epitome is a one-of-a-kind creation, ensuring its status as a rare and coveted gem in the automotive world.
In a world where automotive innovation is constant, the Pagani Huayra Epitome stands out as a celebration of engineering brilliance and exquisite design. This extraordinary vehicle not only continues the legacy of the Huayra but also sets a new benchmark for future supercars. Whether cruising through picturesque landscapes or making a statement on the track, the Huayra Epitome is a true testament to Pagani's relentless pursuit of perfection.*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PAGANI AUTOMOBILI | GOODWOOD | MOTOR1 | CARSCOOPS | PISTONHEADS | CARTHROTTLE ]
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The Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato series stands out significantly from the standard Gallardo. This series was followed the Lamborghini Zagato Raptor model launched in 1996, and marked a significant milestone for Zagato, showcasing ambitious designs with innovative elements. 
The journey of the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato series is a testament to the innovative spirit of Lamborghini and Zagato. Each model in this series represents a blend of dynamic design and powerful performance, capturing the essence of what makes Lamborghini supercars truly remarkable. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAGATO.IT | ZAGATO IN FACEBOOK | YAKYMOUR | CARANDDRIVER | SPORTSCARDIGEST | AUTOCAR.JP | AUTOCAR.CO.UK | EXCLUSIVECARREGESTRY | CARBUZZ ]
