A man out of Australia by the name of Paul Halstead is developing a wild hypercar he refers to as a ‘Hyperod’. alstead has a wealth of experience in the local automotive industry and was the man behind the Giocattolo Group B, an Alfa Romeo Sprint-bodied car built in Australia in the 1980s featuring a Holden V8, of which just 15 examples were produced.
Fast forward to 2020 and Halstead recently
shared some sketches, images and details of his new project with Car Advice.
Dubbed the Giocattolo Marcella, the car features a carbon fiber chassis and a
wheelbase identical to the Lamborghini Aventador. Halstead considers the car a
‘hyperod’ because it will have links to American Hot Rod history, but unlike
traditional hot rods, it will be mechanically sophisticated.
Powering the Marcella will be a W16 engine
that is made up of two 7.0-liter Chevrolet LS7 V8s leaned over 45 degrees.
Halstead says this configuration allows for a very low center of gravity while
also producing 1,400 hp. Mated to this almighty engine is a six-speed
sequential transmission and a limited-slip differential. The engine and
transaxle also acts as a fully stressed member of the chassis and supports all
the rear suspension components.
Other technical highlights of the vehicle
include AP six-piston calipers and a three seat layout just like the McLaren
F1. Interestingly, ex-McLaren F1 engineer Barry Lock is involved heavily in the
project. It will also lack a roof and be so low that it doesn’t require doors –
you will simply step over the sills. The current plan calls for the Giocattolo
Marcella to be unveiled at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in July 2022.
