Kimera Automobili caused quite a stir in 2021 when it took the covers off the stunning EVO37. This is a modern, restomod version of the Lancia Rally 037, the World Rally Championship car that won the championship in 1983. Since then, it has evolved into the EVO38 with all-wheel drive, as well as the special Martini 7 edition, with more power than the regular EVO37, as well as a Martini-style livery.
But it took things a further step thanks to the reveal of the Kimera K39. If you thought that the EVO38 was the height of what they could do, the K39 has taken the rulebook and ripped it apart. The K39 is, in some ways, a modern version of the Ferrari F40 in relation to the raw driving experience it offers. But of course, it too is based on the Lancia 037.
The highlights showcase just how good this new car is. It has a carbon fiber monocoque, a Koenigsegg V8 engine, a manual transmission, and well over 1,000hp. This is a full-on Lancia-inspired hypercar, and quite possibly the coolest car money can buy in 2026.
Thanks to YouTuber NM2255 Raw Car Sounds, the K39 was recently spotted at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2026 in Italy. The YouTuber filmed various cars at the event, including the K39, and was able to capture the raw sounds of the Koenigsegg V8-powered monster.
How Good Did the Kimera K39 Sound?
While we haven’t heard it fully in the flesh ourselves, the video gave us a good idea of just how cool this car sounds. Finished in red with blue stripes, the Kimera is seen roaring its way into the event with photographers swarming around it. Happily for us and those in attendance, the driver mashes the throttle to let us hear the V8 sing.
It produces a very distinct and raucous sound, perhaps not with quite as deep a V8 rumble as you would expect. On idle, it sounds menacing. When the gas pedal is pressed, it almost screams at those watching on. It is a remarkable sound, and the car looks superb when it is on the move. The twin-turbocharged configuration no doubt plays a part in the incredible sound.
From a distance, there is very little that would give away this not being a true 037, and instead being a modern recreation. Kimera captured the lines of the Lancia beautifully, even down to the round headlights, which now use modern LEDs, and the overall shape of the car. Could this be the best restomod ever produced?
This Is How Much Power the Kimera K39 Produces
Sitting under the hood of the K39 is a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, developed by Swedish supercar legends Koenigsegg specifically for the K39. This monster powertrain produces 1,000hp and 885lb-ft of torque. If that wasn’t exciting enough, the hypercar also comes with a seven-speed manual transmission.
While the EVO37 and EVO38 were more like a traditional restomod, the K39 is a little different. This is basically a brand-new car built from the ground up, with a bespoke carbon fiber monocvque. Kimera, of course, stuck to the Lancia 037 when it came to design inspiration. Looking at the rear, though, it is easy to see where Ferrari F40 influence might have come from, thanks to the fixed rear wing, the large fenders, and the flat fascia. Amazingly, Kimera has even more planned for this epic hypercar.
A Pikes Peak Assault Might Be in the Works
Alongside the road-legal K39, the Italian company has even dreamt up the idea of a Pikes Peak configuration for the modern Lancia incarnation. In fact, the first 10 buyers of the K39 will get access to the Pikes Peak configuration, should they wish to have one of these as well. And as you would expect, this version includes a few differences over the standard car.
The Pikes Peak model has heavily revised aero, including a new front splitter that is huge, and an equally massive rear wing and diffuser. The company even says these components are designed to be quick-swapped, so you can reconfigure the car for a regular racetrack, or for a mountain assault. Is there anything that Kimera can’t do?