SAN FRANCISCO: Japanʼs sole coach builder Ken Okuyama Cars has unveiled a 611hp coupe at Pebble Beach, California.
Sitting on a highly rigid aluminium chassis, the limited edition kode57 is propelled by one of the worldʼs most powerful V12 engines mounted directly behind the front axle in a front mid-ship configuration.
As part of its stand-out features, the kode57 comes with a rear-hinged scissor-type doors to give the car a sporty look. It has a driver-oriented cockpit with bespoke individual colour themes defining each seat. The handmade leather and suede interior combination exudes an air of elegance and style.
Electrically-adjustable seats, air-conditioning and an adjustable steering wheel add comfort and enable the driver to find his ideal driving position.
The 6.0-litre V12 engine and suspension settings can be tuned to suit the ownerʼs tastes thanks to a collaboration with German specialist Novitec Rosso. The Novitec tuning raises output from 611hp to 692hp and 609Nm to 639Nm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed semi-automatic transmission.
The partnership with Novitec allows the front ride height to be adjusted by up to 45mm using a switch to assist during parking and other driving situations.
The name kode57 pays homage to the year 1957, a year in which many legendary cars were born and motor racing gained a strong worldwide following.
kode57 has classic proportions of long-nose-short-deck, Front air intakes, fins positioned behind each tyre and a large rear diffuser improves internal airflow and cooling, while wind resistance is minimised thanks to the integration of design techniques that reduce frontal projection surfaces.
Designed with aerodynamics in mind, the two-seater takes on a Formula car-like appearance through its bold “see-through” fenders and sleek silhouette.
Okuyama with the kode57.
As part of its weight-saving efforts, the kode57 incorporates an aluminum space frame and carbon fibre body panels, believed to be derived from the Ferrari 599 GTB. With its low-cut windscreen and long side proportions, the roofless coupe achieves an open-air feeling.
The car rides on staggered wheels using Pirelli P-Zero tyres (295/25ZR21 in front and 335/25ZR22 in the rear).
The Japan-made car is available to order but founder Okuyama did not say how much it is priced or how many units would be made.
Other than creating sports cars, Okuyama is also involved in interior and furniture design as well as eyewear design. The Tokyo-based entrepreneur was responsible for the looks of the Ferrari Enzo, Maserati Quattoporte and Ferrari P4/5.
