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In 1993, renowned designer Luigi Colani developed the Carisma Spyder, a modern, aerodynamic concept based on the Corvette at his design center in Toulouse, France. This futuristic vehicle, primarily white and transparent, exemplified Colani’s distinctive style and artistic vision, standing out as a remarkable creation for the late 20th century.
The Carisma Spyder masterfully fused aerodynamics with cutting-edge design, boasting a sleek silhouette that propelled it like a rocket. The vehicle’s interior, reminiscent of a prehistoric cave, featured ergonomically designed seats integrated into the bodywork, providing both comfort and innovation. The car’s distinctive rear, with its curving sides, acted as a full-body spoiler, while the nearly flat windscreen extended far back, seamlessly blending with the side windows and the transparent roof.
To test Colani’s aerodynamic principles, a custom-built ultralight version of the Carisma Spyder was taken to the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah for a speed record attempt. The prototype excelled, reaching an impressive top speed of 251 mph.
The Spyder’s interior design, finished in striking black and yellow leather, felt almost organic, with contoured seats and innovative features like the ergonomically shaped gearstick and a spokeless steering wheel. Once started, the car’s V8 engine delivered an exhilarating driving experience, complete with panoramic views from the cockpit.
The foundation of this extraordinary vehicle was a Corvette ZR1, known for its powerful V8 engine and rich history in American sports car culture. Colani’s design transformed this classic into a work of art, likening its sleek lines to a porpoise gliding through the waves—but this machine soared through the air instead.
Key specs include:
• Length: 5.20 m
• Width: 2.04 m
• Height: 1.24 m
• Weight: 1480 kg
• Engine: V8, 5735 cc, producing 380 hp
• Top speed: 251 mph