This is the 1953 Pegaso Z-102 Berlinetta 2.8 ‘Thrill’ (0102.150.0133), a one-off creation by Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera. The Z-102 model was first ever introduced as a pair of steel-bodied prototypes in 1951 at the Paris Salon which were both deemed too heavy for production, thus resulting in a decision to switch to developing the cars with alloy bodies. Notably, Spain’s only sports car at the time, the Z-102, was also the fastest production car on the road at the time. Each customer had a choice of selecting a luxury body from Italian automobile coachbuilder, Touring, French coachbuilding company, Saoutchik, Barcelona-based designer and coach builder of automobiles, Pedro Serra, or finally, ENASA (Empresa Nacional de Autocamiones SA), Pegaso’s very own in-house coachbuilder. The original design for the Z-102 model was penned by engineer, designer and Pegaso chief technical manager, Wifredo Ricart. Every aspect of development was designed and built in-house in Barcelona in Pegaso’s own factory with the exception of any coachwork. Two Z-102 cars were registered for the 1952 Monaco Grand Prix (0113 and 0115), and 2-4 examples entered into the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans. Also in 1953, a Z-102 Touring BS/2.8 achieved four official R.A.C.B. (Royal Automobile Club de Belgique) world records. The Z-102 also made an appearance during the 1954 Carrera Panamericana. This particular touring-bodied Z-102 is rumored to have been commissioned on behalf of dictator Francisco Franco as a gift for Evita Peròn, the former First Lady of Argentina, however, this has never been substantiated. Perhaps the most distinguished design element of the ‘Thrill’ is the airfoil-section ‘flying buttresses’, which help to channel airflow around the car. The ‘Thrill’ also won the ‘Grand Premio d’Onore’ during the 1953 Concours d’Elegance at Stresa.
How many made? Approximately 86 total (each different)
Engine: 2816cc naturally aspirated, desmodromic 32-valve V8 DOHC - 250bhp
Debut: 1953 Turin, Paris, London and Barcelona Motor Shows
Top Speed: around 140mph
0-60mph: around 8 seconds
Photo Credit: @fuldamobil
Research: @rarecarsonly
1953 Pegaso Z-102 Berlinetta 2.8 ‘Thrill’
03.09.2024
Pegaso