Concept of the Week

The specially commissioned Sport Speciale combines old-world looks with cutting-edge technology

Old Meets New in Bespoke Racer

By Stuart Schwartzapfel

Maybe you can't judge a classic sports car by its body after all. Despite the Sport Speciale's beautiful vintage design cues, this voluptuous roadster is actually a brand new car with modern underpinnings. It is, however, a one-of-a-kind concept vehicle designed and hand built by The Creative Workshop, a Florida specialty manufacturer.

The vehicle's handcrafted aluminum body draws inspiration from famed European race cars of the late 1950s and early 1960s: the legendary Ferrari TR59/60, Aston Martin DBR1, and Maserati 450S. Vintage design aside, the Sport Speciale is high tech, with a BMW-built, 6-liter, V12 engine that produces 450 hp. The vehicle features heavy duty racing brakes from well-known high-performance supplier Brembo and Wilwood.

The Verdict: Vintage charm with modern reliability.

Stuart Schwartzapfel is a regular contributor to BusinessWeek.com. He has studied the automotive marketplace and works as an advertising and marketing strategist for major manufacturers. He does not write about any car brands for which he currently works.

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