Tuksedo Studio is creating handcrafted aluminum replicas of automotive icons that are so lifelike they compete with the originals. Published 18 hours ago By Brad Anderson Tuksedo Studio produces six models, including copies of the DB5, 300 SL, and 507. Each vehicle is crafted using digitized original designs and manually shaped body panels. Every part, from wheels to gauges, is handmade in-house, excluding the engines. Replicas have traditionally been viewed as mere stand-ins in the automotive realm, often disregarded before they even make their debut. However, occasionally, one emerges that completely alters this view. This is true for the impressive classic vehicles being created in a small workshop in Bali, Indonesia. These hand-finished creations from Tuksedo Studio may come with six-figure price tags, but for those who recognize the labor involved, every dollar spent is justified. Watch: Can You Tell This SLK-based Gullwing Replica From The Real Thing? Tuksedo Studio was established by a former architect whose enthusiasm for classic automobiles and craftsmanship naturally progressed into a more ambitious endeavor. How Are The Cars Built? Since its inception nearly ten years ago, the company now offers six models, each inspired by renowned European and Japanese cars, all constructed from scratch by a team of skilled young artisans. As evident in the video from Hagerty, which visited the workshop, calling these cars replicas doesn’t do them justice; they appear just as stunning as the originals. The current offerings include accurate reinterpretations of the Porsche 550 Spyder, Porsche 356, Toyota 2000GT, Aston Martin DB5, Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing, and BMW 507. In Indonesia, importing any of the originals is illegal, which is why Tuksedo Studio produces them independently. Each model uses the mechanics of existing vehicles that are readily available locally. For instance, the 2000GT is powered by a Toyota Crown engine, while the powertrain for the 300SL is sourced from a Mercedes W124 sedan. To guarantee each model is flawless, the company utilizes original drawings, digitizes them, and then its team meticulously fabricates every aluminum body part. There are no advanced machinery here; traditional English wheels are employed to mold the panels. All Parts Are Made In-House The level of detail is remarkable. Given the challenges of sourcing original parts either locally or through imports, Tuksedo Studio manufactures every single component of its vehicles in-house, except for the windshield and powertrain. This encompasses everything from major elements like rims to smaller, delicate components such as steering wheels, gauges, lights, headlights, reflectors, and door locks. Every aspect, both interior and exterior, is crafted entirely by hand. This involves thousands of individually created pieces, each shaped and finished with meticulous care. The production process is highly intricate, and despite having a sizable team, Tuksedo Studio can currently produce only about five vehicles each year. With such exceptional craftsmanship, it’s no wonder that prices start around $200,000 and can exceed $300,000, reflecting the significant time, skill, and precision that goes into each build.

      Denza's latest sports model has recently been seen traversing the Nürburgring, and it seems to be aiming at Europe's top contenders.

      Denza's Z EV may come equipped with three electric motors generating over 900 horsepower.

      A prototype was spotted testing at the Nürburgring, fitted with semi-slick Giti tires.

      The presence of a fixed rear wing and diffuser indicates a focus on aerodynamic efficiency.

      BYD is not merely satisfied with selling budget-friendly EVs and plug-in hybrids. Through its upscale Denza brand, the company intends to compete with European luxury manufacturers, with vice president Stella Li claiming its cars are “ten times better” than those from Porsche and BMW.

      Recently, BYD’s boss boasted that the Z9 GT is ‘ten times better’ than premium European rivals.

      Now, those claims are about to be thoroughly tested as Denza is developing a new sports car meant to rival the upcoming Porsche 718 Electric and even the 911.

      The forthcoming model, simply named the Z, has already been observed at the Nürburgring, where a prototype of the all-electric coupe is undergoing evaluations. The key question now is, what can we anticipate from it?

      Denza has been developing this sports model for quite a while and revealed it in concept form earlier this year. This prototype, although camouflaged, closely resembles the show car, which is a positive aspect.

      While it might not be the most aesthetically pleasing two-door sports car available, it certainly has a distinctive appearance and is expected to deliver significant performance.

      In terms of design, the front features two large air intakes, a small center grille, and LED headlights. There's also a notable front splitter for improved aerodynamics, along with some small aero flaps beneath the bumper. From the side, the Z appears elongated and has Porsche RS-like vents on the front wheel arches.

      These spy photos show the vehicle on a set of high-performance GitiSport GTR3 semi-slick tires, with impressive dimensions of 325/30 at the rear and 275/35 at the front. It’s clear that Denza aims for top-tier performance, hence the choice of semi-slick tires.

      The back of the car is particularly fascinating. It boasts a large fixed rear wing, a prominent diffuser integrated into the bumper, and LED taillights.

      What Are the Technical Details?

      Many critical technical specifications about the Z are still not disclosed. Denza has not indicated what type of powertrain the concept possesses, but local news suggests that the production version will utilize a triple-motor configuration.

      The current Z9 GT already employs this setup, yielding 952 horsepower. While some reports proposed that power for the Z might be limited to 536 horsepower, it would be surprising if Denza aimed for the estate to outperform its initial true sports car.

      Should the Z produce upwards of 900 horsepower, it could potentially reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3 seconds or less. However, as demonstrated by its testing at the Nürburgring, it won't focus solely on straight-line speed. This prototype is equipped with substantial brakes and will also incorporate Denza's advanced suspension system.

      This system will have a double-wishbone configuration at the front, featuring magnetorheological shocks that adjust the damping force in just 10 milliseconds. We are confident this setup will excel on a challenging track like the Nordschleife.

      A Technology-Driven Interior

      The interior of the Denza Z is expected to resemble that of the concept model. This likely means it will feature a digital instrument cluster, a central infotainment display, and a small screen for the passenger. Additionally, it should include plenty of luxurious Alcantara and leather to create a genuinely premium atmosphere.