Marussia B2 Standard
The Marussia B2, unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, represented an audacious attempt to create Russia's first indigenous supercar. Founded by former racing driver Nikolai Fomenko and backed by Russian investors, Marussia Motors aimed to prove that Russian engineering could compete with the established European supercar establishment.
The B2 was the more refined and practical successor to the original B1 prototype. Built around a steel tubular space frame with carbon fiber body panels, the B2 was remarkably light at just 1,100 kg. The mid-mounted Cosworth-tuned 3.5-liter V6 with twin turbochargers produced 420 horsepower, giving the B2 a power-to-weight ratio that rivaled cars costing three times as much. A 6-speed sequential gearbox with paddle shifters transmitted power to the rear wheels.
The design was dramatic and aggressive, with a low, wedge-shaped nose, large air intakes, and a distinctive rear end featuring four round taillights. The B2 stood just 1,137 mm tall — lower than a Lamborghini Gallardo. Pushrod-actuated double-wishbone suspension at all four corners, derived from racing technology, provided exceptional handling for a car at this price point.
Inside, the B2 was more spartan than its European competitors, reflecting both the startup's limited resources and a deliberate emphasis on driving purity. A digital instrument cluster, carbon fiber trim, and racing-style bucket seats dominated the cockpit. Build quality was inconsistent, a common trait of low-volume startup manufacturers.
Marussia's ambitions extended beyond road cars. The company partnered with Virgin Racing to create the Marussia Virgin Racing Formula 1 team, which competed from 2012 to 2015 (latterly as Manor Marussia). However, the F1 program's costs ultimately contributed to the company's financial difficulties.
Marussia Motors filed for bankruptcy in 2014, and only a small number of B1 and B2 cars were completed. The exact production figures remain disputed, with estimates ranging from fewer than 30 to approximately 50 across both models. Some partially completed cars were reportedly left at the factory when it closed. Despite its short lifespan, the Marussia B2 remains a fascinating footnote in automotive history — Russia's answer to Lotus and Noble, a lightweight, driver-focused supercar from the most unlikely of origins.
Extremely rare — verify authenticity thoroughly. Check carbon fiber body panels for delamination or poor repairs. The Cosworth-tuned V6 is relatively serviceable but Marussia-specific components are unobtainable. Verify that the sequential gearbox operates smoothly. Check for electrical issues which were common. The tubular space frame should be inspected for corrosion or crash damage. Given the company's bankruptcy, no manufacturer support exists.
Built in very limited numbers at Marussia's facility in Moscow. Exact production figures disputed — estimates range from 20-50 B1 and B2 cars combined. Company went bankrupt in 2014. Some partially completed cars abandoned at the factory. The B2 was offered with both naturally aspirated and turbocharged V6 options. Marussia also operated a Formula 1 team (2012-2015).