Larkin Feroxa V8: Lightweight British Speedster Revives Pure Driving Thrill

Pure Machine - Ever get the feeling that cars today are trying too hard? Between overloaded touchscreens, overprotective driver aids, and tech that seems to think it knows better than you do, the simple joy of driving feels like it's slipping away. The road used to be a place to reconnect—with the car, the moment, and yourself. Now, it’s often just another interface. But at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, something different caught the spotlight. A sleek, roofless machine built not around apps or algorithms, but around driving itself: the Feroxa V8.

The Larkin Feroxa V8, a sleek and roofless sports car built for driving, not digital gimmicks, stole the spotlight at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

The man behind it is Douglas Larkin, a British engineer who’s spent years working at Aston Martin and Jaguar Land Rover. These days, he leads a company called Capture Point, specializing in 3D scanning and reverse engineering for everything from Formula 1 to restomod builds. But this project? This one’s personal. It’s the kind of car Larkin always dreamed of building—a raw, mechanical, driver-focused sports car with roots in classic British motoring.

The Larkin Feroxa V8 is a bespoke sports car developed using the chassis of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, specifically from the 2006 to 2018 production models, combining proven engineering with a fresh, lightweight design. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

Rather than start from zero, Larkin chose to build the Feroxa V8 using the chassis from the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, specifically the 2006–2018 models. That means it’s based on Aston’s VH platform, a bonded aluminum structure known for its strength and lightness. Of course, he didn’t just drop on a new body and call it a day. The chassis has been re-engineered where needed to suit the Feroxa’s speedster shape and performance goals. Only manual transmissions will be offered, and buyers can choose either left- or right-hand drive layouts.

The Larkin Feroxa V8 features a re-engineered chassis tailored to its speedster form and performance goals, offering only manual transmission with a choice of left- or right-hand drive. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

Visually, the Feroxa calls back to a golden era—when British sports cars were small, low, and full of character. Think AC Ace, early Lotus Elan, or even the racing spirit of an Aston Martin DBR 1. Its carbon fiber bodywork isn’t just about style; it helps the car hit a target curb weight of under 2,866 pounds. That’s significantly lighter than the original V8 Vantage, and a huge win for performance.

The Larkin Feroxa V8 prototype, shown at Goodwood with an unfinished interior, clearly remains a work in progress rather than a polished showpiece. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

Under the hood, Larkin plans to retain the V8 Vantage’s 4.3-liter naturally aspirated V8, but with meaningful upgrades. A new exhaust system, custom headers, and a lightened flywheel help push output from the original 380 horsepower to around 420. It’s not about chasing the biggest numbers—it's about maximizing the connection between driver and machine. That said, there will be options. For those who want even more punch, Larkin intends to accommodate donor cars with V12 engines, raising output beyond 500 horsepower. He’s also in talks with Bamford Rose, a respected Aston Martin tuner, to offer enhanced V8 builds for even more excitement.

The Larkin Feroxa V8 features carbon fiber bodywork that not only enhances its style but also helps achieve a target curb weight under 2,866 pounds—significantly lighter than the original V8 Vantage and a major advantage for performance. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

Inside, the prototype is still under construction. The car shown at Goodwood didn’t yet have a finished interior—proof that this is a work in progress, not just a concept for the cameras. But what’s already clear is the intent: simplicity, performance, and presence. No screens, no fluff—just the essentials needed for a great drive.

The Larkin Feroxa V8 retains the 4.3-liter naturally aspirated V8 from the original Vantage, enhanced with a new exhaust system, custom headers, and a lightened flywheel to boost output from 380 to around 420 horsepower. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

Only ten units are planned for production, making the Feroxa V8 a truly rare machine. Pricing hasn’t been finalized, and will likely depend on donor car choice and final configuration. Development is ongoing, but Larkin expects to complete the prototype by the end of the year, with a full reveal set for next spring. | R816bsueEDM |

In a market crowded with fast cars that feel more like gadgets than machines, the Feroxa V8 offers something refreshingly honest. It’s light, analog, and built with a clear purpose: to put the driver back at the center of the experience. Whatever shape the final version takes, the vision is already loud and clear—and for those who still crave a proper drive, that’s more than enough to get excited about. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LARKIN | CARBUZZ | HAGERTY | HOTCARS  ] 

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Kelmark GT: A Wild 1970s Kit Car Built in Your Driveway

Fiberglass Fever - In the wild days of the 1970s, when car design was unchained and garages were playgrounds for dreamers armed with wrenches and ambition, a small company from Michigan dared to think differently. This was an era when the scent of gasoline mixed with fiberglass resin filled suburban neighborhoods, and visions of exotic machines took shape in backyards. Among all the creations of this gearhead golden age, one stood out for its boldness, creativity, and slightly eccentric execution: the Kelmark GT. Part Ferrari fantasy, part muscle car monster, and all homegrown ingenuity, the Kelmark GT wasn’t just a kit car—it was a personal adventure on four wheels.

The Kelmark GT—possibly a 1974 Model 1 pictured—featured a sleek fiberglass body inspired by the Ferrari Dino 206 and 246, powered by a big-block Olds 455, yet was built in home garages using scavenged parts. (Picture from: RareCarNetwork)

The story begins in 1969 with two men: Russ Keller and Randy Markham. Combining their last names, they formed Kelmark, a company based in Okemos, Michigan, with the audacious mission to help everyday people drop big, growling engines into small cars—most notably, the humble Volkswagen Beetle and the Chevrolet Corvette. Their early effort, the Kelmark Sleeper, was a brilliant bait-and-switch: a Beetle that looked stock from the outside but hid a roaring V8 under the rear hood.

The Kelmark GT—possibly a 1979 Model 2 pictured—had a body widened by five inches and, in true kit car spirit, used unexpected parts like a Ford Pinto windshield and flipped side windows from a Chevrolet Caprice or Impala. (Picture from: Pinterest)

But it was in 1974 that Kelmark made its most lasting mark. That year, the first Kelmark GT hit the scene, also known as the Kelmark 1 GT. With a sleek fiberglass body that nodded lovingly toward the Ferrari Dino 206 and 246, this car looked like a million bucks—yet it was built in home garages, often with parts scavenged from scrapyards. Designed originally to be mounted on a Corvair platform or a custom mid-engine V8 layout, the Kelmark GT gave its builders options that ranged from merely ambitious to absolutely outrageous.

 

That same year, Kelmark introduced the Kelmark 2 GT. To make it compatible with the widely available VW Beetle chassis, the company widened the body by five inches. In true kit car spirit, components came from unexpected sources: a Ford Pinto donated its windshield, while Chevrolet Caprice or Impala side windows were flipped to fit. This creative parts mash-up gave the car a signature charm and an unmistakably DIY character. | fpnZpth8AeE |

Kelmark didn’t stop there. The lineup soon expanded with variations that each offered their own personality. The Kelmark GT Independence was tailored for Volkswagen and Porsche Type 4 engines, offering a lighter and more European-feeling driving experience. The GTS edition came in silver and often housed a Buick 231 cubic inch V6, bringing more muscle to the mix. For those seeking a bit more comfort, the Kelmark GT Chairman offered air conditioning, leather seats, and a stereo system—though its rear-heavy weight distribution, especially with the Buick V6, made handling a bit of an adventure. 

The Kelmark GT—possibly an Independance model pictured—was tailored for Volkswagen and Porsche Type 4 engines, offering a lighter and more European-feeling driving experience. (Picture from: Wikimeida)

Then came the beast: the Kelmark Toronado GT. Built on a custom tubular frame, it housed enormous Oldsmobile Toronado powerplants—either 425 or 455 cubic inch engines—paired with the durable THM 425 transmission. One version reportedly used a monstrous 700 horsepower ZL1 big-block engine, managing a mind-blowing top speed of 202.7 mph in 1977. That feat made it the fastest street-legal car documented at the time, outpacing even Ferraris and Lamborghinis, though likely with a fair bit more rattle.

The interior view of this Kelmark GT—possibly a 1979 Model 2—reveals a blend of comfortable luxury and a more refined, European-style driving experience. (Picture from: Wikimeida)

The Kelmark Liberator was another ambitious entry, designed to accept anything from VW engines to burly V8s. Around 200 units were built, contributing to an overall production run that’s estimated to fall somewhere between a few hundred and 1,200 cars across all variants. By the 1980s, Kelmark production wound down, with the final units reportedly assembled in Holt, Michigan.

 

Even long after the last Kelmark GT rolled out of a garage, the car has continued to inspire a passionate niche of enthusiasts. Some families built them together as weekend projects, others spent years restoring their Kelmarks piece by piece.  

The rear view of this V8-engined Kelmark GT—possibly a Liberator model—shows an ambitious design built to accommodate everything from VW engines to powerful V8s. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Today, the Kelmark GT still pops up at classic car shows and online forums, its owners sharing tips, tales, and the occasional complaint about cracked fiberglass. Debates about whether it outshines rivals like the Bradley GT still bubble up, but those conversations only add to the legend. | Hr9dKDfOJ1c |

The Kelmark GT wasn’t just a car—it was an idea made real with hand tools and heart. In a time when building a dream car in your own driveway seemed almost reasonable, this strange, beautiful machine gave hundreds of people the chance to live that dream, even if just for a Sunday drive. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | WEB.ARCHIVE.ORG | FIBERCLASSICS.ORG | RARECARNETWORK | HOTROD | CLASSICAUTOMALL | GRASSROOTSMOTORSPORTS ]

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The McLaren P1 Spider by Lanzante Is Real—and It’s Absolutely Stunning

Roofless Masterpiece - There’s something undeniably magical about open-top driving. The way the wind rushes past, the engine's roar reverberates under the sky, and the road becomes a stage for raw, unfiltered speed. It’s an experience that goes beyond performance metrics and spec sheets—one that’s more visceral, more alive. That might explain why certain cars just feel destined to shed their roofs, even if they weren’t originally designed that way. Enter the McLaren P1 Spider by Lanzante—a rare, unexpected twist on a modern hypercar icon that took the spotlight in the most unforgettable way at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The McLaren P1 Spider by Lanzante—a rare, unexpected twist on a modern hypercar icon that took the spotlight in the most unforgettable way at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

While the original McLaren P1 was never offered in a Spider configuration, Lanzante’s vision has reimagined it in a form so convincing, it feels like it always should’ve existed. Prior to its unveiling at Goodwood, the British firm teased a few early sketches. Yet, even the most detailed renderings couldn’t quite capture what it’s like to witness the real thing in the flesh. Sleek, aggressive, and elegant in equal measure, the P1 Spider commands attention with a presence that doesn’t scream—it simply owns the road.

A sketch of the McLaren P1 Spider by Lanzante reveals a sleek, aggressive, and elegant design that quietly commands the road with confidence. (Picture from: id.Motor1)

The idea wasn’t born from a boardroom, but from the passion of a single McLaren P1 owner who approached Lanzante with a bold request: turn the hardtop P1 into an open-air masterpiece. Rather than producing this as a one-off, Lanzante chose to create just five examples of the Spider, each a bespoke piece of automotive art. One of them wears the legendary Gulf livery—a nod to racing history that feels right at home on such a futuristic machine.

The McLaren P1 Spider by Lanzante demanded intricate engineering revisions, as removing the roof and its central scoop required a complete redesign of airflow dynamics, including a reshaped decklid to keep the 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 cool without compromising its striking silhouette. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Transforming a hypercar like the P1 into a Spider wasn’t as easy as slicing off the roof. Lanzante faced complex engineering challenges, particularly since the original design relies on the central roof scoop to cool its potent 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8. With that gone, the team had to completely rethink the airflow dynamics, reshaping the decklid to maintain engine temperatures without disturbing the car’s stunning silhouette.

The McLaren P1 Spider by Lanzante required a complete structural overhaul, including a reworked carbon fiber monocell and reinforced A-pillars for stability. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Structural integrity also needed a serious rethink. The carbon fiber monocell had to be reworked to handle the lack of a roof, and the base of the A-pillars was reinforced to keep everything solid at speed. The doors—famous for their dramatic dihedral opening—were also redesigned, as their original mechanics depended on the roof’s presence. Every element had to blend function with form, maintaining the P1’s unmistakable lines while accommodating the open-air design. | MXUfFKnPB2U |

Inside, Lanzante continued the transformation with a mix of purpose and luxury. The cabin now features weather-resistant superfabric upholstery that’s both stylish and durable. Matte and gloss black carbon fiber accents give the cockpit a modern, high-tech feel without overpowering the design. It’s clear that no detail was overlooked, and every change feels intentional rather than ornamental.

Lanzante chose to build only five bespoke P1 Spiders, including one finished in the iconic Gulf livery—a tribute to racing heritage on a futuristic canvas. (Picture from: F1rstMotors)

Though there’s no official word yet on when—or if—these rare Spider variants will be made available to potential buyers, what’s certain is that Lanzante has achieved something truly remarkable. They’ve taken a modern hypercar that already pushed the envelope and elevated it with a fresh perspective, all while honoring its core identity. The P1 Spider is more than a rework; it’s a reimagination done with precision, taste, and deep respect for the car’s legacy.

The McLaren P1 Spider by Lanzante, finished in the iconic Gulf livery, features an interior color scheme that perfectly complements its exterior. (Picture from: F1rstMotors)

Lanzante’s limited-run creation is a masterclass in how vision and craftsmanship can breathe new life into something already considered a modern classic. It may have taken one owner's dream to set things in motion, but the result is a car that speaks to anyone who understands what makes driving so exhilarating in the first place. And with the sky above and the twin-turbo V8 behind, the McLaren P1 Spider doesn’t just look better in the flesh—it feels more alive than ever. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BLACKXPERIENCE | ID.MOTOR1 | F1RSTMOTORS | CARSCOOPS | MOTORAUTORITY ]

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The Forgotten Future of Japanese Sports Cars by Marcello Gandini

Conceptual Grit - When you think of the name Marcello Gandini, your mind likely drifts to the wedge-shaped brilliance of the Lamborghini Countach or the flowing lines of the Lancia Stratos. But beyond his well-known Italian masterpieces, Gandini quietly left his mark on Japan’s automotive world with just one creation—an overlooked gem that merged visionary design with forward-thinking tech. Enter the 1993 Nissan AP-X Concept.

The Nissan AP-X Concept, designed by Marcello Gandini, showcased his unmistakable touch through daring lines, sharply sculpted features, and signature diagonally cut rear wheel arches, giving it a futuristic presence grounded in real-world potential. (Picture from: JapaneseNostalgiaCar)

Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the AP-X was more than just another flashy prototype. It was Nissan's bold vision of a future where driving excitement met environmental responsibility. This wasn’t just lip service either. Nissan loaded the AP-X with ideas that wouldn’t show up in production cars until decades later. And at the heart of it all was Gandini’s unmistakable touch—those daring lines, sharply sculpted features, and signature diagonally cut rear wheel arches, giving the car a futuristic presence that was still grounded in real-world potential.

The Nissan AP-X Concept delivered more than performance, packing a level of technological ambition that bordered on sci-fi—especially for the early '90s. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

Though often rumored to be the next chapter after the 300ZX, the AP-X lived in its own unique space. Roughly the size of a Z32 Fairlady Z 2+2, the car sparked whispers that it might become the Z33. And it had the mechanical credibility to support that theory. Its power came from an advanced prototype engine Nissan dubbed the VQX—a 3.0-liter aluminum V6 with direct injection, molybdenum-coated pistons, and dual overhead cams. With 247 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque, it promised performance without guzzling fuel, matching the efficiency of smaller 2.0-liter sports cars.

The Nissan AP-X Concept, unveiled at the 1993 Frankfurt Motor Show, represented more than a flashy prototype—it embodied Nissan’s bold vision of a future where driving excitement met environmental responsibility. (Picture from: JapaneseNostalgiaCar)

But performance was only one side of the AP-X. Nissan packed this coupe with a level of tech ambition that bordered on sci-fi, especially for the early '90s. Super-HICAS rear-wheel steering, active limited-slip differential, and traction control gave it razor-sharp handling. ABS and carbon fiber panels helped keep things light and safe. Then came the CVT transmission—controversial now, but at the time, it was a futuristic gamble that showed Nissan’s willingness to experiment.

The Nissan AP-X Concept featured a forward-thinking dashboard with a curved display for vital safety data and ergonomically placed controls around the steering wheel to minimize distraction and enhance driver focus. (Picture from: JapaneseNostalgiaCar)

What truly made the AP-X special, however, was its obsession with safety and intelligence. Long before modern cars offered driver-assist systems, the AP-X was already scanning the road with millimeter-wave radar and infrared pedestrian sensors. It warned others of its presence, alerted emergency services in case of accidents, and even tried to keep its driver awake by monitoring eye movement. If drowsiness set in, it didn’t just beep—it released a scent into the cabin. What that scent was, no one seems to know. But it’s just one of many quirks that makes the AP-X so fascinating.

The Nissan AP-X Concept powered by an advanced prototype engine Nissan dubbed the VQX—a 3.0-liter aluminum V6 with direct injection, molybdenum-coated pistons, and dual overhead cams. (Picture from: JapaneseNostalgiaCar)

Its dashboard was equally ahead of its time, with a curved display relaying vital safety data so the driver could stay focused. Most controls were ergonomically placed around the steering wheel, reducing distraction and emphasizing control.

The Nissan AP-X Concept featured a rear brake light projected holographically onto the rear glass—a subtle detail that reinforced its futuristic character despite remaining firmly a concept. (Picture from: JapaneseNostalgiaCar)

Then there was the rear brake light—projected holographically onto the rear glass. It was one of those subtle details that made the AP-X feel like a car from the future, even if it remained firmly in the concept realm. And yes, Nissan even included dual airbags—still a brag-worthy feature back then.

The Nissan AP-X Concept never made it to production, not due to lack of readiness, as Nissan claimed it was fully capable of going straight to market with its hatchback versatility, conservative yet functional interior, and genuine usability. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

Although the AP-X never made it to production, it wasn't for lack of readiness. Nissan insisted that if they'd chosen to build it, the car was fully capable of going straight to market. With hatchback versatility, conservative yet functional interior design, and genuine usability, it could have replaced models like the 200SX, 240SX, or even the 300ZX. | femOwbPtygo |

In the end, the world never got to experience the AP-X on the open road. But what remains is its legacy—a forward-looking sports car that dared to combine raw performance with responsibility, and a rare moment where Marcello Gandini turned his gaze eastward and gave Japan one of its most intriguing what-ifs. Today, a scale model sits quietly at Nissan’s Yokohama headquarters—a fitting monument to a machine that dared to dream big and almost made it. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JAPANESENOSTALGIACAR | CARSTYLING.RU | RETROMANIA4EVER IN X ] 

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Gotham Garage’s Custom Supercar: A Wild Ride from Rust to Riches

Radical Reinvention - In a world where automotive design is constantly redefined by bold ideas and daring craftsmanship, most custom builds come and go without much fanfare. But once in a while, a creation rolls out that demands a second look—even from the most jaded car enthusiasts. One such head-turner emerged from a Californian custom shop, grabbing global attention with its radical styling and unapologetic presence. Often referred to as the Gotham Garage Concept Car (though never officially named), this extraordinary machine is far more than a flashy one-off—it’s the result of twenty years of vision, refinement, and fearless ambition.

The Gotham Garage concept car (though never officially named) was a labor of love brought to life on Netflix’s Car Masters: Rust to Riches. (Picture from: HotCars)

Born in the hands of Mark Towle, founder of Gotham Garage, the concept car was a passion project brought to life on Netflix’s Car Masters: Rust to Riches. For years, Towle had been breathing new life into vintage vehicles, turning forgotten classics into jaw-dropping showpieces. But this time, he wanted something different—something purely original. His vision was a one-of-a-kind, futuristic supercar, and the canvas he chose was a 1993 C4 Chevrolet Corvette.

The Gotham Garage concept car was a one-of-a-kind futuristic supercar built on the foundation of a 1993 C4 Chevrolet Corvette. (Picture from: ObscureSupercar on X)

At a glance, there’s little left of the original Vette’s identity. What began as an $18,000 donor car quickly transformed into a sci-fi-inspired spectacle. Underneath, it retains the stock 5.7-liter V8 engine capable of producing roughly 405 horsepower, but that’s about where the familiarity ends. With a completely rebodied exterior crafted by Starr Creations—experts in fiberglass shells for monster trucks—the car's aggressive, angular lines are as divisive as they are unforgettable. The result? A machine that looks like it rolled straight out of a futuristic film set. 

The Gotham Garage concept car retained only traces of the original Corvette’s identity, undergoing a dramatic transformation into a bold, sci-fi-inspired spectacle that looked like it came straight out of a futuristic movie. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

Open its Koenigsegg-style dihedral doors and you’re greeted by an equally customized interior. Brown leather stretches across the dash and seating, punctuated by bespoke brass-accented gauges and reupholstered Braum bucket seats. The cockpit screams boutique craftsmanship, even if the screen time on the show barely does it justice.

Opening the Gotham Garage concept car’s dihedral doors reveals a fully customized interior, where brown leather covers the dash and seats, accented by brass-trimmed gauges and reupholstered Braum bucket seats. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

But the madness doesn’t stop at four wheels. The car was paired with a custom Suzuki Hayabusa superbike—an equally extreme companion with design cues that echo the concept car’s brass detailing. Built with a wide 300-millimeter rear tire and a steel body, the bike is more than a display piece; it’s a street-legal rocket. Ironically, this particular Hayabusa was traded in for a modified Toyota Prius, proving once again that car culture never fails to surprise.

The Gotham Garage concept car appeared alongside its custom Suzuki Hayabusa superbike on Netflix’s hit reality show Car Masters: Rust to Riches, a series often noted for its dramatic flair and mixed reception. (Picture from: CarBuzz)

When it came time to sell, the Gotham Garage team staged a virtual auction, inviting six collectors to place bids remotely. Despite strong interest, the bidding fell short of Towle’s target. The final offer—$225,000—was rejected, as the team held firm on their ambitious $250,000 valuation. Months passed, and rumors swirled. Would it ever sell? Was the car too niche for serious buyers?

The concept car and its matching bike were successfully sold for $285,000 in Season 4 of Car Masters: Rust to Riches—below the original asking price, yet still a gratifying return on years of work and a relatively modest starting investment. (Picture from: ObscureSupercar on X)

Season 4 of the show brought resolution. Nick Smith, from the rare-vehicle marketplace ClassicAvenue.com, appeared with an offer from a mystery buyer. After tense negotiations and a back-and-forth over pricing, the concept car and its matching bike finally sold for a cool $285,000. While not the original asking price, it marked a satisfying payoff for years of hard work and a sizable return on a modest investment.

Since then, the Gotham Garage's concept car has resurfaced in a new look, spotted in Temecula, California, now dressed in white and green instead of its original loud orange. Whether it’s still owned by the original buyer remains uncertain, but the car’s presence near Gotham Garage suggests it's never strayed too far from home.

The Gotham Garage concept car was last seen in Temecula, California, now sporting a white and green paint job in place of its original bold orange. (Picture from: ObscureSupercar on X)

As with many so-called “reality” automotive shows, there’s been speculation about how much of the sale drama was authentic. And while skepticism lingers over some of the more theatrical moments on Rust to Riches, what can't be denied is the visual and mechanical audacity of the build. Love it or hate it, the Gotham Garage concept car is unlike anything else on the road.

Sometimes, the most unforgettable vehicles aren’t the ones with a famous badge or a six-figure engineering budget—they’re the ones that dare to be different. This car, with all its flair and flaws, is a reminder that creativity still has a place in the garage. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GOTHAM GARAGE | CARBUZZ | HOTCARS | OBSCURESUPERCAR ON X | GTMOTOSPORTS.ORG ]

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From MC20 to MCPura: Maserati’s Pure Performance Shift

Identity Shift - In the world of automotive excellence, staying ahead isn’t just about going faster—it’s about evolving with purpose. That’s exactly what Maserati has done with the latest incarnation of its acclaimed MC20. Recently unveiled at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Italian marque introduced the Maserati MCPura, a stunning evolution that blends refined design, signature performance, and unfiltered driving emotion. 

The Maserati MC20 supercar enters a new era with a bold new name, MCPura, and a refreshed design by Klaus Busse, who emphasizes that every line serves a purpose—whether for cooling, aerodynamics, or performance—while remaining wrapped in refined Italian elegance. (Picture from Autocar)

This latest iteration carries a name that highlights its essence: “Pura,” reflecting Maserati’s vision of pure energy. In a time when many high-performance cars lean into hybridization, the MCPura stands apart with its commitment to unadulterated combustion power. At its heart beats the same roaring 3.0-liter Nettuno V6 engine, delivering a thrilling 621 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels. Connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox from Tremec, it launches from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.9 seconds, reaching 186 mph in only 8.8. These numbers don’t just impress—they reinforce the car’s raw, mechanical soul in an increasingly digital age. 

The Maserati MCPura features a subtly reshaped front with a new grille and diffuser inspired by the MCXtrema track car, while a sleeker rear diffuser maintains its theme of understated performance. (Picture from RobbReport)

Though the mechanicals remain unchanged, Maserati has carefully refined the aesthetics. The front has been subtly reshaped with a new grille and front diffuser inspired by the fierce MCXtrema track car. At the back, a more streamlined diffuser continues the theme of understated performance. Designer Klaus Busse emphasized this philosophy, noting that every line of the car exists for a reason—either for cooling, aerodynamics, or sheer performance—yet all wrapped in timeless Italian elegance.

The Maserati MCPura Cielo, as pictured, showcases a flagship paint option—a shimmering triple-layer blend of blue and green—that shifts with the light, capturing attention with effortless elegance. (Picture from Autocar)

The wheel design is another thoughtful nod to the brand’s heritage. The new twin-spoke alloys echo the spirit of the 1953 Maserati A6 GCS, forging a quiet link between the brand’s storied past and its dynamic present. The color palette also sees a fresh addition: Aqua Rainbow. This flagship paint option, a shimmering triple-layer blend of blue and green, shifts its hue with the light, ensuring the MCPura always turns heads without shouting for attention.

The MCPura remains largely similar to the MC20, but features subtly updated exterior styling with redesigned front and rear fascias, along with new color options including Devil Orange, Verde Royale, and Night Interaction. (Picture from Autocar)

Inside, the cabin welcomes some tasteful updates. Alcantara now lines more of the interior, bringing a richer tactile feel. The new steering wheel, inspired by the MC20 GT2 racing variant, features a flattened top and bottom, offering better grip and a racier profile. Optional LED shift indicators add a modern touch that’s functional as well as visually engaging. 

The Maserati MCPura receives a series of tasteful interior updates, including expanded Alcantara trim for a richer feel, a new flat-top-and-bottom steering wheel inspired by the MC20 GT2 for enhanced grip and sportiness, and optional LED shift indicators that add both visual flair and functional appeal. (Picture from Autocar)

Offered in both Coupe and Cielo convertible forms, the MCPura is set to enter production this September, with customer deliveries following soon after. Maserati has confirmed that the car won’t be limited in numbers, but every unit will be built to order. This bespoke approach allows owners to personalize their MCPura, ensuring a truly unique supercar experience for each buyer.

Maserati offers the MCPura in both Coupé and Cielo convertible forms, retaining the same 3.0-liter Nettuno V6 engine that delivers 621 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels.. (Picture from Autocar)

Pricing will be announced closer to launch, though it will sit above the outgoing model, which started at around £230,000. What’s clear is that this isn’t just about refreshing a five-year-old flagship. It’s about reinforcing the character of a machine that was already exceptional—refining it without compromising what made it special in the first place. | 3mHgk_WgNKg |

In the Maserati MCPura, Maserati has sculpted more than just another chapter for the MC20. It’s a reaffirmation of the brand’s dedication to driving purity, performance excellence, and that distinct Italian flair that continues to captivate true enthusiasts. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOCAR | AUTOCAR IN X | ROBBREPORT ]

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