Engineered Defiance - Every now and then, the automotive world is shaken not by how fast a car goes, but by how boldly it breaks the rules. In the early 1960s, when most manufacturers clung tightly to tradition, Ferrari dared to turn its back on one of its oldest principles. This moment gave birth to something radically different — the Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi — a machine that wasn’t just a race car, but a statement on innovation.
The 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi, chassis #0806, was featured in the RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction lineup in 2019.(Picture from: Motor1)
Built between 1961 and 1963, the Ferrari 196 SP was part of a very exclusive family, with fewer than ten units ever created. What set it apart wasn't just its rarity, but its revolutionary engineering. At a time when Enzo Ferrari firmly believed that the engine belonged at the front — famously insisting that the “horse should come before the cart” — the 196 SPwent against the grain with a mid-mounted engine. This wasn’t a compromise. It was a calculated move towards better balance, sharper handling, and superior weight distribution.
Left-side view of the 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi, chassis #0806. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Under the sleek body sculpted by Fantuzzi, a renowned coachbuilder with a flair for simplicity and function, sat a Vittorio Jano-designed V6 engine. Jano’s approach was a departure from Ferrari’s signature 12-cylinder Colombo engines. His V6 was smaller, lighter, and more fuel-efficient — and yet still capable of breathtaking performance. Mounted longitudinally, the engine worked in harmony with a five-speed manual transmission to drive the rear wheels with precision.
The 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi with chassis #0806 features a cabin equipped with two racing bucket seats, a three-spoke sporty steering wheel, and a simple, driver-focused dashboard.(Picture from: TopSpeed)
Supporting all this was a tubular steel chassis and double wishbone suspension, which gave the 196 SP not only agility but also confidence through tight corners and demanding courses. Its exterior design, while understated by racing car standards, was elegant and purposeful — a perfect blend of form and function.
The 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi is powered by a Vittorio Jano-designed V6 engine that is smaller, lighter, and more fuel-efficient.(Picture from: TopSpeed)
The Ferrari 196 SP wasn’t just different in theory. It proved its worth on the track. It first roared to life as chassis #0790 and immediately made an impression at the 1961 Targa Florio. Just a year later, it secured victory at the Nürburgring 1000 km — a track known for punishing lesser machines. Over time, Ferrari adapted the platform, converting the early 246 SP into a 196 SP, demonstrating just how flexible and forward-thinking the engineering truly was.
Rear left-side view of the 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi, chassis #0806. (Picture from: Conceptarz)
As with many Ferrari race cars from that era, specifications evolved over its short production run. Engines were tweaked, and components updated, often retrofitted into existing chassis. Between 1962 and 1963, just five chassis were produced, making each one a rare artifact of Ferrari’s boldest experiments.
Rear view of the 1962 Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi, chassis #0806.(Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Though only a handful of these cars were ever made, their impact is far greater than their numbers suggest. The Ferrari 196 SP laid down the blueprint for the brand’s future successes, including its mid-engined domination at Le Mans with the 250 P. Even decades later, examples like the original #0790 still make appearances at prestigious events like the Cavallino Classic, reminding us that this wasn’t just a car — it was a turning point.
Today, looking back, it’s clear that the Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzziwasn’t built to follow the rules. It was built to redefine them. And in doing so, it carved out a legacy that still echoes through every mid-engined Ferrari that followed. *** [EKA [17112019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | CONCEPTCARZ | BUSINESS INSIDER | MOTOR1 | THE DRIVE | TOPSPEED | CAVALLINO ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
Shadow Myth- In the golden era of automotive design, when bold lines met bold ambitions, one car managed to capture the spirit of innovation and exclusivity like no other: the Lamborghini Countach LP400 'Periscopio'. While the 1970s birthed many iconic vehicles, few have left a legacy as distinct, untouched, and mysterious as this stealthy black beauty with a tale that stretches across continents and decades. It’s more than just a car—it’s a time capsule, frozen in the dreams of engineers, collectors, and enthusiasts alike.
The Countach LP400 'Periscopio' wasn’t just another model on Lamborghini’s lineup—it was a revolution in form and function. The variant name “Periscopio” came from its unique rear-view periscope-style roof channel, a design choice that both enhanced visibility and added flair. According to Lamborghini’s records, chassis number 1120182 was initially destined for Lebanon, ordered in an elegant black exterior paired with a black interior. This configuration alone made it stand out, as it became the only fully finished example of its type among just 150 LP400s ever built. However, due to the outbreak of civil war in Lebanon, the order faced delays. It wasn’t until May 14, 1976, that the car was finally completed.
Front three-quarter of 1976 Lamborghini Countach LP400 'Periscopio'. (Picture from: Motorious)
Following its completion, Lamborghini used the freshly built LP400 for driving tests, capturing it in stunning promotional photography that highlighted its daring design. By autumn of the same year, the car was shipped to Japan, where it was slightly modified to comply with local regulations—most notably gaining a side rearview mirror and a larger front turn signal. It stayed in the care of the Lamborghini Agent in Nagoya until December 12, 1977, when it found its first private owner.
Interior of 1976 Lamborghini Countach LP400 'Periscopio'. (Picture from: Motorious)
That owner was none other than Mitsuo Sanami, a well-known Japanese celebrity and elite car enthusiast who once represented Japan as a trap shooter at the 1964 Olympics. Despite owning such a rare automotive masterpiece, Sanami never registered it for road use. For five years, the LP400 remained undriven and tucked away—an untouched gem in his collection.
In 1982, the Countach changed hands again, this time acquired by Isao Noritake, Japan’s most celebrated Lamborghini collector and founder of the Japan Lamborghini Owner’s Club. Like Sanami, Noritake preserved the car as a piece of art rather than a mode of transport. He housed it in his private museum, where it remained off the roads and untouched by the elements. Eventually, he sold the car to his friend, Yoshiaki Okada, another passionate collector, who continued the trend of ownership without ever putting the car on the street.
The engine view of 1976 Lamborghini Countach LP400 'Periscopio'. (Picture from: Motorious)
After several years, Noritake reacquired the vehicle in 1990. By then, the Countach had sat idle for so long that it required professional attention. He sent it back to the Lamborghini factory in Italy for a full overhaul. There, the Countach received comprehensive servicing, and its interior was painstakingly repainted and refurbished. The restoration took two years and cost a staggering $160,000. Once complete, the car returned to Noritake’s collection—but once again, it was never driven. The odometer reads only 540 kilometers to this day, believed to have been logged entirely during Lamborghini’s internal testing between 1990 and 1992.
The Countach’s journey continued into the 21st century when in 2015, it was acquired by Symbolic International in San Diego, California. That same year, it was purchased by American collector Peter Dyson. But by 2018, the car made its way back to Symbolic International, reaffirming its place among top-tier collectible vehicles.
By October 2019, after decades of being admired from afar, the black Lamborghini Countach LP400 ‘Periscopio’ once again stepped into the spotlight. Symbolic International put it up for sale, though the asking price remained undisclosed. Following its brief reappearance, the car quietly changed hands once more—its trail vanishing into the world of elite private collections. While its final destination and value were never made public, what’s certain is this: it remains one of the most elusive and immaculately preserved examples of its kind. This Countach doesn't need the open road to make its presence felt—its legend was forged long ago, and it continues to echo among those who know where to look.*** [EKA [18112019]| FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTORIOUS | JUST CAR GUY ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Analog Thrill - In a world where automotive technology is charging ahead at full throttle, with electric powertrains and autonomous systems leading the race, there's a unique appeal in going back to basics. For enthusiasts who still crave the raw sound of a naturally aspirated V8 and the visceral connection of a manual gearbox, the arrival of the Automobili Mignatta Rina feels like a breath of fresh air—or perhaps more accurately, a deep, unfiltered roar of nostalgia.
The Mignatta Rina Barchetta, a special handcrafted Italian beauty with an American V8 power. (Picture from: id.Motor1)
Automobili Mignatta, a boutique carmaker from the quiet commune of Valfenera in Italy's Piedmont region, has made a bold entrance into the exotic car world with its debut model. The Rina, a retro-inspired barchetta, instantly turns heads with its elegant yet aggressive design, a silhouette that speaks fluently in the language of 1960s motorsport heritage. It’s a car that ditches trends in favor of timeless character, evoking the spirit of open-top racers from a bygone era, stripped of anything unnecessary—including a roof or windshield.
The Mignatta Rina Barchetta, a retro-inspired barchetta, instantly turns heads with its elegant yet aggressive design, a silhouette that speaks fluently in the language of 1960s motorsport heritage. (Picture from: TheSupercarBlog)
But don’t let its vintage flair fool you. Underneath that sleek carbon fiber skin lies cutting-edge craftsmanship. The Rina rides on a single-piece carbon monocoque chassis, which not only keeps weight to a minimum but also ensures rigidity and performance. Every inch of the car is purposefully designed—almond-shaped headlights, an oval grille, side vents, and round LED taillights all echo classic Zagato-inspired cues, while a neatly integrated ducktail spoiler and quad exhaust pipes hint at the serious engineering lurking beneath the surface.
The Mignatta Rina Barchetta is a a car that ditches trends in favor of timeless character, evoking the spirit of open-top racers from a bygone era, stripped of anything unnecessary—including a roof or windshield. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
At the heart of this Italian beauty is an American soul: a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8, originally from the Ford Mustang, then elevated to bespoke standards by Italtecnica Engineering. This is the same Italian firm known for refining restomod legends like Kimera and Totem Automobili. While official performance figures are still under wraps, the Rina’s dry weight of around 1,000 kilograms and a power-to-weight ratio of 2 kg per horsepower suggest that the engine delivers roughly 500 PS—or just under 500 horsepower. That power is delivered to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox and a rear-mounted transaxle, complete with a limited-slip differential for optimal grip and balance.
The Mignatta Rina’s cabin is defined by exposed carbon fiber, highlighting its lightweight construction and minimalist philosophy. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
True to its analogue promise, the cabin is a pure driving environment. There are no screens, no touch panels—just a row of metal toggle switches, classic gauges, and leather seat pads mounted directly onto the monocoque. Carbon fiber dominates the interior, emphasizing the car's lightweight nature and no-frills philosophy. Even the staggered wheels, 19 inches up front and 20 at the rear, are wrapped in semi-slick rubber, further underlining the Rina’s performance-oriented design.
The Mignatta Rina delivers on its analogue promise with a pure driving environment free of screens or touch panels, featuring only metal toggle switches, classic gauges, and leather seat pads mounted directly to the monocoque. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
And while exclusivity has become a common selling point in the supercar segment, Mignatta has taken it to heart—limiting production to just 30 units per year. Each Rina will be built by hand, with meticulous attention to detail, and priced from €290,000 before taxes. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2026, giving collectors and purists alike something to look forward to. | 5GDHPr3LSvI |
The Mignatta Rina is more than just a beautiful machine; it's a statement against the homogenization of modern sports cars. In reviving the analogue spirit with uncompromising authenticity, Automobili Mignatta isn’t just building a car—they're crafting an experience, one that celebrates the thrill of driving in its most unfiltered form. For those lucky enough to secure one of these rare barchettas, it promises to be nothing short of unforgettable. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOMOBILI MIGNATTA | CARSCOOPS | ID.MOTOR1 | CARANDDRIVER | THESUPERCARBLOG ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Forgotten Vision - Car manufacturers often navigate a labyrinth of possibilities when revamping their designs, striving to merge tradition with innovation. The journey of the Mini brand offers a fascinating lens through which to view such transformations. Mini, once under Rover's stewardship, saw its legacy evolve dramatically after BMW acquired the company. The result was a series of intriguing experiments, one of which was the ACV 30 – a prototype that has etched its place as a unique chapter in Mini’s history.
The Mini ACV 30 Prototype, designed by a young Adrian van Hooydonk—now Head of BMW Design—embodied a vision to modernize Mini for the 21st century by blending compact utility with sporty aesthetics. (Picture from: BMWBlog)
Back in 1994, Adrian van Hooydonk, then a budding designer and now the Head of BMW Design, drafted the ACV 30 concept. His vision was to modernize Mini for the 21st century, blending compact utility with sporty aesthetics. Despite its boldness, the ACV 30 design was ultimately sidelined in favor of Frank Stephenson’s iteration, which would go on to define the Mini’s rebirth. However, the story of the ACV 30 didn’t end in the design studio. Instead, it was repurposed as a functional prototype, showcasing an alternative trajectory for Mini’s evolution.
The 1997 Mini ACV 30 Concept while sat on display at the Techno Classica 2017, Essen. (Picture from: Perico001 on Flickr)
When unveiled in January 1997, the ACV 30 was more than just a concept; it was a living, breathing vehicle. Initially not intended for public display, the car's debut became a strategic move to reignite interest in Mini’s brand legacy. This was no ordinary concept, as its name – Anniversary Concept Vehicle 30 – commemorated Mini’s historic victories in the Monte Carlo Rally, specifically its 1967 triumph, as well as wins in 1964 and 1965. The ACV 30’s aesthetic reflected this heritage while also hinting at Mini’s future.
The Mini ACV 30 Prototype blended nostalgia and modernity with rounded headlights and a signature grille that honored Mini's iconic past. (Picture from: BMWBlog)
From the outside, the ACV 30 displayed a mix of nostalgia and modernity. Its rounded headlights and signature grille shape nodded to Mini’s iconic past. At the same time, aggressive features like flared fenders and a center-exit exhaust hinted at a more performance-oriented identity. Its profile, surprisingly, bore a resemblance to today’s Minis, proving how elements of experimental designs can influence production models in subtle ways.
The profile of the Mini ACV 30 Prototype surprisingly resembled today’s Minis, showcasing how experimental designs can subtly shape production models. (Picture from: BMWBlog)
Stepping inside the ACV 30 revealed an interior crafted for excitement and performance. Sporty bucket seats with deep bolstering and a prominent shifter immediately conveyed a driver-focused experience. Red accents, matching the roll cage, added a dynamic flair. The dashboard and control cluster cleverly balanced homage to the past with a forward-looking aesthetic, featuring pod-style gauges and tactile switchgear, which differed significantly from the production Mini’s single circular display.
The Mini ACV 30 Prototype featured a driver-focused interior with sporty bucket seats, a prominent shifter, and dynamic red accents matching the roll cage. (Picture from: Mini)
Mechanically, the ACV 30 was a deviation from Mini’s traditional front-engine, front-wheel-drive setup. Beneath its dramatic bodywork lay the underpinnings of an MG F roadster, complete with a mid-mounted 1.8-liter engine. This configuration was far from Mini’s rally roots but showcased BMW’s willingness to experiment. It also highlighted the versatility of the brand’s identity, allowing for playful reinterpretations of what a Mini could be.
The Mini ACV 30 Prototype even had its moment in the spotlight, leading a parade lap at the 1997 Monte Carlo Rally. (Picture from: BMWBlog)
The ACV 30 even had its moment in the spotlight, leading a parade lap at the 1997 Monte Carlo Rally. This symbolic act bridged Mini’s celebrated past with its potential future, turning the prototype into a rolling tribute to the brand’s adventurous spirit. Even though the ACV 30 never made it to production, it remains an enduring symbol of creativity and bold design thinking.
The Mini ACV 30 Prototype stands as a testament to the dynamic interplay between legacy and reinvention in automotive design. (Picture from: Pinterest)
Today, the Mini ACV 30 stands as a testament to the dynamic interplay between legacy and reinvention in automotive design. Its story underscores how even shelved concepts can leave an indelible mark, influencing future models and captivating enthusiasts. The ACV 30 may have been a side note in Mini’s storied history, but it continues to inspire curiosity and admiration among car lovers around the world.
As we reflect on the ACV 30, we are reminded that the automotive world thrives on experimentation and vision. While not every idea reaches the assembly line, each contributes to the rich tapestry of innovation that defines the industry. For Mini, the ACV 30 wasn’t just a concept—it was a celebration of its past and a bold exploration of what could have been. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MINI | BMWBLOG | ARONLINE ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
UNIQUE ONES - The 1980s was a vibrant period for automotive design, and few cars encapsulated this spirit of experimentation quite like the the Sbarro Challenge III. Building on the legacy of its predecessors, the Challenge I and Challenge II, this remarkable creation by the visionary Swiss designer Franco Sbarro exemplified the futuristic energy and audacity that defined the decade's supercar landscape.
The Sbarro Challenge III, created by the inventive Swiss designer Franco Sbarro, embodied the futuristic energy and audacity that defined the supercar landscape of the decade. (Picture from: TopCarRating)
The first of the series, the Challenge I, was introduced in 1985 and featured a Mercedes 500 V8 engine boosted by twin IHI turbochargers, producing an impressive 350 horsepower. This power, combined with a unique aerodynamic design, allowed the Challenge I to exceed speeds of 300 km/h. A notable feature of the Challenge I was its four-wheel drive system, a rarity for sports cars at the time. The innovative handling system took inspiration from the Audi Quattro and Porsche 959, paving the way for advanced automotive engineering.
The first Challenge posed alongside its creator, Franco Sbarro, while on display during its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in 1985. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
In 1986, Sbarro unveiled the Challenge II at the Geneva Motor Show. This model featured significant modifications, including the addition of two extra seats and a redesigned dashboard. The Challenge II was equipped with a 300-horsepower Porsche 930 turbo engine, transitioning to rear-wheel drive and a manual five-speed gearbox. Its striking gradient paint job done by Andréini, who had already made a name for himself on the Sbarro Super Twelve, transitioning from red at the rear to grey at the front, made it an eye-catching entry into the supercar arena.
The Sbarro Challenge I, finished in pearly white, features several modifications, including a cover over the rear wheels for improved aerodynamics, a different front bumper and headlights, and a lower rear air intake.. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
The Sbarro Challenge III, which debuted after its predecessors, continued this trend of innovation. It featured a powerful 3.3-liter engine sourced from the Porsche 911 Turbo series, capable of producing an astounding 400 horsepower. This formidable engine allowed the Challenge IIIto accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of 320 km/h. Weighing around 2,200 pounds, thanks to its lightweight fiberglass body, the Challenge III felt lively and responsive on the road, amplifying the thrill of every drive.
The Porsche-spotted Challenge II or Challange 2+2, with its red-grey gradient paintwork by Andréini, who did a similar job on the Super Twelve. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
The design of the Challenge III was striking and futuristic. Its wedge-shaped body featured sharp angles and a low, wide stance, making it stand out from the smoother designs of other supercars of the era. Equipped with unique scissor doors and a canopy-style cockpit, the vehicle's aesthetic resembled something from a sci-fi movie. This unconventional design was not just for looks; it highlighted Sbarro’s commitment to pushing beyond traditional automotive standards.
The front end of the Sbarro Challenge III #7, a Porsche-powered version registered in Spain, appears to plunge into the asphalt. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
Inside the Challenge III, the forward-thinking vision continued. The interior was clean and minimalist, emphasizing functionality over luxury and focusing on the driver’s experience. Sbarro's use of composite materials ensured durability while contributing to the car's lightweight construction. The aerodynamics were finely tuned, with features such as a rear wing acting as an air brake to enhance stability at high speeds.
The
Sbarro Challenge III #7, registered in Spain, and differed from its predecessor in that its engine, still of Porsche 930 turbo origin, was increased to 3.3 liters and developed 400 horsepower. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
Produced in extremely limited numbers, the Sbarro Challenge III was more of a concept car brought to life than a mass-produced vehicle. Each unit was meticulously handcrafted, reflecting Franco Sbarro’s vision of merging art with engineering. The car was not intended for the mass market but rather for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciated its unique blend of design and performance.
The Sbarro Challenge III featured a camera replacing the rear-view mirror, a system first introduced in 1985, positioned above the left-hand rear light. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvert.fr)
Overall, with only ten units of the Challenge series ever built, it became an exclusive piece of automotive history. And the Challenge IIIpriced at around $150,000—a considerable sum at the time—the car was clearly aimed at a discerning audience of collectors and enthusiasts who valued rarity and exceptional craftsmanship. The high production cost, combined with the complexity of assembly, made this car a true collector’s item. | AAr_MrTXCSQ |
The Sbarro Challenge series may not have achieved mainstream fame, but its bold design and innovative approach ensure it holds a distinct place in the legacy of 1980s supercars. Its rarity and the visionary spirit behind its creation make it a fascinating chapter in the automotive
stories of the era. Today, the Challenge series continues to captivate car enthusiasts, representing a time when creativity and engineering merged to create something truly exceptional. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES |SBARRO.PHCALVET.FR | TOCARRATING | CARSTYLING.RU | ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
Bold Artistry- In the ever-evolving world of automotive design, concept cars have always played a crucial role in shaping the future. These unique creations often serve as a bold canvas for innovation, daring aesthetics, and technological exploration. Some of the most captivating concept cars were born from partnerships between automakers and legendary design houses, where boundaries were pushed, and artistry met engineering. Among these unforgettable creations, one name continues to resonate through time: the Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale designed by Leonardo Fioravanti and debuted at the 1968 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Debuting in 1968 at the prestigious Geneva Motor Show, the Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale wasn’t just another showpiece—it was a daring vision of what the future could look like. The car stood out immediately with its radical styling and futuristic lines, representing a marriage of performance-driven purpose and avant-garde design philosophy. It was the result of a fruitful collaboration between Ferrari and the Italian design house Pininfarina, a partnership that has birthed some of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale was constructed on a P4 chassis and used a mid-mounted 3-liter V12 engine. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
At the heart of this concept was a young and talented designer from Pininfarina, Leonardo Fioravanti, who was only 29 years old at the time. Despite his youth, Fioravanti’s work on the P5 displayed a level of sophistication and foresight that would influence Ferrari’s design language for decades. The sleek body, flowing lines, and aerodynamic emphasis reflected his vision of a car that was not only fast but also beautiful in motion and at rest.
The 1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale's interior was dominated in red and black colors. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Built on the chassis of the Ferrari 330 P4, a race car known for its prowess on the track, the 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale brought performance engineering into the realm of conceptual elegance. Under the rear glass canopy sat a mid-mounted 3-liter V12 engine—an engineering choice that underscored Ferrari's racing heritage. What truly made the car stand out, though, was its pair of gull-wing doors, an unconventional feature for a Ferrari. Even today, such doors remain rare in the marque’s lineup, giving the P5 an added touch of exclusivity and theatrical flair.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale also has a glass-covered its mid-engine and styling that was low and curvy. (Picture from: en.WheelsAge.org)
One of the most striking aspects of the car was its transparent engine cover. In 1968, the idea of displaying an engine through a pane of glass was virtually unheard of, yet this daring feature would eventually become common in modern Ferraris. The low-slung, curvaceous silhouette further emphasized the car’s futuristic intentions, making it both an artistic sculpture and a mechanical marvel.
1968 Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta featured the gull-wing doors which are something unusual for a Ferrari until now. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Ferrari 250 P5 Berlinetta Speciale was never meant for production, but its influence reached beyond its one-off status. Just a year later, Pininfarina applied similar design cues to another striking prototype—the Alfa Romeo 33/2 Coupé Speciale—which made its debut in Paris. This continuity in design language was a testament to the creative synergy between Pininfarina and the brands it collaborated with, particularly Ferrari.
Over five decades have passed since the P5’s unveiling, yet it remains a powerful reminder of the creative possibilities that emerge when vision and craftsmanship align. The car may never have roared down a public road, but it sped into the imaginations of enthusiasts and designers around the world. Its legacy lives on, not only through its design influences but also in the enduring collaboration between Ferrari and Pininfarina—a partnership built on passion, precision, and the pursuit of beauty. *** [EKA [27042020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TOP SPEED | CONCEPTCARZ | CLASSIC CARS FANDOM | SUPERCARNOSTALGIA | ALLCARINDEX | CARSTYLING.RU ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Today, looking back, it’s clear that the Ferrari 196 SP by Fantuzzi wasn’t built to follow the rules. It was built to redefine them. And in doing so, it carved out a legacy that still echoes through every mid-engined Ferrari that followed. *** [EKA [17112019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | CONCEPTCARZ | BUSINESS INSIDER | MOTOR1 | THE DRIVE | TOPSPEED | CAVALLINO ]
