Sbarro GT1 1999

Tsukishima · Aug 23, 2014

Sbarro GT1 '99

Franco Sbarro, who is truly an expert car constructor, put the GT1 amongst his most spectacular creations. The car was unveiled in June 1999 as a tribute to the Mercedes victory at Le Mans.

Naturally this car uses Mercedes components wherever possible: although Mercedes had no part in the car construction except for the engine. Franco and his students at Grandson chose the 7.4 litre V8 Merc’s power plant which develops 450 HP at 5800 rpm and 451,4 ft-lb peak torque at 3800 rpm. A whole lot of power to move 1350 kg.

The most interesting technical aspect of the GT1 is the use of Sbarro’s dual-frame, patented in 1991. This system consists of three joined longitudinal members, in this dual frame concept, the engine is considered a stressed member of the frame. A simple but brilliant idea, the polyester monocoque body is attached to the frame by three essentially rubber and metal blocks. These dampen vibrations from the chassis making a much quieter and more comfortable ride without affecting the handling of the car.

Wheels are Anteras: 18 inch upfront and 19 inch on the rear. Shod with Michelin 245/35 and 365/35 respectively. Huge 4-pot callipers grab the vented discs to provide the necessary stopping power. Franco designed the unique exhaust system himself.

The radiator grille drives air upward to create downforce on the bonnet and air downward to cool the brakes. There is a small NACA duct at the base of the windscreen. The tail, topped by a large competition spoiler, has integral Mercedes S-Class rear lights (I think!). The external design, very Sbarro, leaves one in no doubt that every inch of this car is inspired by competition.

The cockpit although minimalist is warm and welcoming, but only for two. The upward swinging doors, reminiscent of Bertone, are a real crowd puller. The seats, in two-tone alcantra, are an integral part of the monocoque and therefore fixed: so the aluminium pedals are electrically adjustable.The LED instrument pack, taken partly from Mercedes was specially made for the GT1.

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