Kimera EVO38 gets iconic Martini livery and more powerful engine
Some cars can wear Martini stripes, but others simply demand them, although until recently they weren’t available. The Kimera EVO38 has always looked like it escaped from a 1980s rally fan’s dream, so the arrival of the EVO38 Collezione Martini seems like the long-awaited version of this car.
Kimera introduced the new collection in Sardinia during the Rally Storico Costa Smeralda, renewing its partnership with Martini after the previous one-off EVO37 Martini 7 model. But unlike that single special car, this is not just one vehicle. It is a small series with several liveries and trim options inspired by Martini’s racing heritage.
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Kimera states that the first themes include Pearl White, Vermouth Red, and Dry Green, with new variations to be introduced over time. This means buyers can choose their favorite flavor of rally nostalgia, if they are quick enough to order. According to the company, only a few examples remain available.
Technical specifications and power
Under the stripes and the new vented hood, behind the eight headlights at the front and the center-lock wheels, lies the same EVO38 foundation as before. This means all-wheel drive, a wide and angular body, a carbon fiber construction, and a style inspired by the legendary Lancia 037 — the last rear-wheel-drive car to win the WRC in 1983.
Power increased to 631 hp
The Collezione Martini also receives more power. Kimera reports that the 2.1-liter twin-turbocharged four-cylinder engine now produces 631 hp (640 PS), which is 39 hp more than the standard EVO38 (592 hp or 600 PS). This is quite an absurd amount of power for four cylinders without hybrid assistance. Torque has increased by nearly 22% — to approximately 516 lb-ft (700 Nm), and the redline has been raised to 8,200 rpm.
To achieve the new power output, a Flex Fuel system is now available, allowing the engine to run on E85 bioethanol for maximum output. The engine also received an additional intercooler spray system that uses high-pressure cold water jets to control intake air temperature during aggressive driving.
Weight remains at around 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs), and Kimera hints that these cars could be even lighter. This should make the power, delivered through a six-speed manual gearbox and all-wheel drive system, pleasantly aggressive as you conquer mountain passes, channeling your inner Markku Alén.
Hypercar plans
And if a 631-horsepower pseudo-Lancia that looks like it’s still fighting the Group B war seems too tame, Kimera has also confirmed production of its K-39 hypercar. Unlike the EVO38, which is based on the Lancia Beta Montecarlo, the K-39 is a clean-sheet design. The company previously showed the K39 as a concept in 2024, explaining it was inspired by the Montecarlo Turbo silhouette racer that won major trophies from 1979 to 1981. More details are promised to be revealed on May 15th.
Thus, Kimera is not only updating its existing model lineup but also expanding it towards a true hypercar, signaling the company’s ambitions to move beyond retro-rally cars. The use of E85 bioethanol to boost power is an interesting step, allowing for increased performance without complex hybrid systems, making the car lighter and, presumably, more exhilarating to drive. The limited-edition Collezione Martini will likely become a collector’s rarity, combining modern technology with nostalgia for the golden era of rallying.