Totem Automobili, an Italian company known for its restomod cars, has unveiled a new gas-powered version of its Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA-inspired GT Electric. Named the GT Super, this car will be officially presented at the 2023 Salon Privé event in the U.K. starting on August 30th.
The restomod process for Totem’s cars goes far beyond simply modifying the original vehicles. Starting with an original Alfa Romeo Giulia GT Junior 1300 or 1600 from the 1970s, only around 10% of the donor car is retained.
The transformation begins by disassembling and stripping down the donor car, leaving only the bulkhead intact. Totem then combines the bulkhead with a carbon-fiber monocoque for the passenger cell. Additionally, the body is constructed entirely from carbon fiber, which not only reduces weight but also enhances strength and rigidity. Totem ensures that the body meets the latest safety standards in both the European Union and the United States.
The GT Super features steel subframes at the front and rear, with aluminum components used for the double wishbone suspension at both ends. The car is equipped with 18-inch aluminum wheels wrapped in Pirelli’s P Zero or Trofeo R tires. Brembo brakes with four-piston fixed calipers are fitted on both the front and rear wheels.
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While the exterior design of the GT Super retains some elements inspired by the Giulia GTA, Totem has made subtle changes to distinguish it from the original. For instance, the GT Super boasts four headlights instead of the original two, and the C-pillar design has been modified. Additionally, Totem redesigned the rear of the car to improve aerodynamics, incorporating a flat floor and rear air extractors to generate downforce.
Under the hood, the GT Super is powered by a twin-turbocharged 2.8-liter V-6 engine with dry sump lubrication. Totem extensively modifies the donor engine, resulting in a standard version that delivers 600 hp and an optional version that produces a thrilling 750 hp. Despite its impressive power, the GT Super has a claimed curb weight of just 2,601 pounds. The transmission is a 6-speed manual mounted at the rear axle, improving weight distribution.
In terms of performance, the GT Super boasts a 0-62 mph time of 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. These figures are comparable to the electric version of the car, which has a 0-62 mph time of 2.9 seconds. The electric version features an upgraded 81-kWh battery, providing an estimated range of over 250 miles.
Inside the GT Super, Totem blends modern and classic elements. Physical controls and analog gauges are retained, while some digital elements are incorporated. The car features modern carbon-fiber bucket seats based on the original design of the Giulia GT. Totem plans to customize the driver’s seat to each customer’s specifications, ensuring maximum comfort. The pedal placement will also be tailored to match the customer’s shoe size.
Riccardo Quaggio, the founder of Totem Automobili and a former Honda and Alfa Romeo designer, describes the GT Super as a new car that retains the design and aesthetics of the original. He emphasizes the company’s dedication to engineering solutions that surpass the mechanics and structures of the original GT, setting new standards in the industry.
While Totem has not released pricing details for the GT Super, the company initially listed the GT Electric with a starting price of 430,000 euros (approximately $470,000) when it was first unveiled in 2020. Both the GT Super and GT Electric can be certified for use worldwide and come with a two-year manufacturer warranty.
Overall, Totem Automobili’s GT Super brings together the timeless design of the Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA with modern engineering advancements. With its powerful performance, lightweight construction, and attention to detail, the GT Super is a true homage to the iconic Italian homologation special.
