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10 Rare BMWs with Italian Design You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

While BMW is celebrated for its impeccable German engineering, some of its most unique creations have emerged from collaborations with renowned Italian design houses. These partnerships have resulted in stunningly rare cars that combine the precision of German performance with the flair and artistry of Italian styling. From experimental concepts to luxurious grand tourers, these lesser-known BMWs offer a captivating look into the brand’s design diversity. Here are 10 extraordinary BMW models with Italian designs that have slipped under the radar.

Turin’s Automotive Industry – A Journey Through Time

When we think of cars today, we often focus on sleek designs, electric vehicles, and cutting-edge technology. But to truly understand how far the automotive world has come, we need to look back to cities like Turin, where the roots of the industry run deep. Turin’s automotive industry is more than just a production hub—it’s a reflection of the city’s history, culture, and identity.

18 Modern Coachbuilt Cars Every Collector Must Own

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.

The Alfa Romeo Duetto Design Story

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.

The History of Italian Coachbuilders

Italian coachbuilders have long been the pioneers of automotive design, known for blending art and engineering in a way that no other country has replicated. From iconic brands like Pininfarina and Bertone to lesser-known but equally significant names, Italy’s carrozzerie (coachbuilders) have shaped the world of automotive elegance and innovation.

The Bertone GB110 World Debut at Top Marques Monaco

The Bertone GB110 represents a bold new chapter in automotive excellence, unveiled with much fanfare at the Top Marques Monaco event. As Bertone’s first foray into the hypercar realm, the GB110 combines cutting-edge technology with unparalleled craftsmanship. Limited to just 33 units, each GB110 is a testament to the brand’s commitment to exclusivity and personalization. The vehicle’s sleek, aerodynamic design is complemented by a state-of-the-art twin-turbocharged 5.2L V10 engine, delivering a staggering 1,124 horsepower. This groundbreaking hypercar also boasts an innovative approach to sustainability, utilizing fuel derived from plastic waste. With its fusion of performance, elegance, and environmental consciousness, the GB110 marks a triumphant return for Bertone, celebrating over a century of automotive heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern engineering.

The Fiat Bravo Concept Cars

The Fiat Bravo Concept cars, unveiled in 1996, showcased the creative prowess of Italian coachbuilders invited by Fiat to reinterpret their new model. Following the tradition set by previous Fiat designs like the Cinquecento and Punto, the Turin Motor Show served as a vibrant platform for these innovations. Out of 25 concept cars debuting at the event, 17 were based on the new Fiat models. Among these, ten were ‘official’ Fiat-sponsored concepts displayed as a group, while seven represented independent, unofficial interpretations by various coachbuilders.

The Villa d’Este Elegance Competition Showcases Citroën Camargue from ASI Bertone Collection

From May 24 to 26, the BMW Group Classic and the Grand Hotel Villa d’Este will host the legendary Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The most spectacular cars from different eras and around the world will compete in various categories to win prestigious awards. Among these are the coveted BMW Group Trophy awarded by the Jury, the traditional Coppa d’Oro based on public votes, the Design Award for concept cars and prototypes, and the special ASI Trophy for the best-preserved post-war vehicle.

The Timeless Hexagonal Vision of the Lamborghini Marzal

The Lamborghini Marzal, a masterpiece of automotive innovation, emerges as a beacon of creativity in the dynamic landscape of automotive history. Crafted during the vibrant era of the 1960s, this visionary concept car, conceived by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, stands as a testament to the boundless potential of design and engineering. With its avant-garde aesthetics and groundbreaking technology, the Marzal captured the imagination of audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive industry.