The Vemac RD180: A Rare Sports Car with an Ingenious Design

Rare ONES - The world of cars is vast, with numerous manufacturers producing countless models over the years. Some vehicles gain instant fame, while others remain obscure, known only to a few enthusiasts. One such lesser-known gem is the Vemac RD180, a sports car that stands out not only for its rarity but also for its unique design and engineering of the 2000s.

The Vemac RD180 was a design concept prototype and the styling was a mix of Porsche, Honda and Lotus with an elongated rear end. (Picture from: Supercars.net)

The Vemac Car Company was a low-volume Anglo-Japanese car manufacturer founded in 1998 by Osamu Hatakawa and Masao Ono, two employees of Tokyo R&D. Their goal was to create a road-going version of the Cadwell. It's a lightweight racing car designed by the company, named after Cadwell Park, a club racing circuit in the UK, the Cadwell had seen success on the track. Amateur racers, thrilled by the Cadwell's performance, wanted a similar machine for road use.

The Vemac RD180 featured a targa top similar to the Honda CRX (Del Sol), and even the windscreen could be detached, with a single aero-screen fitted for track use. (Picture from: Forum.Forza.net)

The Vemac RD180 was the first in a planned series of sports cars that were supposed to include the RD200, RD320, and RD350. However, only the RD180 and RD200 made it to limited production, with the RD320 and RD350 never seeing the light of day. Despite this, the RD180's unique characteristics and story make it a fascinating piece of automotive history. Furthermore, Vemac is noted for constructing race cars used in the All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship and its successor, Super GT.

The Vemac RD180 opted for a lightweight space frame chassis, a mid-engined power plant, and a super lightweight body. (Picture from: Forum.Forza.net)

At its core, the RD180 was a design concept prototype, blending the styling cues of Porsche, Honda, and Lotus. Its elongated rear end was not just for aesthetics but had a functional purpose.At the time, Tokyo R&D's owner, with experience in developing the Dome's Le Mans sport racer and several Japanese F1 cars, understood the need for a European touch to make the car successful. He enlisted British designer Chris Craft, an English racer, and developer of the Rocket Sports Car with the famous Gordon Murray, to bring the road car to life.

The Vemac RD180's short rear end typically meant the weight was concentrated there, necessitating careful suspension work to manage the pendulum effect during hard driving. (Picture from: Auta5p.eu)

The design team aimed to create a sports racing car configuration with two seats. They opted for a lightweight space frame chassis, a mid-engined power plant, and a super lightweight body. This design allowed easy configuration for road or race use. The car featured a targa top similar to the Honda CRX (Del Sol), and even the windscreen could be detached, with a single aero-screen fitted for track use. Sticking to its Japanese roots, the team chose a "local" engine from Honda.

Inside, the Vemac RD180 featured a subdued aesthetic with leather-upholstered seats for a cozy feel, three-spoke steering-wheel, and a center console with parts and switches from the Honda CRX (Del Sol). (Picture from: Supercars.net)

Achieving the correct weight distribution was crucial. Mid-engined sports cars with lower power ranges often mimic rear-engined vehicles due to their transverse engine with a combined transaxle. The short rear end typically meant the weight was concentrated there, necessitating careful suspension work to manage the pendulum effect during hard driving.

The Vemac RD180 is powered by a 1.8-liter naturally-aspirated Honda VTEC engine that produced 180 hp. (Picture from: Forum.Forza.net)

The solution came from the Honda Integra Type R, a front-engined, front-drive vehicle. Tokyo R&D placed the block in the middle of the car and repositioned the gearbox behind the block, creating a longitudinal configuration instead of transverse. This decision led to the car's distinctive longer rear section, solving the weight distribution issue effectively.

Thus, the Vemac RD180 was born, named after its 1.8-liter donor motor that produced 180hp and had the characteristic high-revving nature of a Honda VTEC engine. Weighing in at 880 kg, the RD180 was significantly lighter than the Integra, enhancing its performance. Built by the Rocket Car Company in the UK, the RD180 benefitted from the proximity to racing materials and expertise.

The Vemac RD320R in action at the Super GT 2011 Rd.6 Fuji GT 250km with a 4-liter V8 Zytec motor. (Picture from: Supercars.net)

Contemporary reviews praised the RD180's handling and overall driving experience. It excelled on narrow, winding roads, offering a thrilling ride. However, being a limited production vehicle, it was quite expensive and impractical, hindering its commercial success. | 3z4CA2mJnrU |

Production of the sports car ceased in 2004. Reportedly, there were ambitious plans for the RD180 to utilize the Honda S2000 motor, but they never materialized. However, in 2005, the automaker launched a racing variant, the Vemac RD320R, which competed in Japan for several years with a 4-liter Zytec V8 motor. In 2006, they also launched the Vemac RD408H, one of the world’s first hybrid racing cars.

The Vemac RD408H, one of the world’s first hybrid racing cars launched by Vemac in 2006. (Picture from: Supercars.net)

Despite its limited production and commercial struggles, the Vemac RD180 remains a remarkable example of innovative automotive engineering. It showcases the blend of Japanese precision and European design flair, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to experience it. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | FORUMS.FORZA.NET | MOTORINGWEEK | WIKIPEDIA | AUTA5P.EU ]

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Walter de'Silva's 1999 Bugatti Veyron Concept: A Unique Design Chapter

Forgotten ONES - In the realm of luxury automobiles, few names evoke as much prestige and innovation as Bugatti. From its storied past to its present-day feats of engineering, Bugatti has continually pushed boundaries in speed, elegance, and design.

A unique design chapter of the Walter de'Silva's 1999 Bugatti Veyron Concept. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

One pivotal moment in Bugatti's modern history came with the introduction of the Bugatti Veyron. However, its journey to iconic status began earlier with the Bugatti EB110 in the late eighties, marking a resurgence for the brand. Acquired by Volkswagen Group in the nineties, Bugatti embarked on a new era of automotive excellence.

The 1999 Bugatti Veyron concept, designed by Walter de'Silva during his tenure as SEAT's head of design, commissioned by Volkswagen Design's Hartmut Warkuss, sparked intrigue and curiosity among automotive enthusiasts. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

Amidst the evolution, a lesser-known chapter unfolds with the 1999 Bugatti Veyron concept designed by Walter de'Silva, then-head of design at SEAT. Commissioned by Volkswagen Design's Hartmut Warkuss, this concept stirred intrigue and curiosity among automotive enthusiasts.

The 1999 Bugatti Veyron concept, designed by Walter de'Silva, included distinctive side air inlets and a rounded rear that hinted at the future production Veyron's aesthetic. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

Examining the concept, one cannot help but wonder about de'Silva's vision. Elements seen in this prototype, such as the distinctive side air inlets and rounded rear, hint at what would later define the production Veyron's aesthetic.

Despite its conceptual allure, de'Silva's design faced rejection in favor of another proposal within Volkswagen Group. Ferdinand Piëch, overseeing Bugatti's revival, opted for a different direction, ultimately shaping the Veyron into the masterpiece known today.

The 1999 Bugatti Veyron concept, designed by Walter de'Silva, was later unveiled in Quattroruote, an Italian automotive magazine, offering a glimpse into an alternate Bugatti timeline. (Picture from: BugattiRevue)

While there are similarities between de'Silva's concept and the production Veyron, we appreciate VAG's decision to opt for Warkuss's design. Based on the Giugiaro-styled Chiron 18.3, the Veyron ultimately appeared more sophisticated and elegant. Nonetheless, this concept endures as a footnote in the epic tale of the world's most audacious supercars.

The 2000 Bugatti EB 18/4 Veyron concept, ultimately chosen for production, appeared more sophisticated and elegant. (Picture from: MotorTrend)

Rediscovered years later by Quattroruote, an Italian automotive magazine, the de'Silva concept resurfaced, offering a glimpse into an alternate Bugatti timeline. Though overshadowed by its successor, the concept remains a testament to bold creativity in automotive design.

The 2006 Bugatti Veyron #001 made a mark on automotive history that no exclusive color combos—or even high-performance Super Sport models—could diminish. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

While de'Silva's concept didn't clinch the Bugatti throne, his career trajectory within Volkswagen Group design has proven resilient. Today, he holds a prominent position, echoing the journey of those who shaped Bugatti's legacy before him.

In the tapestry of Bugatti's history, the de'Silva concept stands as a testament to the ongoing pursuit of automotive excellence. Its legacy lives on, reminding us of the enduring allure and innovation that define Bugatti, a name synonymous with automotive greatness. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOBLOG | DRIVE.COM.AU | MOTORAUTHORITY | BUGATTIREVUE | AUTOEVOLUTION | GTPLANET | MOTORTREND ]

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Pontiac's Bold Ferrari Look-Alike: The Car That Sparked a Legal Battle

Unique ONES - In the world of automotive design, few stories are as captivating as that of the Pontiac Mera. Imagine a car that could easily be mistaken for a Ferrari, yet hails from the heart of American innovation. This car is not just an Italian sports car look-alike, but a unique creation born from Pontiac's ambition to blend exotic styling with their engineering prowess. The Pontiac Mera's tale is one of creativity, boldness, and the intriguing intersection of two distinct automotive cultures.

The Corporate Concepts Limited Pontiac Mera was a sportier model of the Fiero, featuring a striking fiberglass body that resembled the sleek curves of a Ferrari, capturing the attention of car enthusiasts and casual observers alike. (Picture from: GMAuthority)

Zagato's Unique Take: A Bold New Look for the Lamborghini Gallardo

BOLD New LOOK - Lamborghini's supercars are famous for their aggressive design. Models like the Lamborghini Aventador, Huracán, and Urus are known for their bold lines that exude a fierce look. 

The 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato is final iteration of the 5-95 Zagato series, while attended at the opening of the first edition of the Hong Kong International MotorXpo 2019. (Picture from: Zagato in Facebook)

However, not everyone is aware that some Lamborghini supercars, particularly those crafted by Zagato, feature a more fluid and dynamic body shape. Among these is the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato series, which includes the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato and the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Second Edition.

The 2014 Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato, crafted under the commission of Swiss luxury car collector Albert Spiess, debuted at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in Cernobbio, Italy. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato series stands out significantly from the standard Gallardo. This series was followed the Lamborghini Zagato Raptor model launched in 1996, and marked a significant milestone for Zagato, showcasing ambitious designs with innovative elements.

The 2014 Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Second Edition, built on the same Gallardo LP570-4 platform, was launched just two months after the first edition. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)

Initially, the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato was commissioned by Swiss luxury car collector Albert Spiess and made its debut in 2014 at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in Cernobbio, Italy. This special model was created to celebrate Zagato's 95th anniversary. The 5-95 Zagato is based on the Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4, sharing many performance components, including the same V10 engine.

The 2016 Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Valentino Balboni edition, crafted to commemorate Zagato's 100th Anniversary. (Picture from: Autocar.jp)

Shortly after, the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Second Edition was introduced. This supercar, also based on the Gallardo LP 570-4, was kept under wraps regarding its first buyer. Only five units were planned for global production, making it an exclusive model for collectors.

The 2016 Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Valentino Balboni edition, 100th Anniversary Model, while attended at the Concorso d’Eleganza Kyoto 2019. (Picture from: Autocar.jp)

The sharp lines of the original Gallardo were refined by Zagato's designers, resulting in a more dynamic and curvaceous body. Starting with the front fascia, the 5-95 Zagato features an oval-shaped grille and layered headlamps that blend seamlessly with the front body.

Moving to the sides, the front and rear fenders are elegantly curved, enhancing the car's dynamic appearance. The rear of the car sports redesigned taillights, harmonizing with the overall sleek body design. These taillights bear a resemblance to those of the Alfa Romeo 8C and Lotus Elise.

In 2018, rumors swirled about a new version of the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato, which surfaced on Zagato’s website under the badge '2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

Under the hood, the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato series retains the same powerhouse as the standard Gallardo. It boasts a V10 engine with a 5,200 cc capacity, delivering 562 hp and a maximum torque of 540 Nm. This impressive engine powers the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, with a top speed of 325 km/h. The engine's wild power is transmitted to all four wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission.

The 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato is final iteration of the 5-95 Zagato series, while attended at the opening of the first edition of the Hong Kong International MotorXpo 2019. (Picture from: ExclusiveRegestry)

The story didn't end there. In 2016, the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato Valentino Balboni 100th Edition was launched to commemorate Zagato's 100th anniversary. This model featured intricate details that captivated car enthusiasts, ensuring a timeless design that never grows old.

The 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato is final iteration of the 5-95 Zagato series, while attended at the opening of the first edition of the Hong Kong International MotorXpo 2019. (Picture from: ExclusiveRegestry)

In 2018, rumors swirled about a new version of the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato. The Milan-based coachbuilder reportedly created a Spider version, named the 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato. This new model featured a practical, foldable roof, but detailed specifications remained a mystery. Despite the limited publicity, the car's design continued the legacy of the iconic Lamborghini 350 GTZ and 400 GTZ from the 1960s.

The 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato is final iteration of the 5-95 Zagato series, while attended at the opening of the first edition of the Hong Kong International MotorXpo 2019. (Picture from: ExclusiveRegestry)

Eventually, the 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato, also known as the Lamborghini 5-95 Spider Zagato, was spotted at the Hong Kong International MotorXpo. Its rounded lines and unique style enchanted attendees, maintaining the timeless appeal of Zagato's designs. Unfortunately it is not known whether this 5-95 Spider Zagato was produced, because to date there is very little information about this model.

The 2018 Lamborghini L595 Zagato is final iteration of the 5-95 Zagato series, while attended at the opening of the first edition of the Hong Kong International MotorXpo 2019. (Picture from: ExclusiveRegestry)

The journey of the Lamborghini 5-95 Zagato series is a testament to the innovative spirit of Lamborghini and Zagato. Each model in this series represents a blend of dynamic design and powerful performance, capturing the essence of what makes Lamborghini supercars truly remarkable. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAGATO.IT | ZAGATO IN FACEBOOK | YAKYMOUR | CARANDDRIVER | SPORTSCARDIGEST | AUTOCAR.JP | AUTOCAR.CO.UK | EXCLUSIVECARREGESTRY | CARBUZZ ]

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Abarth's Ambitious Dream of Dominance in the Racing World

Dream Chaser - From ambitious dreams to harsh realities, the journey of Abarth in the world of racing is a tale of passion, innovation, and unforeseen challenges. Synonymous with sportiness, Abarth's legacy is not just about creating fast cars but about pushing the boundaries of what's possible. One such ambitious project was the Abarth T140 6000, a racing prototype that aimed to challenge the giants like Porsche and Ferrari in the international racing arena.

The Abarth T140 6000 replica, crafted by Scuderia Gemini Corse from available photos and drawings, revitalizes Abarth's legacy, evident in its presence today. (Picture from: Pinterest)

In the late '60s, Carlo Abarth, the genius behind the brand, envisioned a car that could compete head-to-head with the best in the business. So then the Abarth T140 6000 was not just another sports car; it was a masterpiece in the making, powered by a vigorous 6000 cc 12V engine designed to conquer races like the 24-Hours of Le Mans. 

The Abarth T140 6000 clay model is a testament to Abarth's ambitious pursuit of racing dominance during the 1960s. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)

Unfortunately, fate had different plans for this ambitious creation. Despite its potential to redefine racing standards, the T140 6000 never saw the light of day due to a rule change in the Sport Prototype category. This left Abarth enthusiasts with a sense of wonder and curiosity about what could have been.

The sleek Abarth T140 6000 clay model hinted at Abarth's ambitions to compete in elite endurance racing, taking on giants like Ferrari and Porsche. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)

A pivotal moment in Abarth's journey occurred with the unveiling of the Abarth V12 engine in 1967, showcasing Abarth's relentless pursuit of excellence. The sheer power and ingenuity of this engine hinted at Abarth's ambitions to enter the elite realm of endurance racing, challenging the likes of Ferrari and Porsche.

A pivotal moment for Abarth came with the debut of the Abarth V12 engine in 1967, showcasing their relentless pursuit of excellence. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

However, the challenges were daunting. The weight of the T140 6000 posed a significant obstacle, tipping the scales at a ton, unlike the lightweight Ferrari 330 P4. Moreover, regulatory changes further complicated Abarth's aspirations, forcing them to reconsider their strategy and ultimately abandon the T140 6000 project. After implementing this change, none to be produced for homologation, a task that the artisanal Abarth company was ill-prepared to undertake.

From the skilled hands of engineer Hansi Marsi emerged the Abarth T140 6000 racing car replica, brought to life with remarkable precision and detail. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)

Despite the setback, Abarth's legacy continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts. The spirit of innovation and the quest for perfection remain ingrained in every Abarth creations, reminding us that in the world of racing, dreams may falter, but the pursuit of greatness never ends.

The finished Abarth T140 6000 replica first graced the track in 2017 and has since been a highlight at numerous classic and historic events throughout Europe. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)

Given these circumstances, it's no surprise that the Abarth V12 engine ended up in the hands of a collector, while the chassis and body plans were tucked away in a drawer. However, in a remarkable turn of events, in 2014, engineer Hansi Marz from Scuderia Gemini Corse in Bavaria embarked on a project to assemble a magnificent replica based on available photos and drawings,, breathing new life into Abarth's legacy as you can see today.

The Abarth T140 6000 replica features a fiberglass bodywork mounted on a space frame tube chassis, propelled by a rear mid-mounted BMW V12 engine producing 450 horsepower, coupled with a 6-speed transmission. (Picture from: ClassicAndRecreationSportscars)

Over a three-year period, he developed a space frame tube chassis and fiberglass bodywork, powered by a rear mid-mounted BMW V12 engine generating 450 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed transmission. The completed car made its debut on the track in 2017 and has since participated in various classic and historic events across Europe.

In the end, the T140 6000 stands as a testament to Abarth's daring vision and the unpredictable nature of the racing world. While the prototype may never roar across the finish line, its legacy lives on, a symbol of ambition, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of racing excellence.  *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | EN.ESCUDERIA | ROADANDTRACK | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS | WIKIPEDIA ]

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GVANG Steamer: Bridging Performance and Sustainability with Steam Innovation

Lost Gems - In the vast landscape of unique concept cars, many innovative designs remain hidden from the public eye. One such groundbreaking design was the GVANG Steamer, a unique futuristic steam-engined vehicle that aimed to revolutionize both performance and sustainability. Developed in Sydney during the early 1970s, despite its promise, the high-performance car was never made it to mass production.

The GVANG Steamer was a unique futuristic steam-engined vehicle that aimed to revolutionize both performance and sustainability, and was first presented at the Sydney International Motor Show in 1972. (Picture from: CarMechanic)

As the early 1970s saw a growing interest in low-pollution power systems, the GVANG was designed to demonstrate the potential of steam power. The project aimed to surpass the 1906 steam land speed record. The car was the brainchild of Gene van Grecken, an artist and architect, with help from Bob Britton and Stan Smith. Privately funded from 1968 to 1980, the GVANG was designed to achieve a top speed of 200 mph.

The GVANG Steamer was the brainchild of Gene van Grecken, an artist and architect, with help from his colleagues Bob Britton and Stan Smith. (Picture from: Classic and Recreation Sportscars)

For regular road use, a detuned version was planned, limiting the speed to approximately 118 mph. Between 1971 and 1972, the GVANG Steamer was a lightweight prototype with a steel frame chassis and aluminum bodywork by Sydney-based Hadley coachworks. The full canopy opening allowed easy access to the cabin, emphasizing its futuristic design.

The GVANG Steamer featured an exceptional two-cylinder steam engine that produced an impressive 300 bhp, as published by Popular Mechanics auto magazine in 1972. (Picture from: Classic and Recreation Sportscars)

The GVANG Steamer featured an exceptional two-cylinder steam engine that produced an impressive 300 bhp of power. This engine, mounted between the rear wheels, had a capacity of 2.9 liters and utilized oscillating pistons. An electronically controlled generator managed the steam supply, optimizing the engine's performance. The engine's remarkable torque at low speeds eliminated the need for a clutch or gearbox, showcasing the innovative engineering behind the GVANG Steamer prototype.

The GVANG Steamer was a lightweight prototype with a steel frame chassis and aluminum bodywork by Sydney-based Hadley coachworks. (Picture from: PostWarClassic)

As written on the brochure, the GVANG Steamer's specifications included a lightweight flash steam engine with 300 bhp, a flat torque curve from rest, and dimensions of 163.5 inches in length, 65 inches in width, 38 inches in height, and a 113-inch wheelbase. The car had a 54-inch track, weighed 13.5 hundredweight, and featured 9-inch wheels, Firestone 10-15-15 Indy High-Speed tires, and Girling 11-inch brakes.

The GVANG Steamer's specifications included a lightweight flash steam engine with 300 bhp, a flat torque curve from rest, and dimensions of 163.5 inches in length, 65 inches in width, 38 inches in height, and a 113-inch wheelbase. (Picture from: Classic and Recreation Sportscars)

The GVANG's sleek aluminum body was first presented at the Sydney International Motor Show in 1972. While the vehicle was complete, its power plant was still being refined and tested on a chassis dynamometer. Despite these ambitious plans, this concept car received a warm welcome from visitors, and the Sydney media covered it extensively.

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Despite uncertainties about the engine's development, the project was eventually halted, and the body and chassis were sold at auction. It is believed that the GVANG's chassis and body remain in Australia, possibly in the Blue Mountains near Sydney. Rumors suggest that Shell Oil Company acquired the engine technology. | Yl2zkf7PfLs |

Although the GVANG Steamer never entered production due to financial constraints, it remains a captivating chapter in automotive history. This innovative vehicle highlighted the potential of alternative power sources and continues to inspire those who dream of a future where sustainability and high performance coexist seamlessly. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS | CAR MECHANIC | THE SIDNEY MORNING HERALD | CARTEFACTS | STEAMENGINEFANDOM | BOLLYBLOG | WEIRDWHEELD | AUTONXT ]

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