New Age Countach in a rare color
It was in August 2021—50 years after its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show—when Lamborghini unveiled the Countach LPI 800-4, a 21st-century supercar limited to just 112 units and powered by the Sián's 780 hp hybrid powertrain. Exactly 112 examples were produced as a nod to the Countach's internal project code from 1974. Guided by the motto "Inspired by the past, designed for the future," this modern-era Countach pays homage to its predecessor through features like the longitudinally mounted mid-engine V12, scissor doors, and an exterior design—devoid of a fixed rear spoiler — that echoes the first Countach series; yet it incorporates cutting-edge technology, including the hybrid powertrain with supercapacitor, all-wheel drive, and active rear-wheel steering. The example offered here by Mechatronik is one of only five finished in the stunning "Luci del Bosco" color — a deep brown hue originally available for the Miura that complements the car's cream leather interior exceptionally well. Following its initial delivery to Switzerland in 2022, this jaw-dropping LPI 800-4 arrived at Mechatronik in 2023 and is now available for sale with a delivery mileage of just 140 kilometers.
A Matra straight from the barn
Matra had always been famous and loved for car designs that bucked the mainstream trend. In 1967 the French brand continued this tradition with the 530 – a designation chosen in reference to the R530 short-range missile produced by Matra's aerospace division. While the successor to the Matra Djet was hardly a potential beauty-contest winner—not least due to its somewhat ungainly pop-up headlights — it was both innovative and practical for everyday use. The mid-mounted 1.7-liter V4 derived from the Ford Taunus was a reliable workhorse, and the composite body with removable Targa roof designed by former Simca designer Philippe Guédon was technologically advanced. The model shown here was first registered on August 16, 1972, to its original owner in Poitiers. The most recent holder acquired the car in 1977 after returning from Africa and kept it for the next 49 years. As a barn find that has remained true to its original state, this Matra 530 represents an ambitious yet rewarding restoration project. While mechanical work was recently performed to keep it running, the chassis, body, and upholstery require significant attention. Once the restoration is completed, the team behind it will have breathed new life into one of the most unique and endearing models in French automotive history.
Beyond a Carrera GT
During the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, this very showstopper took center stage at the stand of Bavarian tuning powerhouse RUF — one of only 30 CTR3s produced and one of just seven in the Clubsport specification. The CTR3 was the first model developed entirely in-house by RUF, featuring an aluminum spaceframe chassis and a Kevlar/carbon-fiber body, propelled by a 3.8-liter flat-six boosted to 766 hp via twin KKK turbochargers. The result is a 0–96 mph sprint in just three seconds and an otherworldly top speed of 236 mph. Developed in collaboration with Canadian engineering firm Multimatic, the CTR3 bears a resemblance to the Porsche Carrera GT in its proportions and some details, though it is not directly based on it.
The CTR3 Clubsport is the sharpened version of the CTR3, instantly recognizable by its large rear wing and additional aerodynamic aids. In addition to the sequential five-speed gearbox, the Clubsport also offered customers the option of a PDK transmission with paddle shifters for the first time.
This particular CTR3 is finished in Oak Green Metallic over a black leather interior with green tartan seat inserts—a stylish blend of motorsport flair and brand heritage that remains firmly focused on the driver. With just 1,013 miles on the odometer, this Clubsport is set to cross the block at the RM Sotheby's Monterey auction in August, accompanied by a RUF certificate of authenticity, service records, and an original CTR3 sales brochure.
The best Maserati Biturbo was another Ghibli
19 years after the original Maserati Ghibli by Giorgetto Giugiaro and in the dying phase of the de Tomaso era, the second Ghibli appeared in 1992. This time as a notchback coupe with two doors and four seats, pleasantly styled by Marcello Gandini and powered by a two-litre twin-turbocharged V6 pumping out a healthy 310 hp. Offered as a private sale, this 1994 example in Metallic Black was owned by the same holder for 20 years and part of a well-known Maserati collection. It was serviced annually by a Belgian Maserati specialist, always enjoyed the comfort of a heated garage and has only reeled off 20,000 kilometers (12,400 miles) since the last engine overhaul in 2013. The nicely patinated interior exudes discreet luxury with its generous wood inlays and an oval analogue clock. Only 2,200 units of the Ghibli left the Modenese factory by 1997 – which makes this best and most sophisticated evolution of the entire Biturbo family of cars desirable not only for fans of the trident brand. And with a top speed of 265 km/h or 165 mph, it may be very fast, too.
A Goddess of the French automotive pantheon
Already a standard "Déesse" (Goddess) was —and remains— a legend of French automotive history. Yet a DS 21 converted into a cabriolet by the famous coachbuilder Chapron belongs in the pantheon of Gallic automotive greats. Built in April 1967 and finished in Coral Red over a beige leather interior, this Citroën underwent a comprehensive, multi-stage restoration during the 2010s, commissioned by its long-term owner. The process included repainting the body in its original color, polishing all chrome trim, installing a completely new leather interior and carpeting, and refurbishing many internal components of the 109 hp, matching-numbers 2.1-liter four-cylinder engine. Finding such an authentic, fully roadworthy Chapron-converted works DS cabriolet is a rare stroke of luck. The vinyl and fabric roof is also in perfect condition, meaning nothing stands in the way of a delightful inaugural foray into the Champagne hills — since the car can be viewed near Reims.
