Royal Obsession - In the world of exotic cars and royal indulgence, few stories are as fascinating as the quiet intersection of cutting-edge design and opulent exclusivity. Imagine a car that’s not just rare, but nearly mythical—a one-off masterpiece born from the creative genius of Pininfarina and built exclusively for one of the most extravagant car collectors in history. That car is the Royal Family of Brunei’s Mercedes Benz SL73 "Quicksilver", a bespoke automotive marvel that remains shrouded in mystery, luxury, and performance.
In 1996, His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei commissioned Pininfarina to recreate the Argento Vivo using a different platform, yet replicating the original Honda concept exactly, including the materials. (Picture from: PublicFotki)
To understand how this special roadster came into existence, we have to trace its roots back to the Argento Vivo—a stunning concept car born from a collaboration between Honda and the legendary Italian design house, Pininfarina. The Argento Vivo turned heads in the mid-1990swith its sleek curves, minimalist elegance, and futuristic presence. But while the concept was merely a design exercise for most, it became something more in the eyes of His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei. Intrigued by its style but not bound to Honda’s engineering, the Sultan envisioned a version of this car tailored to his own high standards.
Some say that Pininfarina built as many as five or six units of the Mercedes-Benz SL73 Argento Vivo for the Royal Family of Brunei.(Picture from: BenzWorld)
Instead of using the original Honda platform, he chose something more powerful and prestigious:the Mercedes-Benz R129 SL600. Already a rare and respected grand tourer in its own right, the SL600 served as the perfect base for what would become a completely reimagined machine. Pininfarina, known for shaping some of the most beautiful cars ever made, took this German chassis and transformed it into a near-exact replica of the Argento Vivo’s design. Every detail—from the fluid body lines to the advanced material choices—was preserved, blending Italian artistry with German engineering.
His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei’s Argento Vivo was built by Pininfarina on a brand-new Mercedes SL600 chassis. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
What set the Brunei version apart, beyond its exclusive styling, was what lay under the hood. The car was fitted with a monstrous 7.3-liter M120 E73 V12 engine, the same powerplant found in the ultra-rare AMG SL73. This engine wasn’t just powerful—it was a beast. Delivering between 525 and 565 horsepower and a staggering 553 lb-ft of torque, it launched this roadster from 0 to 60 mph in just about 4.0 seconds, putting it in the same league as legends like the Lamborghini Diablo and Ferrari F40. And with a top speed surpassing 174 mph, the car was more than just a pretty face.
His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei’s Argento Vivo is powered by a 7.3-liter M120 E73 V12 engine, also used in the AMG Mercedes-Benz SL73.(Picture from: BenzWorld)
Despite its raw capabilities, what makes the Quicksilver even more intriguing is how little is known about it. Like much of the Sultan’s private collection, these cars live in a veil of secrecy. Only a handful—five or six at most—are believed to have been made. Four were reportedly built exclusively for the Royal Family of Brunei.
The Argento Vivo of the Royal Family of Brunei was significantly larger than the original Honda concept, yet could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.0 seconds and reach a top speed of over 174 mph. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Today, it's said that at least two remain in their possession, while whispers suggest another one found its way to Monaco. There's even talk of a second, unfinished Honda-based conceptthat was eventually completed and now resides in the same European playground of the rich and famous.
The story of the SL73 Quicksilver isn't just about horsepower or head-turning design. It’s about the rare magic that happens when limitless resources meet unrestrained imagination. It's about a king’s vision turned into reality by one of the world’s finest design houses. And most of all, it’s about a car so rare and so exquisitely crafted that it seems to exist outside the ordinary timelines of automotive history—seen by few, remembered by fewer, and admired by all who know its name. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOTCARS | TOPSPEED | BENZWORLD | CLASSICDRIVER | MOTOR1 | CARSTYLING.RU | SUPERCARS.NET ]
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Eco Futurism- In a world where car design is increasingly driven by sustainability and futuristic flair, concept vehicles continue to spark imagination and inspire innovation. One such fascinating creation is the Aetek FYK, a bold and forward-thinking concept car from Norway that blended environmental awareness with sharp-edged automotive design. While many concept cars come and go without much fanfare, the FYK stood out—not just for its looks, but for what it represented: a vision of a cleaner, more efficient driving future.
A striking front three-quarter view of the Aetek FYK, highlighting its sharp angles, bold proportions, and raw metallic finish that reflects its futuristic design vision. (Picture from: Diseno-Art)
Developed in 2006 by Aetek, a Norwegian automaker, the FYK was a collaborative project led by experienced automotive designer Arild Tjomsland. Backed by Statoil, a leading lubricants and fuel company in Norway, the FYK aimed to be more than a stylish prototype—it was designed as a serious exploration of eco-conscious driving. What set it apart was its use of NaturalHy (HCNG), a unique mix of compressed natural gas (CNG) and hydrogen. This fuel blend—comprising about 8–20% hydrogen and the rest natural gas—offered a cleaner-burning alternative to traditional fuels, pushing the envelope toward hydrogen-powered mobility long before it became a buzzword.
A sleek side profile of the Aetek FYK captured in a mountainous backdrop, showcasing its bold curves and striking red wheels that add a dynamic, aggressive touch. (Picture from: Diseno-Art)
But the innovation didn’t stop under the hood. The car’s physical makeup was just as green-minded. Almost the entire FYK structure was built from recycled aluminum, including the chassis, body panels, wheels, and even interior elements. This not only made the car incredibly lightweight but also emphasized Aetek’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing. From front to back, every inch of theFYKreflected an effort to reduce environmental impact while still delivering a performance-oriented feel.
The Aetek FYK eco-friendly supercar concept features sharp geometric lines, a low-slung stance, and dramatic scissor doors that open vertically to reveal a sleek cockpit, evoking the feel of a science fiction machine while favoring style over practicality. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtec)
Design-wise, the FYK didn’t play it safe. With sharp, geometric lines and a low-slung stance, it looked like something out of a science fiction movie. The scissor doors added drama, opening vertically to reveal a sleek cockpit, though they may have prioritized style over ease of entry. The sculpted sides and angular contours showcased an aggressive yet aerodynamic form, clearly influenced by racing design and high-performance aesthetics. The unique blend of bare-metal surfaces and matte textures made it visually striking, while the bold red alloy wheels added a splash of personality.
The Aetek FYK displayed with its scissor doors fully raised in an industrial setting, offering a glimpse of its experimental design and concept-level ingenuity. (Picture from: Diseno-Art)
Although the FYK's interior wasn't its strongest point—it had a somewhat cramped and experimental layout—it was clear that the car was a rolling laboratory, not a finished showroom product. The focus was clearly on showcasing new materials and fueling technologies rather than day-to-day practicality.
The FYK debuted alongside the opening of Norway's first filling station capable of supplying NaturalHy, hydrogen, and natural gas in Forus, Stavanger, making the moment more than just a product launch—it was a statement about the future of fueling infrastructure. However, after that promising start, the FYK seemed to vanish from the spotlight, with little follow-up or continued development.
Even though it never made it to mass production, the Aetek FYK remains a fascinating symbol of early attempts to rethink what a car could be. Its daring design, commitment to alternative energy, and experimental spirit are still relevant today, especially as the automotive industry continues its shift toward sustainability and cutting-edge design. Sometimes, the most unforgettable vehicles are the ones that dared to be different—and the FYK certainly did just that. *** [EKA [08122013] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DISENO-ART | GTPLANET | ALLCARINDEX | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC ]
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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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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)
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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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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To understand how this special roadster came into existence, we have to trace its roots back to the Argento Vivo—a stunning concept car born from a collaboration between Honda and the legendary Italian design house, Pininfarina. The Argento Vivo turned heads in the mid-1990s with its sleek curves, minimalist elegance, and futuristic presence. But while the concept was merely a design exercise for most, it became something more in the eyes of His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei. Intrigued by its style but not bound to Honda’s engineering, the Sultan envisioned a version of this car tailored to his own high standards. 
To understand how this special roadster came into existence, we have to trace its roots back to the Argento Vivo—a stunning concept car born from a collaboration between Honda and the legendary Italian design house, Pininfarina. The Argento Vivo turned heads in the mid-1990s with its sleek curves, minimalist elegance, and futuristic presence. But while the concept was merely a design exercise for most, it became something more in the eyes of His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei. Intrigued by its style but not bound to Honda’s engineering, the Sultan envisioned a version of this car tailored to his own high standards. 
The story of the SL73 Quicksilver isn't just about horsepower or head-turning design. It’s about the rare magic that happens when limitless resources meet unrestrained imagination. It's about a king’s vision turned into reality by one of the world’s finest design houses. And most of all, it’s about a car so rare and so exquisitely crafted that it seems to exist outside the ordinary timelines of automotive history—seen by few, remembered by fewer, and admired by all who know its name. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOTCARS | TOPSPEED | BENZWORLD | CLASSICDRIVER | MOTOR1 | CARSTYLING.RU | SUPERCARS.NET ]
