Automobili Turismo Sport revived via 2500 GT
Italian ATS badge resurrected for 950kg, 470kW carbon-fibre exoticarPropelled by a naturally-aspirated V8, the ATS 2500 GT is an Italian exotic that's not only fast but visually striking, combining contemporary and classic design cues to great effect.
Making its debut at the Top Marques event in Monte Carlo this week, the ATS 2500 GT is based on a carbon-fibre monocoque chassis with an integrated roll cage. The honeycombed body panels are made from carbon-fibre too and its independent wishbone suspension incorporates Ohlins dampers.
The car also boasts specially design aluminium underbody panels that remove the need for a larger rear wing in its journey to a maximum velocity of 340km/h.
Although ATS, or Automobili Turismo Sport, has not said what size its naturally-aspirated (non-turbo) V8 engine is, the dry-sump powerplant pumps out 640hp or 470kW, at a screaming 10,000rpm.
Power is transferred to the rear wheels via six-speed manual or sequential gearbox and limited-slip differential, and its maker says it can sprint to 100km/h in just 2.9 seconds – quicker than a Lamborghini Huracan.
The 2500 GT, which also gets a stainless-steel exhaust system for expected aural delights, rides on 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels shod with chunky rubber. They look larger because the car is tiny, measuring just 4.25 metres long and weighing 950kg.
Deceleration is taken care of by big six-piston brake callipers clamping 360mm front and 355mm rear discs. ATS explains there is "no ABS".
The niche Italian car builder says it "wants to bring on today’s roads a new, fast and light car, with technical solutions worthy of a race car," one that is "not filtered or altered by any electronic device".
ATS was formed in 1962 by ex-Ferrari staffers who were fired by Enzo Ferrari when the Maranello company experienced its "deep crisis" that year.
Although former Ferrari designer Carlo Chiti and sport director Romolo Tavoni built 15 ATS 2500 GTs in 1964, before the company was dissolved, it hopes to better its initial run 50 years on. There's no word on price yet.
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