Rareforce Elegance - In the world of high-performance cars, every once in a while, a creation comes along that doesn’t just push boundaries—it reinvents them. That’s exactly what BMW has done with its latest masterpiece, the BMW Concept Speedtop. Debuted at the iconic 2025 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy, this stunning machine isn't just a showpiece; it’s a rare blend of artistry, power, and exclusivity, wrapped in the silhouette of a car that dares to be different.
The BMW Concept Speedtop builds on the legacy of last year’s Concept Skytop by taking the robust 8-Series platform and transforming it into a refreshingly unexpected three-door Grand Tourer with a fastback twist, inspired by the elegant and practical shooting brake format. (Picture from: MotoMobiNews)
The BMW Concept Speedtop didn’t just appear out of thin air. It builds on the legacy of last year’s Concept Skytop, a convertible that turned heads with its bold styling. This time, the designers under the leadership of Adrian van Hooydonk—BMW’s Head of Design—chose a different path. Inspired by the elegant and practical shooting brake format, the Speedtop takes the robust platform of the 8-Series and transforms it into something refreshingly unexpected: a three-door Grand Tourer with a fastback twist.
The BMW Concept Speedtop debuted at the iconic 2025 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy, and this stunning machine isn't just a showpiece — it’s a rare blend of artistry and power. (Picture from: MotoMobiNews)
This isn’t simply a modified 8-Series. The Speedtop carries a completely reshaped body that oozes confidence, featuring a short rear overhang and a hatchback-like profile, all while maintaining the aggressive stance of a sports tourer. What truly sets it apart visually, though, is its exquisite color palette. The body wears a vibrant shade of Floating Sunstone Maroon, contrasted by a seamless gradient roof that fades into Floating Sundown Silver—an artistic transition that demonstrates BMW’s exploration into new paint techniques. Subtle design cues like the hidden door handles and custom two-tone 14-spoke wheels amplify its sleek yet muscular character.
The BMW Concept Speedtop features a shark-nose front end combined with a raked roofline and ducktail rear, creating a low-slung GT. (Picture from: MotoMobiNews)
Step inside, and the BMW Concept Speedtop continues to impress. The cabin is a rich, handcrafted lounge, designed for the ultimate driving experience—alone or with a single lucky passenger. Gone are the rear seats; in their place is an extended luggage area wrapped in fine leather, turning utility into luxury. The two-tone leather interior, blending Sundown Maroon with Moonstone White, is stitched and fitted with the precision of bespoke tailoring. And just behind the seats lie leather compartments for personal items, secured with elegant straps and completed by an exclusive luggage set from Italian leather artisan Schedoni—because no detail is too small when exclusivity is the goal.
The BMW Concept Speedtop continues to impress inside with a rich, handcrafted cabin designed for the ultimate driving experience—either solo or with a single lucky passenger. (Picture from: MotoMobiNews)
But beauty and craftsmanship aren’t all this machine has to offer. Underneath that sculpted hood lies a powertrain that roars with purpose. BMW hasn’t revealed the exact engine specs, but hints point to the same fire-breathing 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 used in the M8 Competition. That would mean an exhilarating 617 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque, delivered through an 8-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. To harness that performance, the Speedtop is equipped with M-level components like adaptive suspension and carbon ceramic brakes, ensuring that this car performs as precisely as it looks.
The BMW Concept Speedtop features a heavily angled fastback tailgate at the rear that prioritizes design over boot space. (Picture from: Autocar)
What truly defines the Speedtop, however, is its rarity. BMW is crafting only 70 units of this concept-turned-reality, all meticulously built by hand at the BMW Manufactory in Dingolfing, Germany. It's an ultra-limited production run, made even more exclusive by the fact that it’s likely only available in Europe. Despite whispers of a price north of half a million dollars, interested buyers—mostly existing BMW enthusiasts and seasoned collectors—are eagerly lining up. Some units may already be spoken for, but BMW is still entertaining new inquiries, as long as you’re quick enough.
The BMW Concept Speedtop is more than a car—it’s a statement. A fusion of passion, design innovation, and engineering excellence, it stands as a bold reminder that when creativity meets craftsmanship, the result can be nothing short of breathtaking. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOCAR | OBSCURESUPERCAR ON X ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
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]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
Unfiltered Passion - The world of sports cars has seen countless icons come and go, but few have captured the raw spirit of driving quite like the TVR Chimaera. A car that effortlessly blended power, style, and a touch of eccentricity, it remains the most successful TVR ever built. Even though production ended in 2003, the Chimaera's legacy continues to thrive among enthusiasts who appreciate a machine that prioritizes pure, unfiltered driving pleasure. Its story, however, is not just about performance numbers or sleek lines—it’s also a tale of ambition, reinvention, and the vision of one man who reshaped an entire brand.
The TVR Chimaera effortlessly blends power, style, and a touch of eccentricity, making it the most successful TVR ever built. (Picture from: OldMotors on Facebook)
The origins of the Chimaera trace back to the 1980s when Peter Wheeler, a British chemical engineer who had found success in the oil industry, took over TVR. At the time, the company was struggling financially and was known for its bold but often inconsistent vehicles. Wheeler, despite having no prior experience in the automotive industry, set out to change that. Under his leadership, TVR transitioned from producing quirky, niche sports cars to crafting machines that could genuinely rival the likes of Porsche and Ferrari. His first major success came in 1990 with the introduction of the Griffith—a striking, high-performance roadster that captured the imagination of driving enthusiasts.
The TVR Chimaera debuted at the 1992 Earl’s Court Motorshow, featuring a slightly larger frame built on an adapted Griffith chassis.. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
However, while the Griffith was fast and aggressive, it wasn’t necessarily refined. Wheeler recognized a gap in the market for a TVR that retained the thrill of the Griffith but offered more comfort and usability. The result was the Chimaera, which debuted at the 1992 Earl’s Court Motorshow. Built on an adapted Griffith chassis, it featured a slightly larger frame, a more forgiving suspension setup, and an interior that felt more premium without losing TVR’s signature character. While still powered by the same Rover V8 engine, the Chimaeraoffered various power outputs, ranging from 240 horsepower in its early 4.0-liter models to a ferocious 340-horsepower 5.0-liter version by the late 1990s.
The TVR Chimaera's interior offered a more premium feel while preserving TVR’s signature character and driver-focused design. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
What set the Chimaera apart wasn’t just its performance but its unique charm. It was a car that looked sophisticated yet had an undeniable sense of fun—an image further solidified by the now-famous story of Wheeler’s dog, Ned. According to legend, his German Pointer accidentally bit into a design model, creating an indentation that was later integrated into the car’s final styling. Whether entirely true or not, the tale became part of the Chimaera’s mystique and reflected the kind of unconventional thinking that defined TVR.
The TVR Chimaera powered by the Rover V8 engine, the Chimaera offered various power outputs, ranging from 240 horsepower in its early 4.0-liter models to a ferocious 340-horsepower 5.0-liter version by the late 1990s. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Despite its refined approach compared to the Griffith, the Chimaera was by no means a tame machine. It remained a true driver’s car—lacking modern electronic aids like traction control or ABS, it demanded skill and respect on the road. Yet, for those who appreciated its raw nature, it provided an exhilarating experience unmatched by more polished rivals. It was also practical by TVR standards, offering enough space for a weekend getaway while still delivering thrilling performance.
The TVR Chimaera remained a true driver’s car—lacking modern electronic aids like traction control or ABS, it demanded skill and respect on the road. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Chimaera’s success was not just limited to its driving experience. It became a recognizable name thanks to its inclusion in video games like Gran Turismo, further cementing its status as a dream car for many. However, TVR’s reluctance to adapt to evolving regulations meant that the Chimaera was never sold in the U.S., limiting its reach in global markets. Optional features like power steering, air conditioning, and heated seats added some creature comforts, but ultimately, the Chimaera remained a purist’s sports car at heart. | oU5vlaFjar8 |
By the time production ended in 2003, nearly 6,000 units had been built—an impressive number for a boutique manufacturer like TVR. Although later models like the wild Tuscan and Sagaris took the brand in even more extreme directions, the Chimaera retained a special place in the hearts of those who valued a balance of power, beauty, and usability. Today, it stands as a testament to Peter Wheeler’s vision and TVR’s golden era, a reminder of a time when driving was as much about emotion as it was about speed. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TVR | WIKIPEDIA | OLD MOTORS ON FACEBOOK ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Engineered Defiance - Every now and then, the automotive world is shaken not by how fast a car goes, but by how boldly it breaks the rules. In the early 1960s, when most manufacturers clung tightly to tradition, Ferrari dared to turn its back on one of its oldest principles. This moment gave birth to something radically different — the Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi — a machine that wasn’t just a race car, but a statement on innovation.
The 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi, chassis #0806, was featured in the RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction lineup in 2019.(Picture from: Motor1)
Built between 1961 and 1963, the Ferrari 196 SP was part of a very exclusive family, with fewer than ten units ever created. What set it apart wasn't just its rarity, but its revolutionary engineering. At a time when Enzo Ferrari firmly believed that the engine belonged at the front — famously insisting that the “horse should come before the cart” — the 196 SPwent against the grain with a mid-mounted engine. This wasn’t a compromise. It was a calculated move towards better balance, sharper handling, and superior weight distribution.
Left-side view of the 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi, chassis #0806. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Under the sleek body sculpted by Fantuzzi, a renowned coachbuilder with a flair for simplicity and function, sat a Vittorio Jano-designed V6 engine. Jano’s approach was a departure from Ferrari’s signature 12-cylinder Colombo engines. His V6 was smaller, lighter, and more fuel-efficient — and yet still capable of breathtaking performance. Mounted longitudinally, the engine worked in harmony with a five-speed manual transmission to drive the rear wheels with precision.
The 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi with chassis #0806 features a cabin equipped with two racing bucket seats, a three-spoke sporty steering wheel, and a simple, driver-focused dashboard.(Picture from: TopSpeed)
Supporting all this was a tubular steel chassis and double wishbone suspension, which gave the 196 SP not only agility but also confidence through tight corners and demanding courses. Its exterior design, while understated by racing car standards, was elegant and purposeful — a perfect blend of form and function.
The 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi is powered by a Vittorio Jano-designed V6 engine that is smaller, lighter, and more fuel-efficient.(Picture from: TopSpeed)
The Ferrari 196 SP wasn’t just different in theory. It proved its worth on the track. It first roared to life as chassis #0790 and immediately made an impression at the 1961 Targa Florio. Just a year later, it secured victory at the Nürburgring 1000 km — a track known for punishing lesser machines. Over time, Ferrari adapted the platform, converting the early 246 SP into a 196 SP, demonstrating just how flexible and forward-thinking the engineering truly was.
Rear left-side view of the 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi, chassis #0806. (Picture from: Conceptarz)
As with many Ferrari race cars from that era, specifications evolved over its short production run. Engines were tweaked, and components updated, often retrofitted into existing chassis. Between 1962 and 1963, just five chassis were produced, making each one a rare artifact of Ferrari’s boldest experiments.
Rear view of the 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi, chassis #0806.(Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Though only a handful of these cars were ever made, their impact is far greater than their numbers suggest. The Ferrari 196 SP laid down the blueprint for the brand’s future successes, including its mid-engined domination at Le Mans with the 250 P. Even decades later, examples like the original #0790 still make appearances at prestigious events like the Cavallino Classic, reminding us that this wasn’t just a car — it was a turning point.
Today, looking back, it’s clear that the Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzziwasn’t built to follow the rules. It was built to redefine them. And in doing so, it carved out a legacy that still echoes through every mid-engined Ferrari that followed. *** [EKA [17112019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | CONCEPTCARZ | BUSINESS INSIDER | MOTOR1 | THE DRIVE | TOPSPEED | CAVALLINO ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
Bold Artistry- In the ever-evolving world of automotive design, concept cars have always played a crucial role in shaping the future. These unique creations often serve as a bold canvas for innovation, daring aesthetics, and technological exploration. Some of the most captivating concept cars were born from partnerships between automakers and legendary design houses, where boundaries were pushed, and artistry met engineering. Among these unforgettable creations, one name continues to resonate through time: the Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale designed by Leonardo Fioravanti and debuted at the 1968 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Debuting in 1968 at the prestigious Geneva Motor Show, the Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale wasn’t just another showpiece—it was a daring vision of what the future could look like. The car stood out immediately with its radical styling and futuristic lines, representing a marriage of performance-driven purpose and avant-garde design philosophy. It was the result of a fruitful collaboration between Ferrari and the Italian design house Pininfarina, a partnership that has birthed some of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale was constructed on a P4 chassis and used a mid-mounted 3-liter V12 engine. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
At the heart of this concept was a young and talented designer from Pininfarina, Leonardo Fioravanti, who was only 29 years old at the time. Despite his youth, Fioravanti’s work on the P5 displayed a level of sophistication and foresight that would influence Ferrari’s design language for decades. The sleek body, flowing lines, and aerodynamic emphasis reflected his vision of a car that was not only fast but also beautiful in motion and at rest.
The 1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale's interior was dominated in red and black colors. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Built on the chassis of the Ferrari 330 P4, a race car known for its prowess on the track, the 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale brought performance engineering into the realm of conceptual elegance. Under the rear glass canopy sat a mid-mounted 3-liter V12 engine—an engineering choice that underscored Ferrari's racing heritage. What truly made the car stand out, though, was its pair of gull-wing doors, an unconventional feature for a Ferrari. Even today, such doors remain rare in the marque’s lineup, giving the P5 an added touch of exclusivity and theatrical flair.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale also has a glass-covered its mid-engine and styling that was low and curvy. (Picture from: en.WheelsAge.org)
One of the most striking aspects of the car was its transparent engine cover. In 1968, the idea of displaying an engine through a pane of glass was virtually unheard of, yet this daring feature would eventually become common in modern Ferraris. The low-slung, curvaceous silhouette further emphasized the car’s futuristic intentions, making it both an artistic sculpture and a mechanical marvel.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta featured the gull-wing doors which are something unusual for a Ferrari until now. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale was never meant for production, but its influence reached beyond its one-off status. Just a year later, Pininfarina applied similar design cues to another striking prototype—the Alfa Romeo 33/2 Coupé Speciale—which made its debut in Paris. This continuity in design language was a testament to the creative synergy between Pininfarina and the brands it collaborated with, particularly Ferrari.
Over five decades have passed since the P5’s unveiling, yet it remains a powerful reminder of the creative possibilities that emerge when vision and craftsmanship align. The car may never have roared down a public road, but it sped into the imaginations of enthusiasts and designers around the world. Its legacy lives on, not only through its design influences but also in the enduring collaboration between Ferrari and Pininfarina—a partnership built on passion, precision, and the pursuit of beauty. *** [EKA [27042020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TOP SPEED | CONCEPTCARZ | CLASSIC CARS FANDOM | SUPERCARNOSTALGIA | ALLCARINDEX | CARSTYLING.RU ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Visionary Craftsmanship - The automotive world is a space where creativity, ambition, and engineering meet to create machines that are more than just vehicles—they are works of art and innovation. Among the countless stories of iconic automobiles and their makers, one brand that offers a fascinating blend of artistry and aspiration is Hispano Alemán. This Spanish manufacturer left its mark not through mass production but through unique and ambitious projects like the Hispano Alemán Scirocco. While its story is less well-known, it carries the charm of a visionary era in car design.
This is the sole known image of the Hispano Alemán Scirocco during its debut at the 1970 Barcelona Motor Show. (Picture from: Motodinoza)
The Hispano Alemán company was the brainchild of Werner Bernhard Heiderich, better known as Ben Heiderich, an individual whose life journey was as dynamic as the cars he sought to create. A former U.S. Air Force serviceman, Heiderich made Spain his home and ventured into the automotive industry in the late 1960s. Starting with a business named "International Motors," he catered to an eclectic clientele that included American military personnel, resident tourists, and diplomats. This venture laid the groundwork for his foray into crafting his own car brand, inspired by his growing understanding of what car enthusiasts sought in both performance and design.
The story of the Hispano Alemán Scirocco began with German coachbuilder Dieter Kohlmus, who designed its prototype (later known as the Kohlmus Scirocco) using the innovative NSU TT 1200 and its 1177cc engine. (Picture from: Motodinoza)
The Hispano Alemán Scirocco was one of Heiderich's most intriguing creations, standing alongside other notable models such as the Mallorca Buggy, his early success with 500 units produced, the Vizcaya introduced in 1971, and the Castilla unveiled in 1972.. First showcased in 1970 at the Barcelona Motor Show, the Scirocco was a compact, sporty vehicle that turned heads with its bold gull-wing doors and sleek fiberglass body.
The Kohlmus Scirocco prototype sat on display at the Museum Autovision in Altlußheim, a small town in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Interestingly, the story of this car did not begin with Heiderich but with a German coachbuilder, Dieter Kohlmus. As the proprietor of Munich-based Kohlmus Kunststofftechnik KG, Kohlmus developed the prototype using the NSU TT 1200, a highly innovative compact car. The NSU TT's 1177cc 4-cylinder engine and sporty foundation provided an ideal platform for Kohlmus's ambitious vision.
The Kohlmus Scirocco prototype (pictured here as the rare 1972 model) was initially developed by Dieter Kohlmus, owner of the Munich-based company Kohlmus Kunststofftechnik KG, in collaboration with Rudolf Thurner.(Picture from: Story Cars on Instagram)
The Kohlmus Scirocco, as it was initially known, was a striking example of 1970s design ambition. The lightweight fiberglass body combined with the NSU engine delivered a balance of style and performance. However, when the collaboration between Kohlmus and his partner Rudolf Thurner dissolved, the car’s path took an unexpected turn. Kohlmus revised the car’s rear, creating his version, while Thurner marketed his own variant, the Thurner RS. Despite these efforts, production for the Kohlmus Scirocco ceased in 1973 after just a handful of units.
The Kohlmus Scirocco was the only model produced, designed as a sleek coupé featuring distinctive gull-wing doors that drew comparisons to the iconic Porsche 904. (Picture from: Story Cars on Instagram)
At some point, Werner Heiderich acquired the rights to the Scirocco project, seeing in it the potential to create something extraordinary under the Hispano Alemán banner. After presenting the car in Spain, he dismantled and modified it, tweaking its design to align with his vision. However, the project never moved beyond this stage. The reasons remain unclear, but this promising collaboration did not result in the mass production Heiderich may have envisioned. The Scirocco's story as a Hispano Alemán model ended as an ambitious prototype that highlighted the challenges of independent car manufacturing in an industry dominated by established giants.
The body of the Kohlmus Scirocco was crafted from glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), a lightweight yet durable material ideal for enhancing performance and aerodynamics. (Picture from: Story Cars on Instagram)
Though the Scirocco did not achieve commercial success, its legacy endures as a testament to the determination and creativity of smaller manufacturers during a transformative period in automotive history. Heiderich's broader contributions to the automotive world, including his representation of brands like Porsche, Lamborghini, and BMW in Spain, further reflect his passion for high-performance vehicles and his deep understanding of car enthusiasts’ desires.
The Kohlmus Scirocco prototype was powered by a 1177cc 4-cylinder engine, paired with a sporty design that perfectly embodied the automaker's ambitious vision. (Picture from: Story Cars on Instagram)
The Hispano Alemán Scirocco might not have reached the production lines, but its story is a reminder of the bold ideas that drive the automotive industry forward. Visionaries like Heiderich and Kohlmus dared to dream beyond the limitations of their time, leaving behind creations that continue to inspire admiration and curiosity. While the roads may never have seen fleets of Hispano Alemán Sciroccos, the singular prototype represents a unique intersection of innovation, collaboration, and ambition—qualities that define the spirit of the automobile. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | STORY CARS ON INSTAGRAM | AUTOPASSION18 | MOTODINOZA | BLOG.TARANEA.ES | DRIVE2.RU | COTXESCL-CP513 | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTS CAR ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
Artisanal Velocity - When it comes to rare and beautifully crafted automobiles, some names instantly spark recognition—Ferrari, of course, being one of them. But what happens when a legendary automaker joins forces with one of Italy’s most historic design houses? You get something truly extraordinary. In an automotive world overflowing with badges and horsepower wars, a unique creation like the Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato reminds us that craftsmanship and exclusivity still reign supreme. This isn’t just another limited-edition supercar—it’s a true coach-built masterpiece that blends performance with artisanal flair in a way few modern cars can match.
2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. (Picture from: TominiClassics)
At first glance, the name itself stirs curiosity. Nibbio, the Italian word for eagle, seems like an odd companion to Ferrari’s prancing horse. It’s not hard to imagine someone pausing in confusion upon seeing this sleek machine glide by, wondering aloud, “Is that a Ferrari or... something else?” And that’s exactly the point. This is a car designed to disrupt assumptions. It isn’t just a Ferrari—it’s a Ferrari transformed through the eyes of Zagato, a company whose legacy stretches back over a century.
2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. ((Picture from: TominiClassics)
Founded by Ugo Zagato in 1919 in Milan, Zagato started as a coach-building workshop with an eye for aerodynamic innovation and racing pedigree. The brand quickly became synonymous with lightweight construction, flowing lines, and race-ready elegance. Over the decades, Zagato partnered with legendary marques like Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, and Lancia—each collaboration producing cars that have become coveted collectors’ pieces. One of Zagato’s most recognizable features is the double-bubble roof, an aesthetic and functional signature that has graced countless iconic designs.
Fast forward to 2007, and the magic of Zagato was called upon once more—this time by a private client with impeccable taste and a desire for something truly bespoke. The challenge: take Ferrari’s 599 GTB Fiorano, already a marvel of engineering, and reimagine it into an ultra-exclusive, hand-built work of art. The result was the Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato—a name that now holds a mythical status among enthusiasts and collectors alike.
2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. (Picture from: TominiClassics)
Mechanically, this rare gem retains Ferrari’s roaring 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, pumping out a muscular 612 horsepower and 448 lb-ft of torque. With this powerhouse under the hood, the GTZ maintains the exhilarating performance DNA of its base model. But what sets it apart is everything on the outside—and inside—that makes it unmistakably Zagato.
Only nine units were ever produced, making the 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato one of the most limited Ferrari models in existence. Of those nine, eight were equipped with Ferrari’s F1-style paddle-shift gearbox. The single most visually distinct example wears a stunning two-tone livery known as Blue Cavallino, featuring a deep, moody blue body contrasted by a crisp white roof. This color combination, along with the reshaped body panels and signature Zagato design cues, gives the car a presence that’s impossible to ignore.
2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. (Picture from: TominiClassics)
Step inside, and you’re greeted with an interior that feels both familiar and uniquely personalized. While the core cabin architecture is Ferrari’s own, Zagato reupholstered the space in luxurious blue leather, elevating the ambiance to something closer to a grand tourer than a raw sports machine. Every surface feels intentional, every stitch a nod to bespoke craftsmanship.
Even by today’s standards, nearly two decades after its debut, the Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato still turns heads—not just for its rarity, but because it represents a meeting of minds between two of Italy’s most revered automotive houses. It’s not just about speed or styling; it’s about legacy, design philosophy, and the quiet confidence of owning something that few others ever will.
In 2019, one of these exquisite machines reportedly sold for a staggering $1.5 million. And while its price may rise and fall in collector markets, its significance as a one-off vision of Italian excellence is timeless. The Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato isn’t merely a car—it’s a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the enduring allure of true automotive artistry. *** [EKA [04122020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DRIVETRIBE | TOMINICLASSICS | ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
The BMW Concept Speedtop is more than a car—it’s a statement. A fusion of passion, design innovation, and engineering excellence, it stands as a bold reminder that when creativity meets craftsmanship, the result can be nothing short of breathtaking. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOCAR | OBSCURESUPERCAR ON X ]
