New-and-Lightweight-Audi-TT-Ultra-Quattro-Concept-1024x682 Apr 25 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

New and Lightweight Audi TT Ultra Quattro Concept

In celebration of the 2013 Wörthersee Tour, Audi has released an enhanced concept version of its TT model. The newAudi TT Ultra Quattro concept is much lighter than the stock car, thanks to an extensive use of carbon fiber and other weight-saving tricks.

By swapping some old detachable body components with new carbon reinforced plastic ones, Audi managed to shed off 95 lbs. Carbon fiber was also used for many of the interior trims, while the original seats were changed with R8 GT borrowed ones, with CFRP frames.

The result is a concept with 220 less pounds than the production version. This combined with 310 HP and 295 lb-ft of torque results in excellent performance figures: a top speed of 173 mph and a 0-60 mph time of only 4.2 seconds.

Apr 22 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

2013 Porsche Boxster S RED 7 Exclusively for the Netherlands

Specially created for the Netherlands, the 2013 Porsche Boxster S RED 7 is a very limited edition version of the new generation Boxster. Its name is pretty clear on its most important features: the fact that it boasts an intense red color which gives it a powerful visual appeal, and the fact that it will only be produced in 7 examples.

The Indian Red exterior goes excellently with the contrasting Platinum trunk lid and front hood, both with a matte finish. The lower stance of the car is ensured by a new sports suspension. A sports exhaust system is also part of the deal. Finally, the interior of the ride is black leather with Guard Red trims to keep with the theme. The door sill plates are illuminated, and the audio system is singed by Bose. The Sport Chrono package and the Porsche Communication Management system are also part of the deal.

With a price that starts at €119,935, the car is fitted with 3.4-liter flat-six engine with 315 HP and 265 lb-ft of torque. The gearbox is a seven-speed PDK one, which helps the car reach the 62 mph threshold in 5 seconds. Every unit is sold with a bespoke leather key case, a car cover, and even a coffee table book about it.

bugatti_grand_sport_world_record_edition_topping_4088_kmph_of_top_speed_aghrz Apr 15 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

Bugatti to produce eight Veyron World Record Car special editions

When the name Bugatti Veyron comes up, the word speed automatically comes as a recall to it’s most endearing feature. The fastest car in the world seems to be very speed thrill seeker dream, and it is for this reason that the vehicle gets it’s popularity. However, there are only a few who actually manage to get hold of one of these, as most are special editions with design tweaks on the original offering, with a heftier price tag than the normal. Now to please another elite bunch, the company has showcased their next creation, the 8 special edition Veyron world record versions of the car at Shanghai Motor Show 2013. With the speed factor being the main focus, the Grand Sport World Record edition has been known to touch speeds of 408.8 kmph, which makes it the fastest road legal convertible in the world.

bugatti_grand_sport_world_record_edition_has_been_given_an_interplay_of_tangerine_and_black_shades_throughout_n1ob1

01-subaru-wrx-concept-ny-1024x680 Apr 12 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

New Subaru WRX Concept Suggests Excellent Power and Speed

Subaru has unveiled its new WRX concept in New York and even though official information is scarce, the design features of the ride are suggestive of pretty cool performance and power figures as well. Low, wide and menacing looking, this sedan says a lot only by its looks.

First of all, you can’t overlook the hood scoop and the power bulge that pushes outwards and makes room for the new engine with turbocharger and intercooler. Then your eyes will definitely linger on the carbon fiber-only roof, a detail which reduces weight and also helps lower the car’s center of gravity – an essential thing at high speeds.

The sculpted air intakes in the new front fascia suggest a powerful engine that needs a lot of ventilation. They also play an important role in generating downforce.  Clear indicators of muscle and speed can be seen at the rear as well: quad tailpipes and a new curved trunk lid spoiler.

The four blistered wheel arches indicate that an all-wheel-drive configuration will ensure excellent traction, and we like that detail too. Another feature that you might like is the new set of 245-section Dunlop tires wrapped around 20-inch BBS wheels. For more visual enjoyment check out the gallery below.

 

detroit_electric_sp01_car_chassis_pxmvd Apr 02 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

Detroit Electric SP:01 is the world’s fastest electric car all set to rival Tesla

The competition seems to be raging wild in the electric car segment. To set the bar of capabilities for the category of electric cars even higher, the Detroit electric SP:01 is set to compete with Tesla Roadster, to become the fastest production electric vehicle currently available. The emission-free car has been fitted with a 150 Kw engine, which can take the traveling speed from 0 to 100 kmph within just 3.7 seconds, and the top speed pegged at 249 kmph. Also, with a single charge, one can cover a distance of 290 kms at a stretch. The SP:01 also carries a limited edition production run of 999 units, with a price tag of $135,000 for each unit.

To speed up a 4-wheeler to such speeds with an electrical engine, isn’t short of anything of a total genius. To ensure that the numbers match up, the body of the SP:01 has been crafted out of the same carbon fiber grade seen in F1 racing cars. The major benefit has been the 2,354-lb body weight, making the car agile for its dimensions. However, the framework on which the body chassis has been set, has been crafted with high grade aluminum which gives the necessary stability to the chassis. Also, there has been plenty of work on the new performance tuned suspension, steering, and braking systems, which aide proper handling of the SP:01.

The electric motor fitted in engine of the race car, is come fitted with batteries which take 4.3 hours for a single full recharge. It has a capacity of 37 Kwh, and generates an output power of 201 BHP, enabling to build up a top speed of 249 kmph, and take just 3.7 seconds to travel from 0 to 100 kmph. The innovation which takes the SP:01 to the levels of any racing super car, is the electromagnetic field which builds around the rotor-shaft thus pushing the wheel to travel at various levels of speed. There is the option for drivers to try the varied selection of gearing ratios, which will help them drive optimally under different surfaces and conditions, without having to change gears very frequently.

 

 

img0758-1024x682 Mar 28 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

SRT Creates the New Viper TA and Motor Trend Tests It

Ambition can generate great things. The guys behind the all new SRT Viper TA (Time Attack) can tell you exactly how much of a difference a hurt pride can make. After the SRT Viper GTS lost to the Corvette ZR1 on the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca tack, the specialists at SRT started to work harder on a brand new Viper that would compensate for the previous loss of over 2 seconds.

So here is what the new TA boasts as improvements. First of all, a lot of carbon fiber and other weight reducing improvements made their way onto the new car. Even the iconic badges were swapped with virtually weightless stickers. Also part of the package were the new larger Brembo brakes, better wheels, and a two-mode suspension system with not Street setting! The driver can only choose between the Rough and Smooth modes.

Motor Trend, the same car guru that had organized the race between the GTS and the ZR1, was beyond impressed with the new TA. Apparently they have never driven a faster Viper than this one, and they were happy to say that the level of improvement it boasted was remarkable. We can’t wait to see what Chevrolet will have to say about all this.

 

Mar 26 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

Awesome DMC Duro Package for the 2013 Bentley Continental GT

DMC has unveiled a new and very exciting upgrade kit for one of the most alluring luxury cars out there – the 2013 Bentley Continental GT. They called it Duro and they made it awesome.

The entire body kit is based on carbon fiber, from the new rear diffuser and spoiler to the aerodynamic sills and front bumper with spoiler. To match the new sporty look of the car, DMC also added a new set of 22-inch wheels with 295/25/22 tires, as well as a new exhaust system made of titanium.

The interior is customizable according to the client’s preferences, which makes thing even more exciting. They will be able to choose from a variety of fine materials and trims, such as exotic wood, carbon fiber, and premium leather.

Finally, the tuners made some changes into the engine department as well, offering 901 HP and 575 lb-ft of torque. The new top speed is 200 mph, and the 0-60 mph time is 4.5 seconds. How does all this sound to us? Very ‘Yes, please’!

 

Mar 23 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

One of the most beautiful Maserati 300S racing cars offered at Goodwood Festival of Speed Auction

Though the 1950’s will be known for producing automobile’s history greatest editions from Ferrari, but the Italian brand Maserati managed to grab considerable eye balls as well. In 2009, Fantasy Junction had auctioned a 1953 Maserati A6GCS for a price tag of $1.95 million. Now Bonham’s will undertake the auction of a 1955 Maserati 300S, which belonged to the famed American car collector, Briggs Swift Cunningham at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed. One of the most sought after vehicles from the Italian luxury auto brand, famed World Champion driver Sir Stirling Moss quoted about the 300S, saying “…one of my favorite front-engined sports Maseratis – one of the easiest, nicest, best-balanced sports-racing cars ever made…”.

 

 

Mar 01 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

2013 Ferrari FF with Siri, iPad integration for a better speed and tech filled ride

The 2013 Geneva Auto Show is proving to be another hotbed for technology and automobile geeks, where the bigger guys are putting up quite a show to outdo each other. If owning a Ferrari wasn’t just good enough; now the Ferrari FF will sport iPad integration feature in its setup. The 2013 edition of the supercar will also feature the additional benefit of having Siri eyes free integration while taking a ride in the backseat of the vehicle. The iPads will be fixed into the front seat headrests, where users can surf and control all their multimedia content via Apple’s ‘Siri’ programme, thus making the already thrilling ride in a Ferrari a step more tech friendly.

This setup wasn’t completed in a day. The chief of Apple’s software and services group Eddie Cue led a crucial role in ensuring that the new Ferrari FF sports this additional feature. Last year when Luca di Mentezemolo and Tim Cook sat down for doing something together, their mission was clear and something of this sort was always on the cards, which finally has manifested itself in the form of this upgrade in the Ferrari FF. And if the word is to be believed, this isn’t the end of it. We are still in the earlier half of 2013, and official statements say that Apple and Ferrari will be working on a large number of products together.

 

 

1994_jaguar_xj220_once_considered_jaguars_fastest_ever_road_car_at_historics_auction_rbm2r Feb 21 2013 · 1 comment · Blog · 0

1994 Jaguar XJ220 once considered Jaguar’s fastest-ever road car is for grabs at Historics auction

Sports car collectors now stands a rare chance to grab Jaguar’s one of the fastest road car presented in immaculate condition throughout and having just one owner from new over the last 19 years, the 1994 Jaguar XJ220 at Historics at Brooklands’ classic and collector car auction on Saturday, March 9. And the fact that this visceral motorcar is one of just 11 lefthand drive XJ220 cars finished in Daytona Black, and comes with an original Jaguar Sport build record sheet and the Howard Davies-signed thank-you letter from Project XJ220 Ltd., which makes it ever more rarer and sought-after. However, the interested bidders for this 1994 Jaguar XJ220 with odometer reading of just 16,798, should also note that if this car which is now in France is to be imported permanently into Britain then vat will be applicable and charged at 20% of the auctioned/hammer price. Besides, we have also seen the sale of some classic Jaguars, including the first XK120, the first D-type which fetched a record million dollar price on auction, and the rare Jaguar C-Type replica based on original 1953 version which was expected to sell for over $200,000.

 

first_2014_chevrolet_corvette_stingray_c7_involved_in_one_car_accident_during_routine_testing_in_arizona_fyaac Feb 14 2013 · 1 comment · Blog · 0

First 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray ‘C7’ involved in one-car accident during routine testing in Arizona

With distinct aeronautical lines, flowing exterior, and a sleek fastback finish, a machine that emerges with the aesthetic impact and the performance prowess worthy of a Stingray emblem, the much-hyped about 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray ‘C7’ was found involved in a one-car accident during engineering testing in Arizona. This 450 hp stunning ride which is the 7th generation of the classical American sports car introduced after year 2005, and is capable to accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than 4 seconds, received only minor damage, no citations were issued and no one got hurt, as per the automaker General Motors which recently auctioned first Chevrolet Corvette Stingray for $1.05 million to Nascar team owner and avid Corvette collector Rick Hendrick at Barrett-Jackson for charity.

nissan_gt_r_gold_by_wrapstyle_comes_fitted_with_gold_vinyl_wrap_and_wheels_finished_in_gold_paint_lfbcx Feb 13 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

Nissan GT-R Gold by WrapStyle comes fitted with gold vinyl wrap and wheels finished in gold paint

For the likes of discerning individuals and auto enthusiasts with a penchant for blinged-up autos festooned with gold, diamonds and precious stones, the premium car styling specialists WrapStyle has now created a gold-wrapped Nissan GT-R. However, this version certainly reminds us of the custom-edition $100,000 gold-plated GT-R ‘Bolt Gold’ which the Japanese multinational automaker Nissan auctioned to develop to benefit the world’s fastest man Usain Bolt’s Foundation, as a recognition of Jamaican Olympic phenomenon’s contribution to athletics and his automotive enthusiasm. This particular car by WrapStyle comes fitted with a gold vinyl wrap, wheels also finished in a gold paint, and the windows are also tinted in a complementary gold dust theme, giving the supercar a complete gold look.

Mercedes-Benz-C63-AMG-Edition-507-1-1024x682 Feb 09 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

Awesome C63 AMG Edition 507 by Mercedes-Benz

Inspired by the irresistible Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series, the new C63 AMG Edition 507 is a true stunner, recently unveiled by the German automaker for its most discerning fans. The car is only 10 hp and 10 Nm less powerful than the Black Series, being powered by an upgraded 6.3-liter V8 engine that can put out 507 hp at 6,800 RPM and 610 Nm at 5,200 RPM.

The Edition 507 also flaunts advanced technologies borrowed from the SLS, including forged pistons, lightweight crankshaft, and connecting rods. It is mounted on new 19-inch wheels that come with high performance suspension system and composite braking system, 360 x 36 mm disks, and red calipers.

Other alluring elements include new ECU, titanium gray variable intake manifold, rear axle locking differential, special exterior mirror housings, a trunk lid spoiler, radiator grille surrounds, Black Series borrowed hood, and a lavish interior with leather upholstery in various design options, plus an Alcantara steering wheel.

When the car will become available for purchase on April 8, it will come in three body versions: coupe, sedan and estate. The first two will complete the 0-62 mph sprint in 4.2 seconds, while the latter will need 0.1 seconds more to finish the same task – unnoticeable difference, really.

 

BMW GT3 Feb 04 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

2014 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo adds an innovative new concept to the BMW 3 Series line-up

Designed to boast a distinctive presence on the road and offer the ultimate, luxurious driving pleasure, here’s the all-new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo that impressively adds an innovative concept to the acclaimed BMW 3 Series line-up. With innovative, emotional and practical design, powerful dynamics, coupe-style roofline, large tailgate, space-loving elegance with 1st-class character, and 300 hp 3.0 – liter, turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine, this useful luxury machine truly becomes an immediately recognizable BMW 3 Series member. Regarded to be the German automaker’s first ever model to sport an active rear spoiler, the new 2014 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo with four doors and frameless windows will arrive in summers in the United States as both a 335i and 328i, and will make its world debut at the upcoming Geneva Auto Show.

With cacooning nature of the interior, further complemented by its state-of-the-art design forms, impressive color scheme and finest materials that creates ultra-luxurious ambiance, the occupants enjoys both long journeys and short trips alike in relaxed, utmost comfort.

Notably, the discreet high gloss chrome touches lend the car’s exterior an exclusive and elegant appeal, while the advanced, high-tech, lively engine with TwinPower Turbo technology impressively sets the benchmark for high efficiency and dynamics.

 

2013-Aston-Martin-Rapide-S-8-1024x636 Jan 27 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

Gorgeous 2013 Aston Martin Rapide S Facelift

Get ready to meet the newest stunner from Aston Martin. The 2013 Rapide S is flawless in every way, being more powerful, faster, and better looking than its previous version. After the facelift, the lavish sedan became even more alluring, with a redesigned front grille, a new rear lip spoiler, and an optional Carbon Exterior Pack that includes a carbon front splitter, new rear diffuser, exterior mirror housings, and rear lamp fills.

The more significant changes, however, occurred underneath all this exterior charm. The already potent 5.9-liter V12 engine is now capable of putting out 81 more hp than before, meaning that if flaunts a total of 558 hp. The torque was also increased from 600 Nm to 620 Nm. As a result, the car’s performance was significantly changed: the new 0-62 mph time is 4.9 seconds, while the top speed is 190 mph.

Finally, the Rapide also got a nice interior upgrade, which begins with sporty black and red Duotone leather upholstery, and ends with nice piano black trims. The foldable rear seat is standard, while the twin-screen entertainment system and the reversing camera are optional. Enthusiastic fans can expect the ride on the market starting next month (February).

gm_ceo_dan_akersons_1958_chevrolet_corvette_sells_for_270k_at_barrett_jackson_for_charity_z4mlf Jan 22 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

GM CEO Dan Akerson’s 1958 Chevrolet Corvette Sells For $270k at Barrett-Jackson, Scottsdale for charity

With an impressive track record of using historically significant vehicles to raise funds for worthy causes, it wasn’t just the General Motors who offered its very first 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray at the Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale Auction in Arizona for charity, but also the world’s largest automaker’s Chairman and CEO Dan Akerson who offered his personal 1958 Chevrolet Corvette to raise money for Habitat for Humanity. After crossing the block at the Barrett-Jackson’s auction, the Corvette C7 got sold for $1.05 million to Nascar team owner and avid Corvette collector Rick Hendrick, and the Akerson’s hardtop convertible Regal Turquoise’ 1958 Chevy Corvette with dual headlamps, hood louvers, and twin chrome trunk spears garnered $270,000. Notably, all the proceeds from the sale will go to the Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing organization to which Mr. Akerson together with his wife Karin has already donated more than a million.

 

general_motors_to_auction_first_chevrolet_corvette_stingray_c7_at_barrett_jackson_for_charity_vowbn Jan 18 2013 · 2 comments · Blog · 0

General Motors to auction first Chevrolet Corvette Stingray ‘C7’ at Barrett-Jackson for charity

At the Barrett-Jackson’s 2013 Scottsdale auctions in Arizona on 19th January, the sports car enthusiasts and collectors stands an exclusive chance to take home the one-of-a-kind ‘piece of Chevy history’. As the very first 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray ‘C7’, the 7th generation of the classic American sports car which has been engineered to defy convention and designed on purpose to dismiss the ritualistic and the cliché, to come off the Chevrolet’s production facility will be auctioned for charity by General Motors. Acclaimed to be the world’s largest automaker and a leading contributor to charity with an impressive track record of using historically significant models to raise funds for worthy causes, General Motors will auction off its completely-redesigned, most powerful and capable Corvette without reserve to raise funds to help College for Creative Studies charity. And considering the fact that the very first SRT Viper successfully fetched $300,000 at a Barrett-Jackson’s auction held last year, it’s been estimated that this Corvette C7 on sale, which was recently unveiled at Detroit Auto Show along with the Bentley’s world’s fastest four-seat convertible will also garner an impressive figure at the auction block.

Jan 15 2013 · 2 comments · Blog · 0

Aston Martin’s bespoke Centenary Edition Vanquish represents celebration of the automaker’s 100-year history

Founded back in 1913 by Robert Bamford and Lionel Martin as ‘Bamford & Martin Ltd’, the iconic British sports car brand Aston Martin, which is known for designing stylish hand-built sports cars with highly competitive performance aspects, has now launched its year of centenary celebrations with a return to its roots. The luxury brand marked the start of its birthday celebrations on January 15th with the unveiling of a bespoke, special, new Centenary Edition of its ultimate GT, the Vanquish. Representing an exclusive new celebration of the automaker’s 100-year history, the Centenary Edition Vanquish boasts an exceptional graduated paint finish, a hallmark, and sterling silver Aston Martin wing badges. However, the opportunity to own and enjoy such an incredible piece of Aston Martin’s rich heritage has been made ultra-exclusive as only 100 examples of this machine will be produced.

DMC-Upgraded-the-Beautiful-Ferrari-F12-Berlinetta-1 Jan 14 2013 · 29 comments · Blog · 0

DMC Upgraded the Beautiful Ferrari F12 Berlinetta

The passionate tuners at DMC have completed a new amazing project: a remarkable upgrade for the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta. For a more aggressive look, it received a carbon fiber kit comprised of a roof scoop, prominent lip spoiler, spoiler wing, new side skirts, diffuser plates, and even a carbon fiber hood.

Also part of the upgrade are a new set of alloy wheels, measuring 21 inches at the front and 22 inches at the rear. They are wrapped in performance rubbers: 332/25 and 255/30. In terms of performance, the Berlinetta is now more ferocious, being capable of putting out 764 hp (24 extra hp) from its 6.2-liter V12 engine. It also received a custom titanium exhaust, and this helps it reach up to 217 mph.

 

8467574.151 Jan 13 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

Barret-Jackson Is Here In Scottsdale, Arizona!

We love our cars in Phoenix. With the spread of the land we occupy, how could we not? Miles upon miles are covered with various modes of transportation that represent our personalities, lifestyles, and a way to get from point A to B. History and innovation have spawned thousands of enthusiasts, collectors, and connoisseurs of four-wheeled acceleration, and there’s a place that brings them together in an annual gathering of awe.

The Barrett-Jackson car auction will start right up and run smooth at Westworld of Scottsdale, 16601 North Pima Road, Sunday, January 13, through Sunday, January 20. Since 1971, the auction has drawn in fans from all over the world to witness offerings of master craftsmanship that revisit the past in spectacular fashion. From the elegance of a 1939 Bentley to the raw muscle of a Mach 1 Mustang, these beauties will leave you tempted to take out a second mortgage.

 http://www.barrett-jackson.com/scottsdale

 Daily tickets range from $8 to $55. Weeklong passes are $100 to $130

Oakley-Design-Lamborghini-Aventador-LP760-4-Dragon-Edition-1 Jan 12 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

Oakley Design’s Lamborghini Aventador LP760-4 Dragon Edition

Not that it needed any improvements of any kind, but the superb Lamborghini Aventador LP760-4 has just gotten more appealing. Thanks to some special attention from Oakley Design and Refined Marques, the ride boasts better aerodynamics, new wheels, and extra muscle.

To match all these changes, the tuners gave the car a new name as well: Lamborghini Aventador LP760-4 Dragon Edition. Only ten units will ever reach production lines, and they will be equipped with new body kits that include a number of carbon fiber accents, fixed rear wings, and new front bumpers. Matching these changes are the HRE Wheels with red brake calipers.

Powering the car is a 6.5-liter V12 engine capable of 760 HP and 745 Nm of torque. Also part of the upgrade is the remapped ECU and the new titanium exhaust system, as well as the lower overall weight: 77 lbs less than the original version. For the inside, the Lamborghini received embroidered dragon figures and number plaques

2014_chevrolet_corvette_stingray_d1fvo Jan 06 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is the 7th generation model of the sportscar named after WW II warship

Engineered to defy convention, designed on purpose to dismiss the ritualistic and the cliché, here’s the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, an entirely new machine that emerges with the aesthetic impact and the performance prowess worthy of the Stingray emblem. With distinct aeronautical lines, flowing exterior, and a sleek fastback finish, this stunning ride which is the 7th generation of the classical American sports car introduced after year 2005, is the most powerful and capable standard model ever, with an estimated 450 horsepower that enables it to accelerate from 0-60 in less than 4 seconds and achieve more than 1g in cornering grip. However, this completely-redesigned Corvette Stingray shares only two functional parts with the previous generation Corvette, and incorporates an all-new frame structure and chassis, a new powertrain and supporting technologies, as well as completely new interior design and exterior. Regarded as ‘C7’ Corvette by enthusiasts, this 2014 model which is expected to be the most fuel-efficient Corvette, was unveiled at the prestigious Detroit Auto Show, where we also saw the launch of the Bentley’s world’s fastest four-seat convertible.

 

2003 Chevrolet Corvettes C1-C5 Jan 01 2013 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

Happy birthday Corvette!

The Chevrolet Corvette is as American as a cheeseburger with fries or fireworks on the Fourth of July.

A motoring icon and for many the only true US sportscar that can be mentioned in the same breath as the raging bulls of Lamborghini or prancing horses of Ferrari, it’s hard to believe that the two-seater V8 turns 60 years old in 2013.

classic_cars_at_rm_auctions_arizona_2013_8cmir Dec 31 2012 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

Classic Cars at RM Auctions Arizona 2013

Enthusiasts and discerning car collectors now stands an exceptional opportunity to grab some of the rarest, best of category examples, and hand-picked selection of approximately 80 automotive icons, classics that have actually transcended the collector car hobby, at the RM Auctions’ Arizona sale on 18th January, 2013, held annually at the beautiful and majestic Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa. Headlining early entries is a 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta ‘Competizione which is simply irresistable to any serious Ferrari collector, the 1935 Cadillac Series 40 convertible featured the movie ‘The Artist’, an ultra-rare 1965 Ford GT40 which is estimated to fetch as much as $3 million, the 1931 Duesenberg Model J Tourster from the collection of John Pascucci, the 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2300B Corto Spider, the 1965 Shelby Mustang GT350 R, and the 1962 Shelby ‘Factory Competition-Speciffication’ Cobra, to name a few.

Dec 30 2012 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

You Are Only As Rich As the Car You Drive

You buy a Ferrari when you want to be somebody. You buy a Lamborghini when you are somebody,” said America’s evergreen icon Frank Sinatra, who counted a 1970 Lamborghini Miura P400S among his fleet of luxury sedans and sports cars.

Now, Manoj Lulla is not much of a ‘do-be-do-be-do’ man, but the Chennai-based businessman sure knows he is a ‘somebody’.

Trouble is there are way too many ‘somebodies’ in post-reforms India—158,000 millionaires to be precise, as per a latest Credit Suisse report. So how do you stand out? Lulla decided to promote his garage: these days he drives his Lamborghini Gallardo home, literally, and parks it in the living room of his Chennai house, where he has made an extension with special track lighting to house the machine.

Well, there are more ways to stand out. Like the one followed by Lulla’s uber-rich brethren in the western part of India: For instance, you can embed the emblem of that other snob king-on-four wheels, Rolls Royce, with pure diamonds. The proud owner of Rolls Royce has got the Spirit of Ecstasy—the emblem—studded with 1,640 real diamonds.

“These are special customers. They are always on the lookout for something exclusive. One of our customers got a special paint created for his car—the specific red he wanted was not part of the colour options we have on offer. Then there is a customer who got the entire veneer in the car studded with mother of pearls. It took us four months to deliver,” says Sharad Kachalia, one of the leading dealers of Rolls Royce, about this extremely high net worth phenomenon.

Diverse Buyers

The craze is now leaving even the age factor behind. One of the new Lamborghini owners is a 16-year-old kid from the outskirts of Mumbai, who, thankfully, utilities the services of a driver.

“The profile of our car buyers shows that awareness and love for Lamborghini cars run deep. With regard to the 16-year-old, we have been assured by the family that he won’t drive till he is legally eligible to drive. We will train him, once he reaches that requisite age,” says Pavan Shetty, head of operations, National Sales Company for Lamborghini in India. Super car are not exactly a prerogative of celebrities and industrialists; the profile of some of the buyers and the places they come from reveal an all-new potential, he says.

“One of our owners lives in a place where there is no proper road to drive,” says Pratik Desai, VP at Exclusive Motors, a dealer of Bentley super-cars.

Boom In Ultra HNI Club

You can imagine the aspiration to own a brand like Bentley. For sure, economic growth is putting money in the hands of people. We have had customers walking into the showroom in the morning and driving out with the car in the evening,” adds Desai.

Wilfried Aulbur, former MD of Mercedes Benz India and now a managing partner at leading consultancy firm Roland Berger, who knows the luxury car market well, is not surprised. “Wealth is distributed across India. Some of them have made money in areas that are not necessarily every day in the newspaper, so you never know how the next Bentley owner may be,” he says.

According to Credit Suisse Research Institute’s Global Wealth Report, the number of millionaires in India stands at 158,000. And this number is likely to jump over 50% to 242,000 by 2017. The report says India has 237,000 members among the top 1% of the global rich club. There are 1,500 ultra-high net worth individuals with estimated wealth of over $50 million (around 700 of them with a net worth of over $100 million)

Widespread Demand

According to industry estimates, the market for super-luxury cars priced at Rs 1-2 crore stood at around 250-300 units in 2011, and the segment is expected to grow at over 50% with as many as eight cars being launched in 2011 and many brands like Aston Martin, Ferrari, Maserati among others setting up base here. About 100 units of super super car like Lamborghini, Maserati, Ferrari and Porsches were sold, besides over 150 units of super-luxury saloons like Rolls Royce and Bentley last year.

“We are getting very good enquiries from Hyderabad, Cochin, Chennai, Bangalore, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Baroda, Ahmedabad; you have some of the tier II-III towns we did not even expect and we hope to close some of this next year as we get more cars for 2013,” says Shetty. He already has 10 bookings on hand.

Aulbur says the overall penetration rate of super-luxury cars in India is still low compared with Russia and other markets. He counts lack of infrastructure and traffic congestion as major impediments. If these are taken care of, the market for luxury cars in India can explode like China did a decade ago, say experts. “It is just a matter of time before the sentiment improves and people start buying again,” adds Desai of Bentley.

1960_ferrari_250_gt_swb_berlinetta_competizione_ewnr7 Dec 28 2012 · 1 comment · Blog · 0

A 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta ‘Competizione’ to lead the RM Auctions Arizona Sale

Irresistible to any serious Ferrari collector; promising thrilling performance and future exhibition acclaim, the 17th of the 72 aluminum-bodied Competizione-specification SWB examples, known as one of the marque’s most prized berlinettas, is now being offered by RM Auctions at its Arizona sale. The 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta ‘Competizione’ by Carrozzeria Scaglietti’ on sale is just four owners from new, and has been exhibited at Pebble Beach, the Quail, and Villa d’Este. Described to be race-ready, this particular example ‘chassis #1905GT’ boasting an incredible provenance and originality has won multiple FCA Platinum awards, and is a recognized example of the rare alloy-bodied SWB. Also known to be one of the world’s most expensive vintage cars, the Ferrari 250 GT SWB is regarded as a grand touring car for really serious road racing. Besides, the auctioneer RM Auctions’ for the likes of astute collectors, will also be offering important, hand-picked selection of the world’s automobiles like the 1935 Cadillac Series 40 convertible featured the movie ‘The Artist’, the 1968 Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 Coupe, 1963 Jaguar E-Type Series I 3.8 Fixed Head Coupe, to name a few. Any of these cars would look great in our Ferrari Themed Garage.

mclaren_automotive_launches_bespoke_luggage_accessories_for_supercar_owners_8ktvi Dec 21 2012 · 1 comment · Blog · 0

McLaren Automotive launches bespoke luggage & accessories for supercar owners

For the likes of the most avid McLaren owners, fans or those most focused on enjoying the thrill of the open road, the British manufacturer of luxury, high-performance super car McLaren Automotive has now launched bespoke merchandise inspired by its highly advanced and lightning-fast road-going super car  MP4-12C. Exclusively available at the McLaren eStore, the versatile range of fashionable products which primarily focuses on the passion of driving, includes a variety of stylish accessories, clothing and high-end luggage-set which has been designed in collaboration with the McLaren Automotive design studio to maximize the 144-litres of space beneath the bonnet of the 12C. Notably, the luggage-set crafted out of carbon-fiber was also included in the special-edition of the 2013 McLaren MP4-12C Spider ‘Volcano Red’ that was the part of the annual Neiman Marcus Christmas Book 2012.

Dec 15 2012 · 1 comment · Blog · 0

Turn Your Car Into An Internet Wireless Hotspot

BMW has launched a 4G LTE hotspot for its cars, giving users high-speed mobile internet on the road.

The device, which works like a router, is designed to give passengers internet access whether using a smartphone, tablet or notebook and can support up to eight devices simultaneously.

It also has a built-in battery pack, meaning that it can be removed from the vehicle and used on the move for up to one hour before recharging.

The device’s range can be adjusted from three meters to up to 10 meters, meaning that the hotspot can stay in the vehicle but users can still access the internet when standing outside of the car.

“The very fast bit rates and extremely low latency mean that an internet connection supported by the BMW Car Hotspot LTE is often even faster than a PC connection in the home,” says Markus Dietz, Project Manager BMW Car Hotspot LTE Development.

Compatible with any new or existing BMW with a BMW telephone docking station, the LTE hotspot works via an LTE-compatible SIM card. Once inserted, each device needs to be registered via an eight-digit code and then it is ready to use.

However, because the LTE Hotspot also supports NFC (Near Field Communication), if a user’s device supports the technology, simply touching it against the hotspot will authenticate it and establish a high-speed internet connection. BMW claims that this is the first time NFC functionality has been offered in a production car.

“‘Plug and play’ is something of an overworked term, but this is the genuine article,” says Markus Dietz.

But maybe the best feature is that although it is designed to work seamlessly with a BMW car, because it can be connected to a vehicle via USB and has an input for an external power supply, the LTE Hotspot could potentially be used with any vehicle.

BMW-M3-DTM-Champion-Edition-3 Dec 12 2012 · 0 comments · Blog · 0

Super Car BMW M3 DTM Champion Edition

After about two decades of absence, the BMW Motorsport division has re-entered the DTM track, and quite successfully so. Bruno Spengler won the driver’s title, and the BMW Team Schnitzer also received a high ranking among teams.

The new BMW M3 DTM Champion Edition was developed specifically to celebrate this success, as a limited edition model with only 54 units scheduled for production. The car features a Frozen Black metallic paint job, matt black wheels, a series of dark chrome elements, and a set of “go faster” stripes that go along the CFRP roof and the trunk lid. The exterior is completed with a number of logos that speak of the car’s origins and source of inspiration.

On the inside, the M3 DTM Champion Edition features black Novillo leather upholstery, heated seats, Alcantara steering wheel, carbon fiber trims, embroidered handbrake, and custom sills with design inspiration from Bruno Spengler’s helmet. Other noteworthy features include the Park Distance Control system, M DCT Drivelogic, Competition package, M Drive, M Driver’s Package, and navigation system.

The new super car will hit the market in February 2013, it will flaunt quite a hefty price tag of €99,000 (about $128,500). Buyers will also receive the possibility to attend the BMW M Fascination Nordschleife driver training course at the Nürburgring.

This car would look great in the Underground Garage!

 

 

Dec 07 2012 · 1 comment · Blog · 0

The New Audi R8 Hyper Black Edition by Anderson

German tuner Andreson took the R8 super car from Audi to a whole new level. They intervened on every level, inside, outside and under the hood. The body kit includes a new front lip spoiler, a new large rear wing and an aggressive rear diffuser. Its new Hyper Black color matches perfectly with the smoked tail lights, the tinted windows  and the 19-inch alloys with carbon fiber accents.

The new Audi R8 Hyper Black Edition also got an ECU remap and a new sport exhaust system which add 63 more horsepower to the 5.3-liter V10 engine and gives it a total of 581 horsepower. Inside, Anderson added some Alcantara, carbon fiber and orange accents. New leather seats are also part of the customization program.

 

1965_ford_gt40_bjwo5 Dec 06 2012 · 2 comments · Blog · 0

Rare 1965 Ford GT40 is estimated to get $3 Million at RM’s Arizona auction

Discerning car collectors now stand a rare opportunity to become one of an elite few to be able to join the distinguished Ford GT40 owner’s club, as a rare 1965 GT40 with chassis No. P/1034 is being offered by RM Auctions. This high-performance British-American sports car originally produced to win long-distance sports car races against Ferrari, and is the winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans for 4 consecutive times, is actually the most celebrated and highly sought after in collector circles. Finished in Pine Green color, this ultra-rare Ford GT40 that actually revolutionized America’s stance in the  supercar segment is expected to fetch as much as $3 million at the RM auction scheduled to be held on January 18th in Phoenix, Arizona. However, auctioneer RM Auctions’ at its Monterey Auction also earlier offered two rare Ford GT40 racing cars, including a remarkable 1968 Ford GT40 Gulf/Mirage Lightweight racing car with chassis P/1074, which went on to sell for a record $11 million price to become the most expensive American car sold at auction.