1966 Bizzarrini Manta

The Bizzarrini Manta 1966 is a unique and rare car that was originally designed by the Italian automotive engineer Giotto Bizzarrini. This car is a one-off prototype which was showcased at the 1968 Turin Motor Show. The Manta was designed to be a combination of aesthetics and engineering, a car that can be used for both racing and regular driving. It is a unique blend of vintage style with modern engineering, the perfect car for anyone who wants a classic car with modern amenities.

The Bizzarrini Manta 1966 features a central aluminum tubular structure, with fiberglass body panels on top. The car has a length of 4550 mm, a width of 1790 mm, a height of 1150 mm, and a wheelbase of 2500 mm. Powered by a Chevrolet small block V8 engine (327 c.i.D/5.4 litre) mated to a 4-speed manual transmission, this engine delivers a total power output of 350 horsepower, which can propel the car up to a top speed of 180 mph. The Manta can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, which is extraordinarily impressive for a car of its era.

The car features a 4-wheel independent suspension system with front and rear coil springs and dampers, and the brakes are ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing impressive stopping power. The Manta is equipped with a unique air brake which is integrated into the rear bodywork, and it can be actuated with a switch on the dashboard or by the brake pedal. This feature is a nod to Bizzarrini's experience in aircraft engineering, and it gives the car an aerodynamic advantage by increasing its downforce when braking.

The interior of the Bizzarrini Manta 1966 is stunning in its simplicity, with seats wrapped in leather and a dashboard that is clean and uncluttered. The gauge cluster consists of a speedometer, tachometer, and several other gauges that are easy to read. The steering wheel is a classic wooden-rimmed racing-style design. There are no excessive creature comforts, as this car was designed with racing in mind, but the seats are comfortable enough for longer drives. The windows are manual, and the doors open in a scissor-blade type motion, which adds to the uniqueness of the car.

Overall, the Bizzarrini Manta 1966 is a true work of art, with its combination of sleek and classic styling combined with modern engineering to make a car with unrivaled performance. With only one ever produced, it is undoubtedly one of the rarest and most desirable collector's cars in the world. Its history and technical superiority are impressive, and it would be an incredible addition to any car enthusiast's collection.