Kimera EVO37 Review: 505Bhp Twin-Charged Restomod, 37 Units

The Kimera EVO37 stands as a masterful tribute to one of motorsport’s most revered machines, the Lancia 037. This Italian-crafted restomod takes the essence of the 1980s Group B rally dominator and infuses it with contemporary engineering prowess, resulting in a vehicle that thrills on public roads while honoring its storied heritage. Limited to just 37 units, it combines explosive power, razor-sharp handling, and exquisite detailing to create an unparalleled driving experience.

Origins and the Lancia Legacy

The Lancia 037 burst onto the rally scene in the early 1980s, securing the World Rally Championship constructors’ title in 1983 against fierce competition. Its mid-engine layout, lightweight construction, and supercharged fury made it a benchmark for performance. Fast-forward to today, and Kimera Automobili, founded by rally enthusiast Luca Betti, resurrects this icon not as a mere replica but as an evolved masterpiece. Housed near Turin in a historic villa, the company meticulously reengineers every component for modern demands.

Unlike faithful clones, the EVO37 diverges significantly from the original. Only select elements, like certain mounting points, echo the 037’s design. Kimera starts with a fresh tubular spaceframe chassis derived from the Lancia Montecarlo’s silhouette but vastly upgraded for stiffness and safety. This full roll-cage structure envelops occupants in a protective cocoon, far surpassing the original’s capabilities.

Powertrain: Twin-Charged Terror

At the heart of the EVO37 lies a 2.2-liter inline-four engine, twin-charged with a Lysholm supercharger and a Garrett turbocharger. This hybrid forced-induction setup delivers boost without the typical lag, providing seamless acceleration from idle to redline. Standard output hits 420bhp, but activating Race mode unleashes 505bhp at 7,000-7,250rpm and a volcanic 600Nm of torque, with 400Nm available from just 2,000rpm.

The power surge propels the sub-1,100kg car to Ferrari F40-like acceleration, thanks to a power-to-weight ratio that rivals supercars of the era. All moving parts are reinforced, including a strengthened engine block, ensuring reliability under extreme loads. Power routes through a Graziano six-speed manual gearbox and limited-slip differential to the rear wheels, shod in Pirelli rubber (245/35 R18 front, 295/30 R19 rear).

This table highlights the EVO37’s vital stats, positioning it as a lightweight predator.

Chassis and Suspension Mastery

Kimera’s engineers prioritized a balance of rally aggression and road compliance. The double-wishbone suspension, forged for precision, pairs with Öhlins dampers—dual units at the rear for superior control. Front brakes feature compact coilovers, while massive Brembo ventilated discs (same size front and rear, four-piston calipers) provide unyielding stopping power.

The setup reads road imperfections with uncanny detail yet absorbs impacts over longer hauls. It’s firm, transmitting every路面 nuance to the driver, but never punishing. Traction control, tuned for track use, intervenes judiciously to keep the rear Pirellis hooked up amid 600Nm torque bombs.

• Forged aluminum double-wishbone arms ensure geometric precision.
• Öhlins dampers with adjustable settings for road or track.
• Brembo brakes deliver fade-free performance.
• Carbon-fiber body panels reduce weight while maintaining strength (upgraded from original Kevlar).

Design: Homage with Modern Flair

Visually, the EVO37 is a dead ringer for the 037, with wide arches, pop-up headlights, and aerodynamic wedges. Carbon-composite panels keep weight down, and details like the mythical Kimera beast emblem nod to the company’s namesake—a winged lion-ram-snake hybrid from lore. The two-seater cockpit offers minimal luggage space upfront, emphasizing purity.

Wheelbase and proportions mirror the original, but subtle updates like larger rear tires enhance stance. Paint options and custom liveries allow personalization, making each of the 37 cars unique.

Interior: Spartan Yet Supreme

Slide into wafer-thin Sparco bucket seats with five-point harnesses, and you’re enveloped in a purposeful cabin. Unlike many restomods from small outfits, the EVO37 exudes big-manufacturer quality—no rattles, precise controls, and tactile materials. The driving position is exemplary, with a compact dash blending analog gauges and minimal digital aids.

It’s a pure two-seater focused on driver engagement. Hard seats prioritize support over comfort, ideal for spirited runs. Custom touches like Alcantara and carbon accents elevate the retro vibe without ostentation.

On-Road Dynamics: Pure Adrenaline

Behind the wheel, the EVO37 erupts with F40-esque fury and Lotus-like agility. The twin-charged engine builds pressure instantly, hurling you forward with tire-shredding force. Corners are attacked with telepathic steering, the chassis rotating eagerly yet remaining planted thanks to sophisticated damping.

Road noise and firmness immerse you fully, but compliance prevents fatigue. Overtaking is effortless; a bootful of throttle summons reserves that pin you back. It’s not just fast—it’s alive, rewarding skill with grins per mile.

Pricing and Exclusivity

At €680,000 base (around $727,000 USD), the EVO37 targets collectors and enthusiasts. Each is bespoke, justifying the premium with hand-built excellence. Production caps at 37 units, ensuring rarity. Compared to rivals:

Future Prospects and Variants

Kimera hints at further evolutions, potentially including all-wheel-drive options echoing rally roots. The EVO37 sets a high bar for restomods, proving small teams can rival giants in execution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Kimera EVO37 different from the original Lancia 037?

It features a modern tubular chassis, twin-charged 505bhp engine, and upgraded suspension/brakes, vastly improving stiffness, power, and safety.

Is the EVO37 street-legal?

Yes, fully homologated for road use with traction control and compliant dynamics.

How many will be built?

Strictly limited to 37 units worldwide.

What’s the top speed?

Over 300km/h in Race mode, though exact figures depend on gearing.

Can it handle track days?

Absolutely—Race mode, Öhlins, and Brembos make it track-ready.