Futurion Craft - The world of automotive design has always been a blend of art, science, and a dash of rebellion. Every now and then, a creator emerges who refuses to follow the rules, who looks at a car not as a product but as a sculpture in motion. Among those rare visionaries stands Mike Vetter—a name that resonates with anyone who appreciates the thrill of imagination turned mechanical. His creations have long danced on the line between concept and reality, but perhaps none capture that audacious spirit quite like the Vetter Slash.
The Vetter Slash, created by Mike and Team Vetter (MTV) in 2020, is a bespoke sports car built upon the foundation of the C6 Corvette. (Picture from: CorvSport)
At first glance, the Slash doesn’t just attract your attention—it seizes it completely. Its sharp, angular silhouette cuts through convention like a blade through silk. Crafted from the ground up by Vetter Original Design, this extraordinary machine bears the unmistakable mark of its creators, Mike and Team Vetter (MTV). Every contour, crease, and surface is a direct reflection of their imagination and craftsmanship. Known for his futuristic approach to performance design, Vetter has a history of building cars that look as if they’ve leapt straight out of a sci-fi film—remarkable creations like the Extra Terrestrial Vehicle (ETV), and the Joker's car in Warner Brothers movie-titled Suicide Squad are proof of that.
The Vetter Slash features a fully fiberglass body that defines its contrasting character—sleek yet aggressive, structured yet fluid—while its removable hardtop adds versatility, shifting effortlessly from a closed-cabin powerhouse to an open-air thrill machine. (Picture from: CorvSport)
Whenthe Slashwas officially unveiled in 2020, it immediately drew attention from enthusiasts and designers alike. Displayed at events such as L’Automobile 2021, the car embodied the kind of originality rarely seen in modern automotive culture. It wasn’t a revival of a classic or a reinterpretation of an icon—it was something entirely new, a vision built from scratch. That debut marked not just another concept reveal, but a statement from Vetter himself: creativity still has horsepower. Among his many innovations, the Slash stood apart. It wasn’t merely bold—it was utterly fearless.
The Vetter Slash features doors that swing upward with Lamborghini-like drama yet add a literal twist by being rear-hinged—a daring dual-motion design few have attempted and none have executed quite as brilliantly.(Picture from: CorvSport)
Beneath its aggressively sloped hood sits a 455-horsepower GM LS3 V8 engine, a powerhouse that transforms the Slash into something much more than a pretty face. Power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels through an automatic transmission, but Vetter’s custom philosophy means no two builds have to be alike. Buyers can specify their preferred drivetrain, making each Slash a tailored work of art. Its foundation, a Corvette chassis, provides both stability and familiarity, while giving Vetter the freedom to let his imagination soar above a proven performance platform. The result is a car that feels as if it were designed from another dimension, yet still grounded in genuine engineering precision.
The Vetter Slash retains much of its C6-era interior heritage, enhanced with upgraded seats, refined trim, and subtle custom details that elevate its cabin beyond its Corvette roots.(Picture from: Motor1)
The bodywork, entirely sculpted from fiberglass, plays a starring role in the Slash’s character. It’s a study in contrast—sleek yet aggressive, structured yet flowing. The removable hardtop offers versatility, transforming the vehicle from a closed-cabin beast to an open-air thrill machine. Even the details are theatrical: illuminated badging glows subtly, while every surface seems to be cut and folded by a designer’s knife. The name “Slash” isn’t poetic metaphor—it’s descriptive reality. From the large vents carved into its fenders that exhale hot air, to the blade-like headlamps with a mesmerizing 3D depth, every angle dares you to stare a little longer.
The
Vetter Slash blends the C6 Corvette’s original cockpit with extensive
custom touches, retaining its dash and center console while adding
bespoke trim, a modern infotainment system, multiple front and rear
cameras, and a re-shaped steering wheel that gives it a uniquely crafted
feel.(Picture from: CorvSport)
The stance completes the drama. Twenty-inch wheels anchor the car to the asphalt, while massive brakes hide within—ready to rein in all that power when needed. Adjustable coilovers allow the ride height to rise or drop, tailoring the car’s presence and performance to the driver’s whim. Yet, for all its aggression, the Slash maintains an uncanny elegance. It’s the kind of car that turns heads not just because it looks fast, but because it looks like it shouldn’t exist—and somehow, does.
The Vetter Slash houses a 455-horsepower GM LS3 V8 engine beneath its sharply sloped hood, turning it into far more than just a striking showpiece.(Picture from: CorvSport)
Then there are the doors, perhaps the most conversation-starting feature of all. They swing upward with a flourish reminiscent of a Lamborghini, but with a twist—literally. The Slash’sdoors are also rear-hinged, a double-layered feat of design that few have attempted, and none have executed quite like this. It’s equal parts functional artistry and theatrical entrance, the kind of flourish that makes every entry feel like stepping onto a futuristic stage.
The
Vetter Slash wasn’t a revival of a classic or a reinterpretation of an
icon, but an entirely new creation—a vision built from scratch that
marked a bold statement from Vetter himself that creativity still has
horsepower.(Picture from: CorvSport)
Around back, the attention to detail continues with an illuminated badge perfectly integrated into the rear fascia. It’s a subtle touch that completes the Slash’s identity, glowing softly in the night as if the car itself were alive. Nothing here feels rushed or ornamental; it’s all precision, balance, and vision brought to life.
The Vetter Slash showcases meticulous craftsmanship at the rear, featuring an illuminated badge seamlessly integrated into its sculpted fascia.(Picture from: CorvSport)
Mike Vetter’s work has always been about more than machines. It’s about the art of creation—the translation of dreams into something that roars, breathes, and moves. Through his company, Vetter Original Design, he invites others to share in that process. He doesn’t just build cars for clients; he builds with them. From sketchpad to street, the journey is collaborative, personal, and endlessly inventive. It’s the “Vetter way,” where imagination doesn’t end at the drawing board—it begins there. | FanmaalwTpI | D7DNCbwy4qI |
In a world where most vehicles blur together in a sea of predictability, the Slash stands defiantly apart. It’s a modern reminder that car design can still be emotional, surprising, and deeply human. Built in an era dominated by automation and uniformity, the Slash rekindles something elemental—the desire to dream big, to create boldly, and to drive something that feels alive. Mike Vetter didn’t just design another car; he built a rolling expression of individuality. And in that sense, the Vetter Slash isn’t merely a machine—it’s a statement, one that continues to echo every time its V8 comes to life. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MTV CONCEPTS | VETTER VEHICLES IN FACEBOOK | AUTOEVOLUTION | MOTOR1 | CORVSPORT | OBSCURESUPERCAR IN X ]
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Aerodynamic Ambition - Sometimes, the most captivating chapters in automotive history are not written by global giants, but by individuals with bold visions and uncompromising passions. In the shadow of post-war reconstruction, a quiet yet determined revolution in car design was taking place in France. It wasn’t led by a big brand or a multinational corporation, but by a man who believed that the future of performance was in the air—quite literally. Charles Deutsch, a French engineer obsessed with aerodynamic efficiency, would leave a lasting impression on the world of motorsport with a car that remains a masterclass in design and ambition: the CD Peugeot SP 66.
The CD Peugeot SP 66 is designed by Charles Deutsch, a French engineer obsessed with aerodynamic efficienc, would leave a lasting impression on the world of motorsport with a car that remains a masterclass in design and ambition. (Picture from: Not_Found_33 in X)
Charles Deutsch didn’t arrive at Peugeot by chance. Before turning to the lion-branded marque, he had spent years shaping lightweight, aerodynamic race cars alongside René Bonnet under the DB (Deutsch-Bonnet) banner. When the two split in 1961, Deutsch maintained his course, focusing on advanced aerodynamic studies and continuing to compete in endurance racing. His early post-DB ventures, such as the CD Panhard LM64 entries in the 24-Hours of Le Mans 1964, demonstrated his talent and perseverance, but it wasn’t until he partnered with Peugeot that his most refined vision began to take form.
The CD Peugeot SP 66 driven by André Guilhaudin and Alain Bertaut will give up at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1967. (Picture from: Lemans-Musee24H)
The CD Peugeot SP 66, developed for the 1966 edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, was the result of intense research, clever engineering, and an unwavering focus on aerodynamics. Its body was sculpted through wind tunnel testing, an avant-garde approach at the time. Robert Choulet, an aerodynamics expert from Eiffel, was responsible for this striking silhouette, assisted by Daniel Pasquini.
The CD Peugeot SP 66 while sat on display at the Musee des 24 Heures du Mans (the Museum of the 24 Hours of Le Mans). (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Charles Deutsch (1911-1980). (Picture from: Ixocollections)
The car’s futuristic form featured long, tapered lines, double-curved vertical rear fins, and sleek, embedded headlights—all engineered to cut through the air with minimal resistance. And it wasn’t just for looks: the SP 66 achieved a remarkably low drag coefficient (SCx) of just 0.198, a figure many modern cars still struggle to match.
Underneath its aerodynamic shell, the SP 66 was no less sophisticated. Built around a lightweight chassis made from folded and riveted metal sheets, the entire frame weighed only 72 kilograms. The suspension system was unique, combining double wishbones up front with an innovative rear setup using transverse arms. Power came from a modified Peugeot 204 engine, which saw its displacement increased to 1,135 cm³, pushing output to 103 hp—a significant leap from the original 53 hp. The engine was upgraded again in 1967 to 108 hp by Le Moteur Moderne, and mated to a Peugeot-sourced transmission with a specially designed housing.
The
CD Peugeot SP 66 powered by a Peugeot inline 4-cylinder engine, made of
aluminum alloy, is installed in the rear center position, transversely
and lying down.(Picture from: Forocoches)
Despite its meticulous development, the SP 66’s track career was unfortunately plagued by misfortune. In 1966, three cars were entered into Le Mans. Their aerodynamic design and fuel efficiency made them strong contenders, especially for the energy efficiency classification. But racing, as always, is unpredictable. Technical problems and driver inexperience led all three entries to retire—two by accident, one due to clutch failure—well before the finish line. The following year, hopes were high again, with two refined SP 66sreturning after months of fine-tuning. Sadly, both had to retire, again due to engine failures.
The CD Peugeot SP 66’s futuristic form featured long, tapered lines, double-curved vertical rear fins, and sleek, embedded headlights—all engineered to cut through the air with minimal resistance.(Picture from: Forocoches)
While the SP 66 never claimed victory at Le Mans, it was never just about trophies. This car stands as a symbol of vision, technical courage, and the pursuit of efficiency in an era where brute force often overshadowed subtle engineering. Charles Deutsch’s collaboration with Peugeot, though brief and bittersweet in terms of racing results, gave birth to one of the most aerodynamic race cars of its time—one that still turns heads and earns respect among enthusiasts and engineers alike. The video below features a 1964 Panhard CD LM64, a creation by Charles Deutsch before he later joined Peugeot.
Looking back now, nearly six decades later, the CD Peugeot SP 66 isn’t remembered for its place on the podium, but for its place in history. It's a testament to what happens when art meets science, when form follows function without compromise. In a world where so many race cars come and go, the SP 66 remains—graceful, daring, and unforgettable. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | NOT_FOUND_33 IN X | IXOCOLLECTIONS | FOROCOCHES | LEMANS-MUSSE24H ]
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Maestro Works - Every era in automotive history has its quiet revolutionaries—those who dared to blur the line between mechanical function and artistic imagination. In the late 1990s, when most supercar makers were obsessed with angular aggression and brute horsepower, one man continued sculpting cars like they were living organisms. That man was Luigi Colani, the German industrial designer whose fluid, organic approach to design often looked as if it came from another planet. Around 1999, his fascination with nature’s efficiency and movement collided with one of America’s rawest symbols of muscle—the Dodge Viper.
One of the original Dodge Viper remodels (in coupe form) was created by Luigi Colani in collaboration with the Köln-based automotive company Autohaus Getra in 1999.(Picture from: RawViper)
What emerged from that unlikely meeting was the Colani–Getra Viper Remodel, a rare and mysterious creation that still sparks curiosity today, perhaps influenced by a concept he created around the same time — the Colani Mamba Concept. The collaboration, though never officially documented by Chrysler, is believed to have taken shape through Autohaus GETRA GmbH, a Cologne-based company known for its close association with the Dodge brand in Germany. Together, they reimagined the Viper not as a brutal track monster, but as a living sculpture in motion.
The original 1999 Dodge Viper (left) pictured alongside the Colani Mamba Concept (center) and the Colani–Getra Dodge Viper coupe remodel (far right).(Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Colani’s touch transformed the car’s famously aggressive stance into something more fluid and almost aquatic. His design philosophy, often described as “biodesign,” aimed to replace sharp lines with the kind of curves you’d find in nature—a dolphin’s fin, a bird’s wing, or in this case, the head of a mamba snake. The visual result was nothing short of striking. The car’s nose stretched and dipped like a creature poised to strike, while its bodywork swelled in graceful arcs that seemed to breathe rather than merely channel air.
One of the original Dodge Viper remodels (in coupe form), featuring additional headlights, was created by Luigi Colani in collaboration with the Köln-based automotive company Autohaus Getra in 1999.(Picture from: ReddIt)
One of the most distinctive details was the inclusion of extra headlamps—a subtle yet intentional break from the Viper’s traditional front fascia. It was Colani’s way of balancing functionality with aesthetic rhythm, a small change that made the car instantly recognizable. Paired with widened arches and softened contours, the remodel no longer looked like a muscle car forcing its presence—it appeared to glide, a contradiction of strength and elegance.
Dashboard view of the original Dodge Viper remodeled versions, was created by Luigi Colani in collaboration with
the Köln-based automotive company Autohaus Getra in 1999.(Picture from: Cultobjects in X)
Rumors around production numbers have only deepened the car’s mystique. Some enthusiasts claim that just three or perhaps four ofthese remodeled Viperswere ever built, split between coupe and roadster versions. Whether these cars were fully functional or simply rolling design studies is still debated. Autohaus GETRA, primarily a dealership and service operation rather than a manufacturer, likely oversaw the conversion process rather than full-scale production. Yet that limited involvement might have been precisely what allowed Colani’s artistic freedom to flourish—free from the corporate constraints of mass-market design.
One of the original Dodge Viper remodeled versions (in roadster form), said to have been produced by Autohaus Getra in 1999, with only three units reportedly built.(Picture from: Nitter.net)
Though it never achieved official recognition in the automotive press of its time, the Colani–Getra Viper has endured as a cult curiosity among collectors and design historians. The car embodies a fascinating cross-cultural moment: an American symbol of untamed horsepower reinterpreted through the eyes of a German visionary obsessed with harmony and form. Seen from today’s perspective—an age where sustainability, aerodynamics, and biomimicry are central to car design—Colani’s approach feels prophetic. His belief that beauty and efficiency are one has become a cornerstone of modern automotive philosophy.
One
of the original Dodge Viper remodeled versions (in roadster form), said
to have been produced by Autohaus Getra in 1999, with only three units
reportedly built.(Picture from: Cultobjects in X)
Diesel Daring - When the world of automobiles is discussed, there's always room for bold experimentation — the kind that turns heads and stirs curiosity. This is especially true when two legendary names come together in a creative collision that results in something both unexpected and unforgettable. That’s exactly what happened when Italian design house Zagato teamed up with Audi to create a machine that wasn't just about power or prestige, but about storytelling through design. Enter the Audi Zagato Zuma — a car that embodies passion, legacy, and a fresh take on what a compact sports car can be.
The Audi Zagato Zuma, a car that embodies passion, legacy, and a fresh take on what a compact sports car can be, and crafted as a celebration of Zagato's 80 years of craftsmanship back in 1998. (Picture from: ObscureSupercar in X)
Unveiled in 1998, the Audi Zuma was more than just a vehicle; it was a celebration. Zagato, with 80 years of craftsmanship behind it, wanted to make a bold statement — and they found the perfect canvas in Audi’s A3 platform. The Zuma didn’t just borrow this platform; it reshaped it, reimagined it, and elevated it into something altogether new. At the helm of its design was Marco Pedracini, the creative force behind the Lancia Hyena, who once again proved his flair for sculpting cars that are as agile in spirit as they are in silhouette.
The Audi Zagato Zuma based on Audi’s A3 platform, didn’t just borrow this platform; it reshaped it, reimagined it, and elevated it into something altogether new. (Picture from: Perico001 in Flickr)
Compact yet powerful, the Zuma carries a stance that feels ready to pounce — muscular but never bulky, sharp yet fluid. Its lines are sculpted with precision, channeling both speed and elegance. It’s easy to see how Zagato’s heritage of aerodynamic artistry found a modern voice in the Zuma’s proportions. This is a car that doesn’t scream for attention, but rather earns admiration through presence alone.
The Audi Zagato Zuma interior showcases the touch of true artisanship, where form follows emotion, not just function. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
What truly sets the Zuma apart, however, lies in the decision to equip it with a 1.9-liter turbodiesel engine. In a world of loud, high-revving sports cars, this quiet rebel chose a different path — one rooted in efficiency and unconventional performance. It was a daring move, but one that perfectly encapsulates Zagato’s spirit: never follow trends, always chase innovation. The result is a car that surprises not just in form, but in function — a diesel-powered sports coupe with Italian flair and German engineering precision.
The Audi Zagato Zuma powered by a 1.9-liter turbodiesel engine, this quiet rebel chose a different path — one rooted in efficiency and unconventional performance. (Picture from: ObscureSupercar in X)
Beyond the engine, every inch of the Zuma reflects a love for detail. The interior and exterior alike showcase the touch of true artisanship, where form follows emotion, not just function. And yet, despite its distinctive Italian personality, the Zuma never forgets its Audi DNA. It’s this balance that makes the car so compelling — it brings together the reliability and engineering smarts of Audi with the expressive, passionate design of Zagato. While there’s no available footage of the Zagato Zuma, here’s a look at the Zagato VM180— another unique Zagato creation based on the third-generation Toyota MR2. | 3-xhdR6Ic4s |
The Audi Zagato Zuma isn’t just a rare concept car from the late '90s; it's a moment frozen in time when design dared to challenge expectations. It reminds us that true innovation happens when boundaries are blurred — when performance meets poetry, and when heritage is reimagined through fresh eyes. In a world that often celebrates the loudest voice, the Zuma speaks softly but leaves a lasting impression — a beautifully crafted whisper of what happens when two great minds dream together. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | STORY-CARS | CARSTYLING.RU | ALLCARINDEX | OBSCURESUPERCAR IN X | PERICO001 IN FLICKR ]
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Avant Grace - Every now and then, the world of car design is graced by a mind that dares to go beyond the blueprint. Raymond Loewy was one such force—an industrial designer whose ideas helped shape the look of the modern world. From elegant trains and futuristic cars to some of the most recognizable products and branding ever made, Loewy's influence left a lasting impression. Over time, we've explored several of his standout creations in the automotive space: the bold 1941 Loewy Lincoln, the sleek 1955 Jaguar XK140 Coupe, the unforgettable 1957 BMW 507 Loewy Concept, and the striking 1959 Lancia Loraymo. Each one carried his unique style and fearless approach to form.
This one-off 1966 Jaguar E-Type, custom-designed by Raymond Loewy with coachwork by Pinchon-Parat, was publicly offered for the first time since 1970.(Picture from: CarsBonham)
But among all those creations, one car stands out—not just because of its rarity, but because it reimagined a legend. Enter the Raymond Loewy E-Type Jaguar, a car that took the already-iconic British sports car and turned it into something truly individual. Only two Jaguars were ever customized by Loewy, and sadly, only one remains today. The first—a 1955 XK140—was lost in a fire. The second—and now the only surviving—1966 Loewy Jaguarwas built uponthe revolutionary E-Typeand turned into a rolling design statement.
Raymond Loewy posed with his custom Jaguar XKE in 1966. (Picture from: MyCarQuest)
Built in collaboration with French coachbuilders Pinchon-Parat in Sens, France, the car was more than a showpiece. Loewy actually drove it during his time living in France and Monaco, using it as a personal expression of his design philosophy. The car stayed mechanically untouched—no performance upgrades or engine swaps. Instead, all the creative energy went into reshaping its appearance.
This
one-off 1966 Jaguar E-Type, custom-designed by Raymond Loewy with
coachwork by Pinchon-Parat, was publicly offered for the first time
since 1970.(Picture from: CarsBonham)
Loewy had the E-Type’s body shortened both at the front (by 25 cm) and the rear (by 12 cm), giving it a more compact and aggressive profile. The front end was reimagined with a dual-headlight setup behind plastic covers, a look that echoed jet-age styling cues. The traditional grille was swapped out for a large, oval-shaped metal intake, likely boosting the airflow and solving the original model’s known cooling issues.
This
one-off 1966 Jaguar E-Type, custom-designed by Raymond Loewy with
coachwork by Pinchon-Parat, was publicly offered for the first time
since 1970.(Picture from: CarsBonham)
The changes continued around the back, where Chevrolet Corvair tail lights replaced the standard Jaguar units, seamlessly integrated into the rear panels. The twin exhaust pipes no longer exited below the license plate but instead flared outward at sharp angles, adding to the car’s futuristic feel. A glass spoiler—rare and bold for the time—was placed on the rear edge of the roof, giving the silhouette a final visual punch.
This
one-off 1966 Jaguar E-Type, custom-designed by Raymond Loewy with
coachwork by Pinchon-Parat, was publicly offered for the first time
since 1970.(Picture from: CarsBonham)
One of the most forward-thinking touches was a large red brake light mounted inside the cabin, clearly visible through a rear window that was 25% larger than the factory design. This brake light, activated by the pedal, anticipated modern safety standards long before they became law. It was classic Loewy—function meeting form in perfect balance.
The interior, meanwhile, stayed true to Jaguar’s original layout, letting the exterior do all the talking. And what a conversation piece it remains. Every line and angle on the car reflects Loewy's obsession with clean, purposeful design. This wasn’t just a car—it was an idea in motion.
This
one-off 1966 Jaguar E-Type, custom-designed by Raymond Loewy with
coachwork by Pinchon-Parat, was publicly offered for the first time
since 1970.(Picture from: CarsBonham)
After Loewy parted ways with the car, it changed hands within France until the 1970s, when a young architect and car designer named James Murry Hunt came across a classified ad—likely in The New York Times or The Wall Street Journal. Hunt, who had once studied under Loewy himself, purchased the car sight unseen and brought it to San Diego, California, where it quietly lived for the next 40 years. Tucked away in a garage, this one-of-a-kind Jaguar was all but forgotten by the wider automotive world.
This
one-off 1966 Jaguar E-Type, custom-designed by Raymond Loewy with
coachwork by Pinchon-Parat, was publicly offered for the first time
since 1970.(Picture from: CarsBonham)
Yet today, it resurfaces as a remarkable piece of history—untouched, unrestored, and still wearing the creative fingerprints of one of the 20th century’s greatest designers. Though it now requires servicing, particularly to the brakes, it remains in strong running condition and holds immense potential for concours events or serious collectors looking for something no one else has. | Q_Xpzq9lrWc |
The Raymond Loewy E-Type Jaguar is more than just rare. It’s a symbol of what happens when iconic design meets fearless imagination. With every curve and custom feature, it tells a story not just of automotive history, but of a man who never stopped shaping the future—even when it came to something as timeless as the Jaguar E-Type. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARS.BONHAM | SUPERCARS.NET | MYCARREQUEST | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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Artful Engineering - There’s something undeniably magical about the way the automotive world of the 1970s dared to dream. It was an era when boundaries were constantly tested, when engineers and designers alike played with courage and curiosity, blurring the line between art and machinery. Among those visionaries was Swiss car enthusiast and entrepreneur Willy H. Felber — a man whose fascination with Italian design and performance gave birth to one of the most intriguing and rare sports cars ever built: the Lancia Felber FF Spider, aka the Lancia Beta Carrera with the refined touch of the Italian master designer Giovanni Michelotti.
The Lancia FF Spider built by Felber with the refined touch of the Italian master designer Giovanni Michelotti. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc in Tumblr)
Felber’s journey into automotive creation started not as a manufacturer, but as a passionate importer. In the 1970s, his company, Haute Performance Morges, was the gateway for Swiss enthusiasts to experience brands like Ferrari, Lancia, and Panther. Surrounded by elegance and speed, it was perhaps inevitable that Felber would one day decide to craft something of his own. His first step into this world was the Felber FF, a retro-styled sports car inspired bythe Ferrari 125 S, powered by a Ferrari twelve-cylinder engine. Priced at around 90,000 Swiss francs, it captured attention for its nostalgic design and pure, unfiltered driving spirit — even being described by German racing driver Harald Ertl as “a pure men’s thing.”
The Lancia Beta Carrera by Felber unveiled at the 1976 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
But Felber wasn’t content to stop there. The FF had proven that there was a market for beautifully built, hand-crafted sports cars — but perhaps not one large enough for such an expensive creation. So, in true entrepreneurial fashion, Felber sought to design something more attainable, yet still dripping with Italian character and Swiss precision. His idea: combine the proven mechanics of the Lancia Beta with the visual DNA of one of Lancia’s greatest racing legends, the D24, which had triumphed at the 1954 Carrera Panamericana. The result was a lighter, more refined car — and when he teamed up with the legendary Michelotti, that vision transformed into the Lancia FF Spider, unveiled at the 1976 Geneva Motor Show.
The Lancia Beta Carrera by Felber posed along with the standard Lancia Beta Spider. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Michelotti’s touch changed everything. What had started as a derivative of the Beta Spider became something entirely new — elegant, balanced, and unmistakably Italian in its proportions. The body, crafted from aluminum over a tubular frame, gave the car a lightweight presence of just about 750 kilograms. Under the hood, the Fulvia-derived 1300 engine produced a modest 110 horsepower, but the combination of low weight and well-sorted handling made it nimble and responsive. In an era where excess often trumped subtlety, this car stood out for its purity of design and driving feel.
Under the hood, the Lancia Felber FF Spider houses the Fulvia-derived 1300 engine produced a modest 110 horsepower, but the combination of low weight and well-sorted handling made it nimble and responsive. (Picture from: BettelBruenneliCollection)
The Lancia FF Spider’stechnical base mirrored much of the standard Beta’s engineering — McPherson struts up front, independent wishbones at the rear, and four disc brakes for dependable stopping power. The transversely mounted engine featured twin overhead camshafts and a light alloy head, while the five-speed manual gearbox gave the driver the kind of engagement that only 1970s Italian sports cars could deliver. Felber’s genius was in ensuring that, despite its bespoke nature, the Spider remained easy to maintain — oil changes every 10,000 kilometers and readily available parts, a rare luxury for a handmade automobile.
The Lancia Felber FF Spider roof fits snugly but isn’t exactly waterproof, and the trunk barely fits more than a weekend bag. (Picture from: ItalianCarsClub)
Production plans were ambitious. Felber envisioned a modest run of two to three cars per month, assembled in Morges from body parts produced by Michelotti’s Turin workshop. Priced at around 38,000 francs, the Spider seemed to promise the perfect balance of craftsmanship and accessibility. But as with many ambitious small-scale projects, reality intervened. The dream of steady production faded, and only a handful — likely three to six examples — were ever completed. Today, only two are known to survive, each one a tangible reminder of an era when passion could outweigh practicality.
The Lancia Felber FF Spider’s technical base mirrored much of the standard Beta’s engineering — McPherson struts up front, independent wishbones at the rear, and four disc brakes for dependable stopping power. (Picture from: BettelBruenneliCollection)
Driving one of these surviving Lancia FF Spiders today is like stepping into a time capsule. Despite being handmade, the car feels remarkably well put together. There’s none of the rattling or awkward ergonomics often found in low-volume prototypes. The steering is communicative, the gearshift precise, and the lightweight body gives it an agility that even modern cars struggle to replicate. Its four-cylinder engine hums with enthusiasm, and while it may not roar like a Ferrari, it sings its own melody — that distinct Lancia rhythm that blends refinement with a hint of rebellion.
The Lancia Beta Carrera body, crafted from aluminum over a tubular frame, gave the car a lightweight presence of just about 750 kilograms. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc in Tumblr)
There are quirks, of course. The roof fits snugly but isn’t exactly waterproof, and the trunk barely fits more than a weekend bag. Yet none of that matters. This isn’t a car for daily commutes or car washes; it’s a car for bright mornings and winding roads, for gatherings where its rare silhouette draws silent admiration. Each curve of its body tells a story — of Swiss precision meeting Italian artistry, of a man who dared to make his vision real, and of a time when cars were made not by committees, but by dreamers.
The Lancia Felber FF Spider seemed to promise the perfect balance of craftsmanship and accessibility. (Picture from: BettelBruenneliCollection)
Willy H. Felber’s automotive adventure didn’t last forever. By the mid-1980s, he had turned his focus to reimagining production cars under names likePascha, Excellence, Oasis, and Rubis. His company ceased operations in 1991, and Felber himself passed away in 2002. But his spirit lives on in creations like the Lancia Beta Carrera — a delicate balance of engineering, artistry, and imagination that still captures the hearts of those lucky enough to see one. Since a video of the Lancia Felber FF Spider is unavailable, here’s a video of the Lancia Beta Spider (Beta Zagato) instead. | 3StECoeJnx0 |
In a world where most vehicles blur together in a sea of predictability, the Slash stands defiantly apart. It’s a modern reminder that car design can still be emotional, surprising, and deeply human. Built in an era dominated by automation and uniformity, the Slash rekindles something elemental—the desire to dream big, to create boldly, and to drive something that feels alive. Mike Vetter didn’t just design another car; he built a rolling expression of individuality. And in that sense, the Vetter Slash isn’t merely a machine—it’s a statement, one that continues to echo every time its V8 comes to life. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MTV CONCEPTS | VETTER VEHICLES IN FACEBOOK | AUTOEVOLUTION | MOTOR1 | CORVSPORT | OBSCURESUPERCAR IN X ]
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