The historical importance of the Pegasus Z-102 goes well beyond the 86 units produced. The sports car built between 1951 and 1957 played a fundamental symbolic role in marking the rebirth of the Spanish automotive industry after the Civil War.
Designed by former Alfa Romeo designer Wilfredo Ricart (he was responsible for the 6C and 8C), the Z-102 was meant to represent the maximum expression of Iberian technology of the time.
One in a kind
Built on a tubular steel chassis with an aluminum V8 engine, the Z-102 was intended for the high-end European market. It was therefore an elite sports car even in its positioning, although there were a series of even more exclusive special examples.
Autoblog.com
Pegaso Z-102 Thrill (1953)
Among these, the one that certainly stands out is the Thrill (“Thrill”) from 1953, also developed by the Italian coachbuilder Touring led by Carlo Felice Bianchi Anderloni. The Milanese craftsmen partially transformed the lines of the Pegaso by studying new interiors and new external details.
In fact, the body was distinguished by the two supports that started from the rear pillar and integrated the attachment points of the rear “fins”. In general, the design was more daring, with the red stripes on the sides contrasting with the black of the rest of the car.
History
Equipped with a 2.8 V8 and 175 CV capable of reaching a top speed of 225 km/h, after having failed to participate in the New York Motor Show, the Pegaso was exhibited for the first time at the Turin Motor Show in 1953, immediately obtaining positive feedback from the press and enthusiasts.
Autoblog.com
Pegaso Z-102 Thrill (1953)
Produced in a single example, the Thrill is said to have been commissioned by dictator Francisco Franco as a gift to Evita Perón. However, according to historians, the car remained in Spain, before being transferred to a private collection and completely restored.
Source: it.motor1.com
