Forgotten Innovation - When you think of sports cars, countries like Italy, Germany, and the United States are often the first to come to mind. However, you might be surprised to learn that Argentina, a nation known for its passionate sports culture, legendary racing heroes, and automotive enthusiasts, also made its own unique mark in the world of automotive design, contributing to the global landscape of high-performance vehicles.
The first I.A.V.A. Mara prototype was presented in August 1971, when Fisanotti and his colleague Miguel Angel Galuzzi introduced the idea of a car that would combine Italian design influence with Argentine ingenuity. (Picture from: Mitutu)
Alongside iconic figures such as legendary racer Juan Manuel Fangio, and automotive pioneers like Alejandro De Tomaso and Horacio Pagani, Argentina has its own lesser-known stories of innovation in the automotive industry. One such story takes us back to the 1970s, when the "Industria Argentina de Vehículos de Avanzada," (I.A.V.A.) or Argentine Advanced Vehicles Industry created the unique Mara sports car, marking a fascinating chapter in the country's automotive history.
The Mara sports car was the I.A.V.A. first project, was a
bold and ambitious attempt to create a sports car that could stand
alongside some of the most recognized names in automotive history. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
In the early 1970s, a pivotal development occurred in the small town of Martínez, located within the Province of Buenos Aires. Here, the Industria Argentina de Vehículos de Avanzada (I.A.V.A.) was born, thanks to the initiative of the Fiat dealer group in Argentina. This company was founded by engineer Juan Carlos Fisanotti, who took on the role of technical manager. The Mara, I.A.V.A.’s first major project, was a bold and ambitious attempt to create a sports car that could stand alongside some of the most recognized names in automotive history.
The I.A.V.A. Mara, the company’s first sports car prototype featuring an enlarged 1200cc engine based on the Fiat 128’s 1100cc, underwent initial road tests as a bold step in automotive innovation.(Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The concept was presented in August 1971, when Fisanotti and his colleague Miguel Angel Galuzzi introduced the idea of a car that would combine Italian design influence with Argentine ingenuity. The Mara's design was nothing short of striking. Despite being a product of a small Argentine company, the Mara clearly displayed the ambition to compete on the international stage. The car’s exterior bodywork was crafted from fiberglass, a material that allowed for flexibility and reduced weight, crucial elements for a sports car aimed at achieving impressive performance.
The I.A.V.A. Mara’s fiberglass bodywork, influenced by iconic design houses like Bertone and Italdesign, combined flexibility, reduced weight, and a sleek, futuristic appearance essential for high performance. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The body shape itself was influenced by iconic automotive design houses like Bertone and Italdesign, giving the Mara a sleek and futuristic appearance. Anyone familiar with the Maserati Boomerang concept car would immediately notice the similar design elements present in the Mara, especially in its bold angles and aerodynamic form. One of the most innovative aspects of the Mara was its engine configuration. I.A.V.A. chose to base the car's mechanicals on the Fiat 128, a well-known Italian model, but made significant modifications.
The rear view of the I.A.V.A. Mara prototype, showcasing the distinctive Kamm-tail aerodynamic design, enhances its overall performance and sleek appearance. (Picture from: Fiat128DelSur)
The original 1100cc engine of the Fiat 128 was enlarged to 1200cc, giving the Mara an edge in power and performance. This change aimed to push the prototype’s performance to a top speed of 130 mph, a notable figure for a car built in Argentina during the 1970s. To further enhance its sporty characteristics, the engine and transmission were placed in a mid-rear position, which improved the car’s handling and balance, a key feature for sports cars of the era.
After a series of exhibitions in Europe, the I.A.V.A. Mara was redesigned with a more modern look, including the addition of retractable headlights. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Although the Mara was still a prototype, its potential was clear. The I.A.V.A. team intended to take the car to European exhibitions, hoping to gauge public reaction and generate interest in both local and export markets. The goal was not only to introduce a new sports car to Argentina but also to make a mark on the global automotive scene. However, despite the bold ambitions, the Mara never saw mass production.
The front view of the I.A.V.A. Mara, enhanced with a sleeker design and modern features, following an extensive redesign process.(Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Only one unit of the car was built, and after several public appearances in redesigned versions, the company ultimately shifted its focus to other projects, including a line of tuning accessories for Fiat models that became very successful in Argentina. The story of the Mara, though short-lived, is a testament to the innovative spirit of Argentina’s automotive engineers in the 1970s. While the car was never mass-produced, it represents a fascinating moment in the country’s attempt to carve out a niche in the sports car world.
The rear view of the I.A.V.A. Mara, following a redesign process, features a shape that subtly resembles the iconic Lancia Stratos HF. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The I.A.V.A. may have moved on to different ventures, but the Mara remains a symbol of what could have been—an Argentine sports car that never reached its full potential but nonetheless left a unique legacy. In the end, the Mara serves as a reminder that innovation often comes from the most unexpected places. While Argentina’s automotive history may not be as widely celebrated as some of the world’s biggest car-producing nations, the country’s contributions—like the Mara—demonstrate that the passion for sports cars is truly global.
After facing challenging times, the I.A.V.A. Mara underwent a restoration process aimed at reviving its former performance, though the results remain unknown to this day. (Picture from: Fiat128DelSur)
The legacy of engineers like Juan Carlos Fisanotti and Miguel Angel Galuzzi may not have resulted in the international fame they had hoped for, but their work in creating the Mara is still remembered as a daring and imaginative step in Argentina’s automotive evolution. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FIAT128DELSUR | MITUTU | IAVA.SANJUAN | RARECOMPONENTCARS | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC ]
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Bold Innovation- The automotive world has always been a playground for bold ideas, where manufacturers constantly push the limits of engineering and aesthetics. Some designs become timeless icons, while others remain fascinating experiments, representing a time when innovation often took precedence over practicality. One such unique creation was Mercury’s Breezeway, a vehicle that challenged conventional styling with its distinctive reverse-rake roofline and retractable rear window.
The
1955 Mercury Beldone D-528, originally a concept car, was Mercury’s
first known use of a functioning rear glass, which can be seen partially
open in this shot, and remarkably, the vehicle still exists today. (Picture from: MacsMotorCityGarage)
Though it never became a mainstream success, the Breezeway remains a remarkable example of an era when carmakers were unafraid to take creative risks. The inspiration behind the Breezeway concept was rooted in architecture, where "breezeways" were designed to improve airflow between structures. Mercury adopted this principle in the late 1950s, seeking a way to enhance natural ventilation in automobiles before air conditioning became standard.
The 1953 Packard Balboa-X concept car, designed by Dick Teague, was the first vehicle to adopt the Breezeway system with a reverse-rake roof. (Picture from: MacsMotorCityGarage)
Unlike most American cars of the time, which prioritized sleek, streamlined profiles, the Breezeway took a different route with its sharply angled rear roofline. This unconventional approach not only made the car stand out visually but also introduced a practical advantage—allowing fresh air to circulate through the cabin with the help of a power-operated rear window.
The 1957 Mercury Turnpike Cruiser was the first production model to feature Breezeway Ventilation, but due to slow sales, both the car and its distinctive rear window design were soon discontinued. (Picture from: MacsMotorCityGarage)
The origins of the Breezeway design can be traced back to the early 1950s, when automotive designer Dick Teague first experimented with a reverse-rake roof for the 1953 Packard Balboa-X concept car. While the Balboa-X remained a one-off prototype, the idea piqued the interest of Ford, which later brought the concept to Mercury in the form of the 1957 Turnpike Cruiser. This model featured a similar roofline with a retractable rear window, but its polarizing design failed to capture widespread consumer interest.
The 1963 Mercury Monterey was designed with an elegantly crafted Breezeway rear window, adding a distinctive touch of both style and functionality to its overall aesthetic. (Picture from: OldMotors on Facebook)
Mercury refined the concept further in 1958 with the Lincoln lineup, overseen by John Najjar’s design team. These cars integrated the Breezeway roof more seamlessly, combining its distinct visual appeal with improved functionality. However, economic challenges and shifting consumer preferences meant that the design struggled to gain traction in the market. By the early 1960s, the idea was temporarily shelved as buyers gravitated toward more conventional styling.
The 1963 Mercury Monterey featured a stylish Breezeway rear window, seamlessly blending elegance with practicality. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
While the Breezeway concept never took off in the U.S., it found success overseas. European manufacturers, including Ford’s U.K. division and Citroën, embraced the reverse-rake roofline for compact vehicles. The Ford Anglia 105e, introduced in 1959, utilized this design to maximize rear passenger space, while Citroën’s 1961 Ami incorporated a similar approach with a roll-down rear window. These models proved popular, but as hatchbacks gained favor in later years, the need for a slanted rear roofline diminished.
The 1963 Mercury Monterey S-55, featuring the distinctive "Breezeway" rear window, combined bold styling with innovative functionality. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
In 1963, Mercury made one last attempt to reintroduce the Breezeway, hoping to carve out a niche in a competitive market. Led by designer Buzz Grissinger, the restyled Mercury models featured the signature Breezeway roof on both two-door and four-door variants. Although the design generated initial interest, sales figures told a different story. Buyers ultimately preferred the sleeker, fastback-style rooflines offered by competitors, and production numbers dwindled. The two-door Breezeway models, in particular, saw limited production, with only 15,333 units built in 1963 and an even smaller 8,047 in 1964. Realizing the shifting landscape of automotive trends, Mercury phased out the two-door Breezeway after 1964 and discontinued the design entirely by 1966.
The 1958 Continental Mark III convertible with its retractable rear window open, showcasing a unique blend of luxury and innovation. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
As car designs evolved toward aerodynamics and integrated ventilation systems, the Breezeway became a relic of a bygone era. Modern advancements in climate control and streamlined body shapes rendered its retractable rear window unnecessary. However, Mercury’s bold attempt to marry function with style remains a cherished piece of automotive history. Today, surviving Breezeway models are highly sought after by collectors, serving as a tribute to a time when innovation often defied convention. While its time on the road was brief, the Mercury Breezeway left a lasting impression—one that continues to captivate enthusiasts and remind us of an era when carmakers weren’t afraid to take chances. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | SUPERCARS.NET | OLDMOTORS ON FACEBOOK | MACSMOTORCITYGARAGE ]
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Design Rebellion - There’s something undeniably romantic about the idea of a car that blends the elegance of a grand tourer with the practicality of a wagon. It’s a rare breed—especially when that car wears a Ferrari badge. While shooting brakes have never been mainstream, they carry a kind of mystique that makes them unforgettable to those lucky enough to spot one. Among these rarities, few are as intriguing or as singular in their story as the Ferrari 330 GT Shooting Brake by Vignale.
The one-off 1965 Ferrari 330 GT 'Shooting Brake' was a bold reimagination by Carrozzeria Vignale, transforming the classic Ferrari silhouette into a dramatic, futuristic estate car, and appeared in bronze metallic paint when it was auctioned in 2018. (Picture from: RMSothebys)
This car didn’t just appear by chance. It began life as a 1965 Ferrari 330 GT Series II, designed by Tom Tjaarda at Pininfarina. Originally finished in Rosso red over a beige interior and fitted with U.S.-spec miles-per-hour instrumentation, it was delivered to Luigi Chinetti Motors in Connecticut—home to one of Ferrari’s most important North American ambassadors. But what started as a classic example of Ferrari’s road-going elegance soon veered into the unexpected.
The one-off 1965 Ferrari 330 GT 'Shooting Brake' by Carrozzeria Vignale was seen finished in metallic green with a gold roof, as listed back in 2008. (Picture from: Cars.Bonham)
By 1967, the car had returned to Chinetti Motors. That’s when Luigi Chinetti Jr., the son of Ferrari’s U.S. importer and a passionate creative in his own right, envisioned something radically different. Together with American illustrator Bob Peak—famous for his iconic movie posters—Chinetti Jr. imagined a Ferrari like no other: a sleek, sculptural shooting brake that retained only the windshield and partial door structure from the original car.
The one-off 1965 Ferrari 330 GT 'Shooting Brake' by Carrozzeria Vignale was a one-off creation commissioned by Luigi Chinetti Jr. and developed with American illustrator Bob Peak, who imagined a sleek, sculptural Ferrari that retained only the windshield and partial door structure from the original car. (Picture from: JoeMacari)
The coachwork itself was entrusted to Carrozzeria Alfredo Vignale in Turin, a company renowned for its flair and craftsmanship. This wasn’t just another restyle. It was a bold reimagination—transforming the classic Ferrari silhouette into a dramatic, futuristic estate car. It was painted in metallic green with a gold roof (as listed back in 2008), the new design included seating for four and a large rear cargo area, effectively marrying Ferrari performance with luxurious practicality. When it debuted at the 1968 Turin Motor Show, it turned heads—not just for its shape, but for its daring departure from Ferrari norms.
The
one-off 1965 Ferrari 330 GT 'Shooting Brake' by Carrozzeria Vignale featuring a new design included seating for four and a large rear cargo area, effectively marrying Ferrari performance with luxurious practicality. (Picture from: JoeMacari)
What made this car even more remarkable was its exclusivity. It was the final Ferrari to ever wear Vignale’s badge before the coachbuilder’s operations came to a close. That gave it a kind of poetic closure—an artistic curtain call for a name that had long been associated with some of the most beautiful Italian automotive design.
The one-off 1965 Ferrari 330 GT 'Shooting Brake' by Carrozzeria Vignale features four individual bucket seats trimmed in tan leather, with a three-spoke wood-rimmed steering wheel, a wood dash, Veglia gauges, and a Blaupunkt radio that reflect the luxury of a bygone era. (Picture from: JoeMacari)
After its time in the spotlight, the 330 GT Shooting Brake remained in private hands for decades. It passed through a handful of dedicated owners, including Jean-Claude Paturau of Paris, who restored the car and proudly displayed it at some of Europe’s most prestigious concours events. Later, it found its way into the garage of Jay Kay—lead singer of Jamiroquai and a well-known Ferrari enthusiast—who continued to showcase the car at festivals and classic car gatherings across the UK.
The
one-off 1965 Ferrari 330 GT 'Shooting Brake' by Carrozzeria Vignale powered by a single-cam V-12 displacing 3,967cc, power reached the rigid rear axle via a five-speed manual transmission. (Picture from: JoeMacari)
Today, the one-off Ferrari continues to impress, now finished in a bronze metallic paint that highlights its sculpted lines (as listed back in 2018). Under the hood, it retains a 4.0-liter V12 with triple Weber carburetors, delivering 300 horsepower through a five-speed manual gearbox. Inside, four individual bucket seats are trimmed in tan leather, while the wood dash, Veglia gauges, and Blaupunkt radio echo the luxury of a bygone era. Even the smallest details—from the knock-off wheels to the wood-rimmed steering wheel—reflect the craftsmanship that defines a car of this caliber. | 3QpgiXmMOfk |
This is not just a car. It’s a living piece of Ferrari history. A unique blend of American imagination, Italian artistry, and fearless experimentation. It may not have been what purists expected, but that’s precisely what makes it unforgettable. When creativity meets courage, legends are born—and in the case of the Ferrari 330 GT Shooting Brake by Vignale, that legend is parked on four wheels. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARS.BONHAM | RMSOTHEBYS | JOEMACARI | MYCARQUEST ]
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Carbon Majesty - The fusion of classic design and modern performance has always been a fascination for car enthusiasts worldwide. It's not just about blending two aesthetics; it also brings together innovations that improve a car's speed and efficiency, thanks to cutting-edge aerodynamic elements. When it comes to iconic American cars, the 1960s stand out as a defining era. One of the most luxurious and well-known brands of the time was Cadillac, a company that experienced significant growth and success, especially in 1968. Their reputation for producing vehicles that combined elegance and power made them the brand of choice for wealthy buyers.
The 1968 Eldorado Le Mans, styled by Andreas Wennevold, is a bold tribute to classic Cadillac craftsmanship—blending vintage elegance with futuristic engineering in a way only a true car enthusiast could imagine. (Picture from: Autoevolution)
Heritage Crafted - The allure of high-performance cars has always captivated enthusiasts, with each manufacturer bringing unique innovations and stories to the automotive world. Among them is Arash Motor Company Limited, a British automaker known for its supercars and hypercars. While Arash might not be as globally renowned as some automotive giants, its journey is a fascinating tale of ambition, reinvention, and engineering excellence.
The 2003 Farboud GTS Concept, a prototype mid-engine sports car, featured a twin-turbo V6 engine delivering an impressive 620 bhp. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
Founded in 1999 by Arash Farboud under the name Farboud Limited, the company emerged from Newmarket, Suffolk, a quaint English town. With a clear vision to craft cutting-edge vehicles, the company quickly attracted attention in the performance car market. In 2006, the company adopted its current name, reflecting its growth and ambitions. Over time, Arash Motor Company expanded its reach, establishing a manufacturing facility in Bolton, Ontario, Canada, marking its presence in North America.
Only three units of the Farboud GTS Concept were produced before the design was sold to Farbio Sports Cars, which launched production in 2007. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
In 2010, Arash unveiled its first supercar, the AF10, an ambitious project showcasing the company’s engineering prowess. This was followed in 2014 by the AF8, which further cemented its reputation for producing sleek and powerful machines. However, the story of Arash doesn’t begin with these celebrated models; it traces back to an earlier creation that laid the foundation for what would become an extraordinary legacy.
Here’s the Farbio GTS, the production-ready model showcased at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2005. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Back in 2002, when the company was still known as Farboud Limited, the visionary Arash Farboud conceptualized a car that would later become iconic—the Farbio GTS. This model was initially powered by a twin-turbocharged Audi V6 engine and symbolized the company’s commitment to innovation. However, in an unexpected turn, Farboud sold the rights to this car to the newly established Farbio Sports Cars. Farbio took the design and officially launched it as the Farbio GTS in 2007, with sales starting in early 2008.
The Farbio GTS 350 was one of the key variants offered by Farbio Sports Cars, positioned between the entry-level GTS 260 and the more powerful GTS 400. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Farbio GTS offered a variety of configurations to suit different performance needs. Buyers could choose between three variants: the GTS 260, 350, and 400. The latter two were equipped with a supercharged 3.0-litre Ford V6 engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission, offering an exhilarating driving experience. The car's design and engineering hinted at the ingenuity that would define Arash Motor Company in the years to come.
This is the Ginetta F400, the successor created after Ginetta acquired the design and production rights of the Farbio GTS in 2010. (Picture from: TopSpeed)
In 2010, the narrative took another twist when Ginetta Cars, a respected name in motorsport and road cars, acquired the rights to the Farbio GTS. Ginetta rebranded and refined the model, releasing it in limited numbers as the F400. While the design remained true to its roots, production ceased the same year. However, Ginetta wasn’t done yet. Recognizing the potential of the car, the company embarked on significant redevelopment to create a successor. By the end of 2011, the car was reborn as the Ginetta G60, showcasing advancements that elevated its performance and appeal.
The Ginetta G60 is a mid-engined sports car produced by British car manufacturer Ginetta Cars, based on the Ginetta F400, which itself was based on the Farbio GTS. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Ginetta G60 featured a tubular steel chassis paired with a carbon-fiber monocoque tub, ensuring a lightweight yet robust structure. A mid-mounted 3.7-litre Ford V6 engine producing 310 horsepower powered the car, and a six-speed manual transmission retained the driver-focused nature of its predecessors. Despite its impressive specifications, production was capped at about 50 units per year between 2012 and 2015. Ultimately, poor sales and rising costs led to the G60's discontinuation in November 2015.
The Ginetta G60 featured a tubular steel chassis combined with a carbon-fiber monocoque tub, providing a lightweight yet sturdy structure. (Picture from: Automobile-Catalog)
The journey of the Farbio GTS, F400, and G60 highlights the interconnected histories of ambitious manufacturers like Farboud, Farbio, and Ginetta. It also underscores the challenges faced by small-scale automakers in a fiercely competitive industry. For Arash Motor Company, this story is a testament to its resilience and dedication to pushing boundaries in automotive design.
As Arash continues to innovate and produce high-performance vehicles, its legacy serves as a reminder that every great company has humble beginnings filled with trials and triumphs. For enthusiasts and historians alike, the tale of Arash is not just about cars but about the relentless pursuit of dreams that drive the automotive world forward. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTS CARS | CARMAGAZINE | PISTONHEADS | WIKIPEDIA | TOPSPEED | TESTDRIVE.FANDOM | AUTOMOBILE-CATALOG | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC ]
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Horsepower Havoc - Some things in life just demand attention—like thunder before a storm or the sound of a V-8 engine echoing off canyon walls. For gearheads and adrenaline junkies, few names command respect quite like the Chevrolet Corvette. And just when you thought Chevy had already turned every possible dial to eleven, they’ve gone and created something completely unhinged: the Corvette ZR1X. This isn't just another sports car; it's the boldest, wildest, most powerful Corvette the world has ever seen.
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X is the boldest, wildest, most powerful Corvette the world has ever seen. (Picture from: Drive)
At first glance, the ZR1X might look like it follows the Corvette family lineage, but under the surface, it’s a full-blown revolution. It’s not just about speed, though it has more than plenty. It’s about taking a heritage built on decades of front-engine, rear-wheel-drive tradition and flipping it inside out, then cranking it up with twin turbos and electrification. A mad blend of legacy and innovation, the ZR1X has 1,250 horsepower at its disposal—yes, you read that right.
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X shatters tradition by transforming decades of front-engine, rear-wheel-drive legacy into an all-out, twin-turbocharged, electrified powerhouse built for more than just speed. (Picture from: Corvetteuseum in X)
That monstrous figure comes from a fusion of two already fierce performers: the ZR1’s twin-turbocharged LT7 V-8 engine and a dialed-up version of the E-Ray’s hybrid electric motor. The V-8 alone churns out a staggering 1,064 horsepower, sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. But things get even wilder at the front, where an upgraded electric motor contributes an additional 186 horsepower, creating a ferocious all-wheel-drive system. With a 0–60 mph time of under 2 seconds, it’s not just fast—it’s borderline surreal.
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X extends its performance beyond the powertrain with an aggressively designed exterior—featuring a new front fascia and carbon fiber roof—engineered to enhance both aerodynamics and cooling. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
But sheer numbers don’t tell the full story. The ZR1X doesn’t just launch hard in a straight line. Chevy’s engineers went all-in on control and precision, redesigning the eAWD system from the ground up. That means this Corvette isn’t just capable of brutal acceleration—it’s also got the finesse to carve corners with 1.0 g of simultaneous acceleration and cornering force. With all four tires gripping and a chassis tuned for maximum attack, it handles as furiously as it sprints.
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X, with its ZR1X badge embedded in the side intake, hints at the twin-turbocharged, hybrid-assisted beast within—unleashing 1,250 horsepower beneath a striking orange body built for the track. (Picture from: Corvetteuseum in X)
Chevrolet didn’t forget the importance of stopping power either. Recognizing that the car’s outrageous speed demands equally serious brakes, they fitted the ZR1X with a completely new system—massive 16.5-inch carbon-ceramic rotors and Alcon calipers capable of delivering 1.9 g of deceleration. This isn't just safety—it’s engineering aimed at keeping drivers alive while dancing on the edge of what’s physically possible.
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X, while extreme in performance, features a cabin rooted in modern Corvette design with three digital screens, improved HVAC layout, and a futuristic yet driver-friendly interface. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
And then there’s the push-to-pass button. Like something from a video game, this little switch unleashes the full 1,250 horsepower for an extra hit of insanity. As long as you're in the right drive mode and brave enough to floor the throttle, the ZR1X will respond like a caged beast finally set free.
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X unleashes 1,250 horsepower from a wild fusion of the ZR1’s 1,064-hp twin-turbo LT7 V-8 and an enhanced E-Ray hybrid motor, with power channeled to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
Despite all this aggression, the ZR1X doesn't lose sight of its daily-driving DNA. It still offers two configurations: the base version with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and a more comfortable ride, and the optional ZTK Performance Package for track-day warriors. The latter throws in Michelin Cup 2R rubber, a more aggressive suspension setup, and aerodynamic add-ons that make it look like it belongs in a wind tunnel—or a racetrack pit lane.
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X declares war on air resistance with a massive carbon fiber rear wing that’s more than dramatic flair—it's a precision-engineered tool for delivering serious downforce at triple-digit speeds. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
Inside, it’s familiar territory. While the rest of the ZR1X is pushing limits, the cabin remains rooted in the Corvette’s newest generation of tech and design. There are now three screens, including a massive digital gauge cluster and a dedicated interface for performance settings. Even the HVAC controls have been relocated for better flow. It’s a cockpit that feels futuristic without being overwhelming.
The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X, despite its extreme performance, stays true to its daily-driving roots with a standard setup featuring Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires for comfort, and an optional ZTK Performance Package that adds Cup 2R tires, track-tuned suspension, and race-ready aerodynamic enhancements. (Picture from: Corvetteuseum in X)
Though pricing hasn’t been announced yet, expectations place the ZR1X somewhere north of the $250,000 mark. For some, that might seem like heresy for a Corvette. But considering the performance, pedigree, and the kind of numbers it puts down, it’s hard to argue that Chevy hasn't delivered something worthy of the price tag. Hypercar performance, mid-engine layout, hybrid tech, and enough power to tear through time zones—it’s not just a Corvette anymore, it’s a whole new breed. | IkcZHJQWGbk |
The 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X doesn’t ask for permission to change the game—it just does. It’s the kind of car that makes engineers grin, drivers sweat, and competitors scramble. And as it blurs the lines between sports car and supercar, one thing is certain: the ZR1X isn’t just pushing boundaries—it’s erasing them. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CHEVROLET | CARANDDRIVER | DRIVE | MOTORTREND | CORVETTEMUSEUM IN X ]
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Alongside iconic figures such as legendary racer Juan Manuel Fangio, and automotive pioneers like Alejandro De Tomaso and Horacio Pagani, Argentina has its own lesser-known stories of innovation in the automotive industry. One such story takes us back to the 1970s, when the "Industria Argentina de Vehículos de Avanzada," (I.A.V.A.) or Argentine Advanced Vehicles Industry created the unique Mara sports car, marking a fascinating chapter in the country's automotive history. 
The legacy of engineers like Juan Carlos Fisanotti and Miguel Angel Galuzzi may not have resulted in the international fame they had hoped for, but their work in creating the Mara is still remembered as a daring and imaginative step in Argentina’s automotive evolution. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FIAT128DELSUR | MITUTU | IAVA.SANJUAN | RARECOMPONENTCARS | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC ]
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