Introduction to Puma
The Puma car company is a Brazilian automobile manufacturer best known for producing sleek, lightweight sports cars from the 1960s to the 1990s. Utilizing fiberglass bodies and Volkswagen mechanical components, Puma cars became a symbol of Brazilian creativity, resourcefulness, and enthusiasm for motoring during an era when the country had strict import restrictions on foreign vehicles.
Origins: Lumimari and the First Puma (1964–1966)
Puma’s origins trace back to a small company called Lumimari, founded by Rino Malzoni, an Italian-Brazilian designer and engineer. In 1964, Malzoni built a race car called the GT Malzoni, originally based on a DKW chassis. The car used a fiberglass body and achieved considerable success in local racing.
GT Malzoni to Puma GT
Following racing success, Lumimari rebranded as Puma Veículos e Motores and developed the Puma GT, a more refined version for road use. These early Pumas used the DKW-Vemag drivetrain, which consisted of a three-cylinder, two-stroke engine.
Volkswagen Partnership and Expansion (1967–1970s)
In 1967, DKW-Vemag ceased operations in Brazil, prompting Puma to switch to Volkswagen components. This transition marked a turning point, as VW-based Pumas became more reliable, affordable, and easier to maintain.
Puma GT 1500
The first Volkswagen-powered model, the Puma GT 1500, used the chassis and mechanicals from the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia. The fiberglass body, designed by Malzoni, remained stylish and low-slung, contributing to the car’s exotic appearance.
Puma GTE and GTS
In the early 1970s, Puma introduced updated versions of its sports car lineup:
- Puma GTE – A coupe model featuring a VW Type 1 (Beetle) platform and a rear-mounted air-cooled engine.
- Puma GTS – A convertible roadster variant of the GTE, equally popular among enthusiasts.
These models enjoyed success throughout the decade, with strong domestic sales and limited exports to Europe, South Africa, and North America.
Technical Simplicity and Appeal
Puma’s formula was simple but effective: lightweight fiberglass bodies, reliable Volkswagen powertrains, and stylish designs. The cars offered a fun-to-drive experience and exotic looks at a fraction of the cost of European sports cars.
Custom Interiors
Despite using humble mechanical parts, Puma invested effort into giving their cars custom interiors with supportive bucket seats, sporty gauges, and bespoke steering wheels — enhancing their appeal.
Later Developments and Models (1980s)
As the company matured, Puma continued updating its lineup and experimenting with new designs.
Puma GTI and GTI Coupé
In the 1980s, Puma introduced the GTI, a more modern coupe based on the Brazilian VW Brasília platform. It featured improved aerodynamics and updated styling while maintaining VW mechanicals.
Puma AM Series
The AM1 and AM2 were restyled sports cars launched during the 1980s, with more angular bodywork and updated interiors. However, increased competition and economic challenges began to affect Puma’s performance.
Challenges and Decline (Late 1980s–1990s)
By the late 1980s, Puma was struggling due to a combination of economic instability in Brazil, increased competition from foreign automakers (as import laws relaxed), and the aging nature of its vehicles’ VW-based platforms.
Ownership Changes
The company underwent multiple ownership changes and attempted to diversify into utility vehicles and trucks. Unfortunately, these efforts were unsuccessful, and Puma ceased regular automobile production in the early 1990s.
Revival Efforts and Modern Era
Enthusiast support for Puma remained strong, and several attempts to revive the brand were made in the 2000s and 2010s.
Puma GT Lumimari Concept
A tribute to the original GT Malzoni, this concept car aimed to bring Puma’s spirit into the modern age with updated styling and performance. Though it generated interest, mass production did not materialize.
Puma Automóveis Ltda (Modern Revival)
A new company with the rights to the Puma name has begun producing custom and kit cars, as well as electric versions of classic models, tapping into nostalgia and sustainability trends.
Legacy of Puma
Puma remains one of the most celebrated car brands in Brazilian history. Its influence on local motorsports, car culture, and manufacturing innovation is undeniable.
Collector Interest
Puma cars, especially the early GT Malzoni and VW-powered GTE/GTS models, are now collectible classics. Clubs and enthusiast groups in Brazil and abroad help preserve and restore these unique vehicles.
Design Inspiration
Puma’s cars blended Italian-inspired styling with affordable components, making them aspirational yet attainable — a trait admired by collectors and fans to this day.
Conclusion
The story of Puma is one of passion, ingenuity, and national pride. Despite limited resources and a volatile economic environment, the company produced distinctive and beloved cars that left a lasting impression in Brazil and beyond. With continued interest from enthusiasts and revivalists, Puma’s feline spirit lives on.
