The Midnight Ghost: When Myth Meets Machine

What-If - Some stories are so beautiful, you almost wish they were true. The Duesenberg Coupé Simone 'Midnight Ghost' is one of those tales—an elegant phantom in the world of automotive lore, floating between legend and reality. On the surface, it’s the perfect narrative: a mysterious one-off luxury car, crafted in secrecy, gifted out of passion, then lost to the shadows of war. But peel back the layers, and the picture becomes less clear… and far more interesting.

The Duesenberg Simone Coupé 'Midnight Ghost' isn’t a real car, but a 1:24 scale die-cast model created by Franklin Mint. (Picture from: CustomCarChronicle)

The story begins with all the right ingredients. Set in the late 1930s, the Midnight Ghost was supposedly commissioned by French cosmetics magnate Gui De LaRouche as a romantic gesture for his lover, Simone. Built over three years by the fictional-sounding Emmet-Armand Coachworks of Green Brier, Pennsylvania, the car was to be Duesenberg’s swan song—a final triumph of Art Deco design and American muscle.

The Duesenberg Simone Coupé 'Midnight Ghost' isn’t a real car, but a 1:24 scale die-cast model created by Franklin Mint. (Picture from: CustomCarChronicle)

According to the myth, the vehicle featured an impossibly long and graceful body, a 6.9-liter supercharged V8 pushing out 265 bhp, and even a clear crystal steering wheel. It dazzled on the streets of Paris, roared past 120 mph on a twilight drive, and vanished mysteriously during World War II—perhaps hidden from the Nazis, or lost to time forever. It’s a story made for film.

But here’s the twist: there’s no evidence the Midnight Ghost ever existed.

No production records. No factory photos. No surviving chassis numbers. Not even a credible period news article. What does exist is a 1:24 scale die-cast model made by Franklin Mint—a collector’s item, beautifully crafted, and seemingly inspired by nothing more than pure imagination. And that’s where things get complicated.

(Image shown for illustration purposes only.) In early 2023, TECfusions Fabrication—a Pennsylvania-based workshop led by renowned American autobuilder Greg Martin—announced plans to build a full-scale version of this elegant phantom in the very state where the story first began. (Picture from: Autoweek)

Some enthusiasts argue that the existence of the scale model proves there was once a full-sized prototype. Others insist the model came first, along with the fantastical backstory, created to romanticize a limited-edition collectible. Franklin Mint has a history of doing just that—creating lore around their products to spark emotional connection and drive sales. So which is it? 

On one side, we have dreamers and romantics who want to believe the Midnight Ghost lived once, if only briefly. After all, the design feels too emotionally charged to be purely fictional. It captures something real—the spirit of pre-war luxury, the boldness of Deco-era style, the kind of passion-fueled craftsmanship that defined the best Duesenbergs.

The bodywork of the Duesenberg Coupé Simone 'Midnight Ghost,' envisioned and brought to life in an ambitious effort by TECfusions Fabrication—a Pennsylvania-based workshop located in the very state where the story first began. (Picture from: TECFusions Fabrication in Facebook)

On the other side, there are historians, collectors, and researchers who rely on documented facts—and the truth, as they see it, is straightforward: there’s no trace of such a car in Duesenberg’s official records. The names, locations, and events tied to its story have no verifiable links to actual automotive history. According to them, the Midnight Ghost is nothing more than a beautiful fabrication—likely a carefully crafted narrative designed to captivate diecast enthusiasts and drive collector interest.

So where does that leave us?

Interestingly, in a space where both perspectives might hold some truth. The Midnight Ghost may never have existed in metal and rubber, but it lives vividly in the imagination—born from a love of classic craftsmanship and compelling storytelling. Its design is admired, debated, even yearned for. And perhaps that’s exactly the point.

The bodywork process of the future Duesenberg Coupé Simone 'Midnight Ghost,' carried out by TECfusions Fabrication. (Picture from: TECFusions Fabrication in Facebook)

While most cars are made to be driven, this one was made to be dreamed about. Whether it’s an elaborate narrative created to elevate a collectible, or an unrealized concept waiting for the right hands to build it, the Duesenberg Coupé Simone 'Midnight Ghost' captures something elusive—magic. 

A closer look at the completed rear bodywork of the upcoming Duesenberg Coupé Simone 'Midnight Ghost,' built by TECfusions Fabrication. (Picture from: TECFusions Fabrication in Facebook)

If someday, a coachbuilder, a passionate collector, or a bold design studio chooses to bring it to life in full scale, it wouldn’t be the first time fantasy became reality. Until then, the Midnight Ghost will remain exactly what its name suggests: a shadow, a story, a presence that lingers in the corners of automotive imagination.

 

Interestingly, that dream almost began to take shape. In early 2023, TECfusions Fabrication—a Pennsylvania-based workshop located in the very state where the story was originally set—spearheaded by famous American autobuilder Greg Martin, announced plans to build a full-scale version of this elegant phantom. | Nu5cwgyzMbw |

Unfortunately, updates have been scarce. As time passes, no confirmed progress has emerged, and the Duesenberg Coupé Simone continues to drift as an unfulfilled promise, quietly suspended between fiction and reality. For now, we can only wait and wonder. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TECFUSIONS FABRICATION IN INSTAGRAM | DIESELPUNKS | WEB.ARCHIVE.ORG | ANGELFIRE | AUTOWEEK | CUSTOMCARCHRONICLE | CLASSICCARCURATION IN FACEBOOK | TECFUSIONS FABRICATION IN FACEBOOK ]

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Meet the All-New Ferrari Amalfi: A Bold Successor to the Roma

Refined Ferocity - There’s something timelessly captivating about the Italian coast—the gentle curves of the cliffs, the soft breeze off the sea, the blend of luxury and leisure in every corner of Amalfi. Ferrari, no stranger to combining beauty and power, channels this same feeling into its latest creation. Introducing the Ferrari Amalfi, a new chapter for the legendary marque that doesn’t just embrace the essence of a relaxed lifestyle but redefines what it means to drive with elegance and purpose.

The All-New Ferrari Amalfi, a new chapter for the legendary marque that doesn’t just embrace the essence of a relaxed lifestyle but redefines what it means to drive with elegance and purpose. (Picture from: TopGear)

The Ferrari Amalfi marks a bold step forward as the successor to the Roma, continuing the “Dolce Vita” philosophy but with even sharper character. While Roma introduced a new breed of front-engine grand tourers, Amalfi evolves the concept with a deeper focus on performance, design clarity, and driver connection. This isn’t just a new Ferrari—it’s a distilled vision of everything the brand stands for, made more accessible, but no less thrilling.

The All-New Ferrari Amalfi marks a bold step forward as the successor to the Roma, continuing the “Dolce Vita” philosophy but with even sharper character. (Picture from: TopGear)

Visually, the changes are immediately striking. Under the direction of Flavio Manzoni, the Ferrari design team has transformed the Roma’s form into something purer and more athletic. Gone is the otherworldly grille, replaced by a cleaner, more aggressive nose with a pointed front panel and a traditional black mesh grille. Headlights are sleeker, framed by darkened panels that cleverly disguise air intakes for better cooling. The whole front end now feels grounded, powerful, and more in line with Ferrari’s legacy of design precision.

The all-new Ferrari Amalfi retains the Roma’s graceful side profile, but dramatically upgrades the rear with a boldly exposed, functional active spoiler. (Picture from: TopGear)

Along the sides, the Amalfi retains much of Roma’s graceful profile, but it's the rear that gets the biggest upgrade. The new active spoiler now sits at the car’s edge—visible, confident, and functional. It adjusts across three levels, responding to speed and driving demands, working in harmony with a beefier carbon fiber diffuser that completes the athletic look. It’s subtle when still, but dynamic when in motion—just like the Amalfi coast it’s named after.

The all-new Ferrari Amalfi continues its evolution inside by reintroducing physical steering wheel controls in response to driver feedback, replacing the less intuitive touch-sensitive interfaces. (Picture from: TopGear)

But Ferrari hasn’t stopped at aesthetics. Underneath the sculpted body lies the familiar yet enhanced 3.9-liter turbocharged V8 engine, now delivering 640 cv (630 hp) and 760 Nm of torque. This powerplant has seen an evolution, featuring a new flat-plane crankshaft and a refined ECU developed with Bosch, offering improved response across the rev range. Acceleration from 0–100 km/h is achieved in just 3.3 seconds—shaving off a precious 0.1 seconds from its predecessor. This isn’t just about speed, though—it’s about control, character, and feel. 

The all-new Ferrari Amalfi houses a familiar yet enhanced 3.9-liter turbocharged V8 engine, now tuned to produce 640 cv (630 hp) and 760 Nm of torque. (Picture from: TopGear)

Ferrari’s engineers didn’t stop at the engine. Driving dynamics receive a significant boost thanks to the adoption of the BBW (brake-by-wire) system, the latest ABS Evo, and the sophisticated SSC 6.1 side slip control system. These technologies make the Amalfi not only fast but also poised, giving drivers a confident edge whether cruising coastlines or carving through tight corners. 

 

Step inside, and the evolution continues. Responding to feedback from real drivers, Ferrari has brought back physical controls on the steering wheel, abandoning touch-sensitive interfaces that proved less intuitive. It’s a nod to traditional driving engagement—clear, tactile, and focused. The infotainment screen now takes on a wider, landscape layout, positioned lower for better ergonomics. The center console sits more comfortably within reach, while the cabin is elevated with anodized aluminum trim—a sustainable material that’s as refined as it is responsible. 

The all-new Ferrari Amalfi features its most significant upgrade at the rear, where a prominent active spoiler—now positioned at the edge—adjusts across three levels based on speed and driving demands, working seamlessly with a more muscular carbon fiber diffuser to enhance its athletic presence. (Picture from: TopGear)

Ferrari’s aim with the Amalfi is simple yet ambitious: to strip away unnecessary complexity and focus on what matters—style, performance, and a pure connection to the road. It’s an approach that makes this entry-level model feel anything but basic. Whether it’s the responsive drivetrain, the sculptural design, or the thoughtfully revised interior, everything in the Amalfi is crafted to deliver joy in motion. | ZSDsL25mLXc |

Deliveries are set to begin in early 2026 for the European market, with prices starting from €240,000. That’s a significant investment, yes—but one that promises a lifestyle, an identity, and a seat at the table with one of the world’s most prestigious automotive families.

 

The Ferrari Amalfi isn’t just another sports car—it’s a new kind of invitation. One that says performance can still be graceful, luxury can be engaging, and a relaxed life doesn’t mean compromising on passion. For anyone ready to start their journey with Ferrari, this is where the road begins. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | MOTOR1 | CARANDDRIVER | TOPGEAR | ]

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Heritage ESX: Sbarro Espera Students Reimagine the Shelby Daytona for Today

Styled Bravery - What if the spirit of a legendary race car could be reimagined by the fresh minds of tomorrow's engineers? That question just found its thrilling answer in the form of the Heritage ESX—an audacious, full-scale revival of the iconic Shelby Daytona Coupe. Born not from a design house or car manufacturer, but from the creative energy of students at the Espera Sbarro UTBM design school, this isn't just a tribute. It's a bold, functioning prototype that blends yesterday’s raw passion with today’s sharp-edge innovation.

The Heritage ESX is an audacious, full-scale revival of the iconic Shelby Daytona Coupe, brought to life not by a design house or automaker, but by the creative energy of Espera Sbarro UTBM students, resulting in a bold, functioning prototype that fuses vintage racing spirit with modern innovation. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvet.fr)

The Heritage ESX isn’t your typical homage. It isn’t a replica trying to mimic the past, nor a restomod clinging to nostalgia. It’s something altogether different—a unique creation crafted from scratch by 25 aspiring automotive designers and engineers over just five months. While the car’s silhouette unmistakably channels the DNA of the 1965 Daytona Coupe, its execution pushes the design into the modern age. The proportions stay true to the long-hood, short-deck formula, but sharp details and smart updates bring it to life in a whole new way.

The Heritage ESX showcases its modern flair up front with Ford GT-inspired LED headlights sourced from the Ford Puma, paired with round LEDs between the intakes and a vented hood—all combining clever design and function to hint at the power within. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Right up front, LED headlights perched on the fenders inject a slice of Ford GT flair, subtly nodding to another racing great. These lights were cleverly repurposed from the Ford Puma, a compact European SUV—proof that ingenuity often lies in the unexpected. Beneath them, round LEDs tucked between the intakes keep the look clean but aggressive. The hood, meanwhile, is sculpted with functional vents that hint at the beastly heart beneath.

 

From the side, the low-slung posture and pronounced rear haunches feel instantly familiar. Side-mounted exhaust pipes and gill-style vents offer more than just retro flavor—they scream racing heritage. The ESX stands tall—figuratively—on white-finished 19-inch alloy wheels, their large tires giving the car a grounded, muscular stance that looks ready for the track.

The Heritage ESX balances retro inspiration with modern design inside the cabin, featuring a driver-focused layout enhanced by purposeful carbon fiber accents. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Around back, the reinterpretation continues. The rear design is edgier, more angular, but still respectful of the original’s flow. A large integrated ducktail spoiler adds drama and downforce, while four taillights and sculpted side vents complete the look. The paint—deep blue with bold white racing stripes and the number 60—adds that essential final touch, tying the whole aesthetic together. 

The Heritage ESX features a carefully sculpted body over a multi-tubular chassis, powered by a Ford-sourced 5.0-liter V8 engine paired with a six-speed manual and rear-wheel drive, promising an exhilarating drive thanks to its lightweight 1,150 kg frame. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvet.fr)

Inside, the car’s cabin walks a fine line between retro inspiration and forward-thinking design. It’s unmistakably driver-focused, with carbon fiber elements that lend a sense of purpose. The central digital display adds modern usability, but analog stopwatches on the passenger side bring back that motorsport romance. A classic three-spoke steering wheel and a gear knob placed high on the console serve as reminders that this car was built to be driven, not just admired.

The Heritage ESX continues its bold reinterpretation at the rear with a sharper, more angular design that honors the original’s lines, featuring an integrated ducktail spoiler for added flair and downforce, complemented by quad taillights and sculpted side vents. (Picture from: Carscoops)

And driven it will be. Under the carefully sculpted body lies a multi-tubular chassis, carrying a Ford-sourced 5.0-liter V8 engine paired to a six-speed manual gearbox. Power is sent to the rear wheels, and while performance figures haven’t been shared, the car’s relatively light 1,150 kg (2,535-pound) frame suggests a seriously fun driving experience. Every line and detail speaks to the fact that this isn’t a static sculpture—it’s a machine meant to move. As with many Sbarro creations, the Heritage ESX is expected to remain a one-off, a rolling proof of concept rather than a commercial product.  | o13dYwYwVUo |

Still, the buzz it's generated online has sparked interest in what a limited production run might look like. For now, the ESX will have its moment in the spotlight at the prestigious Le Mans Classic from July 3–6, 2025, showcasing not just a car, but the talent and vision of the next generation of automotive designers. The Heritage ESX is more than a nod to history—it’s a reminder that when passion meets skill, even legends can be reborn in the most unexpected ways. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SBARRO.PHCALVET.FR | CARSCOOPS | OBSCURESUPERCAR IN X ]

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Aston Martin One-77: The Ultimate Blend of Luxury and Performance

Supreme Craftsmanship - Few names in the world of luxury sports cars command as much prestige and performance as Aston Martin. With a legacy built on elegance, speed, and craftsmanship, this British marque has consistently set the standard for automotive excellence. Though this particular Aston Martin supercar debuted over a decade ago, it remains a topic of fascination. Some cars are simply too extraordinary to be forgotten.

The Aston Martin One-77was an automotive masterpiece that blended cutting-edge engineering with the brand’s timeless sophistication. (Picture from: TopGear)

Over the years, Aston Martin has produced some of the most breathtaking machines ever to grace the road, but one model stands above the rest—a car that redefined exclusivity, power, and artistry in a single, masterfully crafted package. The Aston Martin One-77 was not just another high-performance vehicle; it was an automotive masterpiece that blended cutting-edge engineering with the brand’s timeless sophistication.

The Aston Martin One-77 featuring a sleek, sculpted body that radiated both aggression and elegance. (Picture from: AstonMartin)

When Aston Martin first teased the One-77 at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, anticipation reached an all-time high. Shrouded in mystery beneath a custom-tailored cover, it left enthusiasts eager for more. The following year, at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, the wait was over. The cover was lifted, revealing a sleek, sculpted body that radiated both aggression and elegance. 

The Aston Martin One-77 combined raw power with an advanced carbon fiber monocoque structure and active aerodynamics, maximizing strength, efficiency, and driving performance. (Picture from: OtoDetik)

With only 77 units set for production, the One-77 instantly became one of the rarest and most exclusive supercars in the world. However, a handful of additional development cars were created for engineering and testing purposes. Among them, one unit—VIN #10711—was later restored and registered under the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Exhibition or Display category in the United States, technically increasing the count to 78.

The Aston Martin One-77's cabin exuded luxury, with hand-stitched leather, carbon fiber accents, and cutting-edge technology seamlessly integrated into a driver-focused cockpit. (Picture from: AstonMartin)

Beyond its striking appearance, the One-77 was built for speed, and it did not disappoint. In controlled speed trials, it tore through expectations, reaching an astonishing top speed of 220 mph (354 km/h). This achievement surpassed the Jaguar XJ220’s record of 349 km/h, solidifying Aston Martin’s place among the world’s fastest car manufacturers. While the legendary McLaren F1 still held the edge at 241 mph (387 km/h), the One-77 proved that raw power and British luxury could coexist without compromise.

The Aston Martin One-77's cabin exuded luxury, with hand-stitched leather, carbon fiber accents, and cutting-edge technology seamlessly integrated into a driver-focused cockpit. (Picture from: AstonMartin)

To achieve such remarkable performance, Aston Martin’s engineers crafted the One-77 with meticulous precision. Beneath the sculpted hood rested a monstrous 7.3-liter V12 engine, delivering an earth-shaking 750 horsepower. This powerhouse was paired with a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, keeping weight to a minimum while maximizing structural integrity. Advanced aerodynamics further enhanced its capabilities, with active elements designed to optimize stability at high speeds. Every detail was engineered to perfection, from the height-adjustable suspension to the carbon-ceramic brakes, ensuring that the One-77 was as agile as it was powerful.

At the heart of the Aston Martin One-77 lies a monstrous 7.3-liter V12 engine, capable of delivering a staggering 750 horsepower. (Picture from: AstonMartin)

Yet, power alone wasn’t what made this car truly special. The craftsmanship behind every One-77 was nothing short of extraordinary. Each exterior panel was hand-formed from aluminum, giving the car a bespoke touch that set it apart from mass-produced supercars. Inside, the cabin exuded luxury, with hand-stitched leather, carbon fiber accents, and cutting-edge technology seamlessly integrated into a driver-focused cockpit. Every detail, down to the finest stitch, was designed to create an experience that was both exhilarating and refined.

The Aston Martin One-77 showcased extraordinary craftsmanship with hand-formed aluminum exterior panels, offering a bespoke touch unmatched by mass-produced supercars. (Picture from: AstonMartin)

Owning a One-77 was a privilege reserved for only a select few. With a price tag of $1.87 million, this hypercar was among the most expensive in the world. Yet, even with its staggering cost, demand was overwhelming. Aston Martin reported that 60 out of the 77 units were already spoken for before production had even concluded. For those who secured a spot on the exclusive list, the One-77 wasn’t just a car—it was a statement, a piece of automotive history that embodied power, beauty, and rarity in its purest form.

The Aston Martin One-77, with only 77 units produced, instantly became one of the rarest and most exclusive supercars in the world. (Picture from: AstonMartin)

The exclusivity didn’t stop at the car itself. Many owners opted to pair their One-77 with the Aston Martin Cygnet, a luxury microcar based on the Toyota iQ. While drastically different in size and performance, the Cygnet was offered as a stylish urban companion, often customized to match its high-performance counterpart. It was a bold contrast—one designed for speed and adrenaline, the other for practicality and convenience—but together, they formed a unique expression of Aston Martin’s versatility.

The One-77 was more than just a supercar; it was the pinnacle of what Aston Martin could achieve. It pushed boundaries, set new standards, and left an undeniable mark on the industry. Even years after its debut, it remains a symbol of engineering brilliance, a rare masterpiece that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. Few cars can claim to be both a work of art and a technological marvel, but the One-77 did exactly that—securing its place as one of the most unforgettable creations in automotive history. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ASTON MARTIN | TOPGEAR | WIKIPEDIA ]

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Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica: A One-Off Masterpiece on Wheels

Artmotion Symphony - When art fuses with engineering, the result is something more than just a machine—it becomes a statement, a bold vision brought to life on four wheels. That’s exactly what Lamborghini has accomplished with the Revuelto Opera Unica. First revealed at the vibrant Art Basel Miami Beach 2023, this isn’t just another luxury car unveiling—it’s a celebration of creative freedom, craftsmanship, and the brand’s relentless pursuit of innovation, wrapped in one astonishing package.

The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica, first revealed at the vibrant Art Basel Miami Beach 2023, is not just another luxury car unveiling but a bold celebration of artistic freedom, masterful craftsmanship, and the brand’s relentless drive for innovation—all wrapped in one breathtaking creation. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)

Inspired by the same daring spirit that gave rise to the Huracán Sterrato, the Revuelto Opera Unica stands as a singular artistic creation—a one-of-one expression from Lamborghini’s Centro Stile design house in collaboration with the Ad Personam customization program. Created to mark the company’s 60th anniversary, this car isn’t just a nod to the past, but a bold leap into the future of what a supercar can be. 

The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica stands as a one-of-a-kind artistic creation by Lamborghini’s Centro Stile design house in collaboration with the Ad Personam customization program, crafted to celebrate the brand’s 60th anniversary while boldly redefining the future of what a supercar can be. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)

The exterior is where things truly take flight. Over 435 painstaking hours—more than 18 full days—were spent transforming the car’s surface into a dynamic work of art. The base colors of Viola Pasifae and Nero Helene provide a deep, elegant canvas for sweeping strokes of red, blue, and orange that ripple across the body like movement frozen in time. The paintwork is entirely hand-brushed, giving the car a living, breathing texture, with a subtle shadowed Lamborghini emblem on the hood that feels both classic and contemporary.

The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica features an exterior transformed over 435 painstaking hours into a dynamic work of art, where a deep blend of Viola Pasifae and Nero Helene serves as an elegant canvas for sweeping red, blue, and orange brushstrokes that ripple across the body like motion captured in stillness. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)

Step inside, and the artistry continues. Two-tone leather in Viola Acutus and Nero Ade wraps around the cabin in a play of warm and cool hues that mirrors the kinetic energy of the exterior. This interior detailing took an additional 220 hours to perfect, and every inch reflects Lamborghini’s devotion to design.  

The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica continues its artistic expression inside with two-tone leather in Viola Acutus and Nero Ade wrapping the cabin in a blend of warm and cool tones that echo the exterior’s energy, perfected through an additional 220 hours of meticulous craftsmanship that reflects the brand’s unwavering dedication to design. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)

Embroidered anniversary logos in the headrests, door panels, and ceiling nod to the marque’s heritage, while an inscription reading “The Future Began in 1963” reminds you this machine is part of a larger story. Even the start/stop button has been raised for dramatic effect, and a special “Opera Unica” plaque cements its one-off status.

The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica retains its unfiltered power with a monstrous V12 plug-in hybrid engine—delivering 1,001 horsepower and 595 lb-ft of torque—intentionally left untouched to preserve its status as one of the most electrifying performance machines on the planet. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)

Beneath the artwork lies unfiltered power. Lamborghini wisely chose to leave the Revuelto’s monstrous V12 plug-in hybrid untouched. Delivering 1,001 horsepower and 595 lb-ft of torque, it maintains its place as one of the most electrifying performance machines on the planet. And despite all the artistic additions, it hasn’t lost an ounce of that raw, adrenaline-pumping identity that defines every Lambo.

The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica showcases its sculpted rear with twin hexagonal exhausts, sharp LED lighting, and subtle hand-painted accents that affirm its identity as a rolling work of art. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)

But perhaps the most surprising twist in the story is what happened next. After being unveiled as a pure piece of art, the Opera Unica has now made its way into the world of collectors. Listed by a private seller, this one-off hypercar is available for purchase through none other than duPont Registry, the premier marketplace for rare and exotic vehicles. While the exact asking price hasn’t been publicly disclosed, estimates place its value around $1.3 million—a figure that barely captures the hundreds of hours, talent, and heritage poured into this automotive sculpture. | D9dkfxDqvdw | 8V57an-Kvi4 |

So, what do you get when a supercar becomes a canvas? You get the Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica—a moving masterpiece that blurs the lines between engineering, emotion, and expression. It's not just built to drive, but to inspire. And for one lucky collector, it won’t just be admired at an art fair. It’ll be parked in their garage. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DUPONTREGESTRY | BLACKXPERIENCE | THESUPERCARBLOG ]

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Reviving a Legend: The Return of the Iso Rivolta GT Zagato

Retrofire Elegance - In a world increasingly shaped by electric drivetrains and stripped-down, minimalist design, there’s still something undeniably thrilling about the deep growl of a V8 engine wrapped in the sculpted elegance of Italian craftsmanship. Automotive history is filled with legendary names that defined its golden age—Ferrari, Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo—but beyond the spotlight, there are stories just as compelling. 

The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato, a carbon-fiber-bodied grand tourer powered by a Corvette Z06 engine, marks the bold revival of the once-renowned Iso brand by Italian coachbuilder Zagato. (Picture from: Petrolicious)

One of them is Iso Rivolta, a brand that quietly faded into obscurity for decades before making a dramatic return with the revival of a stunning creation: the Iso Rivolta GT Zagato, which first captured public attention in early 2020.

The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato was offered in a limited run of just 19 units, all of which were swiftly claimed by passionate collectors.. (Picture from: Petrolicious)

Originally founded in 1939 by Renzo Rivolta, the company started not with dreams of racetracks and roaring engines, but rather with practical appliances—electric heaters and refrigerators. After World War II, the company pivoted toward mobility, first entering the scooter business before innovating with the microcar concept known today as the BMW Isetta. That small, quirky vehicle may have opened the door to the automotive world, but Rivolta’s ambitions extended far beyond city streets and fuel economy.

The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato is an elegant two-door coupe, featuring flowing lines inspired by the powerful Iso Grifo A3/C of the 1960s. (Picture from: Petrolicious)

By the early 1960s, the company rebranded as Iso Rivolta and set its sights firmly on the grand touring segment. Collaborating with legends like Giotto Bizzarrini and Bertone, Iso created vehicles that blended sleek Italian design with raw American muscle, sourcing reliable V8 engines from General Motors. Cars like the Iso Rivolta IR 300 and the race-ready A3/C became cult favorites, but the 1973 Oil Crisis brought the Iso dream to an end. Or so it seemed.

The interior is wrapped in hand-stitched Italian leather and festooned with numerous badging and exclusive embroidery. (Picture from: RobbReport)

Fast forward to today, and that legacy has not only been remembered—it’s been reborn. The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato, crafted in collaboration with the renowned coachbuilder Zagato, is a modern tribute that bridges decades of automotive passion. And while retro-inspired designs are nothing new, this is far from a nostalgic gimmick. The GT Zagato digs deep into the Iso archives, pulling DNA from the 1963 A3 model and infusing it with contemporary craftsmanship and performance.

Also retained from the C7 Corvette are the seat frames and dashboard. (Picture from: RobbReport)

The GT Zagato is based on the Chevrolet C7 Corvette Z06, staying true to Iso’s tradition of pairing Italian flair with American horsepower. It boasts a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 660 horsepower, enabling it to rocket from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 315 km/h. For the truly power-hungry, there’s an upgrade option that takes it to a ferocious 750 horsepower.

Powering the car is the C7 Corvette’s 6.2-liter supercharged LT4 V-8, making 660 hp. (Picture from: RobbReport)

Designed under the meticulous eye of Norihiko Harada, Zagato’s chief designer, the GT Zagato reflects an artistic interpretation of performance. Its carbon fiber body keeps the car lightweight while maintaining flowing, muscular lines that echo its classic predecessor. The omission of Zagato’s signature “double-bubble” roof is no accident—it’s a deliberate choice to honor the clean purity of 1960s automotive styling.

The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato features entirely bespoke design elements, with no body panels from the Corvette and custom-made windows, lights, wheels, and door handles. (Picture from: Petrolicious)

But what truly makes this car special is not just the stats or the aesthetics—it’s the emotional connection to history. That connection runs especially deep within the families that brought this revival to life. Marella Rivolta, granddaughter of Renzo Rivolta and now Art Director at Zagato, has played a central role in reviving her family’s brand. Married to Andrea Zagato, she represents a living fusion of two iconic Italian automotive bloodlines. 

The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato features hand-laid carbon fiber bodywork, achieving a curb weight that is several hundred pounds lighter than the Corvette Z06. (Picture from: Petrolicious)

What began as a virtual concept car in the Gran Turismo video game has transformed into a limited-production reality—only 19 units will be made, catering to connoisseurs who appreciate heritage as much as horsepower. | Ns_7H0s_Rcw |

It’s rare for a car to feel like a love letter, but the Iso Rivolta GT Zagato is just that—a tribute to an era, a family, a philosophy. It’s not just a revival of a brand; it’s the resurrection of a spirit that once defined grand touring excellence. For those lucky enough to experience it, the GT Zagato isn’t just a car—it’s a moving piece of history, roaring back to life on the open road. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAGATO | PETROLICIOUS | ROBBREPORT | SILODROME | TECHZLE ]

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