Autozam AZ-1 Liberty Walk LB40 (SEMA 2025 Show Car, first in U.S.)

A rare custom Autozam AZ-1 arriving at and leaving Winter Drive 2025, organized by Purist Group, at Industry Hills Expo Center. The AZ-1, marketed and sold under Mazda's Autozam brand, is a Kei car featuring unique styling with a rear-mid-engined layout and gullwing doors. It is powered by a 657cc turbocharged engine producing 63 horsepower and 63 lb-ft of torque. This imported example, one of 4,392 AZ-1s built between 1992 and 1994, has been modified with a Liberty Walk LB40 body kit inspired by the Ferrari F40, Inozetek FK101 Cyber Steal PPF, AL13 C007R three-piece wheels, Armytrix exhaust, and Sparco seats. The car made its debut at the Inozetek booth at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas and is the first Liberty Walk LB40 in the U.S.

Liberty Walk has always been a subject of controversy, and this creation just elevated things to a new level. First, it's based on a humble but quirky Kei car. Second, its design is undoubtedly based on the iconic Ferrari F40, so much so that even the "LB40" name and font clearly reference it. Some will look down on this car like they would a Testarossa replica based on a Fiero. But let's be honest, the proportions of this car are so radically different from a real F40 that you're more likely to mistake a Lego creation for the real thing. I can't help but wonder, though, how the folks in Maranello feel about it given their history of being notoriously heavy-handed when it comes to custom creations not built to their taste. And I assume Liberty Walk had thought about all this and considered its options before putting this kit into production. At the end of the day, this car is simply a fusion of creativity, quirkiness, and humor, like a little kid in an elaborate Halloween costume. The shiny wrap and custom exhaust only further drive the point home. Wherever you drive the LB40, it's sure to turn heads, start conversations, and make people smile. And I'm so glad there's now one right here in the States.

Do you think this Ferrari-inspired Autozam body kit is a creative idea, or do you think Liberty Walk should have come up with an all-original design instead? Leave a comment on YouTube and let me know!