Ferrari HC25 One-Off Supercar: A Bespoke V8 Masterpiece

Precision Reverie - In an era when supercars are rapidly shifting toward electrification and digital precision, there is something deeply fascinating about machines that still celebrate raw mechanical emotion. That is exactly why the Ferrari HC25 immediately captured attention when it appeared at the Circuit of the Americas in Texas. More than just another exotic model, the HC25 represents a rare meeting point between Ferrari’s celebrated V8 heritage and the brand’s evolving modern identity. Built as a one-off creation for a single client, the car reflects how craftsmanship and personal vision can still shape automotive culture in a world increasingly dominated by mass-produced performance.

The Ferrari HC25 one-off supercar was developed through Ferrari’s exclusive Special Projects program, the same division responsible for some of the company’s rarest custom-built creations. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The HC25 was developed through Ferrari’s exclusive Special Projects program, the same division responsible for some of the company’s rarest custom-built creations. Under the direction of Ferrari Design Studio led by Flavio Manzoni, the project reportedly took around two years from concept sketches to final execution. Unlike limited-production models that are eventually repeated for wealthy collectors, the HC25 exists as a singular creation with no duplicates planned. Ferrari based the car on the F8 Spider. itself already considered historically important as the final mid-engined Ferrari powered by a non-hybrid twin-turbocharged V8 engine. That foundation alone gives the HC25 unusual significance in Ferrari’s timeline, especially now that hybrid technology is becoming central to the company’s future.

The Ferrari HC25 one-off supercar finished in matte Moonlight Grey paint and paired with diamond-cut five-spoke wheels. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

Rather than merely modifying the F8 Spider, Ferrari completely reshaped the car’s identity. The HC25 was designed to act as a visual bridge between older V8 Ferraris and newer models such as the F80 and the 12Cilindri. One of the clearest examples is the bold black horizontal band stretching across the bonnet, a design cue that instantly links the car with Ferrari’s current styling language. The body itself balances muscular proportions with cleaner, more futuristic detailing. Sharp creases along the sides, lowered visual shoulder lines, and carefully sculpted surfaces give the roadster a more aggressive and planted appearance without losing Ferrari’s trademark sensual curves.

The Ferrari HC25 one-off supercar's cabin contrasting elegantly against grey technical fabric upholstery and giving interior a cohesive visual identity. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

From the side profile, the HC25 becomes even more dramatic. A gloss black three-dimensional central band visually divides the car into front and rear sections while also housing the air intakes. The feature flows smoothly toward the sharply angled rear screen, which was redesigned to place greater emphasis on the exposed engine beneath it. Ferrari also integrated a long aluminium blade through the center of the black section, subtly incorporating the door handles into the structure itself. The effect is both futuristic and functional, giving the car a stronger cab-forward stance while making it appear lower and more aerodynamic even at a standstill.

The Ferrari HC25 one-off supercar stands almost like a farewell letter to Ferrari’s pure non-hybrid V8 era while simultaneously embracing the design direction of the company’s future. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The details continue through every corner of the vehicle. The HC25 uses completely unique headlamps with slim lenses and lighting modules never previously seen on a Ferrari. Vertical daytime running lights create a more technical and modern face, while the rear adopts equally narrow taillights integrated into a full-width graphic stretching across the back. Mesh cooling openings and a dramatic diffuser surrounding twin trapezoidal exhaust outlets reinforce the car’s purposeful character. Finished in matte Moonlight Grey paint and paired with diamond-cut five-spoke wheels, the exterior avoids excessive flamboyance and instead leans toward understated sophistication. Inside, Ferrari carried yellow accents from the brake calipers and shields into the cabin, contrasting elegantly against grey technical fabric upholstery and giving the interior a cohesive visual identity. | 5CGA3S-S3T8 | IFoA5u_FwmE |

What makes the HC25 especially compelling today is not simply its exclusivity, but what it represents culturally. The automotive industry is entering a transition period where analog sensations are gradually disappearing behind software-driven performance systems. The HC25 stands almost like a farewell letter to Ferrari’s pure non-hybrid V8 era while simultaneously embracing the design direction of the company’s future. It is recognizably Ferrari from every angle, yet unmistakably individual in execution. In Texas, surrounded by modern supercars and racing spectacle, the HC25 did not need outrageous theatrics to stand apart. Its presence alone told a story about craftsmanship, heritage, and the enduring appeal of machines built with emotion at their core. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | CAR AND DRIVER ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.

Meet the Lamborghini 132 GT1: The Diablo You've Never Heard Of

Rare ONES - If you are a supercar enthusiast who grew up in the 1990s, you probably know almost all the Lamborghini Diablo variants. There are SV, VT, SE30 Jota, even GTR. But have you ever heard of the Lamborghini 132 GT1?

1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: Motor.es)

At the end of the 1990s, high-end racing was the trend. This surge in interest was partly due to the sheer excitement it brought, and partly because it was theoretically possible to race at the top level with a legally street-car-based racing car. Many famous automotive brands tried their hand at it. Even Ferrari, usually focused on Formula One alone, made an attempt with their Ferrari F50 GT. Some succeeded spectacularly, like McLaren with their F1 GTR, which claimed overall victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Right side view of 1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: Motor.es)

Seeing all this excitement, Lamborghini decided to join the fray. This was unusual because Lamborghini didn’t have a strong racing pedigree at the time. Despite this, Lamborghini embarked on an ambitious sports car racing program to compete with the Porsche 911 GT1, McLaren F1 GTR, and others.

Left side view of 1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: Pinterest)

Lamborghini collaborated with a French company, Signes Advanced Technology (SAT), to design and build a racing car. Initially, everything went well. The collaboration succeeded in building a single road-going example to complement the racing car, and they managed to get homologation approval from the FIA, making it all legal.

Unfortunately, this project was suddenly canceled. However, by that time, two units of the Diablo racing cars had already been built. The reasons for the program's end are unclear, though we can make a few reasonable guesses. The cars were built in early 1998, but by September of that year, Audi had bought Lamborghini, and the program was brought to a halt.

Interior view of 1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: LoveCars)

In the end, the race version of the Lamborghini 132 GT1 ended up competing a little bit in Japan. The road car, such as it is, actually still exists, and one look is enough to understand that it is a true classic Lamborghini beast.

Engine view of 1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: LoveCars)

The car's exterior was typical of the 1990s design, with strong lines wrapped in carbon fiber, dramatically changing the look of Lamborghini's flagship car of the time. The interior was also very different from the standard version, equipped with a custom pedal box, open shifters, and all the buttons, compact switches, bucket seats, and roll cages you would expect from the best race car ever.

Rear three-quarter of 1998 Lamborghini 132 'Diablo' GT1. (Picture from: Motor.es)

The car's powertrain was a 6.0-liter V12 naturally aspirated engine capable of producing up to 655 horsepower. This meant that the car was not only recognized for its appearance and performance but also for its sound. The roar of this Yellow Devil was fierce and unmistakable.

Supercar enthusiasts are always on the lookout for unique and rare models, and the Lamborghini 132 GT1 is one of those hidden gems. While its racing career was short-lived, its legacy continues to captivate those who appreciate the blend of raw power and sleek design. For those curious about other unique Diablo variants, the Strosek offers another fascinating chapter in Lamborghini's storied history. *** [EKA [08112019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | UPOST | LOVE CARS | FIA HISTORIC DATABASE | MOTOR.ES | AUTOYAHOO ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.

Ferrari P80/C: The Most Radical One-Off Supercar Ever Built

Visionary Obsession - In the world of supercars, where style and speed often compete for attention, there's something irresistible about a car that dares to break the mold entirely. It’s not every day that a company like Ferrari throws all rules out the window and builds something so radical, so personal, that it only exists as a one-off creation. Yet, that’s exactly what happened with the birth of the Ferrari P80/C—a bold vision brought to life through passion, precision, and an unshakable love for automotive excellence.

The most extreme Ferrari's one-off supercar ever designed called Ferrari P80/C. (Picture from: TopGear)

This remarkable vehicle is not just another Ferrari. It’s a dream carved into carbon fiber. Behind its creation lies a close collaboration between Ferrari’s Stilo Centro design house, led by the brilliant Flavio Manzoni, and a client who’s more than just a wealthy collector. This client grew up surrounded by the roar of Ferrari engines and the elegance of their curves. He's someone whose knowledge and emotional connection to Ferrari made him the perfect partner for such an intimate and imaginative journey. The result? A car with a soul as unique as its silhouette.

Final design sketch of the one-off Ferrari P80/C. (Picture from: CintaMobil)

What sets the P80/C apart isn’t just its exclusivity, but the purpose behind it. Built solely as a track car, the P80/C still echoes Ferrari’s most iconic road models. The client envisioned a modern interpretation of historic racing legends like the Ferrari 330 P3/P4 and the 1966 Dino 206 S. That vision gave Ferrari's team the green light to move far beyond standard design limits. The task was clear: create a completely new type of Ferrari—a prototype unlike anything before it.

Ferrari P80/C is a new ride four years in the making, built for one unnamed collector for an undisclosed price. (Picture from: CTVNews)

The foundation of the P80/C rests on the proven bones of the 488 GT3. Not only was this choice essential for performance, but it also allowed Ferrari's designers to play with proportions and lines. The wheelbase is 50mm longer than the 488 GTB, offering more freedom to stretch the rear and push the cabin forward. This change alone dramatically shifted the car’s personality, giving it a compact, razor-sharp presence on the track.

Front-left side view of one-off Ferrari P80/C. (Picture from: Evo.co.uk)

Look at it from above, and the shape reveals its secret: wider at the front, tapering inward with dramatic force. The C-pillars don’t just hold structure—they make a statement. Detached from the roof, they cradle the intake funnels while forming a channel that slices through to the engine cover. The bodyline is clean, confident, and designed to turn heads before the engine even starts.

Interior view of one-off Ferrari P80/C.(Picture from: Evo.co.uk)

The P80/C also wears two identities. In one mode, it's fitted for the racetrack—complete with 18-inch single-nut wheels and aggressive carbon-fiber aero elements that scream performance. In its alternate form, the car dons 21-inch wheels with no extra aerodynamic hardware, stripping it back to pure, sculptural beauty. Both configurations reflect the car’s dual purpose: art in motion, and a machine bred to perform.

Although crafted entirely from carbon fiber, the car’s aesthetic goes far beyond raw materials. Most of the body is painted in a deep, radiant red called Rosso Vero—a color selected personally by the client, another nod to his intimate connection with the project. The bare carbon is only exposed in areas with precise technical function, letting the painted surfaces dominate the visual presence.

Rear down view of one-off Ferrari P80/C.(Picture from: Evo.co.uk)

Even the rear of the car is a masterclass in creative engineering. The design hints at a catamaran layout, leaving parts of the structure uncovered to serve both visual and cooling purposes. A large rear diffuser practically hovers beneath the tail, while the concave rear glass and aluminum grille channel the spirit of the classic 330 P3/P4, cementing the P80/C’s identity as a love letter to Ferrari’s racing heritage.

Step inside, and the atmosphere is all business. The interior echoes its GT3 roots, complete with integrated roll cage and a minimalistic focus on performance. Yet, it still carries subtle refinements—the redesigned dashboard, the custom door panels, and the exposed carbon accents all work together without adding unnecessary weight.

After years in development—it began in 2015—the P80/C stands today as Ferrari’s longest-ever one-off project. It’s not just a car; it’s the result of patience, passion, and precision engineering taken to its most artistic level. And it exists because someone dared to dream, and Ferrari chose to listen.

The P80/C isn’t meant for public roads, but its story will inspire those who admire the power of creativity, collaboration, and craftsmanship. It's a reminder that even in a world of limited editions and exclusive models, there’s still room for something truly original. And sometimes, the greatest Ferraris are the ones that are built just once. *** [EKA [28042019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TOFM | CTV NEWS | TOP GEAR | EVO ] 
Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone.

Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas: The Soul of Italian Design in Motion

Moving Artistry - In a world where automotive design often oscillates between nostalgia and futurism, there are a few creations that manage to merge both realms into a single breathtaking form. One such masterpiece is the Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas — a name that sounds like poetry even before one lays eyes on the car itself. It is not merely a concept; it’s a declaration of how Italian craftsmanship continues to shape the language of speed, style, and imagination.

Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas concept car has been debuted and shown off at the Geneva International Motor Show 2019. (Picture from: Motor1)

The Almas was born from a collaboration between two figures who understand the emotional depth of design: Umberto Palermo, the visionary mind behind UP Design, and Paolo Scudieri, president of Italy’s Adler Group. Their partnership represents the meeting of artistic intuition and engineering precision — Palermo’s passion for sculptural beauty fusing seamlessly with Scudieri’s mastery of advanced materials and production innovation. Adler, notably, also supplies the carbon tub chassis for the Alfa Romeo 4C, an automotive icon in its own right. Together, they ventured beyond conventional design, creating something that feels both futuristic and deeply Italian in spirit. (Wanna see the first joint project of those two companies above.)

Front three quarter of the Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas concept car. (Picture from: Motor1)

When the Almas made its public debut at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show, it instantly turned heads — not just for its audacious aesthetics, but for what it symbolized: a renewed confidence in handcrafted automotive art. Its body is a mesmerizing interplay of red carbon fiber and a matte black roof, creating a visual tension that’s as elegant as it is aggressive. Built upon a carbon chassis developed by Adler, the car exudes an aura of strength without sacrificing lightness. The sweeping lines and sharp contours seem to move even when the car is still — an intentional illusion that captures the essence of Italian performance design.

Left side view of the Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas concept car. (Picture from: Motor1)

The front fascia commands presence with a large grille that proudly centers a polished chrome emblem, flanked by sleek LED headlights and discreet air intakes. From the side, the Almas adopts a dramatic silhouette defined by angular windows, muscular shoulders, and robust B-pillars that suggest stability within its aerodynamic form. At the rear, the design continues its bold narrative: a sculpted engine cover, quad tailpipes, and a confident diffuser framed by taillights reminiscent of the Lexus LC — though rendered here with a uniquely Italian flair. Every line has purpose; every surface tells a story.

Rear three quarter of the Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas concept car. (Picture from: Motor1)

Inside, Mole Automobile promises a cabin that pairs luxury with innovation — an environment crafted from advanced materials and infused with the latest in telematics and safety systems. It’s a vision of comfort that refuses to compromise on technology, demonstrating how design and digital intelligence can coexist harmoniously. The Almas is envisioned as a grand tourer, measuring 4,730 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width, and 1,218 mm in height — dimensions that suggest poise, proportion, and presence.

 

Perhaps most intriguing is the powertrain philosophy behind it. While the Almas could adopt a hydrogen-based propulsion system, the company has also hinted at a version driven by a traditional petrol engine — a nod to the visceral connection many enthusiasts still crave. That flexibility suggests that the Almas is not simply a static design exercise but a platform of ideas, open to evolution as technology and taste advance. 

For now, the Almas remains a concept — a vision waiting for its full expression. Yet even in its conceptual form, it has achieved something rare: it rekindles excitement for the future of coachbuilt cars in an era dominated by mass production and automation. It reminds us that the essence of Italian design has always been about more than performance figures or power output. It’s about the soul embedded in the metal, the dialogue between tradition and innovation, and the pursuit of beauty for its own sake.

If the Mole Costruzione Artigianale Almas ever makes its way to the roads, it won’t just be another exotic car — it will be a symbol of what happens when imagination, craftsmanship, and daring ambition align. Until that moment, it stands as a modern-day sculpture in motion, an eloquent whisper from Italy’s golden lineage of automotive artistry, and a reminder that dreams, when shaped by the right hands, can indeed take form in carbon and chrome. As closing, here's another car that was previously made similar to Almas and designed also by UP Design in 2015. *** [EKA [10042019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOLE AUTOMOBILES | GIMS | MOTOR1 | TOP SPEED | MOTORING | CARSCOOPS]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone.

Ferrari GTO Vision: The Beautifully Banned Tribute to 1980s Legends

Unfortunate Brilliance -  When it comes to turning automotive dreams into reality, few names inspire as much reverence as Ferrari. From the classic curves of the 288 GTO to the aggressive silhouette of the F40, Ferrari has consistently delivered some of the most iconic supercars in history. You might still recall recent masterpieces from Ferrari’s bespoke division—like the SP1 and SP2 speedsters or the one-off P80/C—but what we’re about to talk about is something entirely different. Imagine a machine that doesn't just take inspiration from those legends, but fuses their DNA into a single, breathtaking creation. That’s exactly what the Ferrari GTO Vision set out to be.

The Ferrari GTO Vision by 7X Design. (Picture from: Zero2Turbo)

The Ferrari GTO Vision isn’t just a modern car with a vintage soul. It’s a striking tribute that bridges generations of Ferrari excellence. Originally born as a Ferrari 488 GTB, this car underwent a complete transformation under the hands of 7X Design, an automotive design house known for pushing the limits of imagination and craftsmanship. Their goal was simple but ambitious: to create a unique Ferrari that pays homage to the past while embracing the future. 

The Ferrari 288 GTO (Type F114) is one of the homologation car model ranging built from 1984 to 1987 and only 272 units ever made during its production periods. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

At first glance, the GTO Vision instantly stands out. Nearly every panel of the original 488 GTB has been stripped away and replaced with a sleek, new body made entirely from carbon fiber. This not only dramatically changes the car’s appearance, but also keeps its weight impressively low. The design language flows with the elegance of the 288 GTO and the raw appeal of the F40, blending seamlessly with elements borrowed from modern Ferrari track beasts like the FXX K and the F12 Berlinetta.  

Front three quarter view of the Ferrari GTO Vision by 7X Design.(Picture from: 7XDesign)

One of the most eye-catching features is the dual winglets at the rear—clearly a nod to Ferrari’s extreme performance models—while the diffuser and rear bumper bring in the muscular stance reminiscent of the F12 Berlinetta. Even the engine cover echoes the legendary F40, while the front is framed with sharp, double headlights inspired by the 288 GTO. These cues aren’t just copied—they’re reinvented with modern flair and exquisite detail.

Rear side view of the Ferrari GTO Vision by 7X Design. (Picture from: 7XDesign)

But 7X Design didn’t stop at aesthetics. Every line, vent, and panel on the GTO Vision is deliberate. New wheels, crafted specifically for this car, support the visual transformation, while clever design touches—like the floating body elements—highlight the thought and engineering poured into this build. Details such as the rear slats behind the wheels throw back to the 288 GTO era, and the wide rear tires give it that unmistakable 1980s supercar drama. There’s even a playful twist in the Ferrari badge up front, which doubles as the trunk release—a small but charming surprise.

Despite its dazzling looks and technical execution, the GTO Vision's journey wasn't without bumps in the road. Initially launched with the promise of availability for 488 GTB and F8 Tributo owners, 7X Design offered the transformation for around €1.8 million—though early adopters were offered a lower price tag. Each build was expected to take six to nine months, and customization options meant the final cost could go even higher. However, Ferrari themselves didn’t officially sanction the project. That lack of approval led to the model being banned, adding a bittersweet twist to its otherwise glorious story. 

Still, the Ferrari GTO Vision leaves behind a powerful impression. It shows what can happen when creativity meets craftsmanship, and when homage to the past is fused with the possibilities of modern automotive design. It might never wear the official badge of approval from Maranello, but for enthusiasts, it’s a reminder that passion often drives the most unforgettable creations—especially when it’s riding on four wheels and roars with the heart of a prancing horse. *** [EKA [07072019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | 7X DESIGN | MOTOR1 | ZERO2TURBO ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.

Will the Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar able to reap its own success story?

Resurrected Beast - In the realm of automotive history, certain cars evoke not just nostalgia but a sense of longing for what could have been. One such iconic vehicle is the Jaguar XJ13, a racing car born in the mid-1960s with dreams of conquering the 24-Hours of Le Mans endurance race. However, fate had other plans, and the XJ13 never had the chance to compete due to regulatory changes.

Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar inspired by unsuccessfully Jaguar XJ13 racing car of the 1960s. (Picture from: ZigWheels)

Jaguar, known for its timeless elegance and performance, also had a brush with tragedy in its history. The Jaguar XJ13, powered by a V12 engine, was poised to be a legend on the tracks but ended up as a casualty of evolving homologation rules. Despite a brief appearance in a promotional film, the XJ13 met an untimely end on the MIRA track in the United States.

Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar made of composite materials for the body to make it lighter than the original XJ13. (Picture from: ZigWheels)

Fast forward to 2019, where a Scottish company named Ecurie Ecosse seeks to resurrect the spirit of the XJ13 through a project called LM69. This endeavor aims to create a retro-style supercar inspired by the golden era of 1960s Jaguar racing cars, specifically envisioning what could have been if the XJ13 had raced at Le Mans in 1969.

Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar used the same engine of the Jaguar XJ13, ie a quad-cam 5.0 liters V12 engine. (Picture from: ZigWheels)

The LM69 is not just a tribute; it's a meticulous reimagining of a bygone era. While it takes cues from the XJ13, it is not an exact replica. The LM69 features modern enhancements such as a fixed roof, rear wing, and aerodynamic winglets. These additions, along with wider rims and tires, contribute to its street-legal status in the UK and enhanced performance capabilities.

Ecurie Ecosse LM69 retro-styled supercar has many differences with the Jag XJ13, such as a wider wheels and tires beside composite materials using for the body. (Picture from: Motor1)

Underneath its composite material body lies a quad-cam 5.0-liter V12 engine, positioned in the middle for optimal balance and handling. While specifics about the engine remain a mystery, Ecurie Ecosse hints at the possibility of a bespoke 7.3-liter engine, showcasing their dedication to blending heritage with innovation.

The unveiling of the LM69 at the International Concours of Elegance in 2019 was a testament to the timeless allure of Jaguar's racing legacy. Although pricing details remain undisclosed, it's clear that owning a piece of automotive history and innovation will require a substantial investment.

In a world where the past and present collide, the LM69 stands as a bridge between nostalgia and modernity, offering enthusiasts a chance to experience the untold chapter of Jaguar's racing saga. As automotive technology evolves, the spirit of classic racing cars like the XJ13 lives on, ensuring that their legacy remains immortalized on both the track and the streets. *** [EKA [05082019]  | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ECURIE ECOSSE | ZIGWHEELS | MOTOR1]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone.