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Every now and then, the automotive world is treated to something extraordinary, and the Invictus GT is exactly that—a beautiful blend of classic design and modern engineering. Recently unveiled to the world, the Invictus GT is the result of a decade of dedication by a single individual and has left car enthusiasts in awe of its craftsmanship and nostalgic aesthetic.
The Invictus GT was first reported by PistonHeads, and it has quickly caught the attention of vintage car lovers everywhere. The car’s stunning design draws direct inspiration from the iconic sports cars of the 1960s, while under the hood, it rests on the bones of a Series 2 Lotus Exige S. This choice of platform is crucial, as the Lotus Exige S offers the perfect foundation for the car's nimble handling and lightweight structure. The result is a car that not only looks like a 60s classic but also drives with the precision and performance of a modern sports car.
Though visually striking, the Invictus is much more than just a pretty face. It is the culmination of a painstaking 10-year process spearheaded by Iker Lopez Totorika, the vehicle's designer. Windsor Coachworks, a bespoke car manufacturer established in 2018, brought Totorika’s vision to life. This was no small task; the team first created a 1:1 scale foam model of the car before dedicating an astonishing 12,500 hours to refining the details and ensuring that every panel was as close to perfect as possible.
The vehicle’s design is heavily influenced by the De Tomaso Sport 1000 and the Lola T70, with many drawing comparisons to the stunning De Tomaso P72. The design pays homage to the golden era of sports car design, evoking memories of 1960s racing legends. With its sweeping lines, low-slung profile, and retro cues, the Invictus is undeniably reminiscent of this classic period.
At the heart of the Invictus lies the Lotus Exige S’s impressive supercharged Toyota 2ZZ-GE engine. This four-cylinder powerplant generates a robust 220 horsepower, which, when combined with the car’s lightweight construction, gives the Invictus exhilarating performance. If the weight of the vehicle remains close to that of the Exige, the Invictus could match the original Lotus’ 0 to 60 mph time of 4.1 seconds, delivering a driving experience that’s both thrilling and true to its racing roots.
As the Invictus makes its rounds at car shows and turns heads on the open road, the question of its future remains. Will it be a one-off masterpiece destined to remain a unique collector's item? Or will this remarkable vehicle see further production? The owner has hinted at the possibility of expanding production, though much will depend on demand.
With the prospect of more units being built comes the potential for innovation and development. Increased production could pave the way for more powerful versions of the car or even the introduction of alternative powertrains, such as electric conversions. While some enthusiasts may balk at the idea, electric drivetrain swaps—such as those from Tesla Model S or Model 3—are growing in popularity. While the idea of an electric Invictus might sound controversial, it could push the car even further into the future without sacrificing its classic styling.
Regardless of where the future leads for the Invictus GT, its arrival marks an exciting moment in the automotive world. It’s a tribute to both the past and the future, combining the beauty of 1960s design with modern engineering and craftsmanship. The car gods have indeed smiled upon us with the Invictus GT, and enthusiasts everywhere will be watching closely to see what the future holds for this remarkable sports car.