Just imagine what could have been

Have you ever been stuck pondering about what car should be existing. Or perhaps a certain car you were very excited for, actually disappointed. You start to wonder what sort of changes you would make to the engine, bodywork or philosophy. After all, it is nice to dream about what’s possible.

I’ve had some moments to think about what kind of car I wish would exist, from the powertain to the styling. I like design cues that pay tribute to historic cars. I think there’s a story to tell, there’s an element of familiarity which is just welcoming.

Here’s a very short list of imaginary cars that I wish existed. I’ll do more fantasy lists as time progresses.

1. Porsche Cayman RS

The Cayman R (source: https://bit.ly/3hqc0tL)

This car was very instrumental to Porsches success. It was placed at the entry level end of the scale and it had a layout that was slightly different to the traditional 911’s rear engine. The potential for the platform was always present and, at first, it seemed like Porsche were holding it back. Making sure that the cheaper car isn’t faster or better. The mid engined Porker finally got what it needed in the shape of the Cayman R and Boxster Spyder. Then followed the GT4 models to really demonstrate how established it has become. But what about the car I’m imagining?

Start out with a bog standard Cayman S. Now at this point you’re thinking : “why not a GTS 4.0?” Well I think that’s too easy and the GT4 already exists, so it’s a little redundant. In the interest of making something unique, let’s stick to the 2.5 flat four. Strip out the interior, reduce the sound insulation. Mate it to either the PDK (with improved software), or a manual 6 speed. Make some changes to the suspension to accommodate the minor changes. A no-nonsense, back to basics approach would be a very refreshing prospect. I think about a machine like this and it would be a joyful experience on the road or track.

2. Lamborghini GT cruiser

The Estoque Concept (source: https://bit.ly/3yMNtF9)

Lamborghini’s success over the last 2 decades is something you just have to admire. The Gallardo was something of a game changer for Lamborghini because it made the supercar with an exciting engine a more realistic prospect for customers. It brought in new customers and also helped grow its following. The Urus has only taken that success further. The first road car from Lambo (the 350) was a relaxed laid back grand tourer. At times I ask myself why they haven’t revisited the luxury grand tourer. I believe it would have been a hit, especially since Lamborghini drivers love putting miles on their cars. The engine? They could have sourced the 4.0 V8 found in the Urus, shoehorn the engine to give it a front mid layout. Combine the engine with a 8 speed ZF auto. A car like this would compete with the likes of the Bentley Continental, Aston DB11 or Ferrari Roma. If it were to exist, it would probably share parts with the likes of the Bentley Continental and the Porsche Panamera.

3. BMW M8 V12

The M8 (source: https://bit.ly/3jXjzcS)

When BMW resurrected the 8 series, I was very excited. Finally felt like BMW were turning a new corner and based on creations like the M2, it felt as if we were in for something unique. However, the car was launched and the response to it has been, rather lukewarm. The biggest problem of the M8 is that it shares a lot of components with lower tier models, yet commands a high price. It competes with cars that already outdo the M8 based on the badge alone. So perhaps rather than a glorified M5, BMW should’ve approached it differently.

The M8 prototype (source: https://bit.ly/3hJMjD9)

Perhaps bmw should’ve brought out the big guns and get their engineers to rework the N73 V12 from the M760Li. I mean, if you’re going to bring back a legend that didn’t end up seeing production, why not go all out with a V12? Turn it into an ‘S’ engine. Combine that great 12 cylinder to a 8 speed ZF with improved software. Weight might be a complaint, but M cars are essentially luxury limos anyway, and I’m certain buyers are okay with trading more cylinders for weight. That might’ve solidified it’s status and would’ve probably made more of a statement to the auto world.

For now, those are cars that spring to my mind whenever my mind wonders. There are many more to be imagined.

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