Driving digital renditions of authentic luxury cars in video games is enjoyable, but what if the roles were reversed? Some incredible in-game exclusive vehicles would be thrilling to maneuver in the tangible world. Some resourceful mechanics have taken matters into their own hands by constructing Halo Warthogs with genuine metal, but the creativity doesn’t end there. Case in point: This Pegassi Infernus drift car, a riff on one of Grand Theft Auto’s most beloved exotic models.
It’s the brainchild of Robert Bell, the proprietor of RB’s Adrenaline Factory in Kansas City. He embarked on the project with the intention of fabricating a tube framework from scratch to showcase the workshop’s fabrication prowess. With that blueprint in hand, the necessity for a shell to crown it became evident.
“While scanning through Craigslist one day, I stumbled upon a [Lamborghini] Murcielago body in our vicinity,” Bell elaborates. “During the initial construction phase, I realized that given the current state of the automotive community, kit cars are viewed unfavorably as they are usually poorly executed on subpar chassis.
“By implementing minor alterations and transforming it into the Infernus from the video game, the entire perception of the car shifted.”
The alignment with Rockstar’s designers basing their car on the Murcielago just fell into place. Bell commenced from there and then significantly widened it to capture the ultra-low visual appeal. As per his account, the fiberglass craftsmanship has posed the most significant challenge in the project thus far, alongside achieving symmetry in all aspects.
The construction began in April 2022, so nearly two years have been invested to reach this stage. It is now a operational, driven vehicle
automobile that’s certified for use on public roads, a feat that requires significant effort. When Bell drives it on the streets, the primary purpose is for executing drift maneuvers. The configuration of the vehicle’s components further emphasizes this fact.
Therefore, the powerplant is a horizontally positioned Nissan VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 similar to the engine found in an older Maxima model. It shares similarities with a 350Z motor. Positioned behind the driver, it channels power to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission designed initially for front-wheel-drive setups. This unconventional setup adds to its appeal. The inclusion of the Precision 6466 turbocharger enhances its performance significantly, in my opinion.
Robert Bell
As a master fabricator, Bell’s metalwork on this car is incredible. While I lack the knowledge to construct a vehicle from the ground up, the tube work and suspension display excellent craftsmanship. The standout feature for me is the innovative exhaust system, where five pipes in a T-shape exit high out the rear. Whether you admire or dislike the sound of the VQ engine, the sight of it spitting flames through those pipes is undeniably impressive.
The vehicle’s body remains raw at the moment, but Bell shared renders of a completed purple version to visualize the final outcome. Once finished, it will undoubtedly make a statement and resemble the iconic Infernus, featured in nearly every installment of Grand Theft Auto since GTA III.
While working on the project, Bell intends to attend as many exhibitions as possible. If you spot him, be sure to say hello! He’ll be easily recognizable with his video game-inspired car that glides effortlessly.
Have a suggestion or query for the writer? Reach out to them directly at: caleb@thedrive.com
