Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato: The Ultra-Rare Coachbuilt Masterpiece

Artisanal Velocity - When it comes to rare and beautifully crafted automobiles, some names instantly spark recognition—Ferrari, of course, being one of them. But what happens when a legendary automaker joins forces with one of Italy’s most historic design houses? You get something truly extraordinary. In an automotive world overflowing with badges and horsepower wars, a unique creation like the Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato reminds us that craftsmanship and exclusivity still reign supreme. This isn’t just another limited-edition supercar—it’s a true coach-built masterpiece that blends performance with artisanal flair in a way few modern cars can match.

2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. (Picture from: TominiClassics)

At first glance, the name itself stirs curiosity. Nibbio, the Italian word for eagle, seems like an odd companion to Ferrari’s prancing horse. It’s not hard to imagine someone pausing in confusion upon seeing this sleek machine glide by, wondering aloud, “Is that a Ferrari or... something else?” And that’s exactly the point. This is a car designed to disrupt assumptions. It isn’t just a Ferrari—it’s a Ferrari transformed through the eyes of Zagato, a company whose legacy stretches back over a century.

2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. ((Picture from: TominiClassics)

Founded by Ugo Zagato in 1919 in Milan, Zagato started as a coach-building workshop with an eye for aerodynamic innovation and racing pedigree. The brand quickly became synonymous with lightweight construction, flowing lines, and race-ready elegance. Over the decades, Zagato partnered with legendary marques like Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, and Lancia—each collaboration producing cars that have become coveted collectors’ pieces. One of Zagato’s most recognizable features is the double-bubble roof, an aesthetic and functional signature that has graced countless iconic designs.

 

Fast forward to 2007, and the magic of Zagato was called upon once more—this time by a private client with impeccable taste and a desire for something truly bespoke. The challenge: take Ferrari’s 599 GTB Fiorano, already a marvel of engineering, and reimagine it into an ultra-exclusive, hand-built work of art. The result was the Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato—a name that now holds a mythical status among enthusiasts and collectors alike.

2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. (Picture from: TominiClassics)

Mechanically, this rare gem retains Ferrari’s roaring 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, pumping out a muscular 612 horsepower and 448 lb-ft of torque. With this powerhouse under the hood, the GTZ maintains the exhilarating performance DNA of its base model. But what sets it apart is everything on the outside—and inside—that makes it unmistakably Zagato.

Only nine units were ever produced, making the 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato one of the most limited Ferrari models in existence. Of those nine, eight were equipped with Ferrari’s F1-style paddle-shift gearbox. The single most visually distinct example wears a stunning two-tone livery known as Blue Cavallino, featuring a deep, moody blue body contrasted by a crisp white roof. This color combination, along with the reshaped body panels and signature Zagato design cues, gives the car a presence that’s impossible to ignore.

2007 Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato built based on the 599 GTB by Zagato. (Picture from: TominiClassics)

Step inside, and you’re greeted with an interior that feels both familiar and uniquely personalized. While the core cabin architecture is Ferrari’s own, Zagato reupholstered the space in luxurious blue leather, elevating the ambiance to something closer to a grand tourer than a raw sports machine. Every surface feels intentional, every stitch a nod to bespoke craftsmanship.

Even by today’s standards, nearly two decades after its debut, the Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato still turns heads—not just for its rarity, but because it represents a meeting of minds between two of Italy’s most revered automotive houses. It’s not just about speed or styling; it’s about legacy, design philosophy, and the quiet confidence of owning something that few others ever will.

In 2019, one of these exquisite machines reportedly sold for a staggering $1.5 million. And while its price may rise and fall in collector markets, its significance as a one-off vision of Italian excellence is timeless. The Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio Zagato isn’t merely a car—it’s a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the enduring allure of true automotive artistry. *** [EKA [04122020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DRIVETRIBE | TOMINICLASSICS | ]

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1948 Bob Hope Mercury Templeton Saturn: A Timeless Custom Classic

Iconic Masterpiece - In the world of custom cars, few vehicles stand out like the Templeton Saturn. Known also as the Bob Hope Special Roadster, this one-of-a-kind masterpiece has earned a place in automotive history for its striking design and unique backstory. Built for Lloyd Templeton, a man with a deep passion for innovation, the Templeton Saturn is a symbol of the creative spirit that defined mid-20th century American car culture. Its fascinating history, design, and recognition in prestigious car events make it a legendary figure in the automotive world.

The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn is a mix of Chrysler, Chevrolet, Dodge, Pontiac and Hudson, was all the craze at auto shows back in the 1950s. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

The Templeton Saturn’s story begins in Hollywood, California, when Templeton, seeking a distinctive custom car, entrusted its creation to skilled designers and craftsmen. The vehicle’s most notable feature is its one-off status, meaning no other car like it exists in the world. The vehicle gained further fame when Bob Hope, the legendary comedian, drove it while appearing in a movie, giving it the nickname "Bob Hope Special Roadster." Though the car’s true identity remained a mystery to many, its sleek and stylish design made it an unforgettable sight.

The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn's body, a mix of curves and flat surfaces, features a lengthened Chrysler hood, a Mercury windshield, and rear fenders from a ’46 Chevy, creating a unique and eye-catching appearance. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

At the heart of the Templeton Saturn is a ’48 239.4 Cubic Inch Flathead V8 engine, equipped with two Stromberg 94 Carburetors and Speedway Heads. The engine, paired with a manual transmission, provided a thrilling driving experience that matched the car’s bold exterior. Its body, a mixture of curves and flat surfaces, is another defining characteristic. The Chrysler hood, lengthened and modified for a more streamlined look, along with the Mercury windshield and rear fenders made from a ’46 Chevy, contributed to the car’s unique and eye-catching appearance. Even the rear deck lid, borrowed from a Hudson hood, added to the car’s one-of-a-kind nature. Meanwhile, the grille, a cut-down version of a ’48 Dodge, and bumpers from a ’46 Pontiac, completed the vehicle’s distinctive exterior.

The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn features a cockpit-style interior inspired by aviation design, with multiple gauges, mostly period Stewart Warner dials, with various knobs and switches added a layer of sophistication. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

Inside, the Templeton Saturn’s cockpit-style interior was inspired by aviation design, featuring multiple gauges, mostly period Stewart Warner dials, with a white-on-black color scheme. The various knobs and switches added a layer of sophistication, giving the driver the feeling of being in control of a high-performance machine. This thoughtful attention to detail in both the exterior and interior design made the Saturn stand out as a true work of art, not just a car.

The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn features a cabin designed to accommodate two passengers, with an elegant white-on-black color scheme enhancing its stylish interior. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

Lloyd Templeton named the car the "Templeton Saturn" after himself, with "Saturn" symbolizing its ability to outpace the cars of its time. This was a fitting name for a vehicle that continuously received accolades across the United States. From the Pan Pacific Auditorium in California to the 1952 Speedarama Show in Minneapolis, the Templeton Saturn impressed crowds with its design and performance. Its fame only grew as it made appearances at notable events, including a display at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, where it was featured as the "Car of Tomorrow."

The 1948 Mercury Templeton Saturn is powered by a ’48 239.4 Cubic Inch Flathead V8 engine with two Stromberg 94 Carburetors and Speedway Heads, paired with a manual transmission to deliver a thrilling driving experience that complements its bold exterior. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

The Templeton Saturn’s legacy continues to this day. In 2012, the car was invited to the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, cementing its place among the most celebrated vehicles in automotive history. It also received an in-depth 12-pages feature in MotorTrend Classic Winter 2012 Edition, further solidifying its status as a collectible and a milestone in American automotive history. The Templeton Saturn is not just a car; it is a symbol of creativity, craftsmanship, and a bygone era of American ingenuity.

In the end, the Templeton Saturn stands as a testament to the vision of its creator, Lloyd Templeton, and the golden age of custom car culture in America. Its unique design, history, and influence in automotive circles ensure that this one-of-a-kind roadster will continue to captivate car enthusiasts and collectors for generations to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOEVOLUTION | JAMESEDITION ]

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The Revolutionary Hardtop Concept of the 1953 Packard Balboa-X

Canopy Revolution - The golden age of American automotive design was an era of experimentation, innovation, and bold creativity. During the early 1950s, manufacturers were eager to captivate the public with concept cars that showcased futuristic designs and advanced engineering. Packard, one of the most prestigious names in luxury automobiles, was no exception. Among the standout creations of that time was the 1953 Packard Balboa-X—a concept car that not only turned heads but also embodied the visionary design principles of Richard A. Teague.

The Packard Balboa-X—a concept car that turned heads and embodied Richard A. Teague's visionary design principles for a revolutionary hardtop. (Picture from: Supercarsnet)

Teague, a name later synonymous with American Motors’ distinctive styling, was still carving his reputation in the early 1950s. Having started his career at General Motors, where he worked on Oldsmobile and Cadillac designs, Teague moved to Packard in 1952. Under the direction of Edward Macauley, the head of styling at Packard, he was given a simple yet challenging task by the company’s president, James Nance: create a hardtop roof that would stand apart from anything else on the road. His solution was the revolutionary "Canopy Top," a design that would influence future automotive styling for years to come.

The Packard Balboa-X, initially known as “Project Rooftop,” featured a radical design that later influenced the Packard Predictor, 1958 Lincoln, and Mercury Breezeway models. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The defining feature of the Balboa-X was its striking C-pillar, which extended rearward with a reversed back angle, providing both an aesthetic statement and functional benefits. The overhang at the rear served as protection for the nearly vertical rear glass, shielding it from sunlight, rain, and snow. This radical design, originally known within Packard as “Project Rooftop,” would later inspire elements seen on the Packard Predictor, as well as the 1958 Lincoln and Mercury Breezeway models.

The Packard Balboa-X, built as a showpiece to showcase its new roofline concept, was based on the limited-production 1953 Caribbean convertible and retained much of its exterior and interior features. (Picture from: Crastyling.ru)

Packard built the Balboa-X as a showpiece to exhibit this new roofline concept. Based on the limited-production 1953 Packard Caribbean convertible, the Balboa-X retained much of the Caribbean’s exterior and interior features. It was painted in Packard Ivory below the beltline, with a deep maroon color adorning the distinctive hardtop. The interior, finished in maroon and white leather, featured embroidered Packard crest medallions on the seatbacks, adding a touch of exclusivity. Other notable design elements included a continental spare tire and chrome trim details that further emphasized the car’s luxury appeal.

The Packard Balboa-X featured a maroon and white leather interior with embroidered Packard crest medallions on the seatbacks, enhancing its exclusivity. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

While Packard’s official records suggest that the modifications to the Balboa-X were performed in-house, there is evidence that Creative Industries of Detroit—a key prototype builder for many major automakers—was responsible for the construction of the roof panel and other enhancements. Such outsourcing was a common practice among Detroit manufacturers, allowing them to experiment with unique designs without burdening their own production facilities. Despite this, Packard took full credit for the work, a move not unusual in the industry at the time.

The Packard Balboa-X featured a striking C-pillar that extended rearward with a reversed back angle, blending bold aesthetics with functional benefits. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

Debuting in the spring of 1953 alongside the production Caribbean, the Balboa-X was met with enthusiasm. It toured the auto show circuit, impressing both the public and industry insiders. The car’s reception was so positive that it was given minor updates for the 1954 model year and continued to be displayed for another season. One particularly interesting feature was the claim that the rear window could be electrically operated—allowing it to be raised or lowered. However, due to time constraints, this functionality was never actually developed, leaving the glass fixed in place.

The Packard Balboa-X had a rear overhang that protected its nearly vertical rear glass from sunlight, rain, and snow. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

Once its time as a showpiece ended, the Balboa-X found its way into the hands of Richard Teague himself. Over the years, it passed through several private collectors and remains in excellent condition today. Interestingly, a second Balboa was also created. Don Mitchell of Mitchell-Bentley, the company responsible for trimming the original Balboa, was so taken with the design that he commissioned a similar modification on another Caribbean, ensuring that the legacy of the Balboa concept lived on in more than one form. | HXdRLlj3vMM |

The 1953 Packard Balboa-X remains a remarkable piece of automotive history—a concept car that exemplified Teague’s ability to push the boundaries of design while maintaining Packard’s reputation for elegance and sophistication. Though it never saw production, its influence can be traced in later designs across the industry. Today, the Balboa-X stands as a testament to an era when car designers had the freedom to dream big, shaping the future of automobiles in ways that still inspire enthusiasts and collectors alike. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUE SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | MACSMOTORCITYGARAGE | CARSTYLING.RU | CONCEPTCARZ ]

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Rare and Beautiful Italian Scooters That Time Forgot (Part 2)

Chrome Echoes - As mentioned in the first part of this article, we now continue exploring a range of rare Italian scooter brands—beyond Vespa and Lambretta—that once added flair and variety to the global scooter scene.

In 1950s Rome, two couples cruise together on scooters through the city’s streets. (Picture from: AKG-Images)

Ferrari 400: The GT Misstep That Never Reached America

Misguided Luxury - The automotive world is full of legends—cars that inspire awe and admiration, setting new benchmarks for performance, design, and engineering excellence. Ferrari, one of the most revered names in the industry, has a long history of producing such icons. But not every prancing horse was a masterpiece. Some models, despite wearing the legendary badge, failed to capture the essence of what makes a Ferrari truly special. One such example is the Ferrari 400, a car that carried the weight of grand tourer aspirations but fell short of delivering the magic expected from Maranello.

The Ferrari 400, a car that carried the weight of grand tourer aspirations but fell short of delivering the magic expected from Maranello. (Picture from: SupercarNostalgia)

When the Ferrari 400 was unveiled at the 1976 Paris Motor Show alongside the stunning 512 BB, it promised a blend of performance and luxury, continuing the lineage of front-engined V12 four-seaters that began with the 250 GTE in 1959. It was essentially an evolution of the 365 GT4, featuring a larger 4.8-liter engine and subtle design updates. Yet, what made the 400 most infamous was its attempt to introduce something unprecedented in Ferrari history—a three-speed automatic transmission. This decision was aimed at attracting the American market, where effortless driving was preferred over the thrill of a gated manual shifter. Ironically, despite its intention, the 400 was never officially sold in the United States due to federal emissions and safety regulations.

The Ferrari 400, unveiled at the 1976 Paris Motor Show, promised a blend of performance and luxury, continuing the company's lineage of front-engined V12 four-seaters. (Picture from: SupercarNostalgia)

The idea of an automatic Ferrari was controversial from the start. Enthusiasts saw it as a compromise, a dilution of the brand’s racing DNA in favor of convenience. Unlike the six experimental 365 GTs equipped with automatic transmissions for testing purposes in the late 1960s, the Ferrari 400 was a full-production model, allowing any well-heeled customer to own one. However, its grand touring credentials were overshadowed by a lack of excitement. The 340-horsepower V12 had the pedigree of Ferrari’s legendary Colombo engine, but pairing it with a sluggish Borg-Warner three-speed automatic drained much of its spirit. While the manual variant, the 400 GT, retained some driving engagement, the automatic version, the 400 A, felt like a missed opportunity for a brand known for its exhilarating machines.

The Ferrari 400 lacked the visual drama expected from the brand, with Pininfarina's understated, boxy design resembling luxury coupes rather than high-performance exotics. (Picture from: SupercarNostalgia)

Even in terms of styling, the 400 lacked the visual drama expected from a Ferrari. Designed by Pininfarina, its understated and boxy appearance was more in line with luxury coupes of the era rather than high-performance exotics. Practical? Yes. Exciting? Not quite. Compared to its rivals, such as the Lamborghini Espada, it was the more discreet choice—favored by conservative buyers who wanted a fast yet low-profile grand tourer. While some appreciated its refinement and spacious interior, it never achieved the desirability of other Ferraris from the same period.

The Ferrari 400 featured a luxurious interior, offering premium leather seats, electric windows, and a well-appointed air conditioning system for added comfort. (Picture from: SupercarNostalgia)

The chassis and suspension setup provided a comfortable ride, featuring independent suspension with self-leveling technology, power steering, and disc brakes on all four wheels. The car even had a luxurious interior with leather seats, electric windows, and air conditioning. However, none of these features could disguise its hefty weight, which reached 1,700 kg—significantly heavier than its predecessor. The added weight, combined with the automatic transmission, dulled its acceleration and handling, making it feel less like a Ferrari and more like an expensive European cruiser.

The Ferrari 400 featured a luxurious interior, offering premium leather seats, electric windows, and a well-appointed air conditioning system for added comfort. (Picture from: SupercarNostalgia)

Despite its underwhelming reception, the Ferrari 400 remained in production until 1979 before being succeeded by the fuel-injected 400i. Out of the 502 units produced, nearly two-thirds were automatics, proving that Ferrari’s attempt at catering to a more relaxed driving audience had some level of success—just not in the way they originally intended. Since it never officially reached American dealerships, a handful of cars made their way across the Atlantic through grey market imports, where they had to undergo costly modifications to meet US regulations. | zDSY6FonYwY |

Today, the Ferrari 400 remains one of the most overlooked models in the brand’s history. It lacks the collectibility of the 250-series classics, the raw excitement of mid-engined icons, and the groundbreaking innovation seen in later Ferraris. However, it serves as an important lesson in Maranello’s journey—an experiment in balancing performance with comfort, and a reminder that not every Ferrari is destined for greatness. While it may never be remembered as a legend, the 400 still holds a unique place in Ferrari’s timeline, if only as a cautionary tale of how even the most celebrated automaker can occasionally miss the mark. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | TOPGEAR.NL | SUPERCARNOSTALGIA ]

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Rare and Beautiful Italian Scooters That Time Forgot (Part 1)

Scooter Relics - Italy, often affectionately dubbed "The Spaghetti Country," is not only renowned for its cuisine but also as the birthplace of some of the world’s most beautiful and iconic scooters. After World War II, the two-wheeled vehicle market in Italy flourished, giving rise to numerous scooter manufacturers. Among the most prominent were Piaggio, with its legendary Vespa, and Innocenti, the maker of Lambretta.

The scooters atmosphere in Rome around the 1950s in William Klein's camera shots. (Picture from: RTVE.es)