Puma GT 1500 Tubarao production number 310 from 1st hand with stainless steel exhaust extensively restored (1969)

Vehicle description

Model history:

The lawyer and amateur racer Genaro Rino Malzoni from Matão (São Paulo) decided to build his own competition car at Automóveis Lumimari in 1961 together with his friend Anisio Campos. The basis was provided by DKW Vemaguet with its two-stroke engine and the front-wheel drive typical of DKW. Between 1962 and 1964, three prototypes were built on the grounds of his Chimbo farm near the town of Matao, culminating in the final form for the Malzoni GT. In 1967, under the new company Puma Veículos e Motores Ltda. from São Paulo, the successor model appeared, the "DKW Puma GT", which consisted of a central tubular frame and a GRP body. Originally, only a small homologation series was planned, which then developed into a small series production already in the second year of production due to strong demand. In 1967, the first peak was 121 sports cars produced. Another source mentions 135 DKW-based vehicles for 1967. In 1968, DKW production in Brazil was discontinued. After the demise, the Pumas switched to technology from Volkswagen do Brasil and in their final stages were made from General Motors components. A major boost to production figures came from the export activities that began in 1970. Worldwide, however, Pumas remained exotic. There were around 20 different models, all of which were based on a central tubular frame with a GRP body. In 1979, the most successful production year, 3595 Pumas (GM-based) were built. In total, about 22,000 vehicles were built.

General information about the vehicle:

Here you have the opportunity to bid for a rarity from 1969. The GT is a rare import from Brazil and the only Puma GT 1500 Tubarao 1969 registered in Germany. This car is number 310 of 423 cars built in 1968/69 (birth certificate available). So far the "gem" had only one owner. The so-called matching numbers and a VIN are not given. According to available information, the vehicle in the current possession is accident-free, registered with a historic license plate and ready to drive. It was recently made a new MOT and is valid until 05/2025. The car does not have a checkbook. Furthermore, it should be noted that the Puma was extensively restored by the seller after importation to Germany. A documentation with lots of photos is available. All original parts are available and will of course be included. In Europe only one other Puma Tubarao, of the first generation, is known. This one is restored in France according to available information.

Exterior Color/Paint/Body:

The exterior of this special vehicle shows a powerful red. The sports car received a repaint at the rear. Due to the Brazilian road conditions there are scratches on the front skirt at the bottom. During the restoration many parts were renewed, among others: a stainless steel Sidewinder exhaust, additional oil cooler, a new tank... All original parts of the vehicle are present.

exact condition can be seen in the other photos.

Exterior Rims/Brakes/Suspension:

The Puma GT 1500 is on rare wedding cake rims. The mounted tires are in mint condition. The owner estimates the condition of the brakes to be at least90%. In addition, the restoration gave the car a completely new chassis with a custom lowered floor assembly. The floor group was then powder coated black satin after the restoration. Due to the fiberglass body, rust should not be an issue with this car. Feel free to take a look at this well-maintained car for yourself. You can find detailed photos and videos in the gallery.

Interior:

The interior of this gem features seats made of black imitation leather. The dashboard is also covered with imitation leather and has been visually embellished with wood. Special is the curved gearshift and the 1 on the steering wheel center. The car has electric windows. The speakers are no longer installed in the car. For a detailed overview of the interior please refer to the other photos.

Mileage:

The Puma currently has a mileage of only 800 km since restoration. The mileage is not provable. A checkbook is not available to the seller. According to the owner, all instruments work as they should.

Engine:

The sports car also received a long manual transmission and an 1835 cc engine with twin Weber carburetors as part of the restoration. The engine is rated at over 100 horsepower. For the compact car weighing only 700 kg, the horsepower should provide enough power on the road. The last service was performed in 04/2023.

Underbody:

The underbody assembly was completely rebuilt as part of the restoration, blasted and then powder coated black satin after the restoration. Therefore, the car has no rust and is in very good condition visually. All wiring and brakes were also redone during the chassis restoration. You can get an exact picture of the underbody by looking at the photos.

Who is this car for?

Rarity hunters will get their money's worth in this auction. With the Puma GT 1500 you have the chance to get the only Tubarao Bj. 1969 registered in Germany with birth certificate. Due to the compact size of the car, the seller advises people taller than 1.85 not to buy.

Vehicle videos

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