Lionhearted Machine - In today’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape, manufacturers are constantly looking for new ways to stand out. Whether through groundbreaking technology or striking design, the goal remains the same: to captivate the imagination of consumers. Recently, one brand has begun to make waves — Great Wall Motor (GWM), through its Souo division, has made a bold move that is drawing major attention with the launch of an extraordinary machine: the GWM Souo S2000.
The
GWM Souo hosted a unique celebration for riders, culminating in the 2024 GWM Heavy Motorbike Carnival in Baoding, and witnessed to the thrilling release of the GWM Souo S2000. (Picture from: GWM-Global)
Originating from China, GWM Souo ventures into new territory with the creation of the world’s first motorcycle powered by an 8-cylinder, 2,000cc engine. There are three models are available: the S2000ST two-box version, the S2000GL three-box version and the Founder Edition. The Souo S2000, a cruiser-style motorbike aimed at competing with legendary names like the Honda Gold Wing. However, its appeal is not limited to engine size alone; this impressive machine masterfully combines raw power with cutting-edge technology, making it truly one of a kind.
The GWM Souo S2000: the world’s first 2,000cc 8-cylinder cruiser motorcycle, aimed at competing with legendary names like the Honda Gold Wing. (Picture from: JPNN)
Victor Zhao, CEO of GWM Souo, proudly states that the Souo S2000 holds the distinction of being the only motorcycle in the world equipped with such a powerful 8-cylinder engine of this size. Manufactured in Baoding, China, the bike doesn’t just boast muscle; it also features an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), a system typically reserved for high-performance sports cars. This ensures the Souo S2000 offers a seamless and exhilarating riding experience, marrying comfort with precision engineering.
The 4-valve, DOHC, horizontally-opposed, eight-cylinder, two-liter engine is a sculpture in its own right.(Picture from: AMCN.com.au)
Adding to its sophisticated performance, the Souo S2000 comes equipped with an electrically adjustable suspension system. This allows the shock absorbers to adapt automatically to different road conditions, enhancing the ride quality for both the rider and the passenger.
The GWM Souo S2000 while sat on display at the Auto Shanghai 2025. (Picture from: JawaPos)
For maximum riding comfort, the Souo S2000 is fitted with a Hossack-style front suspension. Its braking system features Brembo floating calipers and discs, supported by an electronic parking brake. Long-distance touring is made even more enjoyable with a TFT display integrated with an audio system and Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, the bike offers a voice control system for various functions, an electrically adjustable rider’s seat, and a Cruise Control system to easily adjust speed while on the move.
The GWM Souo S2000's headlamp is inspired by the traditional Chinese lion dance, a symbol of excitement and good fortune. (Picture from: GridOto)
Under the hood, the 2,000cc engine produces an impressive 153 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 190 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. This performance ensures the bike roars confidently on highways while also handling low-speed maneuvers with surprising agility. Thanks to its robust engine configuration, the Souo S2000 even offers a reverse function, capable of backing up at speeds of up to 3 km/h — a practical feature for navigating tight spaces.
The GWM Souo S2000 while sat on display at the Auto Shanghai 2025. (Picture from: GridOto)
The design of the Souo S2000 is deeply rooted in cultural significance. Its headlamp is inspired by the traditional Chinese lion dance, a symbol of excitement and good fortune. This thoughtful design choice gives the motorcycle a distinctive character, blending cultural heritage with modern style, and showcasing GWM Souo’s pride in its roots while boldly stepping into the global arena.
Priced at RMB ¥238,000 — approximately Rp. 549 million based on the April 2025 exchange rate — the Souo S2000 is currently available exclusively in the Chinese market, positioning itself as a premium option for riders who seek something truly extraordinary.
With its innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and cultural symbolism, the GWM Souo S2000 is far more than just a motorcycle; it is a true statement. Although it is currently only available in China, excitement continues to grow around the idea of its potential release worldwide. For riders seeking exclusivity, power, and character all in one unforgettable package, the Souo S2000 could be the dream machine worth waiting for.
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 | GWM-GLOBAL | NEW ATLAS | AMCN.COM.AU | CARSCOOPS ]
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Exclusive Ingenuity - Ferrari has long been synonymous with luxury, speed, and exclusivity. Owning one is already a symbol of prestige, but for some collectors, even that is not enough. They seek something truly one-of-a-kind—a Ferrari designed specifically for them, reflecting their personal taste and vision. This desire for exclusivity has led to the creation of unique, tailor-made Ferraris, and among the most fascinating examples is the Ferrari Fioravanti SP1.
The Ferrari Fioravanti SP1, born from Ferrari’s Portfolio Coachbuilding Program in 2008, was designed by Fioravanti for Japanese Ferrari enthusiast Junichiro Hiramatsu. (Picture from: Hagerty)
In the early days, Ferrari provided only the chassis and engine, leaving the body design to renowned Italian coachbuilders like Pininfarina, Bertone, Touring, Ghia, and Boano. This practice allowed customers to commission bespoke designs, turning their Ferraris into rolling works of art. However, as time went on, Ferrari streamlined its production process and established Pininfarina as its exclusive design partner, ending the era of multiple independent coachbuilders. Despite this shift, the spirit of customization lived on, paving the way for Ferrari’s Portfolio Coachbuilding Program—an initiative that allowed select clients to commission one-off models with personalized styling.
The Ferrari Fioravanti SP1 was the first Ferrari Special Project model, designed by Italian design house Fioravanti for Japanese businessman Junichiro Hiramatsu. (Picture from: Motorward)
The Ferrari Fioravanti SP1 was the first car born from this program. Commissioned by Junichiro Hiramatsu, a passionate Ferrari enthusiast from Japan, the SP1 was a car that embodied his admiration for both the Ferrari brand and the work of Leonardo Fioravanti, a legendary designer. Fioravanti was responsible for some of Ferrari’s most iconic models, including the Ferrari 308 GTB, and had previously designed an independent Ferrari concept known as the Fioravanti F100 in 1998. Hiramatsu was so captivated by the F100’s design that he approached Ferrari with a request—he wanted a Ferrari inspired by that concept.
The Ferrari Fioravanti SP1 built on the foundation of the Ferrari F430, featured a completely reimagined body designed by Fioravanti. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
Ferrari granted his request and turned to Fioravanti to bring this vision to life. Built on the foundation of the Ferrari F430, the SP1 (Special Project 1) featured a completely reimagined body designed by Fioravanti. While the car retained the F430’s structural elements, including the windshield and side windows, the rest of the exterior was transformed. The new body panels were crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, giving the car a more aggressive and aerodynamic profile. The roof, side skirts, and rear bumper prominently displayed the material’s raw texture, adding a modern and high-performance aesthetic.
The Ferrari Fioravanti SP1's new body panels were crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, giving the car a more aggressive and aerodynamic profile. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
One of the most striking aspects of the SP1 was its rear design. The tail section was raised slightly, featuring sharp, sculpted air intakes and taillights sourced from the Ferrari 599 GTB. At the front, the modifications were subtler. Fioravanti extended the nose, making it appear sleeker and lower while retaining the F430’s original headlights. Small adjustments around the lights gave the car a more distinctive and refined appearance. The wheels, borrowed from the 430 Scuderia, and the stock side mirrors maintained a sense of familiarity while ensuring the SP1 remained unmistakably a Ferrari.
The Ferrari Fioravanti SP1's cabin retained the 430's layout, with beige genuine leather covering the seats, central console, doors, and interior, except for the dashboard. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Beyond its visual transformation, the SP1 remained a high-performance machine, staying true to Ferrari’s heritage of speed and precision engineering. While its mechanical specifications largely mirrored those of the F430, the car’s unique body and aerodynamic refinements made it a truly special driving experience. What made it even more intriguing was its presence in the digital world—Ferrari allowed enthusiasts to experience the SP1 virtually through the popular racing games Gran Turismo 5 and 6, making it accessible to a global audience in a way few one-off Ferraris ever have been.
The Ferrari Fioravanti SP1 featured a striking rear design with a slightly raised tail, sharp sculpted air intakes, and taillights from the 599 GTB. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
This exceptional vehicle was not just a personal statement by Hiramatsu; it also marked the beginning of a new era for Ferrari. As the first official one-off project under Ferrari’s Portfolio Program, the SP1 set the stage for future custom-built Ferraris, demonstrating the company’s willingness to cater to the most dedicated clients with unique automotive visions. The program has since produced several other bespoke models, but the SP1 remains a landmark creation—a testament to Ferrari’s ability to blend exclusivity, artistry, and performance in a single, breathtaking machine.
Though years have passed since its creation, the Ferrari Fioravanti SP1 continues to hold a special place in automotive history. It represents the fusion of past and future, blending classic coachbuilding traditions with modern Ferrari craftsmanship. For those lucky enough to see it in person, it serves as a reminder of what makes Ferrari truly special—not just as a brand, but as a canvas for automotive dreams brought to life. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTORWARD | HAGERTY | COACHBUILD | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | AUTOBLOG | SUPERCARS.NET | EXCLUSIVECARREGESTRY ]
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Vanished Velocity - For years, South Korean automakers have been globally recognized through brands like Hyundai, KIA, and a few others such as Daewoo and SsangYong. But who would have imagined that South Korea also produced a striking supercar with gull-wing doors—possibly the first Korean car ever to debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed?
The South Korean first supercar named de Macross Epique GT1 made its debut at the.Goodwood Festival of Speed (Picture from: 4WheelsNews)
Back to 2012, there're the supercar, named the de Macross Epique GT1 and took part in the Goodwood Festival of Speed.This supercar built with carbon fiber material that makes the body becomes so
lightweight. This blend of slick design supercar is the idea of Korean oil magnate and avid car collector, Jahong Keyser Hur in an attempt to capture the sensuous lines of the late 60s and early 70s Le Mans race cars into a modern interpretation.
Front three quarter of de Macross Epique GT1.(Picture from: 4WheelsNews)
"Mr. Hur loves cars and he follows his dream to make himself a supercar and automotive companies," said the spokesman of de Macross Motor Corporation, Yongbin Choi, as reported by Autocar.
The
de Macross Epique GT1 was recently spotted on the streets of South
Korea, its unique shape leaving most people unaware of what it
was.(Picture from: Chejiahao.Autohome.com.cn)
The automaker, de Macross Motor Corporation, a lesser-known startup founded in 2009 and based in Canada, and to develop the de Macross Epique GT1 project, the company received financial backing from a South Korean firm.
Interior view of de Macross Epique GT1.(Picture from: Caradisiac)
As mentioned above, the car in question is built based on the hybrid carbon fiber and aluminum monocoque tub structure engineered by Multimatic, a Toronto-based company. Then the Epique's suspension is used 4-way independently adjustable Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve (DSSV) dampers, which is also used by Red Bull Racing to win the 2010 F1 World Championship.
The de Macross Epique GT1 is powered by a supercharged 5.4-litre Ford V8 that Roush tweaked to produce more than 800bhp and 725lbft of torque. (Picture from: Caradisiac)
Furthermore, the supercar is powered by a supercharged in line 5.4-litre Ford V8 mid-mounted engine capable to burst out the power more than 800 bhp and 725 lb-ft of torque coupled with a Ricardo transaxle that an alloy rear subframe supports. Thanks
to this concoction, the 1,450 kg weighted car capable to accelerate
from 0 to 100 kph of 3.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 230 mph or
370 kph.
Rear view of de Macross Epique GT1. (Picture from: TopSpeed)
The Epique GT1 itself was first introduced by de Macrossto the public at the Dubai Auto Show 2011 and is expected to continue to expand its wings in line with the ambitions of the company's founder and owner.Moreover, the automaker claims that many buyers from the Middle East and America are already interested in the car.
For those of You who want to be the owner of this car, to be able to bring this Epique GT1 estimated that You have to prepare funds of up to US $ 1.5 million or around Rp. 14.1
billion before contact the automaker, the price above does not include taxes with a six-month waiting time quoted. Unfortunately to this day there is no more news related to how many the Epique GT1 has been produced by de Macross.😉 *** [EKA [16062015] [23042022] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DEMACROSS | FACEBOOK | AUTOCAR | TOPSPEED | MOTORAUTHORITY | AUTOEVOLUTION | CARBUZZ | CHEJIAHAO.AUTOHOME.COM.CN | CARSSIMPLIFIED ]
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Exiled Excellence - In a world where sleek designs and cutting-edge tech dominate the conversation about modern sports cars, there’s something uniquely captivating about machines that blend raw, analog charm with engineering precision. Among the hidden gems that have quietly built a cult following is the Tommy Kaira ZZ—a car that refuses to be ordinary, both in its mechanical soul and the story it tells through its evolution.
The first-generation Tommy Kaira ZZ, designed by Takuya Yura of Mooncraft, featured a silhouette that screamed motorsport inspiration—especially with the detachable roof removed—and was produced from 1996 to 2000. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)
Originally launched in 1997, the Tommy Kaira ZZ wasn’t just a car—it was a statement. With a body crafted from FRP mounted on an aluminum twin-tube monocoque chassis, it weighed only 740 kg, immediately placing it in the realm of performance legends. Designed by Takuya Yura of Mooncraft, the silhouette screamed motorsport inspiration, with every curve engineered not just for beauty but for pure driving efficiency. Built in the UK by Tomita Auto UK, the first-generation ZZ saw a total production of just 206 units, making it an ultra-rare find for enthusiasts.
The first-generation Tommy Kaira ZZ featured a body made from FRP mounted on an aluminum twin-tube monocoque chassis, which explains its remarkably low weight of just 740 kg. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
At the heart of this compact machine was a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter Nissan SR20DE inline-four engine, known for its reliability and punchy delivery. But in the ZZ, it was no ordinary installation. Swapped with a set of Keihin 45 mm carburetors, the engine churned out 178 hp and 195 Nm of torque. Later models received a slight bump in power, but the essence remained the same: lightweight agility paired with raw mechanical feedback. With a 0–100 km/h sprint of just about 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 241 km/h, the ZZ didn’t just perform—it thrilled.
The first-generation Tommy Kaira ZZ's interior looks bare but beautiful, featuring a bespoke brushed-aluminum gauge cluster and one of the most unique shifters you'll ever see. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)
The suspension setup, a double wishbone system front and rear, was tuned with SPAX adjustable dampers offering 14 levels of fine-tuning. This, combined with the non-servo braking system featuring vented front discs and solid rear discs, meant every input from the driver was met with immediate, honest feedback. It's this purity that earned it high praise from circuit drivers, many of whom dubbed it “the strongest cornering machine in history.”
The first-generation Tommy Kaira ZZ powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter Nissan SR20DE inline-four engine. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)
Later, the ZZ-S model was introduced, offering a slight increase in horsepower to 197 hp. While mechanically similar, it added an extra layer of urgency to the already impressive formula. But just as momentum began to build, production hit a legal roadblock. A change in Japan’s crash safety regulations for imported vehicles forced an untimely halt, despite having over four hundred orders queued up. The first-generation ZZ became an imported Japanese car, ironically, that never fully got its chance to shine in its home market.
The first-generation Tommy Kaira ZZ was built in the UK by Tomita Auto UK, with only 206 units produced, making it an ultra-rare find for enthusiasts. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)
When Tomita Auto UK dissolved, the design found new life through Breckland Technologies in the form of the Leading Edge 190 RT and 240 RT, produced between 2002 and 2005. Though tweaks like the use of Mikuni carburetors were made, the soul of the ZZ lingered on. Eventually, even this revival was short-lived, with the company folding and the remaining assets—including a 240 RT—being acquired by a collector in Pakistan. | SCsMmcOaJ8U |
The story didn’t end there. In 2014, the ZZ name roared back into relevance, reborn through a collaboration between Tommy Kaira and GLM, a Kyoto-based startup with roots in academia. With backing from notable investors like Mitsubishi UFJ Capital and Globis Capital Partners, over $14 million in funding fueled the creation of a second-generation ZZ. But this was no retro throwback—it was a leap into the future.
The second-generation Tommy Kaira ZZ was built on a modular chassis platform and produced from 2014 to 2021.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
Swapping combustion for electricity, the new ZZ sported an electric motor delivering 305 hp and a 0–60 mph time of under 4.0 seconds, faster than its predecessor. Marketed around $80,000, this version, often dubbed the ZZ-EV, came with a 121 km range and was built on a modular chassis platform, offering potential for future performance upgrades. While it traded carburetors for current, it retained the original’s DNA—lightweight, agile, and unapologetically driver-focused. Production ended in mid-2021, marking the close of an era that spanned innovation across both analog and digital frontiers.
The second-generation Tommy Kaira ZZ features an electric powertrain with a 121 km range and the potential for future performance upgrades. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
For those lucky enough to experience the Tommy Kaira ZZ, whether the original or the electric revival, the feeling is unmistakable. One such owner, enchanted by the rebirth of the ZZ on television, tracked one down in Osaka and bought it the very next day. Despite injuries and time away from the wheel, he remembered the joy it brought on winding mountain roads—an experience too visceral and rare to be forgotten. | 98s66YPk2ZI |
The Tommy Kaira ZZ stands not just as a car, but as a story of perseverance, passion, and evolution. From its handcrafted origins to its futuristic reinvention, it remains a symbol of what driving should feel like when heart meets engineering. For those in the know, it's not just a car—they’ll tell you it’s a legend waiting to be rediscovered. In the 2000s, the Japanese manufacturer even attempted a comeback with the Tommy Kaira ZZ-II, envisioned as the next chapter in its story—but it was short-lived.😥 *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ENTHUNO-MORI | ROADANDTRACK | MOTORAUTHORITY | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Track Dominator - In the world of high-performance automobiles, there are few names that resonate with as much excitement and prestige as the Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus (SCG). A relatively young company founded by James Glickenhaus, SCG has quickly made a name for itself by pushing the boundaries of automotive design and engineering. The SCG 003, one of their flagship supercars, has captured the attention of enthusiasts and car aficionados alike, thanks to its incredible performance and innovative design. Its debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show was nothing short of spectacular, as it introduced two versions that would leave a lasting mark on the industry—the SCG 003S and SCG 003C.
Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus SCG 003S alogside its sibling SCG 003S set debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2015. (Picture from: Car_Revs_Daily)
James Glickenhaus's vision for SCG was to create vehicles that not only provided an exhilarating driving experience but also reflected his deep passion for racing. With a background in both the film industry and car collecting, Glickenhaus used his resources and expertise to launch SCG, aiming to build cars that would rival the world's most prestigious automakers. The SCG 003 project, a true manifestation of his ambition, was born out of this vision. Drawing inspiration from Le Mans prototypes, the SCG 003 shares design elements and engineering features with the world-renowned LMP1 and LMP2 race cars. This connection to racing heritage is evident in the car's striking appearance and performance capabilities.
Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus SCG 003S or "Stradale," sat on display at the Geneva Motor Show 2015. (Picture from: Autoblog)
The design and engineering of the SCG 003 were executed in collaboration with some of the most talented professionals in the automotive world. Granstudio, a design studio based in Turin, Italy, took the lead in shaping the car’s aggressive yet aerodynamic form. Partnering with Podium Engineering, the team worked meticulously to ensure that every aspect of the vehicle was tailored for maximum performance. Paolo Catone, a former member of the Peugeot Team who had a hand in the development of the legendary Peugeot 905 and 908, played a pivotal role in ensuring that the SCG 003 could meet the demands of the most challenging racing environments. These collaborations helped give birth to a hypercar that was more than just a stunning piece of automotive engineering—it was a racing machine built to conquer the track.
Interior and dashboard view of Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus SCG 003S. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
The SCG 003 comes in two versions, each designed with a specific purpose in mind. The SCG 003S, or "Stradale," is the road-going version, built for those who desire both speed and elegance on the streets. With a lightweight carbon fiber chassis and a twin-turbo V6 engine, the 003S offers an exhilarating ride for those fortunate enough to experience it. Meanwhile, the SCG 003C, the "Competizione" version, is a true racing car. Equipped with a powerful 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine sourced from Honda, the Competizione version produces an impressive 530 horsepower, enabling it to achieve outstanding track performance. Coupled with a sequential transmission system, the Competizione version is designed to take on the world’s most demanding racing circuits.
Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus SCG 003C "Competizione," sat on display at the Geneva Motor Show 2015. (Picture from: Autoblog)
The SCG 003’s performance is truly extraordinary, with the car achieving a record-breaking time at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, one of the most famous and challenging race tracks in the world. The car completed the 12.9-mile course in a blistering 6 minutes and 43 seconds, outpacing the Porsche 918 and even beating the previous record held by the Pagani Zonda R. This incredible achievement further solidified the SCG 003’s status as one of the fastest and most capable vehicles ever built. Such accomplishments underscore the car's true racing pedigree and reinforce James Glickenhaus’s commitment to producing vehicles that blend cutting-edge technology with traditional motorsport excellence.
Interior and dashboard view of Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus SCG 003C. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
As SCG continues to make waves in the automotive world, the SCG 003 stands as a testament to the company’s ambition and ingenuity. The car’s combination of striking design, unparalleled performance, and racing heritage ensures that it will remain a symbol of automotive excellence for years to come. With deliveries of the SCG 003S expected to begin later this year, fans and enthusiasts eagerly await the chance to see this remarkable machine in action. The legacy of the SCG 003 is just beginning, and it’s clear that James Glickenhaus and his team have only scratched the surface of what they can achieve in the world of supercars.
The SCG 003 is a prime example of how passion and expertise can come together to create something truly exceptional. For those who appreciate the art of car design and the thrill of high-performance driving, the SCG 003 represents the pinnacle of what a modern supercar can be. With its rich history, cutting-edge technology, and undeniable pedigree, the SCG 003 is more than just a car—it’s a symbol of innovation and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of automotive engineering. As we look toward the future of SCG, it’s exciting to think about the next chapter in this remarkable journey. *** [EKA [18042015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SCG 003 | AUTOBLOG | MOTORAUTHORITY | ULTIMATECARPAGE | CARSCOOP | GIZMAG | CAR_REVS_DAILY ]
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Caged Legend - The 1990s were an era of automotive brilliance, birthing some of the most iconic performance cars ever made. It was a time when manufacturers pushed the limits of engineering, creating machines that dominated both the streets and the racetrack. Amidst the giants of this golden age, some extraordinary models flew under the radar, either due to their rarity or their exclusivity. One such machine, shrouded in mystery and intrigue, is the Nissan GT-R Skyline R33 LM. A car built with racing in its DNA, yet one that was never sold nor even driven on public roads.
The Nissan GT-R R33 LM, shrouded in mystery and intrigue, was built for racing but never sold or driven on public roads. (Picture from: TopGear)
The story of this elusive masterpiece begins in 1995 when Nissan set its sights on the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the most prestigious endurance races in the world. To comply with the new GT1 class regulations, manufacturers needed to create a road-going version of their race car to qualify for entry. Unlike many competitors who built multiple homologation units, Nissan took a different approach—they made just one. This lone R33 LM road car became a rare gem in the automotive world, a machine built to satisfy the rules but destined never to leave Nissan’s hands.
The Nissan GT-R R33 LM became a rare automotive gem, built to meet regulations but destined never to leave Nissan’s hands. (Picture from: TopGear)
The reason behind this single-unit production lies in the evolving landscape of endurance racing. The early 1990s saw the decline of Nissan’s Group C racing programs, leading the company to rethink its motorsport strategy. With regulations shifting towards production-based GT cars, Nissan chose to base its new Le Mans contender on the latest iteration of its legendary Skyline GT-R. The R32 GT-R had already earned the nickname "Godzilla"after obliterating the competition with a staggering 29 wins in 29 starts. Naturally, its successor, the R33, was expected to carry on this legacy and prove its dominance on the world stage.
The Nissan GT-R R33 LM road car remained nearly identical to its racing counterpart, featuring an Alcantara Nismo steering wheel and snug checkered racing seats. (Picture from: TopGear)
To transform the Skyline into a Le Mans-ready machine, Nissan’s motorsport division, Nismo, stripped down the R33, shedding weight until it reached just 1,150 kg. The front-wheel-drive components were removed, making it a pure rear-wheel-drive racer, while the RB26DETT engine was tuned to produce around 400 horsepower. Aerodynamics played a crucial role in its design, with an aggressive wide-body kit enhancing downforce, cooling, and stability. However, before the R33 LM could officially compete, it had to meet homologation requirements—hence the birth of the single road-going version.
The Nissan GT-R R33 LM is a pure rear-wheel-drive racer, while the RB26DETT engine was tuned to produce around 400 horsepower. (Picture from: TopGear)
Unlike typical homologation cars that often receive a more street-friendly setup, the R33 LM road car remained nearly identical to its racing counterpart. It retained the same RB26DETT engine, pushing out around 405 horsepower, while the interior was fitted with an Alcantara Nismo racing steering wheel and snug, checkered racing seats. Yet, despite these race-focused elements, Nissan made subtle modifications for road legality, including a slightly raised ride height and smaller wheels.
The Nissan GT-R R33 LM is now locked away in the Nissan Museum, a preserved symbol of a Godzilla built for battle but destined to remain behind glass. (Picture from: TopGear)
Once homologation was cleared, Nissan entered two R33 LM race cars in the 1995 Le Mans event. However, against formidable rivals like the McLaren F1 and Ferrari F40, the GT-R struggled. The number 22 car finished tenth overall and fifth in its class, while the number 23 car suffered gearbox failure and retired after 157 laps. The following year, Nissan returned with a more powerful R33 LM, but the rising dominance of the Porsche 911 GT1 led to the early cancellation of Nissan’s GT1 program. | ar7ZzHJId3g |
Despite its limited racing success, the Nissan GT-R Skyline R33 LM remains a crucial piece of Nissan’s motorsport history. It’s a machine that embodies Nissan’s determination to compete at the highest level, even if it meant creating a car that was never meant to be driven. Today, this unique road-going R33 LM is locked away in the Nissan Museum, preserved as a symbol of what could have been—a Godzilla built for battle but destined to remain behind glass, forever untamed. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TOP GEAR | HOTCARS ]
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With its innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and cultural symbolism, the GWM Souo S2000 is far more than just a motorcycle; it is a true statement. Although it is currently only available in China, excitement continues to grow around the idea of its potential release worldwide. For riders seeking exclusivity, power, and character all in one unforgettable package, the Souo S2000 could be the dream machine worth waiting for.
