What looks like a distorted render of the iconic supercar is a modified kei car with a Suzuki engine
January 15, 2024 at 09:31
The Pontiac Fiero might be the most popular choice among builders of Ferrari replicas, but Liberty Walk broke the mold with its latest project for the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon. The LB Works LB40 AZ-1 is based on Autozam’s kei car from the ’90s, featuring extensive visual modifications that make it look like a cartoon version of the iconic Ferrari F40.
To be precise, the model was intended to look like a shrunk version of Liberty Walk’s Ferrari F40 that debuted at the Tokyo Auto Salon last year – hence the white livery, the sponsor decals, and the extra aero. The problem is that while the Autozam AZ-1 donor vehicle is a sporty-looking kei car thanks to the mid-engined layout and the gullwing doors, its proportions are no match for a Ferrari flagship.
More: Is Liberty Walk’s Countach Better Or Worse Than The Lamborghini OG?
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Liberty Walk
Liberty Walk redesigning the majority of the body panels, with only the doors, greenhouse, roof, and upper rear deck being carried over from the original. The front design is probably the most successful, with the clamshell hood and headlights inspired by the F40 LM.
The tuner also added boxy rear fender extensions, leading to a vertically-cut tail with the iconic wing of the F40. Still, the result looks comical with the quad round taillights being too close to each other and the triple exhaust outlets looking tiny. As a finishing touch, Liberty Walk opted for a new set of forged alloy wheels measuring 16 inches at the front and 17 inches at the rear, shod in Toyo tires.
The Autozam AZ-1 debuted in 1992, with Mazda being responsible for its exotic styling and its production. The mid-mounted turbocharged 657cc powertrain is sourced from Suzuki and is good for 63 hp (47 kW / 64 PS) of power. The model was later rebadged as the Suzuki Cara, so we guess that this version will also be compatible with the LB Works kit.
The cost of the F40-inspired FRP bodykit is $22,660, although the price doesn’t include the lighting units. Finally, the forged wheels add another $14,300 into the mix, so you’re looking at a pretty expensive kei car.