Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
The Honda Argento Vivo concept car by Pininfarina.
The Honda Argento Vivo, unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, is a perfect example of what can happen when cutting-edge engineering meets inspired design. This stunning two-seater convertible, born from a collaboration between Honda and Pininfarina, was a showstopper from the moment it was unveiled, captivating enthusiasts with its innovative features and breathtaking aesthetics. At its heart, the Argento Vivo featured an advanced aluminum space frame, offering lightweight strength and rigidity. Its rear-wheel-drive layout promised engaging performance, while the standout feature was a retractable hardtop. Operated by electric motors and hydraulic actuators, this futuristic roof system added both convenience and drama, perfectly complementing the car’s forward-thinking design. Visually, the Argento Vivo was unlike anything else on the road. Its brushed aluminum exterior gave it a striking, almost liquid-metal appearance, which inspired its evocative name: Argento Vivo, Italian for “live silver” or “mercury.” The soft, flowing lines and dynamic design language created a sense of motion, even when the car was standing still, showcasing Pininfarina’s mastery of form and function. The Argento Vivo’s appeal extended far beyond the show floor, catching the eye of the Sultan of Brunei, known for his impressive collection of rare and bespoke cars. Fascinated by the concept, the Sultan commissioned Pininfarina to create four unique versions based on the Mercedes-Benz SL73 AMG R129 platform. These special Argento Vivo models were equipped with a powerful 7.3-liter V12 engine producing 565 horsepower, merging high-performance engineering with unparalleled design. Each car reportedly cost over $1 million, making them exclusive in every sense. Two of these exceptional vehicles made their way to the Sultan’s collection, where they remain in pristine condition. The other two were left unfinished, with one briefly appearing on eBay in Belgium in 2009 and the other vanishing into mystery.
Chassis
Everyone has heard stories about the Sultan of Brunei’s immense and almost mythical car collection, but few details have ever been confirmed. Shrouded in secrecy, this legendary fleet of rare and bespoke automobiles has fascinated enthusiasts for decades. Recently, a handful of insider photos emerged online, offering a glimpse into the hidden treasure trove.
Pininfarina, the venerable Italian design house, has left an indelible mark on the automotive world with its avant-garde concept cars. From the iconic Ferrari Modulo to the futuristic Pininfarina X, each creation embodies the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and innovation. In this exploration, we delve into the top 20 greatest concept cars from Pininfarina, celebrating their beauty, performance, and lasting impact.
