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Toyota Tundra Summer Camp C/O Bass Pro Shops! Late June – Late July In Texas

The Toyota Tundra Bass Pro Shops Edition is a cool exclusive for Gulf states truck shoppers — pairing much of the TRD Pro’s off-road ability with a classy and exclusive exterior sytle all its own. The BPS Tundra is headed camping this summer with its namesake brand: offering workshops and campsites at a special Bass Pro Shops camp location from late June to late July. The Tundra BPS off-road experience also has events with Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept through the summer — letting camping fans, families and adventurers enjoy great mini-breaks from urban life. The Bass Pro Shops Tundra …

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BMW Art Car Collection Celebrates 40th Anniversary With Fresh Museum Display + World Tour (125 Photos) 117

BMW Art Car Collection Celebrates 40th Anniversary With Fresh Museum Display + World Tour (125 Photos)

Who would have thought that a custom CSL in 1975 would become such a core element of the BMW legacy. 17 models so far have been made over in the BMW Art Car program, with the majority pure racecars — but not all. In fact, each car’s birth is quite a story in itself. The inspirations and visions of the artists involved are as varied as the subjects themselves. But as each car is unique, along with each artist — one core theme comes through from at least half the artists: speed whipping the paint back and up the lines …

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Tuner Showcase – StickerCity Creates 2015 McLaren P1 Black Chrome Art Car

Auto wraps have officially gone high-brow! No longer is a simple color change enough to entertain hypercar owners. Full custom multi-layer wraps are the new vogue. StickerCity of California did this one-off McLaren P1 for a special client — with the results a mesmerizing swirl of color, plus silver and gold flashes of reflectivity. It is very seducitve and original, as we’re sure you will agree. All in a days work at this hot Cali custom shop. This design was a custom creation from one of their in-house designers. But it is not just the look; skilled application is needed …

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2015 Ducati Scrambler In Two Specials: SC-Rumble by VIBRAZIONI and Scrambler by Radikal Chopper

  Two custom Ducati Scramblers are thrumming around Italy this week! The first is called the SC-Rumble and has been custom-commissioned by Ducati and Pirelli by a design boutique called Vibrazioni Art Design. This Scrambler ditches its multi-spoke wheels and entire factory frame in favor of solid-centered wheels and a bespoke, single-piece chassis. This new framework makes the bike far more compact and wield-y and nimble than ever before. From some angles, however, the chopped frame results in a fairly odd, mini-bike-like appearance. Meanwhile, the SC-Rumble’s tank of the bike is wrapped in a rubber coating with tread patterns to …

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2015 BMW Motorrad Concept 101 Is Lux Cruiser

BMW Motorrad’s sales are on an absolute tear in the US and worldwide in recent years. Where to take the brand that dominates the desirability of the entire two-wheeled world? Upward and onward! The highest-margin area of the motorcycle market is for large cruisers. This new Concept 101 takes the BMW riding-pleasure mantra into this huge new area. A bike that surely makes many German minimalists cringe, the Concept 101 is a firm statement of intent. The machine debuted this weekend at the BMW-sponsored Villa d’Este Concours. It is a long-range cruiser with hardshell luggage cases, a relaxed riding position …

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1088HP RIMAC Concept_One eHypercar Nearing Production + Now Raceable in DRIVECLUB

Three massive tech leaps have lowered the barriers to hypercar creation dramatically: — affordable cad-cam and engineering software — small-batch carbon fiber chassis and panel creation — electric propulsion to deliver the power of race-car gasoline engines, but with all companies essentially starting from the same block. Years of experience are no longer (as big of…) an advantage for EV supercars Without any of the above, designing and creating a car from scratch easily required banks of computer servers and million-dollar industrial panel stampers. Therefore, the time is right for startup tech companies all over the world to take the …

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New LED Foglamps for 2015 Berlinetta Lusso by Touring SuperLeggera 8

New LED Foglamps for 2015 Berlinetta Lusso by Touring SuperLeggera

Updated 5.23.15 The Berlinetta Lusso made its concours debut this weekend at Villa d’Este sporting a new grille design integrating twin round LED foglamps. These are a triple LED setup, and look stunning lit with the headlamp’s white DRL accent. Touring Superleggera has pulled back the silk on its latest masterpiece: the Berlinetta Lusso. The Lusso is a full redesign of the Ferrari F12’s exterior, adding a level of timeless sophistication to go with the mechanical brutality of the F12 on full throttle. You may have noted that the latest Ferrari range lacks a super-lux flagship: the place of the …

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2015 ZAGATO Mostro Is Custom Carbon Supercar Aimed at GT3 Drivers

  A very exciting reveal this weekend in Lake Cuomo! Zagato has graced the Villa d’Este COncours with their latest creation: the Mostro powered by Maserati. Honoring ten decades of Maserati Zagato specials and the 1957 ‘Monster’ in particular, this exotic supercar design is being produced and sold to five pre-selected customers. The car is built on a carbon tub with a front-mounted Maserati V8 engine, believed to be the 4.7-liter, dry-sumped screamer from the GranTurismo lineup. Power is sent to the back wheels via a rear-mounted six-speed transaxle. Double wishbones and 19-inch wheels round out the simplistic and race-car-like …

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Shock M6 Concept! 2015 BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage – Design Analysis + Rendered Colorizer

  Brace yourself! BMW’s new concept is going to knock you off your feet. This 2015 BMW CSL Hommage takes the incredible aggression and aero add-on feel of the classic BMW racecars, then integrates much of the layered and detailed look via its swirling CFRP panels. The Hommage is a simply stunning look at the future of BMW’s large coupe — with the track embellishments and GT-R-style machoness almost dripping off the Golf Yellow paintwork. No powertrain details are given, as the focus is really on design for the Concours.   Design Analysis NOSE The nose will dominate many conversations …

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2015 RM Monterey Preview – 2013 Aston Martin ZAGATO DB9 Centennial Spyder

There have been many attempts to drastically alter and update the style of Aston Martin DB9 supercars — many by Aston designers themselves. The most unrecognizable by far, however, was from Zagato. A DBS Centennial Coupe introduced the shockingly blocky redesign from Zagato, showcasing a full-width vertical grille unlike any production Aston. Not a single panel is shared with the production models, with all-new and uber-formal lines changing the proportions and stance of the Aston from a supercar GT into a super-lux cabrio perfect for Monaco. The tail of the Zagato DBS Centennial is even more appealing in its unique …

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Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, G63 6×6 and Unimog U5023 Star in Jurassic World

Update1 – With Selected Photo Credits to Baptiste Coudert It has been almost 20 years since the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class made a silver-screen debut in Jurassic Park 2 in 1997 — best known for spinning all four wheels in reverse while trying to pull a research trailer back from the edge of a cliff. The Mercedes SUV product-placement offensive has continued in the X-Men films and a few other since then, but never with the same action-packed, memorable drama as the ML320 in Jurassic Park: The Lost World. The fact of the matter is that the Mercedes SUVs in movies have …

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2014 Pagani Zonda Revolucion Adds DRS Dynamic Downforce + 50HP for Ultimate Time-Attack Prowess

If the 2009-2010 Pagani Zonda R is shocking in its depth of changes versus the ‘regular’ Zonda, this R-EVO model honors the near-perfection of the original model. Even so, the ‘Evo’ version of any supercar is generally far better. Benefiting from real-world tuning and production tweaks, the Zonda Revolucion is no exception to this rule. Power from the AMG V12 is up to 800 ponies, while the on-track dynamics are massively enhanced by a new Drag Reduction System out back. Controlled via a steering-wheel button, DRS can selectively engage as needed on track, or a two-second push of the button …

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1938 Talbot-Lago T150-C SuperSport Teardrop Coupe by Figoni et Falaschi

Most people will instantly think of the Bugatti Type 57 Atlantique or (Aerolithe) when asked about a gorgeous, art-deck teardrop coupe. But this Talbot-Lago is arguably far more beautiful than even that legendary Bugatti. Named the T150 Competition SuperSport, the car is clearly more than a static showpiece. Eleven of this “New York” body were hand-made by legendary coachbuilders and designers Figoni and Falaschi. So, is it the sexiest Teardrop Coupe ever made? We say yes. Three key reasons for the Talbot-Lago’s lasting and sumptuous beauty topping the Bugatti: — that last, artful bit of finesse in body shaping of …

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Hypercar Heroes – 750HP, 2.7s 2010 PAGANI Zonda R is 7 Minutes in Heaven

No study of hypercar heroes would be complete without the phenomenal Pagani Zonda R from 2009 to 2010. Just 15 examples of this hardcore track machine were produced, with pricing of around $2.5-million each. With typical Pagani thoroughness, the Zonda R’s creation is far more that a set of slick tires and lightweight carpet. As you can see from almost every angle, the Zonda R employs an all-new aerodynamic setup. Giant lower intake scoops and splitter could cut off a pedestrian at the ankles, with the sharp wedge of a carbon-fiber nose an effective cleaver to finish that dark job. …

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2015 Salon Privé at Blenheim Palace – 125-Photo Preview with LaFerrari, Koenigsegg, P1 and 918 Spyder

  Salon Prive is still a few months out, but excitement is already starting to build for the tenth-anniversary of the supercar gala. Think of it as a mix of rolling car show, concours and outdoor festival for those who sweat petrol. A new location at Blenheim Palace is huge news for the car show: this gorgeous castle of a country estate is 300-years of baroque history — living and breathing healthily into 2015. A preview kickoff event recently brought ten extra-special 2015 Salon Prive showcars together to explore the new digs. Thankfully for us far away, a simply *stunning* …

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Hypercar Heroes – 2005 Pagani Zonda S Roadster

Name a car from 2005 that is more desirable today than this Pagani Roadster! This car is one of 25 Zonda Roadsters ever produced, and features a sweet combination: the ultra-rare manual gearbox option and the updated and quicker-revving 7.3-liter V12. Packing more displacement but a lighter weight than the original 7.0-liter AMG units, the Zonda F is still an icon of performance, design and artful beauty ten years after it was first sold. This very car earned about $750,000 when last sold by RM Auctions in London in 2010, but we suspect it might even go for more than …

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Racing Icons Series – 1968 Alfa Romeo T33/2 Daytona Is Legendary Bubble-Top Targa

Part Five of Six – Alfa Romeo Racing Icons Series Welcome to one of the most beautiful racecars of all time: the Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 Daytona. Wearing the fabulous bubble glass windshield of the Periscopo T33, but a long-tail aero treatment and even a targa top — the Daytona is like a dream come true for vintage racecar aficionados. One interesting T33 detail is that the car has none of the imposing and heavy-roof feel of the Porsche 917 or Ford GT40. Where those cars are all giant A-pillars and letterbox visibility, the Alfa is chopped like a speedster …

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Racing Icons Series – 1969 Alfa Romeo T33 Sports Racer

Part Four of Six – Alfa Romeo Racing Icons Series Proof that beauty and open-air thrills are critical elements of a million-dollar sale? Yes indeed! Even with pure-bred racecars like this Sports Racer Tipo 33 from Alfa Romeo, the most important details are often obvious to classic-car shoppers and spectators alike. Even though this Sports Racer was not one of the quickest T33 Alfa’s on the world’s racetracks, it is clearly the most desirable today versus its younger siblings — and arguably more visually sublime than its fabulous hard-top older brothers. The reason for this is clear: there is still …

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Racing Icons Series – 1970 Alfa Romeo TT3 Spider Was Lightweight Short-Tail Special

Part Three of Six – Alfa Romeo Racing Icons Series   1970 saw the Alfa Romeo Tipo 33/3 Spider evolve into a much shorter and much more brutal track attacker. Switchable noses include the lamp-free style shown here. A fairly brutal and chopped style appears at the front and rear of this Alfa racecar, with less of the glamourous design of the Sports Racer 33 that came before it. The changes worked on the racing circuit – with this Spider earning numerous race wins and ranking between Porsche and Ferrari in the top three points for the Le Mans season. …

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Racing Icons Series – 1972 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33TT3 Wears Stunning Batmobile Tailfins

Part Two of Six – Alfa Romeo Racing Icons Series   Here is a fun walk back in time — exploring and celebrating the evolution of the Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 open-air racecars. We’re huge fans of the swoopy and wild designs of the hardtop T33’s from the mid-196os. These advanced prototype racers went head-to-head with legends like the Ford GT40 and the Porsche 908 and 917, among many others. But the legend of the T33 continued well into the 1970s. This open-topped TT3 from 1972 shows a really battle-hardened racing hero. Still wearing its striking Autodelta racing livery and …

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Racing Icons Series – 1975 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33TT12 Made 500HP at 11k RPM!

  Part One of Six – Alfa Romeo Racing Icons Series Here is a fun walk back in time — exploring and celebrating the evolution of the Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 open-air racecars. We’re huge fans of the swoopy and wild designs of the hardtop T33’s from the mid-196os. These advanced prototype racers went head-to-head with legends like the Ford GT40 and the Porsche 908 and 917, among many others. But the legend of the T33 continued well into the 1970s, adapting to new racing rules and new tech innovations to make one of the quickest Alfa Romeo racecars of …

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1973 Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R Kenmeri 5

RM Monterey 2015 Preview – 1973 Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R Kenmeri

Succeeding the first-gen Hakosuka Skyline GT-R was this iconic Ken & Mary (or ‘Kenmeri’ for short) two-door. With a far more workmanlike profile than the same-year 240Z, the 2000 GT-R did all it could mechanically to be a legitimate sports-car. The legend of this upswept C-pillar shape speaks for itself, with this Skyline one of the best-loved Japanese cars ever made. Do not let the completely-original stance fool you into thinking this is just some retro nerd-mobile. With a lowered stance, this Skyline GT-R is instantly recognizable from 1000 paces as a supercar hero.  1973 Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R Kenmeri   …

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1968 Ford GT40 Gulf Mirage Lightweight LM Racecar – Most Valuable American Car Of All Time?

When it comes to racing greats and the all-time automotive hall of fame, this Gulf GT40 is certainly in the top ten. This exact car was the first to win a race wearing the now-legendary Gulf racing livery. Until this GT40 crossed the finish line in first place at Spa, these iconic powder blue and marigold colors were just another racing stripe. This GT40 is also the most valuable American car ever sold at auction, and likely ever made. It is unlikely that any other American car has changed hands privately for a bigger sum. (But is the GT40 even …

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1972 Lamborghini Miura SV 21

RM Amelia Island 2015 – Top 10 Most-Valuable Auction Cars in 80 New Photos

Started this article to share an update on RM Auctions — which you may have noticed is now co-branded as RM Sotheby’s. Just before the Amelia Island 2015 event in March, Sotheby’s announced a 25-percent equity share purchase of RM, based in Blenheim, Ontario. Sotheby’s is in the big three of global auction companies, so their interest in RM makes sense to broaden and co-mingle both buyer groups. RM is certainly a powerhouse of an auction company, with its car sales generating massive interest among collectors and fans alike. Amelia Island 2015 was no different: $60-million in sales in just …

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Mecum Indy 2015 – 1993 Toyota Supra Official Fast Furious Movie Car Seeking $150k+

Movie cars sometimes have a hard life after the filming stops. They have sometimes been abused to the point of no return – with only one or two of the original six-pack of action stars making it to the premiere on four wheels. This 1993 Toyota Supra is the exception. Thanks to fairly gentle use in The Fast and The Furious, this Paul Walker whip survives today in perfect condition. One of one, this Supra is a perfect slice-of-life from the early 2000’s SoCal car scene. The time is right for a big-money sale in 2015, 14 years after the …

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1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SLS Racing + Exclusive SLS-R Speedster Renderings

This is a cool one. As you may know, Mercedes had a spotty record of hanging on to rare classics among the hundreds of models the company has produced. This applies double for the racecars – which are often either lost to track damage or to privateer teams. Either way, gone from the safety of the MB Museum. Such was the case for a pair of American-commissioned racing overhauls to a pair of 1957 300 SL’s. While Mercedes retired from racing for 1956-forward, the SL was still a plum basis for a race-winning track car. A priciple named Jim O’Shea …

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Worlds First Supercar – 1909 Benz 35-60PS Speedster Ran 9-Liter Four-Cylinder!

Betting directionally on the value of supercars is tougher than the stock or art or commodities markets. Where the natural trend for the above indices is to scale upward, most classic cars are generally never going to appreciate over time. This makes car collecting more of a passion play than the normal art auction scene. Long story short: we’re obviously not going to go all in one way or another on future car values. But come on! This car. One of the world’s first supercars, with triple the power and speed of a contemporary Model T? Yes, as Ford rolled …

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Concept Flashback – 2009 Mazda MX-5 Superlight in 88 Photos!

Racers worldwide have made lightening Mazda MX-5’s more than an art or craft: there is a science to shedding grams and gaining pace. This 2009 concept from Mazda’s European R&D center is a serious and comprehensive speedster conversion and custom strip-out. Once totally bare, the full MX-5 Superlight was resprayed in a Japanese Racing white pearl. The color and the contrast details for the hood and double bubble rollbars make the MX-5 Superlight’s proportions even more intensely rear-drive. A favorite detail is the brake light LED lining those integrated roll hoops. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept …

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1947 Cisitalia 202 SMM Nuvolari Spyder 2

1947 Cisitalia 202 SMM Nuvolari Spyder Was Racing Streamliner with Tailfins!

A surviving 1947 Mille Miglia racecar, one of three works vehicles raced that season? Yep. One of less than ten cars in the MOMA New York permanent collection? Yessir. Tail-fins more than a decade before this look would sweep automobile-dom? Mhmm. Stunning. 28 total Nuvolari Spyders are thought to have been produced, so collecting any at less than half a million is a shrewd move. 1947 Cisitalia 202 SMM Nuvolari Spyder   Villa Erba 25 May 2013 Lot 110 1947 Cisitalia 202 SMM ‘Nuvolari’ Spyder by Carrozzeria Garella To be auctioned on Saturday, May 25, 2013 Sold for €425.600 Chassis …

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1929 Bugatti Type 44 Grand Sport Is Straight-8 GP Racer as 4-Seat Ragtop!

Imagine a current F1 car stretched three feet in wheelbase, then fitted with a rudimentary canopy of a roof. Then flash back to 1929. Bugatti 44 Grand Sport. As you can probably tell, we pour over the auction lists of rare and special cars. A list of priceless classics, all sold by the pound and to the mood of the moment. Seeing a 1920’s Bugatti headline is almost a cliche in this rarefied world. Stunning racecar evolution, open-wheeled and potent by the end of the decade. The dream of fans was coming true as well — a LWB chassis with …

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Fast Wagon Classics – 1952 Mercedes-Benz 170VA Panel Wagon and 1954 170SV Ambulance

Finishing out this quick/quirky series of classic wagons with a pair of Mercedes-Benz commercial cars. One a panel van 1952 170VA Station Wagon and the other a LWB 170S-V Ambulance. The 5-door brought in around $75,000 at the RM Auctions London 2013 sale, where the panel van around $60,000.   1952 Mercedes-Benz 170VA Panel Wagon         8-9 September 2013 Lot 126 1952 Mercedes-Benz 170 Va Station Wagon To be auctioned on Sunday, September 8, 2013 Without Reserve Sold for £40,320 Chassis no. 136.074.01413/52 Engine no. 136.923.01602/52   1954 Mercedes-Benz 170SV Ambulance 1954 Mercedes-Benz 170 S-V Ambulance RM …

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Fast Wagon Classics – 1933 Mercedes-Benz 290 Pullman Limousine

If the previous Pullman was a bit too Bond-villain for you in its black on black, here is another really cool example: a SWB 290 Pullman from six years before. This tasty blue example only sold for a third of the price of its LWB cousin: just $50k for this makes it well-bought. 1933 Mercedes-Benz 290 Pullman Limousine London 8-9 September 2013 Lot 173 1933 Mercedes-Benz 290 Pullman Limousine To be auctioned on Sunday, September 8, 2013 Without Reserve Sold for £28,000

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Fast Wagon Classics – 1939 Mercedes-Benz 320 Pullman Limousine

Mercedes-Benz has made many fantastic wagons in its long history, but they hit a sweet spot in the 1930s in terms of perfecting the wagon as a long-distance limo. This black/black LWB Pullman has a huge lounge back seat and even a cloth sunroof to let in the breeze! This car ran a straight six through a four-speed manual transmission, so despite just 77-horsepower the Pullman was happy to cruise up to 85-mph or so — very quick for the time. 1939 Mercedes-Benz 320 Pullman Limousine RM Auctions London 8-9 September 2013 Lot 150 1939 Mercedes-Benz 320 Pullman Limousine To …

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Fast Wagons! 2009 Maserati Bellagio Fastback by Touring Superleggera

The fast wagon is the ultimate in car-guy and car-girl coolness. A low and sleek wagon silhouette is instantly cooler than any SUV, yet still looks the part in the mountains with skis on the roof. As part of a series of articles, we’ll highlight all the coolest estate cars at the train station. Call them what you want. Tourers, Estates, Fastbacks or Station Wagons — they are the ultimate Q-cars. This Maserati Quattroporte was reborn as a wagon via Touring Superleggera in Milan. Four total vehicles were produced, with this one including a special interior with twin adjustable seats, …

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INFINITI Vision GT Makes Real-Life Debut – Headed to Pebble Beach 2015?

Here is some great news from Infiniti! The brand’s Gran Turismo Vision GT car just debuted in Shanghai — at an art museum, naturally. But first: Everyone knows most concept cars never get “made.” They will not reach production, sure. But with these VGT cars — some of them literally never materialize. They are 100-percent digital fantasies. Sure, the design studio might have a clay styling buck – but rarely a concept roller ready for the global show circuit. Since revealing this stunning flagship GT study in December, Infiniti has indeed completed a real-world concept car. Although shown in China …

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2015 Berlinetta Lusso by Touring SuperLeggera Is F12 In a Tuxedo!

  Touring Superleggera has pulled back the silk on its latest masterpiece: the Berlinetta Lusso. The Lusso is a full redesign of the Ferrari F12’s exterior, adding a level of timeless sophistication to go with the mechanical brutality of the F12 on full throttle. You may have noted that the latest Ferrari range lacks a super-lux flagship: the place of the 456 and 612 is now a far more shouty and hardcore proposition. Touring Superleggera has given the F12 the classy formality of many timeless supercars from years past — including the 375MM made specially for Ingrid Bergman and many …

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2015 Ferrari California T by Tailor Made Evokes Hollywood Royalty of ‘Grigio Ingrid’ 375MM

There is a timeless elegance associated with Hollywood and the global jetset enjoying 1950s Italy. Thanks to commercial aviation — the world’s elite could now, for the first time in history, vacation in far more exotic locales efficiently and without any month-long boatrides there and back. This magical era of big-budget Hollywood movies also was the first time films would be distributed globally as well, thanks to advances in projector and film reel affordability. Upon arrival in Capri or St. Tropez, the stars of the day fell hard for all the accoutrements of the Italian luxury lifestyle — including Ferrari’s. …

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HD Exhaust Note Video! 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and Z07 Convertible in the Wild

Parked between a Ferrari 360 Modena and a custom Camaro SS — both literally and figuratively — lives the 3.0-second 2015 Corvette Z06. Not just one but a pair of Corvette Z06s in the wild at Charleston Cars & Coffee this weekend. NICE! Both manuals, both Z07-package-equipped, and both pulling in many drooling car-guys up close. Snapped a video of the Convertible revving to the heavens. Sounds SOOO GOOD! HD Exhaust Note Video – 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Both owners had just taken delivery within the last week, so definitely confirms that Z06 production is up to full volume. Wait …

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2015 Mercedes-Benz MARCO POLO Glampers Primed For Lux Travel Adventures

  Mercedes-Benz globally has three core businesses: trucks/buses, vans and cars. The US market has been almost exclusively focused on just one of these divisions, with the launch of the M-B Sprinter lineup 12 years ago one of the first times Americans have seen the three-pointed star on a truck of any kind. Everywhere else in the world, Mercedes logos bigger than your head are everywhere in cities, construction sites, farm tracts and anywhere in between. Part of the Mercedes-Benz USA focus on cars is now eroding — to the great benefit of shoppers able to buy some of the best …

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2015 Bentley Mulsanne Speed BLUE TRAIN By Mulliner

Bentley just rolled out a new Mulliner Limited Edition — the Mulsanne Speed ‘Blue Train.’ Honoring one of the most famous Bentleys of all time, a 1930 Speed Six that beat the high-speed Calais-Mediterranée Express train  to its destination — something most thought could not be done by any car. Featuring a one-off chop-top coupe style, the Blue Train is such a legend that a few reproductions have even been created — including the RM Amelia Island car below.  The 2015 Mulsanne Speed Blue Train is debuting today at the Techno Classica auto show in Germany. The car features a few …

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Land Rover Heritage Division Launched + Own This 1987 RR Classic For $20k!?

We’ve been trying to find a way to write about this absolutely flawless 1987 Range Rover Vogue SE that is up for sale with no reserve from RM Auctions on May 2, 2015. Have you ever seen a more radiant and almost-brand-new classic Rangie!? Finished in Tuscan Blue, the 1987 model was the USA relaunch model for the brand. Four doors, a fantastic cabin and a driving position so unique and special, anyone would instantly fall in love. Just 150 horsepower from the big Buick-derived Rover V8, but enough to make the RR feel like a king as it romps …

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LeMans Homologation Specials – 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR SuperSport

The CLK GTR has an altogether less impressive record than the McLaren F1 GTR and Porsche 911 GT1 it was designed to beat. The CLK GTR was the most eagerly-sought road model, however, with 300 buyers trying to own one of the 25 road cars to be produced by AMG and the re-established M-B factory racing team. Re-established? Mercedes took the ultimate in gentlemen’s intermissions from LeMans after the tragic accident of 1955 killed dozens of spectators. A car out of control and taking flight before a huge crash was too similar to the 1930s Silver Arrows accidents, wherein famous …

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LeMans Homologation Specials - 1998 Porsche 911 GT1 Evo Strassenversion 2

LeMans Homologation Specials – 1998 Porsche 911 GT1 Evo Strassenversion

A brief overlap in racing rules took place between 1996 and 1998 — as the World GT race series was acquired by FIA and folded into LeMans and the World Endurance Challenge proper. Previous rules for the GT cars like the McLaren F1 GTR stated that the car had to technically be available for customers to buy and use on the road. This rare piece of legislation led to road versions of the ultimate racecars of the time, including this Porsche 911 GT1 and the Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. The Porsche 911 GT1 was by far the most successful racer of the …

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Collecti-Bangers Faceoff! 1977 Lincoln vs 1975 Jaguar XJ12C

PHOTO POLL BELOW! The vast majority of all cars are not collectable. They will not appreciate past a certain nostalgia point, no matter how rare or how cool they are. Usually, these cars just finish out their days in quite, affluent dignity before being junked or liquidated at low-ball auctions. But every once and a while, these cars are included in a big-money sale like RM Sotheby’s. Usually in the catalogs because they are part of a large estate of more desirable vehicles, they shimmy their way across the auction block with little hope of a big score from buyers. These …

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1986 Toyota Celica IMSA GTO 1

Racing Hero – 1986 Toyota Celica IMSA GTO Is a Rear-Drive Boost-Monster

There is something about this purpose-built Celica racecar that feels like the best of all worlds: rear-drive with a rear-mounted transaxle, a 2.0-liter Toyota “T” turbo engine detuned from 600HP to 450HP, and a grip setup to shame any other race series. This beautiful carbon-skinned racecar is hiding tires wider than a NASCAR racer, yet is as low as any modern hypercar. We just love its relative simplicity versus the tech-overloaded racecars of today. One purpose: be faster than anything else ever made… but only with the right driver aboard. This car earned $242,000 when sold in 2014. 1986 Toyota …

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1964 BMW 3200CS 14

Hall of Fame – 1964 BMW 3200CS Set BMW Sports Coupe Template

For most Americans, the BMW takeover of US sports/luxury cars began with the 2002. Before this early-1970s hit, BMW was best known in the US for the Isetta (in extremely low numbers) and for motorcycles. Humming around town in this 1964 BMW 3200CS would make any and all BMW fan stop and stare. Far creamier and softer lines than the 3.0L Coupe from the mid-1970s, but still sharing their fundamental style and glasshouse? That would be this extremely rare and extremely special 3200CS. Designed by Bertone, the 3200CS influence is instantly visible on every BMW since. The best part!? The …

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1959 Riva Florida Nounours 16

RM Villa Erba 2015 – 1959 Riva Florida ‘Nounours’ Is Hollywood-Glamour Woody

Riva’s woody speedboats are some of the most famous in the world, with the global jet set taking to their smooth lines and stunning style instantly. This 1959 Florida was owned by Bridget Bardot and docked at her St. Tropez villa throughout the 1960s. Its name ‘Nounours’ translates from French as Teddy Bear — but we read as ‘nooner!’ The flip back seat of the boat converted into a reclined sunbed, perfect for those romantic trysts around lunchtime. The estimate is not yet available, be we expect it to be fairly reasonable. A top value of around $200,000 is a …

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RM Villa Erba 2015 - 1960 Ferrari 250GT Berlinetta Competizione SWB Alloy by Scaglietti 1

RM Villa Erba 2015 – 1960 Ferrari 250GT Berlinetta Competizione SWB Alloy by Scaglietti

Sometimes, an auction description just rings through your head like a cash register at the grocery store — each additional word creating a “cha-ching” sound that you know will add a million dollars to the sale price. This 1960 Ferrari (cha-ching) 250GT (again…) Berlinetta (brrring) Competizione (super cha-ching) might top $20 million when sold this summer at Lake Como for the RM Sotheby’s Villa Erba sale. One of 45 aluminum-skinned 250GT’s made in 1960, this car rolled out the SWB ‘passo corto’ chassis for extra maneuverability on tight tracks or winding roads. It also chopped around 100 pounds from the …

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1969 Lamborghini 400GT Islero S by Marazzi 1

RM Monterey 2015 – 1969 Lamborghini 400GT Islero S by Marazzi

If there is one car that truly defies what we call the “Lambo GT curse,” it would be this stunning 400GT Islero S. Somehow escaping the frumpy style decisions of the earlier 350GT and too-large 1970s GT cars, the 400GT is a fantastic coupe style statement with V12 power up front and a leather-wrapped 2+2 cabin with real trunk out back. You can tell that the 400GT Islero S is a real timeless classic because its style almost directly previews the designs of 1980s sports coupes from around the world. The Ferrari 400i and 412i from the early 1980s would …

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RM Andrews 2015 - Real TRON Light Cycle

RM Andrews 2015 – Real 2011 TRON Light Cycle EV Bike – Just 25k!?

Fan of the 2011 movie or not, this TRON light cycle custom is a sweet bike. A fully operation electric motorcycle, this one-off recreation is the LED-lit dream bike for its incredible riding position, huge power from a 96-volt direct drive, and massive grip and stability thanks to the super-wide tires. The estimate is remarkably affordable: no reserve and a sale between $25k and $40k when it crosses the block in May at the Andrews Collection RM Auction. Here are a few photos of TRON Legacy movie bike for comparison. Near-exact, but with a real rider — maybe you…!   Real …

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RM Andrews 2015 Preview – 1962 Chevrolet Corvette RPO Big Tank Gulf Oil Race Car

Talk about important Corvettes, and this beauty is on the top of many lists. A late first-generation model, this is one of the special RPO order code cars, of which only 240 or so were made in 1962. The upgrades are thorough for a race-prepped car right from the factory:including the 37-gallon ‘Big Tank’ for endurance racing. This actual car raced in numerous International events before going into the time capsule until recently. How much? Brace yourself: the estimate says the sale price could hit $2.8-million.   1962 Chevrolet Corvette RPO Big Tank Gulf Oil Race Car The Andrews Collection 2 …

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2015 W Motors Lykan HyperSport – Watch The Furious 7 Hero Car In Action!

Why do car brands love product placement? Let us count the ways! The most powerful effect can be instant and global — delivering a lift in brand awareness and consideration that would otherwise take 50 agencies, localized creative and perhaps $100-million in measured media spending. When done right, it really is magical. Crossing borders and languages instantly, becoming part of the cultural zeitgeist and a piece of cinema history for all time. In addition, weaving a car into the plot of a film can show off its performance, dynamic poise, interior and exhaust/engine notes simply by driving the car on …

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Hall of Fame – 1928 Mercedes-Benz 680S Torpedo Roadster by Carrosserie J. Saoutchik

Everyone loves Ferrari’s, but why do red stunners seem to be the main vehicles pulling seven-figure totals at auction? This Mercedes-Benz was a flagship for the newly-merged Daimler-Benz corporation — a way to show that the interwar reconstruction effort did not dull the engineering brilliance of the country. Mercedes looked to Jacques Saoutchik of Paris to handle coachwork on a few showcase vehicles — cars that would go on to star in branding ad campaigns around the world, and live in the record books for their massive speeds. 120-mph in the 1920s was an insane pace for the few owners who were …

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Original 1932 Ford Roadster Is 'Dry Lakes' Bonneville Speed Racer 3

Original 1932 Ford Roadster Is ‘Dry Lakes’ Bonneville Speed Racer

It is hard to emphasize how rare it is to find a surviving, unrestored race-car from the glory days of dry-lake hotrod racing. This primer-grey example is a documented example with fantastic speed parts intact and a charming contrast orange look for its minimal roll bars and frame rails. Completely open-wheel and sans hood, this ’32 Ford has was a hero then for its massive speed, and is a hero today for making it six decades intact, unchanged from its pre-1950 state. The Roadster earned $180,000 at the Gooding Amelia Island auction, which was well below its estimate but likely …

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1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I Lightweight Replica 6

Gooding Amelia 2015 – 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I Lightweight Replica

Among the hundreds of fantastic cars up for sale at the 2015 Gooding & Company auction in Amelia Island this year, Jaguar E-Types were proudly represented. Most sold for pricing in the range of $150,000 to $300,000. As such, this Series I Lightweight’s estimated price of $400,000-plus was always an ambitious total, with a possibility that it would not meet its reserve price. Without crossing that threshold, the car would be a no-sale and any bids below that rate would be canceled. Finally, this Jag has one trait that collectors tend to avoid at almost all costs: replica. Despite being …

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#NYIAS 2015 – Day Two Showfloor Gallery + Best and Worst Debuts!

Press preview days are wrapped on a very eventful New York International Auto Show – with big reveals from Cadillac, Chevy, Lincoln, Nissan, Kia, Lexus, , Porsche, Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi and McLaren. Best in show? We’d vote for the Honda Civic Coupe Concept. The new Chevy Malibu is also mighty impressive, while the Cadillac CT6 requires closer inspection than is possible in just a brief glimpse. Mercedes-Benz dominated the World Car Awards (whatever those are) with wins for the C-Class, S-Class Coupe and AMG GT. BMW and Audi did not even bother to hold press conferences, oddly. Worst is show …

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#NYIAS 2015 Showfloor Gallery – Day One in 122 HIgh-Res Photos!

Big day today in the Big Apple! Enjoy this photo fly-through of the first press preview day of #NYIAS =] #NYIAS 2015 Showfloor Gallery Ford GT Ford Shelby Mustang GT350R   Subaru BRZ STI Concept + Rally Cars Range Rover SVAutobiography VW Golf SportWagen AllTrack Aston Martin McLaren Koenigsegg, Bugatti + Lamborghini BMW Z4 GTLM + 1975 Sebring-Winning 3.0 CSL Jaguar XF Scion iA Scion iM BMW Alpina Kia Optima Mazda MX-5 Club

Gooding Amelia 2015 - 1951 Lotus Mk IIIB Was First-Ever Customer Lotus 7

Gooding Amelia 2015 – 1951 Lotus Mk IIIB Was First-Ever Customer Lotus

The first car Lotus ever sold, and the first car to wear the revered yellow crest of the brand?! Yessir! Colin Chapman’s stylized initials formed the basis of the emblem, but it was the most designed piece of the machine. The rest of the car is ruthlessly functional — with giant bulges in the hood exploding from the metal like some giant hematomas. Along with the twin lamps forming nostrils at the tip of the narrow hood, the ONK license plate is more than a little tongue-in-cheeck. Oink, oink… like a pig…. But this car sung at auction. The sale …

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1973 Lamborghini Espada III 21

Gooding Amelia 2015 – 1973 Lamborghini Espada Series III Earns $99k

Lamborghini has its roots in front-engine GT cars — but they are consistently some of the least-loved V12 Italian exotics in history. One look at the profile of this long 1970s timecapsule does most of the explaining — it is ungainly and alarmingly awkward in its proportions. This might have to do with its supercar designers — Marcello Gandini and Bertone were more well-versed in mid-engine hypercar wedges than they were in practical, roomy cruisers. The Espada III is the best of the line, with these models packing air conditioning and wood-rimmed cabin details, but not the jumbo bumpers that …

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1956 Arnolt-Bristol Deluxe Roadster by Bertone 4

Update1 – RM Amelia 2015 – 1956 Arnolt-Bristol Deluxe Roadster by Bertone Brings $484k

Updated with 26 Photos + Sale Price of $484,000 A few photos of the auction car inside the RM Auctions room at the Amelia Island Rita Carlton, plus a different Arnolt-Bristol of the same variety entering the concours field.   1956 Arnolt-Bristol Deluxe Roadster by Bertone As ever, these high-dollar auctions are a rare chance to see priceless classics out and about in the real world. This Arnolt-Bristol by Bertone certainly applies — a run of 143 total rebodies of the Bristol 404 completed to order by Bertone in Italy. The design shows how an odd chassis package can actually …

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2015 Ford Expedition Platinum EL 43

HD Road Test Review – 2015 Ford Expedition Platinum EL

Test drives are so instantly illuminating. Writing (and reading!) car reviews, you can think you know all about a machine from afar. Then you slide behind the wheel and buckle in, tap the start button and are surprised beyond belief. In some cases, the car or truck you think you will love is not quite all you hoped. In other scenarios, a full-size SUV that looks pretty mature and dull outside can actually be the best-driving, most-satisfying and best-value truck you’ve ever driven! This 2015 Expedition EL Platinum falls into the latter category. So incredibly amazed was this driver that …

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Amelia 2015 Highlights - 1962 Alfa Romeo Giulietta SZ 8

Amelia 2015 Highlights – 1962 Alfa Romeo Giulietta SZ Coda Tronca and 1960 SZ Berlinetta

Not one Alfa Sprint Zagato, but two!? Rare barely begins to describe these two. Fewer of these hand-shaped bodies were made than Ferrari 250s in 1962, with every one unique and showing slight variations. The Coda Tronca ‘long tail’ SZ in silver shows strong hints of Aston Martin in the shape of that rear end, while the yellow Berlinetta is pert and smooth in back. The beauty of these two SZ’s is greatly enhanced by the lack of any external bumpers on either end — helping the design look as delightful and smooth as little teacups. 1960 Alfa Romeo Giulietta …

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Future Classics – 1993-1995 Mazda RX-7 Now Within Reach For Around $18k

The timeless beauty of the third-gen Mazda RX-7 is instantly visible even today, a full 20 years since the car was last sold in the United States. See one on the road and you will instantly be in love again. Low, lithe, curvy but sleek, pure and organic — there is a real star quality to this 1.3-liter Wankel twin turbo. Comparing the car back to back with the Supra Turbo, Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 or Nissan 300ZX in 2015 makes it instantly clear: this Mazda is the future classic of the bunch. The Supra Turbo might have packed more heat …

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1965 Maserati Sebring Red 19

Gooding Amelia 2015 – 1965 Maserati Sebring in Red Brings $300k

Can’t get enough of the very-rare and very chic Maserati Sebring? How about another in bright red? This Gooding & Co. auction car brought upwards of $300,000 – making it a well-priced entry into the club of 1960s Italian exotica.   ORIGINAL Tastemaker? With headlamps that look straight off of the Chevrolet Corvette C1 facelift in 1960? Not so much, guy! But look past the twin chrome-rimmed circles on light on this Maserati Sebring and you have the basis for some seriously futuristic sports coupes. The long hood and sunken grille and delicious, while the flat surfacing and boxy glasshouse …

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Amelia Island 2015 – 1965 Maserati Sebring 3500 GTi Was Avant-Garde Luxury Tastemaker

Tastemaker!? With headlamps that look straight off of the Chevrolet Corvette C1 facelift in 1960? Not so much, guy! But look past the twin chrome-rimmed circles on light on this Maserati Sebring and you have the basis for some seriously futuristic sports coupes. The long hood and sunken grille and delicious, while the flat surfacing and boxy glasshouse would become mainstream and popular a full 20 years later in the 1980s. Beating a trend by two decades definitely counts as innovative, taste-making design in our book! 1965 Maserati Sebring 3500 GTi Series I      

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Gooding Amelia 2015 – 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB4 Is All-Original Blue Beauty For $3.3M

This Bleu Chiaro 275 GTB is rare, but the color is only part of what makes this V12 icon so cool and unique. Most unlike almost all other Ferrari 250’s and 275’s these days, this one is fantastically original. The patina of 33 years spent garaged is actually delightful to see up close. For unlike most Ferrari’s of this era restored to almost-unreal levels of finish, this car shows its glory years proudly. Yes, this means that there is a bit of corrosion visible under the car near the front subframe, and it means that the oil-based paint is cracking …

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1958 Pontiac Bonneville Sport Coupe 33

RM Amelia Island 2015 – 1958 Pontiac Bonneville Sport Coupe Is Rocket-Brick Icon

  For someone who loves cars as much as I do, meeting a rare and special machine can have unintended consequences. No one would blink if you were so emotionally affected by an opera or fresco, but to be weak-kneed by a car? A Pontiac from the 1950s? Like most art, the effect on the viewer is one of the many mysteries of the world. Reviewing this Bonneville Sport Coupe today is quite an emotional affair. Pontiac was trying desperately to spring-board their brand from obscurity into the greats of automobiledom. They needed a flagship — something to draw the …

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2015 Galpin-Fisker ROCKET Mustang 20

2015 Galpin-Fisker ROCKET Mustang Production Debut + Startup Video

The Galpin Auto Sports and Henrik Fisker ROCKET Mustang is official and headed to its first owners within the next few weeks! This jet-black example at Amelia Island is the first production model — which we snapped rumbling around Amelia Island Concours last week. Also included here is a brief exhaust snippet from startup — at least two octaves deeper than the factory exhaust, that is for sure!  The 725HP puts out a ridiculous amount of heat from those quad pipes as well….! 2015 Galpin-Fisker ROCKET Mustang PREVIOUS A huge number of incredible photos to share from Amelia Island Concours …

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Amelia Island Customs – POSIES 1935 Aeroliner Sport Is One-Off ChopTop Dragster

The photos of this custom-built Posies Aeroliner do not really do the vehicle justice. In the flesh, it is impossibly long, unbelievably low and seriously seductive. Loosely based on a 1935 Ford Roadster chassis, the Posies Aeroliner is now twice as long, runs giant exposed tires up front with no fenders, and drag-racing rubber in back under its elegant bodywork. The ultra-low roofline is a true chop-top dream come true, with almost zero daylight opening and a windshield small enough to fit in your back pocket. Overall, the impact of the car is undeniable! But the style is only half …

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LANCIA Rally Reunion - Stratos, Integrale, Fulvia and 037 Together for Amelia 2015 52

LANCIA Rally Reunion – Stratos, Integrale, Fulvia and 037 Together for Amelia 2015

What else to say about this incredible quartet of rally heroes!? Please enjoy these 52 photos from one of the best rally legacies of all time.   LANCIA Rally Reunion – Stratos, Integrale, Fulvia and 037

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Amelia Island 2015 – 1975 Lancia Stratos Rally Car

As fantastic as the Stratos production models were, the rally car is in another league of intensity. Giant fender flares, hugely oversized tires and a raised ride height make this exotic wedge look as ready for off-roading as was possible. Considering it is essentially a hypercar, the idea of whipping through the forest, drifting so wide that the side windows look forward is almost unreal. Terrifying levels of power, extremely limited grip and flyweight dimensions mean the Stratos was a next-level machine in the world of rallying. The Stratos won the newly-formed WRC for three years in a row from …

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Amelia Island 2015 – 1983 Lancia 037 Group B Rally Hero

The Lancia 037 is a rare standout among the four all-star Lancia rally cars reunited for the Amelia Island 2015 Concours. Rare because unlike the others, this machine ditches almost all sense of road-car in favor of an extreme supercar package. In proportions and width, this mid-engine, rear-drive turbo monster is what happened when the Lancia and Abarth racing teams start from a blank sheet of paper — engineering an all-star from the ground up. As one of the first cars anywhere to use carbon-fiber composites, the “zero-three-seven” was named after is project code in the Abarth speed labs. The …

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1969 Lancia Fulvia 12

Amelia Island 2015 – 1969 Lancia Fulvia 1600 HF Rallye Car

The Lancia Rally legends series? Not just winners in the racing arena, but also the historical influencers and taste-maker charts. If the Delta Integrale inspired the Mitsubishi Evo and Subaru WRX, what did this Lancia Fulvia spur to life? None other than the also-important BMW 2002. Important groundwork was laid here for the rear-drive Stratos, which would dominate the first few years of the official WRC race series with its lightweight panels, ultra-compact design and supercar performance — optimized for the dirty, dusty and ice-covered rally race routes. 1969 Lancia Fulvia 1600 HF Rallye

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Meet The 1988 Lancia Delta HF Integrale 8V WRC-Winner in 60 High-Res Photos!

In the World Rally Championship record books, no single vehicle or manufacturer has been more dominant than the Lancia Delta. Winning the championship from 1987 through 1992, this tops every winning streak by other big hitters: Subaru, Peugeot and Citroen included. Being able to meet the actual race-winning vehicle is special in any circumstance, but to be able to photograph and document the vehicle in detail is beyond special. It is inspiring to see the Lancia Delta in its full Martini Racing livery, even today almost thirty years later. Inspiration from the Lancia Delta Integrale formula spanned the globe after …

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Amelia Island 2015 Galleries - 1954 Jaguar D-Type 4

Amelia Island 2015 Galleries – 1954 Jaguar D-Type Factory Team Racecar XKD403

The Jaguar D-Type is easy to love – with its swoopy panels almost bending upside down to form a bullet-like casing for these lightweight mechanicals. The rear wing is a treat, while the provenance of this actual car is also hard to neglect. Raced with the Jaguar factory team the wing lists none other than Sir Stirling Moss as one of the brave men to pin the thottle of this dark-green beauty. One thing that is plain to see with this Jag compared with racers from after 1955 is that its nose intake appears to be quite small. This is …

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1958 Lister-Jaguar Knobbly 6

Amelia Island 2015 Galleries – 1958 Lister-Jaguar Knobbly

Read all about the new generation of Lister Knobbly Jaguars over here… including the choice of engines and full specs. http://www.car-revs-daily.com/2015/01/09/2015-lister-jaguar-knobbly/ 1958 Lister-Jaguar Knobbly

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1956 Maserati 300S Wins Amelia Island 2015 Stirling Moss Award

We find this Maserati 300S to be instantly lovable, perhaps even more-so than the Ferrari 290MM of the previous article. The nose feels lower, more shapely and more humble in the nose design. The simple drilled vent circles are delightful, as is the Maserati trident emblem sunken within the oval primary intake. Just subtle, but clearly focused on winning races versus style contests. Ironic that this very look would make it so special more than 60 years later. 1956 Maserati 300S Best in Class – Cars of Stirling Moss 1956 Maserati 300S Lawrence Auriana – Greenwich, CT

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1956 Ferrari 290MM Wins Amelia Island Concours 2015 Chairmans Trophy

It is easy to see why this 1956 290MM earned an award for itself on the lawn of Amelia Island Concours 2015. Deeply beautiful, powerful and wearing a few tasteful motorsport style accents: the wheel-tips and white spots for number markings reinforce how race-ready this legend still is today. 1956 Ferrari 290MM    Amelia Island Concours 2015 The Chairman’s Choice Trophy FOR THE CAR FOUND MOST APPEALING BY THE CHAIRMAN 1956 Ferrari 290MM Pierrey Collection – London, England

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Amelia Island 2015 – 1957 Aston Martin DBR1 Animated Flyaround + 50 Photos

      The most beautiful Aston Martin of all time? Almost certainly.   1957 Aston Martin DBR1          

Amelia Island 2015 - BMW Brings 507, M1, CSL and tii To Join 2015 X5 M and 2015 650i M Sport 17

Amelia Island 2015 – BMW Brings 507, M1, CSL and Targa Tii To Join 2015 X5 M and New 650i M Sport

You might be wondering – what is with all these new cars at a classic car show like Amelia Island or Pebble Beach? It is a fantastic way to establish brand credibility, legacy loyalty and customer acquisition. After all, few of these millionaires will be tooling around in a vintage car on a day-to-day basis. They need a 2015 BMW! On that note, the 2015 X5 M joined the fun along with the very-lightly-revised 650i M Sport. Highlights also include the M1 and 507 roadster, plus the Goldeneye Z3 and a few 2002s. The orange one is a very-rare targa …

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Amelia Island 2015 - 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia Roadster 15

Amelia Island 2015 – 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia Roadster Is Magnificent

PART TWO: The Roadster The BMW 328 Mille Miglia roadster seem here came before the coupe. It was a stepping-stone between the production 328 cabrio and the Touring Coupe seen in the second half of this page. The goal was as ultra-light reskin in alloy that would reduce drag, enhance stability at speed, and deliver outstanding performance to take on the best racecars in the world — and win. But the side benefit of the 328 Mille Miglia redesign? This roadster is one of the most beautiful silhouettes ever made. 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia Roadster   Imagine a single …

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Amelia Island 2015 – 1939 BMW 328 Mille Miglia Touring Coupe

Imagine a single racecar that won the its Nurburgring debut race, the Tourist Trophy, Mille Miglia and RAC Rally. A car so advanced and streamlined, its giant exhaust system is the only portion of the underbody that is not wrapped in lightweight alloy. Even the taillamps are integrated into the lower body with custom alloy stalks, and a license-plate housing that wraps that plate around its ultra-smooth rump. A coupe so sexy and sensual in person, we are embarassed to report that it is a clear favorite for top-ten cars of all time. Like the Mercedes-Benz 540K Streamliner shown at …

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Amelia Island 2015 - 1966 Porsche 906 Carrera 6  16

Amelia Island 2015 – 1966 Porsche 906 Carrera 6

The journey for Porsche to LeMans glory starting in 1970 is almost a textbook case of incremental evolution. A new trait here works, so it sticks. A few things lost in the name of ultimate high-speed glory. Seeing the 1966 Porsche 906 Carrera 6 beside a close descendent, the 1968 908K, makes clear how carefully Porsche was refining its alloy spaceframe racecar during the 1960s. They really knew they were on to something with the ultra-low boxer engine masses, mounted right behind the driver for optimal handling. The 2.0-liter six of this racecar shares much of its fundamental design with …

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1961 Ferrari 250GT Series II Cabriolet 16

Gooding Amelia 2015 – 1961 Ferrari 250GT Series II Cabriolet Brings $2.1M

This Ferrari 250 GT is a real winner. With its factory hardtop, it can be hard to know that this is one of the most desirable second-gen Ferrari 250’s to hit the blocks recently. A series II model with the standard wheelbase, this car is a real hero and is arguably far more beautiful and balanced a design than the SWB California. How classy is this car? The hardtop even has a sunroof! Well bought. 1961 Ferrari 250GT Series II Cabriolet

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Amelia Island 2015 – 1968 Porsche 908K Short-Tail Coupe Is One of Two Survivors

This Le Mans racer from Porsche is part of a 200-mph dream: Fast cars, evolving in hyperspeed. The 908 was an adapted version of the 907 – but altered to fit an all-new 3.0-liter boxer eight-cylinder engine. We believe this is chassis 908-019 (or perhaps 908-011) – which is thought to be one of two surviving short-tail 908 Coupes outside the Porsche Museum. The 908K stands for short-tail, which was ideal for tighter tracks versus the long-tail for the Le Sarthe LeMans track itself. This machine was a transition phase for the Porsche race crew. A rule change for 1969’s …

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Amelia Island 2015 – 1971 Porsche 911 East African Rally Car

One of the five factory-prepped 911s that raced the 1971 East African Rally, this 911 is pretty outstanding in its creamy white paint. A thorough upgrade, as you can see, includes front and rear rhino bars that are fully integrated into the chassis of the car. But overall, aside from modest aesthetic tweaks, extra lighting, higher ground clearance and sponsor stickers — the mechanicals of this 911 appear to be completely stock. Just proof of the 911’s world-beating package? Perhaps! Our favorite detail? The grab handles on the exterior of the car — mounted on both C-pillars. Not exactly sure …

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Amelia 2015 Customs – 1970 Porsche 914-6 GT – Rally Rescue Pickup Truck

A surprise and delight to see thrumming up the Ritz Carlton driveway for the Amelia Island Concours? This extremely cool, one-off pickup truck Porsche. Originally a 914-6 GT, the rear of the truck has been lengthened, the suspension upgraded to full safari rally specification, and the Dakar-ready racing equipment added. What might fit in this rather compact pickup truck bed? You name it!  Wheels, tires, Porsche engines, and perhaps even an injured road-warrior in a pinch. The wide-body style and fenders bring a dramatic width extension to accommodate big off-road rubber and those hardy new suspension components. With almost no …

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Amelia Island 2015 – Panoz DeltaWing LeMans Racer + Esperante GT

Panoz was well-placed at the Amelia Island 2015 Concours, with their first-gen DeltaWing racecar and the production Esperante GT. One is an incredible leap into the future of aerodynamics, speed and endurance racing brilliance. The other… a hopeless anachronism based on a 1995 Ford Mustang GT. Sorry for the harsh words on the Esperante. The contrast of this thing with the Garage56 racecar from LeMans and the ALMS series just feels like a car from a different planet than a 20-year-old reskin of a 20-year-old Mustang. Panoz DeltaWing Panoz Esperante GT

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Gooding Amelia 2015 – 1991 Ferrari F40 Brings $1.6M

Despite Ferrari building triple the 399 units of the F40 initially planned, they are still pretty rare to see. Not exactly practical or comfy, the F40 and its twin-turbocharged V8 is what we think of as a point A to point A car. Much as a Corolla is a point A to point B car — you park it at work, for example, as point B. The F40 is a car you leave from home, go for a blast, and bring it safely back to its garage. In person, this F40 is surprisingly new and still striking. Most 1991 models …

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2016 Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus SCG003C and SCG003S – Specs, Pricing and 135 Photos!

The name SCG003 name might be a mouthful, but its performance will be an earful, and its design is a sumptuous eyeful! Welcome to the next chapter in hardcore performance. The ultimate in hypercar power and track pace – competing with exotica like the W Motors Lykan Hypersport, Pagani Huayra, Koenigsegg and Bugatti. The 2016 Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus SCG003 is a duo of custom-designed race-winners — both on the track and on the street. The SCG003C stands for Competizione, while the SCG003S is for the stradale — or street. Grand ambitions for this mid-engine, carbon-fiber masterpiece. A truly stunning design …

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Geneva 2015 Galleries – The Scandinavians – VOLVO, Koenigsegg and ZENVO

  PART FIVE   Here is why we are revisiting this mega-show: there are 400 photos in our Geneva 2015 file folder that have not been published yet. Some of the cars are cool, some are curious, and some are normal economy hatchbacks. A dozen of the big reveals are in individual articles — viewable at the Geneva category page over here. But for whatever reason, these fine machines did not make it into solo posts. Not fair, right? All photos deserve to see the light of day! The cars could use some sun, too. The Geneva auto show generally …

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Geneva 2015 Galleries - The FRENCH 23

Geneva 2015 Galleries – The FRENCH – Renault, Citroen, DS and Borgward!?

  PART FOUR When we found photos of this classic turd named Borgward, we naturally assumed from its hideous design, nauseating paint and unusual presence at a new-car show that it was French. It is actually German Belgian. Sarray. The Borgward design feels like a Karmann Ghia pretending to be a Buick, but less appealing than either. The Bakelite two-tone pastels are never a good idea. Only white with pink details would be worse. What is this? A white and pink Citroen van concept!  Home run, chaps. Time for a white-wine lunch? Moving on… So, why Geneva photos a week …

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Geneva 2015 Galleries The Germans 25

Geneva 2015 Galleries – The Germans, Austrians, Swiss and Czech – ALPINA, Audi, Quant, Mansory and Skoda

PART THREE   Here is why we are revisiting this mega-show: there are 400 photos in our Geneva 2015 file folder that have not been published yet. Some of the cars are cool, some are curious, and some are normal economy hatchbacks. A dozen of the big reveals are in individual articles — viewable at the Geneva category page over here. But for whatever reason, these fine machines did not make it into solo posts. Not fair, right? All photos deserve to see the light of day! The cars could use some sun, too. The Geneva auto show generally delivers …

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Geneva 2015 Galleries - The ITALIANS! Lamborghini, Ferrari, Maserati and Alfa Romeo 39

Geneva 2015 Galleries – The ITALIANS! Lamborghini, Ferrari, Maserati and Alfa Romeo

PART TWO Geneva? Wasn’t that huge swarm of media intros and press conferences almost 10 days ago? Yes, yes it was. The Geneva Motor Show is currently open to the public and the Palexpo center is packed wall-to-wall with the world’s hottest exotica. Here is why we are revisiting this mega-show: there are 400 photos in our Geneva 2015 file folder that have not been published yet. Some of the cars are cool, some are curious, and some are normal economy hatchbacks. A dozen of the big reveals are in individual articles — viewable at the Geneva category page over …

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Geneva 2015 Galleries – The ENGLISH! McLaren, Jaguar, Land Rover, Aston Martin, Lotus and MINI

Geneva? Wasn’t that huge swarm of media intros and press conferences almost 10 days ago? Yes, yes it was. The Geneva Motor Show is currently open to the public and the Palexpo center is packed wall-to-wall with the world’s hottest exotica. Here is why we are revisiting this mega-show: there are 400 photos in our Geneva 2015 file folder that have not been published yet. Some of the cars are cool, some are curious, and some are normal economy hatchbacks. A dozen of the big reveals are in individual articles — viewable at the Geneva category page over here.  But …

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1958 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud Honeymoon Express – Crown Opus For Freestone and Webb Coachbuilders

  Freestone & Webb was one of the most prolific coachbuilders of its time – winning dozens of awards and working with a dozen brands during its run from 1923 to around 1958. This Silver Cloud I in sporty, two-door style is an extravagant and lavish masterpiece — perhaps the defining achievement of the firm’s run in the coachbuilt car business. This 42,000-mile example in Mason’s Black is quite something in person. It is huge, first off. Secondly, the flowing trunkline sinks slowly down toward the back bumper — creating the classic ‘leaned back’ stance of many legendary Rolls-Royces. But …

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1953 Alfa Romeo 6C 3000CM Shows Origin of 2015 4C Nose Design 25

1953 Alfa Romeo 6C 3000CM Shows Origin of 2015 4C Nose Design

Alfa Romeo has such a deep catalog of sportscars, it is natural to wonder if the 4C’s nose design pulls in some heritage cues. We suspected it did, but could not pin down exactly which car inspired the Alfa shield in oversized, vertical form — combined with twin intake jellybeans on either side. What shape are those extra grilles!? Pointed toward the edges of the nose, but rounded around the grille section. It is a fantastic look on the 4C. In person, this new Alfa is absolutely brilliant. Gorgeous. Versus the chrome treatment on these 3000CM grilles, the 4C employs …

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1956 Maserati 200SI by Fantuzzi – Longnose Factory Race Team Prototype

The first-ever Maserati 200 SI made, a works development prototype and raced by a dozen of the biggest names in 1950s racing? Yes, yes and yes! This 200 ‘Sport Internazionale’ is one of the most special cars ever to wear the Maserati trident. The one-of-a-kind works racer is most distinctive due to its unpainted exterior. The aluminum and alloy panelwork is on proud display, along with racing history from every angle. Chassis #2401 did not meet its (unknown) reserve price in the 2015 Gooding & Co. Amelia Island auction. Rumored to bring more than $5-million, it looks like the bidding …

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