Ælla-60: A Ferrari-Powered, Lightweight Manual Sports Car

Mechanical Purity - Amid the rise of high-tech supercars filled with touchscreens, AI assistance, and autonomous driving features, a counter-movement is growing. Enthusiasts long for the raw, mechanical joy of driving—a connection between car and driver that feels unfiltered by technology. Some manufacturers have responded by building brand-new analog-focused cars, while others have chosen to revive classics with a modern twist. One such creation is the Ælla-60, an extraordinary machine born from the vision of Anthony Jannarelly's Art Machines. It could be said that the car as unique as its name.

The Ælla-60 from Anthony Jannarelly's Art Machines is a retro sports car from France focusing on simplicity and purity. (Picture from: RobbReport)

Instead of designing a car from scratch, the Ælla-60 is built upon a proven platform—the Ferrari 360 Modena. While the original Modena was a well-loved sports car of its time, Jannarelly’s reinterpretation elevates its potential. The heart of the car remains the same: a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V-8, but it has been reworked to deliver 473 horsepower, channeling that power through a six-speed manual transmission. The result is a car that refuses to compromise, providing an immersive, hands-on driving experience that’s increasingly rare in today’s automated world.

The Ælla-60 is built upon a proven platform—the Ferrari 360 Modena, and a Jannarelly’s reinterpretation elevates its potential. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The Ælla-60’s design is an homage to the past, echoing the graceful lines of 1960s sports cars. This is a hallmark of Jannarelly’s work. The French designer has a history of blending modern engineering with vintage aesthetics, as seen in his 2016 creation, the Jannarelly Design-1. He later continued this theme with Caterham’s Project V concept in 2023, further establishing his reputation for capturing the essence of classic motoring. His influence even extends to the W Motors Lykan Hypersport, made famous for its gravity-defying leap between skyscrapers in Fast & Furious 7.

The Ælla-60 pays homage to 1960s sports cars with its graceful design while harnessing a reworked naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V-8 that delivers 473 hp through a six-speed manual transmission. (Picture from: RobbReport)

Though the Ferrari foundation remains, the Ælla-60 sheds unnecessary weight, tipping the scales at a mere 2,491 pounds dry. This, combined with its power boost, enables it to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds. However, its appeal isn’t just about speed—it’s about how it delivers that speed. With a lightweight chassis, a high-revving V-8, and a manual gearbox, the car is engineered to provide an exhilarating, tactile connection to the road.

The Ælla-60 embraces its retro-inspired philosophy while still incorporating essentials like air conditioning and phone connectivity, achieving a balance between classic simplicity and modern convenience. (Picture from: RobbReport)

Despite its retro-inspired philosophy, the Ælla-60 doesn’t entirely reject modernity. The interior is equipped with essentials like air conditioning and phone connectivity, striking a balance between classic simplicity and contemporary convenience. It ensures that while the car remains driver-focused, it is still usable beyond the racetrack.

The Ælla-60, limited to just 60 units, guarantees exclusivity and will be built by Podium Advanced Technologies, an Italian company renowned for its expertise in high-performance projects. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

With only 60 units planned for production, exclusivity is guaranteed. The car will be built by Podium Advanced Technologies, an Italian company with expertise in high-performance projects such as the SCG 004S and Lancia Delta Futurista. But this rare driving experience comes at a cost—nearly $900,000, with production set to begin in 2026. | boyJgDvmFBQ |

The Ælla-60 is more than just a modified Ferrari—it’s a declaration that pure driving enjoyment still has a place in the future. While the automotive world rushes toward automation, this machine stands defiantly in favor of the human element. It’s a rare breed, built for those who cherish the thrill of driving in its most unfiltered form. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ARTMACHINES.FR | CARANDDRIVER | ROBBREPORT | AUTOEXPRESS | HAGERTY ]

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Hofstetter Turbo: Brazil’s Italian-Inspired Sports Car Icon

Dream Realized - Brazil is widely celebrated for its vibrant culture, renowned sports talents, and natural beauty, but not many know that it also has a remarkable history in the automotive industry. Nestled among the giants of automotive production like the United States, Japan, and European nations, Brazil has quietly carved its niche. One shining example of this ingenuity is the Hofstetter, a sports car born from the dreams of a young visionary, Mario Richard Hofstetter. 

The Hofstetter Turbo is a sports car brought to life by the ambitious dreams of a young Brazilian visionary, Mario Richard Hofstetter. (Picture from: AutoEntusiastas)

Drawing inspiration from iconic Italian designs, the Hofstetter is a testament to Brazil’s ability to merge creativity with technical prowess. The story begins in the 1960s, when a young Mario Hofstetter first encountered the revolutionary Bertone Carabo at the 1968 Paris Motor Show. Its striking wedge-shaped design, coupled with the high-performance mechanics of the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, ignited his imagination. 

Mario Richard Hofstetter, a Brazilian visionary, successfully brought his dream car to life at a young age—a sports car that bore his name: the Hofstetter. (Picture from: Vimeo)

By the age of 15, his passion grew further after seeing Giorgetto Giugiaro’s Maserati Boomerang, which boasted bold innovations that influenced major automotive icons like the VW Passat, Lotus Esprit, and DeLorean DMC-12. Fascinated by these masterpieces, Mario resolved to build a sports car of his own, combining elements of these legendary designs with his unique vision.

The 1991 Hofstetter Turbo, featuring retractable headlights, was highlighted in a classic cars article in the September 2022 issue of 4 Rodas magazine. (Picture from: QuatroRodas)

Despite his limited resources and youthful inexperience, Mario embarked on his ambitious project in 1972 at just 16 years old. He sketched the blueprint for his dream car, and by the following year, with the help of a friend, began crafting a prototype using fiberglass composite. Skepticism from his father, Félix Hofstetter, only fueled Mario’s determination. By 1975, Mario had completed the car's body—a bold and futuristic shell that even his father could not ignore. Inspired by his son’s perseverance and skill, Félix decided to support the project.

The Hofstetter-Cortada, a striking representation of Brazilian automotive innovation, was prominently showcased at the XVI Salão do Automóvel in 1990. (Picture from: LexicaBrasil)

Progress was slow due to Mario's academic commitments and financial constraints, but his ingenuity kept the dream alive. To test his prototype, he acquired a Division 4 racing chassis and paired it with a Ford-Binno engine. While the early prototype proved challenging to drive, especially with its racing engine that was unsuited for everyday streets, it marked an important milestone. Encouraged by the potential of the design, Félix turned down offers from investors, choosing instead to keep the project within the family.

The Hofstetter Turbo was prominently showcased at the automaker's stand during the XIV Salão do Automóvel in 1986, attracting attention with its unique design and performance features. (Picture from: AutoEntusiastas)

By 1976, Mario had refined the prototype further. Using a tubular chassis, he incorporated components from established models like the VW Passat and Chevrolet Chevette. The car’s engine was mounted longitudinally for better weight distribution, and over the years, the mechanical setup evolved. In its production form, the Hofstetter featured a 1.8-liter VW Gol GT engine with a turbocharger, delivering around 140 horsepower. While modest by today’s standards, this performance was respectable for its era and complemented the car’s daring aesthetics.

The Hofstetter featured a tubular T-shaped chassis, designed to house a centrally positioned VW Gol GT's engine, optimizing balance and performance. (Picture from: AutoEntusiastas)

The Hofstetter was not just about performance—it was a showcase of innovative features that turned heads. Its gull wings-style doors operated electrically, a rarity for the time, while its retractable headlights and digital instrument panel added a futuristic flair. However, the car’s lack of conventional windows posed practical challenges, leading Mario to design a sliding panel in the acrylic window for external interactions like paying tolls. Despite these quirks, the Hofstetter’s unique design captivated automotive enthusiasts.

A Hofstetter Turbo, showcasing its striking gull-wing door dramatically open, is proudly displayed in the prestigious collection of the Automobile Museum of Canela (RS). (Picture from: LexicaBrasil)

Production began in earnest in 1986 at a small facility in São Paulo, where the first units were quickly sold. However, Brazil’s volatile economic climate of the 1980s disrupted the project’s momentum. Mario, now burdened with managing the family’s packaging business, shifted his focus. Even so, he continued to refine the car, eventually equipping it with a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine from the VW Santana. This upgrade boosted the car's torque and overall performance, making it even more appealing.

The 1987 Hofstetter Turbo, featuring a sleek rear spoiler and a small sliding window on the driver's side, exemplifies both innovation and style. (Picture from: LexicaBrasil)

Over its 18-year journey, the Hofstetter remained a labor of love rather than a commercial success. By the time production ceased in 1993, only 18 units had been made, each a testament to Mario’s passion and ingenuity. Today, Mario cherishes three pivotal models from the project: the original prototype, the first production unit, and the penultimate car. These vehicles are more than just sports cars—they represent a young dreamer’s ability to defy the odds and create something extraordinary.

The Hofstetter’s story is a powerful reminder of what determination and creativity can achieve, even in the face of skepticism and challenges. It stands as a piece of Brazilian automotive history, celebrating a nation’s ability to dream big and execute bold ideas. This legacy not only honors Mario Hofstetter’s unwavering vision but also cements Brazil’s place on the global stage of automotive innovation. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PISTONHEADS | AUTOENTUSIASTAS | QUATRORODAS | LEXICABRASIL | CARTEFACTS ]

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Unique Lamborghini Aventador Replica Built on Pontiac GTO

Weird ONES - The allure of supercars is undeniable, attracting interest from people across all financial backgrounds. For those with deep pockets, owning a supercar is achievable, but for those less financially fortunate, the dream remains just that—a dream. This is why many turn to the alternative of creating replicas.😀

This replica Lamborghini Aventador is built on a 5th-generation Pontiac GTO, which is based on the Holden Monaro produced from 2004 to 2006. (Picture from: Carscoops)

For example, since Lamborghini introduced the Aventador in 2011, numerous car enthusiasts have attempted to replicate it, driven by the desire to own a supercar, even if it’s just a replica. These efforts have varied in success, but one particular replica has recently gained attention for its unique combination of a supercharged V8 engine and an unexpected base vehicle.

The choice of a 5th-generation Pontiac GTO platform is unconventional, providing the vehicle with a distinctive edge over more common replicas. (Picture from: Carscoops)

This intriguing replica was recently highlighted by Carscoops and stands out due to its unusual origins. Instead of being based on the frequently used Pontiac Fiero, this replica Lamborghini Aventador is built on a 5th-generation Pontiac GTO, which itself is derived from the Holden Monaro produced between 2004 and 2006. This choice of platform is unconventional, giving the vehicle a distinctive edge compared to more common replicas.

This replica Lamborghini Aventador is powered by a supercharged LS V8, a formidable engine choice that promises significant performance. (Picture from: Carscoops)

A standout feature of this replica is its engine. As you can see, the car is powered by a supercharged LS V8, a formidable engine choice that promises significant performance. However, despite these intriguing elements, certain aspects of this replica raise concerns, as they may prioritize appearance over substance. The seller’s claims, such as the engine’s purported 900 horsepower, seem ambitious and warrant skepticism. Additionally, there’s mention of a “NOZ” bottle, appealing to street racing enthusiasts, but the authenticity and functionality of this feature are questionable.

The left-hand steering wheel position suggests that this vehicle was one of the Monaros sold in the United States as a Pontiac GTO. (Picture from: Carscoops)

The interior of the car also aims to impress. The dashboard hints at the car’s origins, retaining the familiar layout of the Holden Monaro’s interior, a detail that Australian car enthusiasts might instantly recognize. The left-hand steering wheel position suggests that this vehicle was one of the Monaros sold in the United States as a Pontiac GTO. The interior is equipped with a sat-nav system, a backup camera, and faux carbon fiber inserts on both the steering wheel and center console. Black and yellow leather seats enhance the visual appeal, while a removable roof transforms the car into a roadster, adding to its versatility and appeal for potential buyers.

The interior of this replica Lamborghini Aventador features a sat-nav system, a backup camera, faux carbon fiber inserts on the steering wheel and center console, and visually striking black and yellow leather seats. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Despite its flashy exterior, designed to mimic a Lamborghini Aventador, this replica might attract attention for all the wrong reasons. To the trained eye, the body panels reveal the car’s true nature, and anyone familiar with Lamborghini’s craftsmanship would likely see through the façade. Nevertheless, the seller insists that this replica is in excellent condition, describing it as the “cleanest, most beautiful tribute” available at its price point. Priced at $33,750, this imitation Lamborghini Aventador represents an intriguing blend of ambition and engineering.

Though this replica Lamborghini Aventador may excite some, it’s essential to approach such purchases with careful consideration. (Picture from: Carscoops)

While this replica Lamborghini Aventador might offer an exciting experience for some, it’s crucial to approach such purchases with careful consideration. The combination of a supercharged V8 engine, an unconventional base vehicle, and ambitious design makes this car an interesting project, but whether it can genuinely fulfill the dream of owning a Lamborghini remains uncertain.

The video below is for illustration purposes only and does not feature the unit being discussed.

For those interested in the unit being discussed, there is a caveat. The listing on eBay, which has since ended without a successful sale, suggested that the car's VIN might not match what was advertised—an important detail that potential buyers should verify if they encounter this listing again. *** [FROM VARIOU SOURCES | NEWS.COM.AU | CARSCOOPS | HERALDSUN | DRIVENCARGUIDE | THEDRIVE ]

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Cosmos V8 Muscle Bikes: The Ultimate Fusion of Power and Design

Mechanical Titan - The world of motorcycles has always been a showcase for engineering marvels, where innovation and creativity push the boundaries of design. While most motorcycles stick to a conventional two-wheeled structure, some break the mold entirely, blending power and uniqueness in ways rarely seen. One such machine is the Cosmos V8 Muscle Bike, a beastly creation that redefines the concept of a motorcycle. Combining automotive and motorcycle engineering, this remarkable vehicle is a true spectacle on the road, available in two stunning variants: the four-wheeled 4RWF and the more traditional two-wheeled 2RWF.

The 2010 Cosmos 4RWF and 2RWF V8 Muscle Bikes are extraordinary creations, designed by Brazilian engineer Amadeu Ferreira Junior in 2009. (Picture from: Bikez.net)

Conceived by Brazilian mechanical engineer Amadeu Ferreira Junior in 2009 and introduced in 2010, the Cosmos 4RWF V8 Muscle Bike is unlike anything most riders have ever seen, alongside its 2RWF sibling. However, here the focus is on the uniqueness of the four-wheeled variant, the 4RWF. At its heart lies a Chevy ZZ4 350-cubic-inch V8 engine, a powerhouse typically found in American muscle cars. This monstrous engine produces an astounding 355 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque, figures that rival some of the most powerful road machines. The idea of such a massive engine propelling a motorcycle might seem unbelievable, yet the Cosmos 4RWF V8 turns this vision into reality.

The 2010 Cosmos 4RWF and 2RWF V8 Muscle Bikes are extraordinary creations, designed by Brazilian engineer Amadeu Ferreira Junior in 2009. (Picture from: ZombieDriveMoto)

Given the sheer force behind this machine, a conventional motorcycle frame would not suffice. Instead, the Cosmos 4RWF V8 Muscle Bike features a robust chassis designed to handle its massive power output. To ensure stability and control, the bike is equipped with a three-speed transmission and a reverse gear, a necessary addition considering its 1,047-pound (475 kg) weight. Without it, maneuvering such a heavy bike would be a serious challenge.

The 2010 Cosmos 4RWF and 2RWF V8 Muscle Bikes feature a mono-block chassis, measuring 2.60 meters in length with a 0.9-meter frame. (Picture from: CoolThings)

One of the most striking aspects of this motorcycle is its four-wheel configuration. Unlike traditional motorcycles that rely on two wheels for balance, this machine features two closely positioned wheels in the front and two in the rear. This unique design provides superior stability, reducing the risk of tipping over despite its immense size. However, due to its width and weight, only riders with a strong physique and experience handling heavy bikes will be comfortable taking control of it.

The 2010 Cosmos 4RWF V8 Muscle Bike naturally invites comparisons to the legendary Dodge Tomahawk V10 Superbike, another machine that defies convention. (Picture from: RideMachine)

The presence of a 17-inch wheel setup adds to its dominant road presence. These wheels provide excellent grip and ensure that the bike maintains stability, even under the tremendous force generated by the V8 engine. The aggressive styling of the Cosmos 4RWF V8 Muscle Bike further enhances its status as a one-of-a-kind creation, making it a true head-turner wherever it appears.

The 2010 Cosmos 2RWF V8 Muscle Bike sports a mono-block chassis, with an overall length of 2.60 meters and a frame measuring 0.9 meters. (Picture from: MotorcycleSpecs)

This motorcycle inevitably draws comparisons to the legendary Dodge Tomahawk V10 Superbike, another machine that defies traditional expectations. Just like the Cosmos 4RWF V8, the Tomahawk features an oversized car engine—in this case, an 8.3L V10 from a Dodge Viper. Both machines represent the pinnacle of motorcycle-meets-muscle-car engineering, offering performance that borders on the absurd and a road presence that is simply unmatched.

The 2010 Cosmos 2RWF V8 Muscle Bike is an extraordinary creation, powered by a ZZ4 V8 engine, delivering an impressive 350 hp, the same powerhouse that drives its 4RWF sibling. (Picture from: MotorcycleSpecs)

For those intrigued by this engineering masterpiece, the price tag is as bold as the bike itself. The four-wheeled (4RWF) variant costs $93,200 (approximately Rp.1.22 billion), while a more traditional two-wheeled (2RWF) version is available for $82,100 (approximately Rp.1.07 billion). While these prices place the bike firmly in the luxury segment, they reflect its exclusivity and extraordinary design, making it a prized possession for enthusiasts who appreciate extreme motorcycles.

Both variants of the Cosmos V8 Muscle Bike are more than just motorcycles; they are mechanical statements, machines that refuse to conform to the norm. They embody the fusion of automotive power and motorcycle agility, delivering an experience that few other vehicles can match. In a world where innovation continues to blur the lines between different vehicle categories, these remarkable creations stand as proof that engineering knows no boundaries. Whether admired for their sheer audacity or technical brilliance, one thing is certain—these motorcycles will never be forgotten.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops.....*** [EKA [11032016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ULTIMATEMOTORCYCLE | MCS | RIDEMACHINE | COOLTHINGS | ZOMBIDRIVEMOTO | BIKEZ.NET | MOTORCYCLESPECS ]

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Toyota VM180 Zagato: Italian Style Meets Japanese Precision

Fusion Elegance - Many car enthusiasts around the globe often wonder about the results of collaborations between Japanese precision and Italian flair in the automotive world. The intersection of these two cultures, both rich in their respective automotive histories, has led to intriguing creations. Among these, one particular gem stands out—a roadster developed in the early 2000s, born from a unique partnership between Toyota and the renowned Italian coachbuilder Zagato. Despite its striking presence and innovative design, this car remains a lesser-known masterpiece, particularly outside of Japan.

The Toyota VM180 Zagato was a bold car creation based on the third-generation Toyota MR2 by the renowned Italian coachbuilder Zagato, limiting the car to a mere 100 units. (Picture from: Motor1)

The early 2000s marked a pivotal moment in global automotive trends, with Japan firmly establishing itself as a leader in economic and technological innovation. Japanese car manufacturers, driven by the country's economic strength and engineering expertise, sought to push boundaries in design and performance. 

The Toyota VM180 Zagato stood out with its striking three-tier headlights, subtle blue accents, and large air intakes, giving the front a polarizing look. (Picture from: Motor1)

Their eyes turned toward Europe, a region celebrated for its luxury and stylistic elegance, with Italy being a hub of automotive artistry. This backdrop set the stage for the Toyota-Zagato collaboration, an effort that not only honored the shared history of these two nations but also showcased the potential of blending technical precision with artistic freedom.

The Toyota VM180 Zagato featuring with two-tone leather seats in black and red, added a sense of luxury and sportiness. (Picture from: Motor1)

This collaboration was unveiled in Tokyo Motor Show in January 2001, with the debut of the Toyota VM180 Zagato. It was a bold creation based on the third-generation Toyota MR2, the car already respected for its lightweight agility and spirited performance. Zagato, a Milan-based design house famous for crafting iconic models for brands like Alfa Romeo and Aston Martin, was entrusted with transforming the MR2 into something truly extraordinary. The result was a limited-edition vehicle, produced exclusively for the Japanese market, that exuded a unique identity far removed from the original MR2’s design language.

The Toyota VM180 Zagato features a redesigned three-spoke steering wheel, complemented by a driver-focused dashboard with carefully placed instruments and gauges for a more engaging driving experience. (Picture from: Motor1)

The VM180 stood out visually, boasting design elements that immediately drew attention. The front featured distinctive three-tier headlights encased in a subtle blue accent, paired with large air intakes on the lower bumper that gave the car an aggressive stance. At the rear, the vertical taillights and a small diffuser flanked by a prominent exhaust outlet added to its dramatic appearance. While the car maintained the low-slung proportions of the MR2, its intricate details and reimagined styling elevated it into a realm of exclusivity.

The Toyota VM180 Zagato powered by a tuned 1.8-liter VVTi engine, capable of delivering 155 horsepower. (Picture from: Motor1)

The interior of the VM180 retained much of the original MR2's layout but incorporated thoughtful upgrades to align with its premium aspirations. Two-tone leather seats in black and red, alongside a redesigned steering wheel, added a sense of luxury and sportiness. These changes, while minimal, underscored the essence of the project: enhancing the MR2’s appeal without compromising its core identity. The blend of Japanese engineering and Zagato's design expertise culminated in a vehicle that was both visually striking and functionally precise.

The rear of the Toyota VM180 Zagato is highlighted by vertical taillights and a sleek, small diffuser, complemented by a prominent exhaust outlet, all contributing to its bold and dramatic appearance. (Picture from: Motor1)

Powering the VM180 was a tuned 1.8-liter VVTi engine, capable of delivering 155 horsepower. This setup ensured that the car not only looked the part but also performed with a zest befitting its sporty design. Built by Toyota Modellista International—hence the 'TMI' in its name—it was exclusively available in Japan, with only 100 units produced. Its rarity, combined with its distinctive aesthetics, made the VM180 a coveted gem among collectors in the Japanese market.

The Toyota VM180 Zagato represented a harmonious fusion of cultures, capturing the innovation and precision of Japanese manufacturing with the artistic audacity of Italian design. (Picture from: Motor1)

The VM180 represented a harmonious fusion of cultures, capturing the innovation and precision of Japanese manufacturing with the artistic audacity of Italian design. It wasn’t just a car; it was a celebration of what’s possible when two distinct approaches to automotive creation unite. For those fortunate enough to own or witness this collaboration, the VM180 remains a testament to the timeless allure of creativity and craftsmanship.

Reflecting on such collaborations, the VM180 serves as a reminder that the automotive world thrives on diversity and innovation. It shows how blending the best of different traditions can lead to extraordinary results. The story of the VM180 is not just about a car; it’s about the shared passion that drives the automotive industry forward, leaving an indelible mark on its history. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, it stands as an inspiring example of what can emerge when engineering precision meets artistic expression. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ULTIMATECARPAGE | MOTOR1 | FABWHEELDIGEST ]

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Shelby EXP500 Green Hornet: The Ultimate One-of-a-Kind Mustang

Special ONES - Shelby has long been synonymous with high-performance Mustangs, creating some of the most legendary muscle cars in automotive history, including the King of the Road, which we briefly discussed earlier. Among these, the Shelby EXP500 "Green Hornet" stands out as one of the rarest and most intriguing prototypes ever built. Unlike many other one-off concept cars that never made it past the design stage or were eventually scrapped, this unique Mustang managed to survive, gaining recognition as an irreplaceable piece of automotive heritage. Despite its historical significance and groundbreaking features for its time, the Green Hornet failed to find a buyer at Barrett-Jackson in early 2013, even with an astonishing bid of $1.8 million.😏

The Shelby EXP500 Green Hornet. (Picture from: AutoGuide)

The story of this car began when Ford initiated the development of a “California Special” Mustang to test the waters for a potential new model. This concept, built in notchback coupe form, was created to gauge public interest. However, Ford ultimately decided against moving forward with the project, and instead of discarding the prototype, the company sent it to Shelby American for further experimentation. At this point, the vehicle received an internal designation as EXP500 and became the personal project of Carroll Shelby and his chief engineer, Fred Goodell.

Left side view of the Shelby EXP500 Green Hornet. (Picture from: Hemmings)

Unlike the production Mustangs of the era, the Green Hornet was outfitted with several advanced features that were ahead of their time. It boasted an independent rear suspension, which was highly uncommon for American muscle cars in the 1960s, as most relied on solid rear axles. Another notable innovation was its four-wheel disc brake system, providing superior stopping power compared to the standard drum brakes found on most cars of its generation. Additionally, the Green Hornet was equipped with a Conelec fuel injection system, a rarity at a time when carburetors were the dominant choice for fuel delivery. These enhancements made it one of the most technologically advanced Mustangs of its era.

Interior view of the Shelby EXP500 Green Hornet. (Picture from: Hemmings)

Despite its innovations, the Green Hornet did not go into production, and after completing its testing phase, it was stripped of some of its unique components before being sent to Ford’s Employee and Auction Resale Lot. Typically, prototypes like this would have been destroyed, but in a stroke of luck, the Green Hornet managed to avoid that fate. Instead, it found its way into private ownership, where it remained hidden from the spotlight for years.

The Shelby EXP500 Green Hornet is powered by an experimental 428CJ fed via an experimental Conelec electronic fuel-injection unit. (Picture from: Hemmings)

The car eventually ended up with Robert Zdanowski, who later sold it to Don Darrow, a Ford dealer in Cheboygan, Michigan. At the time, Darrow was unaware of the true significance of the car and made modifications without realizing its historical value. It wasn’t until 1980 that his son came across a book by Paul Newitt, which detailed the unique history of the vehicle. This discovery led to the realization that their car was not just another Mustang, but a highly significant prototype.

Rear side view of the Shelby EXP500 Green Hornet. (Picture from: Hemmings)

After years of being under the radar, the Green Hornet was fully restored and reintroduced to the world in 2013, complete with a certificate of authenticity from Ford. However, despite its rarity and deep historical roots, it surprisingly failed to sell at auction. Perhaps the price tag was too high for potential buyers at the time, but given its status as a one-of-a-kind piece of automotive history, its value is unquestionable.

In 2019, the Green Hornet once again made an appearance, this time at the SEMA Show, where it was displayed alongside detailed documentation of its extensive restoration process. This provided enthusiasts and collectors with a deeper appreciation of its journey and the effort involved in preserving such an iconic vehicle. The fact that this Mustang still exists today, after narrowly avoiding destruction decades ago, makes it one of the most fascinating survivors in the world of classic muscle cars. *** [EKA [09072015,12022022] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BARRET-JACKSON | AUTOGUIDE | FOXNEWS | AUTOBLOG] | HEMMINGS ]

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