If there is a way to attract attention to your new TV show more than taking an angle grinder to a classic Ferrari then we are yet to see it. That is exactly what London Motor Museum founder Elo has done as part of History Channel's new show Ultimate Wheels. The show follows Elo (a former fashion model) on his quest to transform great cars into 'Ultimate Wheels'.
The Ferrari in question is a 1989 412 2+2 coupé that Elo decided to convert into the ultimate builder's workhorse for the tradesmen who work on some of London's most decadent houses. With the help of mechanic Will Trickett, Elo took an angle grinder to the Pininfarina designed body, lopping 300mm off the roof to create a load bed at the back, a bed that was subsequently lined with teak wood.
Having butchered the roof Elo then set about doing the same to the bonnet where a shotgun scoop has been added for the 4.9-litre, 340hp V12 engine. A bespoke exhaust system was also commissioned, which has a valve system whereby the driver can decide at the flick of a switch whether to have the exhaust growl fiercely or produce a more refined sound for London's leafier avenues.
The pick-up is finished with a bespoke sound system (said to be ideal for playing Italian opera) and a Ferrari Rosso red paint job. Bizarrely there is no mention of bespoke breakfast roll holders or receptacles for The Sun newspaper...
Elo commented: "This is one of my favourite cars of the TV series - something truly unique and even experienced Ferrari technicians like what we've done. The rest of the series sees us work on a VW camper, a Ford Mustang, a Group B rally-inspired Audi, a unique Bristol and many more amazing conversions."
Anything else?
Elo and his London Motor Museum collection are at the heart of the TV series 'Ultimate Wheels', now showing Thursdays at 9pm on the History Channel.