Italian coachbuilt with French crystal
Just 12 cars planned
The latest from coachbuilder turned car builder Ares Design is a 1950’s styled grand tourer with an interior trimmed in French crystal. Limited to just 12, the Wami Lalique Spyder promises the styling of days gone by with modern performance and luxury.
Ares Design was founded by Dany Bahar, shortly after he left Lotus Cars, and they started out restyling and refitting existing models before expanding its focus to build the DeTomaso-inspired Panther and then the mid-engine S1 supercar. The latest goes more heavily on the retro styling, though the release doesn’t mention powertrain or underpinnings details.
The digital reveal showcases a model with a nose that’s very reminiscent of 1950s GT cars like the 195S and 212 Inter, though the large grille and upright nose was a common feature of the time. The rear view is far more Cobra-like, including the bumper bars, though inspiration clearly comes from a variety of older models. Wire wheels and two small roll bars complete the exterior look.
An interior fitted by luxury crystal maker Lalique, hence their inclusion in the name, provides detailing including crystal embellishments on the center console, doors, and throughout the interior and there is an oak veneer for the dashboard and its classically-styled gauges.
Bahar says that “owners will be able to relive the romance of travel that is synonymous with the Côte D’Azur and the Amalfi Coast of the 1950s in a beautifully adorned masterpiece.” We think the cars are more likely to be looked at and parked in front of hotels and cha
teaus than actually driven. Order books for the model are open now.
