Back in the 1970s, the Wankel-engined Mercedes-Benz C111 experimental prototype stunned the world. Now, Texas-based GWA-Tuning has created its own version of the masterpiece.

The new GWA Ciento Once (Spanish for ‘one hundred and eleven’) is not, however, powered by a Wankel engine but by a 408HP M120 Mercedes V12, mated to a six-speed gearbox. Nor is it the familiar orange colour of the original car, still owned by Mercedes and occasionally seen in action at such world-class events as the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The Ciento Once is painted in brilliant silver with black accents and matching interior.

There are other differences, too, between the C111 and Ciento Once – such as a slightly shorter wheelbase than the original (103in). With upgraded coil-over suspension, and the same braking set-up as the S55 Mercedes-Benz, the aim is to create a real driver’s car.

The tubular spaceframe chassis is clothed in an aluminium body, with glass on the rear deck through which the engine can be seen. There is also an electrically operated, adjustable rear wing, and a rear diffuser and front spoiler with a large air-intake, to guide the airflow into the radiators and out through the vents in the bonnet.

The interior of the Ciento Once resembles the original from the 1970s although, again, there are some updated features: cloth-covered carbonfibre seats, for example, sit alongside its brushed aluminium pedals and illuminated door sills.

For more details, see www.gwa-tuning.com.

Text: Charis Whitcombe
Photos: GWA Tuning