Analog, powerful, exclusive, stunning, thrilling
Imagine you're tearing through a stretch of asphalt, the kind that runs wild through the heart of a landscape that seems to go on forever, yet you’re not just driving—you’re dancing. Each shift, each turn, each breath you take, all of it in sync with a machine that's more than just metal and horsepower. It’s a visceral, gut-punching reminder that driving isn’t about getting from one place to another; it’s about being alive.
This is the Nilu27, a creation not born from a boardroom, but from a mind unshackled by the constraints of corporate demands. Sasha Selipanov, a name that resonates with those who appreciate the art of design, the man behind this beast, has taken his experience with the likes of Bugatti and Lamborghini and poured it into something that feels almost like rebellion. The Nilu hypercar is not for the faint of heart, nor is it for those who think driving is merely an act of transportation. This machine is for those who understand that cars are more than just vehicles—they're a canvas, a symphony, a roaring beast that needs taming.
Underneath the sculptural, lean exterior that draws from the elegance of Italian classics, the brutal simplicity of 60s F1 cars, and the aggressive flair of American muscle, lies a 6.5-liter V12 engine, handcrafted by the artisans at Hartley Engines in New Zealand. This isn’t just an engine; it’s a symphony of power and precision, delivering over 1,000 horsepower. It’s designed with a “Hot V” configuration, a rarity that not only optimizes performance but also ensures that the engine bay remains as raw and exposed as the driving experience itself. The exhausts snake their way through the inside of the V, a decision that allows the engine to breathe freely, screaming its way to an 11,000 RPM redline.
And then there's the transmission. A seven-speed manual—yes, manual—crafted by the experts at CIMA in Italy. It’s the kind of gearbox that demands respect, the kind that requires your attention, your dedication. It’s not about the fastest shift, but the most precise, the most connected. Every gear change is a conversation, a dialogue between man and machine, a reminder that technology doesn’t always make things better, sometimes it just gets in the way.
The Nilu isn’t a car you simply drive; it’s a car you experience. Its double-wishbone, pushrod suspension offers handling that’s as sharp as a scalpel, and the Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes ensure that you can reign in the beast when needed. But what really sets this car apart is its unapologetic focus on the analog. In a world obsessed with digital everything, the Nilu27 stands as a monument to what driving used to be, what it should be—a pure, unfiltered connection between driver and machine.
For those who get it, who really understand what driving is about, the Nilu27 isn’t just a car; it’s a statement, a work of art, a rebellion against the sanitized, soulless experience that modern technology often forces upon us. This is a machine built for those who crave the thrill of the drive, who understand that beauty is not just in the eye of the beholder, but in the way a car feels at 11,000 RPM, in the way it grips the road, in the way it makes your heart race with every turn. This is the Nilu27. And it’s absolutely stunning.
Pros:
- Exquisite Design: The Nilu27 boasts a unique and stunning design, drawing inspiration from classic Italian cars, 60s F1, and American muscle. It stands out for its sculptural and lean exterior, which is both beautiful and functional.
- Powerful Engine: The 6.5-liter V12 engine, with its rare “Hot V” configuration, delivers over 1,000 horsepower and an exhilarating driving experience, especially with its high-revving 11,000 RPM limit.
- Analog Driving Experience: The focus on an analog, unfiltered driving experience with a manual seven-speed transmission offers a pure connection between driver and machine, catering to enthusiasts who value driving skill and precision.
- Exceptional Handling: The double-wishbone, pushrod suspension system and lightweight design ensure precise handling and an engaging driving experience, making it ideal for the track.
- Exclusivity: With only 15 units produced, the Nilu27 offers extreme exclusivity, appealing to collectors and those who value rarity in their automotive investments.
Cons:
- Limited Practicality: As a track-only car with a focus on performance over comfort, the Nilu27 may not be suitable for daily driving or long-distance trips.
- High Cost: The exclusivity and high-end engineering come at a steep price, making it accessible only to a select few with substantial financial resources.
- Manual Transmission Limitation: While the manual transmission is a pro for purists, it might be seen as a con for those who prefer the convenience and speed of modern automated gearboxes.
- Lack of Modern Technology: The deliberate minimization of modern technology, while appealing to enthusiasts, may deter buyers who expect cutting-edge tech and driver assistance features in a hypercar.
- Road-Legal Variant Uncertainty: The fact that a road-legal variant is still in development might be a downside for those who want to drive this car outside of a track environment immediately.
