Arion Automotive

Aruna · 31 December 2020 16:36

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Arion Automotive

Epitome of Elegance.

History & Lore

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Beginning in 1930 as Arion Coachwork, the brand created elegant designs for other automotive brands. Come 1936, they expanded into creating their own GP car to take on the championships.

Aruna Arion Leone born in 1900 is the founder of Arion Coachwork, who enjoyed both designing and racing the cars he and his brand crafted.

With the success of their GP cars and various commissioned coachwork bodies, Arion went on to become established as a car brand with it’s first road-going prototype in 1945 then production of the very first Arion: The Celeste 16C Royale in 1947.

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Early Years

Based in North Yorkshire the small startup company Arion Coachwork began by designing car bodies for brands. Slowly they would grow into a larger firm, now crafting their own engines and chassis as well for GP racing. With podiums sometimes, and lots of happy clients from their coachwork bodies it was time to develop further, as they forked a loan out for two plots of land, an engine and car plant for creating the very first Arion car.

Few different concept ideas were sculpted out from clay eventually: Project Celeste and Project Aquila. The Celeste was an elegant swooping large luxury car, whilst Aquila was a sporty sleeker coupe car. Judging by the larger markets for a comfortable, large premium car, the team opted to produce the Arion Celeste, reserving the Aquila for the future.

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Major expansion of the company

With the successful release of the prestigious Celeste 16C Royale Saloon & Cabriolet, orders were coming in from all over the country, with even a few international buyers intent on shipping them over. After 3 & 1/2 years in production, Arion forged another loan out for more land: The Aquila was on it’s way!

1953 marked the release of the Arion Aquila, a sporty 5 litre V8 and room for four the GT car performed well on road and the track. The Aquila was entered in various GPs around Europe, doing Britain proud with it’s results whilst also boosting the brand’s reach to the public, helping Arion grow further.

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The Swinging Sixties

Continuing to grow in popularity and as a brand, Arion had big plans for the 60s. First releasing the Mythos to fit the luxury car market, then the Hydrus for high-end sports, and Aquila for the GT market.

They still had the entry level premium car: Virgo on offer too, but expanded in 1966 with it’s second generation. The new Shoebill was introduced to go between the Mythos and Virgo later in 1969.

With profits high and no sign of stopping, come late 1969, Arion were called one of the biggest upcoming brands of the UK. With the success of their race cars: Aquila RS, Mythos Touring car and ARD8 Formula 1 car, it was clear that the future looked positive.

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Aruna · 31 December 2020 16:37

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Arion Automotive

Epitome of Elegance.

Hierarchy

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Classification

Engine Series

3-Cylinder {3C}
4-Cylinder {4C}
6-Cylinder {6C}
8-Cylinder {8C}
16-Cylinder {16C}

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Supercharged {S}
Turbocharged {T}
Fuel Injection {I}
Supercharged Fuel Injection {SI}
Turbocharged Fuel Injection {TI}
Augmented Electromagnetic Valve Technology (Also known/codenamed as “AEGIS”) {AEVT}

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Codename example 1: AR3/16C TI
Codename system: Arion 3 Litre, 16 Cylinder Turbocharged Fuel Injection

Codename example 2: AR5/8C AEVT-I
Codename system: Arion 5 Litre, 8 Cylinder Fuel Injection with Augmented Electromagnetic Valve Technology

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Quality Series

Premium {PM} (Premium)
Luxury {LX} (Luxury)
Prætulit - {EM} (Embodiment of magnificence)
Time Attack {TA} - Specific to track-only & sometimes street-legal editions
Racing Specification {RS} - Specific to highly tuned performance editions

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Colours

Premier Series

AR01P Racing Red
AR02P Piano Black
AR03P Aquamarine
AR04P Beige
AR05P Raspberry
AR06P Golden
AR07P Teal
AR08P Moss Green
AR09P Cockatoo
AR10P Malham Grey
AR11P Oceanic Blue
AR12P Forged Red
AR13P Spectral Black
AR14P Clear Champaign
AR15P Rosewood
AR16P British Racing Green

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Luxury Series

AR01L Flame Red
AR02L Solar Yellow
AR03L Brilliant Green
AR04L Moonlight Mage
AR05L Mystic Pink
AR06L Shining Celeste
AR07CS Burning Star
AR08CS Plasma Fusion
AR09CS Moonlight Iridescent

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Prætulit Series

AR01 Wine Red
AR02 Sea Blue
AR03 Hazelnut
AR04 Platinum
AR05 British Racing Green (Pearl)
AR06 Celeste Blue
AR07 Royal Red
AR08 Glaze White
AR09 Moonlight
AR10 Aztec Gold
AR11 Eurasian Bronze
AR12 Bacchus Crimson
AR13 Laguna Seca Blue (Formerly Peridot Blue)

Lineup

Hatchbacks

Wren - A-Segment - City car
Virgo - B-Segment - Subcompact car
Antares - C-Segment - Family car

Saloons

Virgo - B-Segment - Subcompact car
Cormorant - C/D-Segment - Family car
Shoebill - D-Segment - Compact Executive car
Mythos - E-Segment - Executive Family car
Celeste - F-Segment - Flagship Luxury car

Estates

Cormorant - C/D-Segment - Family car
Shoebill - D-Segment - Compact Executive car
Mythos - E-Segment - Executive Family car

SUVs

Arietis - J-Segment - Supermini SUV
Gruis - J-Segment - Small family SUV
Polaris - J-Segment - Large family SUV
Hercules - J-Segment - Executive SUV
Andromeda - J-Segment - Flagship Luxury SUV

Coupes

Starling - S-Segment - Entry-grade Sports car
Heron - S-Segment - Mid-grade Sports car
Cygnus - S-Segment - Sports GT for two
Aquila - S-Segment - Sports GT Car for four
Falco - S-Segment - High Performance Sports car/Supercar
Hydrus - S-Segment - Supercar
Cassiopeia - S-Segment - Flagship Luxury Hypercar

Cabriolets

Cormorant - C/D-Segment - Family car
Shoebill - D-Segment - Compact Executive car
Mythos - E-Segment - Executive Family car
Celeste - F-Segment - Flagship Luxury car

Spyders

Starling - S-Segment - Entry-grade Sports car
Heron - S-Segment - Mid-grade Sports car
Cygnus - S-Segment - Sports GT for two
Aquila - S-Segment - Sports GT Car for four
Falco - S-Segment - High Performance Sports car/Supercar
Hydrus - S-Segment - Supercar

Utility & Offroad

Gruis - J-Segment - Class 1 Pickup Truck (2700kg load weight or less)
Polaris - J-Segment - Class 2 Pickup Truck (2700kg to 4600kg load weight)
Hercules - J-Segment - Class 3 Pickup Truck (4600kg to 6400kg load weight)
Andromeda - J-Segment - Class 3 Pickup Truck (4600kg to 6400kg load weight)

MPVs

Apus - M-Segment - Mini MPV
Tucana - M-Segment - Compact MPV
Vela - M-Segment - Large MPV

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abg7 · 13 January 2021 17:19

With LCV 4.1.12 now in the open beta phase, it makes sense to re-imagine the entire history of Arion - and not just because everything will look better. It also provides a perfect opportunity to fill any remaining holes in their lineup from the previous thread - assuming they exist at all.

Aruna · 13 January 2021 21:39

Aquila 8C 1953

One of the most luxurious and fastest GT cars on the market.

Shown in Glaze White with Royal Red accent two-tone

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Introduced in 1953 was Arion’s Aquila, a luxury GT car which seats 4 adults comfortably whilst being sporty and performance driven. It was offered with two trim grades; Touring: The more snug and softer tuned suspension version with a smooth 2-gear automatic & Sport: The 4-gear manual with harder dampers and tweaked for performance.

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Shown in Celeste Blue with Platinum accent two-tone

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The Aquila features a full cast iron 5 litre V8 outputting maximum power of 213.2hp @ 4900RPM and peak torque of 284.8lb-ft @ 2.900RPM. Given enough space it was estimated to go all the way to 150mph and a bit more still.

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Shown in Hazelnut with Glaze White accent two-tone

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Buyers could opt from an array of eight colours at the time, even having optional two-tone colour schemes. Not only was the styling quite extravagant, but the Aquila was one of the first cars of the time to have indicators and fog lights front and rear, as well as a reversing light.

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Shown in Sea Blue

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Buyers wanting even more from their already exquisite purchase could opt to having a Phonograph installed with two of the highest quality speakers front and rear for exceptional audio performance.

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Shown in British Racing Green

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Whilst being a successful car in terms of sales, it was also used in official racing. There was few used in touring car racing, but some were used for rally events, being lightweight when stripped down of luxuries and equipped with racing gear the Aquila was certainly a racing machine not to be taken lightly.

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Specifications

Arion Aquila 8C Touring {EM} '53

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (1,190kg - 57F/43R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 2 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone (F&R) Standard suspension and Twin-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Cast Iron 5.0L V8 16-Valve OHC producing 213.2hp @ 4,900RPM & 284.8lb-ft 2,900RPM with 5,000RPM redline
Economy: 16.7mpg combined (13.5mpg City and 19.9mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 10.3s & 152mph top speed
Wheels: 15 inch Steel rims on radial medium compound (P130/90C15 92Z)
Brakes: 300mm 2LS Drum front & 275mm SLS Drum rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 2 door coupe - Hand Made 4 Seater & Luxury AM Radio or Phonograph Entertainment
Price: For sale starting at 6,000GBP before paint and accessories in '53

Arion Aquila 8C Sport {EM} '53

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (1,189kg - 57F/43R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 4 Gear Manual
Suspension: Double Wishbone (F&R) Standard suspension and Twin-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Cast Iron 5.0L V8 16-Valve OHC producing 213.2hp @ 4,900RPM & 284.8lb-ft 2,900RPM with 5,000RPM redline
Economy: 16.8mpg combined (14.1mpg City and 19.5mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 10.0s & 157mph top speed
Wheels: 15 inch Steel rims on radial medium compound (P130/90C15 92Z)
Brakes: 300mm 2LS Drum front & 275mm SLS Drum rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 2 door coupe - Hand Made 4 Seater & Luxury AM Radio or Phonograph Entertainment
Price: For sale starting at 5,900GBP before paint and accessories in '53

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Gallery

Aruna · 22 January 2021 19:54

Virgo 4C 1958

The entry level luxury car which surprised Britain.

Shown in Racing Red with Piano Black accent two-tone

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With the prominent success of motor racing from the GP cars and luxury tourer cars, Arion used the profits to buy new land for a leap in the market to an affordable luxury saloon. Introducing the Virgo 4C.

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Shown in Aquamarine

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The Virgo was put on the market at a somewhat reasonable entry price of £2,000 featured in the basic colours only. Arion called it the “Leap into luxury for the common man.” Which was quite the opposite as most were bought by wealthy businessmen or those looking for an upgrade to their chauffeur’s ride.

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Shown in Piano Black with Moss Green accent two-tone

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There was two trim grades for the Virgo: Premier & Luxury Lane. The Premier being the base model, Luxury Lane being equipped with hand made interior and photograph as standard. Compared to the Premier the Luxury Lane trim only came as a four-seater, due to the middle seat being swapped for storage of cutlery and glasses as well as a pull-down plush arm rest.

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Shown in Glaze White with Royal Red accent two-tone

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Making somewhat affordable luxury did come at a price, the Virgo was sluggish with only 78hp, making 0-60mph times of around 16 seconds which would make it the slowest Arion to date giving a bit of a strange image for one of Britian’s sporting GP & Touring car racing manufacturers.

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Shown in Celeste Blue with Platinum accent two-tone

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The Virgo being at an interesting price let more people hold the keys to their very own Arion, aiding the company’s growth and development. With extra sales, profits were put into research & development for both racing technologies and luxury road car tech too, as well as more advertising to the public.

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Specifications

Arion Virgo 4C Premier {PM} '58

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Steel panels (1,180kg - 55F/45R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone (F&R) Progressive suspension and Twin-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Cast Iron 2.2L I4 8-Valve OHC producing 78.0hp @ 4,700RPM & 114.8lb-ft 2,400RPM with 5,000RPM redline
Economy: 23mpg combined (18.5mpg City and 27.5mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 16.1s & 97mph top speed
Wheels: 14 inch Steel rims on radial medium compound (P155/80R14 88Q)
Brakes: 275mm 2LS Drum front & 275mm SLS Drum rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door saloon - Luxury 5 Seater & Luxury AM Radio
Price: For sale starting at 2,000GBP before paint and accessories in '58

Arion Virgo 4C Luxury Lane {LX} '58

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Steel panels (1,160kg - 55F/45R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone (F&R) Progressive suspension and Twin-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Cast Iron 2.2L I4 8-Valve OHC producing 78.0hp @ 4,700RPM & 114.8lb-ft 2,400RPM with 5,000RPM redline
Economy: 23.1mpg combined (18.6mpg City and 27.6mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 16.4s & 97mph top speed
Wheels: 14 inch Steel rims on radial medium compound (P155/80R14 88Q)
Brakes: 275mm 2LS Drum front & 275mm SLS Drum rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door saloon - Hand Made 4 Seater & Phonograph
Price: For sale starting at 5,600GBP before paint and accessories in '58

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Gallery

DuceTheTruth100 · 23 January 2021 02:02

Those are some nice designs

Aruna · 28 January 2021 18:20

Mythos 16C 1963

A classy yet revolutionary step in Arion’s history.

Shown in Racing Red

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Arion Automotive were at a stage where the Celeste 16C was too dated and old to be sold anymore for quite some time, their flagship needed upgrading or replacing, and it was replaced with the new Mythos name.

Still growing as a company and investing in new technologies, the Mythos was the first Arion to feature fuel injection and hydropneumatic suspension. The special Cosmos edition featured a clock on the dashboard and air conditioning for the entire cabin front and back.

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Shown in Beige

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The Mythos utilised the base 6 litre V16 from the old Celeste, but with a completely revised top-end DOHC with 2 valve per cylinder and mechanical fuel injection. The AR6/16C was able to output impressive numbers like over 300lb-ft at 1,360RPM, and almost 230 maximum horsepower.

Even though it weighs over 1600kg on the Royal alone, it could still hit 0-62mph within 9 seconds, and drive all the way to 146mph.

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Shown in Teal

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Striking and stylish, the Mythos did also showcase a regal tone too, especially glazed in all chrome fixtures from top to bottom. The interior was almost entirely composed of leather, wood and aluminium. Specifically aluminium was used to help lighten the car, such were the special magnesium wheels.

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Shown in Golden

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Three trim grades were released on the Mythos: Royale, Cabriolet and Royale Cosmos. The Royale was the standard, highly prestigious flagship model.

The luxury and quality expressed from the heart and souls of Arion’s craftsmen was hard to compete with.

The Cabriolet was an extension of the Royale, but only sold as a 2-door couple to appeal to more of a sporty GT market buyer searching for open top thrills whilst maintaining high-class.

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Shown in British Racing Green

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Limited to only 200 models per year, the Mythos Royale Cosmos was the highest value Arion to date. The Cosmos name came from the extravagant dual-moonroof only available on this model, as well as a fine-crafted mechanical clock in the centre dashboard, and a completely new air conditioning unit, the first of all Arions. The fifth seat was taken out in favour of room for the back passengers, as well as storage.

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Specifications

Arion Mythos 16C Royale {PM} '63

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (1,617kg - 62F/38R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone (F&R) Hydropneumatic suspension and Twin-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Cast Iron 6.0L V16 32-Valve DOHC producing 227.3hp @ 5,100RPM & 323.5lb-ft 2,400RPM with 5,500RPM redline
Economy: 19.2mpg combined (15.8mpg City and 22.6mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 8.94s & 146mph top speed
Wheels: 16 inch Magnesium rims on radial medium compound (P205/70R16 103V)
Brakes: 325mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 325mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door saloon - Luxury 5 Seater & Luxury AM Radio
Price: For sale starting at 8,000GBP before paint and accessories in '63

Arion Mythos 16C Cabriolet {PM} '63

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (1,903kg - 60F/40R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone (F&R) Hydropneumatic suspension and Twin-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Cast Iron 6.0L V16 32-Valve DOHC producing 227.3hp @ 5,100RPM & 323.5lb-ft 2,400RPM with 5,500RPM redline
Economy: 17.9mpg combined (14.5mpg City and 21.3mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 10.4s & 146mph top speed
Wheels: 16 inch Magnesium rims on radial medium compound (P205/70R16 103V)
Brakes: 325mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 325mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door cabriolet - Luxury 5 Seater & Luxury AM Radio
Price: For sale starting at 8,200GBP before paint and accessories in '63

Arion Mythos 16C Royale Cosmos {LX} '63

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (1,616kg - 62F/38R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone (F&R) Hydropneumatic suspension and Twin-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Cast Iron 6.0L V16 32-Valve DOHC producing 227.3hp @ 5,100RPM & 323.5lb-ft 2,400RPM with 5,500RPM redline
Economy: 19.2mpg combined (15.8mpg City and 22.6mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 8.94s & 146mph top speed
Wheels: 16 inch Magnesium rims on radial medium compound (P205/70R16 103V)
Brakes: 325mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 325mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door saloon - Hand Made 4 Seater & Luxury AM Radio or Photograph
Price: For sale starting at 10,000GBP before paint and accessories in '63

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Gallery

Royale & Cabriolet interior

Cosmos interior:

Aruna · 2 March 2021 14:17

Hydrus 16C 1963

The exciting yet dangerous underdog of Le Mans.

Shown in British Racing Green

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In 1963 to be released alongside the Mythos was the dashing Hydrus 16C, a true sports car for the road and track.

Displaying striking lines and curves the Hydrus showcased a change of pace from previous styles of Arion’s lineup. It would be their first all out sports car having just two seats. The intention was with it to take on the Le Mans race course to promote the brand as well as hopefully be successful.

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Shown in Racing Red

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In the middle of the car sat a small-ish 3 litre V16 with technology developed from their previous GP cars. It was fitted with 8 DCOE Carburetors and a long tubular exhaust system, it was altogether not as loud as expected and reasonable for road use with a healthy powerband, though the fuel efficiency was not it’s strong suit.

As a true race car for the road, it could hit 62mph in under 6 seconds, and the top speed potential was 173mph, though in testing it was too dangerous to go over 150mph as the car would lean into oversteer. Several tests ended in crashes, which was due to the 205 tyre square setup, extremely uncommon on midship cars, which in later years was updated to meet the same specs as the LM edition at 215 front & 245 rear.

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Shown in Celeste Blue

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The Hydrus was fast, dangerously fast. Though the LM edition was much more refined and safe, and eliminated as much of the oversteer as possible, it also had upgraded parted which gave it roughly 5kg less weight and almost 70 more BHP.

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Arion’s LM edition Hydrus raced in Le Mans and other worldwide events showcasing the brand and it’s prestigious, high-grade engineered race machine. There was victories and losses, and some ended up DNF by crashing though no fatalities in any races occurred.

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Specifications

Arion Hydrus {PM} '63

Chassis: Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (970kg - 39F/61R)
Drivetrain: Mid Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 5 Gear Manual
Suspension: Double Wishbone (F&R) Standard suspension and Twin-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 3.0L V16 32-Valve OHC producing 204.6hp @ 6,300RPM & 185.8lb-ft 5,200RPM with 7,000RPM redline
Economy: 14.8mpg combined (12.2mpg City and 17.3mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 5.6s & 173mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 16 inch Magnesium rims on radial semi slick compound (P205/65R16 99Y)
Brakes: 310mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 325mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 2 door coupe - Premium 2 Seater & Premium AM Radio
Price: For sale starting at 7,550GBP before paint and accessories in '63

Arion Hydrus {PM} LM '63

Chassis: Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (965kg - 39F/61R)
Drivetrain: Mid Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 5 Gear Manual
Suspension: Double Wishbone (F&R) Standard suspension and Twin-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 3.0L V16 32-Valve OHC producing 272.0hp @ 7,500RPM & 200.5lb-ft 6,800RPM with 8,000RPM redline
Economy: 12.2mpg combined (10.4mpg City and 13.9mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 5.7s & 188mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 16 inch Magnesium rims on radial semi slick compound (P215/60R16 100Y Front & P245/55R16 100Y Rear)
Brakes: 310mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 325mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 2 door coupe - Sport 2 Seater & Premium AM Radio
Price: For sale starting at 8,900GBP before paint and accessories in '63

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Gallery

Interior & Close ups

abg7 · 2 March 2021 14:39

Easily the best use, period, of any mid-engined version of the recently introduced E-Type body (in any size) I’ve ever seen - and way ahead of its time in terms of looks and performance. Well done!

Aruna · 5 October 2021 16:17

Aquila 8C 1964

Gorgeous, fast and comfortable.

Shown in Sea Blue

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Succeeding the first generation from 1953, the second generation Aquila 8C released in 1964, it now featured a massive advancement in technology and styling over the previous but retained the spirit of the old.

Following suit with 4 full luxurious seats and offering a 3-gear automatic or 5-gear manual with hydropneumatic suspension completing it, making it one of the best GT cars on the market at the time.

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Shown in Hazelnut

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The Aquila was fitted with a 3.0L V8 derived from the Mythos’ 6.0L V16 by cutting the block in half, not only did it share engines in a sense, but also shared the new, advanced fuel injection technology from it. The exciting 3.0L V8 was placed front-mid-longitudinally for better weight distribution and handling characteristics to help with it’s large 2.65m wheelbase

Being a GT car, performance and comfort without flaws was at the top of the list when creating the second generation Aquila. It could achieve a 6.55s 0-62mph and hit 160mph+ when tested on the motorways of Great Britain. Even with it’s dangerously skinny tyres, it got .97gs on the skid pan, not too shabby, but made up for it in reasonable fuel economy: 22.6mpg combined.

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Shown in Royal Red

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Whilst in stock form the Aquila 8C was fast as a bullet, the RS version that was released shortly after send it out to space, with an upgraded engine, stripped for weight inside and out for maximum performance gains.

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With a first-time newly developed locked differential it was able to do 0-62mph in 5.22s, and with 285hp (82hp increase) by 968kg (137kg loss) it could hit 179mph down the Mulsanne straight at Le Mans.

The Aquila 8C RS was used for racing on the tarmac, however it was also used in rallies as homage to the previous but to not as much success, it did however place greatly in Le Mans and the international circuit races too, becoming a sports car legend.

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Specifications

Arion Aquila 8C {LX} '64

Chassis: Corrosion Resistant Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (1105kg - 52F/48R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 5 Gear Manual or 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone (F&R) Hydropneumatic suspension and Twin-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 3.0L V8 32-Valve DOHC producing 202.8hp @ 6,200RPM & 188.6lb-ft 4,000RPM with 6,500RPM redline
Economy: 22.6mpg combined (18.4mpg City and 26.8mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 6.55s & 163mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 15 inch Magnesium rims on radial sports compound (P195/70R15 98W)
Brakes: 300mm 2 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 300mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 2 door coupe - Luxury 4 Seater & Luxury AM Radio
Price: For sale starting at 9,000GBP before paint and accessories in '64

Arion Aquila 8C {RS} '64

Chassis: Corrosion Resistant Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (968kg - 53F/47R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 5 Gear Manual
Suspension: Double Wishbone (F&R) Hydropneumatic suspension and Twin-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 3.0L V8 32-Valve DOHC producing 284.6hp @ 7,000RPM & 223.8lb-ft 5,900RPM with 7,500RPM redline
Economy: 20.7mpg combined (17.6mpg City and 23.7mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 5.22s & 179mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 15 inch Magnesium rims on radial sports compound (P195/70R15 98Y)
Brakes: 300mm 2 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 300mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 2 door coupe - Sport 2 Seater & No Radio
Price: For sale starting at 10,000GBP before paint and accessories in '64 (Limited to 250 cars)

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Gallery

abg7 · 5 October 2021 17:13

The '64 Aquila 8C not only reminds me of a Series 1 E-Type, but is also very far ahead of its time - a 3.0L 32V DOHC V8 would have been unheard of back then, considering that most V8s back then were either OHC or OHV with no more than 2 valves per cylinder.

Hshan · 5 October 2021 17:14

Fcuk. A naming conflict I didn’t realise I’ve used Aquila too as a brand.

Great designs with some cool tech underneath (DOHC V16 in the 60s ). Also, I’m happy that there is some active European premium brand

Aruna · 5 October 2021 19:48

It’s fine, Aquila is used in Xepy’s brand too, I don’t mind having same name as others used, it happens in real life too. Arion uses astronomy and bird names for car names most often!

Their tech with the DOHC has been used for the 1960 ARD16 (Goodwood Festival of Speed display) so now they’re utilising it to the max!

Hshan · 5 October 2021 20:11

Nice. Now I can’t wait to see your Arion Aquila compete one day with my Aquila GT when I build it (and I plan to fit a V16 there, though less advanced) BTW, does the Aquila line exist in the modern day? If so it would be a convenient reference in my writeup for some too-long-waiting car.

Aruna · 5 October 2021 20:17

Yep it certainly will be! Should I even reach the 2020s

Aruna · 30 July 2022 21:32

Virgo 4C & 8C 1966

Affordable premium motoring for the people.

Shown in Racing Red with Glaze White two tone

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Introduced in 1966: the Arion Virgo’s second generation. Improving and advancing upon all aspects of the original whilst making it more of a “people’s luxury car” icon.

A brand new monocoque chassis was built up utilising galvanisation techniques compared to the usual expensive corrosion resistant coatings. The suspension layout was changed to having a single transversely mounted leaf spring at the rear for improvements to load capacity and cargo space.

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(Left to right) Shown in Hazelnut/Glaze White two tone, Racing Red/Glaze White two tone, Aquamarine/Glaze White two tone

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The Virgo was offered in two engine trim grades: 4C & 8C. The 1.5L Inline 4 base trim was the best sold with over 3,000 units in the first year of production ordered. It came as either a 4 door saloon, 5 door estate or 4 door cabriolet. The 3.0L V8 touring/sports trim came only as a 4 door saloon with the middle rear seat taken away for more space and weight reduction.

Somewhat improved performance came with the 4C: A 0-60 time of 14.9s and top speed of just over 100mph achieved showed the first generation Virgo who’s boss now. However the 8C was no slouch in comparison: 0-60 in 6.3s and a top speed of 140mph+, it was one of the fastest 4 door saloons of it’s age in Great Britain.

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Shown in Racing Red with Glaze White two tone

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On the inside, the plush interior came with either a 3-gear automatic or much more common 4-gear manual box (with the 8C having 5-gear manual or 3-gear automatic). Air conditioning was standard, as well as the Motorola AM radio with single speaker. Ample storage is available with two key-lock closed dashboard storage areas and an open storage area in the middle too.

Jaiden Electrical provided the gauges and electrical systems within the Virgo for the first time ever, with Arion previously using their own though somewhat flawed electronics. This in turn bolstered reliability for the cars and brand too, making for a new partnership with Jaiden Electrical in the long run.

The timepiece once found only on Luxury Lane models was now standard, with the Luxury Lane namesake discontinued in the time being.

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Shown in British Racing Green with Piano Black two tone

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Arion’s 1.5L I4 was somewhat special, a “quarter” engine as it could be called. The block was derived just from the gigantic 6L V16 used to power the land yacht Arion Mythos similar to how the 3.0L V8 was a “half” engine derived from it also.

In favour of updating their older technology to new, the 8-Valve OHC top end was discarded in favour of the SOHC 8-Valve for improved efficiency and performance. An incredible 15.6mpg improvement was made over the first generation’s cast iron 2.2L inline 4.

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Shown in Sea Blue with Beige two tone

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As a whole the reception of the second generation Virgo was successful, providing leaps into new markets with the lower cost of the entry-level premium 4C, as well as providing fans of the prestigious sporty side a new desirable British brute with a fantastic V8 engine exhaust note and impressive performance to boot.

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Specifications

Arion Virgo 4C Saloon {PM} '66

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (926kg - 53F/47R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 4 Gear Manual or 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone front & (Single transverse) Solid Axle Leaf Spring rear Progressive suspension and Gas Mono-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 1.5L I4 8-Valve SOHC producing 63.4hp @ 4,400RPM & 90.5lb-ft 2,700RPM with 5,000RPM redline
Economy: 38.6mpg combined (32.7mpg City and 44.4mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 14.9s & 95mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 14 inch Steel rims on radial medium compound (P155/90R14 91Q)
Brakes: 215mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 185mm SLS Drum rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door saloon - Premium 5 Seater & Premium AM Radio
Price: For sale starting at 1,300GBP before paint and accessories in '66

Arion Virgo 4C Estate {PM} '66

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (943kg - 57F/43R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 4 Gear Manual or 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone front & (Single transverse) Solid Axle Leaf Spring rear Progressive suspension and Gas Mono-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 1.5L I4 8-Valve SOHC producing 63.4hp @ 4,400RPM & 90.5lb-ft 2,700RPM with 5,000RPM redline
Economy: 36.9mpg combined (31.4mpg City and 42.3mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 15.7s & 91mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 14 inch Steel rims on radial medium compound (P155/90R14 91A)
Brakes: 215mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 185mm SLS Drum rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 5 door estate - Premium 5 Seater & Premium AM Radio
Price: For sale starting at 1,350GBP before paint and accessories in '66

Arion Virgo 4C Cabriolet {PM} '66

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (1139kg - 51F/49R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 4 Gear Manual or 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone front & (Single transverse) Solid Axle Leaf Spring rear Progressive suspension and Gas Mono-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 1.5L I4 8-Valve SOHC producing 63.4hp @ 4,400RPM & 90.5lb-ft 2,700RPM with 5,000RPM redline
Economy: 35.3mpg combined (29.4mpg City and 41.1mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 18.2s & 95mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 14 inch Steel rims on radial medium compound (P155/90R14 91Q)
Brakes: 215mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 185mm SLS Drum rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door manual soft top cabriolet - Premium 5 Seater & Premium AM Radio
Price: For sale starting at 1,375GBP before paint and accessories in '66

Arion Virgo 8C Saloon {PM} '66

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (1069kg - 52F/48R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 5 Gear Manual or 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone front & (Single transverse) Solid Axle Leaf Spring rear Progressive suspension and Gas Mono-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 3L V8 32-Valve DOHC producing 180.8hp @ 5,800RPM & 195.4lb-ft 3,500RPM with 6,500RPM redline
Economy: 29.4mpg combined (25.2mpg City and 33.5mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 6.3s & 134mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 15 inch Magnesium rims on radial sport compound (P175/70R15 92V)
Brakes: 275mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 245mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door saloon - Premium 4 Seater & Premium AM Radio
Price: For sale starting at 2,410GBP before paint and accessories in '66

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Gallery

Virgo 4C

Racing Red with Glaze White two tone

Sea Blue with Beige two tone

Royal Red with Piano Black two tone

Virgo 8C

British Racing Green with Piano Black two tone

Interiors

Beige & Dark Oak (4C)

Chocolate & Birch Wood (4C)

Black & Dark Oak (8C)

Hshan · 30 July 2022 23:09

Arion’s back!

That 8C is a proper super sedan. Really nice interior, but what is that black hole at the tip of the gear lever? Also wasn’t there any mid-range engine option? Adding two cylinders to that quarter…

Aruna · 31 July 2022 09:03

Yes, finally back

That black hole is just the black leather shifter

This is actually not a bad idea! 2.25L Inline 6 Virgo coming up sometime soon!

Restomod · 31 July 2022 20:00

A 16V 4-banger could also work pretty well.

Aruna · 11 August 2022 10:50

Virgo 6C 1966 (+Variants)

Affordable premium motoring for the people.

Shown in Celeste Blue with Platinum two tone

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In addition to the Virgo 4C & 8C was the 2.25L Inline 6 powered Virgo 6C. Right in the middle of the more budget oriented 4C and premium sporty 8C, the 6C was aimed more towards families with a bit more money who desired more grunt from their motor without sacrificing economy or practicality.

In essence the 6C was sporty enough to be called a budget pony car for the Great British market: Weighing just 1000kg and powered by 94hp with a whopping 156.2lb-ft of torque, it was able to get off the line up to 60mph in 10.6s making it quite a potent force against rivals.

Much like the 8C, the 6C shared the mechanical limited slip differential, which aided it’s strong acceleration and cornering ability. With this in mind the Virgo 6C got it’s own limited edition: Intent for the British Touring Car Championship.

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Shown in British Racing Green

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The BTCC edition shared the 8C’s 5-gear transmission, magnesium alloys and uprated 275mm front brakes. For weight reduction: the rear seats had their seatbelts and cushioning as well as the hydraulic power steering removed and bumpers on the exterior taken off too.

Headlight tape was used on the main headlights to avoid glass shattering over the track in a collision or heated nudge toward other drivers. The bonnet and boot also had their hinges removed in favour of pins to further aid weight reduction all the way to 881kg.

These featherweight changes as well as the tuned inline 6 engine rated at 169hp made the BTCC model able to hit 128mph and hit 60mph in 6.55s, which made it a strong force to reckon with in the touring car championships.

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Shown in Aquamarine with Glaze White two tone

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The Great British police force used the Virgo 4C as some of their patrol cars. Favoured for their simple engines and mass production parts as well as handling ability in chasing crooks, the Virgo shone well in the eyes of the rozzers and even the underworld!

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Shown in Glaze White w/Jaiden Electrical & Castroil sponsor livery

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The 4C trim was also transformed into a rally edition: Making an uprated 74hp by reduced weight of 904kg, paired to the LSD and re-geared transmission for maximum acceleration along with removed power steering, it provided a pure driving experience on the offroad and tarmac sections.

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Specifications

Arion Virgo 6C Saloon {PM} '66

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (1000kg - 56F/44R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 4 Gear Manual or 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone front & (Single transverse) Solid Axle Leaf Spring rear Progressive suspension and Gas Mono-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 2.25L I6 12-Valve SOHC producing 93.7hp @ 3,800RPM & 156.2lb-ft 2,200RPM with 5,000RPM redline
Economy: 42mpg combined (33.9mpg City and 50.1mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 10.6s & 102mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 14 inch Steel rims on radial medium compound (P155/90R14 91R)
Brakes: 235mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 235mm SLS Drum rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door saloon - Premium 5 Seater & Premium AM Radio
Price: For sale starting at 1,919GBP before paint and accessories in '66

Arion Virgo 6C BTCC '66

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (881kg - 53F/47R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 5 Gear Manual
Suspension: Double Wishbone front & (Single transverse) Solid Axle Leaf Spring rear Progressive suspension and Gas Mono-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 2.25L I6 12-Valve SOHC producing 169.4hp @ 7,400RPM & 131.9lb-ft 6,000RPM with 8,000RPM redline
Economy: 30.3mpg combined (23.9mpg City and 36.6mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 6.5s & 128mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 15 inch Magnesium rims on radial sports compound (P175/70R15 92H)
Brakes: 275mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 235mm Solid Disk rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door saloon - Sport 2 Seater & Premium AM Radio
Price: N/A (3,029GBP in '66)

Arion Virgo 4C Police '66

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (926kg - 53F/47R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 4 Gear Manual or 3 Gear Automatic
Suspension: Double Wishbone front & (Single transverse) Solid Axle Leaf Spring rear Progressive suspension and Gas Mono-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 1.5L I4 8-Valve SOHC producing 63.4hp @ 4,400RPM & 90.5lb-ft 2,700RPM with 5,000RPM redline
Economy: 38.6mpg combined (32.7mpg City and 44.4mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 14.9s & 95mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 14 inch Steel rims on radial medium compound (P155/90R14 91Q)
Brakes: 215mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 185mm SLS Drum rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door saloon - Premium 5 Seater & Premium AM Radio
Price: N/A (1,300GBP in '66)

Arion Virgo 4C Rally '66

Chassis: Galvanised Steel Monocoque with Aluminium panels (904kg - 51F/49R)
Drivetrain: Front Longitudinal RWD
Gearbox: 4 Gear Manual
Suspension: Double Wishbone front & (Single transverse) Solid Axle Leaf Spring rear Progressive suspension and Gas Mono-Tube Damping with Passive Sway Bars
Engine: Aluminium 1.5L I4 8-Valve SOHC producing 73.6hp @ 4,800RPM & 99.6lb-ft 2,600RPM with 5,000RPM redline
Economy: 44mpg combined (36mpg City and 51.9mpg Motorway)
Performance: 0-62mph in 12.3s & 94mph estimated top speed
Wheels: 14 inch Magnesium rims on radial all terrain compound (P155/90R14 94Q)
Brakes: 215mm 1 Piston Caliper Solid Disk front & 185mm SLS Drum rear
Exterior layout & Interior: 4 door saloon - Premium 4 Seater & Premium AM Radio
Price: N/A (1,300GBP in '66)

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Gallery

Virgo 6C

Celeste Blue with Platinum two tone