We’re on a solid run of these “Faux-rraris”, typically based on Datsun 240/260Z underpinnings and mechanical systems. I can’t remember having so many pop up in the years I’ve written for this site, but here we are. What’s most impressive (shocking?) is that the owners seem to spend serious money on building these cars, and this example comes with a host of goodies and a gorgeous aluminum body. Find this unfinished Ferrari replica project here on eBay with bidding over $2K and no reserve.
Now, keep in mind: I am not casting shame on kit car owners. I actually have an appreciation for really well done examples, which is why I like this Barn Finds Exclusive Kelmark GT so much: it’s a tidy example with a body in mint condition and surprisingly complete cabin that offers a bit of Jaguar E-Type inside. Of course, that’s only possible when the kit’s fragile interior components haven’t deteriorated after years of exposure. This particular Ferrari replica actually sits on a Corvette chassis, with the suspension already rebuilt.
Engine-wise, the seller has procured a “….new 340 b.h.p. crate motor with new scattershield bellhousing, clutch, flywheel, hydraulic throwout bearing, TKO five speed.” The proportions look good, although the shop roller wheels are doing the fenders no favors. While there’s a lot to like here, some major components are not included: driveshaft, radiator, mufflers / pipes will have to be sourced, but it does come with new headers and fuel cell.
While I want to say the hard work’s been done, there’s still plenty more to do – like a full interior. When I see a tribute like this, I realize we’re not alone when making investments in projects more out of passion than common sense. The seller is correct that lots of time / money has been invested, and more is certainly needed, all for a car that will likely be a hard sell to anyone other than another enthusiast hankering for a Ferrari 250 replica. Would you build a replica like this?
This is no kit car. It’s a hand made aluminum body. Probably thousands of hours spent.
Clearly a 275GTB, not a GTO.
Clearly a 275GTB, not a GTO
Gone.
Steve R
Not to mention the Bugatti Atlantic (?) coupe in the background.
The gated shift plate is a source of engineering exercise, or in my case, an exercise in reverse engineering. Easier for me to trace out the throws on a template than to hit the drafting board. It didn’t look right so I polished the snot out of it. Still did not look right. At least the throws matched the gates.
Nice.
Does that mean there is a Vette body that ‘s looking for a frame ?
Not if it’s a Gen 3 or newer…good riddance.
A thing of beauty, whether it’s a genuine original or a faithful copy. Why have American designers never learned how to make shapes blend together? Our cars look like awkward boxes by comparison.
I think it’s amazing. But how in the heck would you finish this out? How are all of the trim pieces done, headlight housings, trunk latches, everything? How would you do all of that stuff?
Greetings All,
Nate, I’d likely check large Italian manufacturers to see what Ferrari “borrowed” from other company’s parts.
Almost all of those bits are from Alfas of the 60’s. I have help paint a couple of these in the past and door handles interior and exterior were an almost or a perfect match to ones from my 63 Alfa. Fiat and Lancia did the same thing. This is also true for hood & trunk latches. Go to a car show where there is one you can get detailed photos of and then start hunting.
With most of the exotic makers from Aston Martin to Maserati and including some of the more recent makers they use parts you do not see from major makers. Their volume is just to small to justify making a special order piece for a few hundred at most units. Even the Muria has a mini turn signal I believe or something similar.
The glass will be the hard part. If the windshield and rear window are exact fits you are in luck but making a custom window now days is almost impossible and takes very serious cash up front. On all exotics and kit cars the glass is often the. most expensive part to match or replace.
yes, 4 a kit – I’d like an interior 2 come w/it. I can futz around w/just about all the rest but would “wanna take a break” on that. “…check large Italian manufacturers…” only want some guarantees for that B4 the purchase.
So that alu body’n interior would B my start. A Blue Flame’n trip YHs turboed…not sure what frame/suspension but there’s a Bilstien StreetOrTrack…
seriously impressive…
I have seen this guy’s work for several years now, and I have tried to meet him since he lives in Raleigh NC which is not to far from me. I was told that he got his start bending metal flashing for roofing.
I will say his skills have definitely improved over the years and his stuff is starting to look really good.
I would find a BMW v12 and put in it with a brace of webers just for looks.
Never liked kit cars or replicas. I’d rather drive the boring Caprice than drive a pseudo Ferrari.
Give the guy credit, he’s done a magnificent job on it. Looks great