Donkervoort P24 RS: New Supercar Named After Founder’s Baby

Revolutionary Precision - The world of high-performance automobiles is constantly evolving, with each new generation of supercars pushing the limits of engineering and design. Among the most intriguing manufacturers in this niche market is Donkervoort, a Dutch brand that has spent decades perfecting the art of lightweight, high-performance vehicles. Now, after bidding farewell to its F22 with a final iteration, Donkervoort is preparing to introduce a new beast to the road: the P24 RS.

After closing the chapter on this F22 Final Five, Donkervoort is gearing up to unleash its next beast: the P24 RS.. (Picture from: Carscoops)

This latest creation marks a departure from tradition in several key aspects. For 25 years, Donkervoort has relied on Audi-sourced turbocharged engines to power its machines. However, with the P24 RS, the company is set to introduce a completely new powertrain, a development that has been described as a groundbreaking innovation. While details remain scarce, company head Denis Donkervoort has hinted that this engine will be a true game-changer, potentially developed entirely in-house. Given Donkervoort’s history of prioritizing power and agility, it’s safe to assume that the P24 RS will deliver an exhilarating driving experience that surpasses even the F22 Final Five, which boasted 492 horsepower from its turbocharged five-cylinder engine.

Teaser image of the Donkervoort P24 RS, named after the founder's second child, marking the end of Audi power after 25 years. (Picture from: TopGear)

Beyond sheer performance, the P24 RS also carries a personal touch, reflecting the heritage of the Donkervoort family. The ‘P’ in its name is a tribute to Phébe, Denis Donkervoort’s second daughter, born in 2024. This naming tradition follows the precedent set by the F22, which was named after his first daughter, Filippa, born in 2022. Meanwhile, the ‘RS’ designation draws inspiration from the legendary D8 270 RS, a model that cemented Donkervoort’s reputation by setting a production car lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 2006.

While the full specs of the P24 RS remain undisclosed, one thing is clear: Donkervoort remains committed to its core philosophy of lightweight engineering. (Picture from: TopGear)

While the full specifications of the P24 RS remain under wraps, one thing is certain: Donkervoort is staying true to its core philosophy of lightweight engineering. The final version of the F22 tipped the scales at just 716 kg (1,578 lbs), resulting in an extraordinary power-to-weight ratio of 698 hp per tonne. This allowed it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a blistering 2.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 290 km/h (180 mph). Given this precedent, expectations for the P24 RS are sky-high, with enthusiasts eagerly anticipating how far the company will push the boundaries of performance.

Donkervoort says the P24 RS will serve as a “sister car,” to the F22, but will have its own distinct character. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Although Donkervoort has described the P24 RS as a “sister car” to the F22, it promises to have its own distinct personality. The company has emphasized that while both models share a commitment to driver engagement and lightweight construction, the P24 RS is designed to elevate performance even further. More than just a speed machine, it aims to redefine customer service and customization, offering buyers an experience tailored to their exact preferences. | sJYW-6kl_FU |

With a legacy built on precision engineering, record-breaking speed, and an unwavering commitment to driver enjoyment, Donkervoort’s next chapter is set to be its most exciting yet. The P24 RS is not just another supercar—it’s a bold statement of innovation and ambition, carrying the weight of history while paving the way for the future. We'll wait and see.👀 *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DONKERVOORT | CARSCOOPS | TOPGEAR ]

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From Engines to Icons: Yamaha’s Impact on Toyota and Global Cars

Engine Alchemy - When we talk about legends in the world of automobiles, our minds usually jump straight to names that have shaped streets and circuits alike. But what happens when two titans from different ends of Japan’s industrial spectrum—one with roots in motorcycles and music, the other in mass-market automobiles—join forces? You get a collection of vehicles so unique, they feel like secret treasures only true enthusiasts know about. That’s the kind of collaboration Yamaha and Toyota have nurtured over the years—quiet, consistent, and surprisingly impactful.

The legendary 1967 Toyota 2000GT or 'Japanese E-Type' turn out using Yamaha engine. (Picture from: Hemmings)

Peugeot Crisalys: Sbarro’s Bold Take on Automotive Innovation

Beautiful Creations - Peugeot has long been known for its innovative design and engineering, with a strong heritage of collaboration that brings forward unique automotive creations. In one remarkable project in the late 1990s, the French carmaker partnered with the Espace Sbarro in Switzerland to create a distinctive concept car that would capture the imagination of enthusiasts. 

The Crisalys posed with Franco Sbarro, is a unique Peugeot with a mid-engine layout and cabriolet functionality, crafted by the Espace Sbarro. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)

This project, spearheaded by renowned designer Franco Sbarro and his students, aimed to rethink the coupe form with an exciting blend of Peugeot's established engineering and Sbarro's creative touch. The result was the Crisalys, a unique Peugeot with a mid-engine layout and cabriolet functionality, unlike anything Peugeot had produced before.

Both coupé and cabriolet, thanks to a retractable roof that foreshadows that of the future Peugeot 206 CC. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvet.fr)

The foundation of the Crisalys is rooted in Peugeot's acclaimed 406 Coupé, which was originally designed by Pininfarina and featured a powerful V6 engine. In creating the Crisalys, Sbarro's students took the mechanical components from the 406 but modified the vehicle's layout significantly. Instead of the front-wheel drive typical of Peugeot, they reimagined the car as a rear-wheel-drive with the engine repositioned to a transverse rear mid-configuration.

Perhaps for lack of time, the competition version of the Crisalys remained at the stage of a non-driving model. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvet.fr)

This unconventional setup allowed for a new distribution of weight and balance, which enhanced the driving dynamics and gave the car an entirely new character. They retained the 406's V6 engine but fine-tuned it for greater performance, reaching 220 horsepower.

The Peugeot Crisalys, powered by a fine-tuned 406 V6 engine reaching 220 horsepower, features a transverse rear mid-engine layout with rear-wheel drive. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvet.fr)

The design of the Crisalys goes beyond mechanical innovation, displaying a careful blend of aesthetics and functionality. Its chassis, crafted with Sbarro's "Dual Frame" concept, separates the car’s powertrain structure from its body and passenger space. This construction method provides both flexibility and stability, as the two frames are connected by pneumatic spheres, enhancing handling and roadholding. 

Unusual colors for the Crisalys interior. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvet.fr)

Such thoughtful engineering combined with a sleek exterior design reflects Peugeot’s brand identity, echoing the 406 Coupé’s signature style, especially in its front and rear lights. A standout feature of the Crisalys is its retractable hardtop roof, inspired by the later Peugeot 206 CC. The roof can slide seamlessly between the passenger and engine compartments, transforming the coupe into a cabriolet with a clean, open profile.

The yellow and blue upholstery has been replaced by a more classic blue and grey interior. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvet.fr)

One of the Crisalys’ boldest design statements lies in its details. From its sliding roof to its aggressive rear design with four exhaust outlets and all-red taillights, every aspect of this vehicle reflects a commitment to performance-oriented aesthetics. Unique side air intakes enhance the car’s sporty look, and a surprising lack of exterior mirrors further contributes to its streamlined appearance. 

The Peugeot Crisalys features ruby-red taillights and four tailpipes at the rear. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvet.fr)

Inside, Sbarro’s students opted for an unconventional color palette, using vibrant blue and yellow accents, giving the interior a fresh, modern look. These choices were realized through innovative materials like polyester and fiberglass, which allowed for a lightweight body crafted from a life-size mold.

The stern of the Peugeot Crisalys is a little massive as it conceals the engine and retractable roof. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvet.fr)

The Crisalys represents not only the skill of the students at Espace Sbarro but also their ability to meet the standards set by a major automotive brand like Peugeot. In only a short period, they brought to life a fully functional prototype that debuted at the 1998 Geneva Motor Show, demonstrating the team's impressive dedication and capability. The Crisalys became a testament to the power of collaboration between industry and academia, blending Peugeot’s design philosophy with Sbarro’s boundary-pushing approach to car making.

Exhibited as a mid-engined berlinetta prototype, the Crisalys made a striking impression with its refined, flowing lines and assertive stance, capturing the essence of Peugeot’s brand while showcasing a bold new direction. The Crisalys V6 project stands as a unique chapter in Peugeot's history and remains a symbol of the innovation possible when creativity meets engineering. This remarkable vehicle not only highlights Peugeot’s adaptability and vision but also the potential of future generations to push automotive design forward. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SBARRO.PHCALVET.FR | CARSTYLING.RU | ]

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Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto: The Soul of 1960s Road Racing

Mechanical Poetry - In a world where cars often blend into one another with similar shapes, colors, and even personalities, there exists a rare breed of automotive masterpieces that defy time and repetition. These aren’t just machines built for motion—they are moving works of art, crafted with passion, and born with a soul. Among the few that have earned a permanent place in the hearts of enthusiasts, collectors, and racers alike, one name stands out not only for its pedigree but for the emotions it stirs every time its engine roars to life: the Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto.

The Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto, first unveiled at the 1959 Paris Salon, marked the beginning of a new chapter in Ferrari’s road-racing legacy. (Picture from: F1rstMotor)

Unveiled to the public at the 1959 Paris Salon, the Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto—better known as the SWB (Short Wheelbase)—was more than just a stunning debut. It marked the start of a new chapter in Ferrari’s road-racing legacy. This wasn’t a car that needed a second chance to impress. With just a few tweaks like colder spark plugs, racing tires, and a roll-bar, it could leap from the showroom floor straight onto the racetrack and hold its own with ease. In fact, it wasn’t unusual to see these very cars battle it out for podium finishes at weekend races, only to be driven home again afterward.

The Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto was designed by the legendary Pininfarina, with bodywork masterfully executed by Scaglietti in Modena. (Picture from: F1rstMotor)

At the heart of the Berlinetta Passo Corto beats a glorious 3.0-liter V12 engine that delivers 280 horsepower. While that number might not seem extraordinary by today’s standards, it’s essential to remember the context: a feather-light frame weighing just 960 kilograms and a chassis built with surgical precision. The result? A car capable of reaching a top speed of 268 km/h and doing it with an elegance and control that few modern machines can replicate.

The Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto was initially sculpted entirely in aluminum for optimal performance, though later versions reserved the lightweight material for competition models while standard models used steel bodies that preserved the same breathtaking curves and proportions. (Picture from: Ferrari)

Ferrari entrusted the design of this iconic model to the legendary Pininfarina, while the bodywork was masterfully executed by Scaglietti in Modena. Early versions were sculpted entirely in aluminum, emphasizing performance and weight-saving for racing purposes. Over time, aluminum was reserved mainly for competition models, while others retained their allure with steel bodies, still retaining the same breathtaking curves and proportions.

The Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto offers a uniquely refined driving experience with its white upholstery, classic three-spoke steering wheel, and clean, minimalist dashboard. (Picture from: DKEng)

The chassis itself was a marvel of its time. Based on a 2400 mm wheelbase—hence the “Passo Corto” designation—it featured a familiar yet refined construction of twin oval-section longitudinal members with robust cross-bracing. Suspension came in the form of independent coil springs and wishbones at the front, while the rear relied on a solid axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs and radius arms. The ride was balanced and responsive, giving the car a unique dual personality: a fierce competitor on the track and a refined tourer on the open road.

The Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto is powered by a glorious 3.0-liter V12 engine that delivers an impressive 280 horsepower. (Picture from: DKEng)

By 1960, the Berlinetta had evolved into an even more focused version. The quarter window behind the door was removed, giving the car a cleaner, more aggressive profile. Ferrari’s engineers further refined the chassis, especially for the ’61 competition models, using lighter gauge tubing for improved agility. This attention to detail wasn’t just about performance—it was about maintaining Ferrari’s philosophy that form and function must exist in harmony.

The Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto evolved into a more focused version by 1960, with the removal of the quarter window behind the door creating a cleaner, more aggressive profile. (Picture from: Sale.Nutytrhg.cfd)

Comparisons have often been drawn between the Pininfarina-designed Berlinetta and the more radical Bertone-bodied 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Speciale. While both share the same DNA and performance ambition, the Passo Corto is the more restrained, pure expression of Ferrari’s road-racing intent. It doesn’t scream for attention—it commands it, with timeless design, a thunderous V12, and a silhouette that could make any car lover pause mid-sentence.

The 1961 Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto Competizione featured a further refined chassis, as Ferrari’s engineers employed lighter gauge tubing to reduce weight and enhance agility, making it even more competitive on the track. (Picture from: Pinterest)

Over the years, the 250 GT Berlinetta Passo Corto has become more than a vintage Ferrari—it has become a symbol of the brand’s golden era. It represents a time when craftsmanship, engineering, and design were pushed to their limits not by computers or wind tunnels, but by visionaries who understood that a great car is not just about speed—it’s about soul. | xUdJqxm9eLw | yNqmTtKU04Y |

Today, as the automotive world races toward electric futures and digital dashboards, the SWB stands proudly as a reminder of how beautiful and thrilling simplicity can be. It’s not just remembered—it’s revered. And for anyone lucky enough to witness one in motion, the feeling is unforgettable. *** [EKA  FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | RETROMANIA4EVER ON X | F1RSTMOTOR | AUTOEXQUIS | WIKIPEDIA | MOTO VITELLONI IN FACEBOOK | DKENG.CO.UK ]

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Donatini MB 8: Argentina’s Forgotten 8-Wheeled Engineering Marvel

Monocoque Mastery - When you think of groundbreaking cars, it's easy to imagine the glitz of high-end showrooms, futuristic concept sketches from major automakers, or the roar of engines on a Formula 1 track. But sometimes, the most fascinating vehicles are born not in billion-dollar facilities but in backyards, away from the spotlight. That’s exactly the case with the Donatini MB 8—a one-of-a-kind prototype that redefines what passion and ingenuity can create. More than just a car, it's the physical embodiment of a dream that refused to fade.

The Donatini MB 8 made its final public appearance at Autoclassic 2024, held in the picturesque gardens of the San Isidro racecourse, where it stood as a striking reminder of Argentina’s boldest engineering vision. (Picture from: AutoMundo)

The Donatini MB 8 wasn’t just another engineering project; it was a personal mission. Designed and built by Raúl Donatini, a self-taught inventor from Argentina, the MB 8 is a sports car that challenges conventional design from the ground up. It all started with a childhood fascination for suspension systems and years of tinkering with motorcycles and race cars. When life forced Donatini away from his previous careers due to health issues, he turned to a secluded beach town and began crafting something extraordinary using little more than an electric welder, sheer determination, and a vivid imagination.

The Donatini MB 8 is a remarkable 8-wheeled road beast, engineered to soar down the tarmac at nearly 300 km/h while maintaining exceptional stability—powered by a 3.5-liter Mercedes-Benz M116 V8 engine delivering 200 hp through a 4-speed manual transmission, all anchored by its radically unconventional suspension system. (Picture from: AutoMundo)

What makes the Donatini MB 8 so unique isn’t just its story—it’s the engineering that underpins it. This car was designed to fly down roads at nearly 300 km/h while staying perfectly stable, all thanks to a radically different suspension system. The front features a rocker arm setup that keeps the car level by distributing load between the wheels in a way that minimizes body roll, mimicking the smooth glide of a speedboat slicing through water. The rear axle, too, has a clever design: a single spring working with two shock absorbers to balance the load across four tires. And yes, the car has eight wheels—split across three axles—for enhanced grip and stability.

The Donatini MB 8 is not only unique for the visionary engineering that underpins it, but also for details like its unusual dual-hinged cockpit access system—just one of many inventive solutions that set this hand-built prototype apart. (Picture from: AutoMundo)

The body of the MB 8 follows the same philosophy: form follows function, with aerodynamic lines that aren’t just for show. A special ground-effect design helps keep the car planted, with air intakes and exhaust shaping the airflow in precise, performance-enhancing ways. Every panel, from the wheel covers (as you can see at the early model) to the trunk lid, bolts onto a lightweight monocoque chassis made from steel tubing and sheet metal—optionally enhanced with aluminum.

The Donatini MB 8 embodies a form-follows-function philosophy, with aerodynamic lines, ground-effect design, and precisely shaped intakes and exhausts that enhance performance and keep it firmly planted at speed. (Picture from: AutoMundo)

Under the sleek, low-slung body sits a powerful heart: a 3.5-liter Mercedes-Benz M116 V8 engine delivering 200 horsepower through a four-speed manual transmission. Placed over the rear axle, this setup achieves a perfectly balanced weight distribution—rare in even the most modern supercars. Disc brakes on all six wheels bring this powerhouse to a confident stop, completing a setup that’s as practical as it is ambitious.

The Donatini MB8 made its debut at the 2003 El Garage exhibition in Costa Salguero, captivating both engineers and automotive enthusiasts. (Picture from: DonatiniMB8)

Though it took four years of meticulous work—two spent on the road, one on testing, and one on the bodywork—the MB 8 eventually roared to life. Donatini didn’t have a factory or a team of engineers. He had a backyard, some tools, and the unwavering support of his wife, Victoria Greci. With no neighbors in sight, the couple lifted and fitted heavy components together, crafting what would eventually become one of Argentina’s most ambitious automotive projects.

The Donatini MB8 sat on display at the 2003 El Garage exhibition in Costa Salguero, turning heads with its radical design and engineering audacity. (Picture from: DonatiniMB8)

The MB 8 debuted in 2003 at El Garage exhibition in Costa Salguero, drawing the attention of engineers and enthusiasts alike. Its design even made it to Italy, and according to Donatini, elements of its unique suspension concept found echoes in Formula 1 cars shortly after. While its legacy may not be known globally, those who encounter it can’t help but marvel at how one man’s vision quietly influenced the very cutting edge of motorsport engineering. | geEKCniaiTg |

Today, the Donatini MB 8 stands not merely as a prototype, but as a lasting symbol that innovation doesn’t belong solely to high-end labs or massive corporations—sometimes, all it takes is a vision, a welder, and relentless determination to create something truly original; and while it’s not the only multi-wheeled machine of its kind—Indonesia introduced a six-wheeled custom car called Hati Nurani - Walang Kadung by Kupu-Kupu Malam Auto Custom in 2015—the MB 8 remains a rare, handcrafted marvel that reminds us ingenuity still thrives outside the mainstream. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DONATINIMB8 | AUTOHISTORIA | AUTOMUNDO | AR.MOTOR1 | SIXMANIA.FR | ULTIMATECARPAGE | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS ON FACEBOOK | WEIRDWHEELS ON REDDIT ]

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BMW Concept Speedtop: The Ultimate Expression of Style and Speed

Rareforce Elegance - In the world of high-performance cars, every once in a while, a creation comes along that doesn’t just push boundaries—it reinvents them. That’s exactly what BMW has done with its latest masterpiece, the BMW Concept Speedtop. Debuted at the iconic 2025 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy, this stunning machine isn't just a showpiece; it’s a rare blend of artistry, power, and exclusivity, wrapped in the silhouette of a car that dares to be different.

The BMW Concept Speedtop builds on the legacy of last year’s Concept Skytop by taking the robust 8-Series platform and transforming it into a refreshingly unexpected three-door Grand Tourer with a fastback twist, inspired by the elegant and practical shooting brake format. (Picture from: MotoMobiNews)

The BMW Concept Speedtop didn’t just appear out of thin air. It builds on the legacy of last year’s Concept Skytop, a convertible that turned heads with its bold styling. This time, the designers under the leadership of Adrian van Hooydonk—BMW’s Head of Design—chose a different path. Inspired by the elegant and practical shooting brake format, the Speedtop takes the robust platform of the 8-Series and transforms it into something refreshingly unexpected: a three-door Grand Tourer with a fastback twist.

The BMW Concept Speedtop debuted at the iconic 2025 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy, and this stunning machine isn't just a showpiece — it’s a rare blend of artistry and power. (Picture from: MotoMobiNews)

This isn’t simply a modified 8-Series. The Speedtop carries a completely reshaped body that oozes confidence, featuring a short rear overhang and a hatchback-like profile, all while maintaining the aggressive stance of a sports tourer. What truly sets it apart visually, though, is its exquisite color palette. The body wears a vibrant shade of Floating Sunstone Maroon, contrasted by a seamless gradient roof that fades into Floating Sundown Silver—an artistic transition that demonstrates BMW’s exploration into new paint techniques. Subtle design cues like the hidden door handles and custom two-tone 14-spoke wheels amplify its sleek yet muscular character.

The BMW Concept Speedtop features a shark-nose front end combined with a raked roofline and ducktail rear, creating a low-slung GT. (Picture from: MotoMobiNews)

Step inside, and the BMW Concept Speedtop continues to impress. The cabin is a rich, handcrafted lounge, designed for the ultimate driving experience—alone or with a single lucky passenger. Gone are the rear seats; in their place is an extended luggage area wrapped in fine leather, turning utility into luxury. The two-tone leather interior, blending Sundown Maroon with Moonstone White, is stitched and fitted with the precision of bespoke tailoring. And just behind the seats lie leather compartments for personal items, secured with elegant straps and completed by an exclusive luggage set from Italian leather artisan Schedoni—because no detail is too small when exclusivity is the goal.

The BMW Concept Speedtop continues to impress inside with a rich, handcrafted cabin designed for the ultimate driving experience—either solo or with a single lucky passenger. (Picture from: MotoMobiNews)

But beauty and craftsmanship aren’t all this machine has to offer. Underneath that sculpted hood lies a powertrain that roars with purpose. BMW hasn’t revealed the exact engine specs, but hints point to the same fire-breathing 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 used in the M8 Competition. That would mean an exhilarating 617 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque, delivered through an 8-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. To harness that performance, the Speedtop is equipped with M-level components like adaptive suspension and carbon ceramic brakes, ensuring that this car performs as precisely as it looks.

The BMW Concept Speedtop features a heavily angled fastback tailgate at the rear that prioritizes design over boot space. (Picture from: Autocar)

What truly defines the Speedtop, however, is its rarity. BMW is crafting only 70 units of this concept-turned-reality, all meticulously built by hand at the BMW Manufactory in Dingolfing, Germany. It's an ultra-limited production run, made even more exclusive by the fact that it’s likely only available in Europe. Despite whispers of a price north of half a million dollars, interested buyers—mostly existing BMW enthusiasts and seasoned collectors—are eagerly lining up. Some units may already be spoken for, but BMW is still entertaining new inquiries, as long as you’re quick enough.

The BMW Concept Speedtop is more than a car—it’s a statement. A fusion of passion, design innovation, and engineering excellence, it stands as a bold reminder that when creativity meets craftsmanship, the result can be nothing short of breathtaking. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOCAR | OBSCURESUPERCAR ON X ]

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