Puma is a Brazilian car manufacturer known for creating sports and racing cars. Founded by Rino Malzoni, a Brazilian businessman and car enthusiast, it was initially based in Matão, São Paulo. Puma’s cars were unique for using Volkswagen and later General Motors mechanicals, known for their fiberglass bodies and stylish designs. They were created primarily for sports car enthusiasts, offering a distinctive blend of Brazilian flair and reliable mechanicals. Puma cars became symbols of Brazilian automotive passion and skill.
Puma, a notable Brazilian car brand, was born out of a blend of passion and innovation. Founded in 1964 in Matão, São Paulo, by Rino Malzoni, a visionary Brazilian businessman, it marked Brazil’s foray into sports car manufacturing. Initially, Puma utilized DKW components but soon shifted to Volkswagen parts, a strategic move that married German engineering with Brazilian design flair. Known for their fiberglass bodies, these cars were not just lightweight but also visually striking, making them stand out in the sports car domain.
The 1970s saw Puma expanding its reach, exporting cars to different countries, and gaining international acclaim for its unique designs and robust performance. This era was the pinnacle of Puma’s success, with models like the GTB (using General Motors chassis) and GTE becoming iconic. However, the 1980s brought challenges due to economic and political shifts in Brazil, leading to difficulties in sourcing parts and financial instability.
Despite these hurdles, Puma persisted, adapting to changing market conditions. Yet, by the late 1990s, the company faced insurmountable financial issues, leading to its closure. Puma’s legacy, however, endures, remembered for its pioneering spirit and contribution to Brazil’s automotive history. The brand symbolizes a unique chapter where creativity and performance converged, leaving a lasting impression on car enthusiasts worldwide.
What is Puma?
Puma, an emblematic Brazilian car manufacturer, carved its niche in automotive history with its distinctive sports cars. Founded in the mid-1960s, Puma combined sleek fiberglass designs with robust mechanics, primarily from Volkswagen, creating vehicles celebrated for their unique aesthetics and spirited performance. This brand stands as a testament to Brazil’s innovative contribution to the global sports car scene.
The logo presents a stylized, angular depiction of a puma’s head, encapsulated within a sharp-edged rectangular frame. Bold, geometric shapes form the fierce visage, predominantly in a striking yellow, outlined by solid black. Below, the word “PUMA” stretches in a broad, blocky typeface, underscored by a checkered motif, hinting at the brand’s racing heritage. The overall design conveys a sense of aggressive elegance and speed.