In the 1970s, Brazil was experiencing the height of the ban on automobile imports.
To cater to an audience looking for exclusive sports cars, the famous “extra-series” cars emerged.
Brands like Puma, MP Lafer, Miura It is Adamo were present with limited production models, generally based on air-cooled Volkswagen mechanics.
However, the Corona Dardo was an exception to the rule.
The initiative came from Corona SA, a truck body manufacturer belonging to the Caloi Group, famous for bicycles.
Determined to create something innovative, the company sought inspiration in Italy. In 1978, at the São Paulo Auto Show, the Corona Dart, an authorized replica of the Fiat X 1/9.
The first phase of the Dart was named F 1.3, in reference to the 1300cc engine of the Fiat 147 Rallye, which delivered modest 72 horsepower.
If you are lucky enough to find one Corona Dart in good condition, you are in front of a piece of Brazilian automotive history.
More than a car, it is a celebration of the inventiveness that marked a generation.