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A Closer Look25 January 2024 by Andreas 79 Viewed

The Lykan HyperSport: An Automotive Jewel of the Middle East

Lykan HyperSport

In the realm of hypercars, the Lykan HyperSport stands out as a true masterpiece, not only for its jaw-dropping performance but also for the luxurious and opulent features that make it a symbol of automotive exclusivity. Manufactured by W Motors, a pioneering automobile company based in Beirut, Lebanon, the Lykan HyperSport made its debut at the 2013 Qatar Motor Show, marking a significant milestone as the first supercar produced in the Middle East.

Exquisite Design and Limited Production

The Lykan HyperSport, designed by the visionary entrepreneur Ralph Debbas, reflects a perfect blend of innovation and luxury. With a limited production run of only seven units, each priced at an astonishing 3.1 million euros, the exclusivity of this hypercar is heightened by the incorporation of precious stones and metals into its design. Notably, the front lights feature titanium blades adorned with 420 diamonds, adding an extra layer of extravagance.

Lykan HyperSport

Handcrafted in Italy

Built under the meticulous guidance of StudioTorino, the Lykan HyperSport comes to life through the skilled hands of artisans at Carrozzeria Viotti in Torino, Italy. This collaboration with international partners and suppliers, including Magna Steyr, Ruf Automobile, and the University of Tokyo, ensures that the hypercar not only meets but exceeds the highest standards in both technical and luxury aspects.

Power and Performance

The heart of the Lykan HyperSport is a robust 3.7 L twin-turbocharged flat-6 engine developed by Ruf Automobile. This powerhouse generates a claimed maximum power output of 740 hp at 7,100 rpm and an impressive 960 N⋅m of torque at 4,000 rpm. With a mid-rear mounted engine and a choice between a seven-speed automatic or a six-speed automatic-sequential transmission, the HyperSport delivers a thrilling driving experience that matches its stunning aesthetics.

Performance is further enhanced by forged aluminum wheels, Pirelli P Zeros, and ventilated ceramic composite disc brakes. The manufacturer boasts a top speed of 395 km/h (245 mph) and acceleration times of 2.9 seconds for 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) and 9.6 seconds for 0–200 km/h (0–124 mph). While independent tests are lacking, a demonstration in Dubai showcased the impressive capabilities of this hypercar.

Luxury Beyond Compare

Inside the Lykan HyperSport, the extravagance continues. Gold stitching on the seats and an interactive holographic display with gesture controls elevate the driving experience to new heights. The patented “reverse dihedral doors” add a touch of uniqueness, further emphasizing the exclusivity of this hypercar.

Iconic Appearances

The Lykan HyperSport achieved iconic status through its appearance in the film Furious 7, where it played a starring role. While some were purpose-built for the movie, the hypercar’s on-screen presence solidified its place in automotive history. The Abu Dhabi Police even added a Lykan HyperSport to their fleet, making it one of the most expensive police cars in the world.

Beyond the silver screen, the Lykan HyperSport has found its place in various video games, including Project CARS, Asphalt series, Forza Horizon and Motorsport series, Top Drives, and CSR2 Racing. Its virtual presence only adds to the mystique of this extraordinary automobile.

Conclusion

The Lykan HyperSport, with its limited production, stunning design, and remarkable performance, is a testament to the Middle East’s capability to compete at the pinnacle of the automotive world. As a blend of cutting-edge technology and opulent luxury, it continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts worldwide, cementing its place as an icon in the realm of hypercars. The Lykan HyperSport is not just a car; it’s a symbol of automotive artistry and a testament to the vision of W Motors and its founder, Ralph Debbas.

the author

Andreas

Italian classic car enthusiast with German roots. Renowned as a respected figure in the classic car community, he serves as a jury member at various international concours d'elegance, including the Classic Gala Schwetzingen and Mantova. As a content creator, Andreas passionately shares his profound knowledge and appreciation for vintage automobiles. His heart beats for cars designed by Giovanni Michelotti, showcasing his discerning taste and dedication to preserving the timeless elegance of automotive history.

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Prince Skyline Sport Allemano

The end of World War II left Japan in a difficult position, having to transition its industries from military production to civilian use. This challenge was particularly tough since Japan, like Germany and Italy, was a defeated nation. However, Japan’s ability to adapt would set the stage for one of the most exciting collaborations in automotive history.

Among the companies responsible for this transformation were Tachikawa and Nakajima, two of Japan’s leading aviation companies. Tasked with shifting to civilian production, Tachikawa (later known as Tokyo Electric Cars) began building electric cars in 1947. Their first model, the Tama, was followed by a slightly larger Junior, and eventually, the Senior.

In the early 1950s, Japan’s evolving automotive landscape saw a shift from electric-powered cars to gasoline engines. By the end of 1951, the Tama Senior was fitted with a 1.5-liter petrol engine, a shift that led to the creation of the Prince Sedan in 1952. This was the beginning of Prince Motor Company, which was named in honor of the official investiture of Crown Prince Akihito.

In 1954, Fuji Precision Machinery (formerly Nakajima) acquired Prince Motor Company and embarked on producing automobiles under the Prince brand. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in Japan’s automotive history.

The Birth of the Skyline and the Search for European Inspiration

By the late 1950s, Prince Motor Company had gained recognition in Japan for its innovative vehicles, such as the Prince Sedan and the Skyline (introduced in 1957). However, the company sought to take their vehicles to a new level—focusing on luxury, performance, and innovation. To do so, they looked westward, to Europe, for inspiration.

Europe was home to some of the most prestigious automotive brands, and Fuji Precision Machinery executives wanted a vehicle that could rival the best of Europe. This aspiration led them to Italy, where they arranged a pivotal meeting at the Salone dell’Automobile (Turin Motor Show) with Carrozzeria Allemano, a respected coachbuilder with ties to Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti.

The collaboration between Japan and Italy led to the creation of the Prince Skyline Sport, a car that would redefine the trajectory of Japan’s automotive design. This groundbreaking partnership merged Japanese engineering with Italian artistry, setting a new standard for style and innovation. The success of this collaboration inspired other Japanese manufacturers to partner with Italy’s legendary design houses, creating some of the most iconic vehicles of the 1960s.

Mazda, for example, worked with Bertone, enlisting the renowned Giorgetto Giugiaro to design the Familia, a compact car that skillfully blended European elegance with Japanese practicality. In 1963, Daihatsu teamed up with Vignale to produce the Compagno, along with its sporty variants: the Sport Spider and Coupé; which reflected a uniquely Italian flair. The following year, Pininfarina collaborated with Datsun to craft a sleek new look for the Bluebird, a move that helped the car gain global recognition. By 1965, Isuzu joined forces with Ghia to design the Bellett II, a concept car that showcased bold and forward-thinking design elements.

These partnerships went beyond aesthetics; they helped establish a global identity for Japanese automakers. By working with Italy’s most respected design houses, Japanese manufacturers gained fresh perspectives on styling while enhancing their reputation for innovation and quality. These collaborations not only transformed the appearance of Japanese cars but also elevated their appeal to international markets, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

A Handcrafted Masterpiece

Under the direction of Giovanni Michelotti, one of Italy’s most respected automotive designers, the Skyline Sport would be an example of high-end craftsmanship. Initially, the first series of prototypes were built by Carrozzeria Allemano, known for its hand-built bodies. Later, a second series of production would be completed by Carrozzeria Michelotti, adding the final touch to this luxury vehicle.

The Skyline Sport was designed as a two-door coupe with sleek, flowing lines and a sporty yet elegant appearance. Michelotti’s design incorporated canted headlights, angled downward at the inside corners—a feature seen in other high-end vehicles like the Lincoln Continental and Buick during the late 1950s and early 1960s.

At the heart of the Skyline Sport was a 1.9-liter GB-4 engine that generated 94 horsepower, giving it a top speed of 150 km/h. Despite weighing in at 1,350 kg, the car’s handling was remarkably smooth, thanks to a double-wishbone front suspension and a De Dion rear axle, technologies that were innovative for its time.

The Prince Skyline Sport: A Bold Statement

The Skyline Sport debuted at the 1960 Turin Motor Show, where it garnered international attention for its bold design and luxury features. Available in both a coupe and a convertible version, it was a striking example of Italian design combined with Japanese engineering. Its clean lines, striking front grille, and eye-catching details made it a standout at the show.

But its beauty was more than skin deep. The Skyline Sport was a car that delivered in terms of both aesthetics and performance. With its meticulously crafted body, luxurious interior, and advanced suspension, the car offered an exceptional driving experience that rivaled the finest European vehicles of the era.

The Prince Skyline Sport made its official appearance in Japan at the 1962 Tokyo Motor Show, where it was met with great enthusiasm due to its elegant lines and striking design. With its sleek coupe and convertible versions, the car showcased a perfect blend of Italian craftsmanship and Japanese engineering, captivating the crowd with its sophisticated aesthetic. However, the Skyline Sport came with a hefty price tag of 1.85 million yen, more than twice the cost of a standard sedan. This steep price limited its appeal in Japan’s domestic market, making it a rare and exclusive collector’s item. Despite its high price, the car gained significant exposure through its prominent feature in Toho films, strategically marketed to heighten its status as a luxury icon.

A Historic Collaboration and Legacy

The Prince Skyline Sport is historically significant as the first collaboration between an Italian designer and a Japanese automaker, setting a precedent for future cross-cultural partnerships in the automotive world. It was a testament to the universal appeal of Italian design and the skill of Michelotti and Carrozzeria Allemano. The Skyline Sport bridged cultural and geographical boundaries, bringing together the best of both worlds to create a truly exceptional car.

Though the Skyline Sport never achieved high sales numbers, with only 60 to 200 units produced, its impact on the automotive industry cannot be overstated. It paved the way for later models like the Skyline GT-R and helped establish the Prince Laurel, another model that would become iconic in Japan.

The Skyline Sport also marked the beginning of Prince Motor Company’s shift toward luxury vehicles. This emphasis on quality and refinement would continue after Nissan’s acquisition of Prince Motors in 1966, with the Skyline Sport serving as a precursor to future generations of luxury cars from Japan.

The Prince Skyline Sport was more than just a car—it was a statement of innovation, craftsmanship, and the power of international collaboration. The partnership between Giovanni Michelotti, Carrozzeria Allemano, and Prince Motor Company created a vehicle that showcased the best of both Italian design and Japanese engineering.

Though limited in production and availability, the Skyline Sport remains an important part of automotive history. It stands as a symbol of the potential for global partnerships to create groundbreaking designs, and its legacy continues to inspire the automotive world today.

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