Automobili Mignatta Unveils the Rina: A Retro V8 Barchetta Roaring into the Future
A new contender has entered the exclusive world of bespoke sports cars: Automobili Mignatta, an Italian startup hailing from Valfenera in Piedmont. Their debut model, the Rina, is a stunning barchetta that blends classic 1960s aesthetics with modern materials and a powerful V8 engine. Limited to just 30 units per year, this hand-built roadster is poised to capture the hearts of car enthusiasts seeking a pure and exhilarating driving experience.
The Rina's design is a clear homage to the iconic sports cars of the past. Its low-slung silhouette, almond-shaped headlights, and lack of a windshield evoke the spirit of the Shelby Cobra and Maserati 450S. The bodywork is crafted from a single piece of carbon fiber, matched by a carbon monocoque chassis, ensuring both lightness and rigidity.
According to Automobili Mignatta founder Josè Mignatta, "Rina is proudly linked to Piedmont... It is a sports car that celebrates Italian style and conveys the feeling of driving 'for real'." The company's website even proclaims, "She is Rina," naming the car after Caterina, the founder's grandmother.
While the exterior is a nod to the past, the Rina boasts modern technology underneath. A 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, reportedly sourced from the Ford Mustang and upgraded by Italtecnica Engineering, sits beneath the long hood. The exact specifications are yet to be revealed, but with a power-to-weight ratio of 2 kg per PS, it's estimated to deliver around 493 horsepower. This power is channeled to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox and a limited-slip differential.
The cockpit is equally focused on the driving experience. There are no distracting screens; instead, classic aluminum switchgear and analogue gauges dominate the interior. Carbon fiber is also prominently featured, reinforcing the lightweight construction. The seating arrangement is pared back, with leather pads mounted directly onto the monocoque.
"Rina is a journey into design and emotion, a tribute to the Italian sports cars of yesteryear," says Davide Dessì, chief designer of Rina.
Priced from €290,000 (approximately $322,000) before taxes, the Automobili Mignatta Rina is a statement of exclusivity and craftsmanship. Production will be limited to 30 units per year, with first deliveries expected in 2026. While it may not be road-legal in all markets, the Rina represents a compelling vision of a modern-day classic, blending Italian style with Detroit muscle.
The Rina's manual transmission, lack of screens, and focus on driver involvement represent a counter-trend in the automotive industry. Will this approach resonate with enthusiasts seeking a more connected and engaging driving experience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!