This is the 1999 Sbarro GT1, which was constructed in order to celebrate German luxury automotive brand, Mercedes’ victory at FIA GT Championship with the CLK GTR in 1997, and the CLK LM in 1998. This unique car was revealed for the very first time to the public during the 1999 Geneva Motor Show, and was developed by a Swiss high-performance replica and sports car company known as Sbarro. This company was founded in 1971 by Swiss designer, Franco Sbarro, who is best known for his work in the creation and modification of a wide variety of interesting looking automobiles. Over time, GT1 cars have become rare and mysterious machines that are rarely ever seen racing, and spotted even less driving on the road. The GT1 racing class was first created in 1993 as the highest class in the BPR Global GT Series, and fell under the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) regulations in the year 1997, forming the FIA GT Championship after the BPR series regimented by the FIA. This unique vehicle can be considered Sbarro’s take on a GT1 racing car, and due to the Mercedes-Benz connection on the project, the Sbarro GT1 actually makes use of Mercedes-Benz parts in as many areas as possible. Mercedes-Benz played no actual role in the production of this car, however, powering this beast is a 7.4-liter Mercedes V8 engine that develops 450 horsepower, allowing this car to accelerate from 0-60mph in just around 4.9 seconds, and top speeds north of 200mph. The 1 of 1 Sbarro GT1 is finished in metallic grey over a black and red velvet interior, and utilizes Sbarro’s dual-frame design, which was patented in 1991. The car features a special exhaust system developed exclusively by Sbarro, Antera wheels, and many more bells and whistles.
How many made? 1
Engine: 7,400cc Mercedes-V8 5-speed manual ZF - 450 BHP @ 5800 rpm
Debut: 1999 Geneva Motor Show
Top Speed: around 201mph
0-60: around 4.9 seconds
Photo Credit: @revistacar
Research: @rarecarsonly