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Porsche Riding Giddy Heights With the Wildly Successful Taycan

In the first nine months of 2021, Porsche sold 28,640 Taycan units, about 13.2% of the carmaker’s total volume and a massive year-on-year increase of over 160%. More impressive is the fact that the EV outsold Porsche’s iconic 911 for the first time over the same period.

It is worth mentioning here that the Porsche Taycan is only in its 2nd full year of production, having been launched at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show. Sales likely would have been even higher, were it not for the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the global chip shortage ravaging the automobile sector. The sales volume paints a pretty upbeat picture when you remember that the Taycan’s prices range from $81,000 to $185,000, depending on the model variant.

Via Motor1.

Today, the Taycan ranks only behind the Cayenne and Macan (both SUVs) in global sales. Clearly, Porsche has hit a home run with its sole EV offering.

The Taycan’s remarkable achievement, in such a short period, perfectly sets the stage for Porsche’s electrification drive as the carmaker looks to expand its EV offering to other vehicle types in its lineup.

The Porsche Taycan: Sowing the Seeds

It is possible Porsche might not have anticipated the runaway success of what is currently the only all-electric vehicle in its lineup. However, that does not mean the carmaker did not put in the work needed to ensure the Taycan had a smooth introduction into the market. The launch of the Taycan was the result of several years of research and development rather than a quickfire ‘bandwagon’ approach.

Interestingly, you would have to go back to the roots of the carmaker’s history to establish Porsche’s connection with electrification. Ferdinand Porsche, the company’s founder, was always fascinated by electricity.

In 1893, Porsche was able to successfully install an electric system at his parent’s house. Four years later, he was Head of Testing at an electrical engineering firm called Vereinigte Elektrizitäts-AG Béla Egger in Austria, and the first vehicles he designed had electric drives.

In 1900, Porsche was responsible for the world’s first functional hybrid car, dubbed the ‘Semper Vivus,’ Latin for ‘always alive.’ a year later, the production version of the vehicle, known as the Lohner-Porsche Mixte, was ready.

Via Cartype.

The Mixte was far ahead of the technology at the time, which ultimately proved to be its undoing. The available infrastructure just was not ready for any form of large-scale electromobility research and development.

The dream, though, never really died. The idea of electrification was finally revived at Porsche AG, about a century later, buoyed by advancements in the development of lithium-ion batteries.

Via netcarshow.

First, there was the 2010 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid, followed by the 2012 Panamera S Hybrid. Porsche also conducted tests with three all-electric Porsche 911s in 2011.

Other cars, like the 918 Spyder and 911 GT3 R Hybrid race car followed, with each breakthrough allowing Porsche to gain valuable experience to develop its first all-electric vehicle. There were no cutting corners with the Taycan. By the time the production spec was ready, Porsche had invested about $1 billion with over 1,000 employees involved during the development process at one point or the other.

From Mission E to the Porsche Taycan

Via Porsche Newsroom.

One of the highlights at the 2015 Frankfurt International Auto Show was the Mission E, a concept car showcased by Porsche. The EV concept had an 800-volt drive system, boasted more than 600-hp and a battery range in excess of 300 miles.

The Mission E was very fast too, with the ability to rocket from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 3.5 seconds. The interior featured innovative technology with instruments controlled via eye-tracking and hand gestures. Porsche, with the board’s full support, were clear about their intentions to bring the car into production before the end of the decade.

By June 2018, the name of the planned production all-electric sports car was revealed as the Taycan. Picking the name was an elaborate process that involved whittling down a selection of over six hundred ideas.

Taycan is a blend of two Turkish terms that roughly translates to ‘soul of a spirited young horse.’ Interest continued to build up in the launch of the Porsche Taycan, and reservations hit 30,000 deposits by July 2019, forcing Porsche to revise initial production estimates of 20,000 units in the first production year.

Via Our Auto Expert.

Finally, in September 2019, after four years of hard, relentless work, the German carmaker debuted the production version of the Taycan. It was the first production all-electric vehicle to utilize a two-speed transmission and an 800-volt architecture for quicker acceleration and faster charging times.

Porsche tried as much as possible to stick to the design language of the Mission E, but there were differences—like the wider intakes and a deployable rear wing on the Taycan. The Taycan also ditched the suicide doors of the concept and adopted a flatter roofline to create more headspace for rear passengers.

Model Variants: Milking the Porsche Taycan

Via Motor Authority.

Porsche took advantage of the strong interest surrounding the Taycan and made the car available in two variants at launch. There was the Taycan Turbo and the more potent Taycan Turbo S version.

Both variants generate a restricted 616-hp to protect the drivetrain from overheating. Still, there’s an ‘overboost’ function that can briefly push this number out to 670-hp for the Turbo and a thumping 750-hp for the Turbo S.

The Taycan Turbo S, making full use of its instant torque and all-wheel-drive, could fly to 60 mph in a scant 2.4 seconds, matching the time set by the Tesla Model S in Cheetah mode. The Turbo version wasn’t far behind, with a 0 to 60 mph sprint clocked at 3 seconds flat.

Via Top Gear.

The launch models were quickly followed by the Taycan 4S, offered with a choice of two battery packs for different performance levels. The lower capacity 71 KwH battery pack was good for 522-hp, and the 83.7 KwH pushed up to 562-hp to all four wheels. They were not as quick as the Taycan Turbo models, but they cost less and allowed Porsche to capture more of the market.

In 2021, Porsche went further and introduced an even cheaper new base Taycan model that was rear-wheel-drive only. This one came with a standard 79.2-kWh battery and a rear permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor that made 402-hp. It cost over $20,000 less than the Taycan 4S and helped keep up the sales momentum for the Taycan brand.

Via Guide Auto Web.

Today, a quick visit to the Porsche website will show that you can now purchase the Taycan in eight different model variants. In addition to the ones earlier mentioned, there is now a Taycan Cross Turismo that can be obtained in four different variants—the Taycan 4 Cross Turismo, Taycan 4S Cross Turismo, Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo and the Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo.

Apart from introducing new models, Porsche has also continued to tweak the architecture of the existing lineup, making the Taycan an even more capable performance EV. For example, the 2022 models feature better thermal management setups, an improved operating system, and can now be parked remotely using a smartphone.

The Journey Ahead for the Porsche Taycan

Porsche’s 2021 performance for the first three quarters shows a 13% increase year on year. SUVs like the Macan drive this growth, but the Taycan has also played a significant role with a nearly three-fold increase in deliveries, even though the Taycan generally costs significantly more than rivals in the same segment.

For example, the Taycan Turbo S costs about $80,000 more than the Tesla Model S Performance. Porsche executives will be undoubtedly pleased by this as it tells them their customers are quite receptive to their EVs. It bodes well for the carmaker, especially as an all-electric Macan is expected to join the Taycan next year.

Via Motortrend.

The Taycan’s success is still on an upward trajectory, judging by recent happenings. There might be eight Taycan models currently available in the market, but Porsche is not done yet, and who can blame them?

The carmaker just unveiled the 2022 Porsche Taycan GTS and the Taycan GTS Sport Turismo at the 2021 L.A. Auto Show. The Taycan GTS boasts a 504km (313 miles) driving range, the first Taycan model to crack the 500km barrier. The new additions will roll out to dealers in the Spring of 2022.

Via netcarshow.

Prior to the announcement of the new additions to the Taycan family, Porsche CEO Oliver Brume gave another indication of how well the Taycan was performing during a September 2021 interview with Reuters.

Brume confirmed there’s now a six-month waiting list for a new Taycan. That’s up from the usual four-month wait. He added that the planned 2021 production limit was 20,000 Taycans, but the carmaker sold that amount in the first half of the year alone.

The challenge now would be for Porsche to find a way to ramp up production in the face of the automobile sector’s current challenges. It is a ‘good’ problem to have, but resolving it will be vital for preventing the Taycan from becoming a victim of its own success.

That may yet turn out to be an extreme scenario, though, and I wouldn’t bet against the German carmaker finding a way to turn things around as far as production capacities are concerned. For now, they can continue to bask in the Taycan’s success.

December 1, 2021 / Comments Off

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Up close with the 2022 Range Rover

Remember we talked about the brand new 2022 model year Range Rover a while ago here on Supercars.net? Well, you can’t drive one yet as the first customer cars will only be available in the Spring of 2022, but there are pre-production prototypes around already, and it seems YouTuber Doug deMuro managed to find one to get close and personal to and talk about ‘all the quirks and features’ of it, unfortunately being a prototype he wasn’t allowed to drive it, but she’s a beauty, so let’s take a look at his 24-minute video before we talk details on this new full-size SUV from the famous Range Rover brand:

[embedded content] [embedded content]

Prof Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Officer, Jaguar Land Rover, said, “The New Range Rover is a vehicle with a peerless character, from the impeccable restraint of its exterior to the flawless tranquil sanctuary of its cabin. Informed by creative intellect and a desire for perfection, it doesn’t follow fashion or trend, but by a modernist design philosophy, combined with over 50 years of evolution, it is quite simply the most desirable Range Rover ever created.”

The MY2022 Range Rover is the first completely new model since 2014, and while it deliberately looks familiar, a lot is actually different compared to the outgoing model, base pricing starts at $105,000, but if you know anything about previous Range Rovers, you understand that’s just the start, and the massive options list and the possibility to create your bespoke model can skyrocket that price very quickly.

Wheels are a nice 21-inch as standard, but for the first time on a Range Rover you can opt for massive 23-inch tall wheels like the ones seen on the Autobiography LWB version of the above video, and another first for the MY22 Range Rover is the third row of seats, two additional units, only available on the Long Wheel Base model, but still, it’s possible now, but you can also opt to have your special Range Rover come with just four seats, and those rear ones are just absolutely stunning and immensely comfortable while that central console houses all kinds of amenities.

Nick Rogers, Executive Director, Product Engineering, Jaguar Land Rover, said, “The New Range Rover combines supreme on-road and all-terrain capability with electrified propulsion and new levels of connected capability. In the quest for comfort, we have been obsessed with human science and understanding brain activity to minimize cognitive impact and ensure these advanced technologies work in absolute harmony, creating a truly effortless driving experience. It’s an engineer’s duty to make people’s lives better, and that’s exactly what the New Range Rover will do for you.”

For the 2023 model year a PHEV will join the two petrol engines we’ll see in 2022, the extended-range plug-in hybrid (PHEV) will come with the inline 6-cylinder Ingenium engine coupled to a 105kW electric motor integrated with the transmission, power for this motor will come from a 38.2kWh lithium-ion battery, this setup will allow up to 62 miles of near-silent pure-electric driving, total power output will be 434 hp and this PHEV will be able to reach 87 mph on electric power only.

November 30, 2021 / Comments Off

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2022 BMW XM Specs and Pricing – Most Powerful SUV in the World

BMW M GmbH presented the new BMW Concept XM at the Art Basel 2021 Miami Beach Show in Munich. The new BMW Concept XM looks forward to being the most powerful BMW M car to go into series production and also shines the spotlight on stand out aspects of the M brand. Meet the latest Super SUV from BMW.

The new concept model will be built at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in the USA from the end of 2022. It will be the first standalone vehicle from BMW M since BMW M1 and will be available in plug-in hybrid form only and exclusively as an M model.

BMW XM Specs and Pricing

Powertrain	V8 Twin-Turbo Hybrid (V8 engine + electric motor)
Output HP	750 nm
Output Torque	1,000 nm
0-62 mph (0-100 km/h)
Top Speed	177mph est. (284km/h)
Price	$150,000 est.

A new M Hybrid drive system installed in the XM combines a V8 engine and a high-performance electric motor to generate a maximum output of 750 hp and 1000 Nm of peak torque. The vehicle also features an all-electric range of up to 80km.

The front end of the new XM concept features a new progressive design for BMW’s luxury class model which will be seen for the first time in 2022 as part of the BMW model offensive in the luxury segment. The headlights have been split into two separate modules, the horizontal grille has been fitted between the headlights and tapers and the black kidney grille elements are enclosed within a surround that appears to be floating within a High-gloss Black surface.

The front end also features M-style double bars within the grille, unique contour lighting that ensures the kidneys and the daytime driving lights are recognizable in the dark as well and new XM logo on the kidney grille and on the large air intakes.

Additionally, the color of the roof contrasts with the black finish of the A-pillars, the windscreen has a heavier rake for injecting modern dynamism into the front end, Slim LED searchlights have been fitted on the roof above the A-pillars, the sculpted bonnet extend to the kidney grilles in the form of two domes and a pair of air intakes fitted in the bonnet mimics the appearance of the LED searchlights on the roof.

Furthermore, the clean-cut black surfaces of the front apron frame the statuesque body at its lower edge whereas the triangular blades on the outer edges accentuate the vertical air intakes while emphasizing on the sporty stance of the vehicle.

The new concept model has been finished in a two-tone paint finish, the upper section is in matt-gold bronze while the lower section is finished in Space Grey metallic. The two exterior colors have been separated by a high-gloss Black line known as ‘Black Belt’.

The rear exterior of the vehicle features L shaped rear lights extended into the car’s flanks, black cladding above the wheels and on the side skirts gives the body an elevated appearance and the elongated body has been mounted on 23 inch light-alloy wheels. The rear apron also features a dual-branch, twin-tailpipe exhaust system for reducing the backpressure of the engine and generating an M-typical soundtrack.

The interior design features powerful geometry and high quality materials on the instrument panel, door trim, centre console and on the seats. The cabin consists of brown vintage-look leather, copper and carbon fibre elements to create a bridge between luxury and motor sport.

The spacious and luxurious M Lounge features black tinted rear side windows for maximum privacy, large rear seat bench with deep seat recess and while the cockpit is dominated by brown leather, the rear is finished in a rich Petrol color shade. The lower section of the seats offer high comfort and an exclusive couch with luxurious velvet upholstery and diamond quilting.

The new BMW Curved display with M-specific user interface is based on the latest generation of BMW iDrive system. The user interface is showcased in three familiar M colors and provides the perfect stage for showing off the bespoke design of the vehicle.

Once more, the new BMW XM will be the first electrified high-performance model in the BMW M portfolio and will be available as an M hybrid only.

2022 BMW XM

November 30, 2021 / Comments Off

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Low Mileage 1998 Acura NSX-T 6-Speed On Offer At Bring A Trailer

The Acura NSX hype is real and if you’re itching to get your hands on one of these rare examples, then you’re in luck as a low-mileage 1998 Acura NSX-T is currently on offer at Bring A Trailer.

This NSX is only one of the 55 examples that were given a Formula Red (R-77) finish for the 1998 model year with a matching removable roof panel. The example has pop-up headlights and an integrated rear wing. It was also given 16- and 17-inch wheels with Kumho Ecsta XS tires, with the front tires measuring 215/45 while the rear measures 245/40. There is some curb rash on the wheels, with the tires have a mix of 2015 and 2013 date codes.

The interior is finished in black leather upholstery, and it extends up to the console, door panel inserts, and the dashboard. It is also equipped with power-adjustable seats, cruise control, automatic climate control, and a Bose cassette stereo.

The dashboard features a 180-mph speedometer, a tachometer with 8k rpm redline, speedometer, and gauges for fuel, oil pressure, coolant temperature, and voltage. The mechanical speedometer shows 21k miles with roughly 50 miles added by the selling dealer.

Under the hood is a 3.2-liter C23B V6 that uses VTEC variable valve timing matched to a six-speed manual transaxle with a Torsen limited-slip differential that gives power to the rear wheels. The NSX is factory rated at 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque.

As of writing the 1998 Acura NSX-T has a bid of $98,000 with the bidding ending in less than 19 hours.

November 29, 2021 / Comments Off

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Porsche brings back classic paint colors with Paint to Sample

Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur is bringing back historic color shades on all Porsche models with the new Paint to Sample and Paint to Sample Plus option: “Unusual paint finishes have been familiar throughout the history of our brand and are an important differentiating feature,” says Alexander Fabig, Head of Individualisation and Classic. “With this offer, we are reviving cult-classic colors and expanding the extensive range of standard and special colors across all the model series by more than 160 shades.”

Custom-painted Porsches have been gaining popularity over the years, customers want to have a bespoke paint on their brand new car from Zuffenhausen, something that Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur is playing into with their Paint to Sample option, to accomplish this they’ve installed a brand new color-mixing system at the factory, allowing specialists to mix up the exact shade a client requested, from combining dozens of ingredients with milligram precision.

Each batch of paint is made for two paint pots, one that will be used for the bodywork of the new Porsche while the second one will be applied to the add-on parts, because the mix of aluminum parts, plastics, and carbon fiberglass, the mixture to be applied has to be slightly different depending on the surface that has to be coated … they even paint a comparison plate to reference against the finished car as a final inspection.

But Paint to Sample not only covers custom colors on special demand, but they also resurrected some classic shades from the 90s, color mixtures that are already known by Porsche’s paint specialists, like Maritime Blue as seen on the Porsche Panamera below, a deep, not too dark shade of blue that gives a classic but luxurious look to this four-door model, if you want to stand out even more a set of gold-painted wheels would do the trick.

Or how about Rubystar Red, a rather special shade of red with a more pink hue to it, which looks amazing on this Porsche Taycan, at least it’s something different from the large amount of white Taycans I usually see driving around over here, it seems some markets only order black, dark grey, and white, while other markets have a much more diverse taste in colors on their luxury cars.

And let’s not forget about Mint Green, I remember seeing a 911 in this shade with color-coded leather seats, very special looking and perfect in tune with the Nineties, perhaps today a more subtle interior shade might be a better idea, but I still think black seats with their centers in matching Mint Green would look killer on this car:

The number of different paint color options largely depends on the specific Porsche model and where they are actually built, when looking at the 911 and the 718 model the list of paint colors goes beyond 100, while on the Panamera, Macan, and Cayenne, the list contains a little over 50 options, while a further 65 colors complete the palette on the all-electric Porsche Taycan.

While it is possible to order your ‘Paint to Sample’ specific shade for your new car right at the local Porsche Centre, you’ll have to keep in mind an additional three-month delivery time compared to the basic color options, and if you really want something unique, you can opt for the ‘Paint to Sample Plus’ finish, which is limited to the Porsche 911, 718, and Taycan … but here there is just about no limit whatsoever on which shade you want, it all begins with the customer supplying a sample of his or her color to a Porsche Center.

And this doesn’t need to be a piece of painted metal, how about a bottle of nail varnish, or a pair of shoes to match, a handbag, or a piece of clothing … anything goes, as it is sent out to Porsche AG for an initial feasibility check, which can take a few months, before Porsche’s color wizards create the magic formula to be tested on a car body and add-on parts … but that’s not the customer’s car yet, the first application of this custom shade is done onto a test-body, at Porsche’s expense, and only if all tests are good and they’ve determined the details, such as layer thickness, will the customer’s Porsche be painted in this bespoke shade.

Such individual vehicles can only be ordered through Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, and not every Porsche Center will be a partner, at the time of writing about 100 Exclusive Manufaktur partners are present globally, these are specifically selected Porsche Centers who are specially equipped and have trained specialists able to provide advice on the Exclusive Manufaktur product range if you really want to get the best-of-the-best you can always travel to the heart of the brand in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen, but you’ll need a commission number before you are able to visit the HQ.

Just in case you are wondering about just how much something like this would set you back, here are some indications of price, the Paint to Sample will set you back between €8,806 and €9,877 depending on the exact model, while the even more intricate Paint to Sample Plus goes from €17,612 to 19,754, note that all prices are MSRP for Germany including 19% VAT, if you want to know the exact cost in your case you should really visit a local Porsche Center and inquire about this when ordering your brand new, bespoke build Porsche supercar.

November 29, 2021 / Comments Off

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Mercedes-Benz X 350D 6-Wheeler “Black Edition”

Does anyone need an off-road Mercedes-Benz pickup truck capable of tackling any object in its path? The answer to that is probably not… especially when it has three axles, six wheels, and was almost completely…

The post Mercedes-Benz X 350D 6-Wheeler “Black Edition” first appeared on Cool Material.

Finali Mondiali Ferrari 2021

The most awaited Ferrari event of the year has finally concluded at the Mugello circuit. Finali Mondiali Ferrari 2021 took place as scheduled but still with a closed door format as last year, due to Covid restrictions, although with attendance of Media, Ferrari Fan Clubs and Ferrari employees.

The thick morning Fog didn’t stop the show, final round of Trofeo Pirelli and Coppa Shell took place crowning Finnish Luka Nurmi and Ernst Kirchmayr as winners respectively. On Saturday evening the awards ceremony for the European and North American Ferrari Challenge series winners took place, with the announcement of the venue for the 2022 Finali Mondiali, which will be held from 26 to 31 October at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola.

The gala evening was a chance to celebrate the extraordinary sporting results of the 2021 season, starting with the WEC world titles the Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Spa triumphs. During the evening, alongside Antonello Coletta, Head of Ferrari Attività Sportive GT, speakers included Chairman John Elkann, Chief Executive Officer Benedetto Vigna, Vice Chairman Piero Ferrari, Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer Enrico Galliera.

Oh yeah, Ferrari means also road supercars, FFM was also the venue chosen to unveil to the public the New Icona Series Ferrari Daytona SP3 supercar as well as the new 812 Competizione and Competizione A.

Sunday, as final act of the event, it’s Ferrari Show time! This year, introduced by the flag bearers of Castel San Barnaba, symbolising Ferrari’s bond with the local area, the Mugello public could admire the evolutions of the Formula 1 F60 and SF70-H single-seaters, driven by Giancarlo Fisichella, Andrea Bertolini and Olivier Beretta, and the 488 GTEs and 488 GT3 Evo 2020s, the stars of the WEC, GT World Challenge Europe and DTM to celebrate one of Ferrari’s most successful seasons in GT championships.

Ferrari Mondiali 2021

The final part of the programme was met by enthusiastic applause, with the new Ferrari Daytona SP3, escorted by two ladies-in-waiting, the 330 P4 and a 412 P. Mission accomplished, well done Ferrari! And see you next year!

Photos and Words by Yaron Esposito

November 29, 2021 / Comments Off

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Sir Frank Williams Passes Away At 79

Those of us that follow Formula 1 woke up to the news today that Frank Williams, the namesake of the Williams Grand Prix Engineering Formula 1 team, has passed away at the age of 79.

Frank WIlliams and Patrick Head — Patrick Head (L) and Frank Williams at the carpet warehouse that became the first HQ of Williams Grand Prix Engineering

Working out of a former carpet warehouse, Williams Grand Prix Engineering was born in 1978 after the financial struggles and near bankruptcy of his first attempt at Formula 1, Frank Williams Racing Cars. After being bought out by Candian Walter Worf in 1976, he left the team in 1977 with Patrick Head, his chief engineer, and formed the now legendary team with little more than a bank loan and promises to pay from winnings and sponsorships to cover the loan. Less than a year later, Clay Regazzoni drove an FW07 to victory at the 1979 British Grand Prix at Silverstone, and the rest, as the saying goes, is history.

A young Frank Williams during the FWRC days — Frank Williams with the plight of a team owner in the 1970s

1980 saw the team win the drivers and constructors’ titles, supporting Alan Jones in a modified FW07. Between 1981 and 1997, WGPE went on to field some of the most technically advanced cars the sport had ever seen, such as the FW14B which introduced computer-controlled active suspension, in doing so powering six more drivers to the drivers’ championship and winning the constructors championship eight more times. However, not everything would go to plan during these wild years of success, as tt was during this time period that the day that changed Frank Williams’ life forever occurred.

On the 8th of March, 1986, Williams had been at the Circuit Paul Ricard in the South of France to watch the FW11 chassis undergo high-speed testing, but was registered to run in the London Half Marathon on the 9th of March. As such, after the testing had finished, Williams, with team sponsorship manager Peter Windsor, drove a Ford Sierra 1600 car at speed to get to the Nice Cote d’Azur Airport when he lost control on a left-hand bend, went over a low stone retaining wall, and landed in a field 8 feet below the road on the driver’s side. Williams suffered a spinal fracture just below his neck and partially severed his spinal cord, rendering him a tetraplegic. He nearly died a few times in the tense 48 hours after the accident, but after urgent repatriation and an emergency tracheotomy in the UK, he survived.

Frank Williams and Nigel Mansell, 1986 — After recovering from his accident, Frank Williams was right back in the paddock before the season was over. Seen here with future champion Nigel Mansell

Frank Williams ultimately oversaw 114 grand prix wins as team principal. He was active with both the F1 team and the business side of Williams until 2012, when he stepped down from the board of directors and nominated his daughter Claire for the vacancy. From 2013 to 2020, he was a co-team principal with Claire, running more of the engineering side of things while his daughter oversaw the drivers and business delivery side. When Williams Grand Prix Engineering was bought out by Dorilton Capital Group in 2020, both Frank and Claire stepped down, ending the Williams family tenure of the team.

Ultimately, Frank Williams oversaw 50 years of competition as a team principal, and his team and company dominated the sport for nearly two decades. He survived bankruptcy, he navigated the politics of Formula 1 with skill, grace, and determination, and he didn’t let the fact that he was tetraplegic get in the way of his desire to push for every win, and have the best of the best drive and engineer for him and the team. He was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1986 after his recovery from his accident, and was made a Knight Commander of the OBE in 1999.

Sir Francis Owen Garbett Williams, CBE, born April 16 1942, will be sorely missed, and left a lasting legacy in the sport he loved so dearly.

Comments and Honours by teams and drivers on hearing of his passing:

Official Formula 1:

We are filled with the most immense and deep sadness at the passing of Sir Frank Williams

His was a life driven by passion for motorsport; his legacy is immeasurable, and will be forever part of F1

To know him was an inspiration and privilege

He will be deeply, deeply missed pic.twitter.com/48JhruQpLK

— Formula 1 (@F1) November 28, 2021

Williams Racing:

A statement from Williams Racing. pic.twitter.com/urzeKUL7bx

— Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) November 28, 2021

George Russell, the last driver personally signed to the team by Frank Williams:

Today, we say goodbye to the man who defined our team. Sir Frank was such a genuinely wonderful human being and I’ll always remember the laughs we shared. He was more than a boss, he was a mentor and a friend to everybody who joined the Williams Racing family and so many others. pic.twitter.com/bWpFivpkmi

— George Russell (@GeorgeRussell63) November 28, 2021

Nico Hulkenberg (the Hulk), signed to Williams Racing in 2009:

Rest in Peace, Sir Frank Williams!
His legacy will be forever part of F1 and I will never forget the moment in 2009 when this Man opened the door to F1 for me. pic.twitter.com/xmhWDXR6A8

— Nico Hülkenberg (@HulkHulkenberg) November 28, 2021

November 28, 2021 / Comments Off

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The Bugatti Chiron Super Sport, the world’s fastest and most luxurious GT

Due to a plethora of technological enhancements and the vast scrutiny of optimization, the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport is the fastest car ever from Bugatti made in series production, with a top speed in excess of 440 km/h, the French-based luxury brand from Molsheim gave us the world’s fastest and most luxurious Grand Tourisme, the Chiron hypercar.

And Bugatti even made a faster version, the Chiron Super Sport 300+ limited edition managed to breach the 300 mph mark back in August 2019 already, in fact, this impressive hypercar managed to reach a top speed of 304.773 mph, which converts to 490.484 km/h, almost 500 km/h, but while the 300+ version was set for ultimate high speed, the Chiron Super Sport plays on another market, the ultra-high-speed GT, still extremely fast, but more a luxury edition for the discerning customer.

To be able to reach speeds well over 400 km/h you don’t just need a lot of horsepower, you also need an aerodynamically optimized car that remains stable and safe to drive at those insane speeds, just to put this into perspective, a Boeing 777 takes off at about 285 km/h (180 mph), and while you need lots of downforce for a car driven on the track, to reach the highest top speed you’ll need a careful balance between a low drag coefficient and just the right amount of downforce.

So let’s take a look at how Bugatti managed to achieve this amazing speed with a car that is the epitome of luxury at the same time:

New Air Curtains

Above 400 km/h, a balanced and safe driving behavior is paramount. “Only perfect incoming airflow at the front of the car will keep harmful turbulence at bay and ensure that the airflow around the car stays clean,” says Frank Heyl, Deputy Design Director at Bugatti.

In order to minimize turbulence on the sides, the team integrated newly developed air curtains in front, similar to wings, which help guide the air around corners in an optimal way. At the same time, the air curtains also make sure that the airflow follows the body’s contours as closely as possible to stabilize the car. This lowers pressure losses and resistance – the ideal skin for fast driving “shaped by speed”. To achieve a perfect airflow, Bugatti engineers ran numerous simulations to arrive at the ideal curvature and thickness of the component, as well the perfect spacing between it and the front section. Additional air outlets at the front wheel arches help balance the aero loads even further.

Air Flow through the Front Section

An ideal air flow over the front of the car is equally important for a balanced driving behavior at high speeds. The optimal amount of air must pass through the radiator, so it can provide sufficient cooling for the 8.0-liter W16 engine at full load. The airflow through the Chiron Super Sport’s radiator is about 8% higher than that of the Chiron in order to guarantee a perfect air balance. In addition, most of the flow passes the new air curtains at high speed. In top speed mode, the front diffusors are positioned more horizontally and guide less air into the wheel arches.

Newly Developed Wings

Nine air outlets on the front wings reminisce at the style of the iconic super sports car of the 1990s, the Bugatti EB 110. Bugatti built the EB 110 as a super sport variant between 1993 and 1995, employing principles of lightweight constructions, as well as power, luxury and exclusivity. It was the first super sports car with a carbon fiber body, all-wheel drive and four turbo chargers. The V12 turbo delivered more than 610 PS and enabled the EB 110 Super Sport to set several records, including one for its top speed of 351 km/h. The EB 110 SS featured five cylindrical air inlets to provide the proper air flow for the engine compartment. In the Chiron Super Sport, the front wheel arches also have nine cylindrical air outlets. Thanks to Computed Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations, experts were able to calculate the exact airflow rate to achieve a perfect aero balance. By using cylindrical air outlets, Bugatti avoids situations in which the dynamic pressure in the wheel arches of the Chiron Super Sport would lift the front of the car. So, this component creates a downforce without building further resistance, as would be the case with an additional spoiler. These air outlets generate approximately 20 to 30 kilograms of additional downforce at 380 km/h, thereby helping to balance all sources of downforce.

New Wheel Arch Ventilation Function

The nine cylindrical air outlets are 30-millimeter-deep wing penetrations, connected to the respective wheel arch by a special carbon air-guiding component, which ensures optimum air flow, while preventing stones from leaving the car. At the same time, the new wings improve brake cooling. Similar to a chimney, a vacuum caused by the airflow along the car’s body extracts air from the wheel arches. In addition, the air is guided through special venting ducts and sucked out of the wheel arches behind the front wheels. Stylistically, these elements are placed like gills behind the front wheels.

Handmade Wings

The wings weigh approximately four kilograms and are hand-crafted from clear-coated carbon, with fibers running across the edges. Each of the nine cylindrical vents is a different size. For aesthetic reasons, the visible openings are identical. In addition, the newly developed wings comply with global safety regulations regarding pedestrian and impact protection. For this purpose, the very rigid construction is weakened in certain places to absorb energy. Thereby, the wings can deform in case of slow-speed impact, while remaining extremely rigid at high speeds.

A Long Tail for High Speeds

The first thing one notices when looking at the Chiron Super Sport is its tail section – referred to as a longtail – which has been extended by 25 centimeters. At high speeds, it ensures that the air flowing along the top and bottom of the vehicle creates a break-away area that is as small as possible. To achieve a balance between down forces and lifting forces, Bugatti precisely aligned the performance of the rear wing and the diffusor, by enlarging the diffusor’s profile. This moves the break-away edge upward, so that the break-away area of the tail section is minimized. This significantly reduces the losses generated in this area, leading to much lower wind resistance – which is what slows the car down.

Larger Rear Wing

In handling mode, the blade of the rear wing, which has been extended by 23 millimeters and thereby gained 8 percent in size, makes the airbrake far more efficient, in combination with the larger diffusor. In top-speed mode, however, the rear wing is retracted almost completely, allowing the car to make full use of its longtail design concept. In this way, the laminar flow can establish itself across the entire length of the car’s body, until it breaks away at a defined location of the tail section. This reduces air resistance significantly.

“In top-speed mode, the Chiron Super Sport generates only minimal resistance, making it perfectly balanced and as aerodynamically efficient as possible,” says Frank Heyl. The goal was to perfectly balance downforce and lift at speeds above 400 km/h. “The Super Sport generates just enough downforce to stay stable above 400 km/h. That’s essential at this speed to avoid putting excessive pressure on the tires,” Frank Heyl continues. At these speeds, lift is enormous, meaning the Chiron Super Sport has to neutralize it by creating considerable downforce.

Larger Diffusor

To create as little resistance as possible and stabilize the car at speeds above 400 km/h, Bugatti also had to redesign the diffusor on the underside of the Chiron Super Sport. Due to the elongated tail section, the diffusor gains about 23 millimeters in length. To increase the diffusor’s effectiveness and give it more space, Bugatti moved the exhaust section from the center to the sides. The two tailpipes are positioned one above the other to reduce the effective area of the diffusor as much as possible. This increases the total size of the diffusor by 32 percent, compared to the Chiron. “In addition, the most efficient area, the center, is freed up for uninhibited airflow and the optimum effect,” says Christoph Dobriloff, Aerodynamics Development Engineer at Bugatti.

Exhaust System made with a Titanium 3D Printing Process

The two exhaust bezels are a special feature. Titanium 3D printing was employed to create an extremely thin double-wall structure, some of it as thin as 0.4 millimeters, pushing the envelope of what is technically feasible. A lattice structure gives the component stability, and also provides space for airflow channels.

The double-wall structure insulates the titanium bezel, while the airflow reduces its temperature. To protect the surrounding carbon parts from excessive heat, the Chiron Super Sport has additional air inlets in its undercarriage. Cold air circles around the exhaust components and exits through the tail pipe bezels. This way, the exhaust gas flow, which can reach temperatures of up to 850 degrees Celsius, is surrounded by a sheath of cold air. It prevents hot exhaust fumes from impinging on the car’s tail section.

“Even at full power and top speed, exhaust gas does not influence any other components and is prevented from flowing back,” says Jens Wenge, Construction Engineer at Bugatti. Titanium itself reaches its melting point only at 1,668 degrees Celsius. Other advantages of titanium printing include precise edges and small gaps, leading to improved airflow properties and minimal rework. After the 3D-printing process is finished, a bezel is simply blasted and cleaned with compressed air. If desired, it can be painted black. In addition, a 3D-printed titanium component weighs only 930 grams, which is 570 grams or one-third lighter than a precision casting component.

W16-Engine with more Power and higher RPMs

In order to reach the top speed of 440 km/h, Bugatti stepped up the maximum power of the 8.0-liter W16-engine to 1,600 PS – an increase of 100 PS. For more agility, the engine delivers an additional 300 rpm and a higher power plateau at 7,100 rpm, up from 7,050 rpm. 1,600 newton meters of torque are available from 2,250 to 7,000 rpm, compared to 6,000 rpm before. To achieve this increase in power, engineers redesigned many components. Pistons have been reinforced. Thanks to a stiffer pressure control spring, the oil pump now supplies more lubricant at a higher pressure to engine parts like the crankshaft, valves, chain drive, camshaft adjustment and piston cooling. At full load and nominal rpms, more than 140 liters of oil flow through the pump every minute.

Higher performance and rpms have led to an increase in vibration which, in turn, creates more stress on the chain drive and the valve train, including the four camshafts and 64 valves. To improve durability at maximum rpms, Bugatti resized the bearing bolt of the chain tensioner, among other components. This also required a modification of the cylinder head. Modified valve springs with steel spring bases are now able to withstand the increased stress. In order to comply with current legal acoustic requirements, new, multi-layer, fiber-reinforced chain cases are used to reduce noise emissions. A modified torsional vibration damper at the crankshaft, which is mounted on the belt drive side, allows the engine to run much more smoothly. In addition, Bugatti adjusted the auxiliary component drive, including generator, air-conditioning compressor, water pump and tandem pump to compensate for higher rpms.

More Efficient Turbochargers

Apart from higher rpms, the increase in performance is also a product of optimized and newly developed turbochargers. All four turbos now use a compressor wheel that grew in size from 74 to 77 millimeters, to allow for a higher throughput. The turbine wheel grew from 64.4 to 67.2 millimeters in diameter, to be able to provide more compressor power, necessary for the increase in boost pressure. At full load, 4.8 tons of air flow through the four turbochargers every hour. Optimizing blade geometry improves thermodynamic efficiency. The throttle response is similar to that of the Chiron.

“Despite the increase in performance, the weight of the engine is unaffected, and the response of the turbochargers remains at the same positive level provided by the 1,500 PS engine,” says Andreas Kurowski, Engine Development Engineer at Bugatti.

New Gear Ratio

To achieve the top speed of 440 km/h, the 7-speed double clutch gearbox employs a new gear ratio. The seventh gear is 3.6 percent longer, compared to the Chiron. Due to the increased performance, at full load and full acceleration, the 7-speed double clutch gearbox shifts from sixth to seventh gear at 403 km/h. The Chiron Super Sport accelerates from 0 to 200 km/h in 5.8 seconds and reaches 300 km/h in 12.1 seconds. The difference is even greater for the acceleration from 0 to 400 km/h, a speed which the Chiron Super Sport achieves in 28.6 seconds. This makes it 12 percent, or four seconds, faster than a Chiron. To make traction interruptions during shifting imperceptible to driver and passengers, the boost pressure control has been refined for the individual gears. Even at 6,000 rpms, the acceleration continues relentlessly and gives the Chiron Super Sport an enormous push up to 7,100 rpm.

Newly Developed and Refined Chassis

Bugatti redeveloped the chassis of the Chiron Super Sport with utter focus on high-speed performance and the car’s new aerodynamics. For this reason, engineers increased the rear axle spring rate by seven percent, compared to the Chiron, in order to further stabilize the Chiron Super Sport at speeds above 420 km/h.

“The longtail design leads to a shift in axle load distribution, which we have taken into account when we tuned the chassis,” says Jachin Schwalbe, Head of Vehicle Development at Bugatti.

In combination with the longer tail section and the modified front, the Chiron Super Sport achieves an improved aero balance at high speeds. For this purpose, the engineers retuned the electronically controlled chassis and adjusted the damping of vehicle movement. Within six milliseconds, almost in real time, it adjusts the dampers and adapts to the vehicle’s movements.

New Michelin Tires for Top Speed

Newly developed Pilot-Sport-Cup-2 tires from Michelin, optimized for the higher top speed, offer more rigidity and running smoothness above 420 km/h than the Chiron. The individual tires were tested at speeds above 500 km/h. This has been made possible by a new technology using reinforced layers, capable of withstanding incredible forces – tested in a facility originally built for fighter jets. The front tires are sized 285/30 R20 ZR and the rear tires 355/25 R21 ZR. After production, every tire is x-rayed to detect even the smallest irregularities. Michelin Pilot-Sport-Cup-2 tires are designed for extreme longitudinal dynamics and therefore support the philosophy of the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport.

Lightweight Rims with a New Design

To reduce unsprung mass, Bugatti developed new five-spoke aluminum rims, weighing four kilograms less per set than those of the Chiron. They also increase rigidity for longitudinal dynamics, making them a perfect fit for the Chiron Super Sport. As an option, Bugatti offers a magnesium rim set that weighs 16 kilograms less than regular Chiron rims, thereby further reducing unsprung mass at the axles.

With the Chiron Super Sport, Bugatti developed an extreme hyper sports car. Many technical modifications and the pursuit of perfection make it the fastest production vehicle with a very own character, a unique design and an unrivaled level of luxurious comfort. Bugatti manufactures the Chiron Super Sport at its headquarters in Molsheim. The first vehicles will be delivered to their new owners in early 2022, at a net price of 3.2 million euros.

November 28, 2021 / Comments Off

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A visit to the 2021 Essen Motor Show

I know there is the world-famous SEMA show in Las Vegas, the ultimate event for tuning and customization, but over here in Europe, we have the Essen Motor Show, an annual show (the 2020 version was canceled thanks to the global pandemic) that combines sports cars, tuning & lifestyle, motorsport and classic cars all in one event, and tens of thousands of visitors from all over Europe and even from further away make the trip to Germany in late November to enjoy this impressive, mostly indoor event.

The 2021 edition was the first one after a year of absence, and sadly some strict safety and hygiene rules still exist to date, like wearing a face mask at all times, and I think this has scared away some exhibitors this year, I was able to visit the preview day as a member of the press, and it was obvious not all halls were open this year, and the halls that were in use still had some vast spaces open … it seems the organization really had a hard time filling up the space.

But that didn’t keep me from walking around the Essen Messe for hours and admiring some really amazing cars, all sorts of cars, and that’s what I like about this event, it’s not just about tuning, or classics, or any other segment of automotive interest, it’s about all of them, please enjoy some of the impressions I managed to capture today in the extensive image gallery below:

First up a series of racecars, or race-inspired concepts:

Very menacing looking, black Ford GT racecar

A genuine Lamborghini Gallardo GT3 FL2 racecar prepared by Reiter Engineering GmbH

How about something really different:

the odd ones at the 2021 Essen Motor Show

A classic rat rod, usually there are more on show in Essen

You can’t have an Essen Motor Show without a low rider … or two

A classic Mercedes 500 SEC on an airbag suspension

And then you find a genuine tractor pulling monster at the Essen Motor Show

Tuning mayhem:

A large amount of tuning is always shown at the Essen Motor Show, from the Nissan GTR over the Supra to just about any other make out there:

This extremely wide VW Golf 2 was in fact a mid-engine conversion

This satin white Wiessmann looked really amazing

It seemed the theme for this Essen Motor Show was widebody …

The Pandem kit does look very impressive, especially with that rear wing

A nice first-gen Honda NSX, in the USA this would be an Acura NSX I guess.

Low, wide, and white … beautiful Porsche on display

If you have it, flaunt it … even if that means leaving the rear bumper in your garage

Ultra wide old school VW Golf in Candy Apple red.

Wide body BMW 3-Series looking mean in this very dark metallic green

I do like the split rear wing on this widebody beauty

How low can you go? Audi R8 V10 on ‘bags’

Nope, the Stradman didn’t have a car in Germany, but it would match his LB-Works Limited Roadster.

Clean and mean, just another Nissan GTR at Essen

If you decide on adding a wrap to your car, get it right the first time and stand out from the crowd

This white Nissan GTR almost looks like it came straight from the track

I just noticed the rear fender and couldn’t resist taking a photo of this Porsche

Prior Design widebody Lamborghini Urus in ‘Lizard Lime’

Really nice Lamborghini Aventador S Roadster in matt black

Not sure what the 384 km/h stood for, but it was a special shade of red indeed

Movie cars

Usually, one or two movie cars are on display at the show, but this year there was a bundle of them

Who doesn’t remember the Dodge Charger from the Dukes of Hazzard series?

A few cars driven by Dominic from the Fast and Furious franchise

Three more cars from the earlier Fast and Furious movies

I just loved this Mustang from Gone in 60 seconds

The red Coyote, from Hardcastle and McCormick

I guess we all know where this car was used in, right?

You can’t have a show with movie cars and don’t have this famous DeLorean on display.

The final few, the odd ones:

Absolutely stunning Koenigsegg Regara on display at the 2021 Essen Motor Show, I love that interior.

BMW M4 drift car build, note the exhaust coming out where the rear window used to be!

Who needs a windshield right? Very special looking Mercedes shown here

Classic cars? You’ve asked for it, check out this amazing looking beauty

I had an absolute blast visiting the Essen Motor Show, I did miss a few of the regulars, and for once I walked away without buying one or more scale models for my collection, it’s only a two-hour drive for me, and this show is usually worth it, this year might have suffered a bit from the global pandemic that just doesn’t seem to go away any time soon, so I was already happy they didn’t cancel the show this year, let’s hope the 2022 edition will be back in full force next year.

November 26, 2021 / Comments Off

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Collecting Cars Offering Three Interesting Supercars: A Ferrari, A Corvette, And A Porsche Cayman

More than a hundred exciting and gorgeous examples are offered on Collecting Cars on a daily basis, but this time we’re concentrating on three very interesting examples: a 2010 Ferrari 599 GTB, a 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray, and a 2016 Porsche (981) Cayman GT4.

2010 Ferrari 599 GTB

The first notable thing about this example is its really low mileage of only 10,800 miles. The second thing is that the example is equipped with the Handling Grand Turismo Evoluzione (HGTE) handling package.

This 2010 Ferrari 599 GTB was given the Rosso Corsa finish with the paintwork protected by paint protection film (PPF). The exterior is matched with tan leather and Alcantara interior. The steering wheel and column, instrument binnacle, headlining and sun visors, dashboard top, and rear shelf surrounds are wrapped in contrasting Rosso leather with Alcantara highlights.

It is equipped with 20-inch five-spoke split-rim alloy wheels with the optional carbon ceramic brake discs with red calipers.

Powering this beauty is the ‘Tipo 140C’ 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine that can produce 612bhp matched with a six-speed ‘F1 SuperFast’ automated manual transmission with paddle shift.

The example was delivered new to Kuwait and it has since moved into its current location in Newbury, Berkshire, United Kingdom.

It was last serviced by specialist Sports Italia Ltd in October 2021.

As of writing the current bid for the 2010 Ferrari 599 GTB is £40,250 with the auction closing in 5 days.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray

This Corvette Stingray is practically new and had just come out of its first service which was done last November 4, 2021.

The example was given a bold Torch Red finish matched with a two-tone black and Adrenaline Red leather interior. Some features of the example include an eight-inch infotainment screen with the Infotainment 3 Plus system, 4G hotspot, Bluetooth connectivity, with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. It was also given heated and ventilated electrically adjustable seats, heated rear screen, cruise control, 14-speaker Bose sound system, and air conditioning.

Under the hood are the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter LT2 V8 engine that can produce 496 hp, matched to a Tremec eight-speed dual clutch automatic transmission with paddle shift. The example was also equipped with an optional dual-mode performance exhaust system.

This Corvette C8 Stingray has been recalled for updates and preventive repairs.

With only 3,616 on the odometer, this example is practically new.

As of writing, the Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray has a bid of $200 with the auction ending in six days.

2016 Porsche (981) Cayman GT4

This Cayman GT4 was given Carrara White Metallic finish and has a full paint protection film (PPF) around the front end. The interior is clad in black leather and Alcantara, while the seat belts and fabric door pulls are finished in yellow.

Featured equipped in the car include Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), fire extinguisher, the Smoking Package, passenger-side storage net, and Sport Chrono Package.

The exampled is powered by a mid-mounted 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine matched with a six-speed manual transmission. It has graphite 20-inch GT4 wheels, black rear wing supports, and red brake calipers.

Its most recent service was done by Milton Volkswagen where they replaced the tires and front spoiler and did some paintwork correction.

The odometer shows a mileage of 33,694 km. The sale with come with the original owner’s manuals and spare key.

As of writing there is still no bid on the 2016 Porsche (981) Cayman GT4 with the auction ending in 7 days.

November 26, 2021 / Comments Off

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ABT RS6-S and RSQ8-S: New Packages with up to 690hp

ABT has revealed new Aero packages with carbon fibre parts for the RS6 and RSQ8 models which will be launched in mid-January 2022. The new packages carry the badging RS6-S and RSQ8-S.

Both the Avant and SUV models are powered by identical V8 engines with four litres of displacement generating a standard output power of 591 hp and 590lb-ft of torque.

The ABT Power S Performance upgrade based on the high-tech ABT Engine Control (AEC) increases the power output from standard to 690 hp and 649 lb-ft of torque.

ABT offers an extensive aerodynamics package made of visible carbon with many similarities for the models and differences as well i.e, both kits consist of a unique front lip with the respective model name in red lettering. The SUV has been fitted with side skirt add ons at the front and rear part of the vehicle whereas the Avant has side skirt add ons at the front and side blades at the rear.

Both S models have been equipped with the two-part rear spoiler and the ABT stainless steel exhaust system with four tailpipes measuring 102 mm.

The new RS6-S features anti-roll bars at the front and rear and 22 inch ABT high performance HR wheels for optimum performance. The new RSQ8-S has been fitted with similar wheels but with one size larger at 23 inches.

The interiors of the models feature upgraded seats, integrated entrance lights and customized door sills, shift knob finished in glossy carbon, start-stop switch cap and steering wheel badge. An additional package consisting of carbon fibre dashboard and seat frame covers for both models will also be available.

ABT RSQ8-S and RS6-S

November 26, 2021 / Comments Off

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Building the 300 mph Koenigsegg Jesko

I was fortunate enough the be present at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show when Christian von Koenigsegg unveiled the then brand new Jesko to the gathered press during his conference, the bright white hypercar with the massive rear wing attracted a lot of attention, and we found out it wouldn’t even be the fastest version, back in 2019 they mentioned a Jesko 300, which we now know is called the Jesko Absolut, but back to 2019, and just two days before the car had to be sent to Switzerland, it wasn’t even finished, they were still working hard on putting this beauty together, but no worries, they made it.

Top Gear actually did a video during their visit to Koenigsegg Automotive AB in Ängelholm, Skåne County, Sweden, just a few days ahead of the public unveiling of the Koenigsegg Jesko in Geneva, and it is a very interesting behind the scenes look at how these cars are usually finished just in time for such a major event, or in some case, almost, but not quite finished, and while we now know the Jesko was indeed ready to be shown to the public just a few days after this video was made, it still impressive to see what is going on inside the factory inside a former airforce hangar where 400 artisans are building these impressive Koenigsegg hypercars.

You might have noticed that there is always ghost somewhere on the Koenigsegg car to be found, and that goes back to the fact these hypercars are built inside the former hangar of Swedish oldest air force squadron, the Ghosts, we learn that the Koenigsegg Jesko had been in development for three years prior to the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, under the internal name ‘Ragnarok’, but the name Jesko was chosen for the production car in honor to Christian’s father, Jesko von Koenigsegg.

At the time the Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut wasn’t built yet, and the car shown in Geneva was the track-focused Jesko, with the massive rear wing, that can be angled as an air brake mind you, a deep front splitter, and a total of 880 kgs of downforce, which is too much to reach speeds in excess of 300 mph, but their simulations at the time, with a different aero package, would theoretically show the Jesko 300 to go even faster than 300 mph.

The problem with actually testing these kinds of speed in real life is that it takes a massive amount of preparation, not only finding a stretch of road long enough to do in two directions, but it also has to be safe, for the driver, for the car itself, and for the surrounding wildlife … imagine striking a bird that decides to fly over the road when you are approaching at 300 mph …

The Koenigsegg Jesko has a starting price of $2,800,000 before taxes, and before options, and with a hand-built car like a Koenigsegg, the sky is the limit, as they say, you can spec your very own Jesko to your liking, taking a look at the Geneva Show car you might notice those stunning carbon-fiber wheels … those are not included in that $2.8 million pricetag, they are a $65,000 option! But what’s even more interesting, the tire is two times heavier than the wheel itself.

The Koenigsegg Jesko is not a hybrid, she comes with a 5-Liter V8 engine that delivers a massive 1,600 hp on E85 fuel, coupled to the in-house developed gearbox, this is the fastest revving engine in any production car, and while these days people are asking more and more for a clear carbon fiber body, it usually takes between 600 and 800 hours to paint a Koenigsegg, they actually clear coat and sand down the carbon fiber panels three times in a row before they even add a splash of color on top.

And then you still have all the smaller carbon fiber parts and aluminum parts that need to be polished before they are fitted onto the Koenigsegg, which takes another 200 hours of skilled work, even the wiring loom is hand made at the factory, adding wires to a vertical panel with a map fixed on it, very impressive indeed.

Top Gear Magazine’s Jack Rixwill take you on a tour of the Koenigsegg factory, right at the time they are finishing up the Jesko prototype to be taken to Geneva in March 2019 … enjoy the video below:

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November 25, 2021 / Comments Off

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Novitec Ferrari Roma Revealed with 704hp

Novitec now offers an exclusive customization program for the Ferrari Roma. The tuning company has developed modified controls for the electronic engine management system to further optimize the power delivery.

Additionally, all output levels use the Novitec N-Tronic module which upgrades the electronic boost pressure control and introduces specially calibrated mapping for injection and ignition. These measures enhance the power delivery as well optimizes the throttle response and the in-gear acceleration.

Ferrari Roma is powered by a 3.9 litre twin-turbo V8 engine. In performance level 2, the output power is increased by 84 hp and 122 Nm of torque over the stock configuration. As a result, the maximum output power is 704 hp at 7400 rpm and 882 Nm of torque at a low 3750 rpm. The acceleration from 0-100km/h is achieved in 3.2 seconds, 0-200km/h in 8.9 seconds and the top speed is 325 km/h.

The front spoiler has been attached to the bumper to enhance the appearance of the front part and its shape optimizes the directional stability of the vehicle when at high speeds. The rocker panel on the other hand optimizes the airflow between the front and rear wheel arches and gives the Ferrari a lower and sleeker visual stance.

Novitec enhanced the vehicle with a lip spoiler on the trunk lid in order to reduce rear axle lift at high speeds as well as achieve an optimal aerodynamic balance. Further upgrades include diffuser insert, vertical carbon trim, carbon cover for the retractable rear wing and carbon surrounds for the taillights.

The vehicle pictured has been fitted with a set of Novitec NF10 alloy wheels finished in silver with a brushed surface. The wheels are in size 9Jx21 on the front axle and 12Jx 22 on the rear wheels mounted on tires measuring 255/30 ZR21 on the front axle and 315/25 ZR 22.

Additionally, the wheels are available in three different designs in 72 different colors and three different surface finishes.

The Novitec sport springs are tailored specifically for the high-performance tires and lower the ride height of the vehicle by 35 millimetres. The hydraulic Novitec front lift system enables the body to be raised at the front axle by 40 mm at a touch of a button, this helps the driver navigate easily in the parking garage ramps or at speed bumps.

Novitec Ferrari Roma

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Novitec also offers leather and Alcantara interiors in various colors and designs.

November 25, 2021 / Comments Off

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Best New Luxury GTs (All Prices)

Ah, yes. The grand touring car. It was once stereotypically front-engined, two-door and rear-wheel drive. The British establishment (Aston Martin, Bentley, Jaguar, Rolls-Royce) have turned the art of making one into a science, while other automakers have started to submit their own thesis on what a GT could and should ought to be. This has blurred the lines between what is and what isn’t a grand tourer these days.

Automakers such as McLaren (who are ironically, also British) have made very clear indications of what their interpretation is; by no means did they, or were they, ever going to follow suit with the long-standing blueprint of mounting an engine at the front of one of their cars. In fact, powerplant placement, number of doors, and to some degree, drivetrain, are no longer standardized prerequisites in the making of a proper modern GT car.

Ultimately, the lines have to be drawn somewhere, and without a doubt, all of the automobiles on this list continue to showcase the most quintessential characteristics of a grand touring heavyweight—the most important of those, being that the driver is able to enjoy the highest tier of automotive performance in a sensible and uncompromising package. This means refinement, luxury and utilitarianism are the key ingredients in the mix, but not at the cost of thrilling driver engagement and an unmatched fun factor.

Here are 25 of the Best New Luxury GTs you can purchase brand new today.

Porsche 911 GT3 Touring (992)

Base MSRP: $160,100 USD

Porsche unveiled its new 992-generation Porsche 911 GT3 via digital livestream on YouTube. First deliveries are just starting to trickle in now, making it likely to be designated as a 2022 model.

Semantics aside, this new GT3 becomes the seventh iteration of one of Porsche’s most established and beloved automobiles. More importantly, it continues to embody the spirit of previous GT3 models by amalgamating all that is awesome about the 911, and the Porsche brand, in a single road car.

Soon after the unveiling, the GT3 Touring model—essentially a gentleman’s version of the otherwise track-focused road car—was released.

The automaker has continued the use of the naturally-aspirated 4.0L 9A1 flat-6 powerplant in the 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 Touring. The only key differences between the engine used in the race car and the one used in the 992 GT3 are the exhaust system and ECU.

Otherwise, the two engines share virtually all the same components, such as individual throttle bodies. As such, the new GT3s needed no “sound engineering” and inherently sound amazing.

With an astronomical 9,000 rpm redline, both cars produce 502 hp @ 8,400 rpm and 346 lb-ft of torque @ 6,250 rpm. The GT3 and GT3 Touring continue to use the 7-speed PDK transmission, instead of a version of the 8-speed used in the rest of the 992 line-up.

Bentley Continental GT V8

Base MSRP: $206,600 USD (coupe), $227,200 USD (convertible)

With a lively V8 engine delivering irresistibly dynamic performance, accompanied by the sound of its uniquely emotive burble, the new Bentley Continental GT V8 offers a truly engaging driving experience—a grand tourer that makes every journey breathtaking.

The Continental GT V8 is exceptionally responsive, delivering powerful yet smooth acceleration, accompanied by the irresistible sound of a Bentley V8 engine. The Bentley Continental GT V8 Convertible offers all of the above, plus an exhilarating open-air grand-touring experience.

I love that Bentley is now offering a “base” Continental GT with a V8 engine. It makes sense and it looks to be really good business on their part. For starters, this variant offers a more engaging and spirited driving experience for those owners who prefer to be the ones driving themselves around instead of relying on their chauffeurs.

On the business side of things, offering the V8 variant lowers the price of entry just a tad, too. More Continentals for all!

McLaren GT

Base MSRP: $210,000 USD

So there’s no hint of an SUV from McLaren, or even anything with four doors or room for a family.” If we can’t make the world’s best SUV, why the hell would we?” stated GT Global Product Manager Tom Taylor, who reiterated McLaren’s no nonsense approach to any car they produce (and one which I personally find very charismatic).

There is instead, the new McLaren GT, which debuted for the 2020 model year and has continued into 2021 and beyond. The GT—which stands for ‘Grand Tourer’—is the British automaker’s first attempt at something other than the raw, unadulterated performance conduits they’ve been known for producing in the past.

Unconventional for a McLaren and for a mid-engined car respectively are its particularly luxurious interior and over 20 cu. ft. of storage space. In spite of its supposed layout handicap, the McLaren GT is not outdone by the likes of Aston Martin with regards to the latter, with plenty of room for bags, skis and a week’s worth of luggage.

The new infotainment system also helps to facilitate a comfortable cross-country cruising experience. Traditional grand touring cars are not shy about the shortcomings they are willing to accept in exchange for a heightened level of luxury and refinement; i.e. they are often heavier and bulkier, with typically softer driving dynamics. McLaren looks to shatter such preconceptions with the new GT.

Aston Martin DB11 AMR

Base MSRP: $241,000 USD

The Aston Martin DB11 AMR is the new flagship car for the DB11 range. It comes standard with the model’s top engine option—a 5.2L twin-turbocharged V12—boasting greater power, increased performance, enhanced driving dynamics and a more characterful exhaust note. In addition, the AMR features a specially-tuned powertrain and chassis, along with a number of exclusive styling queues and options.

The DB11 AMR may boast an intimidating 630 hp, but its overall demeanor remains that of a refined luxury GT car rather than a raw performance machine. That, ladies and gentlemen, is peak Aston Martin execution, and we wouldn’t want it any other way.

Honestly, Aston Martin could probably get away with having the AMR as its sole DB11 model. It really is that good, and some believe it should’ve been what the DB11 was from the get-go.

Ferrari Roma

Base MSRP: $222,620 USD

Ferrari’s latest true grand touring sports car offers something really unique and refreshing. Its design is simple, almost minimalist as far as the artistry is concerned. Yet, objectively, it is a very beautiful car.

The inner workings of the Roma are anything but uncomplicated. It features one of the most high-tech cabins of any Ferrari, or car in its class. Its 3.9L engine is as athletic as it is utilitarian, making for a grand tourer that really molds to the character of its owner – or perhaps, it’s the other way around?

Granted it is a Ferrari, but those who want something flashy should look elsewhere within the line-up; or, depending on your cup of tea, outside the brand as a whole. But with the “gentleman’s sports car” now being in vogue, it’s this very characteristic that makes the Roma one of the most desirable cars of its kind. In a low-key sorta way.

Lexus LC 500

Base MSRP: $93,050 USD (coupe), $101,100 USD (convertible)

The range-topping luxury coupe continues to use the same naturally-aspirated V8 power plant seen in the rest of the brand’s performance lineup. This would be the omnipotent 5.0L unit, which produces 471 hp @ 7,100 rpm and 398 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm.

The unit is good for 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 168 mph. Other notable features include the adjustable suspension which serves to provide a remarkable fusion of performance and comfort.

Lexus later revealed the LC500 Convertible at the 2020 LA Auto Show. It shares all of the same mechanical underpinnings with the coupe, with its signature convertible roof able to open and close in about 15 seconds and be operated at speeds up to 31 mph. That’s pretty impressive.

Because of the open-top, the car required some additional structural components for rigidity. Lexus used magnesium and aluminum to keep the car’s overall weight from ballooning too much.

Rolls-Royce Wraith

Base MSRP: $343,350 USD

Virtually unchanged for 2021, the current iteration of the Rolls-Royce Wraith shares the same BMW F01 platform as the outgoing Ghost, and will continue to do so for at least the meantime.

The Wraith is the sportier version of the two, having been purposed in a coupe guise and shorter wheelbase. A power bump, some weight loss, and a specially tuned suspension further its call for an improved performance focus.

The Wraith still also retains the same powerplant, and this can only be a good thing. After all, 624 hp and 605 lb-ft of torque from the mighty 6.6L twin-turbocharged V12 are stats worthy of just about any supercar out there today. Stick it into one of the most posh cars ever produced, and you have something even more unique and special than that.

Lotus Evora GT

Base MSRP: $96,950 USD

The Lotus Evora GT is produced specifically for the North American market. For under $100k ($96,950 to be exact), you can get your hands on the most powerful street-legal Lotus available right now.

Lotus also updated the exterior with a new front lip spoiler, wheel arch louvers, ducts behind the wheels, and a rear diffuser. Inside, there’s a more generous serving of Alcantara and carbon fiber materials, which really makes the GT look and feel nicer than ever before.

It also comes equipped with a 3.5L supercharged V6 that puts out 416 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, although a 6-speed automatic is also available (only a masochist would buy the automatic for this car).

This powertrain makes for a 0-60 mph time of just 3.8 seconds. The car’s top speed? 188 mph. In the suspension department, Eibach springs paired with Bilstein dampers are standard.

The car also gets 19″ wheels up front and 20″ wheels in the rear, which are wrapped in grippy Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.

Audi e-tron GT

Base MSRP: $102,400 USD, $142,400 USD (RS e-tron GT)

The 2022 Audi e-tron GT is the four-ringed company’s first entrant into the high-performance EV weight class. It looks to shake up a playing field, which includes the likes of the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan, the latter of which shares many of the same underpinnings.

This isn’t the marque’s first EV model, as it joins up with a roster currently occupied by Audi’s e-tron SUVs. However, the e-tron GT does have the distinction of becoming the first fully-electric car to don the company’s legendary RS badge via the highest and most expensive trim level currently on offer.

The base model e-tron GT predictably comes with less of the go-faster, stop-harder and look-sexier ingredients that are typically reserved for an RS model, but it does share the same 93.4 kWh battery with its more glamorous stablemate.

McLaren Speedtail

Base MSRP: $2,250,000 USD

Meet the new Speedtail—an aptly-named addition to McLaren’s Ultimate Series of automobiles. This limited-edition car—of which only 106 examples will be built—represents McLaren’s unyielding pursuit of maximum top-speed.

Whereas other McLarens blend handling, acceleration and driving dynamics in a harmonious package, the Speedtail has a more singular focus. That focus is speed; ludicrous amounts of it.

McLaren has labeled the Speedtail a Hyper GT, which seems fitting given the excess of the car and its abilities. More than that, the Speedtail is a car that reminds us that the automotive world serves to inspire and excite us as much as it does to move us from one place to the next.

In the case of the Speedtail, though, it moves us unlike anything else out there. This 1,055 hp car will take you to 250 mph and then to the Opera on the same set of tires (to paraphrase McLaren’s spokesperson with a particularly interesting name: Wayne Bruce).

The McLaren Speedtail hybrid ‘hyper-GT’ produces all that power through the combination of an M840T and parallel system eMotor. This setup—in addition to applying the most brilliant drag-reduction principles in existence today—has allowed the Speedtail to become the fastest production McLaren ever made.

Aston Vantage AMR

Base MSRP: $183,081 USD

The Vantage AMR is a new breed of predator, 95 kg lighter in weight than the base model, and boasting a seven-speed rev-matching manual transmission. This is a beast designed to deliver pure, engaging, manual performance—Aston Martin’s interpretation of a “true driver’s car”.

The Vantage AMR also gets a sport-tuned limited-slip differential, carbon-ceramic brakes standard, and the company’s most advanced adaptive damping system with Sport, Sport+, and Track driving modes.

The sport exhaust and sport seats, which are optional on the regular car, also come standard on the AMR. Its 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 produces 503 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 461 lb-ft of torque @ 2,000 rpm—this allows the Vantage AMR to sprint from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 200 mph.

Jaguar F-Type R

Base MSRP: $103,200 USD

The F-Type R has seen its engine output increased for the 2021 year, gaining 25 hp and 14 lb-ft of torque over the previous year’s entry. The engine is exclusively mated to an all-wheel drive system.

The general platform remains unchanged, with updates to the exterior and interior keeping the model feeling fresh and in line with the rest of its lineup. New LED headlights and taillights, a revised front and rear bumper, and a new infotainment system are amongst the aforementioned updates.

Available in both coupe and convertible form, Jaguar’s F-Type R sports car is now the highest F-Type trim in the roster and is equipped with an arsenal that can square off against the likes of the Porsche 911 and comparable Mercedes AMG and BMW M models.

With sharp handling and blistering acceleration—thanks in large part to its advanced all-wheel-drive system—the F-Type R makes for a padded spec sheet and costs less than most of its competition.

Porsche 911 Turbo / Turbo S (992)

Base MSRP: $170,800 USD (Turbo), $203,500 USD (Turbo S)

Around a year ago, Porsche revealed and released the 2021 model year Type-992 911 Turbo S, and, as is apparent all over the internet, it’s been a bit of a hit. Soon after, riding that wave of success, the new Porsche Type 992 911 Turbo (non-S) was revealed.

While the GT-line of 911 cars tend to generate the most fanfare, the Turbo cars continue to have a large and loyal fanbase, and there seems to be a universal understanding that the 911 Turbo S retains its status as the automaker’s flagship model. It is also by far, Porsche’s greatest testament to the concept of grand touring automobiles.

It would be a disservice to call the Turbo a “lesser” car than the Turbo S, though it undoubtedly does have less in most departments—less power at 573 hp, and less features compared to the jam-packed Turbo S. But most importantly, it also requires less money to put one in your garage, with a price of $170,800 compared to $203,500 for the Turbo S.

This also is not to say that the new Turbo isn’t anything short of a monster. It will still go from 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds, and corner like it’s on rails with the help of Porsche Torque Management (PTM) and all-wheel-drive, on its way to a top speed of 198 mph.

Porsche themselves, in their press release, points out another important fact about the new Turbo: It matches, or exceeds, the packaging, performance, and technology of the Type 991 911 Turbo S.

Ferrari 812 Competizione

Base MSRP: $598,000 USD, $600,000 USD (Aperta)

First, the name: it’s officially known as the Ferrari 812 Competizione. But, it can also be called the Ferrari 812 Competizione A(perta). That’s because Ferrari surprised us by unveiling not one, but two versions of this hardcore 812 Superfast variant right from the get go.

The latter—meant to replace the 812 GTS—is a Targa counterpart, which features a removable carbon fiber roof panel that can be neatly stowed away in a special made-to-measure storage compartment.

Besides the obvious aesthetic differences born from having an open-top configuration, the two cars are identical mechanically. Both the Competizione and Competizione A will be powered by the same 6.5L naturally-aspirated V12 engine.

In addition to producing 819 hp and possessing a symphonic 9,500 rpm of vocal range, we now also know that it also churns out 512 lb-ft of torque. Those are the peak figures of course, which are attainable at both 9,250 rpm and 7,000 rpm respectively.

Nissan GT-R

Base MSRP: $115,335 USD

The venerable Nissan GT-R is still going strong, on its now decade-old R35 platform. While this is a testament to how advanced the platform was when it first arrived on the seen, its longevity is also the bud of many jokes amongst automotive enthusiasts, who collectively feel that the car has exceeded its best-before date by at least a few years. Nevertheless, the R35 has been given incremental, yet important updates every model year.

While it has managed to stay relevant even though it remains in theory, the same car since 2009, recent commotions are suggesting that the 2021/2022 model year should be when the platform gets its long awaited swan song.

With its regular improvements have come an equally consistent increase in the sticker price, and the Nissan GT-R is no longer the $80,000 USD bargain it used to be in a supercar segment that has gotten a lot more contested as well. So while the GT-R no longer boasts the same value-for-performance when it debuted all that time ago as an exotic supercar destroyer, it is still by all accounts a top performer amongst the very best that’s out there today.

Aston Martin DBS Superleggera

Base MSRP: $304,995 USD, $334,700 USD (Volante)

Unquestionably, the DBS Superleggera sits at the pinnacle of the Aston Martin production grand touring range. Aggressive, yet beautiful. Super lightweight, yet powerfully strong. A commanding presence, yet lavishly finished.

Equipped with the most powerful (non-hybrid) engine in the Aston Martin lineup, the DBS Superleggera’s 5.2L twin-turbocharged V12 outputs 715 hp @ 6,500 rpm; good for 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 211 mph.

The DBS Superleggera is also available in a fixed-roof-coupe or drop-top Volante configuration—offering buyers more choices when it comes to experiencing the highest echelons of British GT road cars.

The optional Studio Collection Pack ($18,700) offers that extra bit of grand touring perfection, with a Bang & Olufsen BeoSound Infotainment System, powered seat bolster adjustment, and other uber-luxury amenities forming part of the package.

Porsche Taycan (All Models)

Base MSRP: Starting at $79,900 USD (Sedan) / Starting at $90,900 USD (Cross Turismo)

Porsche’s first EV was the statement car of 2020, proving that a future with electrification can still embody the soul of a true sports car in the Taycan Turbo and Taycan Turbo S. Shortly after their release, Porsche added a slightly detuned version of the Taycan in a trim level known as the Taycan 4S.

The company has since expanded the Taycan sports sedan lineup with even more versions, including a rear-wheel drive base model, with a future GTS version rumored to be in the works. Porsche has stated that they will be unveiling new Taycan trims at the upcoming 2021 LA Auto Show.

With the introduction of the new Cross Turismo Porsche Taycan models in 2021, we’ve now entered the second act of the company’s electrification strategy. The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo carries over the EV-platform and performance from its sedan counterpart, then amalgamates them with the utilitarianism of a sporty crossover/estate.

What this means is that you can expect the same 800-volt battery architecture powering the car, with 93.4 kWh as the standard fare on all models (certain sedan trims could be had with a smaller 79.2 kWh pack). The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is currently available in four distinct trim levels—4, 4S, Turbo, and Turbo S—with relative performance figures and standard features across the range, mostly in parallel with that of the sedans.

Mercedes-AMG GT Models

Base MSRP: $118,600 USD (GT), $153,500 USD (GT C), $162,900 USD (GT R), $199,650 USD (GT R Pro)

The 577 hp AMG GT R is Mercedes-Benz’ flagship supercar, which is the amalgamation of half a century of motorsports success, into a single Nürburgring lap. Lightened, sharpened and strengthened, its racing DNA is evident in every fiber of its body, chassis and soul. For those looking for that extra bit of the apex-clipping good stuff, the limited edition ‘GT R Pro’ is an even more track-focused variant of the GT R.

The new GT R Pro is more than just a fancy (yet functional) body kit and is also the beneficiary of upgrades that aren’t as easily seen; such as redesigned mechanically adjustable coil overs, carbon ceramic brakes, a carbon fiber torsion bar, and dynamic engine and transmission mounts. The Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro looks to be calling out the likes of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, Ferrari 488 GTB and McLaren 720S, and has definitely brought the right arsenal to this battle of giants.

While we believe that the GT R models serve well as grand tourers, we wouldn’t argue that the lower trims (GT and GT C) are better options as an everyday cruiser. Afterall, opting for either of those models also unlocks the choice of having them in Roadster (convertible) configurations.

Audi RS 7

Base MSRP: $118,500 USD

The Audi RS 7 Sportback is what you get when you take the RS 6 Avant’s engine, then place it in a sleeker Audi Sportback frame. The resulting Audi RS 7 Sportback is an aggressive and beautiful car, with performance credentials to back up its bold appearance.

This strikingly athletic, yet elegant, four-door sports car is the perfect blend of practicality and performance. At the heart of the car is a twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 engine with a mild-hybrid system, which puts out a whopping 591 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque.

The results are impressive, too—the car can sprint from 0-62 mph in just 3.6 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 155 mph. If you’re looking for an ideal luxury-performance sports sedan and aren’t quite ready to make the leap over to an EV, this would be the one to get.

Rolls-Royce Dawn

Base MSRP: $368,850 USD

The Rolls-Royce Dawn is the soft-top version of the Wraith, but at the same time it’s not. In fact, 80 percent of the Wraith’s body panels are unique, meaning that the Dawn is much more than just the coupe version with its roof sheared off.

Unchanged for 2021, the Dawn also continues to share the same powerplant with the Wraith, though the 6.6L twin-turbocharged V12 in the convertible produces 563 hp, which is about 60 hp less than that of its hardtop stablemate.

Nevertheless, the drop-top factor you get from the Dawn is still its most endearing feature, allowing you to partake in the Rolls-Royce wind-through-your-hair experience like no other car in the lineup can deliver.

Porsche Cayman / Boxster GTS 4.0

Base MSRP: $88,150 USD (Cayman) / $90,250 USD (Boxster)

In the new 718 Boxster and Cayman GTS, Porsche has replaced the 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder with a 4.0L naturally-aspirated flat-six engine, pulled from the GT4 and Spyder (which were released earlier). The 4-pot turbo engine is still available in every trim level up to the Cayman S/Boxster S, but the new GTS gets the 6-cylinder powerplant, as it should. Granted, it is a detuned version of those found in the GT4 and Spyder, making a little less power as it pumps out 394 hp and 309 lb-ft of torque.

There’s more good news, too; this car can only be had with a 6-speed manual transmission. It also comes standard with Porsche’s symphonic sport exhaust system—a perfect compliment to its high-revving heartbeat.

Additional upgrades include a ride height that’s 0.8″ lower than the standard car, 20″ wheels finished in black, 13.8″ brake rotors up front and 13″ brake rotors in the rear, and 6-piston calipers. In addition to the performance upgrades, the GTS gets some blacked-out trim, more Alcantara on the inside, plenty of carbon fiber, and two different interior packages: Carmine Red or Chalk.

For those who desire a true driver’s car—but are less interested in the hardcore-ness of the GT4 and Spyder—the GTS looks to be a really proper choice. Kudos to Porsche for acting on this opportunity to broaden their potential Cayman/Boxster customer base, while pleasing the company’s most hardcore fans, all at the same time.

BMW M8 Gran Coupe

Base MSRP: $131,995 (M8), $144,995 (M8 Competition)

For the 2021 model year, BMW announced that the Coupe and Convertible configurations of the M8 will no longer be available for the North American markets, with the Gran Coupe remaining as the sole body-style option. Thankfully, the Gran Coupe retains the 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 engine borrowed from the M5, which makes 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This allows the rather hefty grand tourer to rocket from 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds and hit a top speed of 190 mph, which is mighty impressive for something that tips the scales at almost 2,000 kg.

The M8 also gives drivers the ability to switch between all-wheel drive and 100% rear-wheel drive, making the car both thrilling and well-suited for any situation thrown its way. If all of that simply isn’t enough, the M8 Competition should certainly fit the bill. Power is bumped up to 617 hp, while tweaks to the chassis, suspension and brakes make for a more responsive and agile car.

BMW has also made great efforts to keep weight down by utilizing carbon fiber, so despite having 4 doors, the Gran Coupe platforms shouldn’t weigh much more than the outgoing Coupe models.

Tesla Model S Plaid+

Base MSRP: $131,100 USD

Tesla recently announced that they’ve added a new trim for their Model S and Model X. The base “Long Range” models will still use dual-motors, while the new high-performance models will be replaced with “Plaid”. While this is mostly down to marketing and rebranding, the Model S will have also have a Plaid+ option later this year.

For performance junkies, the Plaid+ option is the most significant news, as this package incorporates Tesla’s latest battery technology. The Plaid+, with its brand new architecture, is said to be capable of 0-60 mph in under 2 seconds and a range of up to 520 miles on a single charge.

Needless to say, figures like those will surely lead to an upheaval of the current status quo in EV-land and will have competitors scrambling to keep up. Word is, these claims are far from anecdotal, as an 1,100 hp prototype version of the Tesla Model S Plaid+ has already beat the Mclaren P1’s lap time at the legendary Laguna Seca raceway in California, USA. Tesla is already taking orders on its website, where it starts at a price of $131,100.

Mercedes-AMG S 63

Base MSRP: $171,400 USD

The purebred performance of AMG meets the passion and precision of the mighty S-Class lineup in the 603 hp AMG S 63. Peak torque of 664 lb-ft is made as low as 2,750 rpm, helping the S 63 from 0-60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. Each 4.0L biturbo V8 engine is crafted by a single pair of masterful hands, while AMG Performance 4MATIC+ ensures that both of the S 63 platforms are swift and surefooted.

As far as total packages go, the S 63 is up there with the very best of them. There appears to be no evidence of compromise, in any area of the car, with the S 63 offering incredible acceleration, agile handling, refined driving dynamics and a best-in-class interior and cabin which borderlines on the extravagant.

The best part is that you also have your pick between coupe or cabriolet configurations, making for an ultimate luxury grand tourer which suits just about anyone’s palate.

Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid

Base MSRP: $189,800 USD (Base), $193,800 USD (Sport Turismo), $200,200 USD (Executive)

Porsche has provided no shortage of options within any of its model line-ups, with the relatively recent addition of E-Hybrid models serving up even more choices for those seeking a more eco-friendly experience from the brand.

While the Taycan is the only model fully-committed to electrification, the E-Hybrids are an impressive alternative for those who aren’t quite ready to make the big step over to the other side. Currently, E-Hybrid models can be found within the Panamera and Cayenne model line-ups, and are destined to be in the mix with other models such as the Cayman, 911 and Macan in the not so distant future.

The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid is at the top of the food chain when it comes to the range, and is the only model (notwithstanding the Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid) to feature a hybridized version of Porsche’s 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8. On its own, the petrol engine produces 563 hp and 567 lb-ft of torque, with the E-Hybrid electric motor adding up to 134 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Sport Turismo estate-style body would definitely be our pick, as it also provides a greater sense of both utilitarianism and style to boot.

November 24, 2021 / Comments Off

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Sightseeing Coastal California in a Bugatti

Owning a Bugatti is an achievement on its own, having one or more of these 16-cylinder hypercars in your garage is an amazing feeling, but Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. is all about the experience of owning such an automotive masterpiece, so they tend to organize drives all over the world to bring together owners to showcase the benefits of being a Bugatti customer.

The 2021 US Grand Tour hosted by Bugatti of the Americas took 10 ‘Made in Molsheim’ beauties on a 600-mile drive along Coastal California recently, in a multi-million dollar convoy consisting of five Veyrons, a Veyron Vitesse, two Chirons, a Chiron Sport, and a Chiron Pur Sport, with an inaugural dinner at the famous Wolfgang Puck in Beverly Hills, the cars would head to the Santa Barbara wine country in the morning only to continue north to Big Sur.

“We look forward to this event every year,” said Cedric Davy, Chief Operating Officer of Bugatti of the Americas. “The camaraderie developed during these trips is incredible. These rallies are also a fantastic way to demonstrate the grand touring spirit, craftsmanship, and reliability of our vehicles, which was evident by the range of cars that attended – one of which was 15 years old. By the end of the event, customers had made new friends and left wanting more, We look forward to planning another Bugatti Grand Tour next year.”

Words just can’t do justice to these amazing cars, true hypercars that draw attention at every corner, so I’ll let these photos do the talking, for now, enjoy these magnificent looking cars that will remain a dream for most of us, but a reality for the fortunate owner …

November 23, 2021 / Comments Off

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The 20th anniversary of the Aston Martin Vanquish

When I see a first-generation Aston Martin Vanquish I can’t help but think about James Bond, more specifically the 20th movie in the series, Die Another Day, and while I also remember the red Lamborghini Diablo that got tossed out of an airplane, the hero car in this installment was undoubtedly the Tungsten Silver over a charcoal leather interior Aston Martin Vanquish none other than Pierce Brosnan got to drive, thanks to some ‘invisibility’ add-on by Q-branch, they called her the ‘Vanish’ in the movie.

While the Bond movie was released in 2002, the Aston Martin Vanquish was unveiled at the 2001 Geneva Motor Show, two decades ago this year, and the Vanquish gained both popularity and notoriety in the car collecting world, at the time this model was hand-built in Newport Pagnell she was the most advanced Aston Martin yet, and the drive-by-wire throttle with an F1-inspired paddle shifter made their debut on this model, which is regarded as a collector’s item today.

Safe to say the Aston Martin Vanquish was the top-of-the-line in 2001, the best of the best with an amazing, muscular design, Paul Spires, President of Aston Martin Works states: “The original V12 Vanquish represented an important and timely development for our marque. It was, and is, a great super GT with all the character, style, and power that is rightly expected of an Aston Martin sports car. 20 years on from that debut, the V12 Vanquish remains a proud part of the marque’s heritage which we celebrate here at Newport Pagnell. It is an exceptional piece of our history, and a car that we can rightly look back on with considerable pride.”

Ian Callum actually started working on the Vanquish in the mid-nineties already, at that time called the ‘Project Vantage’, the next-generation supercar from Aston Martin with a 6-Liter V12 engine making 460 bhp using an F1 gearbox with paddles, built on a lightweight aluminum tub wearing a composite body … all very innovative for Aston Martin at that time, the first concept of Project Vantage was shown at the 1998 Detroit Motor Show.

One of the requirements for the new Vanquish was the design of the front grille, it had to be immediately recognizable as an Aston Martin, and Ian Callum succeeded in this perfectly, integrating this hallmark of the brand’s design language, but he added large auxiliary driving lamps on either side, while the fenders and hood boast a series of finely detailed compound curves sweeping back to the steeply raked windscreen only to continue into a low roofline that ends in a short rear section with integrated rear wing, the entire body of the Aston Martin Vanquish is made from aluminum panels.

All body panels, including the roof, hood, wings, and doors were made of Super Plastic Formed pressed aluminum, after which these were individually tailored onto the central structure … by hand, at the Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire factory, each single Vanquish took eight weeks to build from start to finish, and while Aston Martin set out to make 300 units per year, due to high demand, they ended up building about 500 Vanquish every year, between 2001 and 2007 a total of 2,589 units were sold, which includes about 10 pre-production prototype and 1,086 units of the improved Vanquish S unveiled in 2004.

Oddly enough, you could order the Aston Martin Vanquish as a 2-seater, or as a 2+2 version, whichever version you opted for, the car would come with an automated manual gearbox, yes you are reading that correctly, the Vanquish comes with a six-speed manual gearbox, but changing gears is done with paddles fitted to the steering column, with 460 bhp and 556 Nm of torque, this 48-valve V12 put some serious strain on the gearbox, and for those that prefer a real manual shifter with a clutch pedal, Aston Martin has recently been offering a conversion package that can be obtained from the in-house heritage center or the new Aston Martin Works, to date it seems about 130 Aston Martin Vanquish have been officially converted to a fully manual transmission.

This was a heavy car, and with that much power you needed some really good tires to cope with all the force this Aston Martin could inflict on the rubber, so Yokohama was asked to develop a specific tire for the Vanquish, 255/40 ZR 19 for the front and 285/40 ZR 19 for the rear were fitted with a bespoke AML badge from Yokohama, rims were 9 inch for the front with a 10 inch width for the wider rear tires, and not only did tire pressure get measured in the Vanquish, there were even temperature sensors on the wheels.

In 2004 Aston Martin launched the Vanquish S, the fastest production model ever, the S could go over 200 mph (321 km/h) by increasing the power output from the 6-Liter V12 to 520 hp, recognizable by the modified front grille, an aerodynamic front splitter, and a modified rear spoiler, to make sure the ride was still comfortable enough, but sporty at the same time, Aston Martin fitted stiffer springs and revised the steering geometry, six-piston brakes became larger to ensure this latest Aston Martin could stop in a hurry when needed.

In early 2007 Aston Martin announced there would be no more new cars built at the Newport Pagnell factory, as a celebration of this end of an era they created the limited edition V12 Vanquish S Ultimate, only 40 were made, the last 40 cars built at Newport Pagnell, and all of them were finished in ‘Ultimate Black’, a bespoke color for this model, with a semi-aniline leather interior, coarse stitching, a leather headliner and black chrome interior finishes.

Each of these 40 Ultimate editions received a special sill plaque, but next to these European Ultimate models in black, Aston Martin also built a very small number of white cars for customers in the Middle East, today these are considered to be the ultimate collector’s item and will demand a premium over the earlier cars.

In 2007 the Aston Martin Vanquish was succeeded by the stunning DBS V12, a second-generation Aston Martin Vanquish would be unveiled in 2012, this time both as a coupe and as a convertible, with even more power, but we still love the original V12 Vanquish from 2001, heck, it was a Bond car, how can you beat that?

November 22, 2021 / Comments Off

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10 of the Wildest One-Offs from Ferrari’s Special Projects Division

The concept of creating bespoke Ferrari cars dates back to the carmaker’s early years. Clients would liaise with Ferrari about a chassis and the engine and then reach out to an Italian styling house to come up with the bodywork.

It was to revive the spirit of these coach-built cars that the Ferrari Special Projects division was established in the late 2000s. This programme represented the pinnacle of Ferrari’s in-house personalization service, allowing only a few select customers the opportunity to realize their vision of a Ferrari supercar.

Via Motor Authority.

The initial idea was to let clients, in partnerships with top Italian design houses, create one-off redesigns of Ferrari sports cars with the full support and blessing of Ferrari engineers. However, this soon morphed into the creation of entirely new vehicle designs, prompted in part by the opening of Ferrari’s in-house Design Centre in 2010.

Ferrari Special Project cars are the height of exclusivity for the Prancing Horse brand—they simply reek of class, and, of course, lots of money. Fortunately, there is no shortage of wealthy clients who will jump at the opportunity to own a one-off Ferrari. Here are 10 of the most extreme creations of the Ferrari Special Projects division.

Wild One-Off #10: Ferrari SP1

Via Teamspeed.

The SP1, not to be mistaken for the Monza SP1, kickstarted the Ferrari Special Projects program back in 2008. The SP1, short for Special Project number 1, was made for Japanese businessman and collector Junichiro Hiramatsu. He was also, at one time, the president of the Ferrari Club of Japan.

The SP1 was based on the Ferrari F430 and styled by Leonardo Fioravanti, a legendary former Pininfarina designer responsible for Ferrari cars like the Dino 246 GT, 365 GTB, and the 512 BB. According to the story, Junichiro admired Leonardo’s 1998 F100 Prototype vehicle and wanted a custom design along the same lines.

Most of the car’s underpinnings, chassis, and V8 engine were lifted straight from the F430, but the external cladding and styling directly expressed Leonardo Fioravanti’s ideas.

Wild One-Off #9: Ferrari F12 TRS

Via The Supercar Blog.

Based on the F12 Berlinetta, the F12 TRS was a hardcore sports Barchetta commissioned by Ferrari lover and billionaire Sam Li. Power was derived from the same 6.3-litre V12 that drove the F12 Berlinetta, meaning an output of 729-hp and a 3.1-second sprint to 60 mph.

However, it was in the design that the F12 TRS really stood out. First off, there was no roof, hence the ‘Barchetta’ tag. The wraparound windscreen paid homage to the legendary 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa. A redesigned bumper and larger air intakes up front gave the F12 TRS a more aggressive look than the Berlinetta, but the real design highlight was the glass cutout in the hood that allowed a sneaky peek at the red power plant underneath.

According to reports, the development costs reached north of $4 million; no big deal for Sam Li, who ordered not 1 but 2 of the F12 TRS supercars. The first one was finished in liquid silver and the other in the more traditional Ferrari Rosso Red colour.

Wilde One-Off #8: Ferrari P540 Superfast Aperta

Via Motor1.

Before the 812 Superfast, there was this one—the P540 Superfast Aperta. The difference is that the latter was made for a single customer back in 2009.

Edward Walson, son of the guy who invented Cable TV, was so impressed by a car he saw in the 1968 Fellini film Toby Dammit that he approached Ferrari and asked if they could build a similar one for him. The vehicle was designed by Pininfarina and built in Maranello.

A 599 GTB provided the base for the implementation of Walson’s radical ideas. The roof was lopped off, and a lot of bracing was added to strengthen the chassis. Extensive carbon fibre use kept the car’s weight to within 45 lbs above the base 599 GTB.

The P540 Superfast Aperta had the same power plant as the 599 GTB, a 6.0-litre V12 that churned out 611-hp—enough firepower for whatever excitement Walson craved behind the wheel.

Wild One-Off #7: Ferrari Superamerica 45

Via Car Pixel.

The backstory for this one is just as interesting as the car itself. It was commissioned in 2011 by New York-based art collector and property developer Peter Kalikow. The supercar was designed by Ferrari Special Projects to commemorate the 45th anniversary of Kalikow’s first Ferrari purchase, a second-hand 400 Superamerica convertible.

The open-top car debuted at the 2011 Villa d’Este Concours and showcased what Ferrari described as ‘a latest-generation touch-screen infotainment system’ at the time. The Superamerica 45 is based on the 599. Still, it incorporates several unique touches, like the carbon-fibre hardtop that rotates and stows away in a redesigned boot, also made from carbon fibre.

The chrome grille is a custom design, as are the twin air vents in the front fenders. The car is finished in an exclusive ‘Blu Antille’ colour, a deliberate choice chosen because it matches another important car in Kalikow’s collection—a 1961 400 Superamerica cabriolet.

Wild One-Off #6: Ferrari SP12 EC

Via Motor1.

‘EC’ is short for Eric Clapton, and yes, Ferrari did make a custom car for the world-famous musician. The multi-Grammy award winner is a loyal follower of the Prancing horse brand and already had several Ferraris in his possession when he approached Ferrari with his idea for a one-off.

Of course, Ferrari agreed, and the retro-styled SP12 EC was born. The car, inspired by the classic 512 Berlinetta Boxer, is based on the Ferrari 458 Italia. Pininfarina did go to great lengths to ensure that it looked like a completely different car, though, with subtle styling cues that hark back to the classic era.

It retained the same 4.5-litre V8 engine from the 458 Italia, but Eric Clapton can have few complaints about that. That engine can propel the 458 to 60 mph in as little as 3.1 seconds and on to a top speed of about 202 mph.

Wild One-Off #5: Ferrari 458 MM Speciale

Via Top Gear.

The 458 Speciale was a pretty unique machine, the last of the naturally aspirated V8 screamers from the Maranello-based carmaker. However, for one wealthy British collector, the stock car was not enough, and he wanted something in a league of its own; something nobody else could own.

That desire ultimately birthed the 458 MM Speciale. It uses the same high-revving 597-bhp V8 engine from the 458 Speciale but sports significant visual changes that immediately set it apart.

The design language includes redesigned front and rear bumpers and more aggressive lines around the car’s front and sides. In addition, there is a new air scoop and intakes to funnel even more air into the engine bay and over a fixed ducktail spoiler. The car is finished in a shade of white—known as Bianco Italia in Ferrari lingo—and complemented by the Italian flag livery.

Wild One-Off #4: Ferrari SP 275 RW Competizione

Via Car Pixel.

In 2016, the SP 275 RW Competizione was unveiled to pay homage to the 275 GTB, Ferrari’s V12 sports car manufactured from 1964 to 1968. It was built for American dentist Rick Workman, who serves up living proof that you can make a lot of money fixing people’s teeth.

The car rides on a slightly modified F12 Berlinetta chassis but draws its potency from its hardcore sibling—the F12 TDF. That means a formidable 6.3-litre V12 under the hood that delivers 789-hp at 8,500 rpm to the rear wheels.

The SP 275 Competizione includes visual 275 GTB cues like louvres cut into the bodywork, aluminum fuel cap, and bespoke rear-end styling. The bright yellow paint is a nod to racing team Ecurie Francorchamps’ 275 GTB that won the GT class at Le Mans in 1965.

Wild One-Off #3: Ferrari SP38

Via Top Gear.

Ronnie Kessel owns a racing team and is a highly respected Ferrari dealer. He also happens to be the lucky owner of the SP38, a $4 million one-off Ferrari supercar that had its official debut at the 2018 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.

It rides on a 488 GTB platform, but every external body panel has been replaced with new ones that reference a mix of other cars in the Ferrari lineup like the F40, the 308 and even the 458 MM Speciale (another Special Projects Ferrari). The most distinguishing feature of the SP38 is the louvred engine cover, made from carbon fibre.

The air intakes on the 488 GTB are gone. Instead, the intercoolers receive air from special inlets beside the side windows. It shares the same powertrain with the 488 GTB, so packed within that frame is a twin-turbocharged V8 that churns out an impressive 661-hp and 561 lb-ft of torque.

Wild One-Off #2: Ferrari P80/C

Via Top Gear.

The P80/C carries the distinction of being the first track-only car from the Ferrari Special Projects division. It is also the first built on a competition chassis, that of the 488 GT3.

However, the fact that the P80/C cannot be used for any competition racing meant it was free from any FIA restrictions. That allowed Ferrari to go all out in designing a truly bespoke hardcore machine.

The P80/C reportedly took about four years to develop and involved several meetings between the design team and the car’s owner, Hong Kong businessman and Ferrari diehard TK Mak. A standout feature is the gigantic T-wing, inspired by Ferrari F1 cars and designed to help reduce turbulence as air flows over the car’s rear.

Then there’s the massive rear diffuser that juts out aggressively, keeping the car planted as it is put through its paces at the track. The P80/C gets the 488 GT3’s twin-turbo V8, but in this case, it’s derestricted, and power output is thought to be in excess of 700-hp.

Wild One-Off #1: Ferrari Omologata

Via Carscoops.

This is one of the latest creations from Ferrari Special Projects. To create the Omologata, Ferrari took the already-bonkers 812 Superfast and stretched the design and engineering boundaries even further.

According to Ferrari, this is more than just a mere facelift. In fact, only the windscreen and headlights are shared with the 812 Superfast.

The Omologata was hand-crafted from aluminum and took two years to develop. The Rosso Magma shade was specially created for the supercar and is complemented by the racing number roundels on the hoods and doors. The rear windscreen is gone, replaced by slats similar to the F40 to highlight the car’s racing pedigree.

Ferrari has been very secretive about the powertrain, but it will not be out of place to assume it is the same 789-hp V12 unit found in the 812 Superfast. Hopefully, the Omologata will not waste away in some private collection and will get opportunities to really stretch its legs.

The Eleventh Horse: Ferrari BR20

Via Top Gear.

I was just finishing up this piece when I came across the news of the latest Ferrari Special Projects baby. There was no way I was going to pass up the chance to slide it in here.

It’s called the BR20 and is based on the 2+2 GTC4 Lusso. However, the chassis has been reworked to accommodate a longer, sleeker ‘fastback’ profile, reminiscent of the classic Ferrari coupes like the Ferrari 410 Superamerica and the 500 Superfast.

There are no rear seats in the BR20, but in its place, Ferrari has crafted an elegant luggage deck, complete with genuine oak trimmings. It ties in nicely with other parts of the interior, which is done up in expensive leather and carbon fibre inserts, giving off a mix of classy and modern vibes.

Ferrari is being coy about the powertrain, but since the BR20 borrows from the V12 GTC4 Lusso (and not the V8 version), it’s logical to assume that the same 6.3-litre unit powers the one-off fastback. That’s at least 680 horses under the hood, more than enough to transform the BR20 into a speedy grand tourer in a flash.

November 21, 2021 / Comments Off

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Ferrari Daytona SP3 Specs and Pricing

The new Ferrari Daytona SP3 was officially unveiled at the Mugello Circuit during the 2021 Ferrari Finali Mondiali. The new limited edition model will be joining Icona series which debuted in 2018 with the Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2.

The Daytona SP3 features a Targa body with a removable hard top, the design of the vehicle features surfaces and contrasts inspired by the legendary 1960’s prototypes such as the 330 P4, 512 S and 350 Can-Am.

Ferrari Daytona SP3 Specs and Pricing

Powertrain	6.5L N/A V12
Horsepower	840hp
Torque	647nm
Transmission	7 Speed F1 Dual Clutch Transmission
0-100 km/h	2.85s
Top Speed	340 km/h+
Production	599 units
Price	€2,000,000 incl. VAT €1.6 Million excl. VAT

The new model is powered by a 6.5 liter naturally aspirated V12 engine mounted in the mid-rear of the vehicle. The engine delivers an output power of 840hp and 697 Nm of torque, it is the most powerful engine ever built by Ferrari. The acceleration from 0-100km/h is achieved in 2.8 seconds and 0-200km/h in 7.4 seconds.

Additionally, the aerodynamics and design of the Daytona SP3 focuses on achieving maximum efficiency using passive aero solutions. The vehicle is currently the most aerodynamically efficient car built by Ferrari without the use of active aero devices thanks to the unique features such as chimneys that release low pressure air from the underbody.

The exterior of the Daytona SP3 features a wraparound windscreen back, clean double-crested front wings, butterfly doors with an air box for channeling air to the side radiators, wing mirrors moved to the top of the wings, a central grille framed by two pillars and horizontal blades on the front bumper and two air vents on the bonnet for making the wings look wider.

Furthermore, the exterior also features tail lights made of horizontal luminous bar beneath the spoiler joined into the first line of blades and twin tailpipes in the central upper part of the diffuser.

Ferrari Daytona SP3

The interior of the vehicle is also inspired by the historic Ferraris. The interior features a broadened cabin with a clear break between the dash area and the two seats, a dashboard divided into an upper and lower level, independent seats integrated into the chassis and leather padding on the door panel.

Additionally, the seat is an integral part of the chassis to help reduce weight and improve the seating position of the driver. The steering wheel features the same Human-Machine Interface as on the SF90 Stradale, Ferrari Roma, SF90 Spider and 296 GTB and the dashboard is equipped with a 16 inch curved HD screen.

The vehicle has been fitted with a set of new P Zero Corsa tires optimised for both wet and dry surfaces from Pirelli.

November 21, 2021 / Comments Off

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Ferrari Daytona SP3 — A Closer Look

For VVIPs Only: Latest ‘Icona’ Series Ferrari is an Absolute Knockout

While the 2021 LA Auto Show (#laautoshow) continues to impress with its showcase of new game-changing cars from the world’s automotive heavyweights, Ferrari has decided to host an unveiling event of its very own making. Away from all the noise and fanfare of a hastily packed convention center, Ferrari today revealed its new Ferrari Daytona SP3 on its own terms, and own turf. The latest uber-limited-edition ‘Icona’ had its covers removed at Mugello circuit, where it was treated to a hospitable reception in front of a Tuscan backdrop during the 2021 Finali Mondiali.

Suffice to say, the Ferrari Daytona SP3 has a lot of really amazing things going for it, not least of which is its status as one of the Prancing Horse marque’s ‘Icona’ models (and the motorsport history that’s attached to them). The SP3 becomes the latest addition to a 3-car roster currently occupying this revered (and virtually untouchable) place in the Ferrari hierarchy. It also continues to embody the spirit of iconic sports-prototype racers from the mid-last-century, just as the Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2 had done before it.

With immediate and total effect, the Daytona SP3 adopts its silhouette from a trio of Ferrari racing cars which participated in the 1967 24 Hours of Daytona—namely the 330P3/4, 330P4 and 412P. Not only was an outright Ferrari victory achieved here—with the cars managing an already notable 1-2-3 finish—but it also served as the ultimate retort for what had transpired at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans, where fierce rival Ford Motor Company, had achieved the same result with 3 of their GT40 race cars just a year before.

Design & Philosophy

Now, back to the SP3; the car bears an obvious resemblance and is a modern-but-transparent tribute to those cars, most notably via its muscular wheel arches and mid-engine design. This does more than just harken back to years gone by, as the SP3 is also the most aerodynamically efficient car Ferrari claims it has ever produced. Remarkably, this is achieved without using the more contemporary methods of tacking on large rear wings, aggressive dive planes, eccentric splitters/diffusers and huge air vents on the fenders and bonnet. The Daytona SP3 also happens to feature a Targa-top design with a removable glass roof panel.

In fact, the body of the SP3 is incredibly streamlined and dare I say, minimalist for what it is—it appears this way, at least. Ferrari themselves probably said it better, stating that they intended to “create the impression of a light, radical, structured monolithic volume that lends the Daytona SP3 a look that is both futuristic and a nod to signatures from Ferrari’s DNA.” This begins with a monocoque chassis built using the latest Formula One technologies—something not done to this degree since the LaFerrari—then applying the most advanced and lightweight materials that can be afforded for a street-legal road car. Translation: all exterior body panels are composed entirely of the most finely-produced carbon fiber, resulting dry weight is 3,275 lbs.

Inside, the same philosophies are applied; retro design elements combine seamlessly with modern technologies. The most interesting feature in the cabin would have to be the seats, which are integrated into the cockpit and have their inner side bolstering fused over the transmission tunnel—another nod to sports cars from the 1960s era. The instrument cluster (and general user interface) is digital, and is indeed the very same one used on the SF90 Stradale hybrid hypercar; after all, a more analog approach on an 829 hp car equipped with Formula One technologies won’t do, and Ferrari has to draw the line somewhere, right?

Engine & Performance

If we’re honest, this car just wouldn’t make a whole lot of sense if it didn’t also come equipped with the most powerful (purely combustion) engine the company has ever made. Thankfully, Ferrari understand this as well as anyone else, and they’ve only gone and done just that, by mid-mounting the spectacular 6.5L naturally-aspirated V12 engine from the 812 Competizione into the SP3. Of course, it also has to make more power than the latter, so upgrades such as titanium connecting rods and a revised direct injection fueling system allow the SP3 to produce 829 hp, versus the mere 819 hp the 812 Competizione is able to muster.

The Daytona SP3 also retains the astronomically-bliss 9,500 rpm redline and mated to the engine is a 7-speed dual clutch transmission which is responsible for sending power to the rear wheels. In all, this allows the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 2.85 seconds, on its way to 200 km/h in only 7.4 seconds from a standstill.

Pricing & Availability

As for pricing and availability, Ferrari has been unequivocal as one could be without needing to provide any firm numbers in terms of costs of production numbers. They’ve done so by stating that the Ferrari Daytona SP3 is “…aimed solely at Ferrari’s top clients and collectors, proud ambassadors for the Prancing Horse marque.” In Italian, I think that means it’s going to be really, really expensive, and that they’ll let you know if you’ve been selected as one of the very few privileged people on this planet to have a go at owning one. But if we were going to make any guesses here, expect unit production numbers to be in the low-hundreds and a (starting) purchase price in the $2-3 million USD range.

Gallery

November 20, 2021 / Comments Off

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All posts in “Cars”

The Porsche Taycan: Sowing the Seeds

From Mission E to the Porsche Taycan

Model Variants: Milking the Porsche Taycan

The Journey Ahead for the Porsche Taycan

BMW XM Specs and Pricing

Related Stories

Comments and Honours by teams and drivers on hearing of his passing:

New Air Curtains

Air Flow through the Front Section

Newly Developed Wings

New Wheel Arch Ventilation Function

Handmade Wings

A Long Tail for High Speeds

Larger Rear Wing

Larger Diffusor

Exhaust System made with a Titanium 3D Printing Process

W16-Engine with more Power and higher RPMs

More Efficient Turbochargers

New Gear Ratio

Newly Developed and Refined Chassis

New Michelin Tires for Top Speed

Lightweight Rims with a New Design

First up a series of racecars, or race-inspired concepts:

How about something really different:

Tuning mayhem:

Movie cars

The final few, the odd ones:

2010 Ferrari 599 GTB

2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray

2016 Porsche (981) Cayman GT4

Porsche 911 GT3 Touring (992)

Bentley Continental GT V8

McLaren GT

Aston Martin DB11 AMR

Ferrari Roma

Lexus LC 500

Rolls-Royce Wraith

Lotus Evora GT

Audi e-tron GT

McLaren Speedtail

Aston Vantage AMR

Jaguar F-Type R

Porsche 911 Turbo / Turbo S (992)

Ferrari 812 Competizione

Nissan GT-R

Aston Martin DBS Superleggera

Porsche Taycan (All Models)

Mercedes-AMG GT Models

Audi RS 7

Rolls-Royce Dawn

Porsche Cayman / Boxster GTS 4.0

BMW M8 Gran Coupe

Tesla Model S Plaid+

Mercedes-AMG S 63

Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid

Wild One-Off #10: Ferrari SP1

Wild One-Off #9: Ferrari F12 TRS

Wilde One-Off #8: Ferrari P540 Superfast Aperta

Wild One-Off #7: Ferrari Superamerica 45

Wild One-Off #6: Ferrari SP12 EC

Wild One-Off #5: Ferrari 458 MM Speciale

Wild One-Off #4: Ferrari SP 275 RW Competizione

Wild One-Off #3: Ferrari SP38

Wild One-Off #2: Ferrari P80/C

Wild One-Off #1: Ferrari Omologata

The Eleventh Horse: Ferrari BR20

Ferrari Daytona SP3 Specs and Pricing

For VVIPs Only: Latest ‘Icona’ Series Ferrari is an Absolute Knockout

Design & Philosophy

Engine & Performance

Pricing & Availability

Gallery