Carlo Verdone’s Cars: A Passion for Lightweight Engineering and Italian Automotive Style
Simplicity and lightness – these are the hallmarks of Colin Chapman’s design philosophy, the man who transformed Lotus into a coveted marque. And it’s a philosophy that perfectly encapsulates the automotive tastes of Italian actor and director Carlo Verdone. Featured on the February 20th special edition of the Italian game show Sfida tra giganti, a segment of L’Eredità, Verdone revealed a garage befitting his stature, a collection representing a deep appreciation for mechanical sensations.
In a world increasingly dominated by heavy batteries and technologically complex interiors, Verdone champions subtraction, both on set and behind the wheel. His enduring passion for Lotus isn’t a fleeting trend, but a connection rooted in decades past, specifically with the grey European S model. Described by Verdone with characteristic irony as an absolute joy on curves but a physical ordeal to exit, the Europa S embodies a bygone era of driving – one free from the distractions of mobile phones and excessive electronic aids. This preference for a purist driving experience ultimately led him to the Lotus Evora, introduced in 2009 with a base price exceeding 117,000 euros.
From Fiat 127 to Lotus Evora: A Lifelong Automotive Journey
Verdone’s relationship with cars is relatable. Before acquiring his first Lotus, his automotive journey began with humble beginnings. It started with a white Fiat 127 – purchased with the hard-earned savings from his early cabaret days – and evolved to the white Evora, a more mature vehicle that he frequently showcases on social media. In between, he experimented with bolder choices, like the Fiat Dino featured in his film Un sacco bello (inspired by a car he saw during a trip to Poland in 1974, adorned with red lightning bolts). However, in his personal life, Verdone consistently prioritized technical substance.
In a 2008 interview with La Stampa, Verdone revealed he owned two other vehicles, each serving a specific purpose. For long journeys, he favored a BMW 3 Series station wagon, a 3.0-liter turbodiesel, appreciating its all-wheel drive for reliability, particularly in braking. The spacious interior allowed him to transport his dog and even oil for his countryside property, although an onboard television enhanced stops at autogrills. For navigating the streets of Rome, he relied on a Nissan Micra, easily maneuverable and parkable, though he had already reserved a Toyota iQ.
The Lotus Evora: A Modern Interpretation of Chapman’s Philosophy
The Lotus Evora represents a natural progression from the Europa S, embodying the same spirit of lightweight engineering and precise handling. While the Europa S demanded a significant physical commitment, the Evora offers a more comfortable driving experience without sacrificing the visceral connection between road and steering wheel. A photograph published by Lotus Roma captures Verdone’s joy upon first experiencing the car; beneath the white exterior lies a centrally-mounted V6 engine providing optimal weight distribution. It’s a victory for visceral passion over the complexity of modern battery-powered vehicles.
Colin Chapman, the founder of Lotus, fundamentally changed automotive design. Born on May 19, 1928, in Richmond, Surrey, England, Chapman’s innovative approach prioritized lightweight construction and exceptional handling over sheer horsepower, famously summarized as “Adding power makes you faster on the straights. Subtracting weight makes you faster everywhere.” Chapman founded Lotus Cars in 1952, initially operating as a side project with a group of enthusiasts. His understanding of aeronautical engineering principles proved crucial in developing the groundbreaking automotive technologies for which he is remembered.
Under Chapman’s direction, Team Lotus achieved significant success in motorsport, winning seven Formula One Constructors’ Championships and six Drivers’ Championships between 1962 and 1978, as well as the Indianapolis 500 in the United States. Lotus also produced tens of thousands of affordable, cutting-edge sports cars. The company remains one of the few British performance car manufacturers still in operation following the industrial decline of the 1970s. Sadly, Chapman died of a heart attack on December 16, 1982, at the age of 54.
The Enduring Appeal of Lotus
The appeal of Lotus, and by extension, Verdone’s automotive choices, lies in its commitment to a driving experience that prioritizes engagement and connection. The Europa S, for example, was known for its minimalist interior and demanding driving characteristics. It wasn’t a car for the faint of heart, requiring a skilled driver to fully appreciate its capabilities. The Evora, while more refined, retains that core Lotus DNA, offering a balance between performance and usability.
Verdone’s preference for Lotus reflects a broader appreciation for automotive history and a rejection of the increasingly homogenized landscape of modern cars. He values the tactile experience of driving, the feeling of being connected to the machine, and the simplicity of a well-engineered vehicle. This is a sentiment shared by many automotive enthusiasts who seek a more engaging and rewarding driving experience.
The Fiat 127, Verdone’s first car, holds a special place in Italian automotive history. Introduced in 1971, the 127 was a revolutionary small car known for its front-wheel drive layout, spacious interior, and nimble handling. It was a popular choice among young drivers and quickly became a symbol of Italian practicality and style. The fact that Verdone purchased his with his own earnings from his early career underscores his independent spirit and his dedication to his craft.
The BMW 3 Series station wagon, while a departure from Verdone’s sports car preferences, demonstrates his pragmatic side. The station wagon’s practicality and all-wheel drive capability made it an ideal vehicle for transporting his dog and equipment to his countryside property. It also highlights his appreciation for German engineering and reliability.
Carlo Verdone’s garage is a reflection of his personality – a blend of passion, practicality, and a deep appreciation for automotive history. His choice of cars speaks to a desire for authenticity and a rejection of superficiality, qualities that have made him one of Italy’s most beloved actors and directors.
As Lotus continues to evolve and embrace new technologies, it remains to be seen how the brand will balance its heritage with the demands of the modern automotive market. However, one thing is certain: the spirit of Colin Chapman – the pursuit of lightweight engineering and exceptional handling – will continue to inspire automotive enthusiasts for generations to come.
The next major development for Lotus will be the launch of its all-electric hypercar, the Evija, expected to commence deliveries in late 2024 or early 2025. This vehicle represents a significant departure from Lotus’s traditional gasoline-powered offerings, but it also demonstrates the brand’s commitment to innovation and performance.
What are your thoughts on Carlo Verdone’s automotive choices? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with fellow car enthusiasts!
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