Exactly
SAETA Engineering
Pushing the limits of design
SAETA current state
While the first generation of the Albor was selling in decent numbers since it´s release, no one was completely satisfied at SAETA headquarters. They could never build enough cars to compete with the bigger companies, and as a premium manufacturer they hadn´t found a market niche yet.
Creating a whole new different product became the new priority of the company, and soon, the engineering department came up with something.
Front wheel drive architectures were dropped after trials of competitor cars. Understeer and lower powered engines meant that the ride would be rather lifeless, and at SAETA we believed cars should be exciting. So rear wheel drive was kept, but without that pesky solid rear axle that compromised handling so much. A novel independent rear suspension, based on the experience from the Albor Carrera Coupe design, was used.
And to power this we would no longer use that primitive pushrod unit. Now, in place of it, there was an all-alloy, twin cam engine. This rather exotic powertrain would be first installed in a small production sports car, so any teething problems could be fixed before using this technology in our mainstream products, which were started to be developed nontheless.
SAETA Tronada
A rather stricking design on the outside, coupled with the new SAETA developments under the skin. Powered by a 1800cc engine, performance even in it´s base form was quite good. The interior was, in SAETA fashion, of a premium nature, with lots of leather around the two lucky people that could fit inside of this car.
But if you don´t have enough with the standard Tronada, we can offer you something too:
The convertible version was coupled with a 2 litre version of our twin cam engine, while we could have made it much more powerful, we decided to tune it for a more relaxed driving experience, which is what convertibles are about. It´s also tuned 91 fuel, since the bigger engine proved less sensible to lower octane fuel and this meant you could save some money. And finally, the Tronada Sprint. Keeping the smaller engine for better handling but tuned for more power, thanks to a Weber carburettor and a less restricting exhaust. Coils and dampers were revised too so you could be untouchable in curvy roads, where the Sprint felt like at home.
SAETA Albor Viajante 4T
The good old Albor Viajante, a commonly seen car here in Letara, has been turned a capable off-road machine. Featuring 4-wheel drive (not based at all on the locally produced Jeeps), raised ride and several changes to the bodywork, the Viajante 4T proves the adaptability of the design.
The engine is new too. While it´s not the twin cam engine recently developed, it has now a rework of the old pushrod engine, moving the cam from the block to the head. We kept the iron block, since most buyers in this segment prefer the dependability of this proven design, but the alloy OHC head has given a new life to the previously rather mundane engine.
SAETA 2000
Arriving at Letara in 1959 (a year before the Tronada arrival), it would feature the mechanical bits of that car but covered with a much more racey body, designed with advanced aerodynamics in mind such as the recently discovered Kammback tail design.
The engine, while originally meant to be the twin cam, couldn´t be bored out to 2 liters (considered the mininum to be competitive at this racing division) and keep enough strenght. Basically, we couldn´t find anyone that could manufacture such engine block with the specs we wanted, and resigned to use an iron block. Hopefully, Letara´s high speed track won´t be mean to this understeery machine.
16 Likes
Saeta got a new fan here, the Tronada design is:
A B S O L U T E L Y M A R V E L O U S !
Can i…can i have one?
3 Likes
To replace the Wanderer, Wolfram introduced the Wyvern in 1959 as a more upmarket product. Powered by an all-new 3.5-liter I6 developing 200 bhp (on 98 RON super leaded) thanks to aluminum DOHC heads (with 2 valves per cylinder) and three carburetors, this was a far sleeker, faster and sportier machine than its predecessors.
In keeping with its upmarket positioning, the Wyvern was fitted with a premium interior, with genuine wood and leather trim, plus an AM radio to keep the two occupants entertained on the move, especially at its top speed of 134 mph - making it the fastest car the company had ever made at the time. And with a 0-60 time of 7.5 seconds, it was also their quickest yet.
(Note: The lore stated above is a retcon of previously written lore due to the unofficial abandonment of the Automation Legacy Challenge, for which the Wyvern had originally been designed).
8 Likes
Mara goes (back to) Letara, Ep. 2-4
6th September 1962
Office of Mara’s chief development engineer, Mara main factory grounds, just outside the town of Mara, Archana
Mara production engineer Mykhaylo Andov knocked on the door of the office of Fedor Piechov, Mara’s Comrade Director of Engineering, and entered after a gruff “Yes?” by Fedor.
“Is this about the production issues for the upcoming Irena?” Fedor did not waste time to get to the point.
Mykhaylo nodded.
“Then let’s call in Comrade Rodyn as well.” Fedor pressed a button on a device on his desk and spoke a few words into a microphone. After a short while, Rodyn Gumprov, leading development engineer for the new Irena project, joined them.
Getting ready for the launch of the new Mara Irena in 1963
Mykhaylo began his report. “The preparations to put the newly developed Irena into production for 1963 are going along well. However, we are still having issues getting the new engine factory for the new 2 litre Perspekt engine ready. We simply cannot find enough workers for both our new factories, and we are prioritising car production over engine production, obviously.”
The 4.3m length Irena was the next step up from the Tovarysh / Companion for Archanan family cars
“This means?” A hint of impatience entered Fedor’s voice.
“If we want to keep the January 1963 launch date, we will only be able to launch the Irena with the 1.3 litre Konyk engine carried over from the Tovarysh”, Mykhaylo answered. “We should have enough spare capacity in the Konyk engine plant, right?”
Rodyn nodded. “In the worst case, we will have to run a few extra shifts. When will the new engine plant be ready?”
“Early next year - so we can actually start producing on a larger scale in March or April or so the latest. That should work for the pre-orders of the 2.0 Irenas.”
“Makes sense - at least we don’t have to delay the Irena’s general market introduction, especially since we already started switching the Letaran plant from assembling Tovaryshs - or Companions - to Irenas.” Rodyn looked to Fedor whether he would have additional questions.
Fedor had a few. “The model range stays the same? Irena sedan, wagon and van? Just with 1.3 litre engines only?”
The wide rear doors for wagon and van necessitated different rear light clusters compared to the sedan. Here the versions for the Letaran market
Mykhaylo nodded. “No issues there. We might have to limit trim choice to Regular and Komfort as well as colours for the first year, and the build quality may be a bit sketchy on the earliest production models. It takes a surprising long time for the new workers to get to grips with modern car production.”
“I think we have been spoiled over the last years, having started with a set of experienced workers right after the war, and then having any new folks being trained by the old guard.” Fedor allows himself a thin smile. “The first new factory is always the hardest, I hear.” He had one more question, for Rodyn this time. “How is the plant conversion in Letara going on?”
“Quite well, actually”, Rodyn replied. “Inna reports that the slow past years only producing for export to Somunds were a blessing in disguise since they could take their time to iron out any issues with facilities and staff. Now the plant is a well-oiled machine, just gearing up to assemble something else again. We are only going to have slightly different rear light clusters, but everything else can stay unchanged between what we produce here and we can sell over there.” He also allows himself a thin smile. “The first assembly plant also seems to be the hardest.”
Fedor frowned. “Anything else from Letara? Haven’t even thought about that place for a while…”
“Only one thing, perhaps. As you recall, they started a new circuit racing series on their new racetrack a few years after we pulled out. There is one privateer entry who had bought Henri Nordhov’s yellow Cannonball Companion prototype car back then. For whatever reason, he seems to have given the car a complete internal overhaul to make it compliant with the series rules and has now been running that car in the series ever since.”
Fedor’s frown deepened for a short while as he pondered why anyone would want to rebuild a worn out ten year old Tovarysh prototype into a racecar. His own winning car was somewhere in storage in the main factory in Mara, and they had left Rodyn’s three-times winning car in a corner in the Letaran assembly plant after the last Cannonball event. “That chap might be a good contact if we ever decide to go racing again over there”, Fedor pondered while he drew a mental image of how that competition car had looked like back then.
The yellow Companion prototype at the hand of Mara’s Comrade Executive Director was the only one of Mara’s three Cannonball participants to never achieve victory
6 Likes
When your letter to Mara was ignored despite being sent in 1955 
From Rhania, we introduce the new Hunter series!
Introducing the Hunter Type-T:
Stats:
HP: 110 HP
LB-FT: 118 Horsepower
MPG: 16.7 MPG
Top speed: 86.2 MPH
Towing capacity: 1731 LBS
Load capacity: 7031.3 LBS
Price: $12,700
Service costs: $529.6
This vehicle was made for those in the agricultural field. For the farmers that help feed all of the Letarians with their livestock and produce. This truck is made in mind to be able to go over bogs and overcome rough terrain while being able to hook up to a trailer, scraper, plow, or reapers.
While others produce their ideas of a “truck”; a car that was chopped up into a truck. We at Rhania have made a purpose built truck that can withstand the rough environment while being a useful truck. The design is masculine and speaks power with its bold presence filling the room allowing everyone else to know that this is a truck for both work and play.
Introducing the Hunter Type-S
Stats:
HP: 205 HP
LB-FT: 226 LB-FT
MPG: 16.2 MPG
Top speed: 118 MPH
Towing capacity: 2388 LBS
Load capacity: 5942.8 LBS
Price: $25,400
Service costs: $1046.2
This vehicle is made for those who need to scout the area with 4 seats well versed for 4 adults who are hunting, camping, or trailing. This vehicle allows a compromise between being a rugged vehicle and a comfortable vehicle. This SUV can traverse through the rough trails with ease and is made suitable for those who need a vehicle to go quickly through the woods hunting bucks, setting a camp, fishing for the market, or for those who live in the country and work in the city.
Introducing the Hunter Type-F
Stats:
HP: 267 HP
LB-FT: 260 LB-FT
MPG: 13.2 MPG
Top speed: 130 MPH
Towing capacity: 3225 LBS
Load capacity: 4888.5 LBS
Price: $30,900
Service costs: $1,174.7
This vehicle is made for the family of Letara for the rural areas and places that have been hit hard by the earthquake. This SUV is made to allow families to transport to different places with ease as it can seat 7 people comfortably while being able to carry lots of equipment on board.
This vehicle can be used by many companies to transport medical supplies, transport employees, carry important people, or even haul kids to school with its safety rating of 35.2.
The multitude of families would increase as the years go on, and so this would be the ideal vehicle for families to carry their children as it is safe, efficient, and useful in its design.
3 Likes
Immortalle Presents the Arete line of luxury sedans and Utes.
Manufactured domestically in Letara for Letarans.
See your local Immortalle Dealer for details.
8 Likes
Another letter to Mara,1963
“Dear Mara,”
“May you please respond to our letter regarding a possible collaboration in the near future?”
“We could use this opportunity to grow and expand our spheres of influence across Letara. Mara would not have to worry about the manufacturing of your vehicles while Rhania would be able to gain awareness with this cooperation.”
“Rhania has assumed that you have read our initial terms of what we could do together with the main one being about you gaining engineering expertise while we get a presence in Letara.”
“We shall reiterate what we had said in the first letter to Mara with an increased focus on education, increase for shipping industries, a stronger military force, and some influence of car regulations.”
“All of these would benefit the both of us and we can become the dominant force to be reckoned with in the car industry. Simply send an ambassador of Mara to meet with an ambassador from Rhania in Warsaw, Poland and we can work out the details.”
“Until then, Cada macaco para seu próprio ramo”
“Sincerely signed, Morello Bastian the ambassador of the Rhania motor company”
1 Like
FOR CONSUMERS: THE 1960 PRIMUS ASTRONA 2400
Our newest product is that little sedan you shouldn’t underestimate. It’s benefits are:
- Monocoque-built
- Brand new six-cylinder engine with a healthy 111 horsepower
- Wood and leather interior for a premium feel
- front disc brakes
- padded dashboard and steering wheel for maximum security, seatbelts are included in the price and can be dealer-installed
Now see the Astrona being driven hard:
The interior might not be the most spacious, but this sporty car fits sporty drivers best anyway.
For Letara, the Astrona 2400 Export model comes with the following changes:
- Right mirror is standard
- Different taillights due to local regulations
We considered changing the engine to run on unleaded fuel, but as regular leaded is the most common and available everywhere, we kept the engine as it was in non-Export spec.
That car surely brings the fun to you - there is a reason why it’s one of the safest in it’s class - it can be driven hard and affordable fun was our main goal in the developement. But don’t tell your boss you drive an Astrona 2400 - there will be no more excuses for being late!
9 Likes
Introducing the Levante Grifo
Cars aren’t just a mean to get from A to B in a somewhat comfy way. Cars are meant to ignite passion, to bring fun and refinement to the everyday experience of their owner, to make a man proud of owning a car, not a meager appliance.
The new Grifo is made for this. For handling every turn like a true sports car, for bringing fun to motoring in every situation, and for doing it at an approachable price. Because you wont find a car this fun and good at a better price than the Grifo!
And for the price, you get a lot of refinement too. All our models ride on a new unibody chassis, with the Levante trademark of all-around indipendent suspension, Tirelli high preformance tyres as standard, and rack-and-pinion steering for sublime handling performance!
Here is the full line-up of Grifo models:
'58 Grifo 1750
The base Grifo model comes equipped with the “1750” overhead camshaft engine, mated to a Degl’Orti W38D double choke carburettor for greater responsiveness and drive pleasure. 90 HP might not seem impressive, but paired with the lightweight design of the Grifo, guarantees excellent all-around performance. The high quality interior assures the modern gentelmen that no compromise have been made on this little, fast machine. And with a price tag of 14,300 $ (Letaran dollars, of course), this is the fastest bargain you have ever driven!
'59 Grifo 1750 Barchetta Aut.
The queen of the summer, the Barchetta is a more relaxed, touring-driven way to enjoy your Grifo. A 3-speed Borg-Wagner automatic gearbox is mated to an up-rated 94HP version of the “1750” engine, creating a new way to drive en souplesse. While lacking the purity of the coupe version, the Barchetta offers the charm of an open-top, and the relaxing experience of a comfort drive, without renouncing to sporty demeanor when called upon by it’s driver. For the low price of 15,200 $, you can live the Gran Tourer experience, for a fraction of the price!
'61 Grifo 2400 GTS
Everything good about the Grifo, made even better in a single, over the top package. The new 2.4 liter “Tipo 6” engine is mated to a triple single-choke carb set up, pumping up near 130 HP in the smoothest way possible. Which means an under 9 seconds 0-60 time, and a top speed of over 190 km/h. The latest entry in rim technology, magnesium construction, is used on the Grifo GTS rims, making them a cutting-edge item. A better refined interior with a new, more powerful radio is adopted, for an even more comfortable joyride. This is the ultimate Grifo. And while it is expensive at 18,200 $, the incredible experience it offers is well worth the high price. This is the definitive lightweight sportscar!
Make your motoring dreams come true, get yourself in a Grifo!
16 Likes
LIBERTY CORP. 1955 LINEUP
Distributed by Liberty Corp.
Our Impact on Letara
In 1948, Liberty Corp. changed the Letaran market with the Liberty Civilian Wagon, one of the highest selling family cars produced in that era. It is no surprise that the Civilian became an icon in Letara. It featured the latest safety technology, while being capable of fitting even the largests families. This year, we plan to continue with our principles of safety and family, while branching out to new markets.
Our Next Contributions to Letara
After the recent opening of the national park, Liberty Corp. has decided to contribute by supplying modified versions of the Liberty Familia that are able to traverse the national park to help improve the well being of the flora, fauna, and your visit. Expect to possibly see them on the road soon.
Liberty Familia
The Liberty Familia is the succesor to the civilian, with it featuring newer safety features, and a new AM radio. It still has 8 seats for your family, with each one having lap belts. The Liberty Familia keeps the iconic design of the previous generation, but manages not to look dated. It is priced at 14,750 AMU after taxes.
Specifications
- 3.0L Inline 6
- 75 Horsepower
- 127 lb-ft torque
- Manual 3 Speed Transmission
- 8 Seats
- AM Radio
- Advanced Safety Features
Liberty Phoenix
The Liberty Phoenix is our premium sports car. It contains a 4 Liter V8, producing 180 Horsepower. It can achieve a top speed of 110 MPH, and can achieve 0-60 in 11.5 seconds. It features a light, but still comfortable, interior with four seats. It is priced at 22,195 AMU after taxes. It has a racing brother that will be featured on the new Lerance Raceway, so look out for that!
Specifications
Base Vehicle
- 4.0L V8
- 180 Horsepower
- 196 lb-ft torque
- RWD
- 4 Speed Manual Transmission
- 110 MPH
- 0-60 11.5 Seconds
- AM Radio
- Safety Features
Racing Vehicle
ALL INFORMATION REGARDING THE LIBERTY RACER IS CLASSIFIED AND IS ONLY KNOWN BY OUR ENGINEERS
Liberty New Yorker
Our last car in the main line-up, but definetly not the least, is the Liberty New Yorker. The New Yorker will be the car that defines luxury in Letara. When you dream about being rich, the New Yorker will be the car you will drive. When you think of a celebrity, you know that they will be driving, or be driven in, a Liberty New Yorker. It features a hand crafted luxurious interior, with a record player allowing you to choose the songs. The New Yorker is sleek, comfortable, soft… It has everything you need in a car! The pricing starts at 27,170 AMU after taxes.
Specifications
- 3.5L Inline 6
- 120 Horsepower
- 180 ft-lb of torque
- 2 Speed Automatic Transmission
- Hand Crafted Leather, Brass, and Wood Interior
- AM Radio
- Built-In Phonograph
- Advanced Safety Features
Liberty Corp. Advertising and Engineering Department, 1953
Building 420, 69th Avenue
Philidelphia, PA, USA
+1-215-xxx-xxxx
In the office (Lore)
A continuation of the 1952 sales report.
The engineers entered Peterson’s office. “I’d like to have a word with you. Don’t worry, you’re not in trouble.” The engineers sat down. Peterson places the sales reports in front of the engineers. “It appears that the wagon we produced was phenomonal success. However, the base sedan and the truck we sent out did not perform well in sales”. Peterson paused and gave a glare at the engineers. “Make sure to tell the person who designed the Artisian that he’s fired. Because of him we lost millions” The engineers gave a worried but swift nod.
“Let’s continue. I believe that it is obvious that we need to continue to producing the family wagon. Just make sure to keep it cheap. Not too cheap though… we don’t want to ruin our reputation as a premium brand.” The engineers, once again, nodded. “Speaking of a premium reputation, I want you to make us premium- no, luxury car.” He let out a little grin.
The engineers looked at him with a concerned looks. One of them started speaking. “Sir, I don’t that would be the best idea… the Letaran economy is ruin! Who is going to buy one?” he asked.
“Oh, I know we’re not going to sell that much. It’s most likely going to be only sold to the ultra rich. It could get sold to some celebrities, or maybe the president will drive it. Who knows? It’s essentially free advertising for our common cars so that they appear more luxurious. It helps build up a reputation.” The engineers looked at him, and fully undestood what he meant. “Hell, make sure to go all out if you can!” Peterson let out a little chuckle as the room filled with silence. “Any questions?”
The engineers looked at each other. One of them stood up. “There is this passion project we have started to work on.” He started to say “It’s a sports car! We were hoping that you would approve it for production. It is most likely only going to be sold in the states. But maybe we could send some to Letara and start building a sporty reputation!”
“Last time I let you engineers fool around, you created a 3 seater truck that couldn’t do shit!” He looked at them with anger. They looked back at him with concern. Peterson quickly calmed down as a lightbulb went off in his head. “You do have a point about the sporty reputation. Maybe we could put it in the next cannoball run and hope for a win!” The engineers let out a small smile.
“Thank you,” one of them said.
“Your welcome, now go make me something good! You are dismissed!”. The engineers ran out of the room with happiness. Peterson continued smoking his cigar and started reading the newspaper.
15 Likes
honestly, that’s a nice car.
So to clarify, the car model and engine family must still be from 1959, even if the car/engine is based on an older model production car?
With the rule as written, yes everything should be 1959. However, if you have an older model/family you’re just shooting yourself in the foot, so I won’t exclude the car from racing. Younger means you’re out, of course.
3 Likes
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Following on from 1955, the successful Vizzuri campaigns to Letara's growth and development:
- No luxury tax
- 24hr racing at Vizzuri Raceway Costa Lerance {Known as Lerance Raceway, since Vizzuri was not the largest contributor to funding}
- Ethanol to be used in race cars & civilian cars
- No fuel economy tax
- Lobby for wing mirrors on both sides
- Lobby against speed limits in non-thru town/city areas & highways
- Lobby to move onto radials
Vizzuri decided to build a car assembly plant, (located on site at the raceway, if @cake_ape is ok with this) but are debating to level up to a full car factory.
The brand was doing fairly well in the home country of Italy, though the brutish performance and flashy styling actually catered to imports doing well in the USA, paired with the premium market dwindling out in Letara, the new Vizzuri lineup changed:
Firstly the development of a completely new car to replace the outdated Vizzuri Special came finally in 1958: Vizzuri Laonda Special.
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Vizzuri Laonda Special '58
Shown in Metallico Blu Scuro/Bianco two tone with Black cloth interior
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Replacing the first generation Special: Vizzuri begun production of the new Laonda Special in 1958 accompanied with two other variants, the Prestazione and Vantaggio.
The new Laonda Special is a vast improvement over the Special. Laonda means wave in Italian, with the intent to capture the luxury flair and comfort of American cars, the Laonda is more prestigious and luxurious, along with more expensive.
It features a stylish pillarless design, striking fins and shape, with a lavishing of chrome all over, displaying wealth and notability wherever you drive. The inside is now padded to the heavens with all around luxury seating and AM radio. It also includes the option of a manual 4-gear transmission or the new 3-gear automatic for much more comforting driving.
The exterior features many luxury accessories as standard: Daytime running lights integrated to the front bumper whilst twin-reverse lights on the rear bumper, white wall tyres, twin-antenna for boosted signal AM radio, hidden fuel cap on the rear below the boot lid for a flush appearance, and lighting for the licence plate front and rear.
The new Laonda Special is much more luxurious than ever, but has not lost the sportiness that a sports saloon should have. It is able to reach 60mph in 8.5s through the 3-gear automatic, and reach over 130mph.
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Vizzuri Laonda Prestazione '58
Shown in Metallico Rosso Cabaret/Bianco two tone with Black cloth interior
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The second trim offered in the Laonda line is the sleek pillarless 2-door coupe Prestazione (Performance). It is much more focused on sports than the luxury Special offering, with an increase to power rated at 262hp @ 5500rpm versus the Special and Vantaggio’s 258hp.
Fitted with a 4-gear manual and sports compound tyres, it is able to reach 60 in 7.7s, and speed all the way up to and over 140mph. Within testing on Letaras highways when in the no-limit segments, it was recorded to have achieved 152mph! All whilst being reliable with extra cooling from the bonnet scoops.
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Vizzuri Laonda Vantaggio '58
Shown in Arancione Del Tramonto/Bianco two tone with Black cloth interior
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The third trim offered in the Laonda line is the worker’s 2-door ute Vantaggio (Utility).
Derived from the same platform as all Laondas, the Vantaggio is a strange sports utility truck, having double wishbones in all four corners makes it handle just as well as the coupe and saloon, in fact due to the weight reduction due to lesser materials used inside, it is able to match the Prestazione’s 0-60 time of 7.7s amazingly.
The Vantaggio may compromise some luxuries inside, but is able to haul 1275kg in the tray, as well as tow 1069kg of weight behind. It is much better over rough terrain thanks to the lifted suspension, offroad skidtray and an automatic locking differential.
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Vizzuri National AT02-G '55
Shown in Verde Militare with partial Dark Beige cloth interior
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Following feedback from Letara’s government on the unsuccessful AT01-G, they sought to rectify their relations in a new attempt with the AT02-G, quite a change from the original, it took form as a light utility vehicle compared to the bulbous van. Much more comfortable interior and slightly perkier performance were key changes over the AT01.
Vizzuri National AT01-C & AT01-G began production in 1955, a completely new chassis and body developed. The wheelbase was increased to 2.56m, but overhangs cut as short as possible for offroading whilst maintaining the rugged bumpers for safety. Unlike the AT01, the AT02 only uses 4x4, as RWD was considered underwhelming in testing for the vehicle’s use.
A new 3.0L Inline 6 motor was used, making 87hp @ 3200rpm, and 162lb-ft @ 2000rpm. The AT02 could achieve 70mph this time around, though still rather underwhelming with a 29.4s to 60mph, this was due to extremely low spacing to aid offroading & utilitarian needs.
The AT02 comes fully equipped for offroading with 4x4, manual locking differentials, chunky offroad tyres, skidtray, high lift suspension with soft springs and dampers. It also comes with five frontal foglamps (as well as the ones beside the front window being hand-operable.), roof rack, mudflaps, a spare fuel canister, manual air conditioning from panels that open below the front window, a towing winch on the front, mounting points on the front and rear bumpers, rear tow hitch, and rear reverse/foglamp through toggle switch.
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Vizzuri Drago '59
Shown in Metallico Blu Scuro with Black cloth & Dark wood interior
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Following the success of the Vizzuri 4700, it’s successor became the Vizzuri Drago. With the Lerance Raceway to be built in 1959, Dante and Zeno began to prototype the new race car well before 1959.
The 4.7L V8 used in the 4700 was extensively modified using experimental new 32 valve DOHC heads, a first for the brand they named the engine the “Quattrovalvole.” It is also the first Vizzuri to utilise disk brakes ever, and use radial slick tyres for extreme handling advantages. The interesting tri-fin setup was implemented to aid high-speed stability in cornering, whilst looking like something of a shark or dragon.
Also new for the brand was the Drago being their first midship car. The advantages of more weight on the rear aided performance making the car able to hit 60mph in 5.8s, then zoom all the way up to and past 160mph!
Dante and Zeno planned to enter the new Vizzuri Drago as an R2 class entry. The Scuderia Vizzuri team used #8 once again, and as a throwback to their two victories in the Potrunis Cannonball Run, a special decal was featured on the rear side of the car.
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20 Likes
Letara 1955 - Govt 4x4 Contract
Introducing DWA - Dupuis-Wolfe-Armstrong, a subsidiary of Wolfe working on lower trim models and utility vehicles. After weeks of preparation, DWA is ready to answer the Letaran RFP.
With the DWA Woodsman 4x4, you will never be lost and at risk in the woods. The rear include a side bench and a emergency bed with space for supplies and general storage, with a side access which could be needed in some situations. The large side window allows a lot of light in, but is also protected with a cage. Taking cues from forestry equipment, the front also has a protective cage to make sure no trunk or branches ruins your day in the wood.
Two space and extra fuel, plus cargo space on top, allows to be prepared at all time. The rear is also high enough and has underside support to slide in a ladder or any long equipment, shovels or the like.
With a 186 V8 powering it, it includes a front winch and it able to tow more than itself.
Never be lost with the Woodsman.
Letara 1956 - Wolfe Cerberus 250 Executive Convertible
Wolfe introduces its first convertible on the Letaran market. This 4 seats classy ride is comfortable and posh enough to impress the neighbors, but does not come with a huge price tag.
Powered by a 250 I6, nicknamed half-twelve as it is exactly half of the large 500 V12 that will be released in a few years. It offers 166hp and a very smooth ride with its 2-speed automatic.
It is built on the new Wolfe C-Platform, a DW/Solid Axle ladder frame with a 3m wheelbase. Enjoy your ride in the city, the highway or the countryside with the top down!
Letara 1959 - Wolfe Chupacabra 500 LE
Now we are talking! Wolfe is releasing its largest engine on the market with the Chupacabra 500 Limited Edition.
This paragon of luxury is sure to please the richest patrons of Letara. The C-Platform has been transformed with a very innovative rounded clear-glass top, and a lot of small extras compared to the base Cerberus model.
This exclusive beast is powered by an ultra-smooth V12 offering 260hp, a brand new 3-speed automatic and a top of the line phonograph with AM/PM radio. It has also been tuned to use brand new ethanol fuel available in any of the premium gas stations in the city.
While it is the priciest Wolfe model yet, it is also the most exclusive one. Do not miss this unique opportunity to showcase to the world your refined tastes.
Letara 1959 - Wolfe Racing 460
This unique race car is the second attempt of Wolfe to enter the Letaran race circuit. With a brand new track that has been financed in large part by Wolfe, it is proving time for Wolfe.
Based on a modified C-Platform that has been cut off to a 2.7m wheelbase, but also has been chopped heavily in the front and back. With a kammback shape and weird profile, tests made by Wolfe has been proven efficient to attain very high speeds.
Nothing much is yet known about the Wolfe 460, neither specs or the category it plans entering, but it is clear that Wolfe is ready to take on the track!
Letara 1960 - Wolfe Cerberus V8 313 Sport
It is now time to burn some rubber yourself! If you have refined tastes, but want to feel like a beast on the road, look no further than the Cerberus V8 313.
Built on the same C-Platform, this Cerberus trim has it all - comfort and performance! With a brand new facelift for the Cerberus line, this monster includes 2 comfortable seats in front and 2 smaller ones in the rear.
Like the Chupacabra, it has 260hp but it is made for performance - the brand new Lupine V8 is made all aluminium, block and head, and is tuned for responsivement and excitement. You get the same power but at nearly half the price of the Chupacabra!
You still have a taste of luxury inside, but the sportier interior suits this car better. Show your friends than muscle can come in style.
Wolfe - be crowned a king.
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Mrdja Cars Letara journey
Part 2: (Quirky) decisions
Meeting (with secretive employee)
In one of shops that was regarded as biggest and as such best choice for base until factory is built
-I want update on factory. How is it going so far, do we encounter any issues, is it ready to be full-blown factory on time?
-And i want Vizzuri Special…and yet, im unlikely to receive it.
-Well, considering it is from one of companies from here that isnt ours, im not entirely sure how it has any connection to our talk about factory.
-Its finest piece of Italian design.
Quint facepalmed as response.
-You have something against that fact, boss?
-Two things, in fact: it derails the conversation thats supposed to be about our factory and its not like used car ads dont exist.
-Used cars…right.
-ANYWAY, back to factory talk.
Factory talk had commenced, indeed, courtesy of young guy that happened to intern in hauling some important papers around.
-I shitted in one of toilets there. Nicest toilet i sat on in long time.
-Well not like you have proper toilet back home…
-True. And guess what: even has running water…and proper toilet paper.
-Have you, by some chance, visited some other parts of factory that arent a restroom.
-Yes, i have been in women’s restroom. My girlfriend and me had some fun…she was happy to report its super clean.
-…
-You know what, Quint, we could try that out sometimes…
-OMEGA!!!
Laughter had resulted. It was quite clear they are dating and it wasnt like they were particularly secret about it.
-Oh boy, boss, imagine fury of your GF when she hears this secretary is trying to hit on you.
-I have feeling she will find out about immideately…guys, can we for one time actually pretend to be professional or better yet BE professional?
-Well, toilets aside i do have visited other parts of factory…
-What, cafeteria is very nice place to eat and have fun with your GF?
-Well, yes, but…
Yup, more laughter
-…i was just about to say machines are standing still.
-Did your GF approved our assembly line?
-Dude, that is REALLY not in theme with our conversation.
-Yes, she did.
Laughter has resumed.
-Ok, now that our expert for fucking everywhere has spoken…(realising he chose wrong way to adress intern, resulting in laughter once again waiting for it to die down)…we should think about how to best utilise the factory.
-Well…by producing something?
-Yeah, but it seems we are already starting very strong in making babies
You know the reaction already
-Congrats, you are contagious.
-Thanks.
-Well, we made factory to produce vehicles. And so vehicles shall be produced.
I certainly would not want to foul down of that tax thingy this time around.
What are requirements for skipping the tax?
-Thats written on one of papers i brought here…lemme just check (sitting on the table, holding papers in lap)…hmm, taxes are indicated for unsafe cars and ones that use leaded fuel.
Wait…i was supposed to give them to someone else at table…“Quint Chitco” says the note.
(Stands up from table; trying to deduce who is Quint
Horror adorned his face upon realisation)
-Well atleast its related to theme of this meeting, not to toilets or GFs…
Hmmm…what do we want to put into spotlight this time around…i have an idea.
I always found cars that marry great performance and great practicality absolutely awesome idea. Trust me, these lovely machines would be perfect choice for car enthusiasts that can only park one car.
-Oh, so like Vizzuri Special…yaaaay
-Yes…just like your Vizzuri Special…
Intern was getting outside to go home after long work day, which wasnt made easier by…stuff said during one meeting that was today.
He went to his car and unlocked it, then pulled a huge rifle and relatively thick board with marked target.
Board being attached to part of roofrack, he went a solid distance from car, checked if parking area is clear of people, then put 5 shots in direction of target.
Some glass breaking could be heard.
-Aw man, seems i need stronger target.
Someone that took sweet time on approaching him was obviously very surprized by this ordeal
-Yeah…or maybe smaller rifle?
-Who is it…QUINT…what are you doing here?
-Havent recalled i allowed you to refer to me by my first name, but ya know, i heard some gunshots on my parking so i was naturally worried.
Havent thought you would make target practice out here.
-I was just testing this rifle.
-I dont need to fire it to determine it can cause lot of damage…as evidenced by your target completely punched through, broken window and holes on opposite side of car.
Tbf this is…very weird car. Im partially refering to its design and partially to its equipment.
-Understood. You see, while i was on my way from escaping ppl that killed my parents, i found certain small group of people.
Very soon after i joined them, we were involved in bar fight. For some reason thought it would be smart idea to stay at house of a guy that started it all bcos he didnt liked the beer. Iirc guy was called Raynold.
We got close to that family but needed to continue the journey.
I decided to buy their family car for 1000 bcos i knew its features would serve us well.
Said car is what you are seeing here
So we continued, then we met another family that would arise to help us, belonging to certain Pedro.
Pedro, his wife and their army of children (im wondering how they got so many) had allowed us to stay at their place.
Then…i met my GF and we are planning on full-blown family.
-Dont you seem tad bit too young for that big step?
-Oh well, cant judge you after the meeting…but keep this in mind: my parents were owners of firearms producer.
In fact, this (gestures at rifle) is one prototype designed by my father…
I do want to keep that company afloat and seeing that im its sole inheritor, its my duty to do everything in my power to make it happen.
Granted, im not yet fully prepared for this massive undertake, but not willing to take even minute longer when everything is put back in place.
Besides, we already adopted absolutely wonderful girl although, i should admit, in very much not wonderful circumstances.
Quint was taken aback by brutal situation this guy was in, atleast by his own wording.
He was speechless for fair bit of time
When it was all settled in his mind, guy was already gone.
Back in shop, he decided to search for his file in recent employees of company and he found it.
Jovan (Yo-vahn) was his name and tbh not much else was found, file was nearly empty.
Certainly interesting and car itself had sparked the interest, def not anything Quint can recall ever seeing.
He talked with Omega about it, in privacy of their own bed at home.
Omega seemed kinda interested
-Well, then it seems we cant go much further. Im sure there is nothing particularly special about the whole thing. Im still up for experimenting around like he suggested on meeting.
-Oh cmon, dont remind me of it.
-What, it was funny…
-Yeah, but that meeting wasnt supposed to be funny.
Sure sweetheart, we could try stuff in and out, but im still kinda divided upon that car.
There surely is something to it
-I suggest doing something lighter on the head.
-Like?
-Take a guess. You have one shot.
.
.
.
Well gentleman, ladies and humans that prefer none of those pronouns, we shall leave that specific patched up Jawoli house…until next part.
Lineup
Few things that are common to all cars:
-1955 cars, except for racing car which is from 1959
-Use unleaded fuel, except for racing car that uses 106 RON E70 ethanol.
Racing car is also only one not to be tuned for fuel of lower octane than rated: rest are using 91 RON but are tuned for 87 RON.
-All cars utilise all-steel construction, with galvanised chassis.
-Engine is always mounted at front and longitudinally, resting on top of double wishbone front suspension. Both block and heads are made out of iron.
-Gearbox is always 4 speed manual
Kolondra 3000
Basic consumer car of lineup; costing 26900.
For that money you get 3 liter inline6 making 142 hp delivering said power to the back through gearbox.
It has both roomy interior and big trunk, if that isnt ebnough there is practical roofrack on top of car
Car can handle 570 kg of people and cargo and offers not exactly stellar acceleration of 10.7 seconds to 100.
It goes 167 kmph at full speed.
Mass of vehicle itself is 1249 kg.
Both this and road-legal KimiQuattro utilise semi trailing arm on rear suspension.
Kolondra 3000 Government Edition
Government of Letara had sent proposal for making ranger vehicle and this car of misleading name would represent our efforts to (hopefully) meet them.
Name is misleading bcos even tho this also has inline6 engine, it develops 150hp from 4656cc. This decision was made in order to get more torque out of it.
Unlike any other car presented here, this one has solid axle with coil springs in order to make it more capable off beaten path; also helps it handle huge 2000 kg payload.
Also features 4X4 and manual locking differential.
Performance back on road can be described as acceptable, seeing that 1.4 tonnes of car are propelled to 100 in 10.6 seconds and due to gearing it can go to 140 kmph; this should be enough for it to not be obstacle on paved road either.
Price is estimated at 22100.
This also has additional equipment: two spare tires, winches front and rear (young guy that we hired to scout little bit on that regard misremembered and thought some competitor had such arrangement)
There are additional lights front and rear (this time no misremembering happened), rock sliders, megaphone to announce…whatever is necessary at that moment and you might notice two snorkels.
Designer liked symmetry and one to object was chased down using one of those, so they stayed.
There is toolbox as well. They are always useful.
Daniloski KimiQuattro Racing Edition
Doesnt look very racing to me…true, but this is our racing entry.
Belongs to category 2, courtesy of its 6208cc V8 engine.
Said engine develops tad bit more than 380hp
248 kmph and 5.82s to 100 are all you need to hear to realise its pretty capable for a wagon, despite having 1533kg to haul around.
For maximum performance on track, car utilises double wishbone suspension on both ends of car
We do imagine this wouldnt be bad platform for some interesting stuff, like some fast ambulance or…some vehicle that might dictate monotonous pace for all racers if something happened on track that makes race cars going full speed dangerous.
Daniloski KimiQuattro Road Edition
You wish you can drive something like that race car?
In many other cases, its reduced to wishes and dreams…but not here.
Granted, it has inferior semi trailing axle in back, inferior tires and runs on normal fuel, but it does deliver nicer interior than racing car and can be actually bought.
228 kmph and 7.26 s are figures to watch out in here, result of 346.6 hp variant of engine we mentioned for racing car.
1589 kg makes it touch heavier than racing car as well
Payload here is still very usable 548 kg.
Hopefully, blend of outright speed, power and practicality would make pricetag of 41400 easier to swallow.
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An overview of Ospiana and SUMA
SUMA is a publicly-operated manufacturer located in the city of Tuscana in Ospiana, a highly mountainous country with a similar but slightly more alpine climate to Letara, on a nebulous “other continent” known as Eucura. Ospians have a reputation among developed regions as an entire race of used car salesmen, but this besides, as of 1960. they’re currently in a very similar state to Letara now, being 10 years on the upturn from a devastating 20+ year age of war and occupation. Crippling national debt has given rise to a tendency to cling to cheaper, simpler, archaic technologies at all costs, and a preference for “off-the-shelf” problem-solving.
Much like the current border tensions and disaster recovery ongoing in Letara, Ospiana is continuously cleaning up old areas of rubble and war material, and holds similar weight on the international stage; that being mostly of the weight of a nearby larger ally. Internal forces have leveraged the current situation to lobby Congress to open a trade window into the country, namely by exporting recycled products as a two-pronged benefit, both generating debt-relieving income and ridding the country of poor quality materials.
Enter SUMA, the administration’s pet project and official recycling program, using steel made from wartime refuse to manufacture cars. The proposal to export to Letara and abroad was accepted under the condition that the Valori remain a domestic people’s car and something new be developed for their world premiere, unveiled in 1960 as the M311, marketed primarily under the Selecta name, with some others available in various markets as “packages” rather than distinct trims, each known by its own name.
There’s also a lore wiki page for anyone who’s interested.
A Daring Proposal: Congress Considers Exports
By the time Letara began accepting foreign imports, Ospiana had only just begun their recovery, spearheaded by the success of the SUMA program and various sibling initiatives launched in an aggressive reconstruction strategy. The only car being made was the Valori, and it quickly became a symbol of the country’s new growth, being dirt cheap both to build and buy, and they were ubiquitous in the post-war years everywhere from crumbling or re-paved city streets to mildly-shelled rural pathways, towing rubble, workers, and the dry, bland beginnings of the new generation of post-war crops.
Ospian Congress was very happy with the progress of the initiative despite opposition from a sizeable portion of the population, but many representatives sought to use it to their own ends. Although SUMA was funded by and subject to the whims of the government - forced to drop what they were doing every time they needed new trucks or tools for something - they were otherwise free to operate as an independent manufacturer would, and numerous Congressmen sought control over this entity by installing their own directors. The current head of SUMA, Amador Amador, knew how he would cement his position.
It took years of hearings and deliberation. Numerous sessions were consumed entirely with one idea: allow SUMA to sell cars abroad, not just domestically. Being the poster child of Ospian recuperation, and their Valori a symbol of the people, the idea was highly controversial, and it wasn’t until nearly the end of the decade that the motion was finally passed with fistfuls of caveats stapled to its sides. SUMA would be allowed to export any model they devise other than the Valori, it must be available domestically, and the new car must be ready to go by the end of 1960.
Amador had seen this coming, and engineers at SUMA had been quietly working under his direction the entire time, carefully disassembling cars from across Eucura to learn their construction, techniques, and improvements, and combine them into something that would prove Ospiana was on the up-and-up.
Unveiled at the last second, the Selecta was born.
We’re proud to announce the arrival of our all-new M311 platform and flagship package, the Selecta.
Towards the end of the 50s, microcars were becoming less practical and dropping in popularity, and the Valori series was a desparation measure built from long outdated parts. The shifting needs of the market led to extensive design work being undertaken on a newer model in a more stable segment. The M311, first launched in late 1960, came off the line as a small family sedan, vastly more modern and versatile than its predecessor. Though still simple, it included all of the same new padding, entertainment, and quality of life features as the later Valori models. It also utilized a novel hybrid construction where the passenger cabin was a monocoque design, while small subframes were mounted to the front and rear and fitted with traditional body panels, resulting in an excellent compromise between cost and efficacy.
The Selecta featured a wider range of options; most prominent of course was a brand-new straight four engine with a modern overhead camshaft that was considerably easier to manufacture. It was also available with a new 8V battery that improved the dependability of the electrical systems, allowing more options to be running simultaneously, and for the first time, the fuel gauge and tachometer could both be selected. It sported a fuel system cut-off and wiper fluid hand-pump in the cabin, and for its price, the new motorized wipers was a nice feature to have.
Unfortunately, it still wasn’t the perfect car. It was still cheap, largely consisting of recycled steel and lacking new steering and control technologies which made it harder to handle than its competitors. It was still relatively rudimentary, far from winning any awards on comfort during long trips. General accessibility was substandard, with poor placement of many switches to save on wiring harnesses, continued use of the 6V system, and only two central fresh air vents. It even retained the gravity-fed fuel tank in the engine bay, and although it was increased to an impressive ~10 gallons, it was archaic technology. The four-cylinder had heat issues under high load, not least because of the design trying to emphasize fuel economy and low cost, and there were few options for remedying the issue. Regardless, it was SUMA’s most successful venture yet, and it would go on to remain the most popular car in Ospiana for years. Taxis, patrol cars, fleet vehicles, and most anything on the road were all derived from the Selecta.
(Curiously, all shipments of the Selecta arrive with a separate shipment of individual body panels and exterior pieces, and all of the manuals directly reference off-the-shelf parts at hardware stores for various replacements. SUMA has declined to comment or elaborate on this strange practice.)
The Sheriff version of the M311 is not actually available in Ospiana, and is only found in certain export markets. Though not an exact copy, it uses many of the same upgrades to the platform used by SUMA to build a patrol car for Authoritie forces operating in rural Verdatenland, including 25 inch all-terrain tires, heavy duty rear brakes, a protective plate mounted to the front subframe under the engine bay, and a suspension lift to give clearance in softer or rockier ground. One of the key new features is the engine, a version of the ASE stroked out to 1.4L and fitted with a new 2-barrel carburetor and revised intake manifold, tuned and mated to a new 4-speed transmission. It’s surprisingly capable despite still being RWD, partly thanks to the original Selecta already coming equipped with a solid axle and locking differential. Towing capacity has more than doubled, and a small trailer is also available.
Unfortunately, it was otherwise a standard Selecta sitting on top of a fancier platform, and it lacked other common offroad amenities such as extended bumper coverage or exterior storage space. The lights and electrical wiring proved fairly fragile, and although a mount was present, it didn’t actually come with a ball hitch; they had to be ordered separately from another company.
A cabriolet modification of the Selecta was aimed at the audience of younger adults and couples getting their first car and looking for something more stylish than a city compact but not as huge and family-oriented as a land barge. The name Sintapa was deliberately tongue-in-cheek.
Since the passenger cabin itself was technically on monocoque design, this made the Selecta better suited to going topless than contemporary ladder frames, but still required enough reinforcement and subsequent extra weight to strain the already struggling drivetrain. This was never solved domestically, and the option was in fact discontinued only a year after release; in exports, however, it was fitted with the same upgraded drivetrain and brakes as its cousin the Sheriff. It was also fittingly quite simple, with the top being essentially a blanket that detached and folded up into a compartment behind the rear seats (which also didn’t lock, leading to some hassle). The top itself was also cheap, being the same material as the seats with a spray-on anti-weather coating that wore off and punctured easily. Unique to this version was a set of progressive springs that gave the heavier body a softer ride more in line with the original.
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