Styled Bravery - What if the spirit of a legendary race car could be reimagined by the fresh minds of tomorrow's engineers? That question just found its thrilling answer in the form of the Heritage ESX—an audacious, full-scale revival of the iconic Shelby Daytona Coupe. Born not from a design house or car manufacturer, but from the creative energy of students at the Espera Sbarro UTBM design school, this isn't just a tribute. It's a bold, functioning prototype that blends yesterday’s raw passion with today’s sharp-edge innovation.
The Heritage ESX is an audacious, full-scale revival of the iconic Shelby Daytona Coupe, brought to life not by a design house or automaker, but by the creative energy of Espera Sbarro UTBM students, resulting in a bold, functioning prototype that fuses vintage racing spirit with modern innovation. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvet.fr)
The Heritage ESX isn’t your typical homage. It isn’t a replica trying to mimic the past, nor a restomod clinging to nostalgia. It’s something altogether different—a unique creation crafted from scratch by 25 aspiring automotive designers and engineers over just five months. While the car’s silhouette unmistakably channels the DNA of the 1965 Daytona Coupe, its execution pushes the design into the modern age. The proportions stay true to the long-hood, short-deck formula, but sharp details and smart updates bring it to life in a whole new way.
The Heritage ESX showcases its modern flair up front with Ford GT-inspired LED headlights sourced from the Ford Puma, paired with round LEDs between the intakes and a vented hood—all combining clever design and function to hint at the power within. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Right up front, LED headlights perched on the fenders inject a slice of Ford GT flair, subtly nodding to another racing great. These lights were cleverly repurposed from the Ford Puma, a compact European SUV—proof that ingenuity often lies in the unexpected. Beneath them, round LEDs tucked between the intakes keep the look clean but aggressive. The hood, meanwhile, is sculpted with functional vents that hint at the beastly heart beneath.
From the side, the low-slung posture and pronounced rear haunches feel instantly familiar. Side-mounted exhaust pipes and gill-style vents offer more than just retro flavor—they scream racing heritage. The ESX stands tall—figuratively—on white-finished 19-inch alloy wheels, their large tires giving the car a grounded, muscular stance that looks ready for the track.
The Heritage ESX balances retro inspiration with modern design inside the cabin, featuring a driver-focused layout enhanced by purposeful carbon fiber accents. (Picture from: Carscoops)
Around back, the reinterpretation continues. The rear design is edgier, more angular, but still respectful of the original’s flow. A large integrated ducktail spoiler adds drama and downforce, while four taillights and sculpted side vents complete the look. The paint—deep blue with bold white racing stripes and the number 60—adds that essential final touch, tying the whole aesthetic together.
The Heritage ESX features a carefully sculpted body over a multi-tubular chassis, powered by a Ford-sourced 5.0-liter V8 engine paired with a six-speed manual and rear-wheel drive, promising an exhilarating drive thanks to its lightweight 1,150 kg frame. (Picture from: Sbarro.Phcalvet.fr)
Inside, the car’s cabin walks a fine line between retro inspiration and forward-thinking design. It’s unmistakably driver-focused, with carbon fiber elements that lend a sense of purpose. The central digital display adds modern usability, but analog stopwatches on the passenger side bring back that motorsport romance. A classic three-spoke steering wheel and a gear knob placed high on the console serve as reminders that this car was built to be driven, not just admired.
The Heritage ESX continues its bold reinterpretation at the rear with a sharper, more angular design that honors the original’s lines, featuring an integrated ducktail spoiler for added flair and downforce, complemented by quad taillights and sculpted side vents. (Picture from: Carscoops)
And driven it will be. Under the carefully sculpted body lies a multi-tubular chassis, carrying a Ford-sourced 5.0-liter V8 engine paired to a six-speed manual gearbox. Power is sent to the rear wheels, and while performance figures haven’t been shared, the car’s relatively light 1,150 kg (2,535-pound) frame suggests a seriously fun driving experience. Every line and detail speaks to the fact that this isn’t a static sculpture—it’s a machine meant to move. As with many Sbarro creations, the Heritage ESX is expected to remain a one-off, a rolling proof of concept rather than a commercial product. | o13dYwYwVUo |
Still, the buzz it's generated online has sparked interest in what a limited production run might look like. For now, the ESX will have its moment in the spotlight at the prestigious Le Mans Classic from July 3–6, 2025, showcasing not just a car, but the talent and vision of the next generation of automotive designers. The Heritage ESX is more than a nod to history—it’s a reminder that when passion meets skill, even legends can be reborn in the most unexpected ways. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SBARRO.PHCALVET.FR | CARSCOOPS | OBSCURESUPERCAR IN X ]
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Supreme Craftsmanship - Few names in the world of luxury sports cars command as much prestige and performance as Aston Martin. With a legacy built on elegance, speed, and craftsmanship, this British marque has consistently set the standard for automotive excellence. Though this particular Aston Martin supercar debuted over a decade ago, it remains a topic of fascination. Some cars are simply too extraordinary to be forgotten.
The Aston Martin One-77was an automotive masterpiece that blended cutting-edge engineering with the brand’s timeless sophistication. (Picture from: TopGear)
Over the years, Aston Martin has produced some of the most breathtaking machines ever to grace the road, but one model stands above the rest—a car that redefined exclusivity, power, and artistry in a single, masterfully crafted package. The Aston Martin One-77 was not just another high-performance vehicle; it was an automotive masterpiece that blended cutting-edge engineering with the brand’s timeless sophistication.
The Aston Martin One-77 featuring a sleek, sculpted body that radiated both aggression and elegance. (Picture from: AstonMartin)
When Aston Martin first teased the One-77 at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, anticipation reached an all-time high. Shrouded in mystery beneath a custom-tailored cover, it left enthusiasts eager for more. The following year, at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, the wait was over. The cover was lifted, revealing a sleek, sculpted body that radiated both aggression and elegance.
The Aston Martin One-77 combined raw power with an advanced carbon fiber monocoque structure and active aerodynamics, maximizing strength, efficiency, and driving performance. (Picture from: OtoDetik)
With only 77 units set for production, the One-77 instantly became one of the rarest and most exclusive supercars in the world. However, a handful of additional development cars were created for engineering and testing purposes. Among them, one unit—VIN #10711—was later restored and registered under the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Exhibition or Display category in the United States, technically increasing the count to 78.
The Aston Martin One-77's cabin exuded luxury, with hand-stitched leather, carbon fiber accents, and cutting-edge technology seamlessly integrated into a driver-focused cockpit. (Picture from: AstonMartin)
Beyond its striking appearance, the One-77 was built for speed, and it did not disappoint. In controlled speed trials, it tore through expectations, reaching an astonishing top speed of 220 mph (354 km/h). This achievement surpassed the Jaguar XJ220’s record of 349 km/h, solidifying Aston Martin’s place among the world’s fastest car manufacturers. While the legendary McLaren F1 still held the edge at 241 mph (387 km/h), the One-77 proved that raw power and British luxury could coexist without compromise.
The Aston Martin One-77's cabin exuded luxury, with hand-stitched leather, carbon fiber accents, and cutting-edge technology seamlessly integrated into a driver-focused cockpit. (Picture from: AstonMartin)
To achieve such remarkable performance, Aston Martin’s engineers crafted the One-77 with meticulous precision. Beneath the sculpted hood rested a monstrous 7.3-liter V12 engine, delivering an earth-shaking 750 horsepower. This powerhouse was paired with a carbon fiber monocoque chassis, keeping weight to a minimum while maximizing structural integrity. Advanced aerodynamics further enhanced its capabilities, with active elements designed to optimize stability at high speeds. Every detail was engineered to perfection, from the height-adjustable suspension to the carbon-ceramic brakes, ensuring that the One-77 was as agile as it was powerful.
At the heart of the Aston Martin One-77 lies a monstrous 7.3-liter V12 engine, capable of delivering a staggering 750 horsepower. (Picture from: AstonMartin)
Yet, power alone wasn’t what made this car truly special. The craftsmanship behind every One-77 was nothing short of extraordinary. Each exterior panel was hand-formed from aluminum, giving the car a bespoke touch that set it apart from mass-produced supercars. Inside, the cabin exuded luxury, with hand-stitched leather, carbon fiber accents, and cutting-edge technology seamlessly integrated into a driver-focused cockpit. Every detail, down to the finest stitch, was designed to create an experience that was both exhilarating and refined.
The Aston Martin One-77 showcased extraordinary craftsmanship with hand-formed aluminum exterior panels, offering a bespoke touch unmatched by mass-produced supercars. (Picture from: AstonMartin)
Owning a One-77 was a privilege reserved for only a select few. With a price tag of $1.87 million, this hypercar was among the most expensive in the world. Yet, even with its staggering cost, demand was overwhelming. Aston Martin reported that 60 out of the 77 units were already spoken for before production had even concluded. For those who secured a spot on the exclusive list, the One-77 wasn’t just a car—it was a statement, a piece of automotive history that embodied power, beauty, and rarity in its purest form.
The Aston Martin One-77, with only 77 units produced, instantly became one of the rarest and most exclusive supercars in the world. (Picture from: AstonMartin)
The exclusivity didn’t stop at the car itself. Many owners opted to pair their One-77 with the Aston Martin Cygnet, a luxury microcar based on the Toyota iQ. While drastically different in size and performance, the Cygnet was offered as a stylish urban companion, often customized to match its high-performance counterpart. It was a bold contrast—one designed for speed and adrenaline, the other for practicality and convenience—but together, they formed a unique expression of Aston Martin’s versatility.
The One-77 was more than just a supercar; it was the pinnacle of what Aston Martin could achieve. It pushed boundaries, set new standards, and left an undeniable mark on the industry. Even years after its debut, it remains a symbol of engineering brilliance, a rare masterpiece that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. Few cars can claim to be both a work of art and a technological marvel, but the One-77 did exactly that—securing its place as one of the most unforgettable creations in automotive history. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ASTON MARTIN | TOPGEAR | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Artmotion Symphony - When art fuses with engineering, the result is something more than just a machine—it becomes a statement, a bold vision brought to life on four wheels. That’s exactly what Lamborghini has accomplished with the Revuelto Opera Unica. First revealed at the vibrant Art Basel Miami Beach 2023, this isn’t just another luxury car unveiling—it’s a celebration of creative freedom, craftsmanship, and the brand’s relentless pursuit of innovation, wrapped in one astonishing package.
The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica, first revealed at the vibrant Art Basel Miami Beach 2023, is not just another luxury car unveiling but a bold celebration of artistic freedom, masterful craftsmanship, and the brand’s relentless drive for innovation—all wrapped in one breathtaking creation. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)
Inspired by the same daring spirit that gave rise to the Huracán Sterrato, the Revuelto Opera Unica stands as a singular artistic creation—a one-of-one expression from Lamborghini’s Centro Stile design house in collaboration with the Ad Personam customization program. Created to mark the company’s 60th anniversary, this car isn’t just a nod to the past, but a bold leap into the future of what a supercar can be.
The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica stands as a one-of-a-kind artistic creation by Lamborghini’s Centro Stile design house in collaboration with the Ad Personam customization program, crafted to celebrate the brand’s 60th anniversary while boldly redefining the future of what a supercar can be. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)
The exterior is where things truly take flight. Over 435 painstaking hours—more than 18 full days—were spent transforming the car’s surface into a dynamic work of art. The base colors of Viola Pasifae and Nero Helene provide a deep, elegant canvas for sweeping strokes of red, blue, and orange that ripple across the body like movement frozen in time. The paintwork is entirely hand-brushed, giving the car a living, breathing texture, with a subtle shadowed Lamborghini emblem on the hood that feels both classic and contemporary.
The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica features an exterior transformed over 435 painstaking hours into a dynamic work of art, where a deep blend of Viola Pasifae and Nero Helene serves as an elegant canvas for sweeping red, blue, and orange brushstrokes that ripple across the body like motion captured in stillness. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)
Step inside, and the artistry continues. Two-tone leather in Viola Acutus and Nero Ade wraps around the cabin in a play of warm and cool hues that mirrors the kinetic energy of the exterior. This interior detailing took an additional 220 hours to perfect, and every inch reflects Lamborghini’s devotion to design.
The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica continues its artistic expression inside with two-tone leather in Viola Acutus and Nero Ade wrapping the cabin in a blend of warm and cool tones that echo the exterior’s energy, perfected through an additional 220 hours of meticulous craftsmanship that reflects the brand’s unwavering dedication to design. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)
Embroidered anniversary logos in the headrests, door panels, and ceiling nod to the marque’s heritage, while an inscription reading “The Future Began in 1963” reminds you this machine is part of a larger story. Even the start/stop button has been raised for dramatic effect, and a special “Opera Unica” plaque cements its one-off status.
The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica retains its unfiltered power with a monstrous V12 plug-in hybrid engine—delivering 1,001 horsepower and 595 lb-ft of torque—intentionally left untouched to preserve its status as one of the most electrifying performance machines on the planet. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)
Beneath the artwork lies unfiltered power. Lamborghini wisely chose to leave the Revuelto’s monstrous V12 plug-in hybrid untouched. Delivering 1,001 horsepower and 595 lb-ft of torque, it maintains its place as one of the most electrifying performance machines on the planet. And despite all the artistic additions, it hasn’t lost an ounce of that raw, adrenaline-pumping identity that defines every Lambo.
The Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica showcases its sculpted rear with twin hexagonal exhausts, sharp LED lighting, and subtle hand-painted accents that affirm its identity as a rolling work of art. (Picture from: duPnntRegestry)
But perhaps the most surprising twist in the story is what happened next. After being unveiled as a pure piece of art, the Opera Unica has now made its way into the world of collectors. Listed by a private seller, this one-off hypercar is available for purchase through none other than duPont Registry, the premier marketplace for rare and exotic vehicles. While the exact asking price hasn’t been publicly disclosed, estimates place its value around $1.3 million—a figure that barely captures the hundreds of hours, talent, and heritage poured into this automotive sculpture. | D9dkfxDqvdw | 8V57an-Kvi4 |
So, what do you get when a supercar becomes a canvas? You get the Lamborghini Revuelto Opera Unica—a moving masterpiece that blurs the lines between engineering, emotion, and expression. It's not just built to drive, but to inspire. And for one lucky collector, it won’t just be admired at an art fair. It’ll be parked in their garage. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DUPONTREGESTRY | BLACKXPERIENCE | THESUPERCARBLOG ]
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Retrofire Elegance - In a world increasingly shaped by electric drivetrains and stripped-down, minimalist design, there’s still something undeniably thrilling about the deep growl of a V8 engine wrapped in the sculpted elegance of Italian craftsmanship. Automotive history is filled with legendary names that defined its golden age—Ferrari, Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo—but beyond the spotlight, there are stories just as compelling.
The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato, a carbon-fiber-bodied grand tourer powered by a Corvette Z06 engine, marks the bold revival of the once-renowned Iso brand by Italian coachbuilder Zagato. (Picture from: Petrolicious)
One of them is Iso Rivolta, a brand that quietly faded into obscurity for decades before making a dramatic return with the revival of a stunning creation: the Iso Rivolta GT Zagato, which first captured public attention in early 2020.
The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato was offered in a limited run of just 19 units, all of which were swiftly claimed by passionate collectors.. (Picture from: Petrolicious)
Originally founded in 1939 by Renzo Rivolta, the company started not with dreams of racetracks and roaring engines, but rather with practical appliances—electric heaters and refrigerators. After World War II, the company pivoted toward mobility, first entering the scooter business before innovating with the microcar concept known today as the BMW Isetta. That small, quirky vehicle may have opened the door to the automotive world, but Rivolta’s ambitions extended far beyond city streets and fuel economy.
The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato is an elegant two-door coupe, featuring flowing lines inspired by the powerful Iso Grifo A3/C of the 1960s. (Picture from: Petrolicious)
By the early 1960s, the company rebranded as Iso Rivolta and set its sights firmly on the grand touring segment. Collaborating with legends like Giotto Bizzarrini and Bertone, Iso created vehicles that blended sleek Italian design with raw American muscle, sourcing reliable V8 engines from General Motors. Cars like the Iso Rivolta IR 300 and the race-ready A3/C became cult favorites, but the 1973 Oil Crisis brought the Iso dream to an end. Or so it seemed.
The interior is wrapped in hand-stitched Italian leather and festooned with numerous badging and exclusive embroidery. (Picture from: RobbReport)
Fast forward to today, and that legacy has not only been remembered—it’s been reborn. The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato, crafted in collaboration with the renowned coachbuilder Zagato, is a modern tribute that bridges decades of automotive passion. And while retro-inspired designs are nothing new, this is far from a nostalgic gimmick. The GT Zagato digs deep into the Iso archives, pulling DNA from the 1963 A3 model and infusing it with contemporary craftsmanship and performance.
Also retained from the C7 Corvette are the seat frames and dashboard. (Picture from: RobbReport)
The GT Zagato is based on the Chevrolet C7 Corvette Z06, staying true to Iso’s tradition of pairing Italian flair with American horsepower. It boasts a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 660 horsepower, enabling it to rocket from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 315 km/h. For the truly power-hungry, there’s an upgrade option that takes it to a ferocious 750 horsepower.
Powering the car is the C7 Corvette’s 6.2-liter supercharged LT4 V-8, making 660 hp. (Picture from: RobbReport)
Designed under the meticulous eye of Norihiko Harada, Zagato’s chief designer, the GT Zagato reflects an artistic interpretation of performance. Its carbon fiber body keeps the car lightweight while maintaining flowing, muscular lines that echo its classic predecessor. The omission of Zagato’s signature “double-bubble” roof is no accident—it’s a deliberate choice to honor the clean purity of 1960s automotive styling.
The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato features entirely bespoke design elements, with no body panels from the Corvette and custom-made windows, lights, wheels, and door handles. (Picture from: Petrolicious)
But what truly makes this car special is not just the stats or the aesthetics—it’s the emotional connection to history. That connection runs especially deep within the families that brought this revival to life. Marella Rivolta, granddaughter of Renzo Rivolta and now Art Director at Zagato, has played a central role in reviving her family’s brand. Married to Andrea Zagato, she represents a living fusion of two iconic Italian automotive bloodlines.
The Iso Rivolta GT Zagato features hand-laid carbon fiber bodywork, achieving a curb weight that is several hundred pounds lighter than the Corvette Z06. (Picture from: Petrolicious)
What began as a virtual concept car in the Gran Turismo video game has transformed into a limited-production reality—only 19 units will be made, catering to connoisseurs who appreciate heritage as much as horsepower. | Ns_7H0s_Rcw |
It’s rare for a car to feel like a love letter, but the Iso Rivolta GT Zagato is just that—a tribute to an era, a family, a philosophy. It’s not just a revival of a brand; it’s the resurrection of a spirit that once defined grand touring excellence. For those lucky enough to experience it, the GT Zagato isn’t just a car—it’s a moving piece of history, roaring back to life on the open road. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZAGATO | PETROLICIOUS | ROBBREPORT | SILODROME | TECHZLE ]
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Singular Motion - Not too long ago, we explored the curious charm of the Tracer MK III, a sleek three-wheeled creation that sparked plenty of discussion among enthusiasts of experimental transport. Vehicles like that blur the line between practical transportation and rolling art—and it turns out, there's more where that came from. Meet the Feora, a one-of-a-kind machine that takes the idea of efficiency, design, and individuality to an entirely new level. Built not by a large company but by the hands of one determined builder, it’s a reminder that innovation often comes from where you least expect it.
The Ophorst Feora is a hand-built, street-legal three-wheeled vehicle created by Chuck Ophorst in the early 1980s with an aircraft-inspired focus on aerodynamics and efficiency. (Picture from: Back In Time (80s and 90s) in Facebook)
Crafted by Charles “Chuck” Ophorst of Bellflower, California, the Feora doesn’t fit neatly into any category. Some call it the world’s most aerodynamic trike, others see it as a futuristic pod with a Honda heartbeat. Either way, it’s a vehicle that draws eyes—and questions—wherever it goes. It started with a Honda SL175 Twin-cylinder engine tucked in the rear of a fiberglass-bodied frame, pushing a streamlined, tandem-seat capsule that looks like something out of a concept museum. Yet, it’s not just a visual experiment—it moves, and it moves well.
The Ophorst Feora features a fully enclosed, teardrop-shaped fiberglass body, a tandem two-seat cockpit, and is powered by a compact 175cc Honda twin-cylinder engine mounted at the rear. (Picture from: Ottw.es)
Despite its light 500-pound frame, the Feora isn’t just about being nimble. Thanks to its aerodynamic profile and clever engineering, it can reach up to 85 mph while achieving an astonishing 80 miles per gallon. Those are numbers most economy cars can only dream of, and that’s with the original 175cc engine. Ophorst once hinted at installing a beefier 500cc engine to give it more punch, and the thought alone opens up even more possibilities for this compact machine.
Charles Ophorst proudly posing with his hand-built Feora trike in 1981, a one-of-a-kind creation that blended aerodynamic design with engineering creativity. (Picture from: Ottw.es)
What truly sets the Feora apart is its construction. The aircraft-inspired space frame made of 1020 drawn steel tubing gives it structural integrity without unnecessary weight. Front-end rack-and-pinion steering, triple disc brakes, and a full set of automotive-style controls inside the capsule show just how much thought and craftsmanship went into the build. Even airflow was meticulously planned, with dedicated ducts guiding air from high-pressure zones at the front to keep both engine and passengers cool.
The Ophorst Feora, built in 1982, was powered by a 20 hp, 174cc single-cylinder Honda engine paired with a 5-speed transmission. (Picture from: Back In Time (80s and 90s) in Facebook)
During a test run around town, the Feora did more than just keep up with traffic—it stopped people in their tracks. From gardeners to shoppers and even fellow motorists, no one could ignore the bright yellow blur as it passed by. That reaction wasn't just because of how unusual it looked, but because it was clearly built with intention and passion. Every weld, every curve, every control—nothing was there by accident.
The Ophorst Feora has a truly unique look, combining elements of an experimental vehicle, moving art, and ground-bound aircraft, built with a focus on engineering and efficiency over conventional style. (Picture from: Rolling Art in Facebook)
Though Ophorst had ambitions of low-volume production and even potential DIY kits, those plans never fully materialized. Rumors of a future four-wheeled evolution floated around, but no concrete versions ever surfaced. Still, even as a one-off, the Feora stands as a glowing example of what’s possible when creativity meets craftsmanship.
The Ophorst Feora features a lightweight fiberglass body with accessible rear-mounted engine placement for easy maintenance. (Picture from: Ottw.es)
It may not be in showrooms or mass-produced, but the Feora captures the spirit of innovation that keeps the world of alternative vehicles alive. Much like the Tracer MK III before it, it's not just about getting from point A to B—it’s about how much imagination you can fit between the wheels. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MAGAZINECYCLEWORLD | OTTW.ES | ROLLING ART IN FACEBOOK | BACK IN TIME (80S AND 90S) IN FACEBOOK ]
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Turboquaint Marvel - In a world where performance cars often scream for attention with aggressive styling and deafening exhaust notes, the true charm sometimes lies in the unexpected. Among the many rare automotive curiosities, few vehicles have defied their utilitarian roots as boldly and bizarrely as the Toyota GT-Z Comfort Supercharger. At first glance, it blends into the background—a familiar silhouette to anyone who's ever hailed a cab in Japan, Hong Kong, or Singapore. But hiding beneath its mild-mannered exterior is a piece of Toyota's forgotten experimentation, equal parts strange and wonderful.
The Toyota GT-Z Comfort Supercharger looks like a taxi, but is one of the best sleepers and rarest car Toyota ever made. (Picture from: JapaneseNostalgicCar)
Originally, the Toyota Crown Comfort was a vehicle designed with a singular purpose: durability and reliability for fleet service. Released in 1995, it was intentionally a step backward in technology, prioritizing simplicity over sophistication. With its live rear axle, drum brakes, and upright stance, it became the go-to taxi platform across much of Asia. Its presence was so dominant that even today, over 90 percent of Hong Kong's taxis remain Toyota Comforts. But in 2003, Toyota, through its motorsport arm TRD (Toyota Racing Development), decided to do something entirely unexpected.
The Toyota GT-Z Comfort Supercharger recently found new life through a meticulous restoration by Contempo Concepts, a Hong Kong shop renowned more for reviving supercars than aging ex-taxis. (Picture from: Contempo Concepts on Facebook)
They took 59 of these workhorses and gave them a complete factory makeover. The result was the Crown Comfort TRD GT-Z Supercharger—an almost laughable contradiction in terms, and yet undeniably intriguing. At the heart of this transformation was a 3S-FE engine boosted by an Ogura Clutch TX07 roots-type supercharger, doubling the original output from a modest 80 horsepower to a respectable 160. That was only the beginning.
The Toyota GT-Z Comfort Supercharger's inside featured with bucket seats, bespoke steering wheel, performance gauges. (Picture from: CarGuide)
To match the newfound power, Toyota added a TRD body kit, a performance exhaust, and RS-Watanabe 15-inch wheels that became a rare factory addition. Inside, the cabin received racing-style TRD bucket seats, a sporty TRD steering wheel and shift knob, and a unique triple-Omori-gauge center stack. These weren’t just visual upgrades—they helped complete the identity of a true enthusiast’s sleeper car, one that wore its taxi costume with ironic pride.
Despite its performance aspirations, the GT-Z retained the basic underpinnings of the Comfort, including the suspension setup meant more for pothole resilience than corner carving. That quirky mismatch only added to its charm, making it an anomaly in Toyota’s lineup and a cult favorite among collectors and restorers today.
The Toyota GT-Z Comfort Supercharger borrowed the Toyota built 3S-FE motor from a Camry and boosted by an Ogura Clutch TX07 roots-type supercharger. (Picture from: JapaneseNostalgicCar)
One such example recently found new life through a meticulous restoration by Contempo Concepts, a Hong Kong-based shop better known for reviving supercars than ex-taxis. With impressive dedication, the team stripped the car to its bones and reassembled it using nearly all OEM Toyota parts still in circulation. The attention to detail was staggering—from new factory splash guards to fresh dashboard plastics and even period-correct RS-Watanabe wheels.
While many parts were easily sourced due to the car’s taxi origins, items unique to the GT-Z—like its badging, special gauges, and interior trim—required patience and resourcefulness. The final result wasn’t just a rebuild; it was a resurrection of something incredibly rare and weirdly lovable. The Comfort GT-Z Supercharger may never match the pedigree of a Supra or Celica, but its story is arguably more fascinating. | jwQAoXhxxNU |
It’s hard to explain why Toyota made a high-performance version of one of its most boring cars, but maybe that’s the beauty of it. In a lineup filled with deliberate decisions and market research, the GT-Z feels like a passion project that slipped through the cracks—proof that even the most unassuming vehicle can become legendary with the right touch of madness. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CONTEMPO CONCEPTS ON FACEBOOK | JAPANNOSTALGICCAR | CARSGUIDE | JALOPNIK | CARINLIFECLASSIC | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Still, the buzz it's generated online has sparked interest in what a limited production run might look like. For now, the ESX will have its moment in the spotlight at the prestigious Le Mans Classic from July 3–6, 2025, showcasing not just a car, but the talent and vision of the next generation of automotive designers. The Heritage ESX is more than a nod to history—it’s a reminder that when passion meets skill, even legends can be reborn in the most unexpected ways. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SBARRO.PHCALVET.FR | CARSCOOPS | OBSCURESUPERCAR IN X ]
