Car Travel

Insider: 15 Solid Reasons to Bike Your Way Around!

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One of the most special things that you can do with your time is to go on a road trip. Taking the time to go out and see the world on your terms and at your pace is important, especially if you want to make memories and really build on something important for your future. Whether you go it alone or you go with friends, going on a long trip takes a lot of planning and preparation. You have to be ready for everything, prepared for anything and you want to think about why you should be going on this …

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Safe Travels: How to Become a Better Driver for Road Trips

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If you’re here, you’re someone who loves to drive. Whether it’s your reliable family vehicle or your prized classic car, the idea of getting out onto the road and just driving is your way of cooling off and finding your happy place, no matter where that might be.  But, it doesn’t matter if you’ve been driving for a month or a lifetime, you might not be as good of a driver as you think you are. Once people pass driving exams, they find it too easy to fall into bad habits. While you think you’re in control, these bad habits …

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Learning The Ropes On And Off The Track, We Spend A Day At BMW’s Performance Center West

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Growing up as a kid, I always had a solid drive to learn new things, which helped me be very adaptable in various aspects of my life and allowed me to participate in a multitude of roles during the first few years of my time in the working world. That would later extend to my press career, where I learned to hone my driving skills. But something always seemed to be missing, like the critical piece in a Lego set needed to complete whatever model one is working on completing. To help fill that proverbial void, I traveled to BMW’s …

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Bentley Motors at Pebble Beach Concours 2021 Villa and Concept Lawn

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Bentley brought a powerhouse fleet to their Pebble Beach Villas in 2021! We even get a look at the Bacalar concept from the concours lawn.  Aside from the bubble canopy in back it looks fairly production-ready in its details.  The new Flying Spurs and Conti GT’s are also very very appealing.  After you enjoy this 50-photo gallery shot by JC, read some our full drive reviews of Bentleys over here.    Gallery – Bentley Motors at their Pebble Beach Villa and the Concours Concept Lawn   Road Test Review – 2021 Bentley Bentayga – A Nip And A Tuck For …

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Pebble Beach 2021 – Genesis X Concept Gallery

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This sexy design from Genesis embellishes the look of the upcoming G70 production car — a fave around here — with a mean widebody stance and some BMW Batmobile 635CSi vibes.   This two-door’s tail is a thing of beauty in itself and the entire design’s proportions and details are dramatic and sexy.   The roofline looks a bit practical versus the hypercars this Genesis X sits among at the Pebble Concept Lawn but this EV is still a stunner nonetheless. Photos by James Crabtree 2021 Genesis X Concept – Pebble Beach Gallery

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Auto Industry Insider: How to Make Your RV Feel Like Home

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RVs are meant to be like a home away from home, but they don’t always feel like it. A regular RV will usually have a very simple interior design that might not fit your personality or taste. It’s your job to transform that RV and make it feel comfortable. Thankfully, there are some simple things that anyone can do to make their RV better, and somewhere you’ll look forward to lounging and sleeping in. Here are a few tips to personalise your RV and make it feel like a second home. Decorate the Walls If you walk around your house, …

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Insider: Tips for Starting a Successful Car Collection

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There are lots of things that you may want to collect in your life. Some people will collect toys, others ornaments. It might not be the most obvious collection to start, but, if you are looking for a collection that is definitely a little more on the luxurious side, then you can start a car collection. Do you dream of a car collection of your own? If you do, but you are not sure exactly where to start, then we have the helping hand that you may need. To ensure that your collection gets off to the right start, we …

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2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road – Off-Pavement Drive Review – By Matt Barnes

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The RAV4 is a tent-pole for Toyota USA with nearly half a million sales in 2019 and as the top-selling SUV in the United States. The RAV4 was updated in 2019 to be better in almost every way. Toyota moved away from the bland styling of yesteryear to create a more athletic and polarizing vehicle with more Tacoma and 4Runner design cues. Toyota is offering a new trim level for the RAV4, the TRD Off-Road for 2020 to match this newly masculine and athletic theme. On-Road For on road driving, the TRD Off-Road handles similarly to all other RAV4’s we’ve …

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Insider: Long Road Trip Ahead? It’s Time To Stock Up Right

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Do you enjoy driving for long periods of time? Maybe you love the concept of a road trip, or maybe you shudder at the thought of being inside a moving car for more than 10 hours at a time? Either way, we all have road trips to go on in our life times, seeing as the car is one of the most accessible and easiest ways to travel, and knowing how to pull a road trip off without a hitch is key. How do you make sure you’re sitting comfortably for hours on end? Do you know where to stop …

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2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited AWD – First Drive Review Video + Mega Gallery

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Lots of Palisade love this summer! You can really tell how seriously Hyundai is taking this full-size SUV launch by the media events scheduled on its behalf. Instead of one major media drive with an ultra exclusive invite list, Hyundai did a Palisade road show and had at least five of them across the country.  Presentations from the product teams and great roads to try out this three-row biggie’s capabilities. The one we attended was in Asheville North Carolina, a short jump inland from CRD HQ in Charleston, SC.  But years in the ‘lowcountry’ made me forget all about hills …

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Scalpel or Hammer?

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2019 Acura NSX vs 2019 Dodge Challenger Hellcat Redeye If you’re like me, you might be anticipating a major life phase change. And as a car person, likely the next thing on your mind will be how this might positively affect your future stable. My current phase is one of “peak college”, let’s call it. Come autumn, three of my offspring will be chasing higher education. The title of this post does not represent which of my kids are shooting to become a doctor and which are aiming for trade school. But, instead, which car might anyone in anticipating that …

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2018 Morgan 3.7 Roadster – Gallery at Amelia Island Concours 2019

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Who knew that gloss black would look as good on some old-school wire wheels as it does on modern five-spoke alloys! This Morgan Roadster at Amelia Concours was a sight to behold – even sitting among its more powerful or more three-wheeled siblings in the Morgan range. Calling this the Morgan Roadster might seem slightly silly: aren’t they all roadsters, you might ask? That is besides the point. This is the V6 Roadster whose 5-second sprint to 60-mph and 140-mph top speed are perhaps the ideal performance levels for most shoppers.  Fast and fun with a 3.7-liter motor making 280HP, …

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1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia Type 1 Concept – Amelia Concours 2019

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It was delightful to have the classic VW class this year at the Amelia Island Concours. Among the notable Vee-Dubs was this rarely-seen 1965 concept for the second-generation Karmann Ghia. Ghia styling studio assigned the project to an up-and-comer named Giorgetto Giugiaro — and the resulting design was decades ahead of its time. From the curvi-linear surfaces to the flush-mounted lighting, this Karmann Ghia must have looked positively bizarre versus the teacup shape of the original. But there was genius in this design, albeit perhaps too futuristic to be viable. Favorite elements include the sleek roofline, targa top and very …

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Insider: What To Get A Car Lover Who Has Everything

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Christmas is fast approaching which means that now is the time to start thinking about gifts for loved ones. If you are looking to get something for a car lover who seems that have everything that they need then it can be difficult to know what to buy as you will want to get something that they genuinely like and appreciate. Car enthusiasts can often be difficult to buy for particularly when they are fussy or have every gadget under the sun, but there are a few gift ideas which they are sure to enjoy and will be relevant to …

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The Best States to Own a Car In

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You can own a car in any state in the country, but some places are better than others when it comes to car ownership. If you’re thinking of moving shortly, you may be wondering about the best states to own a car in. Here’s our list of the seven best states for purchasing a vehicle, ranked from lowest to highest. 7. Oregon The Pacific Northwest is a beautiful place if you don’t mind some cold weather. Oregon, in particular, is a great place for car owners — especially if you’re purchasing a new or new-to-you car. Purchasing fees and taxes …

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2019 McLaren SENNA GTR – Best of Goodwood Festival of Speed 2018

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The McLaren Senna is already such an insanely aggressive and unique new hypercar.  Its looks instantly make the entire Lambo and Ferrari lineups seem hopelessly dated. The raw energy from these sliced and diced panels hardly needed a racing upfit.  But here we are. This Senna GTR is absolutely shocking in its design brutality. The functional nature of the aero additions are makes them even more interesting and beautiful to the eye. Check out this nose — not just the usual surfboard chin splitter here, oh no. What they’ve done is remove any air-blocking flat surfaces from the nose.  What …

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Design Analysis – 2018 BMW M8 Concept GranCoupe – Goodwood FoS 2018

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BMW needs some new halo vehicles at the top of its lineup.  Both to compete with the rockstar AMG GT as well as subdue all the M-car loyalists who despise the i8. The new 8 series serves that purpose nicely. And before it has even arrived — we have a new variant with totally unique styling and details. Oh, and two extra doors.  The M8 GranCoupe concept tries to keep the Mustang-like raciness of the 850’s roofline while squeezing in two seats back there.  Headroom!?  Who cares! How is this different than the current M6 GC, you ask? Scale. This …

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Insider: Preparing Your Car For The Ultimate Road Trip

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One smart and fun way to travel to the destination of your choice is to go on a road trip. Plan a fun weekend or week away with your friends or family members and enjoy all the satisfaction that comes with being in control of your travel plans. What you’ll want to do is make sure your car is in good condition and ready to go if you’re the driver. Don’t leave anything up to chance when you’re going long distances with other people. Prepare in advance and then sit back and have a good time exploring different locations and …

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Insider: Top Tips for Long Distance Driving

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If you are planning on taking a long road trip, then there are some important tips that you need to know before you travel. As well as the usual packing and preparing the car, you also need to make sure that you are prepared for the drive. It isn’t the same as driving around town; there are other dangers that you need to consider before you start. Here are some tips to keep yourself safe while taking a long drive. Save Up on Your Sleep One of the most dangerous situations when driving long distance is tiredness. Research has shown …

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2018 INFINITI Q Inspiration Concept – Photo & Video Flyaround

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The Infiniti Q Inspiration Concept is not an instant love-at-first-sight type of machine. Its Tesla overtones are quite obvious.  And not always for the best. The white front grille and the ultra rounded fenders do come to life in person.  The grille is not just a slat shield but a 4D bending thing of great beauty.  Check out the new depth on the Infiniti badge up front — directly off the Prototype 9 open-wheel EV racer in the background of tna few of these shots. And as smooth and dolphin-like as the tail is… keep an eye on the upper …

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2019 Aston Martin VANTAGE – Photo Flyaround w/ LEDs Lit

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  The shockingly sexy new V8 Vantage was easily one of the stand-out stars at the Amelia Island 2018 Concours. This gorgeous new nose, sweeping panel surfaces and taut, tight tail end.  Wisps of a bent LED lightbar in back will make grown men weak in the knees.  The tail is even more impressive beside the brand-new DB11 Volante parked nearby.  This is future-sexy and Vantage has it nailed. 2019 Aston Martin VANTAGE

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2018 Mercedes-AMG Project ONE – Amelia Island Concours 2018 Photoset

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The AMG Project ONE has an undeniable magic in the flesh that is absent in most photography. The slinky, almost formless nature of the bodywork is actually a pure, emotive skin wrapped tight around each wheelhouse like cheekbones.  A supermodel of a machine if there ever was one. The dimensions alone are damn near Chiron large, for one, but the cabin tucked inboard radically too.  A lower than low roof and snorkel intake up top are almost casual in their hardcore obviousness. Watching the car arrive silently was quite a spectacle indeed.  Project ONE is a star! Even with its …

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2017 Lexus RC-F – Road Test Review – Introducing Jesus R. Garcia

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I’m Thankful for Sports Cars Having a two-door luxury sports coupe for Thanksgiving can give anyone a lot to be thankful for. Especially when the coupe in question is the 2017 Lexus RC F; a V8 powered Japanese GT car with some serious attitude underneath its sleek and professional exterior. I had two weeks to get well acquainted with this car. Compared to the last Lexus vehicle I tested, 2017 Lexus IS 200t, this was the other end of the spectrum. Interior This was the first car I drove that had carbon fiber, suede, and leather surrounding the interior. Thanks …

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Insider: Five Ideas for Racing-Themed Vacations

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Do you arrange your weekends around every televised NASCAR, IndyCar, Formula One or FIA World Endurance Championship race? Is your idea of a fun day out obsessing over every car at the car show or heading out to your local track to watch the drag races? If you live and breathe cars and racing, then it should also be a no-brainer to theme your next vacation around your passion. Here are five ideas for planning an amazing racing-themed getaway. 1. Get in on the Action Why watch from the sidelines when you can jump into the fray? Many drag tracks …

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2018 Bugatti CHIRON Headlines RM Sotheby’s 2017 New York Icons [33 Photos]

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Imagine having a Chiron. Not in 18 months.  Or even three months. Now.  This week! That is how the new owner of this never-register Bugatti Chiron will feel in NYC at Rm Sotheby’s 2017 Icons auction. No word on who this original orderer was.  The Chiron’s exact color shades are not shared, but it is black on black with red accents.  The red stripe wraps the C-shaped door intake and then sweeps around the nose. The vehicle comes with an extra rear bumper in crate that meets US road specs.  Fitted is the slightly slimmer world-export-spec rear bumper. Pricing is …

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1937 Ford Yellowstone Park Tour Bus by Bender – 2017 RM Hershey Curio

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Nothing beats a ragtop vintage tourbus for kitsch appeal!  Sentimentality galore imagining so many thousands of happy families exploring the US National Park System for the first time.  Yellowstone was the first park to be designated — and is enormous to behold.  Great to have such roomy seating, big windows and of course that open roof.  Open to big blue skies all day and starry heavens at night.  And the doors!  The entire passenger side of the bus opens with quadruple limo exits. The delightfully Art Deco touches of this bus’s design are what make it a real showstopper.  Here’s …

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ALFA-ROMEO Wine & Cheese at Folktale Winery – Monterey Car Week 2017

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Does Pebble Beach feel like eons ago?  Less than a week since $300-million in cars were sold at auction.  And about the same value of collectibles driving all around town. Alfa Romeo had a strong presence at 2017 Monterey Car Week.  Always a favorite on the lawn on Sunday, the brand is now heavily promoting their new Stelvio SUV and Giulia sport sedan. Both have pricing from about $50k and look a million times more special than their BMW rivals. Here are a few dozen of our favorite Alfa Romeos from Pebble Beach and beyond.  Special access to a Stelvio …

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2017 Pebble Beach Concours – CONCEPT LAWN

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Wish you could take a slow walk around this practice putting green at the Pebble Beach Ritz? You are not alone! We have a terrific class of 2017 to show — including a few world premieres!  The Infiniti Prototype 9 and the Maybach Vision 6 are quite something to behold in the flesh. The Concept Z4 is also popular, as is the Fux pink McLaren 720S we’ve been featuring all weekend. A pair of Ford GT and GT40 Le Mans racers bring some real grit to the show, and set the tone for the Acrua ARX-05 racer nicely. Bentley’s gorgeous …

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McLaren VIP Event [118 Photos] M6GT, M7A, 570S Spider, 720S + Longtails

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  This is basically the most McLarens per square mile on Earth.  Pebble Beach in general, yes.  But this exclusive mansion in particular!  Enjoy this mega set of gorgeous Macca’s from CRD pal JC, who is on site for the boostfest! If you get far enough in the gallery below you will even see these badass supercars lined up politely for test drives.  Yes please~! 2017 Pebble Beach – McLaren VIP Villa

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2017 BMW Z4 Concept In 44-Photo Exclusive

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The recent design analysis we wrote up over here about the Z4 yesterday is growing.  Today handling some photo edits for JC I found a bevy of new details in the Z4. Things like the lower slash in front fender are as retro as it gets.  THe rest is sheer modern roadster.  It seems so much wider and shorter than the current Z4 in some photos.  But really this is just a product of all-new overhangs and level of rounded corner on both ends.  It is a softer shape.  But marked by a precious few design lines.  These bring the …

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Best of Pebble Beach – 2017 INFINITI Prototype 9 in 33 New Photos

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Updated 8.22.17 How can we give a Best Of Award already?   The Concours has not even begun yet! In terms of modern OEM exotics and concepts, the Infiniti Prototype 9 is already one of the most memorable and high-impact designs.   Absolutely stunning. High-impact but low volume!  The Prototype 9’s main drawback might be its lack of period combustion engine note….!     A 1940s racer for modern day?  How about one with an all-electric driveline and single-seater cabin? The perfect fit for the world’s most prestigious concours: Pebble Beach. Infiniti just whipped the silk capes off their Prototype …

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2017 Monterey Car Week REVEALS List – Pebble Beach, The Quail & Concorso Italiano

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This is crunchtime for car writers and news junkies alike! America’s Goodwood, aka Pebble Beach, has gone from a concours to an all-out supercar auto show extravaganza.  What we learned on a trip to the event in 2014 is that Monterey Car Week is actually a full week of performance joy!  The classics and icons are peppered throughout the experience, of course, but mainly take center stage on the oceanfront fairway only on Concours Sunday. Until then, there are ride/drive events, VIP receptions, press events and media previews galore at the Quail, Concorso Italiano, RM Sotheby’s in downtown Monterey.. and …

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2017 INFINITI Prototype 9 Makes Retro Pebble Beach Debut

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A 1940s racer for modern day?  How about one with an all-electric driveline and single-seater cabin? The perfect fit for the world’s most prestigious concours: Pebble Beach. Infiniti just whipped the silk capes off their Prototype 9.  And boy will it stop you in your tracks. Even the ‘endless road’ Infiniti badge is expressed artfully.  It now stands proud atop the hood edge like a radiator cap.  The waterfall front grille is slightly tacky on first glance but does make sense.  When viewed directly head-on, the shape of this sunken grille matches the wide jawline of the Q60 sports coupe, …

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2017 Goodwood Festival of Speed – Walkaround Highlights Gallery in 130 Photos

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  CRD pal and all-around bon vivante James Crabtree is back from an amazing visit to the 2017 Goodwood Festival of Speed! All four days meant JC snapped nearly 1000 photos and 100 videos from the epic motoring event.  And best news of all?  He was gracious enough to share them here with us. We selected about 130 of our favorites from his extensive Goodwood experience.  Everything from Lego racers and racecars, to four-seat Morgans, EuroFighter Typhoons, vintage icons and future concepts.  And of course, not two steps without tripping over some high-dollar supercar. The 570S Spider, Aventador S and …

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Goodwood 2017 Festival of Speed – Hillclimb Mega Gallery in 200 Photos

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Goodwood is as glorious as ever this year! It seems like every supercar that matters is at Lord March’s estate – along with thousands of adoring fans. The clear stars of the show are the glorious Ford GT and the Bugatti Chiron. And of course the Lamborghini Centenario and the Aston Martin Vulcan.   Don’t forget the new Pagani Huayra BC. And clearly the McLaren 720S and world-premiere 570S cabrio are worth seeing in action. Don’t forget the fresh-facelifted Maserati GranTurismo or a back-to-back look at the Panamera’s new choice of sedan or wagon bodystyles.  They’re all represented here! Watching …

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2017 Lexus IS350 F Sport RWD – Road Test Review + Performance Drive Video

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The IS350 was a perfect way to hit the roads of CHicago and Wisconsin ahead of a track event the other week. Here is a fun, fast and tactile sport sedan for the ages! Fun because it loves revs and Gs. Fast as its F-Sport induction harmonics encourage floored throttle all the time. Tactile because its steering is alive in your hands.  IS350 F-Sport steering feel has heft like a great sports car, but also a sharp and eagerness to change direction any time.  Any place.  This IS350 pivots like a boss. Just a big soppy lovefest for this car, …

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1971 Bizzarrini 128P Prototype Speedster at Amelia Island Concours [28 Photos]

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    A barchetta speedster as a racecar!?  This car is inspired by the top can-am spyder style LMP1 racecars of its era — all giant wings and scoops galore.  A simple rollbar and twin plexiglass cowls instead of a windshield means this is a helmets-on affair at speed.  The pure definition of street speedster cool! This flowing and curvy design style was the anti-wedge.  Counter-programming versus the sharp Countach and Esprit look, perhaps.  Curvy panel surfaces like these would take decades to go mainstream.   1971 Bizzarrini 128P Prototype

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1957 Fiat-Stanguellini 1200 SPIDER AMERICA [24 Photos]

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  I promise you have never tripped over something so lovely.  This TINY Fiat Stanguellini is even tinier than a doorstop.  Its ultra rounded nosecone/intake is a joyous production version of the rocket/jetage themes in high auto design of the era.  1957 but conceived in the hearts and minds of the world’s car-designers together about 1953.  Tailfins, streamlined aero and UFO-like body shaping. Without advanced CAD-CAM there was no way to know what truly worked in wind tunnels.  So if it looked right, it would fly right was the old adage. This 1200 Spider America flies right.  A bite-sized dream. Is …

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1939 Bentley 4.25-Litre Embiricos Coupe – Amelia Island RM [31 Photos]

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  This Bentley really stops your eye dead on sight.  Teardrop fenders with sharp upper edges?  Pinched, gangster glasshouse?  Suicide doors and fastback tail? What is this! A Bentley true and true, with its bodywork a recreation to one-off Embiricos Coupe specification. From its rounded waterfall of a grille to its sleek tail… we adore this car! Someone else does too.  It sold for $671k at the RM Sotheby’s Amelia Island 2017 auction.   Lot 154 1939 Bentley 4¼-Litre “Embiricos” Coupe Recreation by Bob Petersen Engineering Chassis no. B119MX Engine no. W9BC Sold for $671,000   1939 Bentley 4.25-Litre Embiricos …

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1965 Prince INFINITI R380 – First-Ever USA Show for Porsche-Beating Racer [50 Photos]

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Infiniti has adopted the design and sports credentials of the Prince marque from its glory days of the 1950s and 1960s.  The firm is best known for creating the Skyline and was acquired by Nissan in 1966 — the same year a pair of these stunning, magnificent beasts took one-two in the Japanese Grand Prix.  It was a pride match for the locals in Japan.  Porsche 904s and 906s beating Skyline front-engine racers on Japanese tracks that inspired the entire vehicle.  Mid-engine endurance racer. With a 1964 Brabham spaceframe to start from, the company crafted its ultra-shrieking straight six making 200 …

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2017 Ferrari J50 is Japan-Only Special – Launch Party in 25 Photos

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  Thought the F60 America was Fezza’s only nod to its global regions?  Think again! This new J50 celebrates the marque’s 50th year in the Japanese market.  Based on the 488 GTC, the J50 has unique design touches throughout and a very fresh nose design in particular.  Horizontally-aligned headlights are a big departure from the vertically-oriented lamps Ferrari has employed for its model range in recent years. One thing is sure with these ultra-exclusive specials: resale and collectible cache second to none. Of course, those dreaming of a J50 outside of Japan should note that even an export will still …

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2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature – Road Test Review – By Ben Lewis

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  Is the Mazda CX-9 a Miata for 7? It’s an interesting thing. Used to be, you had needs, you bought a vehicle that fit those needs. Things changed when SUV’s got popular. Suddenly, if you needed a minivan, but didn’t want to be seen in a minivan, you could get something cooler. No more settling. Well, that opened the floodgates. Pickup truck that’s decked out like a luxury sedan? You can get them with more cow on the inside than you can tow on the outside. EV’s that will stomp all over supercars? Here’s your Tesla. Convertible Crossovers? How …

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1994 Bugatti EB110 GT – RM Sothebys Duemila Ruote 2016

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Here is a very extensive collection of four and two-wheelers that will go on the block in Milan late November of 2016.  RM promises 750-plus lots with no reserve — so this is a prime chance to grab some rare collectibles at fairly decent rates. A first favorite?  Obviously this EB110 GT in signature French blue. Duemila Ruote 25-27 November 2016 1994 Bugatti EB110 GT

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Mountain Drive! 2017 FIAT 124 Spider – By Anthony Fongaro

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Colorado is an amazing place to drive! While visiting this great state, I was lucky enough to attend RMDE, or the Rocky Mountain Driving Event. This event had different vehicles from various manufacturers. Part of this event included driving 90 minutes, or 3,000 feet up a mountain. If you couldn’t guess, the car that I drove was a little black Fiat convertible. The car in question was a 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Lusso. Before the drive, I put down the manual convertible top and let the beautiful scenery of Colorado surround me. Then I put the car into gear. And …

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Singer Vehicle Design on Car Revs Daily

David Arnouts Book Review – One More Than 10: Singer and the Porsche 911

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Car Revs Daily: Essential Summer Reading One More Than 10: Singer and the Porsche 911 By David Arnouts   Most will never own a Porsche 911 reimagined by Singer Vehicle Design, but that cruel fact doesn’t mean the masses of enthusiasts, dreamers and Porschephiles can’t own a small piece of the Singer dream. Enter the second of Car Revs Daily Essential Summer Reading, “One More Than 10: Singer and the Porsche 911.” This book, which includes photo documentaries, autobiographies and essays, isn’t your traditional car book. Instead, it’s a backstage pass into the meticulous creation process of the company and its …

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David Arnouts Book Review – The Drive: Custom Cars and Their Builders

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“The Drive: Custom Cars and Their Builders” By David Arnouts   For the first of our Car Revs Daily Essential Summer Reading Collection, we have “The Drive: Custom Cars and Their Builders.” This book is a formidable 400 page publication by German publisher Gestalten. It explores a wide array of vehicles, automotive enthusiasts and their respective cultures across the globe. As far as a book goes, its physical dimensions, weighty heft and matte finish paper are pleasantly tactile and indicative of its high quality. It’s a great conversation starter, whether left on the shelf or out on the coffee table. …

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How To: Host a Classy Car Show in 7 Easy Steps – By Scott Huntington

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  Have you ever thought about holding your own car show? We’re not just talking about having a few of your Facebook Friends meet in a parking lot, we’re talking about putting on a real show that people will want to attend. It takes time, planning, and a lot of enthusiasm, but can be worth it if you pull it off. It can also be a great fundraiser for your company or organization. It’s not impossible to put on your own car show. If you’re planning on it, you’ll want to follow these seven steps: Build Your Blueprint — You …

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First Track Drive – 2016 McLaren 570S Coupe at XtremeXperience (Plus Twin-Camera Video!)

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  The new 570S was the most exciting sight of a day filled with exotic cars from XtremeXperience.  This team travels all over the midwest and east coast of the US making dreams come true with their supercar fleet. So getting fixated on one is not required, especially with their three-car drive special at discounted rates. But fixated, we were.  This 570S is all-new and the cheapest car McLaren has ever made. Yet skim the brochure and their is little to knock the kid brother down from its P1 and 650S siblings. Similar carbon-fiber chassis tub, similar lightweight bodywork and …

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HD Road Test Review – 2016 Ford Mustang GT California Special (w/ Videos!)

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    The Mustang GT Convertible had a hell of a week here at Car-Revs-Daily.com! First we shot photos of the pony-car icon alongside a LaFerrari, then took an epic road trip down to Botany Bay for yet more photos.  And some very exciting full-throttle videos, too! You would do the same when presented with a dream-car, right? This Mustang GT Cali Special is a life-changing vehicle.  One that is so outstandingly fun, sexy and playful that you gladly forgive its autobox spec and slight cowl shake over big bumps. Wind in your hair, V8 bellow in your ears…… is there any …

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2016 Dodge Challenger RT Plum Crazy 18

Plum Crazy 2016 Dodge Challenger R/T – XtremeXperience Wet Track Laps Are Mesmerizing (w/ HD Video!)

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It might seem unlikely to kick off a five-part article series about XtremeXperience supercar track days with the slowest, heaviest car in the pitlane. But anyone who has driven a Challenger R/T… a) in the rain or b) on a racetrack …knows that combining those two is a recipe for white knuckles, at the very least. And more likely, one of two endgames: a crawling pace or a big spin-out into the grass. And perhaps from there into a tire-lined safety fence beside the track. So this experience as the first outing of the day at Atlanta Motorsports Park left …

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1954 SIATA 200CS Balbo Coupe 15

Kiawah 2016 Highlights – 1954 SIATA 200CS Balbo Coupe – Inspired Design and Iconic Beauty

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Here is a vehicle whose beauty is only surpassed by its rarity. The 1954 Siata Torino 200CS. It has the elegance of many Maserati’s, but also the purpose and aeronautical inspiration that made the Aston Martin DB3 and DB4 such hits.  And what is this!?  No cutlines whatsoever in the back bubble fastback?! Hidden headlamps? These might be the second-ever application of pop-up headlights since they made their first aero-inspired appearance in the Cord 810 of the 1930s.  The elegance of a pure, clean upper hood edge would come in vogue by the 1970s, and ride the wave through the …

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Kiawah 2016 Highlights - 1974 DeTomaso Longchamp 15

Kiawah 2016 Highlights – 1974 DeTomaso Longchamp

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Here is a seriously rare exotic that influenced virtually every American car in the 1980s: the DeTomaso Longchamp.  But here’s the key detail: this car is a 1974. The 80s Ford Mustang and even Chevy Caprice likely thought their inspiration was a secret thanks to the Longchamp’s non-imported status. But what about the Volvo 960 and even the Maserati Quattroporte of the 1980s?!  Shameless copies, and now we know the origin of the epoch-defining block styling. DeTomaso’s widebody, rear-drive GT coupe proportions fender details are still stunning in 2016.  As is the massive cabin width and great luxury throughout. Thankyou to …

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Kiawah 2016 – 1911 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost – Video Startup and Walkthrough of Pre-War Lineup

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We started recording just as the Kiawah Concours judges were reviewing this majestic limo, and got to watch the startup!  It chugged for a second then purred into life sounding smooth and very quiet for the era!   Kiawah 2016 – 1911 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost – Video Startup      

1928 AUBURN 8-115 Speedster 4

Kiawah 2016 – 1928 AUBURN 8-115 Speedster

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This Auburn 115 Speedster would have made Jay Gatsby’s yellow Rolls-Royce look like a city bus by comparison.  Just two seats, roadster cockpit with aero windshield in twin planes, plus a boattail rear end that makes its giant hood even more prominent. Fast has a mascot in the roaring twenties, and it was this Auburn.   Kiawah 2016 – 1928 AUBURN 8-115 Speedster

1919 Pierce-Arrow 66A-4 Owned by Fatty Arbuckle 6

Kiawah 2016 – 1919 Pierce-Arrow 66A-4 Owned by Fatty Arbuckle

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Imagine the showiest hypercar in the world, driven by the world’s biggest movie star. Then flash back 100 years. The owner was Fatty Arbuckle and his Pierce-Arrow was just as gigantic as the Hollywood legend himself. In the flesh, this machine is absolutely gigantic.  It looks like it could swat Model T’s off the road without breaking a sweat.  Its creme tires are a delight, too. 1919 Pierce-Arrow 66A-4 Owned by Fatty Arbuckle

Kiawah 2016 Highlights – 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder – Ingram Collection

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An authenticity check is very helpful before falling in love with the first 550 Spyder you find out in the real world! And once you find that original, you have to drink in its details throughout.  Smoother than a porcelain lion-claw bathtub, with aircraft rivets throughout its cabin and even lightweight drilled mechanicals.  Check out that handbrake!  The holes reduced its total weight. The carved-out rear decklid is perhaps just as striking as the vehicle’s tiny size.  Between the semi-sharp rear fender-tops, the rear metal sinks deep and low to the ground.  Stunning. Kiawah 2016 Highlights – 1955 Porsche 550 …

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Kiawah Concours 2016 - 1990 Jaguar R9R aka XJR-15 10

Kiawah Concours 2016 – 1990 Jaguar R9R aka XJR-15

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This R9R Jaguar looks absolutely current next to cars 25 years younger. That might be the vehicle’s huge achievment over the XJ220 that would follow this 50-unit special’s production run in the early 1990s. The XJR-15 as shown here also delivered on some goals the XJ220 could not.  Primarily, running a 450HP V12 midship, while the XJ220 reverted to a turbo six after the big 12-cylinder could not be fit in its giant tail section, somehow. Kiawah Concours 2016 – 1990 Jaguar R9R aka XJR-15  

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 12

Kiawah 2016 Highlights – 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 – Photo Flyaround

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We wouldn’t normally include a midsize crossover in the mix of concours hits out of Kiawah Island 2016.  But the GLC is a real fave: real-drive, low-roof stance and air suspension available. This fairly mainstream trimline runs a 2.0-liter turbo four making 241HP and 273 pound-feet of torque to the back wheels.  A nine-speed auto and a $39k base price make this a very tempting new option for buyers.  No LED headlights or posh DRLs for this $47k example with its 19-inch wheels and other options, though. Kiawah 2016 Highlights – 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 – Photo Flyaround

Travel Adventures – 2016 Ford Mustang GT California Special Visits Botany Bay, SC (+Video, 50 Photos)

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Any list of great drive adventures on the East Coast should include Botany Bay.  This special nature preserve in Edisto Beach South Carolina offers stunning old Oak trees and curvey roads from start to finish. The property is free to enter, with a parking area a few miles in at the tital marsh and dunes.  Then the action happens for most visitors: you stroll a boardwalk to a beach that is absolutely frozen in time.  It is completely original, with hundreds of trees in the sands. The backstory of the property traces to the Seabrook family’s Sea Cloud plantation.  Construction started …

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RM Monaco 2016 - 1971 March 711 F1 Car 8

RM Monaco 2016 – 1971 March 711 F1 Car – Scored Second-Place in Monaco Gran Prix

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What March lacks today in brand recognition, it more than made up for in its prime via engineering brilliance. You even get that sense looking at this F1 racer today.  Its aero is intense, but not a defining element of the car.  The glory in the March 711 would be mostly left to driver skill.  Massive rubber all around was the key to rapid corner exits for this car, much more than its primitive wings in the nose and tail.  The oval aero plane in front earned the nickname Spitfire as well as ‘tea tray’ out on the GP circuit. While …

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RM Monaco 2016 – 1969 MG MGC GTS Sebring

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Generally speaking, the more acronyms after a car’s name the better. It usually means it is some rare, high-performance variant that may or may not have even been road-legal. And the best possible indication that speed is a sure thing?   If that long name ends with a famous racetrack! Think 599 GTB Fiorano, 365GTB/4 Daytona… This MGC GTS Sebring is the most intense MG we’ve ever laid eyes on!  The black and gold livery is lovely, as is the widebody, wide rubber and wide-open throttle in this featherweight slugger.   1969 MG MGC GTS Sebring RM Sotheby’s Monaco 14 …

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1993 Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato 11

RM Monaco 2016 – 1993 Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato

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The Roadster Zagato is perhaps even more unique and special than its SZ (Sprint Zagato) hardtop sibling!  The styling is truly otherworldly for a production model.  Performance was pretty brisk, too.  A 210HP V6 drove the back wheels via a five-speed transaxle, ensuring good traction and weight distribution. 1993 Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato RM Sotheby’s Monaco 14 May 2016 1993 Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato Without Reserve Chassis no. ZAR16200003002164 Serial no. 145 Engine no. AK5150100138 Photo Credit: Tim Scott ©2016 Courtesy of RM Sotheby’s Type ES-30. 210 bhp, 2,959 cc DOHC V-6 engine with electronic fuel injection, five-speed …

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1965 Fiat 600 Multipla 1

RM Monaco 2016 – 1965 Fiat 600 Multipla – First 7-Seat Minivan?

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No reserve for the auction of this delightful Fiat Multipla in cobalt blue over white. The origins of the minivan are widely debated, but this three-row machine is damn close to nailing the template.  Albeit with rear-engine, rear-drive layout.  That engine in the trunk would be a godsend for summer vacations — where a front-engine car’s tremendous heat would have the cabin near-boiling after a few hours on the autostrada. 1965 Fiat 600 Multipla RM Sotheby’s Monaco 14 May 2016 1965 Fiat 600 Multipla Without Reserve Chassis no. 100D.108 126736 Engine no. 100D.008 4541 Photo Credit: Tim Scott ©2016 Courtesy …

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Camden Thrasher Interview 6

Behind the Lens with Camden Thrasher! David Arnouts Interviews Famous Race Photog

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Race Photographer Camden Thrasher tells CRD’s David Arnouts about all the blood, sweat and tears that go into capturing iconic motorsport moments.   Question: You’ve just recently wrapped up Sebring, how is the excitement for the season building up? Personally is there anything specific you enjoyed most about the race? Thrasher: I’m a big fan of endurance events, especially ones with great racing like the Daytona finish for Corvette Racing, then followed up by the competition in Sebring; it’s a great way to start the season. To actually be there, to experience it, and shoot (photos of) it is awesome. Even cooler is …

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1965 Porsche 911 Art Car 007 By Peter Klasen 22

RM Monaco 2016 – 1965 Porsche 911 Art Car 007 By Peter Klasen

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Vivid airbrushing, wild colors and a vaguely sexualized — yet also high-tech and militaristic — themes pop from every side of this 1965 Porsche 911. The one-off art car will cross the block in Monaco, celebrating Peter Klasen’s remarkable career as an artist since his birth in 1935. The 007 911 will not be to everyone’s taste, and has a strong late-80s vibe to some of its imagery.  The importance and originality of this piece as rolling artwork, however, should still see at least a $300k premium over a similar 911 from this era.  The race-prep seats, bodywork and roll …

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2016 Jaguar XJ Carves $3B China Skyroad in Plush, Superlux Fashion!

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Who loves grand infrastructure projects? We all do, on some level. But the engineering, cost and sheer complexity of many mountain road projects make them cost-prohibitive for all but the grandest planners. Luckily, China and Jaguar are both chock full of the passion and budget to innovate. In the case of the Paxi Expressway in the Sichuan province, this meant building a modern expressway through mountain passes that have been limited to rural, often-unpaved hiking trails for the last 3000 years.  Since 2010, though, the infusion of a million man-hours of prep, and perhaps a billion hours of collective labor, …

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1961 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I Works Rally 9

RM Monaco 2016 – 1961 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I Works Rally

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  You are a rare, delicate flower.  Yes.  This is widely known. But you are nowhere near as rare — or well-preserved! — as this rally-winning Austin Healey 3000! =] RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1961 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I Works Rally

RM Monaco 2016 – 1928 Bugatti Type 40 Boattail Speedster

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It is hard to fathom sometimes that cars like this are sitting quietly in wealthy garages around the world.  Museum-quality icon or 1993 Mercury Sable?  Which shall we drive today, honey? RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1928 Bugatti Type 40 Boattail Speedster

1977 Chevron B36 1

RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 Chevron B36 LMP1 Spider

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This was the magnificent time in top-drawer auto racing where the wedge came to life. Sideways on track, spitting flames from their open rear ends! It was intuitive, low-tech aero.  But race-proven and glorious to behold, then as now. The LMP1 and SPider descriptors above are ours – the car actually competed in primarily North American Can-Am races, we believe.  But the sentiment and bleeding-edge tech certainly makes it LeMans worthy — whatever the classes were dubbed in 1977. RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 …

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RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 MV Agusta 750S America

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This is beyond even the rush of speed, the sun in your face and a mechanical symphony down below.  This MV Augusta 750S America has crossed over — into true art.  It may be recalled as one of the purest expressions in all of 20th-century design and engineering.   RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 MV Agusta 750S America

RM Monaco 2016 - 2004 Aston Martin DB AR1 by Zagato 11

RM Monaco 2016 – 2004 Aston Martin DB AR1 by Zagato

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There are no words deeper than this Beluga black Aston DB AR1.   RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ 2004 Aston Martin DB AR1 by Zagato

1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 1 Group B 1

RM Monaco 2016 – 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 1 Group B

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Fabulous Pug and beautiful livery — this may be a top earner for all-time Peugeots at auction.   RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 1 Group B

RM Monaco 2016 - 1982 Renault 5 Turbo Group 4 Rally Car 10

RM Monaco 2016 – 1982 Renault 5 Turbo Group 4 Rally Car

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No, we do not just put together these auction pieces when too distracted or tired to write up a full piece. And we resent the implication! Okay, there might be some truth to that.  But these cars are special enough to warrant a post– with or without color commentary.. RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1982 Renault 5 Turbo Group 4 Rally Car

Fast & Amorous! Michelle Rodriguez Roars Past 200MPH in F-Type

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An endless road?  Check. Helicopter with steady-cams, and team of thirty to run shadow drones and other AV?  Check. 200-mph Jaguar SVR flagship?  Check. Beautiful tomboy actor Michelle Rodriguez at the wheel, delivering real-time whoops and joyous hollers?  Check. Annnnddd… Action!   Watching Michelle’s face light up as she feels how spectacular the F-Type is?  She clearly loves the car.   Capturing that is movie magic, people! The funny thing about this big-budget shoot is that the SVR and F-Type R are sooo, sooo fast…. anyone really could do this in real life.  With the right closed-road conditions… 201-mph in the F-Type R …

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Road Test Review – 2016 Ferrari California T

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Any chance to drive an all-new Ferrari is enough for an epic day off.  What fantastic fortune! The 2016 California T is the facelifted and engine-swapped update of Modena’s only 2+2 cabrio.  Its $205k base price actually makes it the cheapest model in the 488, F12 and GTC4Lusso range. The numbers and noise coming from the twin-turbo 3.9-liter V8’s quad central pipes are definitely not entry-level, however! The new turbo drivetrain definitely delivers warp speed… but in a slightly delayed way that betrays this car’s split soul. Love-at-first-drive in the Ferrari California T? Sadly, no. Let’s find out why this car’s conflicted …

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2016 Ferrari California T – Deserto Rosso

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Ferrari presents a new video and photo tribute to the vast mountains of sand in the Middle East with this glamourous new Cali Turbo video! It is a stark reminder of the natural beauty of the landscape, and its unique nature versus anywhere else on Earth. And also a great reminder of the new California’s beauty and potent performance…! These cars may or may not include the new Handling Speciale package, but look like they are having a ball outside Dubai regardless!     https://youtu.be/xzOQpOGD1YU   2016 Ferrari California T – Deserto Rosso Ferrari Reveals Deserto Rosso Ferrari Pays Tribute …

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1951 Ferrari 340 America Barchetta by Touring (RHD) 18

1951 Ferrari 340 America Barchetta by Touring – Surviving RHD LeMans Racer Shows Humble Origins

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How far Ferrari has come! What started out with a genius 2.0-liter V12 engine that was ultra compact yet also super powerful.  The engine roared its way to the top of the racing world by the end of the 1950s, and on to a 5-billion-dollar IPO for just a slim minority of the firm’s shares in 2015?   Now a global luxury juggernaut with brand recognition to rival Coca-Cola, and desirability up there with Apple? Yes to all.  And quite a rare display of modesty and humility from Ferrari. It is intriguing to see how basic and workmanlike the first few …

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1956 Austin-Healey 100M Le Mans Speedster in Left Hand Drive 1

1956 Austin-Healey 100M Le Mans Speedster in Left Hand Drive

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Undoubtedly the sexiest Austin Healey we’ve even seen! This 100M Le Mans special was developed by the factory in response to a strong finish in the 24-hour race a few years prior.  This 640-unit special wore an upgraded body with hood louvres, a slimline adjustable-rake windshield and special engine/suspension upgrades. This very rare left-hand drive example was solid in Ohio in 1956, and had a full restoration in the last decade. 1956 Austin-Healey 100M Le Mans Speedster RM Sotheby’s Amelia Island 2016 Lot 175 1956 Austin-Healey 100 M ‘Le Mans’ To be auctioned on Saturday, March 12, 2016 Without Reserve …

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Classic Icons Gallery – 1971 RANGE ROVER and 1970 RR Prototype – On Safari in Morocco

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While shamelessly photoshopping the life out of (and in to) numerous vehicles… it is good to get a sense of our roots. Range Rover SuperSport   Classic Icons Gallery – 1971 RANGE ROVER and 1970 RR Prototype – On Safari in Morocco

2016 Citroen C4 CACTUS Rip Curl Edition – Dark Detailing, GripControl + Glass Roof for Surfer Special

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Here is a pretty cool special-edition that Citroen is bringing to Geneva 2016: the C4 Cactus Rip Curl Edition. This light cosmetic makeover darkens the looks of this funky lifestyle-mobile, adds some funky graphics to the bodysides, and includes the best standard-equipment like a panoramic glass roof and other goodies. But how, one might ask, will a front-drive crossover be the right vehicle for a surf trip? Well, even without AWD or 4×4, the C4 Cactus Rip Curl hopes to park comfortably right on the beach.  Standard mud/snow tires join forces with a new GripControl ESP system that enables more slip …

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Range Rover Autobiography Helps Christen VIRGIN GALACTIC SS2 Unity

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The revised SpaceShipTwo from Virgin Galactic made its debut this week — towed into the glamorous launch ceremony by none other than the best 4×4-by-far! The Range Rover Autobiography is a dashingly tiny vehicle versus this rocket-powered space plane.  Towing in such a gigantic aircraft is a great showcase of the Rangie’s 7700-pound max tow rating. Speeds were considerably lower here than normal highway towing…. but there is no better-looking trailer… in the universe!   Range Rover Autobiography – Virgin Galactic SS2 Unity RANGE ROVER HELPS UNVEIL NEW VIRGIN GALACTIC SPACESHIPTWO AT GLOBAL REVEAL AND NAMING CEREMONY 19/02/16   – Land …

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rELAX yOUR jAW! DS VIRGIN Scores First SeXY ePRIX Win! Formula E Action GIFs + Private Track Practice Video

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You got dreams? We got dreams. You got big budget, and passion too? How big? Yes indeed. To both.   Welcome to DS Virgin Racing!     The crew at DS Virgin racing are popping bottles tonight down in Buenos Aires.  Bottles of Dom as well as Deep Woods! Thrilled to welcome Virgin into the racer’s winner’s circle. Upon a scratch to the surface of the new Citroen DS Automobiles racing venture, your scribe found a virtual fountain of youth.  Everything one could ever dream of is available for media-digitization. Hence, the three=hour love affair that is leaving my two …

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Max Verstappen performs during the F1 Showrun at the Hahnenkamm

Got Grip? Red Bull F1 Car On Snowchains Rips Up Tyrol, Austria Ski Slopes

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You really have to stand back and admire Red Bull sometimes. From a category-defining launch product — a carbonated and canned version of a centuries-old Asian ‘shot’ typically slammed ahead of business meetings — the company has become one of the most iconic sports marketing phenomenons in history. These days, you can love Red Bull for its media empire as much as its new sugar-free flavor specials. Every type of sport has a Red Bull tie-in for 2016, but few are as high-profile as the F1 racing team. How to bring some levity and playfulness back to the slightly down-trodden race …

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1964 SHELBY COBRA DAYTONA 78

1964 SHELBY COBRA DAYTONA 24H Coupe – Reborn from 1965 Bonneville World Speed Record-Holder

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Few better ways to kick off the 2016 Daytona 24-Hour race this weekend than to meet one of the all-time greats! The Shelby Cobra Coupe had no official name when it took the grid for this grueling 1964 race — then the fastest in the world.  But being designed and prepped for this track earned the Daytona Coupe its forever name the moment it started leading the race. This car is *exactly* like the Shelby that took the green flag around Daytona, but bowed out after an engine fire. That Daytona Coupe no longer wears the medium blue metallic over …

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2016 Dodge VIPER ACR - Bondurant Black 4

2016 Dodge VIPER ACR – Bondurant Black Mamba

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Updated 1.31.16 Just drove the 2016 Viper GT on track and am still in V10 nirvana. But there is a new king in the Viper range: the road-legal American Club Racer. Seeing the car in person is a jaw-dropping experience — this exterior is the coolest supercar since the TVR Sagaris! Huge new fender vent slashes, a underbody fully shrouded with air channels, and a nose and tail treatment more aggressive than even the wildest tuners can make real. Let alone make for sale as a $20k option! 2016 Dodge VIPER ACR – Bondurant Black 2016 Dodge VIPER ACR PREVIOUS …

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RM Arizona 2016 - 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra DRAGONSNAKE 20

RM Arizona 2016 – 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra DRAGONSNAKE

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Quite a few gorgeous classics included in a row.  These are a bit of a niche interest among readers… we know you guys prefer 2016-2020 models far more than these oldie foldies. Here is one to get you young bucks back onboard: the most successful dragracing Shelby Cobra of all time! Certainly, the Cobra is best known for its circuit racing and international endurance racing prowess. But it turns of the delicate-looking original 289 Cobra was also a world-beater on the dragstrips of the USA. So light, so grippy and so powerful…. literally nothing could keep up with this fuchsia …

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1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special 1

12-Million-Dollar Merc? 1937 540K Special Is Longtail, Highdoor Roadster with 7k Original Miles

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Mercedes Benz 540K’s are some of the most-collectible cars in history.  They are one of the few non-Ferrari marques to clear the $10-million hurdle nearly every time they come up for auction air. This example will be one of the all-time greats for RM Sotheby’s. A long-tail, high-door configuration with left-hand-drive and virtually no miles…. the car is a dream in red silk. What will really seal the obscene price estimates for this car?  Its condition and originality.  Not a re-do — this is the original item.  Proof is just the 7k total miles ever travelled in this straight-eight stunner. …

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1930 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Torpedo Sports by Barker 1

RM Arizona 2016 – 1930 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Torpedo Sports by Barker

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What a lovely theme running through the auction list of RM Sotheby’s Arizona sale — happening today the 29th of January. Boat-tail roadsters from the 1930s are certainly a niche genre — but one that has significant value. Their rarity and beauty and hand-made nature makes these shapes all the more special. The shrouded rear fenders of this Phantom Torpedo are definitely something to write home about. The ultra-tall tires make the design flourish extra complex — but lead to a gorgeous trunkline design as a result.  A tall teardrop element forms the upper edge of the Torpedo’s tail — …

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RM Arizona 2016 – 1932 Ford Model 18 Edsel Ford Speedster

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You can really tell that RM photographer Darin Schnabel fell in love with this steel grey speedster. We did too after seeing is incredible teardrop shape, aero-sculpted fenders and smoothly rounded nose. Favorite element of the design must be the leather inner fenders.  So ingenious and pragmatic — they are touchable pieces of automotive history. 1932 Ford Model 18 Edsel Ford Speedster RM Sotheby’s Arizona 28-29 January 2016 1932 Ford Model 18 Edsel Ford Speedster   Photo Credit: Darin Schnabel ©2016 Courtesy of RM Sothebys 85 bhp, 221 cu. in. Ford flathead V-8 engine with a Stromberg 81 two-barrel carburetor, …

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1939 JAGUAR SS100 2½-Litre Roadster by Van den Plas 6

RM Arizona 2016 – 1939 JAGUAR SS100 Roadster by Van den Plas

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Long before it was shorthanded to the VDP option package, Van den Plas was making their name with stunning vehicles like this SS100. Favorite details in this gorgeous, closed-body art deco coachwork?  How about the insanely ballooned fenders, edged in a thick sheath of chrome all around the lower bodyside. Or that fabulous grille and blinding lights. But the all-time coolest detail?  The almost-nonexistent windshield — presented with no top edge and at an ultra raked angle — for 1939 or today! 1939 JAGUAR SS100 Roadster by Van den Plas RM Sotheby’s Arizona 28-29 January 2016 1939 SS 100 Jaguar …

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1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV 13

RM Arizona 2016 – 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV

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This Miura SuperVeloce is the epitome of cool — and also in crisply clean condition all around. Check out this cabin and the lovely black badges and grilles in back! 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV RM Sotheby’s Arizona 28-29 January 2016 Lot 132 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV by Bertone To be auctioned on Thursday, January 28, 2016 $2,000,000 – $2,400,000 Chassis no. 4912 Engine no. 30673 Photo Credit: Robin Adams ©2015 Courtesy of RM Sotheby’s 385 bhp, 3,929 cc DOHC transverse mid-mounted alloy V-12 engine with four Weber twin-choke carburetors, five-speed manual transmission, independent front and rear suspension with …

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1987 DeTomaso Pantera GT5-S 6

Updated with Live Photos – 1987 DeTomaso Pantera GT5-S

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Updated 1.23.16 Still the best Pantera we have ever seen!  But it could certainly use some love in the paint shop. The contrast between the shimmery gloss black of the bodywork still clashes pretty sharply with the black plastic nose-cone, and flat-black rear bumperlet. ORIGINAL Think what you may about the DeTomaso Pantera from the 1970s. This machine is a totally different beast. Where time and special-edition hell really destroyed the original Countach elegance, the Pantera appears fully revitalized. The car has the presence of a F40, the nose elegance of the Lotus Esprit, yet rear-drive, naturally-aspirated purity to shade …

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2017 Chrysler PACIFICA 23

2017 Chrysler PACIFICA Is All-New Minivan – PHEV Hybrid, Luxury and Tech to Leapfrog Sienna/Odyssey

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Welcome to the next Town & Country: the all-new Pacifica! This name-swap is quite justified when you take a peek at the seriously all-new platform, drivetrain, interior and exterior of the next-gen Chrysler minivan. The impressive details abound from every seat: the seven-seater has a stunningly advanced offering for families from July of this year when the new vans hit showrooms. What is the big deal, beyond a very swish new exterior design? Where to begin!  The biggest news is the first-ever plug-in hybrid offering in the van segment. Dubbed simply the Pacifica Hybrid, the EV tech is quite sophisticated. Not …

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Rally Dakar 2016 Peugeot DKR16 Red Bull 27

DAKAR 2016 – Prologue and First Stage Gallery – Red Bull PEUGEOT-TOTAL DKR16

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Dakar got off to a fairly rough start this year: a big crash canceled the timed events of the Trucks class, while a smaller incident saw the four-time defending champion MINI Countryman careen off the course and injure multiple spectators. Reuters and AP report a father and son were seriously hurt and are in serious condition. The MINI driver was the first female driver from China, and she also sustained injuries.  Initial reports are of a hard jump landing and subsequent loss of control of the vehicle. This was always a very, very dangerous race. And at least these traumatic events …

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1987 DeTomaso Pantera GT5-S – Mecum Kissimmee 2016 Preview

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Think what you may about the DeTomaso Pantera from the 1970s. This machine is a totally different beast. Where time and special-edition hell really destroyed the original Countach elegance, the Pantera appears fully reviatlized. The car has the presence of a F40, the nose elegance of the Lotus Esprit, yet rear-drive, naturally-aspirated purity to shade them all. This particular GT5-S Pantera has led a charmed life: just 7k miles and even the original magnesium extra pair of alloys.  Plus a cabin with plush caramel leathers like a bordello! The estimate for this Pantera GT5-S is $250k, which is stellar value. It …

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Meet the Original Black Swan: The McLaren M1

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Wow. There is a reason you have not seen or heard many of these killer McLaren racecars.  The original McLaren origin story as a driver who starts his own race shop, and sells a few chips of genius to other enthusiasts and race crews. Refined and stiffened over the M1A, the B is one of the most sought-after of its era. Just 28 of these M1B Can-Am cars were sold to be raced in the Can-Am racing series. The North American market was obviously the focus of these races, so the fact that just 28 were ever sold makes this …

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