Ultimate Tribute: The 1958 Plymouth Fury 'Christine'

Christine Reborn - The allure of the 1958 Plymouth Fury has captivated car enthusiasts for decades, especially for those who have seen it in the iconic horror film "Christine," based on Stephen King's novel, transformed the Fury from a forgotten model into an unforgettable symbol of terror. Despite a lukewarm reception at the box office when it was released in 1983, the film's eerie portrayal of a car with a mind of its own has since earned it a dedicated following. As a result, many fans of the movie sought to own a piece of automotive history, leading to the rise of countless Christine replicas.

The 1958 Plymouth Fury has captivated car enthusiasts for decades, especially through its transformation in the iconic horror film Christine, based on Stephen King's novel, from a forgotten model to a symbol of terror. (Picture from: HotRod)

The original cars used for the movie were not easy to come by. In fact, the production initially set aside a hefty budget to acquire suitable Plymouths. A total of 24 vehicles were bought for the film, mostly '57 and '58 Savoys and Belvederes, with just one true Fury. These cars were often heavily damaged during filming and were intended to be used as parts for the many destruction scenes. At the end of production, only a few of these cars survived, and most were sent to the junkyard, leaving behind a legacy of rare movie memorabilia.

Christine, a 1958 Plymouth Fury from the horror film Christine, features Toreador Red with Iceberg White trim—the correct movie colors but not accurate for the 1958 Fury, which only came in Buckskin Beige with Gold trim. (Picture from: Syracuse)

One such car, however, found its way into the hands of Joe Caldwell, a passionate enthusiast who had been captivated by "Christine" since his childhood. Caldwell’s obsession with both horror movies and cars led him to pursue the idea of owning a piece of movie history. Initially, Caldwell sought an actual movie car but soon realized that this dream was practically unattainable due to the rarity and high demand for the surviving vehicles. Instead, he turned his focus to building the most authentic replica possible.

The 1958 Plymouth Fury’s striking front is unforgettable. Joe Caldwell, Christine’s owner, revealed the movie’s flaming bumpers were coated in grease, which burned—not the chrome itself. (Picture from: Syracuse)

In 2011, Caldwell’s journey began when he found a 1958 Plymouth Savoy in Arizona, which would serve as the foundation for his recreation. This rust-free, low-mileage vehicle became the canvas for his ambitious project. However, the process was far from straightforward. Caldwell, a dedicated "Christine" fan, had already immersed himself in the world of movie cars, even becoming the co-president of a related club. Through this network, he was able to acquire parts from actual movie cars that had been salvaged from the junkyard after filming.

The 1958 Plymouth Fury's simple instrument panel features gauges around the speedometer, pull knobs for controls, and a "POWER STEERING" badge on the wheel, proudly highlighting its equipment. (Picture from: Syracuse)

The restoration journey was not without challenges. Caldwell faced countless hurdles, including the poor condition of many parts, the difficulty of sourcing authentic trim, and the complexities of recreating the car's distinctive features. The car’s body was meticulously restored at Brighton Collision in Brooklyn, New York, while essential parts like the engine and transmission were rebuilt using components from the original movie cars. Despite the setbacks, Caldwell’s attention to detail paid off, with the car emerging as a near-perfect replica of the Christine seen on screen.

The 1958 Plymouth Fury's bold fins embody its era's style, while Christine’s trunk hides a rising flat-screen TV playing the movie and a sound system on the back wall. (Picture from: Syracuse)

One of the standout features of Caldwell's car is its ability to replicate the eerie qualities that made Christine so menacing. The interior lighting brightens when the door is opened, and the radio plays the haunting tune "Keep a Knockin’." Additionally, a smoke machine fills the car’s interior and exterior with mist, adding to the sinister atmosphere. Caldwell even went the extra mile by installing a plasma TV in the trunk that plays scenes from the movie, allowing fans to experience the iconic car in action.

Joe Caldwell, of Harrison, N.Y,, owner and builder of Christine, with his car (a 1958 Plymouth Fury) at the 2016 PPG Syracuse Nationals. (Picture from: Syracuse)

The culmination of this lengthy and painstaking project has led to Caldwell traveling extensively to showcase his masterpiece. He regularly attends Mopar events, Terror Con, and Comic-Con, often appearing alongside some of the original cast members of the film. His dedication to documenting the history of the Christine cars is equally impressive, as he has compiled an extensive archive of behind-the-scenes photos and correspondence from the production team.

Today, Caldwell's 1958 Plymouth Fury is widely regarded as one of the most authentic "Christine" replicas ever built. For him, it represents the fulfillment of a childhood dream and a deep connection to both the movie and the car that left an indelible mark on his life. The car is more than just a tribute to a cult classic; it is a testament to Caldwell’s passion for automobiles, horror films, and the pursuit of perfection. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOTROD | OLDCARSWEEKLY | SYRACUSE ]

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The Lost Countach Successor: Lamborghini L150

Forgotten ICON - Few car manufacturers dare to challenge conventions quite like Lamborghini. Since its founding in 1963 by Ferruccio Lamborghini, the brand has relentlessly pursued bold design and exhilarating performance, creating some of the most iconic supercars the world has ever seen. What began as a rivalry with Ferrari quickly evolved into something greater—a legacy of innovation, aggressive styling, and raw power. Over the years, Lamborghini has introduced legendary models, but not every ambitious project saw the light of day. One such forgotten chapter is the lost successor to the Countach—the Lamborghini L150.

The Lamborghini L150, the lost Countach successor, was developed during the mid-1980s under the leadership of the Mimran brothers. (Picture from: SupercarNostalgia)

During the 1970s, Lamborghini faced severe financial struggles, particularly following the 1973 global economic downturn and oil crisis. As a result, Ferruccio Lamborghini sold the company to Georges-Henri Rossetti and René Leimer before retiring in 1974. By 1978, the company had gone bankrupt and was placed under receivership. In 1980, brothers Jean-Claude and Patrick Mimran acquired Lamborghini for $3 million, renaming it Nuova Automobili Lamborghini SpA and setting out to restore its former glory. Under their leadership, the brand experienced a revival.

The Lamborghini L150 was never intended as a drastic departure from the Countach but rather a refined and sophisticated evolution. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

The failed Silhouette was reworked into the Jalpa, a more affordable and practical alternative to the Countach, powered by a 3.5-liter V8 refined by legendary Maserati engineer Giulio Alfieri. Meanwhile, the Countach continued to evolve, with models like the LP 500S in 1982 and the LP5000 Quattrovalvole in 1984, which produced an impressive 455 PS (449 hp). Lamborghini also ventured into the SUV market with the 1986 LM002, a direct evolution of the abandoned Cheetah project.

The Lamborghini L150 featured a newly engineered chassis that enhanced rigidity and optimized thermal management, essential for handling its increased power. (Picture from: SupercarNostalgia)

Yet, for all its success, the Countach was beginning to show its age. Lamborghini knew it needed more than just another update—it needed something revolutionary. This realization led to the birth of the L150 project, a car that could have taken Lamborghini in a bold new direction.

Inside the Lamborghini L150's cabin, you'll find a three-spoke sporty steering wheel, a Countach-inspired dashboard, and cozy, ergonomically designed seats. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

The L150 was not meant to be a radical departure from the Countach but rather a sophisticated evolution. It featured a newly designed chassis that offered better rigidity and improved thermal management, crucial for the increased power it was expected to handle. The suspension was refined, and the car was equipped with larger wheels and tires for enhanced grip and handling.

The Lamborghini L150 powered by a 5.2-liter V-12 engine from the 5000 QV, which produced 455 hp and 369 pound-feet (500 Nm). (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

Visually, the L150 retained the aggressive, wedge-shaped design of the Countach but introduced key improvements. Horacio Pagani, who would later establish his own supercar company, was responsible for its styling. He incorporated larger, active air vents on the sides that opened and closed based on temperature needs, improving cooling efficiency. Additional intakes were placed behind the side glass, while new vents on the rear fenders optimized airflow. The traditional manually operated two-piece side windows were replaced with electric versions that rolled down like conventional windows, enhancing practicality. A revised front air dam and larger cooling vents at the rear further distinguished the L150 from its predecessor.

The Lamborghini L150, positioned alongside test driver Valentino Balboni. (Picture from: SupercarNostalgia)

While some elements of its design paid homage to the original Countach concept by Marcello Gandini, the L150 was an aerodynamic improvement, boasting cleaner lines and better airflow management. It was meant to be a more user-friendly and advanced version of the Countach, maintaining Lamborghini’s signature aggressive aesthetics while making it more functional.

The Lamborghini L150 featured deep body-colored side skirts along the wheelbase, while the large NACA side ducts and bulbous rear wheel arch flares were removed. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

At the time, automotive magazines speculated about Lamborghini’s next supercar, but the L150 remained largely unknown to the public. When Chrysler acquired Lamborghini in 1987, the company decided to abandon the project entirely, opting to develop an all-new car instead—the Diablo. As a result, the L150 never went into production, and its existence faded into obscurity.

The Lamborghini L150 featured newly designed rear fenders, carefully crafted to blend seamlessly with the aerodynamic profile. (Picture from: SupercarNostalgia)

However, the prototype was not lost forever. As the story goes, Patrick Mimran took possession of the only completed L150 prototype as a farewell gift to himself before stepping down as CEO. In 1989, the car was sold to Auto Palace, a luxury car dealership in Japan, for a reported JPN ¥400 million ($2.6 million at the time, equivalent to $5.3 million in 2020). From there, it was acquired by Minoru Miura, one of Japan’s most prominent car collectors, where it remains today—hidden away from public view. | VrhKE283WFU |

With Lamborghini’s 2021 tribute to the Countach, marking its 50th anniversary, the forgotten L150 deserves to be remembered. It was a vision of what a modern Countach could have been—an alternate path that Lamborghini never took. Though it never reached production, the L150 remains a fascinating ‘what if’ in Lamborghini’s history—an unseen masterpiece, left behind in the pursuit of something new. While the Diablo took its place in the limelight, the L150 now exists only in whispers, a forgotten dream of what the modern Countach could have been. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER | WIKIPEDIA | RARECOMPONENTCARS | FACEBOOK | SUPERCARNOSTALGIA ]

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Ferrari Fioravanti SP1: A Unique Masterpiece of Custom Automotive Design

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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Reviving Retro: The Rare AAT 1954 Corvette Sport Wagon

Heritage Reborn - The world of automotive design has always been a fascinating intersection of history and innovation, where classic ideas are reborn with modern technology. One of the most striking examples of this is the AAT 1954 Commemorative Sport Wagon, a vehicle that pays homage to the iconic 1954 Chevrolet Corvette Waldorf Nomad. This rare and unique car was created by Advanced Automotive Technologies (AAT), a Michigan-based company known for its retro-inspired builds, including the AAT Heldo sports car introduced in 2000. 

The AAT 1954 Commemorative Sport Wagon served as a tribute to the iconic 1954 Chevrolet Corvette Nomad concept, by using the C5 Corvette as the foundation. (Picture from: BringATrailer)

By blending vintage aesthetics with the power and refinement of a modern Corvette, AAT successfully revived a forgotten piece of automotive history, turning it into a road-ready collector’s dream. FYI, the original 1954 Chevrolet Corvette Waldorf Nomad was unveiled by General Motors at the New York Motorama 1954, showcasing an innovative fusion of Corvette styling and station wagon practicality. While the concept never made it to production, its influence remained strong among car enthusiasts. 

The AAT 1954 Commemorative Sport Wagon was inspired by and served as a tribute to the iconic 1954 Chevrolet Corvette Nomad concept. (Picture from: ClassicCars)

Decades later, AAT decided to bring this classic vision back to life, using the C5 Corvette as the foundation. The result was a stunning reinterpretation of the 1954 design, complete with retro-inspired bodywork while retaining the performance and drivability expected from a modern sports car. 

The AAT 1953 Commemorative Edition Convertible was inspired by and served as a tribute to the iconic 1953 Chevrolet Corvette. (Picture from: Autoweek)

Having previously built a C5 Corvette-based 1953 Commemorative Edition convertible, transitioning to a sport wagon was a natural progression. Between 2002 and 2003, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Corvette and had hoped GM would take the project under its wing. However, when the corporation declined, AAT moved forward independently, producted the 1953 Commemorative Edition convertible in limited numbers, making it an exceptionally rare collector’s item.

The AAT 1954 Commemorative Sport Wagon's cabin, while retro in appearance, came equipped with modern conveniences such as heated bucket seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, a head-up display, power windows, and a premium Bose audio system. (Picture from: BringATrailer)

Building on this success, AAT also introduced the 1954 Commemorative Sport Wagon as an offshoot of the 1953 project, further expanding its tribute to Corvette’s heritage. In total, AAT delivered 175 units of both the Sport Wagon and its convertible sibling, cementing its place in the history of Corvette-inspired custom builds.

One of the AAT 1954 Commemorative Sport Wagons under yellow-colored body which appeared at Mecum Auctions in January 2022. (Picture from: MecumAuctions)

Among them, one of the most well-known examples was a bright yellow model (one of 2 units ever built) auctioned by Mecum Auctions in January 2022. This vehicle stood out with its distinctive retro styling, featuring chrome-accented bumpers, doors, and fenders that highlighted its vintage appeal. Inside, a black-and-yellow leather interior created a bold contrast, reinforcing its unique character. 

The AAT 1954 Commemorative Sport Wagon's cabin adorned with a black-and-yellow leather interior created a bold contrast, reinforcing its unique character. (Picture from: MecumAuctions)

While the car maintained a classic aesthetic, its design was centered around pure driving pleasure rather than high-tech features. Under the hood, it was powered by a 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine producing 405 horsepower, paired with a six-speed manual transmission for an engaging driving experience.

One of the AAT 1954 Commemorative Sport Wagons under yellow-colored body which appeared at Mecum Auctions in January 2022. (Picture from: MecumAuctions)

At same year, another rare AAT Nomad appeared at Bring a Trailer, this time in an eye-catching red finish. This particular model was believed to be one of only two red units ever built. With 11,000 miles on the odometer, it remained in exceptional condition, showcasing its well-preserved heritage. 

The AAT 1954 Commemorative Sport Wagon's front fascia paid direct tribute to the 1954 Corvette, featuring a sculpted hood, prominent chrome bumper, and signature fender lines that captured the essence of the original concept. (Picture from: Autoweek)

The car's front fascia paid direct tribute to the 1954 Corvette, featuring a sculpted hood, prominent chrome bumper, and signature fender lines that captured the essence of the original concept. Complementing its retro styling, it was equipped with Z06-style wheels and extensive chrome detailing that added to its nostalgic charm. 

The AAT 1954 Commemorative Sport Wagon under silver-colored body while attended at the 2022 Woodward Dream Cruise. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The cabin, while retro in appearance, came equipped with modern conveniences such as heated bucket seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, a head-up display, power windows, and a premium Bose audio system. When the auction closed on January 15, 2022, this rare red Sport Wagon found a new owner for $81,000, cementing its status as a highly sought-after collector's car. | EPSvmmZNhsQ |

The AAT 1954 Commemorative Sport Wagon stands as an extraordinary tribute to a concept that never reached production, blending retro design with modern performance in a way few vehicles can. With its rarity, distinctive styling, and connection to Chevrolet’s past, it remains a fascinating piece of automotive history. By resurrecting the spirit of the 1954 Nomad and adapting it for the modern era, AAT ensured that this vision would not be forgotten, proving that some classic ideas are simply too special to remain in the past. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MECUMAUCTIONS | BRINGATRAILER | ID.MOTOR1 | CORVSPORT | HOTCARS | SUPERCARS.NET | CARANDDRIVER | CLASSICCARS | MOTORTREND | AUTOWEEK ]

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Etna: Stunning Gallardo Restomod by Tedson Motors

Tamed Fury - The world of high-performance automobiles has always been defined by a pursuit of power, precision, and exclusivity. Among the many names that have left their mark, some stand out not just for their engineering but for their passion in reshaping what’s possible. Tedson Motors, a Zagreb-based coachbuilder, has done just that with the stunning Tedson Motors Etna, a reimagined take on the Lamborghini Gallardo that takes the iconic supercar to a whole new level.

The Etna is a breathtaking custom masterpiece by Croatian coachbuilder Tedson Motors, meticulously engineered from the foundation of the iconic Lamborghini Gallardo. (Picture from: Motor1)

At first glance, the Etna commands attention with its widened stance and lower profile, giving it an even more aggressive presence. The front has been extensively redesigned, with the removal of side bumper vents and the addition of revised Teledial alloys. Larger inlets ahead of the rear arches not only add to its visual drama but also enhance aerodynamics, ensuring it looks as fast as it moves. 

The Tedson Etna’s front-end immediately stands out with its wider stance, lower profile, and aggressive redesign, featuring the removal of side bumper vents, revised Teledial alloys, and larger inlets ahead of the rear arches that enhance both aerodynamics and visual impact. (Picture from: Motor1)

However, the real transformation happens at the rear, where a body-colored roof cover seamlessly integrates with a ducktail rear wing. This design evolution extends to the exhaust system, featuring striking custom titanium pipes, and an entirely new lighting signature that sets the Etna apart from its donor car.

The Tedson Etna powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V10 now produces an impressive 600bhp—an 80bhp increase over the standard Gallardo—while its redline has been pushed to a thrilling 10,000rpm. (Picture from: Motor1)

Beyond aesthetics, Tedson Motors has also refined the mechanical heart of the machine. The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V10 now produces an impressive 600bhp—an 80bhp increase over the standard Gallardo—while its redline has been pushed to a thrilling 10,000rpm. With a focus on preserving the manual versions of the Gallardo, Tedson exclusively works with automatic models for the Etna, ensuring that enthusiasts who appreciate traditional gearboxes will still have untouched examples of the original.

The Tedson Etna further elevates performance by incorporating suspension components from the track-focused Gallardo Super Trofeo, enhancing its handling dynamics. (Picture from: Motor1)

The engineering enhancements don’t stop there. Borrowing suspension components from the track-focused Gallardo Super Trofeo, the Etna offers improved handling dynamics. Carbon fiber has been extensively utilized throughout the body, chassis, and interior, leading to a remarkable weight reduction of nearly 200kg. This painstaking transformation took approximately three years of development, a testament to Tedson’s commitment to excellence.

The Tedson Etna’s rear-end undergoes a striking transformation with a seamlessly integrated body-colored roof cover, a sculpted ducktail rear wing, custom titanium exhaust pipes, and a completely redesigned lighting signature that distinguishes it from its Gallardo origins. (Picture from: Carbuzz)

Goran Turkic, the head of Tedson Motors, perfectly captured the philosophy behind the Etna: the desire to create a lighter, stronger, and more engaging supercar while preserving the analogue essence of the first-generation Gallardo. In an age where digital interfaces and hybrid powertrains dominate, the Etna stands as a rare homage to pure driving emotion.

For those interested in owning this unique creation, the transformation requires not only a donor Gallardo but also a substantial investment of at least £625,000. The final cost varies based on custom finishes and materials, and the conversion process itself takes roughly a year to complete. Yet, for those who seek something truly exceptional, the Tedson Motors Etna is more than just a modified Gallardo—it is a statement of craftsmanship, passion, and automotive artistry. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TEDSON MOTORS | MOTOR1 | TOPGEAR | CARANDDRIVER | CARBUZZ ]

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One-of-a-Kind Fiat 500 D Coupè Built by Varis Vegni

Bespoke Classic - Always on the lookout for hidden gems and untold stories of rare and unique cars, we’ve uncovered something truly special. It’s not every day that a classic vehicle is reborn in a way that honors its legacy while completely redefining its character. When you think of iconic Italian automotive design, names like Ferrari or Lamborghini might be the first to come to mind—but for generations, the modest Fiat 500 has stood as a symbol of charm, practicality, and the resilient spirit of post-war Italy. It was never about speed or extravagance—it was about freedom. And now, a rare example is capturing attention not just for what it once was, but for the remarkable transformation it has undergone.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè is a custom-built creation by the skilled hands of Varis Vegni, dramatically transformed from its original form. (Picture from: Retromania4ever on X)

This is the story of a one-of-a-kind Fiat 500 D Coupè, custom-built by the skilled hands of Varis Vegni, a dedicated craftsman from the province of Grosseto, Italy. Originally a 1960 Fiat 500 D, this car started life as one of the many compact city cars that helped mobilize Italy during the economic boom. Vegni, who had owned the car since 1973, envisioned something far more distinctive. After years of planning throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he finally brought his design to life between the 1990s and early 2000s—transforming the beloved city car into a one-off coupé masterpiece.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè was entirely reimagined by Varis Vegni, who devoted his spare time to handcrafting its distinctive coupé silhouette using traditional hand-beating techniques while preserving the car’s original spirit. (Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)

Every curve and contour of this Fiat 500 was reimagined through manual craftsmanship. Vegni dedicated his spare time to reshaping the car’s body, using traditional hand-beating techniques to mold its unique coupe silhouette while preserving its unmistakable soul. The original “suicide doors” were retained, offering a nostalgic nod to the car’s classic design, but the overall bodywork was refined to give the vehicle a sleeker and sportier presence—without compromising its original proportions.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè features a fully restored interior, with upholstery redone in Fiat’s original ochre color and accented by a white bezel for a vintage touch. (Picture from: NetClassic.it)

What makes this coupé even more special is how faithfully it retains the essence of the original. It still runs on the rear-mounted 499cc twin-cylinder engine, producing 17 horsepower through a 4-speed manual gearbox. The original dimensions, including the signature sunroof, remain untouched, ensuring that the transformation didn’t stray from the spirit of the car. Updates include a dedicated front fuel tank and a custom battery compartment, thoughtfully integrated to support the modified structure.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè retains its original “suicide doors” as a nostalgic nod to its classic design, while its refined bodywork adds a sleeker, sportier presence without altering its original proportions. (Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)

Inside, the restoration continues to impress. The upholstery has been completely redone in Fiat’s original ochre color, accented with a white bezel for a vintage finish. New door panels, refreshed chrome details, and Giannini wheel studs reflect the attention to detail that defines this build. Even the hood has been replaced and now functions seamlessly, keeping out water and maintaining the car’s practical charm.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè showcases meticulous attention to detail through its new door panels, refreshed chrome accents, and Giannini wheel studs. (Picture from: QuatroMania.it)

Still painted in its original Fiat 115 Medium Red, this unique creation hasn’t just been restored—it’s been elevated. Certified for roadworthiness as recently as October 2021, it passed inspections with ease and has only minor maintenance needs noted for the future. With just over 38,000 kilometers on the odometer, it remains a working piece of art ready for display or daily enjoyment.

The 1960 Fiat 500 D Coupè remains painted in its original Fiat 115 Medium Red and is powered by a rear-mounted 499cc twin-cylinder engine delivering 17 horsepower through a 4-speed manual gearbox. (Picture from: World Cars From The 1930s To 1980s on Facebook)

Wherever it appears, this Fiat 500 D Coupè draws admiration. It was a highlight at the 2022 Auto Moto d’Epoca fair in Padua and is now catching the eyes of collectors and enthusiasts alike on platforms like Catawiki (already had sold). It may be small in stature, but this car carries a grand presence, proving that when passion meets craftsmanship, even the most modest beginnings can lead to extraordinary transformations.

For those looking not just for a car, but for a story—something lovingly crafted, deeply personal, and undeniably Italian—this Fiat 500 D Coupè is more than rare. It’s truly one of a kind. Curious to see more unique custom Topolinos? *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CATAWIKI | RETROMANIA4EVER ON X | QUATROMANIA.IT | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS ON FACEBOOK | WORLD CARS FROM THE 1930S TO 1980S ON FACEBOOK | NETCLASSIC.IT | PERICO001 ON FLICKR | MSNEWS.RO | CLASSICDRIVER | WEIRDWHEELS ON REDDIT | PINTEREST CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | NET CLASSIC ON FACEBOOK ]

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