2007 Geneva Auto Show Wrap-Up: Stola Phalcon

GENEVA — Stola is an Italian carrozzeria, less well-known than some of the greats even though its history stretches back to the 1920s. At the Geneva auto show, the firm displayed the Phalcon prototype that will go into production in a limited edition of 25 custom cars.

The Phalcon one-off, sporting a huge falcon on its nose, was imposing under the lights in the Geneva show hall. On closer examination, it was apparent that it was a slightly altered version of the Maybach Exelero, which Stola helped German tiremaker Fulda develop as a one-off for the Geneva show two years ago. The interesting thing is that, although Stola participated in the Exelero project, the car was designed by some university students in Pforzheim in cooperation with Mercedes-Benz.

Phalcon is based around a Brabus platform, meaning that ultimately it is derived from a Mercedes-Benz. Power comes from a Brabus-tuned V12 biturbo, churning out 750 horsepower and 1,003 pound-feet of torque. No wonder claimed top speed is 200 mph.

Stola plans to have a run of 25 cars, each tailored to the tastes of individual customers.

Geneva Motor Show: Stola Phalcon Coupe

Notable only for its barely digestible yellow paint, massive overhangs and bird of prey hood ornament, the Stola concept coupe is the work of a company also called Stola based in Turin, Italy. The enormous coupe owes much to its creator's relationship with Brabus, which supplied its 6.3-liter biturbo V12. The company claims 750 hp, 1,003 lb-ft of torque and a top speed in excess of 200 mph. Twenty-two inch wheels and 315/25 Pirelli PZeros are fitted at the corners, but Stola offered no chassis details. Suffice to say that handling would probably not be among this coupe's strengths. --Erin Riches, Senior Content Editor.

source: blogs.edmund.com