Stalled Ambition - Every era in automotive history has its nearly forgotten experiments—machines envisioned to redefine performance yet overshadowed by forces beyond engineering. The Porsche 965 belongs to that elusive category, a car conceived during a period of bold imagination and economic uncertainty. While modern performance cars wear their innovation openly, the 965 exists more like an echo of what might have been, created at a time when Porsche was trying to bridge its storied past with an increasingly complex future.
The 1988 Porsche 965 Prototype exists more like an echo of what might have been, created at a time when Porsche was trying to bridge its storied past with an increasingly complex future. (Picture from: WhichCar.au)
The project began in the early 1980s, when Porsche sought a successor to the 911 Turbo that could sit confidently above the upcoming 964 Carrera. The idea was to take everything learned from the technologically advanced 959—its twin-turbo philosophy, water-cooled four-valve heads, adaptive suspension, and even the possibility of a dual-clutch transmission—and reinterpret those ideas into something more attainable. The planned design resembled a more modern, streamlined evolution of the 959, carrying hints of its silhouette but shaped with a clear priority on cost efficiency rather than extravagance.
The 1988 Porsche 965 Prototype was designed to share its chassis and floorpan with the concurrently developed 964 to keep development grounded and costs under control. (Picture from: StittCars)
Under the skin, engineers aimed for a 3.5-liter twin-turbo flat-six producing around 365 horsepower, making the car both powerful and practical. To keep development grounded, it would share its chassis and floorpan withthe 964, which was being developed in parallel. For a brief moment, everything appeared to move smoothly. Porsche had found a sweet spot between performance ambition and production feasibility, crafting a car that promised cutting-edge capability without stepping into 959 territory.
The 1988 Porsche 965 Prototype powered by a water-cooled Audi V8 mounted in the rear. (Picture from: VintageEuropean in Facebook)
Then reality arrived in the form of engineering roadblocks. The original 3.5-liter engine couldn’t deliver the expected power, and unlike the 959, the 965 wasn’t allowed access to expensive race-derived components. This forced the team to explore alternatives, including a turbocharged V6 derived from Hans Mezger’s Indy racing V8 and even an all-new V8 intended to be shared withthe ill-fated 989 saloon project. The most viable solution turned out to be a water-cooled Audi V8 mounted in the rear—a pragmatic choice that aligned with budget constraints while providing the necessary output.
The 1988 Porsche 965 Prototype was envisioned with a more modern, streamlined evolution of the 959’s design, echoing its silhouette while prioritizing cost efficiency over extravagance.(Picture from: WhichCar.au)
Just as the technical challenges piled up, the global financial crash of 1987 hit Porsche hard. The market for a pricier, more experimental 911 evaporated almost instantly. The company tightened spending, shelved speculative programs, and reluctantly scaled back the 965’s ambitions. Engineers had to abandon the fully water-cooled flat-six concept in favor of repurposing the existing Turbo motor, a compromise that undermined the very innovation the project had been built upon. By 1988, the 965 was no longer viable, and the program was canceled.
The 1988 Porsche 965 Prototype survives today in the Porsche Museum, powered by an Audi V8 and standing as the sole physical reminder of what the project might have become.(Picture from: VintageEuropean in Facebook)
Sixteen prototypes had been completed during development, but fifteen were destroyed after the project’s termination. The lone survivor—powered by the Audi V8—now rests in the Porsche Museum as the only physical reminder of whatthe 965 could have been. Its legacy, however, continued in less visible ways. The lessons learned during its development influenced Porsche’s gradual shift toward water-cooled engines and informed technological decisions in the evolution of later 911 models. Even the creation of the 964 Turbo—rushed into production after the 965’s cancellation—was shaped directly by this abandoned project. | SHBEEiXTL0U |
Today, the 965 occupies a curious but meaningful corner of Porsche lore. It’s often misunderstood, with some enthusiasts mistakenly associating its designation with the 3.6-liter 1994 911 Turbo, which actually belongs to the 964 series. The real 965, though never sold, represents a moment when Porsche dared to imagine a technologically advanced future under tight constraints. Its story still resonates because it reflects the tension between innovation and practicality—proof that even the prototypes that never make it to the road can leave a lasting imprint on a brand’s identity. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | STUTTCARS | WHICHCAR.AU | VINTAGE EUROPEAN IN FACEBOOK ]
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Hidden Thrillcraft - Racing culture is full of unexpected corners where fascinating machines quietly exist beyond mainstream attention, and Japan has always excelled at nurturing these niche worlds. Among them is a series that surfaced in the early 2010s with an unusually bold approach: instead of relying on familiar production cars, it introduced a purpose-built machine crafted solely for competition. That choice set the Inter Proto Race Series apart from the moment it arrived, even if most enthusiasts outside Japan never realized it existed.
The Inter Proto Kuruma. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)
Established in 2013, the series invited both seasoned professionals and gentleman drivers to challenge each other on legendary Japanese circuits under truly equal conditions. Achieving that competitive balance required more than choosing a common platform—it required creating one. The organizers commissioned their own dedicated race car, ultimately known as the Inter Proto Kuruma, built not from any road-going template but entirely from scratch to deliver a pure and consistent driving experience.
The Inter Proto Kuruma. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)
The engineering behind the Kurumareflects a commitment to straightforward performance. It features a carbon-fiber monocoque for rigidity and lightness, a naturally aspirated V6 producing 335 horsepower, and a sequential transmission designed for quick, purposeful shifts. Every element of the car exists for the track, from its tightly focused mechanical setup to the way its structure prioritizes responsiveness over comfort. Yet despite its racing intentions, the car visually reads as far more approachable than most dedicated competition machines.
The Inter Proto Kuruma. (Picture from: RoadAndTrack)
Unlike many modern race cars covered in wings, vents, and aggressively sculpted aerodynamics, the Kuruma carries a subtle exterior that almost echoes the proportions of a street car. Its smooth bodywork and minimal aero details make it look like something that might slip into traffic unnoticed—at least until the engine fires and the illusion is broken. A road-legal version was never produced, leaving fans to imagine what it might have been like to drive such a balanced, lightweight machine beyond track boundaries. | s_dIGTW_qWI |
When it debuted in 2012, Japan’s iconic automotive program Best Motoring offered a rare deep look at the Kuruma, walking through its design and capturing onboard footage that revealed just how lively and communicative it could be in motion. Today, the car stands as a snapshot of a time when the idea of building a bespoke one-make racer still felt daring and personal. Even as modern motorsport trends toward electrification and aerodynamic complexity, the Inter Proto Kuruma remains a reminder of how compelling a simple, focused machine can be—an obscure but captivating piece of Japan’s racing landscape. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ROADANDTRACK ]
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Ferrari-Fused Fury - It’s funny how, in a world now dominated by silent EVs and digital dashboards, some of the most unforgettable cars were the ones that looked almost toy-sized yet carried the heart of a racing machine. The Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari is a perfect example of that charming contradiction—a tiny hatchback introduced in 2009 that somehow managed to channel the swagger and intensity of far bigger performance legends. It emerged during a time when collaborations between brands felt more personal, and this partnership between Abarth and Ferrari produced a car that was small in footprint but enormous in attitude.
The Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari, a tiny hatchback introduced in 2009, was built to honor the collaboration between the two brands and managed to channel the swagger and intensity of far larger performance legends.(Picture from: ClassicDriver)
The bond between the two marques didn’t appear overnight. Their histories had crossed decades earlier, including the 1953 Ferrari 166/250 MM Abarth, a one-off racer that competed in major events like the Mille Miglia. Carlo Abarth and Enzo Ferrari themselves shared similar journeys as drivers who became tuners and eventually built racing empires. In the years leading up to the Tributo Ferrari’s debut, the relationship grew even stronger—Ferrari’s European dealers even usedcustomized Abarth 500s as courtesy vehicles, setting the stage for a more ambitious collaboration that would soon follow.
The Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari’s interior adopts an elegant, Ferrari-inspired layout and features Sabelt’s black-leather Abarth Corsa seats that hold the driver securely. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
That ambition took shape underthe 695 Tributo Ferrari’shood, where Abarth extracted over 180 horsepower from a 1.4-liter Turbo T-Jet engine. The power surge transformed the compact chassis into something genuinely mischievous, especially when paired with an MTA paddle-shift transmission inspired by contemporary performance technology. Matching the upgraded engine were reinforced brakes, sharpened suspension tuning, and 17-inch wheels modeled after Ferrari designs, complete with performance tires that helped the car punch well above its weight.
The Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari combined a steering wheel with red inserts and a tricolour hub with a Ferrari-inspired Jaeger display, while aluminum footwell plates and Scorpion-badged pedals added a motorsport edge that matched its performance. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
The mechanical setup was further elevated by the Record Monza exhaust system, which came alive past 3000 rpm and unleashed a sharper, more assertive tone that fit the car’s hyperactive spirit. Paired with its strengthened brakes, retuned suspension, and Ferrari-inspired 17-inch wheels wrapped in performance tires, the 695 Tributo Ferrari delivered a driving character that felt intentionally dialed-in. Every component seemed chosen to make the compact hatchback behave like something far more serious, turning ordinary streets into a playground for anyone behind the wheel.
The Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari packs over 180 horsepower from its 1.4-liter Turbo T-Jet engine paired with an MTA paddle-shift transmission, complemented by reinforced brakes, sharpened suspension tuning, and 17-inch wheels modeled after Ferrari designs. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
That same focused energy carried through its design. Abarth coated the exterior in striking Scuderia Red, complemented by carbon-fiber mirrors and Racing Grey accents along the wheels and rear air intakes, giving the car a presence that immediately separated it from everyday city traffic. Inside, the atmosphere grew even more intense: Sabelt’s black-leather Abarth Corsa seats gripped the driver securely, while a steering wheel with red inserts and a tricolour hub emphasized its Italian identity. The Jaeger-designed instrument display nodded to Ferrari’s own layout, and the aluminum footwell plates with Scorpion-badged racing pedals added a motorsport edge rarely found in a car this size—making the interior feel as purposeful as its performance. | H3PX-vbUd4k |
Seen from today’s perspective, the Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari feels like a celebration of passion-driven engineering—an era when brands built fun, characterful machines not because the market demanded them, but because they believed in them. It proved that performance isn’t always about size or headline numbers, and that even a compact hatchback can carry the DNA of giants. In a landscape now shaped by technology and efficiency, this little firecracker remains a reminder of how thrilling a car can be when it blends heritage, boldness, and a dash of unapologetic eccentricity. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER | PISTONHEADS ]
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Beyond Imagination - There’s a certain thrill in seeing something ordinary evolve into a creation that silences a room—not by force, but by presence. That sense of quiet astonishment frames the story of the Stiletto Dagger, a futuristic custom motorcycle that stands confidently behind spotlights and cameras without needing to scream for attention. Built through a collaboration between Andika Pratama of Krom Works and Rizaldi Parani, the machine was conceived from a shared desire to merge engineering discipline, contemporary art, and a matured sense of design. What makes it even more compelling is its foundation: the engine of a 1990s Honda Supra 125, an everyday Indonesian motorcycle known for its simplicity. Instead of traveling the predictable route of aftermarket additions, the project intentionally chose the difficult path—transforming something modest into something extraordinary through coachbuilt engineering and unrelenting craftsmanship.
The Stiletto Dagger, a futuristic custom motorcycle that commands quiet attention, was created by Krom Works and Rizaldi Parani to unite engineering precision with contemporary artistic vision. (Picture from: Kromworks in Instagram)
Every inch of the Stiletto Dagger’s body reflects this commitment. The entire exterior is shaped from mirror-polished 315 stainless steel, not simply filed smooth but painstakingly forged, hammered, curved, and remeasured again and again to achieve a perfectly symmetrical form. This level of metal shaping demands an endurance few builders are willing to invest in. The redesigned rigid frame, reworked geometry, foot controls, headlight housing, brackets, and even the tiniest aesthetic accents are all handcrafted, not mass-produced. The result is a silhouette both sleek and sharp, projecting a futuristic aura while still honoring the timeless artistry of classic metalwork—its curves flowing like a blade slicing through wind. As Andika notes, the entire process required long hours, patience, and intricate workmanship to channel the wild imagination he shares with Rizaldi.
The Stiletto Dagger posed with its creators, Krom Works’ Andika Pratama and Rizaldi Parani, at Kustomfest 2025 in Yogyakarta. (Picture from: Jogja.Viva.co.id)
That boldness carries through beneath the polished surface as well. Inside the elegant stainless shell lies a surprising mechanical heart: two 1990s Honda Supra 125 engines installed horizontally with a dual-crankcase configuration, creating not only two cylinders but essentially two engines working as one. Rizaldi purchased the original engine in 2020, but when the pandemic hit, progress slowed and the machine evolved gradually with patience. Only in early 2025 did construction accelerate to prepare it for Kustomfest 2025. The unusual twin-engine setup produces stronger performance and a powerful sound while maintaining the machine’s modest overall proportions, reinforcing the project’s philosophy of subtlety on the outside and daring innovation within.
The Stiletto Dagger carries that boldness beneath its polished surface, housing two horizontally mounted 1990s Honda Supra 125 engines in a dual-crankcase setup that allows both units to operate as one. (Picture from: Kromworks in Instagram)
Its name reflects this duality with precision. “Stiletto” evokes the sleek, elegant shape of high-heeled footwear—an image of clean lines, precision, and controlled beauty. Meanwhile, “Dagger” references the narrow, ancient European blade symbolizing bravery, sharpness, and the will to break through convention. Combined, the name Stiletto Dagger captures the motorcycle’s identity: refined yet assertive, elegant yet brave enough to challenge established norms in custom culture. Rizaldi himself chose the name, believing it encapsulated the philosophy behind the motorcycle while aligning with the design and dimensions envisioned by Andika. Through the naming alone, the machine gains a personality as defined as its physical form.
The Stiletto Dagger uses its unusual twin-engine setup to deliver stronger performance and a powerful sound while preserving its modest proportions, embodying subtlety outside and bold innovation within. (Picture from: Kromworks in Instagram)
Rizaldi’s role in the story extends far beyond naming the motorcycle. As a Communication Studies lecturer at Pelita Harapan University (UPH) and Chairman of the Motorcycle and Car Modification Commission within the Indonesian Motor Association (IMI), he balances passion, legality, and the future of Indonesia’s automotive industry. His daily work involves engaging with builders, regulators, creative workers, and communities, positioning him not merely as an observer but as a connector—someone who strengthens the ecosystem of Indonesian custom culture. The Stiletto Dagger reflects this part of him: willing to “format” when needed, yet quietly pushing boundaries. He credits the Indonesian Attack Kustomfest program and the support of Director Lulut for propelling the project sharply upward, marking a turning point in the rise of Indonesia’s custom scene on the international stage.
The Stiletto Dagger attended the Hot Rod Custom Show 2025 in Yokohama, Japan, a global center for custom culture where craftsmanship, innovation, and aesthetic integrity are judged at the highest level. (Picture from: NMAA.co.id)
When the Stiletto Dagger finally appeared at Kustomfest 2025, it didn’t just draw attention—it reshaped the conversation. Builders, judges, and spectators recognized immediately that this was more than an experiment; it was a statement. Its impact was confirmed when it won Champion Nitro Head FFA at Kustomfest 2025 in Yogyakarta. That triumph granted it the opportunity to appear at the Hot Rod Custom Show 2025 in Yokohama, Japan, a global center for custom culture where craftsmanship, innovation, and aesthetic integrity are judged at the highest level.
The Stiletto Dagger earned the Best Motorcycle Domestic award at HRCS 2025 in Yokohama, Japan, where it stood proudly alongside its owner, Rizaldi Parani. (Picture from: NMAA.co.id)
There, among world-class creations, the Stiletto Daggerearned Best
Motorcycle Domestic—an award reserved for motorcycles powered by
Japanese-made engines. The win brought honor to Indonesia, and at that
moment, the machine no longer belonged solely to Rizaldi or Krom Works;
it became a symbol of Indonesia’s growing presence in the global custom
motorcycle world. Its legacy reaches well beyond accolades. The Stiletto Daggerstands as a benchmark proving that, in the right hands, the ordinary can transform into the extraordinary. It marks a journey from a simple workshop to an international stage, from a quiet idea to a celebrated reality. The motorcycle embodies elegance and precision intertwined with courage and creativity, leaving a mark not through noise but through undeniable presence.
Looking at it feels less like observing a machine and more like witnessing avant-garde art that happens to move—art that questions assumptions, challenges traditions, and reminds modern audiences that visionary craftsmanship still has room to thrive. Because ultimately, the Stiletto Dagger exists not for speed or utility, but for intention, perseverance, and the boldness to create something that has no reason to exist other than the fact that it must.
Effortless Velocity - When a brand long celebrated for refined luxury enters the high-octane world of supercars, it immediately draws attention. Genesis, known for its elegant and serene sedans, made a bold statement with the Magma GT Concept—a car that signals the company’s future in high-performance vehicles. As Genesis’ first true sports car, it represents a daring leap into the luxury performance segment while staying true to the brand’s philosophy of balance and refinement.
The Genesis Magma GT, as the company’ first true sports car, it represents a daring leap into the luxury performance segment while staying true to the brand’s philosophy of balance and refinement. (Picture from: TopGear)
The Magma GT Concept prioritizes connection and composure over raw aggression. Genesis calls this philosophy “Effortless Performance,” delivering V8 power smoothly, predictably, and elegantly. Rather than testing the driver, it enhances skill, making every turn and acceleration feel controlled and natural. This approach positions the Magma GT as a halo model that will guide Genesis’ performance identity for the next decade. | ipOONWEtIA8 |
Its exterior is a deliberate blend of function and style. The low hood and long, sloping roofline create an aerodynamic, aggressive silhouette, while wide rear fenders and a tapering, boat-tailed cabin reinforce its planted stance. Subtle canards integrated into the headlights and the G-Matrix front pattern provide both aerodynamic efficiency and visual distinction. At the rear, two-line mechanical taillights highlight a wide, athletic stance, merging racing intent with Genesis’ signature luxury refinement.
The Genesis Magma GT presents a deliberate fusion of function and style, defined by a low hood and a long, sloping roofline that create an aerodynamic and assertive silhouette. (Picture from: TopGear)
Beneath its sculpted body lies serious performance ambition. The mid-rear engine layout signals readiness for GT racing, elevating Genesis from luxury comfort to motorsport territory. Unveiled at Hyundai Motor Company Investor Day in New York alongside the GMR-001 hypercar for Le Mans, and then whipped the covers off the production-spec GV60 Magma. The Magma GT stands as both a showcase of design and a blueprint for the brand’s high-performance future.
The Genesis Magma GT Concept features wide rear fenders and a tapering, boat-tailed cabin that visually lower the car, reinforcing its planted stance and high-speed stability. (Picture from: TopGear)
Genesis is redefining itself, bringing speed, handling, and racing pedigree into harmony with sophistication. The Magma GT embodies a rare duality: thrilling yet refined, powerful yet poised. It represents a vision for the next decade where high-performance vehicles do not sacrifice elegance for speed, reflecting modern automotive ambitions and Genesis’ commitment to innovation.
The Genesis Magma GT Concept also points toward the Magma Roadster, which is being prepared as one of several supercar variants when the model enters production in the coming years. (Picture from: Autocar)
The Magma GT will expand into a full lineup of variants, including a drop-top and a hardcore GT3 road car. WhileGT3homologation rules require only 250 road-legal units, Genesis plans a larger production run. Creative director Luc Donckerwolke confirmed that the version unveiled is just the “base model,” withS, GTS, roadster, lightweight, club sport, GT3 road car, and GT3 R track variants planned, offering customers diverse combinations of performance and luxury.
The Genesis Magma GT Concept is further illustrated by a Magma GT3 rendering created by Autocar, offering a glimpse of a potential track-focused variant.(Picture from: Autocar)
While the concept features a V8 engine, the final production powertrain is yet to be decided, influenced by customer demand and GT3 requirements. Donckerwolke emphasized that while the lineup may draw comparisons to the Porsche 911, it is not a direct rival. With unique design, engineering, and Genesis’ signature refinement, the Magma GT family will carve its own identity in the supercar world—a confident and composed vision of performance for the modern era. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TOPGEAR | AUTOCAR ]
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Nordic Daring - Long before today’s carmakers began experimenting boldly with lightweight materials and alternative engineering ideas, a small group tucked away in the forests of Telemark tried to rewrite what a Scandinavian sports car could be. It was a time when Europe was rebuilding its confidence as much as its infrastructure, and when every new invention seemed to carry the hope of something larger. Against this shifting backdrop, an unconventional white coupé rolled out of a modest Norwegian workshop, carrying ambitions far greater than its small footprint suggested. This was the Troll 700 Sportscoupe—often described, half in admiration and half in curiosity, as “the Norwegian Porsche”—a machine that embodied both the daring and the fragility of innovation in the late 1950s.
The 1957 Troll 700 Sportscoupé—long viewed with equal parts admiration and curiosity as “the Norwegian Porsche”—captured the bold ambition and delicate uncertainty that defined automotive innovation in the late 1950s. (Picture from: ViaRetro)
The idea sprang from the mind of Per Kohl-Larsen, a man who had made his fortune not in engineering but in the coffee trade in Africa. Prosperity gave him freedom, and freedom, in his case, fueled a desire to transform Norway from a country that imported cars into one that created them. The company he founded, bearing the literal and slightly eccentric name “Plastik & Bilindustri,” reflected both his practicality and his sense of experimentation. Working alongside two engineers—Germany’s Bruno Falck and Norway’s own Erling Fjugstad—he set out to build a coupé that would stand apart not through brute force or extravagance, but through modern materials, smart engineering, and the optimism of an industry entering a new era.
The Troll 700 Sportscoupé emerged from Plastik & Bilindustri’s brief 1957–1958 venture, developed in close collaboration with German engineer Bruno Falck and Norwegian engineer Erling Fjugstad. (Picture from: Automovelantigo in Facebook)
Fiberglass became the signature of their approach. At a time when steel still dominated production lines but manufacturers worldwide were eyeing new composites, the Troll’s lightweight body was both forward-thinking and economically strategic. Keeping the car under 700 kilograms wasn’t just an engineering brag—it meant agility, lower production costs, and the possibility of scaling manufacturing even as the continent was still recovering from wartime scarcity. Chevrolet’s Corvette had already showcased fiberglass overseas, but in Europe the trend was far from mainstream. Most fiberglass-bodied attempts were hobbyist kits built atop aging mechanical foundations. Kohl-Larsen intended the exact opposite: a modern, mass-producible vehicle that demonstrated Norway’s ability to think—and build—fresh.
The Troll 700 Sportscoupé ultimately existed in only five examples—tangible reminders of what the project could have become—while leaving Kohl-Larsen and his family facing severe financial ruin. (Picture from: ViaRetro)
The mechanical heart ofthe Trollcame from a perhaps unlikely source: the remains of a bankrupt German manufacturer. Gutbrod-Werke, despite closing its doors, left behind a remarkable piece of engineering—a 700cc two-stroke, two-cylinder engine equipped with Bosch fuel injection. For the period, this setup was surprisingly advanced, even a little futuristic, and perfectly in tune with the Troll team’s belief in new technology. Yet for all its sophistication, it eked out only 26 horsepower, and its injection system soon proved temperamental. The team briefly considered replacing it with SAAB’s three-cylinder two-stroke powerplant, a solution just across the border, but the plan never evolved beyond internal discussions.
The 1957 Troll 700 Sportscoupé showcased a fiberglass-first approach at a moment when steel still dominated, giving its lightweight body a modern and cost-efficient edge. (Picture from: En.TerjeBjornStad)
Still, the Troll’s creators worked resourcefully with what they had. They purchased Gutbrod’s Superior chassis to pair with the fiberglass body, even when the dimensions didn’t match. Instead of redesigning the entire structure, they simply extended the body by fifteen centimeters—an adjustment that unexpectedly added a small rear seat. It was a practical compromise wrapped in quiet ingenuity, a hallmark of the entire project. By the time they presented the first fully realized car to the press in October 1956, the Troll 700 Sportscoupe had taken on a personality of its own: compact yet expressive, simple yet strangely elegant, shaped by curved fiberglass panels that gave it a lightness familiar to sports cars but uncommon among those from the north.
The 1957 Troll 700 Sportscoupé relied on an unexpectedly sourced mechanical heart—a 700cc two-stroke, two-cylinder engine with Bosch fuel injection salvaged from the bankrupt German manufacturer Gutbrod-Werke. (Picture from: En.TerjeBjornStad)
On May 1, 1957, the first customer took delivery of a Troll, and for a moment, it looked as though the dream of a Norwegian car industry might actually ignite. But dreams, especially industrial ones, collide not just with engineering challenges but with politics. To begin mass production, “Plastik & Bilindustri” needed formal approval from the Norwegian government—approval that never came. Behind the scenes, the issue had little to do with the car’s technical merits and everything to do with international trade. Norway was exporting enormous quantities of fish meal and fish products to the Eastern Bloc, and in exchange, importing cars from those same nations. Allowing domestic automobile production to expand risked upsetting that delicate balance. In a twist almost too bureaucratic to seem real, the Troll’s success threatened to jeopardize national economics tied to fish. And so the government hesitated, stalled, and ultimately withheld the essential authorization.
The Troll 700 Sportscoupé reveals its smooth, sculpted lines and compact stance, capturing the car’s uniquely Norwegian blend of minimalist design and unconventional charm. (Picture from: ViaRetro)
The delay proved fatal. Without the green light to scale production, the company had no income, no investors willing to take on prolonged uncertainty, and no safety net. By 1958, the workshop fell silent. Only fiveTroll Sportscoupeshad been built—five physical proofs of what might have been—and the financial fallout was devastating for Kohl-Larsen and his family. What remained was not a thriving industry but a story: a small, determined attempt to carve space for Norwegian creativity in the global automotive landscape, overshadowed by geopolitics and the unforgiving realities of manufacturing.
The Troll 700 Sportscoupé displays its distinctive teardrop-shaped rear and expansive wraparound window, highlighting the quirky aerodynamic vision behind Norway’s rare fiberglass experiment. (Picture from: En.TerjeBjornStad)
Today, the Troll 700 Sportscoupe lives on mostly in quiet admiration among enthusiasts and historians who appreciate the boldness behind its existence. It represents a moment when a handful of innovators believed Norway could produce more than raw materials and seafood exports, when fiberglass bodies and unconventional engines felt like the keys to a new path forward. More than its horsepower or production numbers, the car symbolizes the thrill and vulnerability of trying something new in a world not yet ready to support it. And it invites the lingering, almost playful question: if the political winds had blown differently, would Scandinavia’s most iconic sports car today be wearing a very different badge? *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VIARETRO | EN.TERJEBJORNSTAD | AUTOMOVELANTIGO IN FACEBOOK ]
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Velvet Thunder - There’s something magical about cars that dare to be different — vehicles that break away from convention, not because they have to, but because someone believed they could. The late 1980s was a decade bursting with individuality, where design was bold, and engineers weren’t afraid to mix nostalgia with modern flair. Among the handful of creators who thrived in that creative tension stood Ron Sparks — a man whose imagination refused to fit inside the box of mass production. From his workshop in San Marcos, California, Sparks dreamed up a machine that embodied both elegance and eccentricity: the Sparks Pegasus Cabriolet.
The Sparks Pegasus Cabriolet emerged from a vision to fuse American muscle with the romantic spirit of a European grand tourer, brought to life by Intercontinental Carriage, Inc. (Picture from: WorldCarsFromThe1930sTo1980s in Facebook)
Born from a desire to merge American muscle with the romantic flair of a European grand tourer, the Pegasus Cabriolet was a rare creation, crafted under the banner of Intercontinental Carriage, Inc.Its design took cues from Sparks’ earlier ventures — the Sparks Turbo Phaeton and the Sparks II Roadster — cars that flirted with neo-classic design in the late 1970s and early ’80s. But the Pegasus Cabriolet wasn’t just a revival of those ideas; it was a transformation. Built between 1989 and 1993, it represented one of the most obscure yet fascinating reinterpretations of the Ford Mustang platform, specifically the Fox Body Mustang — a staple of American automotive culture at the time.
The Sparks Pegasus Cabriolet borrowed cues from Sparks’ earlier neo-classic models but reshaped them into a distinctly new creation.(Picture from: ClassicCars)
Under its sculpted hood sat a 5.0-liter V8 engine, the same heart that powered Ford’s own performance cars of the era. It produced 225 horsepower — more than enough to make the Pegasus roar down the open highway with authority. The power could be channeled through either a five-speed manual transmission for purists or an automatic overdrive for those who preferred their drive effortless. Beneath its striking exterior, the car carried a Ford LTD chassis, a solid foundation that offered both strength and adaptability. Sparks’ engineering approach was inventive — a blend of existing Ford components fused with custom craftsmanship.
The Sparks Pegasus Cabriolet gained its distinctive visual character through Alain Clenet’s artistic touch, which refined Sparks’ mechanical vision with the elegance it deserved.(Picture from: Aiden Jewell in Flickr)
What made the Pegasus Cabriolet truly captivating, however, was its design language. The vehicle wore its personality openly: a mix of retro romance and futuristic bravado. Its sweeping lines and wide fenders exuded the confidence of classic luxury cars, while details like the real wire wheels and wide whitewall tires paid homage to the golden era of motoring. The use of iron and plastic body panels gave it structure and style, while the doors — borrowed intriguingly from the Volkswagen Cabriolet — added an unexpected European twist. Inside, the car continued its balancing act between opulence and practicality. White leather seats, power accessories, a convertible top, and a stereo with a CD player (a luxury touch for the time) gave it the comfort of a grand cruiser, yet it still held the soul of a performance-oriented Mustang beneath its tailored suit.
The Sparks Pegasus Cabriolet showcased a confident mix of retro charm and modern flair with sweeping lines, wide fenders, wire wheels, whitewall tires, mixed metal-and-plastic panels, and Volkswagen Cabriolet doors that lent it a subtle European twist.(Picture from: WorldCarsFromThe1930sTo1980s in Facebook)
Only three examples ofthe Sparks Cabrioletwere ever built, and that exclusivity makes it as much a piece of art as it is a car. One of these was Ron Sparks’ personal vehicle — a testament to how deeply personal the project was to its creator. Sparks Motorworks, the division responsible for its construction, treated each build like a handcrafted masterpiece rather than a product. It wasn’t about mass appeal; it was about passion, design, and the joy of making something unique in a world that often prizes repetition.
The Sparks Pegasus Cabriolet combined white leather seating, power features, a convertible top, and a then-premium CD stereo to deliver grand-cruiser comfort while retaining the spirit of a performance-driven Mustang beneath its refined exterior.(Picture from: ClassicCars)
Behind the design was another familiar name for aficionados of custom automobiles: Alain Clenet. Known for his artistic approach to vehicle styling, Clenet brought his distinct aesthetic sensibility to the Pegasus, enhancing Sparks’ mechanical vision with the visual grace it deserved. Together, Sparks and Clenet created something that bridged continents — a car born in California but infused with the spirit of European coachbuilding.
The
Sparks Pegasus Cabriolet carried a 5.0-liter V8 producing 225
horsepower— the same powerhouse found in Ford’s performance cars of its
era—giving it the authority to roar down the open highway.(Picture from: ClassicCars)
Today, the Sparks Pegasus Cabriolet feels almost mythical. In an age dominated by high-tech electric vehicles and algorithm-driven design, it stands as a reminder of a more romantic automotive era — one when individuality and craftsmanship were enough to make a car legendary. It may not have been produced in great numbers, nor did it chase mainstream success, but that was never the point. Its rarity is its essence; its existence, a whisper of a time when builders poured their identity into metal and chrome.
The Sparks Pegasus Cabriolet blended Sparks’ mechanical vision with Alain Clenet’s refined aesthetic touch, resulting in a California-built car infused with the spirit of European coachbuilding.(Picture from: WorldCarsFromThe1930sTo1980s in Facebook)
Every once in a while, a car comes along that doesn’t just transport people — it transports ideas, emotions, and memories of what driving used to mean. The Sparks Pegasus Cabriolet is one of those cars. It’s less a machine and more a signature — Ron Sparks’ signature — written in steel, leather, and horsepower. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AIDEN JEWELL IN FLICKR | CLASSICCARS | DRIVE2.RU | WORLD CARS FROM THE 1930S TO 1980S IN FACEBOOK | PINTEREST ]
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Today, the 965 occupies a curious but meaningful corner of Porsche lore. It’s often misunderstood, with some enthusiasts mistakenly associating its designation with the 3.6-liter 1994 911 Turbo, which actually belongs to the 964 series. The real 965, though never sold, represents a moment when Porsche dared to imagine a technologically advanced future under tight constraints. Its story still resonates because it reflects the tension between innovation and practicality—proof that even the prototypes that never make it to the road can leave a lasting imprint on a brand’s identity. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | STUTTCARS | WHICHCAR.AU | VINTAGE EUROPEAN IN FACEBOOK ]
