THE ITALIAN CAR-MAKER NOBODY TALKS ABOUT!

Ares Modena, formerly known as Ares Design, is truly a one-of-a-kind automotive company based in Modena, Italy. What do they make? The answer entirely depends on you! Are you seeking a unique reimagining of an automotive legend? They can make it. Are you looking for a classic vehicle that has modern mechanics, safety systems and the kind of connectivity that we’re all used to in the modern world? They’ll build you one. Maybe you already have a car you love, but are looking for exterior and interior modifications, performance upgrades, or one-off features; they’ve got you covered no matter how extensive your request.

According to automotive icon and company co-founder Dany Bahar, “There are no limits to Ares Modena’s authentic, tailor-made upgrades. Ares can customize vehicles in every way possible thanks to its skill sets in every facet of automotive design. Whether it is creating unique body modifications to rework a four-door saloon into a two-door coupe or applying performance enhancements to deliver a more visceral, yet refined, sensory driving experience. From exterior modifications, including carbon fiber and aluminum body work, to engine augmentation and luxurious interiors – Ares Modena offers unparalleled expertise in every area.” 

If Dany’s name sounds familiar to you, you likely know him as the controversial ex-Lotus CEO. But his Lotus history aside, he also led RedBull in the successful diversification of the brand into top-level sports including Formula 1, NASCAR, and football – as well as leading the creation of Red Bull Media House. Additionally he formerly served as the Senior Vice President for Commercial Branding at Ferrari. He seems more than qualified to found his own automotive endeavor – which he did when he co-founded Ares in 2014. Ares’ other co-founder is Waleed Al Ghafari, owner of the Dubai Pearl – a world-famous $3.3 billion dollar real estate project in Dubai. Ares’ overarching framework revolves around three fundamental areas of operation that they’ve named Customization, Icons Reimagined, and Legends Reborn. They’ve recently added a fourth area of operation, but they haven’t named it. I’ll refer to it as Futures Realized.

Firstly, Customization. This facet is dedicated to the bespoke enhancement of both exterior and interior elements, encompassing sophisticated performance upgrades and meticulously crafted transformations tailored to individual customer vehicles. One such project is the world’s only Coupe version of the Bentley Mulsanne. Before starting the physical modifications, Ares laser scanned the four-door Mulsanne. Once they processed the data, they used it as a basis to construct a CAD 3D-rendering. Through extensive computer modeling, they gave the coupe a fresh look, with a sleeker roofline and smoothly integrated C-pillars blending into the rear structure. They also adjusted the angle of the rear window and added a new section to the rear deck between the base of the window and the original trunk lid.

The coupe underwent extensive alterations to accommodate its two-door configuration. Custom front seats were fitted to facilitate access to the rear seats, and the upholstery was tailored to match the rest of the interior. Customized adjustments were made to the rear door trim panels to suit the coupe body style without modifying the wheelbase. This allowed the Bentley Mulsanne Coupe to retain the sleek, elegant design of a grand tourer while preserving the sedan’s first-class comfort. Infused with cutting-edge technologies and crafted from premium materials, it caters to the most discerning enthusiasts. I think it looks absolutely fantastic as the sporty aesthetic of the new two-door body complements the luxurious sophistication presented in the original Bentley Mulsanne. The Ares team truly did an amazing job refining this creation without altering the standard Bentley has set for their designs.

The second area Ares works in is called Icons Reimagined. This facet focuses on revamping vintage cars into fully equipped, technologically advanced vehicles that retain the timeless appearance of their decades-old counterparts, while eliminating any prior reliability concerns. Classic cars need not remain relics of the past. Ares has the capability to seamlessly integrate classic automotive icons with contemporary mechanics, safety features, and connectivity standards of the modern era. This transformation ensures a modern driving experience without the reliability challenges or safety concerns associated with driving a classic car. In an age where individuals are electrifying classic cars, it’s refreshing to find a company that focuses on retaining the essence of the original vehicle, while also presenting it to the modern consumer. 

Recently Ares took a C7 Stingray chassis and built a 1964 Corvette on it. Resembling a classic vehicle straight from a Steve McQueen film set, this car boasts a powerful 525hp V8 engine, along with modern features like keyless entry, LED halo headlights discreetly integrated into original housings, air conditioning, a high-fidelity stereo system, bluetooth connectivity, and USB ports. Additionally, this vehicle passes all modern safety standards for US roadways. The exterior enhancements include custom-made rims reminiscent of the original Turbine wheels, but resized for modern performance. Initially conceived as a ‘restomod’ project for a 1964 Corvette, it evolved into a completely ground-up custom build, demonstrating the exceptional skill and dedication of Ares’ technicians and artisans. 

With over 3,500 hours invested in its transformation, the final product stands as a unique testament to Ares Modena’s unparalleled capabilities, showcasing a stunning blend of vintage and contemporary innovations. I’m absolutely amazed with how authentic it looks! Unless you’re intimately familiar with 60’s vettes, you probably wouldn’t even notice this vehicle isn’t original. It’s obviously bigger than the ‘64, but unless you put them side by side, you’d be hard pressed to find someone who’d notice. No detail was overlooked, as even the window glass has been tinted blue to mimic the glass used on vehicles in the 1960’s.

The interior got a makeover too. A handmade Wilton burgundy carpet was installed, and Ares’ leather team crafted new door trim panels and a leather dashboard. The C7 seats were stripped down to the frames, powder coated, and reshaped to maintain the appearance of seats from 1964. Ares designed a custom vertical stereo system for the Corvette, equipped with Bluetooth and phone connectivity while maintaining its classic look. A media port was discreetly added in the glovebox, featuring USB ports, an aux port, and an extra 12v charging port. New trim sections were created for the center console to conceal the speakers of the upgraded audio system. The dials were revamped with a mix of old and new materials, illuminated with LED lighting. 

The third area of work Ares focuses on is called Legends Reborn. Whereas Icons Reimagined takes a classic and adds modern features, Legends Reborn takes a classic and offers a seamless fusion of age-old craftsmanship and contemporary engineering innovations to reinterpret the original design for a modern world. Ares seeks to revitalize classics with fresh perspectives on design, materials, and technological advancements. Their first project in this area was the legendary 1970s Pantera, which they redesigned into the Panther ProgettoUno.

Transitioning from a relic of the past to envisioning and crafting a legend of the future, the Panther ProgettoUno embodies a fusion of elegance, design ingenuity, and modern aerodynamic engineering. An example of the aero innovation is shown in the design of the air intake. Crafted entirely from carbon fiber, it serves a dual purpose. The upper section directs air to the engine’s intake system, while the lower part ensures efficient cooling for the engine bay, enhancing overall performance. Meanwhile, the hood intakes also serve a dual purpose, dissipating heat from the engine bay and generating aerodynamic downforce. Inspired by the original Pantera, the spoiler on the rear window channels airflow towards the aerodynamic flanges on the tail.

Crafted from carbon fiber, this iconic Italian supercar is powered by a naturally aspirated V10 engine, pumping out 650hp and 600ft.lb. of torque. This beast is paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The suspension choice is to be desired as it features double wishbone fully independent suspension in the front and back. Despite sharing similar dimensions with the original Pantera, the luxurious revamp is just 3 inches longer, but notably wider.

Ares’ final area of operations is something I’m calling Futures Realized. They’ve decided to join the world of coach building; taking an existing vehicle, stripping it down, and building it into a unique creation for large-scale production.

Based on the Corvette C8, Ares has announced two new creations: the S1 Project Coupe, and the S1 Project Speedster. Sporting a sleek front, defined wheel arches, and a panoramic windshield, the S1 Project Coupe aims to revive the nostalgia of vintage race cars. Noteworthy features include a dynamic rear spoiler and a distinctive rear deck-mounted exhaust that reminds me of the McLaren 600LT. Not only does this setup significantly enhance the V8 engine’s performance, but it also gives the car a distinctive and captivating sound, elevating the driving experience to new heights of excitement and immersion. A potent powertrain, a nimble chassis, and an advanced gearbox are essential ingredients for an engaging and immersive driving adventure. Underneath its carbon fiber exterior, the S1 Project boasts a naturally aspirated V8 engine with direct injection, delivering robust performance. Power is seamlessly transferred to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Handling prowess is ensured by its double-wishbone suspensions, forged aluminum axles, and adaptive Magnetic Ride Control.

Catering to enthusiasts seeking open-top driving thrills with added comfort and refinement, the S1 Project Speedster boasts a streamlined windshield seamlessly integrated with its muscular carbon fiber bodywork. It epitomizes the core principles of Ares design, where form and function converge to offer distinctive style, exceptional dynamic performance, and an exhilarating driving experience.

All in all, I have an incredible amount of respect for this company. Their craftsmanship is unparalleled, and their work truly speaks for itself. In a world of mass-produced conformity, it’s remarkable to find a company that’s 100% bespoke no matter how big your vision is for your dream vehicle. Make sure to visit their website and browse their other creations.

I release a couple articles every week. To keep tabs on my upcoming articles or to catch the ones you’ve missed, visit my profile! To see my latest photography work, go to StingerAuto.com or look up @Stinger_Auto on Instagram and Stinger Photography on Facebook!