1961 Dele (Croatia) - AllCarIndex

Delimir Blažić, hailing from Rijeka, Croatia, demonstrated the nation's ingenuity in the automotive sector with his creation, the DELE 800, in 1961. Constructed atop a Zastava 600 chassis, this distinctive GT exemplified Croatia's innovative spirit. The DELE 800 boasted dimensions of 3750 x 1320 x 1112 mm, with a body meticulously crafted from sheet steel by Delimir himself, while aluminum was utilized for the doors, engine cover, and trunk. The engine, sourced from the 21st-century Maja company in Rakovica, underwent extensive modifications, including the installation of a larger carburetor, alternative valves, a new exhaust system, and a redesigned crankshaft. These enhancements propelled the engine's output to 42 horsepower from a displacement of 767 cc, positioned at the rear of the vehicle. To enhance safety, Delimir incorporated front disc brakes into the design.