Kimera EVO38

The Heir to an Italian Automotive Dynasty

Kimera Automobili, a brand perhaps lesser known to the big public, is entirely dedicated to the memory of the Lancia rally cars of the 80s and 90s. Their Evo37 model is essentially a Lancia 037 Rally updated for the modern era (oh Stellantis, with so many resources at your disposal and such a rich history, when will you "open your eyes" to successfully relaunch Lancia and Alfa Romeo?!?).

Kimera EVO38 front and side angle profile

Building on the success of the EVO37, Kimera presented the EVO38 a few months ago, which today deserves a dedicated article. Conceived as the natural heir to the iconic sports and racing cars produced in Turin between 1978 and 1992, the EVO38 represents the evolution of a lineage that dominated roads and racetracks around the world.

Kimera EVO38 front with headlights on

A Legacy Reimagined

The EVO38 is not simply a restomod, it is an extreme evolution of the concept, produced in a limited edition of 38 units. Inspired by its glorious ancestors, it embodies their stylistic and technical essence, elevating it to a new level of performance and technology.

Kimera EVO38 mudguards and hood reminiscent of the Delta Integrale

All-Wheel Drive

Unlike the EVO37, the EVO38, winking an eye at the multi-world rally champion Delta, features all-wheel drive. This is implemented through a modern and sophisticated system of torque distribution control and electro-hydraulic differential locking. This system, similar to that of World Rally Cars from the early 2000s, allows the driver to calibrate the differentials directly from the cockpit, adjusting the percentage of traction between the front and rear axles, and even deactivating the front differential to simulate rear-wheel drive. The EVO38 also features adjustable suspension via motorized shock absorbers and a lifting system to adjust the ground clearance, all controlled from the steering wheel.

Kimera EVO38 interior

Mechanical Evolution

The EVO38 maintains the low weight of the EVO37 (approximately 1,100 kg), even with all-wheel drive, thanks to the extensive use of carbon fiber and titanium. The 2-liter 4-cylinder engine, however, has received a significant upgrade, reaching 600 horsepower. This increase was achieved through the re-engineering of various components, including a larger turbocharger, a more evolved volumetric compressor, electro-mechanical clutch with an electric pop-off valve, a new valve configuration, and variable valve timing. The torque has also been significantly increased, reaching around 580 Nm, available at low revs. There is also the option of a direct exhaust for the turbo.

Kimera EVO38 rear side angle

Conclusion

The design of the EVO38 is contemporary and striking. With the EVO38, Kimera solidifies its unique identity, combining passion, art, and technology in a market increasingly less focused on the pure pleasure of driving, undermined by electrification.