top of page

1968 Neri & Bonacini Studio GT Due Litri

  • Writer: Story Cars
    Story Cars
  • May 8, 2022
  • 2 min read

As early as 1966, Neri & Bonacini began development of their very own car. Before this, the pair had rebodied a number of Ferrari chassis, producing the notorious Breadvan and gorgeous Nembo Spyders, but the Studio GT was an all-new design. To Neri & Bonacini, it was the ideal Italian sports car, having small proportions, a mid-mounted lightweight engine and stylish aluminum body.


Called the Studio GT Due Litri, Neri & Bonacini began their project by constructing a sheel-metal tub with a complex lattice-steel structure to support the outer body. Front and rear square tube subframes supported a custom suspension with specially cast uprights. The engine bay had enough room for several different engines.


The initial idea was to use the power plant from the Lancia Flavia V4, but production was ending so several others were tested. These included the Taunus V4 as well as a potent ATS V8.


A plaster body buck was created that formed the shape for many prototypes to follow. The overall lines of the car had sweeping curves and they were not too far from the Lamborghini Miura which was released in the same year.


The first Studio was finished and used for several test configurations. Before the second car was completed, Neri & Bonacini ended their partnership to pursue different ventures. Giorgio Neri went to DeTomaso where he completed the second Studio GT prototype.


The second car was different from the first, featuring electric pop-up headlights, a fully trimmed interior with adequate sound deadening and full bank of instrumentation. The car was used to test several engines, but ended up with the Lancia Flavia V4 which was the original plan for the car.


Working for Road & Track, Peter Coltrin kept in contact with Neri & Bonacini during the build process for the first two cars. At that time the second fully-functioning prototype was for sale as well as everything else needed for series production. Giorgio Neri related he was “Happy that the car came out so well, even if it does no go into production.”


Both the first two cars survive and remarkably the second car is currently in untouched, original condition. It was purchased by John Mastroianni Sr. of Auto Turismo & Sport Ltd. in New York without windows. It has since been refurbished, but not restored. It was displayed in this condition at the 2001 and 2009 Greenwich Concours d’Elegance.


Source: Coltrin, Peter.”Studio GT Due Litri”. Road & Track. October 1968.

Images: oldconceptcars



Comments


Most Recent

Explore Concepts by Category

News

News

Discover the cutting-edge world of concept cars and prototypes in our blog, showcasing the latest innovations and designs that are shaping the future of the automotive industry.

As Seen on TV

As Seen on TV

Explore a collection of rare concept cars and prototypes that have made memorable appearances in movies and TV shows. From iconic classics to futuristic marvels.

Featured

Featured

Story Cars featured articles include in-depth coverage of the rarest concept cars and prototypes.

Bikes

Bikes

Discover the world of concept and prototype motorcycles, featuring new designs and technologies that push the boundaries of riding and innovation.

Trucks

Trucks

Discover a collection of concept trucks and prototypes, showcasing groundbreaking designs and innovations from the past and present that have shaped the future of transportation.

Illustrations

Illustrations

Explore nostalgic illustrations of classic cars, featuring vintage ads, brochures, and educational artwork that capture the design and spirit of cars from the past.

1920s

1920s

Explore the 1920s automotive revolution with groundbreaking concepts, rare prototypes, and iconic designs that defined the Roaring Twenties.

1970s

1970s

Explore the innovative car concepts, prototypes, and rare models of the 1970s, a decade of experimental designs and performance breakthroughs in automotive history.

1980s

1980s

Discover the bold and futuristic car concepts, prototypes, and rare models of the 1980s, a decade defined by cutting-edge technology and sleek design innovations.

2010s

2010s

Explore the groundbreaking car concepts, prototypes, and rare models from the 2010s, highlighting futuristic designs and advancements that shaped the automotive industry.

For Sale

For Sale

View the rarest vehicles for sale on the market! We bring concepts, movie cars, and other exotic vehicles to the light from eBay, Facebook, dealership websites, and other marketplaces.

1930s

1930s

Dive into the 1930s, where automotive elegance meets innovation, showcasing rare prototypes, stunning concepts, and timeless pre-war masterpieces.

1960s

1960s

Discover the groundbreaking car concepts, prototypes, and rare models from the 1960s, showcasing bold designs and engineering feats that defined an era of automotive evolution.

1990s

1990s

Explore the iconic car concepts, prototypes, and rare models of the 1990s, featuring groundbreaking designs and innovations that shaped the future of automotive history.

1940s

1940s

Discover the groundbreaking concepts, prototypes, and rare cars of the 1940s that redefined automotive innovation and design in a post-war era of ingenuity.

1800s

1800s

Explore the pioneering 1800s, where the first automobiles emerged, blending engineering marvels and visionary concepts that shaped the future of transportation.

1910s

1910s

Explore the 1910s era of concepts, prototypes, and rare cars, showcasing groundbreaking designs that defined the early evolution of automotive innovation.

1900s

1900s

Discover the origins of automotive history with 1900s cars, featuring pioneering concepts, prototypes, and rare models that shaped the future of transportation.

1950s

1950s

Explore the innovative concepts, prototypes, and rare cars of the 1950s, showcasing the bold designs and technological advances that shaped the automotive industry.

Gallery

Gallery

Explore a stunning collection of HD images featuring iconic car concepts, prototypes, and rare models, highlighting the creativity and craftsmanship of automotive design.

2020s

2020s

Discover the innovative car concepts, prototypes, and rare models of the 2020s, showcasing cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and futuristic automotive designs.

2000s

2000s

Discover the bold and innovative car concepts, prototypes, and rare models from the 2000s, showcasing cutting-edge technology and design that defined the era.

Videos

Videos

Explore our featured collection of concept cars, prototypes, and rare vehicles with captivating stories, complemented by engaging videos.

1700s

1700s

Explore the steam-powered pioneering 1700s, where the first automobiles emerged, blending engineering marvels and visionary concepts.

Polls

Polls

Cast your vote on the best cars of all time! From classic vs. modern releases to groundbreaking concepts, prototypes, custom builds, and stunning designs.

Gifts & Guides

Gifts & Guides

Find the perfect gifts for car lovers with our expert guides and reviews. From accessories to gadgets, we help you choose the best gear for any auto enthusiast.

bottom of page