When it comes to kit cars, we all know there are legions of unusual creations usually produced in exceedingly small numbers. It seems like every day there is yet another one we haven’t heard of popping up for sale. Today, it’s this unusual 1981 Aquila kit car that actually looks fairly sporting for something that is, of course, based on an air-cooled VW. The seller reports that it’s just one of 140 ever made, which is believable considering how infrequently they pop up for sale – and it’s likely there are even fewer still left on the road today. This one looks fairly well screwed together and is listed here on eBay with bids to $5,600 and the reserve unmet.
Of course, it has gullwing doors which actually appear to be doing a half-decent job of staying upright. The bodywork is fiberglass and the seller doesn’t report any issues with the exterior, which is coated in yellow metal flake paint and said to be in excellent condition. The kit car origins are always apparent from some angles more than others, and I’d argue the back of the Aquila is where it gives away its secrets; you just can’t change the stance of these things, whereas a true supercar would have some serious rubber out back mounted on staggered wheels. The VW chassis, I suppose, just isn’t up for it, and while it may look menacing from the front, it just looks humble from behind.
The interior is in beautiful condition, with what looks like very soft leather or leather-like material covering the bucket seats. The interior also features a quick-release steering wheel which the seller notes make it easier to get in and out of the low-slung cockpit. The interior also features a full assortment of gauges and working air conditioning, which is a surprise in such a niche car like this. There’s even a radio, CD player, overhead lights, two-speed wipers, and switches for the headlights and windshield washer – commonplace in most cars, but likely a higher level of detail than you’ll find in most kit cars like this. It at least indicates a pride in ownership on the part of the seller.
The engine is a 1776 VW engine that benefits from lots of recent maintenance, including a new timing set, fuel line and fuel filter, plugs/wires, points, rotor, and distributor cap. The seller reports it runs strong with no issues cruising on the highway and that it stops on a dime, too. There’s definitely a following for the kit cars of almost every kind, but the truly rare ones like this Aquila seem to stand a better chance of being acquired and of finding owners to serve as caretakers for the long-term. There are plenty of Bradley GTs and Kelmarks out there rotting away, but hopefully this Aquila won’t ever become one of them.
That’s a really nice example. And yes, there were roughly 140 built of 2 body styles built. Years ago I talked with the owners’ son, who personally laid up every body. I had one, probably one of the best built kits around. It also boasts the worst seating position of all kits. Still, very fun cars.
I bought the Aquila and would greatly appreciate any information.
Thanks,
Terry
Congrats Terry!
Hi Terry!
I know I am replying a few years after you’ve purchased it, as it is now October 2023, I’m just curious if you still own the Aquila?
I own the red Aquila that was featured in a few kit car magazines throughout the years
(it’s the Aquila with the 2.8 mercury V6.)…
If you happen to come across my message, please reach out to me
I would like to have first right of refusal to purchase your car (in the event you still own it, of course).
I’ve always loved this style!
I always wanted to purchase a second example, and from the photos, it looks like yours was well-built
Thanks, Jack
This is a c*ck teaser
All the hype but no go
I love driving too much to consider this pile of junk
Why the totally unnecessary and unjustified insults? What the hell is this with some people, this unbearable arrogance? How about trying to be nice, it doesn´t hurt, in fact it´ll make you feel better. Life is tough enough without making it more so deliberately. Whoever built this machine did one hell of a job and put a real stunner on the road. Have you ever heard of giving credit where it´s due? I bet you like to belittle people and kicks dogs too.
I bet it’s a far better creation than he could ever build as well. Talk is cheap.
Not sure what this is but I like it a lot.
It appears that an early Countach and a Bricklin SV-1 had a few too many and spent a wild night together….
Best kit car interior ive ever seeñ, beats both SV1 and Lambo by miles
Looks like somebody sideswiped a pole and ripped open the side.
Sold for $11k.
Well if it sold for $11,000 then it must have been a pretty decently built kit car. As for the interior, it’s beautiful.
Wow. A kit car that you could actually drive like a real car. The interior looks better than any of the Italian exotics of the same era. The Volksie heritage means it will start on rainy days. What’s not to love? But I won’t fit in it. Darn.
Gone! A great 911 retrofit. Good times to the new owner!
Runs pretty good for a 1776 model VW engine. Too low to the ground for me, I’d literally have to roll into and out of it
The Aquila GT was designed after the 1972 BMW Turbo which was built by Paul Braq. The Aquila GT is not just a beautiful Tribute to German styling, add a Turbo and watch performance come up. These cars were built quite sturdy and can be had for reasonable money.