ATS (Italy) - AllCarIndex

Automobili Turismo Sport SpA (A.T.S.) was an Italian automotive manufacturer based in Bologna, founded in 1962 by Count Volpi di Misurata, Giorgio Billi, and Jaime Ortez-Padno. The company emerged in the wake of significant personnel changes at Ferrari, where several key figures departed to pursue new ventures. Initially, the founders aimed to develop a Formula 1 project, enlisting notable figures such as engineer Carlo Chiti and drivers Phil Hill and Carlo Baghetti. However, the Formula 1 endeavor did not achieve the desired success.

In addition to its racing ambitions, A.T.S. developed a road-going grand tourer, the A.T.S. 2500 GT, which was introduced at the 1963 Geneva Salon. This model was notable for being only the second mid-engined road car produced, following the René Bonnet Djet. The A.T.S. 2500 GT featured a tubular chassis and triangulated suspension, reflecting contemporary racing practices. It was powered by a 2.5-liter V8 engine, which was capable of producing 210 bhp and achieving a top speed of 150 mph (241 km/h). The car's bodywork, designed by Allemano, was recognized for its aesthetic appeal.

A lighter GTS version of the 2500 GT, equipped with a more powerful 245 bhp engine, was showcased in 1964 and participated in the Targa Florio. Despite these efforts, A.T.S.'s operations dwindled, and by the mid-1960s, the company had largely ceased production, with estimates suggesting that only between six and twelve units of the 2500 GT were completed.