This incredible car is a wild 1996 Vector M12, chassis 1V9MB1223T1048008, number 8 of just around 17 (14 production, 3 prototypes) total made for the entire world. The Vector Motors Corporation was first founded in 1971 by American automotive engineer and businessman, Gerald Wiegert, where it was then simply a design house called Vehicle Design Force. Later on, the company name was changed to Vector Aeromotive, and subsequently, a number of wedge-shape cars would begin production across multiple different variants. First came ‘The Vector’ which was shown at the 1976 LA Auto show, followed by the W2, the W8, and other unique prototypes such as the the SRV8, and the Avtech WX-3 & WX-3R. Then came the M12, which was during a time that Vector was dealing with some various company ownership issues. During the late 1990’s Indonesian company, Megatech, had acquired a controlling interest in Vector, and the M12 was their first ever car ever produced by the new parent company. After acquiring Vector, Megatech relocated the companies former headquarters to Green Cove Springs, Florida, where they actually shared office space with Automobolili Lamborghini, which at the time, was also owned by Megatech. The M12 model was designed by one of the UK’s best-known vehicle designers, Peter Steven’s, who is also responsible for the styling of the McLaren F1, the JaguarSport XJR-15 and many others. Steven’s was tasked with developing a modern recreation of the AWX-3, a prototype created by the Vector company in 1993. Ultimately, the M12s short story came to an end in 1999 when the Vector company could no longer pay Lamborghini for use of their engines. This particular car is the last of just two surviving silver Vector M12s, with 013 still existing to this day, and chassis 006 being destroyed in a fire. This example was originally finished in black with grey interior before being painted to silver.
How many made? 8 of 17
Debut: 1996 Detroit Auto Show
Engine: 5.7L Lamborghini V12 - 492hp
Top Speed: 189mph
0-60mph: 4.8 seconds
Photo Credit: @orlandocarspotting
Research: @rarecarsonly
Photo Credit: @orlandocarspotting