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There is no question that when it comes to automotive clones from China, history repeats itself. Following in the footsteps of Mercedes-Benz’s China partner BAIC, which came out with a five-door hatchback closely resembling the Stuttgart firm’s B-Class, Brilliance Automotive, BMW’s associate in China, is working on a compact SUV model that looks very much alike X1 crossover.

According to Chinese news site Auto Sohu that broke these scoop photos, the new Brilliance model with the Audi name and BMW looks will be officially revealed at the upcoming Shanghai Auto Show in mid-April. It is reported that the Brilliance A3 SUV will be offered with a 1.6-liter gasoline engine sourced from Mitsubishi’s local division.

Other notable doppelgangers from China include: BYD S6DM / Lexus RX, Landwind X8 / Mitsubishi Outlander, Great Wall Florid / Scion xA, Lifan 320 / MINI Cooper, Yema SQJ6451 / Subaru Forester and the Geely GE / Rolls Royce Phantom.

Source: Auto Sohu

The Lancia Stratos HF is the other Italian supercar of the 1970s. It may not be as well loved as some of the other greats – Lamborghini’s Countach, Ferrari’s Daytona or Maserati’s Khamsin – but it still holds a special place in many enthusiasts’ hearts. So it should come as no surprise that Stratos replicas are somewhat prevalent, especially in Europe.
The ebay seller assures us the work was carried out by professionals (isn’t it always?) and -as usual- the vehicle is going for a lot less than its original asking price. The car is said to be built by a Mr. Bates who provided the chassis to UK “repli-car” kit manufacturer Hawk Cars. Perhaps coincidently, Hawk Cars also makes a Lancia Stratos replica kit.
The previous owner and seller retrofitted this particular example with a Ferrari V8 sourced from a – get this – Lancia Thema 8.32. Remember the Thema 8.32? I certainly do. Frankly I’m glad they kept the engine and through away that hideous, boxy body. It’s also got the seats and steering wheel from a genuine Stratos to sweeten up the deal.
Unlike some of the cars we’ve featured on the site, this one is actually roadworthy and registered. It still has the usual sold-on-eBay niggles you’d expect like some worn synchromesh on second and an interior that’s in dire need of a little TLC. Still, for the low price of £25,000 (US$40,535) you get the car, a spare 8.32 V8 and transmission and a few little knickknacks including a 1:18 scale model and an original sales brochure. Choice!
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