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18 Modern Coachbuilt Cars Every Collector Must Own

Maserati Sciàdipersia Cabriolet

In the world of automotive design, fuoriserie stands as a symbol of bespoke craftsmanship, luxury, and exclusivity. The term, which translates to “out of series” in Italian, refers to vehicles that are custom-built outside the regular production lines of major car manufacturers. Rooted in the early days of the automobile industry, when wealthy clients sought unique designs tailored to their tastes, fuoriserie cars have always been an expression of individuality and artistic vision. In Italy, the tradition of coachbuilding has been upheld by renowned carrozzieri (coachbuilders), who take the chassis and mechanics of a car and transform them into something completely distinct.

Historically, coachbuilders like Pininfarina, Bertone, and Zagato became legendary for their ability to reimagine automobiles as rolling works of art. These companies turned ordinary cars into masterpieces, designing custom bodies with elegant lines, intricate details, and cutting-edge aerodynamics. While mass production has largely overtaken the car industry, these Italian firms continue to push the boundaries of creativity, producing extremely limited-edition vehicles that stand apart from anything available on the market.

In recent years, a resurgence of interest in modern fuoriserie has taken place. These custom coachbuilt cars combine the best of two worlds: the iconic craftsmanship and design principles of the past with the advanced technology and performance capabilities of the present. Crafted for collectors and enthusiasts, these vehicles are made in extremely small numbers, often fewer than 10 units, ensuring that each car is a rare gem in the world of automotive engineering.

What follows is a look at 20 modern fuoriserie cars, all created by Italian coachbuilders in limited editions. Each of these cars represents the pinnacle of custom automotive design, blending timeless aesthetics with cutting-edge technology. From Ferrari and Alfa Romeo to Aston Martin and Bentley, these extraordinary vehicles showcase the enduring legacy and innovation of Italy’s finest carrozzerie, continuing a tradition that has captivated the world for over a century.

Alfa Romeo Disco Volante by Touring Superleggera (8 pcs)

Alfa Romeo Disco Volante by Touring Superleggera (8 pcs)

The Alfa Romeo Disco Volante, based on the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, is an exclusive two-seater coupé designed by Touring Superleggera and built in a limited series of just 8 specimens. Unveiled at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, this modern interpretation draws inspiration from the iconic Alfa Romeo C52 of 1952. The car features a front-central engine with a transaxle drivetrain, boasting a 4.7-liter V8 engine delivering 450 PS. Its dynamic design blends power and elegance, with striking proportions and dramatic styling. A true collector’s piece, it won the Design Award for Concept Cars & Prototypes at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013.

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Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio by Zagato (7 pcs)

Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio by Zagato (7 pcs)

The Ferrari 599 GTZ Nibbio, crafted by Zagato, is a bold, custom transformation of the Ferrari 599 GTB, featuring Zagato’s signature "double-bubble" roof and aggressive styling. With only nine examples produced, including two Spyders, this ultra-limited edition car combines Ferrari performance with Zagato's iconic design, making it a rare collector's masterpiece.

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Ferrari Sergio by Pininfarina (6 pcs)

Ferrari Sergio by Pininfarina (6 pcs)

The Ferrari Sergio, designed by Pininfarina, is a rare masterpiece with only six units built, each sold to handpicked clients for $3 million. Based on the Ferrari 458 Spider, the production model features significant changes from the original concept, including a windshield and removable hardtop for practicality. It retains Pininfarina’s unique design flair while sharing components with the 458 Spider. Powered by a 4.5-liter V8 engine delivering 562 horsepower, it accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 3 seconds, blending Ferrari’s performance with Pininfarina’s legacy.

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Automobili Speciali Zerouno by Italdesign (5 pcs)

Automobili Speciali Zerouno by Italdesign (5 pcs)

The Italdesign Zerouno, introduced at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, is the first model from the recent founded Italdesign Automobili Speciali. Based on the Audi R8, only five units of this exclusive supercar were built. Powered by a 5.2-liter V10 engine, the Zerouno accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 330 km/h. With a carbon fiber body and extensive customization options, the Zerouno combines cutting-edge design with high-performance

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Ferrari Berlinetta Lusso by Touring Superleggera (5 pcs)

Ferrari Berlinetta Lusso by Touring Superleggera (5 pcs)

**Ferrari Berlinetta Lusso by Touring Superleggera** The Ferrari Berlinetta Lusso by Touring Superleggera is an ultra-exclusive reimagining of the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, with only 5 units produced. Inspired by the legendary Ferrari 166 MM of the 1950s, the Berlinetta Lusso was crafted as a luxurious grand tourer, blending classic design with modern performance. Retaining the F12’s powerful 6.3-liter V12 engine and advanced mechanics, Touring Superleggera focused on weight reduction and hand-crafted styling. With hand-beaten aluminum and carbon fiber components, each car was customized to the owner’s specifications, representing the pinnacle of modern coachbuilding.

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Bentley Mulsanne Coupé by Ares Modena

Bentley Mulsanne Coupé by Ares Modena

The Bentley Mulsanne Coupé by Ares Design is a bespoke creation that transforms the classic four-door Mulsanne into a sleek, handcrafted coupé. Built in extremely limited numbers, this exclusive vehicle honors Bentley’s luxurious heritage while incorporating modern innovations. Using a mix of state-of-the-art technology and traditional craftsmanship, Ares Design reimagines the Mulsanne with elegant exterior lines and a meticulously detailed interior. This coupé offers a unique, personalized driving experience, blending Bentley's timeless appeal with the ultimate in bespoke automotive luxury.

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New Stratos by Manifattura Automobili Torino (25 pcs)

New Stratos by Manifattura Automobili Torino (25 pcs)

The New Stratos is a modern reimagining of the iconic Lancia Stratos, built on the Ferrari F430 platform. Initially crafted as a one-off by Pininfarina in 2010, it was later produced in a limited run of 25 units by Manifattura Automobili Torino, starting in 2018. Commissioned by collector Michael Stoscheck, the New Stratos brings the legendary 1970s rally car into the modern era. Combining Ferrari performance with bespoke design, this limited-edition sports coupé offers enthusiasts a unique blend of history and innovation.

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Ares Panther ProgettoUno (21 pcs)

Ares Panther ProgettoUno (21 pcs)

The Ares Panther, also known as the Panther ProgettoUno, is the first creation from ARES DESIGN’s ‘Legends Reborn’ series, reviving the iconic 1970s De Tomaso Pantera. Built in a limited run of 21 units, the Panther is crafted from carbon fiber for a lightweight and durable structure. Based on the Lamborghini Huracán, it boasts a 5204cc naturally aspirated V10 engine delivering 650 hp and 600 Nm of torque. The Panther blends classic proportions with cutting-edge performance, offering a modern interpretation of the legendary Pantera while embracing advanced engineering and craftsmanship.

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Maserati Sciàdipersia Cabriolet by Touring Superleggera (14 pcs)

Maserati Sciàdipersia Cabriolet by Touring Superleggera (14 pcs)

The Maserati Sciàdipersia Cabriolet, crafted by Touring Superleggera, is a stunning four-seater convertible limited to just 14 units. Inspired by Maserati’s legendary 5000GT Shah of Persia and the iconic 3500GT from the 1950s, this bespoke masterpiece blends classic elegance with modern luxury. Its sleek, flowing lines, dramatic proportions, and handcrafted details reflect the artistry of coachbuilding. With customizable interior finishes and a design that emphasizes timeless sophistication, the Sciàdipersia Cabriolet is a true statement of exclusivity and craftsmanship in the world of luxury automobiles.

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Nissan GT-R 50 by Italdesign (20 pcs)

Nissan GT-R 50 by Italdesign (20 pcs)

The Nissan GT-R 50 by Italdesign is a limited-edition masterpiece created to celebrate the 50th anniversaries of both the Nissan GT-R and Italdesign. Built on the Nissan GT-R NISMO platform, this exclusive model boasts a hand-built, NISMO-tuned 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine delivering 720 PS. Only 20 units of this highly personalized, road-going version were produced, combining Japanese engineering excellence with Italian design. Each vehicle allows buyers to customize specifications, including liveries inspired by legendary GT-R models, making this car a true collector’s item and a symbol of collaboration between two iconic brands.

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Aston Martin DBS GT Zagato (19 pcs)

Aston Martin DBS GT Zagato (19 pcs)

The Aston Martin DBS GT Zagato is an ultra-exclusive grand tourer, with only 19 units being produced. Designed by Zagato, it features unique elements such as a wide three-dimensional front grille, a distinctive hood opening, and a crystal-free double canopy rear window. The car's luxurious exterior includes 18-karat gold badges. Inside, the exclusivity continues with 3D-printed metallic elements, customizable in aluminum, carbon fiber, or a thin gold layer via PVD technology.

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Touring Aero3 by Touring Superleggera (15 pcs)

Touring Aero3 by Touring Superleggera (15 pcs)

The Touring Aero3, based on the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, is a limited-edition masterpiece with only 15 units to be produced. Featuring an aluminum "superleggera" body, the Aero3 is inspired by the streamlined style of Touring’s 1930s models, particularly the Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B. Designed for beauty rather than efficiency, the teardrop shape defines its sleek, harmonious curves. With a powerful V12 engine and bespoke customization options, the Aero3 offers both stunning aesthetics and exhilarating performance. Its dorsal fin, inspired by early aerodynamic studies, adds to the car’s unique design, blending history with modern flair.

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Iso Rivolta GTZ by Zagato (19 pcs)

Iso Rivolta GTZ by Zagato (19 pcs)

The Iso Rivolta GTZ marks the rebirth of the Iso Rivolta brand, limited to just 19 units and inspired by the legendary Iso Rivolta A3C of the 1960s. Paying tribute to the race-winning Grifo A3C and its Bizzarrini 5300 variant, the GTZ carries on the legacy of Italian engineering excellence. Based on the 660 hp Corvette and featuring bespoke carbon fiber bodywork, this stunning Gran Turismo was meticulously crafted by Zagato. With unique components and a modern yet classic design, the GTZ blends history and innovation, making it a coveted collector's car.

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Touring Arese RH95 (18 pcs)

Touring Arese RH95 (18 pcs)

The Touring Arese RH95 is the latest masterpiece from Touring Superleggera, celebrating 95 years of the brand's heritage. Based on the Ferrari 488 GTB, this is Touring's first mid-engine supercar, featuring bold yet refined design elements, including novel scissor doors and a distinctive dorsal scoop that enhances engine cooling. Inspired by the Disco Volante and AERO3, the RH95's sleek, sculpted body offers a blend of elegance and drama. Inside, the Aero "Cocoon" concept creates individualized cockpits, with personalized details like monogrammed seats. Powered by a 670 hp V8, only 18 units will be handbuilt, each requiring 5,000 hours of craftsmanship.

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Bertone GB110 (33 pcs)

Bertone GB110 (33 pcs)

The Bertone GB110 is a limited-edition hypercar that delivers staggering performance while paying tribute to the brand’s iconic 1960s and 70s designs. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 5.2-liter V10 engine, based on the Lamborghini Huracán platform, the GB110 produces 1,100 horsepower and 1,100 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.79 seconds with a top speed exceeding 380 km/h. Its distinctive design, featuring narrow headlights, an elongated hood, and a bold rear profile, enhances both aerodynamics and aesthetics. Limited to 33 units, the GB110 also pioneers eco-friendly innovation, using a unique fuel system that converts plastic waste into fossil fuel, reflecting Bertone’s commitment to sustainability. This hypercar symbolizes Bertone’s return, blending performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology.

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AGTZ Twin Tail by Zagato and La Squadra (19 pcs)

AGTZ Twin Tail by Zagato and La Squadra (19 pcs)

The AGTZ Twin Tail, inspired by the legendary A220, fuses the elegance of the past with futuristic innovation. Built on the A110 berlinette chassis, this limited-edition GT car offers a unique feature: removable rear bodywork, allowing owners to switch between graceful longtail and muscular shorttail configurations. Priced at €650,000 before taxes, the AGTZ Twin Tail combines modern driving performance with timeless design, celebrating personalization and craftsmanship. With only 19 units to be produced, it’s a rare masterpiece that highlights individuality and ushers in a new era of automotive excellence.

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 Morgan Midsummer by Pininfarina (50 pcs)

Morgan Midsummer by Pininfarina (50 pcs)

The Morgan Midsummer by Pininfarina is a limited-edition barchetta that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern design. Born from the collaboration between Morgan Motor Company and Pininfarina, only 50 units will be produced, making it a highly exclusive collector’s item. The sleek exterior features sustainable teak wood accents, enhancing its elegance and connection to nature, while the hand-stitched leather interior offers luxurious comfort. Powered by a turbocharged six-cylinder engine and featuring adjustable Nitron shock absorbers, the Midsummer delivers exhilarating performance. Marked by the prestigious “Pininfarina Fuoriserie” badge, it is a celebration of the rich legacies of both brands.

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Touring Veloce12 by Touring Superleggera (30 pcs)

Touring Veloce12 by Touring Superleggera (30 pcs)

The Touring Veloce12, based on the Ferrari 550, is a limited-edition supercar blending mid-century Italian coachbuilding elegance with cutting-edge design. Crafted by Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera, the Veloce12 features a lightweight carbon fiber body and advanced engineering, including CAD technology and FEM analysis, for precision and performance. Powered by an upgraded 5.5L V12 engine delivering 503hp, the Veloce12 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds, with a top speed of 320 km/h. With bespoke wheels, a Brembo braking system, and a luxurious handcrafted interior, this masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship is limited to just 30 units.

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The Alfa Romeo Duetto, one of the most iconic roadsters ever produced, represents a confluence of Italian design, engineering prowess, and a unique moment in automotive history. Its design genesis reflects not only the artistic innovation that defined mid-20th century automotive styling but also the commercial and industrial pressures of the era. The car’s journey from conception to international fame is a testament to the creative brilliance of Pininfarina and Alfa Romeo’s bold vision.

A Vision Sparked by the Success of the Giulia

The design journey of the Duetto began in the early 1960s, following the commercial success of Alfa Romeo’s Giulia series. The Giulia sedan, introduced in 1962, was quickly followed by a coupé in 1963, both of which performed exceptionally well in the marketplace. Seeing the strong sales of the coupé version, Alfa Romeo decided it was time to round out the series with a new spider (convertible). This decision set the stage for what would become the Duetto.

Hyman Ltd

Initially, Alfa Romeo turned to Bertone, to develop the spider variant. Giorgetto Giugiaro, Bertone’s talented designers, created a prototype known as the Alfa Romeo GTC, which was manufactured by Carrozzeria Touring and launched in 1965. However, the reception from the market was lukewarm, and the GTC failed to capture the same magic as its predecessors. This setback led Alfa Romeo to seek alternative design solutions, marking a major turning point in the spider’s development.

The Shift to Pininfarina

In 1965, Alfa Romeo shifted its focus from Bertone to Pininfarina, the design house responsible for the legendary Giulietta Spider. At the time, Bertone was fully engaged with the Fiat 850 Spider project, and Carrozzeria Touring was on the brink of closure. This forced Alfa Romeo to look elsewhere, and the responsibility of creating a new spider fell to Pininfarina, which had a strong pedigree in both styling and aerodynamic innovation.

Pininfarina had already established a reputation for avant-garde design with its “Superflow” series, a lineup of dream cars based on the 1953 Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM chassis. These concept cars showcased futuristic elements like Plexiglas roofs and aerodynamic forms that hinted at the design direction for the future of Alfa Romeo. It was this forward-thinking approach that Battista “Pinin” Farina, the founder of the firm, would bring to the creation of what would eventually become the Duetto.

From Superflow to Duetto: An Evolution in Design

Pininfarina’s work on the Superflow series, particularly the Superflow IV prototype, laid the groundwork for the Duetto’s design. This lineage of cars explored various design features such as rounded rear ends, sculpted sides, and streamlined forms that merged aesthetic beauty with aerodynamic efficiency. The Superflow’s lineage included several key prototypes, such as the Alfa Romeo Giulietta SS Spider, the Giulietta SS Coupé, the Alfa Romeo 2600 Spider Speciale and the Coupé Speciale, that paved the way for the eventual Duetto.

The Spider Speciale Aerodinamica, presented at the 1961, Turin Auto Salon served as a direct precursor to the Duetto. It introduced stylistic elements such as a streamlined body, pop-up headlights, and a fixed rear window that would find their way into the Duetto’s final design. While the Duetto wasn’t an exact replication of these prototypes, it borrowed heavily from their DNA, blending grace with performance in a distinctly Italian way.

Designing the Duetto: Aldo Brovarone and the Pininfarina Team

Under the supervision of Franco Martinengo and the leadership of Aldo Brovarone, Pininfarina’s design team set to work refining the vision for the new spider. The team’s goal was to produce a car that reflected the modern, aerodynamic sensibilities of the era while maintaining the timeless elegance of Alfa Romeo’s past designs. From initial sketches to full-size models, every step of the design process was closely monitored by Battista Pininfarina himself, who personally made numerous adjustments to ensure the car met his high standards of perfection.

The result was a sleek, curvaceous roadster with flowing lines that evoked the sensation of speed even when standing still. The low, wide stance of the car, combined with its elongated front end and tapered rear, gave it an undeniable sense of dynamism and allure. The overall design was both contemporary and timeless, a perfect balance of form and function that has since become synonymous with the Duetto name.

The Launch and Rise to Fame

After rigorous testing, the car, initially named the Spider 1600, was ready for launch. On March 10, 1966, the new Alfa Romeo spider made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the car, it still lacked a definitive name, often referred to as the “Osso di Seppia” (cuttlefish bone) due to its sleek, elongated shape.

The Alfa Romeo Duetto, one of the most iconic roadsters ever produced, represents a confluence of Italian design, engineering prowess, and a unique moment in automotive history. Its design genesis reflects not only the artistic innovation that defined mid-20th century automotive styling but also the commercial and industrial pressures of the era. The car’s journey from conception to international fame is a testament to the creative brilliance of Pininfarina and Alfa Romeo’s bold vision.

Alfa Romeo launched a creative public relations campaign to name the car, engaging the public in a naming contest titled “Spider 1600: Give It a Name.” More than 140,000 suggestions were submitted, and while names like “Pininfarina” and “Pinin” (in honor of the recently deceased Battista Pininfarina) were popular, they were ultimately deemed unsuitable. Instead, the third most popular suggestion, “Duetto,” was chosen, symbolizing a harmonious blend of beauty and power.

However, due to a legal dispute with a chocolate snack producer who held the trademark for “Duetto,” Alfa Romeo was forced to discontinue the name after only 190 units were produced. Nevertheless, the name stuck in popular culture, and to this day, the car is known as the Alfa Romeo Duetto, even though its official name was subsequently changed to Spider 1600.

A Cultural Icon: The Graduate and Beyond

The Alfa Romeo Duetto’s international fame skyrocketed in 1967 when it appeared in the Oscar-winning film *The Graduate*, starring Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft. The car became a symbol of youthful rebellion and freedom, cementing its place in cinematic and automotive history. Over the years, the Duetto has appeared in more than 300 films and television shows, further enhancing its reputation as a cultural icon.

Hyman Ltd

The Duetto’s legacy continued through multiple iterations of the Alfa Romeo Spider, all of which retained the essence of the original design. Though its name changed over the years, the spirit of the Duetto remained alive in every model that followed.

The Alfa Romeo Duetto’s design genesis is a fascinating story of collaboration, innovation, and resilience. From its roots in the commercial success of the Giulia to the creative genius of Pininfarina’s design team, the Duetto stands as a testament to the art of Italian automotive design. Even after more than half a century, the Duetto continues to be celebrated for its beauty, elegance, and enduring appeal, making it a timeless masterpiece in the world of cars.