Shop in New Jersey created an Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato replica based on an old Chevrolet Malibu
- An American shop has recreated the Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato
- The replica supercar uses a Chevrolet Malibu as the donor car
- Extra details including the flush door handles and sloping tailgate
Published on Feb 23, 2025 at 10:00 AM (UTC+4)
by Henry Kelsall
Last updated on Feb 19, 2025 at 12:32 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Tom Wood
An American automotive shop has crafted its own version of the Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato, except this time, it has used the Chevrolet Malibu as the basis for its creation.
The shop, located in New Jersey, was made by Customs by Flash, and they have clearly put a lot of time and effort into replicating the Zagato.
However, it is clear that it is a replica, with some unusual proportions giving the game away.
The makers have dubbed the car the ‘Manta Ray’, and it’s certainly an improvement over the standard Malibu.
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Custom parts replicate the Vanquish Zagato look
Customs by Flash have gone all-in with this supercar recreation.
Much of the components were crafted by hand, including the hood, which is made from lightweight aluminum.
The side reveals some of the car’s most intricate details.
The creators have attempted to recreate the door style for the Aston Martin to the point they’ve even made flush door handles for the old Chevy.
The headlights also bear a striking resemblance to the real Vanquish Zagato.
The big front grille and new black wheels further add to the Zagato look.
It’s only when you get closer to the car that you begin to realize that something is slightly amiss.
The gorgeous red paintwork helps to keep the illusion intact.
The rear of the Zagto replica has lots of great details
It is perhaps around the back that makes the Zagato replica look so good.
The creators have recreated the sloping tailgate, with it even including the circular taillights, further adding to the Aston Martin illusion.
Originally, the Chevrolet Malibu had two tailpipes mounted on either side of the car.
The Malibu also had a very simple rear diffuser.
Now, the Malibu boasts a complex two-tailpipe setup that is fully functioning and sits in the center of the rear end.
Gone is the old diffuser, too, and now comes a much more complex setup at the back of the car.
Keeping the car relatively low-key is the fact it has no Aston Martin or Zagato badges on any of the bodywork.
It actually runs with Chevrolet Corvette emblems.
It’s an odd choice, but it is perhaps why the car has earned the nickname ‘Manta Ray’.
Henry is a content writer with nearly ten years experience, having written for various publications since 2017. Qualifying with a Sports Journalism degree from Staffordshire University, Henry loves all things automotive but has a particular soft spot for classic Japanese cars and anything Lancia. He also has a curious passion for steam locomotives.
