In a Brazil marked by economic challenges and transformations in the automotive sector, Farus emerged as a symbol of innovation and boldness. Created in the 1970s by a family passionate about cars, the brand brought to the market models outstanding, which, in addition to beauty and sophistication, were loaded with advanced technology for the time. This article explores the trajectory of Farus, a brand that enchanted enthusiasts and built a unique history in the national automotive scene.
The Origin: From Metallurgy to Passion for Cars
The history of Farus begins with the union of Alfio and Giuseppe Russo, father and son, owners of Italmecânica, a metalworking company specializing in the production of components for the food industry. However, the family's true passion was something else: the cars. The fascination with “macchinas” led the Russo family to transform the metalworking company into a center of automotive engineering, creating the embryo of what would become Farus. In 1977, the dream began to take shape with the first studies for the manufacture of a sporty national, in the city of Belo Horizonte, in Minas Gerais.
The Farus ML 929: An Innovative Sports Car
In 1979, Farus finally introduced its first model: the Farus ML 929. This two-seater coupe, made in fiberglass, was a real innovation at the time. He had a own chassis in double Y and independent suspensions on four wheels, something rare for cars produced on a small scale in Brazil. The engine, with 1.3 liter and double body carburetor, was the same as Fiat 147 Rally, while the 4-speed gearbox also came from the Fiat.
The ML 929 was equipped with four-wheel disc brakes, an advanced feature for the period, as many sports cars of the time still used simpler braking systems. The model was designed to be exclusive, with retractable headlights, Corcel II taillights and two trunk: one front and one rear, something unusual for series production cars.
Production of the ML 929, initially limited, was expanded in 1980, with an assembly line that allowed the manufacture of up to 15 units per month. The model, with its proposal luxurious, included air conditioning, electric windows, leather seats It is sunroof. The quality of the finish and performance of the ML 929 caught the attention of the public and specialist critics, placing Farus on a new level of recognition.
Farus TS 1.6: Power and Performance
In 1982, in the Auto Show from Sao Paulo, Farus presented the TS 1.6, a version of the ML 929 equipped with a more powerful engine. Instead of the Fiat's 1.3 engine, the TS 1.6 adopted the VW Passat TS 1.6 engine, capable of generating 96 hp. With this engine, the car's performance was even more daring, attracting consumers looking for more power and sportiness.
The mechanics also underwent important changes. The engine was now installed in a longitudinal, with the gearbox positioned backwards and the propeller forwards. This change contributed to the dynamics of the model, maintaining exceptional stability and performance. Inside, the TS 1.6 maintained the standard equipment of the previous model, such as air conditioning, but with some updates, such as the new taillight from VW Voyage, which helped to distinguish the more powerful version.
The Farus Beta: Elegance and Versatility
In 1984, Farus continued its evolution with the launch of the Farus Beta, a model that could be found in two versions: coupe It is convertible. Beta was also innovative, offering a Monza's 1.8 GM engine positioned so transversal between the axles of the car, something that guaranteed a good weight distribution and, consequently, better performance and drivability.
In addition, the Beta offered the option of a automatic transmission, something rare for national cars of the time, and reinforced the brand's tendency to offer cutting-edge technology. In 1986, the 1.8 engine was replaced by a 2.0 also from Monza, further improving performance.
The Farus Quadro: The Last Creation
In 1989, Farus presented its latest creation: the Farus Quadro. Inspired by Audi Quattro in the 80s, the Quadro distanced itself from previous models by adopting a more conventional design and traction front. Although I had a peripheral tubular chassis and continued to offer the brand's characteristic finishing quality, the Quadro did not have the same impact as its predecessors.
With four seats (2+2) it is a front engine, the Framework reflected the changes that were happening in the Brazilian automobile industry, with imports being allowed again. Farus, which was previously the only option for a national sports car, now faced a new competitive scenario, which limited the success of its latest model.
Curiosities: Partnerships and Unfinished Projects
Farus' history is also marked by some interesting partnerships and projects, which, unfortunately, were not completed. In 1982, the brand launched a Gucci special series of the TS 1.6, which stood out for its refined finish and some exclusive details, such as stereo sound It is hot air.
Another project that fell by the wayside was the Fargo, a line of vans, pickups and vans, which should use an engine Fiat diesel and be destined for export. Unfortunately, the project was not completed, but if it had been, it could have further expanded the Farus brand into the international market.
Farus also tried to conquer the market of United States, forming a partnership with a North American importer in 1986. The plan was to export a large number of models to the US, but the idea of equipping the cars with engines Chrysler 2.2 brought production and logistics challenges, which made the implementation of the project difficult. Despite this, the brand was exposed in New York Salon 1987, receiving praise in the North American market.
The End of Farus: Bankruptcy and Legacy
In 1990, Farus was sold to a business group from São Paulo, but in 1991, brand has been officially closed. The end of Farus came at a time when the Brazilian automobile industry was changing drastically. The imports were allowed again, which made it difficult for small national sports car factories to survive. Farus, which had produced around 1,200 cars, was unable to adapt to this new reality.
Despite the brand's premature end, the legacy of Farus remains to this day. The models created by the Russo family continue to be admired by collectors and enthusiasts of classic cars It is outstanding. They are remembered for innovative technology, for the bold design and for the ability to create sports cars that, even in a time of limitations, managed to stand out.
Conclusion: Farus and His Legacy in Brazil in 2024
Today, in 2024, Farus' memory lives on among car lovers. In a Brazil with an increasingly globalized automobile market, brands that have dared like Farus can be seen as visionaries, anticipating trends that were only embraced by larger automakers years later.
Although Farus went bankrupt in 1991, its story is a reminder that with passion It is innovation, it is possible to challenge the limits of the industry and create something unique. For collectors and enthusiasts who still preserve the brand's models, Farus is more than a car manufacturer: it is an icon of the Brazilian motorsport, which, despite not having lasted long, left an indelible mark on the history of national sports.
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