Designed and built in Italy, the Maserati-powered Antas ('Eagle' in Etruscan) V8 GT is a throwback to 1930s styling and 1960s handbuilt production methods.

The Antas project is based on an in-depth study of the stylistic evolution of the Italian automobile of the first years of the 1930s to the end of the 1960s; the golden era in which elements of style were created and developed that even today put their imprint on the most beautiful lines of automobiles of the world.

The first design drafts were done on paper: Designer Faralli first sketched it in 1:1 scale, then traced the final lines.

Nothing was developed on computer; everything came from the heart, from the imagination and the capable hands of experts. From there, it went to the construction process, and not even here computer-managed machines were involved.

The construction process is similar to the "Superleggera" one used by Carozzeria Touring in the '50s and '60s, made most famous by the Aston Martin DB4. A latticework of small tubes following the shape of the body is laid onto a steel box frame. The aluminium body is then hand-worked onto the tubular framework thus producing a light but strong structure.

Preparation and sanding are done by the expert hands of artisans who prepare the body for painting - and this is the only time when really modern products are used.

On delivery, Antas comes equipped with a case covered in blue velvet bearing a silver chassis plate; inside are a photographic album and a DVD documenting the construction of the vehicle. For further information please visit www.progettofem.it.

Text: Classic Driver
Photos: F&M