Forgotten ICON - The sight of Isuzu's logo on countless commercial vehicles might lead many to believe the company has always been dedicated solely to producing trucks and buses. This perception is understandable, given that Isuzu has focused exclusively on commercial vehicles for over a decade and a half. However, before shifting entirely to this market in 2008, Isuzu had a rich history of manufacturing passenger cars and SUVs.
The Isuzu Piazza is the production version of the Italdesign Asso di Fiori, sold in Japan, made debut in September 1980. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Italdesign Asso di Fiori, a striking prototype that
debuted at the 1979 Tokyo Motor Show, served as the forerunner to the
Isuzu Piazza (Impulse).(Picture from: Carbuzz)
The origins of this distinctive car can be traced back to the collaboration between Isuzu and Italdesign, the renowned Italian design house founded by Giorgetto Giugiaro. Giugiaro, a visionary in automotive styling, had already left his mark on the industry with iconic designs such as the De Tomaso Mangusta, the Lotus Esprit, and the first-generation Volkswagen Golf.
The Italdesign Asso di Fiori, a striking prototype that
debuted at the 1979 Tokyo Motor Show, served as the forerunner to the
Isuzu Piazza (Impulse).(Picture from: Carbuzz)
When Isuzu sought a successor to its 117 Coupe, the company turned to Italdesign for a fresh and modern concept. The result was the Asso di Fiori (means Ace of Clubs), a striking prototype that debuted at the 1979 Tokyo Motor Show. The public reception was overwhelmingly positive, and Isuzu wasted no time in pushing the car into production with minimal changes.
For the North American market, Isuzu rebranded the car as
the Isuzu Impulse, launching its first generation in 1983, featured a
sleek, aerodynamic design and a rear-wheel-drive layout.(Picture from: Carbuzz)
In Japan, this new model was introduced as the Isuzu Piazza, a name it retained in several international markets. However, in the United States, it was rebranded as the Isuzu Impulse, while in Australia, it was sold under the Holden Piazza badge.
Isuzu entered the North American market and also introduced the car to Australia in 1985 under the name Holden Piazza.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
The first-generation model, which began production in 1981, and launched in North American market in 1983, featured a sleek, aerodynamic design and a rear-wheel-drive layout. It quickly gained a reputation for its engaging driving experience, a quality enhanced further by the involvement of Lotus in fine-tuning its suspension system. This partnership ensured that the Impulse was not only visually appealing but also handled exceptionally well.
In the early 1990s, Isuzu launched the 2nd Generation Impulse in North America and introduced it to Canadian market as the Asüna Sunfire in 1993.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
The second generation of the Isuzu Impulse arrived in 1990, bringing significant changes. Unlike its predecessor, which had a rear-wheel-drive setup, the new model offered both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. While this generation maintained a sporty character, it struggled to capture the same level of enthusiasm as the original. Despite its capabilities, sales remained low, and production ceased after just four years, marking the end of the Impulse nameplate.
Although the Isuzu Impulse never achieved widespread popularity, its impact remains significant among automotive enthusiasts. With a design crafted by one of Italy’s most influential designers and performance refined with Lotus engineering, it embodied a rare fusion of artistry and precision. Today, the Impulse is a rare sight, with only a few examples remaining in North America. Despite its limited numbers, the car's legacy endures as a testament to Isuzu’s brief yet memorable foray into the world of stylish and dynamic passenger vehicles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARBUZZ | CARANDDRIVER | DRIVELINE | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Mechanical Unicorn - Sometimes, the automotive world surprises us with machines so rare and so full of character that they feel less like cars and more like mechanical legends. In the world of high-performance convertibles, one particular creation stands out not only for its jaw-dropping specifications but also for its incredible backstory—a machine that never officially existed in the Porsche catalog, yet is very much real: the one-of-a-kind Porsche 959 Cabriolet.
The Porsche 959 Cabriolet began as a Silver Metallic 959 ‘Komfort’ with a Cashmere Beige and Black leather interior, originally owned by German race driver Jürgen Lässig until an Autobahn crash led him to sell it to visionary craftsman Karl-Heinz Feustel, who transformed it into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. (Picture from: TopGear)
To understand the significance of this remarkable car, it helps to appreciate where it all began. The Porsche 959 was never meant to be ordinary. Conceived during the 1980s as a Group B rally monster, it was Porsche’s technological leap into the future. The production version came out of necessity due to homologation rules requiring a road-going counterpart. What emerged was a vehicle that defied the norm—a street-legal supercar with a 2.8-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, all-wheel drive, and innovations that would echo through Porsche’s future lineups. At launch, it was the fastest street-legal production car in the world, a masterstroke of engineering wrapped in a sleek, futuristic shell.
The Porsche 959 Cabriolet finished in Grand Prix White with a blue soft-top roof over a blue leather interior. (Picture from: TopGear)
But the story takes a rare twist in 1988, when one of these marvels—a 959 “Komfort”variant painted in Silver Metallic and a two-tone Cashmere Beige and Black leather interior—was delivered to Jürgen Lässig, a seasoned race car driver with serious credentials, including a podium finish at Le Mans. Not long after taking ownership, Lässigwas involved in a major autobahn accident, leaving the once-pristine supercar badly damaged. Rather than consigning it to the scrapyard, he sold the remains to someone with both the vision and the skill to transform tragedy into triumph: Karl-Heinz Feustel.
The Porsche 959 ‘Speedster’ conversion exhibited at the 1989 Frankfurt International Motor Show and 1989 Essen Motor Show. (Picture from: TopGear)
Feustel wasn’t just a Porsche enthusiast—he was a respected racer and the owner of a Porsche tuning and repair shop near Cologne. Over the course of 4,000 meticulous hours, he not only restored the broken 959 but did something no one had ever attempted: he turned it into a convertible. What resulted is nothing short of extraordinary—a fully roadworthy Porsche 959 Cabriolet, finished in striking Grand Prix White with a reimagined interior in elegant blue leather accented by streaks of grey and cream.
The Porsche 959 Cabriolet was fitted with a meticulously crafted custom interior, elegantly trimmed in rich blue leather for a truly distinctive look.(Picture from: TopGear)
Feustel’s custom craftsmanship didn’t stop at removing the roof. The car also received a removable hardtop, a soft tonneau cover, and even an interchangeable “Speedster” windscreen with extra side mirrors—details that reflect both aesthetic flair and thoughtful functionality. Displayed at prestigious auto shows in Frankfurt and Essen in 1989, the cabriolet immediately drew attention for looking as if it had rolled straight out of Porsche’s own design studio.
The Porsche 959 Cabriolet powered by a blistering 444 horsepower twin-turbo engine, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. (Picture from: TopGear)
Mechanically, the soul of the 959 remains intact. That means the blistering 444 horsepower twin-turbo engine is still at the heart of the car, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox and the original lightweight chassis. With a 0–62 mph time under four seconds and a top speed approaching 197 mph, this cabriolet is not just a looker—it’s a legitimate performance machine that rivals many of today’s elite supercars.
The Porsche 959 Cabriolet features a blue soft top and matching tonneau cover, and also includes a removable white hard top for added versatility. (Picture from: TopGear)
Having covered only around 5,150 miles over the past 30-plus years, the car remains in pristine condition. Now, it’s reappearing in the spotlight with RM Sotheby’s, set to be auctioned in Milan. With an estimated value between £1.27 million and £1.7 million, this one-off Porsche 959 Cabriolet isn’t just a collector’s item—it’s a piece of automotive history, a symbol of innovation, resilience, and passion. | X8U4bmivS94 |
For those fortunate enough to be in the market for something truly unique, this isn't just a rare convertible—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a car that embodies everything Porsche stands for, yet dares to be something entirely its own.*** [EKA [09022014] | FROM VARIOSUS SOURCES | RMSOTHEBYS | TOPGEAR | ROBBREPORT | AUTOS.YAHOO | ROADANDTRACK ]
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Retro Reinvented- In a world where automotive design constantly reinvents itself, blending nostalgia with innovation has become more than just a trend — it’s a movement. Across showrooms and social media feeds, we’ve seen a revival of classic forms given new life through modern engineering. Yet, few efforts have achieved the level of visual curiosity sparked by a rare find that once graced the timeline of car collector Myron Vernis on X. The striking silhouette that caught our attention wasn’t just another Corvette; it was the 2002 Chevrolet Corvette Avelate Coupe — a bold reinterpretation of America’s sports car that tells a story deeper than its fiberglass curves.
The Chevrolet Corvette Avelate Coupe is a bold reinterpretation of America’s sports car, born from the creative minds of Dean Arnold and Don Johnson, with a story that runs deeper than its fiberglass curves. (Picture from: MyronVernis on X)
The journey of the Avelate Coupe begins in the creative mind of Dean “Dino” Arnold, a respected name in the custom hot rod scene. Arnold wasn’t content with the design direction of the late-'90s fifth-generation Corvette, known to enthusiasts as the C5. While the car introduced impressive technological advancements like the LS engine series and modern aerodynamics, Arnold longed for the sculpted elegance of the Sting Ray era from the 1960s. He envisioned a Corvette that paid homage to those iconic design cues while benefiting from the mechanical brilliance of the new millennium.
The Chevrolet Corvette Avelate Coupe was built from a stock C5 Corvette, with nearly every exterior panel replaced by custom fiberglass pieces inspired by European grand tourers and classic mid-century Corvette design.(Picture from: Motortopia)
To bring this vision to life, Arnold reached out to Don Johnson, a designer with a background at General Motors and a passion for the 1963–67 Sting Ray aesthetic. Johnson had already been sketching his interpretation of a retro-modern Vette, and it didn’t take long for both minds to sync. What emerged from their collaboration was more than a design study — it was the foundation of a boutique automotive venture known as Avelate Automotive.
The Chevrolet Corvette Avelate Coupe's cabin features modern amenities such as a heads-up display, sport seats, dual-zone electronic air conditioning, and a Bose sound system, all wrapped in a leather-trimmed interior—shown here in blue to match the exterior.(Picture from: LSXMag)
Built in Arnold’s 5,000-square-foot facility in Tacoma, Washington, the Avelate conversion process began with a stock C5 Corvette. Almost every exterior panel was replaced with custom fiberglass pieces inspired by European grand tourers and mid-century Corvette DNA. Only a handful of original elements remained, such as the mirrors, lower valance, and door handles. Most notably, a fiberglass cap was added over the rear glass to mimic the legendary split-window design of the 1963 Corvette coupe — a nod that didn’t go unnoticed by purists and design enthusiasts alike.
The unique and distinctive look of the Chevrolet Corvette Avelate Coupe was clearly showcased in one of its promotional leaflets when it debuted to the public in 2002.(Picture from: LSXMag)
Production of the Avelate Coupe began in 2001, and despite its show-stopping appearance and unique craftsmanship, only 27 units were ever made. Avelate Automotive lacked the marketing infrastructure and dealer support necessary to grow its presence. With only two Chevrolet dealerships officially offering the model, the business struggled to find footing in a competitive market.
The Chevrolet Corvette Avelate Coupe features a fiberglass cap over the stock rear window, creating the illusion of a split-window coupe while also functioning as a trunk lid underneath.(Picture from: LSXMag)
In 2003, a glimmer of hope emerged when businessman John Rothman partnered with Avelate Automotive, commissioning another custom Corvette project. Unfortunately, internal disagreements led to a legal battle that ultimately closed Avelate’s doors in July 2004. It was a quiet ending for a company that had aimed to redefine the Corvette landscape through artistry and bold vision.
The Chevrolet Corvette Avelate Coupe has the split window, which is a direct call to the iconic 1963 Corvette, the only year the split window was actually made at the factory. (Picture from: MyronVernis on X)
Even though Avelate Automotive faded from the scene, the efforts behind it did not go unrecognized. Dean Arnold was later inducted into the National Rod and Custom Car Hall of Fame and honored as the 2009 Builder of the Year — a well-deserved accolade that cemented his place in the world of custom car culture. Don Johnson, too, continued exploring design, keeping the spirit of the Avelate alive in form, if not in name. | 6BfJgnVMeVs |
Today, the 2002 Chevrolet Corvette Avelate Coupe stands as a rare artifact of an era when creativity met capability in the most daring of ways. Its existence may have been fleeting, but its impact remains — a testament to the idea that some cars are more than machines; they’re stories molded in metal and glass, crafted by those who dare to reimagine what’s possible.
Would you like me to help track down one of the remaining Avelate Coupes or share how its legacy influences Corvette customs today? *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MECUM | LSXMAG | CORVSPORT | MOTORTOPIA | MYRONVERNIS ON X | CARBUZZ | MOTORIOUS ]
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Stunning ONES - When discussing iconic sports cars, Ferrari often comes to mind. This legendary Italian brand has a rich history of crafting high-performance vehicles that blend elegance, speed, and innovation. Among the many models in Ferrari’s lineup, the Ferrari 458 Italia stands out as a symbol of modern engineering and design.
The Ferrari 458 Italia, introduced as the successor to the F430, takes the brand's heritage and moves it forward with impressive technological advancements. (Picture from: ZigWheels)
The Ferrari 458, introduced as the successor to the F430, takes the brand's heritage and moves it forward with impressive technological advancements, ensuring it captures the attention of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. The Ferrari 458 Italia made its grand debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, marking a significant leap forward in Ferrari’s long line of high-performance vehicles.
The small aeroelastic winglets generate downforce and, as speed rises, deform to reduce the section of the radiator intake and cut drag. (Picture from: ZigWheels)
The design was heavily influenced by both the Enzo Ferrari and the Millechili concept, bringing elements of the past into a future-focused package. Its initial price of $239,340 reflected its premium standing, but given that production has ceased, current market prices may have risen. Ferrari's ability to combine their extensive racing knowledge with road-legal vehicles is evident in every detail of the 458, creating a sports car that doesn't just look stunning but performs at the highest level.
The Ferrari 458 Italia design was heavily influenced by both the Enzo Ferrari and the Millechili concept, bringing elements of the past into a future-focused package. (Picture from: ZigWheels)
Ferrari has long been associated with exceptional design, and the 458 Italia is no exception. Under the direction of Donato Coco, Ferrari's design head in 2009, the body was shaped by Pininfarina, the famed design house responsible for many of Ferrari’s most recognizable models. The car’s sharp lines and large air intakes not only give it a sleek, aggressive look but also serve functional purposes, channeling air to cool the powerful engine within. The triple exhaust system at the rear further enhances the vehicle’s striking appearance, making the 458 a visual masterpiece. Its forged wheels and racing seats add to the aesthetic, while the iconic prancing horse logo serves as a constant reminder of Ferrari's legendary status.
The cabin of the Ferrari 458 Italia, adorned with a mix of leather, carbon fiber, and premium materials, feels modern and stylish while maintaining comfort. (Picture from: Parkers.co.uk)
Turning to the interior, Ferrari enlisted Bertrand Rapatel, the director of Ferrari Interior Design, to craft a driver-focused cabin. The result is a combination of luxury and performance-driven design. With a mix of leather, carbon fiber, and premium materials, the interior feels modern and stylish without compromising on comfort. Central to the dashboard is a colored touchscreen display, which not only provides entertainment but also offers crucial vehicle information and navigation tools. For those who crave more than just speed, the 458 also includes an optional premium audio system, allowing drivers to enjoy a high-quality audio experience alongside the roar of its powerful engine.
The Ferrari 458 Italia is powered by a mid-mounted, F1-inspired 4.5-liter V8 engine that produces 562 horsepower, enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The heart of the Ferrari 458 lies in its 4.5-liter V8 engine. This F1-inspired powerhouse produces 562 horsepower, allowing the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. Direct fuel injection technology, a first for Ferrari road cars, helps make the engine both powerful and efficient. With a top speed of 498.8 km/h, this car isn’t just about quick starts—it’s built for long stretches of high-speed performance. The Ferrari 458’s seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission ensures smooth and rapid gear changes, making every drive a thrilling experience.
The triple exhaust system at the 458 Italia's rear further enhances the vehicle’s striking appearance. (Picture from: ZigWheels)
The 458 Italia’s advanced engineering extends beyond its engine. Its braking system, inspired by Ferrari's Formula 1 technology, uses carbon-ceramic material (CCM) for superior stopping power. This braking system provides the kind of confidence one needs when driving at high speeds, ensuring that the car handles impeccably under all conditions. Additionally, Ferrari's F1-Trac traction control system is included, optimizing control and ensuring stability during sharp accelerations. The E-Diff system, a limited-slip differential, helps distribute power more effectively to the rear wheels, allowing for better handling and traction when navigating corners.
The Ferrari 458 Italia’s advanced engineering extends beyond its engine, as its braking system, inspired by Ferrari's Formula 1 technology, uses carbon-ceramic material (CCM) for superior stopping power. (Picture from: ZigWheels)
With over 30 international awards to its name, the Ferrari 458 Italia has been a resounding success both on the road and in the automotive community. Its V8 engine received accolades such as "Best Performance Engine" and "Best Engine Above 4 Litres" at the International Engine of the Year Awards. This recognition speaks not only to the power and capability of the 458 but also to Ferrari's enduring commitment to excellence in every vehicle they produce. The combination of cutting-edge technology, luxury, and performance has made the Ferrari 458 Italia a standout in the sports car world, and it continues to capture the imagination of enthusiasts long after production has ended.
In conclusion, the Ferrari 458 Italia represents the pinnacle of Ferrari's expertise in design, engineering, and performance. It is not just a car but a symbol of what the brand stands for—speed, innovation, and timeless beauty. Whether admired for its exterior lines, its luxurious interior, or its race-inspired powertrain, the Ferrari 458 remains an unforgettable chapter in the story of Italian automotive history. This car will forever be remembered as a defining moment in Ferrari's journey to push the boundaries of what is possible in a road-legal vehicle. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | WIKIPEDIA | ZIGWHEELS | PARKERS.CO.UK ]
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Electric Foreshadowing - In an era when tailfins and V8 engines dominated American roads, the idea of a small electric car seemed more like science fiction than an industry goal. Yet within the design studios of Ford in the early 1960s, there were hints—subtle, easily overlooked—that some minds were already drifting toward a different kind of future. Among those whispers of change stood the Astrion, a concept cloaked in mystery and layered intention.
The Ford Astrion Concept's proportions suggested performance; and its styling hinted at a sleeker evolution of the Thunderbird.(Picture from: Hemmings)
At first glance, the Ford Astrion didn’t scream “electric.” Its proportions suggested performance; its styling hinted at a sleeker evolution of the Thunderbird. The sharp haunches, formal roofline, and sculpted sides looked like they belonged to a grand touring coupe. But behind that stylish exterior, a second, lesser-known chapter adds new depth to the story.
The
Ford Astrion Concept features sharp haunches, formal roofline, and
sculpted sides looked like they belonged to a grand touring coupe.(Picture from: Hemmings)
After the completion of the 1961 Lincoln Continental project, Ford's Roy Lunn initiated a small, internal experiment. He approached the Styling department to develop a compact electric vehicle—an idea radically ahead of its time.
Behind the stylish exterior of the Ford Astrion Concept lies a lesser-known chapter that adds depth to Ford’s earliest visions of a personal, possibly electric future—shaped not by specs or features, but by form, emotion, and the freedom to dream.(Picture from: Hemmings)
Under the guidance of Elwood Engel, the project was assigned to designers Colin Neale and Alex Tremulis, with Gale Halderman supervising. What followed was an unusual and clever design exercise: the team sculpted a single clay model and split it down the middle. Neale designed one half, calling it the Firefly, while Tremulis and Halderman shaped the other. | 9r7wy1k97oo |
Both sides were compelling enough to move forward. The designs were cast in fiberglass, and a prototype was created—outfitted with a small electric motor and battery. Initially called the Astrion, the tiny car was later renamed the Hummingbird. Despite its top speed of just five miles per hour, the Hummingbird served a memorable role: ferrying Bill Ford across the cobblestone courtyard at Ford’s facilities.
This might have been the Hummingbird, a compact vehicle—possibly envisioned as an EV—initiated by Roy Lunn after the 1961 Lincoln Continental project as a quiet internal experiment within Ford’s Styling department. (Picture from: Concept Cars & More on Facebook)
What makes this especially interesting is the name “Astrion” itself. While the sleek coupe and the electric Hummingbird appear unrelated in form, they may share something deeper—an origin rooted in imagination rather than production intent. The name might not have been model-specific, but rather an internal label passed around to represent bold, experimental thinking. In this light, the Astrion becomes more than a mystery car; it becomes a symbol of Ford’s willingness to explore what came next.
Roy Lunn’s team crafted a single clay model, splitting it down the middle—Neale designed one side, naming it the Firefly, while Tremulis and Halderman shaped the other. (Picture from: Concept Cars & More on Facebook)
Looking back, the Astrion’s story straddles two very different interpretations. One is sculptural and expressive—a design vision that may have flirted with Thunderbird lineage. The other is technical and humble—a quiet electric prototype made not for showrooms, but for curiosity’s sake. Both are valuable. And the coincidence of them sharing a name may not be a coincidence at all.
Furthermore, the designs were cast in fiberglass, and a prototype was built—equipped with a small electric motor and battery.
(Picture from: Hemmings)
So while the automotive world looks back at the Astrion and wonders whether it was a sporty Thunderbird offshoot or just another unused design, maybe it’s worth looking at it differently. Maybe the Astrion was one of Ford’s earliest visualizations of what a personal, possibly electric vehicle of the future might look like—not through the lens of specs or features, but through form, feeling, and the freedom to dream.
The
electric Hummingbird, though seemingly unrelated in form to the sleek
Astrion coupe, may share a deeper origin rooted in imagination over
intent. (Picture from: Hemmings)
And if that's the case, then the Astrion was never "just a concept car." It was the start of a conversation Ford designers would keep having—quietly at first, then loudly, decades later—about how we move forward, and what it means to drive tomorrow. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HEMMINGS | EN.WHEELAGE.ORG | CONCEPT CARS & MORE ON FACEBOOK ]
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Legend Reborn - Automobiles have always been more than just a mode of transportation; they represent history, engineering marvels, and in some cases, cultural icons. Among the many legendary vehicles that have left their mark on the automotive world, the Lancia Delta Integrale holds a special place in the hearts of rally enthusiasts.
The Lancia Delta Futurista, created by Automobili Amos, pays tribute to the legendary Lancia Delta Integrale.(Picture from: idMotor1)
This iconic car, known for its dominance in motorsports, has been given a new life thanks to Automobili Amos, an Italian company dedicated to reviving classic vehicles with modern technology. Their ambitious project, the Lancia Delta Futurista, was a tribute to the golden era of rally racing, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge craftsmanship.
When it debuted in 2018, the Lancia Delta Futurista featured the iconic Martini Racing livery. (Picture from: idMotor1)
When Automobili Amos introduced the Lancia Delta Futurista in 2018, it was met with enthusiasm and admiration from car aficionados. The project aimed to breathe new life into the original Delta Integrale by transforming it into a modern-day masterpiece while retaining the essence that made the original so beloved. Unlike conventional restorations, this was a full-fledged restomod, incorporating extensive modifications to both the exterior and interior. Despite its remarkable appeal, the company decided to limit production to only 20 units, making it an exclusive collector’s item.
The Lancia Delta Futurista features a refined interior with red Alcantara on the seats, dashboard, and door panels, enhancing both luxury and sportiness. (Picture from: idMotor1)
After four years, the final Delta Futurista made its debut, adorned in an unmistakable Martini Racing livery. This distinctive design featured a white base color accented with red and blue racing stripes, paying homage to Lancia’s victorious past in rally history. On the rear spoiler, the words "Martini Legacy" stood proudly, emphasizing the deep connection between this car and its racing heritage. Every detail of the Futurista was carefully designed to balance aesthetics and performance, ensuring it remained a true embodiment of the legendary Delta Integrale.
The Lancia Delta Futurista is meticulously crafted with lightweight carbon fiber, replacing the original steel components to significantly reduce weight. (Picture from: idMotor1)
Automobili Amos meticulously crafted the Futurista with lightweight materials, replacing the original steel components with carbon fiber to reduce weight significantly. The bumpers, hood, trunk, rear spoiler, and even the engine cover were all constructed from this advanced material, helping the car achieve an impressive weight of just 1,250 kilograms (2,755 pounds). These weight-saving measures contributed to improved handling and agility, making the car feel more dynamic and responsive on the road.
Under the hood, the Delta Futurista packed a powerful punch. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine underwent extensive modifications, including upgraded internal components and a refined turbo system. The result was an output of 330 horsepower (243 kilowatts), all delivered to an all-wheel-drive system similar to the original Delta Integrale. This boost in performance, combined with a redesigned suspension featuring two-stage dampers, allowed the Futurista to offer a more exhilarating driving experience while maintaining the rally spirit of its predecessor.
The Lancia Delta Safarista became Automobili Amos’ next project after the Delta Futurista, designed as a hardcore off-road version inspired by the 1988 Safari Rally-winning Delta. (Picture from: AutomobiliAmos)
Inside the cabin, Automobili Amos elevated the Futurista’s luxury and sportiness. The interior was adorned with red Alcantara, covering the seats, dashboard, and door panels, adding both style and comfort. Aluminum pedals and custom-made door panels further emphasized the car’s premium yet performance-oriented nature. Every detail inside was carefully curated to create a cockpit that felt both modern and connected to the Delta’s racing lineage.
Following the completion of the Delta Futurista, Automobili Amos shifted its focus to a new project: the Lancia Delta Safarista. Unlike the Futurista, which aimed for a refined balance of heritage and modernity, the Safarista was designed as a hardcore off-road version inspired by the legendary Delta that conquered the 1988 Safari Rally. It featured a simpler two-tone paint scheme and was even more limited in production, with only 10 units planned. With a price tag of €570,000 per unit, this off-road beast catered to a niche audience seeking extreme rally-inspired performance.
The Lancia Delta Futurista, one of 20 units produced, has a notable owner in Joel, a car enthusiast, whose model is one of four specially built versions with official documentation for legal import into the United States. (Picture from: NMAA)
Among the 20 Delta Futurista units produced, one notable owner is a passionate car enthusiast named Joel. His particular model is one of four specially built versions that retain official documentation, allowing it to be legally imported into the United States. Despite the modern enhancements, the car still proudly retains the unmistakable silhouette of the original Delta Integrale, preserving its historical significance while embracing innovation.
Inside Joel’s Delta Futurista, vintage charm and modern craftsmanship blended seamlessly, with brown leather seats and an Alcantara-wrapped dashboard creating a luxurious, driver-focused atmosphere. (Picture from: NMAA)
Inside Joel’s Delta Futurista, a blend of vintage charm and modern craftsmanship was evident. The cabin featured brown leather seats paired with an Alcantara-wrapped dashboard, maintaining a luxurious yet driver-focused ambiance. While most of the interior components were carefully restored to retain their authenticity, the meticulous attention to detail elevated the Futurista into a class of its own.
The Lancia Delta Futurista features a refined 2.0-liter engine with a custom Motec ECU, enabling the driver to adjust performance settings and boosting power to an exhilarating 350 horsepower. (Picture from: NMAA)
For Joel, owning this piece of automotive history was more than just an acquisition—it was the realization of a lifelong dream. He described his Delta Futurista as a "walking dream," a testament to the passion and dedication behind Automobili Amos’ vision. With only a handful of these exceptional cars in existence, each one represents a unique fusion of past and present, preserving the spirit of the Lancia Delta Integrale for future generations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOMOBILIAMOS | ID.MOTOR1 | NMAA ]
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Although the Isuzu Impulse never achieved widespread popularity, its impact remains significant among automotive enthusiasts. With a design crafted by one of Italy’s most influential designers and performance refined with Lotus engineering, it embodied a rare fusion of artistry and precision. Today, the Impulse is a rare sight, with only a few examples remaining in North America. Despite its limited numbers, the car's legacy endures as a testament to Isuzu’s brief yet memorable foray into the world of stylish and dynamic passenger vehicles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARBUZZ | CARANDDRIVER | DRIVELINE | WIKIPEDIA ]
