Currently reading: New Kimera K-39 hypercar brings 986bhp Koenigsegg V8

Italian firm follows Lancia 037 restomods with original hypercar that will take to Pikes Peak

Italian firm Kimera, famed for its Lancia 037 restomods, has revealed its first car developed entirely in-house – powered by a 986bhp Koenigsegg V8.

Following its previous Evo37 and Evo38, the new car is named K-39, reflecting its altogether more extreme billing.

Its design evokes the Group 5 Lancia Beta Montecarlo – the racing version of the car on which the Evo37 and Evo38 were based – and retains key 037 signatures, such as the Y-shaped front grille and quad headlamps.

It's said by Kimera to have been tweaked to produce downforce on a par with modern racing machinery, with an S-duct pulling the car’s nose toward the ground at high speeds.

Kimera K-39 Stradale

While the K-39 will be road-legal, it has been conceived with sporting intent. A stripped-out variant with a high-downforce kit, resplendent in the famed Martini Racing livery, will challenge the Pikes Peak hillclimb.

A further 10 examples of this Pikes Peak car will be built for “clients who believed in the project from the very beginning”, which will remain road-legal.

Both versions will be powered by the twin-turbocharged Koenigsegg V8, which has been tuned according to Kimera’s requirements.

It said the engine is fitted with smaller turbines than in Koenigsegg’s own hypercars to improve response and drivability.

Its software can also be updated over the air, which could allow Kimera to unlock yet more power as the K-39s enter service. 

Production of the K-39 will be limited, with more than 20 cars having already been allocated to customers.

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Charlie Martin

Charlie Martin Autocar
Title: Staff Writer

As part of Autocar’s news desk, Charlie plays a key role in the title’s coverage of new car launches and industry events. He’s also a regular contributor to its social media channels, creating content for Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and Twitter.

Charlie joined Autocar in July 2022 after a nine-month stint as an apprentice with sister publication What Car?, during which he acquired his gold-standard NCTJ diploma with the Press Association.

He is the proud owner of a Mk4 Mazda MX-5 but still feels pangs of guilt over selling his first car, a Fiat Panda 100HP.