CUSTOMS

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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2017 smart BRABUS 2

2017 Smart BRABUS Twins Revealed – 20% Power Bump, Quicker Steering and Sport Exhaust

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The new Smart twins are actually quite promising in their first major redesign since the brand was started in the late 1990s. The microcars have been as popular as polio in the US market in their ten years on the market, so the US arrival of the on-sale-now generations to America was never a top priority.  That still stands: there is no official timeframe for them to jump the pond.  A November arrival in 2016 seems plausible. We hope the ForFour will join the unloved ForTwo in the back corner of Mercedes-Benz service loaner folder. Only for clients they hate …

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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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TECHART Carbon Sport Package for the 911 GT3 RS 8

TechArt Goes Carbon Crazy on the Porsche 911 GT3 RS!

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TechArt just revealed their latest hot mods for the Porsche 911 GT3 RS: a comprehensive carbon sport package! This swaps all the exterior’s matte grey plastic for pure, exposed-weave carbon fiber. The TechArt pieces are lighter, stronger and much more eye-catching.  Favorites include the CF splitter and sills, plus the front fender outlets and rear fender intakes.  Swapping these for carbon pieces dramatically ups the wow factor of this track-attack Porker.   TECHART Carbon Sport Package for the 911 GT3 RS Leonberg, April 20th, 2016   For a striking appearance and motor sport accents, TECHART carbon fiber parts set distinct exterior …

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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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Inferno Exotic Car Reventador MV1 CS Series_23311837763_o

2016 Inferno REVENTADOR – Nightmarish Lambo Reskin, Or Dreamy Hyperexotic?

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This Inferno Reventador has been giving us nightmares for weeks every time the file folder is open.  Just the thumbnails are enough to make my skin crawl. But perhaps they make yours warm and tingly? The bodywork is said to be made of a “zinc aluminum foam” that claims to offers light weight and ballistics protection. We hate the idea of a gap-filler being used as a car body, but its need to be shaped rapidly does go one step beyond clay models used by many styling houses.  In reality, these shapes are likely cast in molds, like fiberglass, and …

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2016 Porsche Panamera GTS 14

First Drive Gallery – 2016 Porsche Panamera GTS

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We mis-spoke when saying on GS-F videos last week that the Lexus was the only naturally-aspirated, rear-drive super-sedan on the market! There is one big daddy to contend with: the Panamera GTS. This hardcore sports model is the most stylish, most playful and best-sounding Panamera of all time. It is impossible to do the car justice from a fairly brief test drive, but the photos speak very clearly for themselves! Just like the 4.8-liter, 440HP V8, in fact! Pricing for the GTS as shown here rings in at $129k.  Worth it?  Oh yes. The base of $113k climbs rapidly, with …

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Ferrari F12 N-Largo S by Novitec Rosso 21

784HP, 218-MPH Ferrari F12 N-Largo S by Novitec Rosso

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The N Largo upgrades to the Ferrari F12 and California from Novitec Rosso are clear favorites of ours in the exotic tuner scene.  The crew from Stetten, Germany is back with an even wilder evolution of the widebody racecar theme: the new N-Largo S. Now even wider and even racier! Power is now up to a stout 784HP from the 6.3-liter V12, while top speed climbs ever higher to kissing 218-mph, or a round 350-kph.  Deeply impressive, perhaps especially so in this monochrome gunmetal grey.  Favorite design details are many.  The full-width intake up front is intense with its extra …

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2017 Porsche 911 C2S – RACE YELLOW and GUARDS RED (+First Drive Videos)

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    PART TWO: RACE YELLOW and GUARDS RED   It is quite unusual for a new-gen 911 with an all-new engine, freshness up front and an all-new tail to be upstaged by a simple paint color. But that is the effect Miami Blue has in the flesh! This $4k optional shade joins the new Lava Orange as the brightest, sexiest shades Porsche has offered in years.  Even the standard, no-charge colors are quite becoming on this new Carrera S, however.  The Guard Red is as traditional a color as ever, yet looks fan-tas-tic up close in the flesh.  Various …

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2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S – First Drive in MIAMI BLUE! (+Videos and Color Visualizer)

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It is quite unusual for a new-gen 911 with an all-new engine, freshness up front and an all-new tail to be upstaged by a simple paint color. But that is the effect Miami Blue has in the flesh! This $4k optional shade joins the new Lava Orange as the brightest, sexiest shades Porsche has offered in years.  Even the standard, no-charge colors are quite becoming on this new Carrera S, however.  The Guard Red is as traditional a color as ever, yet looks fan-tas-tic up close in the flesh.  Various dark or light headlight trims and many finishes for the …

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2016 McLaren 675LT Spider – Media Launch Brings 50 New, Real-Life Photos

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  Updated 4.18.16 with 50 new photos from the sunniest part of Northern Europe…!? McLaren just set the configurator of the new 675LT Spider live on the web! The builder is tweaked versus previous McLaren visualizers — simplified and tailored for the small batch of 500 LT Spiders to be produced. Six custom configurations of exterior and interior design are grouped into themes for the launch, but eight wheel styles and three dozen other colors are on the list for standard pricing. Favorites do not include the new 675LT Spider exclusive color: Solis.  This is definitely a rich golden metallic …

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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

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Kiawah Island Concours 2016 – 1948 Chevrolet Fleetline Aerosedan – Charleston PD

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Lots of really special classics, and lots of modern metal too, at the first-ever Kiawah Island Motoring Retreat! This concours takes place on the oceanside golf course of the resort island near Charleston, South Carolina. One favorite find?  This Charleston Police car from 1948! It is a Chevrolet Fleetline Aerosedan that has been lovingly brought up to code inside, outside and under that triple black paintwork. 1948 Chevrolet Fleetline Aerosedan – Charleston PD

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Hands-On with Apple CarPlay + List of VW USA Models Offering Full Smartphone Integration

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Nowadays, distracted driving is on the rise. Android and Apple phones can be used for navigation but people also use them to text while driving. With technology evolving, it was only time before our phones became a part of our in-dash infotainment systems. Not surprisingly, both Android and Apple have created Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to simulate your phone on your current infotainment systems. For 2015 and on, some cars come with either Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, or both. My car has the option for both, but since I own the much superior iPhone, I have the option to …

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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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493HP 2016 BMW M4 GTS Media Launch in Barcelona – 300 Cars Coming to USA!

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Gorgeous launch photos and lineage recap from BMW’s media drive event for the new M4 GTS! This new water-injected turbocharger system ups power to a stout 493HP to go along with its track-attack grip setup, aero package and lightweighting regime.  One particularly awesome detail?  The power-extendable chin splitter!    We’re not sure if the splitter is manually extended or power operated.  The GTS does come with a special toolkit for customizing its shock stiffness and height or different racetracks.  That rear wing is also remarkably beautiful up close.   Beautiful and deeply functional!  Especially in its most raised angle… pinning …

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2016 Toyota UBOX Concept 5

2016 Toyota UBOX Concept – Clemson’s Gen Z Vision for EV Offroader

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UBOX is a very fresh face from Toyota!  This all-EV off-roader was created by the grad students of Clemson University’s CU-ICAR research center to meet the upcoming needs of generation Z on the road. The design is actually quite refreshing, with sharp creases and a chic minimalism to its appeal.  That includes a bluff and trucklike nose and ride height, paired with a giant reconfigurable cabin. But why that minivan windshield angle? That is a big part of an innovative new “pultrusion” process for making carbon-fiber roof rails.  This technique is apparently all-new and very interesting to top Toyota brass …

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Gran Turismo Red Bull X2014 Fan Car – Genius Racer… Now in 4D, Desktop Size

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Red Bull’s prototype racecars for Gran Turismo are some of the most influential looks at the future of racing, and have been since the X2010 and X2014 challenges.  A four-pack of concept vehicles was the result of those efforts, with the machines raceable in the game. Because GT5 and GT6 have such intense details in their physics simulator algorithms, you really can get a sense of each vehicle’s strengths and weaknesses on track.  You become extremely familiar with their behavior at the limit — like a true racing scenario.  It sounds like a cliche to say, but GT6 is that …

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2016 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 by BBM Motorsport 13

2016 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 by BBM Motorsport – Hear the 700HP Blackbooty’s CAPRISTO Exhaust

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If any sports car is really universal, it must be the Porsche 911…  AND the C7 Corvette! The new Corvette is so, so amazing to drive that its appeal transcends borders and cultures like wind, water or sunlight. The seven-speed stickshift, the standard targa roof panel, the 4-second launches, the big trunk, and the big V8 howl.  All these things make the Eurotrip in full working order, and have perhaps an even larger impact on those more familiar with grimey diesels than a clean cut of American sirloin. It is interesting to know what BBM Motorsport would do to their C7 …

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2016 Renault CLIO by WALDOW Performance – Smurfberry Blue Track Special

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Any time the words “Smurf” and “Blue” make it into an official press release, it is usually good for a belly laugh.  We were seriously loving the color and black alloys, contrast-red rollbars and the slammed KW stance of this Clio already.  But then they go and mention the Smurfs. And we’re back to feeling silly! That laughing, delightful character is a big part of any Clio’s appeal.  This one just happens to be a battle-Smurf!  Deadly serious, regardless of its skin tone! 2016 Renault Clio by WALDOW Performance   WALDOW Performance reveals the Renault Clio 4 – The Real …

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2013 Tesla Model S P85+ - Vossen VFS-2 Wheels -_25685987910_o

VOSSEN VFS-2 Alloys Sex Up TESLA Model S

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  Tesla’s Model S is rumored to have a facelift debuting very soon.  And it is about time!  We are shocked to know they are still making many of these EV benchmarks with those same bright alloys and boring maroon paintwork.  Just like they have for years!  This is not great for the $100k super-sedan shopper, who has plenty to choose from these days. Staying stylish is just a phonecall away with these gorgeous Vossen wheels. These VFS-2 forged alloys in matte bronze/copper finish are enough to make even a very-familiar silver Model S feel fresh.  The lowered ride height helps, …

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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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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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2016 Audi A8L Extended 5

2016 Audi A8L Extended Length – Six-Door, Six-Seat Megalux Limo

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What a freaky machine to find in your inbox on a bright Monday morning! A jumbo A8L with six doors, giant glass moonroof and six giant seats. While jaded about the car and what it stands for, we can’t help but like the way the cabin turned out.  The three rows of seats are slightly more functional than the Maybach Pullman, which has two rear-facing seats in its limo compartment’s midsection.  This A8L Extended has more practicality and comfort for all its riders, but much less throne-like legroom for the money seats in the wayback. The 2016 Audi A8L Extended is …

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HD Road Test Review – 2016 GMC Yukon DENALI 4WD

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GMC unknowingly timed their full Yukon redesign perfectly:  as the new full-size trucks arrived in 2015, gas prices dropped to historic lows.  Rave reviews on the new trucks’ style, tech and performance propelled massive sales gains: nearly double the sales of the overall vehicle, and almost tripling the previous year’s Yukon XL sales. These are still down from their heady highs in the 70k-units-plus annual tallies that evaporated after 2008’s gas-price spike.   There is much more to the success of the Yukon Denali than external factors like gas prices., however.  This lux truck is a perfect sweet-spot between yummy …

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1894 Silsby Fourth Size Horse-Drawn Steam Pumper 9

1894 SILSBY Horse-Drawn Steam Fire Engine – RM Auctions Amelia Island 2016 Highlights

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Motorized, steam fire engines were some of the highest-tech wagons on the roads between 1850 and the dawn of the motorcar 50 years later. The need for mechanized, high-volume water pumps to extinguish urban and industrial accidents was what drove such huge innovation at the time.  These high-tech water wagons didn’t know at the time that their steam-engine solutions would spur internal combustion.   For this machine, the steam boiler drove a turbine, which then drove a water pump. Hoses attached to the input would pull water through the system and out the main fire-fighting nozzles and ladders at high pressure and volume. …

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Beating the Supercar Paradox - 2007 Ferrari F430 at Velocity Motorsports Supercar Track Drive 30

The Do’s and Don’ts of Renting an Exotic Car – Scott Huntington Shares Best Practices

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Perhaps you’ve always dreamed of zipping around town in a Ferrari 360 Modena Spider, or maybe you want a standout car for a special occasion such as a honeymoon or dream vacation. Whatever the reason, when it comes to renting luxury or exotic cars, you want to make sure you’re spending your money wisely with a legitimate company. DO Pay Attention to the Rules A reputable luxury car rental company is going to have similar rules to any other car rental company. You’ll likely need to be a certain age – for some companies that might be 25 and for …

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1950 Jaguar XK120 Alloy Roadster 8

RM Monaco 2016 – 1950 Jaguar XK120 Alloy Roadster – War, Peace and Speed Records

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You can almost sense that how much post-war Jaguar was still heady with knowledge and insights from designing torpedos, fighter planes and bombers. On the return to civilian life, that knowledge greatly enhanced the performance of their vehicles. Their insight into light construction, aerodynamics and pure, function-first aesthetics is clear to see on this XK120 Alloy from 1950.  We love how these weapons-designers applied a softer, lighter mood overall to this sports roadster.  Its baby blue color only reinforces the peace-making mission this car would tackle. The hints of brutality and war, however, are not hard to find in this iconic machine’s design …

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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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Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 16 with optional black wheels and painted roof

2016 Volkswagen GTI Clubsport Edition 40 – Locking Diff, Slicks and Aerokit for R-powered Front-Driver

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‘Dead On Arrival’ is a better cliche than VW’s botched choice words to introduce this car: VW Says:  “””  ‘ Iconic’ is, perhaps, a word bandied around all too freely but, when applied to the mould-breaking Golf GTI, it can be used with genuine justification. “””   Forgive the slight lack of enthusiasm here.  But the GTI Clubsport Edition 40 is really not doing it for me.  A bump in power to 265 ponies, and 290 on a brief turbo overboost, is great from the Golf R-derived turbo 2.0-liter four.  The car delivers a seriously underwhelming 6.3-second sprint to 62-mph …

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2017 Ford GT - Digital Color Visualizer 17

2017 Ford GT – Rendered COLORS Visualizer in 20 New Shades

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Updated 4.6.16 with New Photos and Digitally-Rendered Images Instead of the hundreds of custom shades and multiple angles, we only have a handful of digitally-rendered color options for the exciting Ford GT supercar. Why? It has been a long week of many frantic Detroit reveals, and Photoshop prefers to crash right when you are in the middle of something great. =] We are still trying to perfect a color—> black or color —> white transformation, but it is not easy to accomplish with respectable results. But was it a total loss? Not at all! Many of the new colors are …

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Bentley Continental GT Speed Black Edition(4)

3.9s, 206MPH 2017 Bentley Continental GT Speed BLACK EDITION

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Bentley just released info on the new Conti GT Speed: the Black Edition! This run-out special adds about 10 horsepower for a grand total of 642, and more torque throughout the rev range due to a reflash of the car’s computer systems.  The result?  The quickest and fastest production Bentley of all time!  3.9-seconds to 60-mph and 206-mph at the top end are both slightly quicker than the standard GT Speed. The visuals are the real impact: gloss-black details throughout, plus four colors of contrast splitter and mirrors available for that final moneypunch. The GT Speed Black Editions arrive this …

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SUPERCAR of the YEAR - 2016 Jaguar F-Type R AWD Coupe 75

SUPERCAR of the YEAR – 2016 Jaguar F-Type R AWD Coupe

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It seems like just yesterday that the arrival of the F-Type R out front of CRD brought literal tears to my eyes. Even before seeing it, we heard it rumbling up the road and immediately got weak in the knees. As the third review article of this stunning machine, we’re going to switch up for format dramatically.  Into a list — as there are so many reasons to love the F-Type R AWD, we’re struggling to even vocalize the feelings. In short, this vehicle is not just a Car of the Year contender in 2016.  That seems like too small …

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Concept Flashback - 2001 Chevrolet BORREGO Concept 2

Concept Flashback – 2001 Chevrolet BORREGO Concept – Reborn Subaru Brat?!

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At first sight, the short-wheelbase pickup truck concept from Chevy in the early naughties seems to be a baja or rally variant of some kind of truck in the existing range.  Perhaps the S10 or even the Blazer of the 1990s?  Surely a small-block V8 up front, right? In fact, this machine is something else entirely. Under its trendy panels and reconfigurable tailgate — to allow the two-seater to add two more in back — the Borrego is actually an AWD Subaru under its Chevy-tastic panels.  Turbo four and all…. Needless to say, this ‘Brat 2.0’ was never built… as …

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Concept Debrief - 1980 Lamborghini ATHON Speedster by Bertone 15

Concept Debrief – 1980 Lamborghini ATHON Speedster by Bertone

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Bertone (bear-tony) created this one-off Lamborghini concept as a design showcase of the studio’s skills, plus to kick a bit of good energy Lambo’s way. By the end of the 1970s, Lamborghini lad launched and produced a variety of non-hits: GT cars and luxury shooting brakes that never found the same eager audience as the earlier Miura and Countach smash-hits. The 1980 ATHON Speedster hoped to evolve the avant-garde looks of those two icons, but in a high-tech was befitting the first computerized decade: the 1980s. Achieving visual impact on par with the Countach would take a revolution in almost …

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Top 7 Soviet Concept Cars – GAZ Streamliners, Armored Snowmobile, JetCar and HoverCar!

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GAZ is best known these days as the maker of the iconic Volga limousine, but the Gorkovsky Avtomobilny Zavod (Gorky Car Plant) was also tasked with creating one-off prototypes and concept vehicles throughout the Cold War period. Their feasibility for mass production still remains questionable all this time later, but they are wacky and show clever ingeniuty.  And a willingness to experiment! Here are six extra curious models, starting with the most recent and moving back in time from 1962 to 1950.  You may note the striking evolution of GAZ vehicles in this same period.  From streamlined aero prototypes at first, …

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2016 Pininfarina H2 Speed – Monaco Palace Intro to EV Champion Prince Albert

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The stunning Pininfarina H2 Speed just scored one of the highest honors in automobiledom: a royal invite to the palace of Monaco! HSH Prince Albert was the honorable host for this glittery and exclusive look at a 503-horsepower exotic that runs on pure hydrogen.  It combines the massive thrust of eAWD via potent electric motors, plus the rapid-refill potential of hydrogen.  Not quite an open-road dream versus gasoline’s ubiquitous availability, but the H2 Speed does show promise for an all-day blast around a racetrack.  This is something that no full EV can promise, as their batteries go dead in about an hour …

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2018 TESLA Model 3 – Design Analysis, 50 Images and Flyarounds Inside and Out

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This is not going to be a boozy lovesong about Tesla changing the world. As you have probably seen from the deluge of media coverage, the Tesla Model 3 arrived just after dark in SoCal last night, to much fanfare and fanboy eagerness. Initial reaction: horror. Horror and revulsion. Why, oh why, Tesla, if you can change the world and make the best EVs of all time… can you not realize how ugly the new Tesla models have become?  It is in the details like the formless faces, the bloated rooflines and the generic detailing of the Model X, the very-tired-looking Model …

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RoboRace Launches Driverless Formula E Series – Signs Daniel Simon as Lead Designer

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Formula E is quite a hit so far, with a global schedule and many new entries for the 2016 and 2017 seasons.  Even Jaguar is signed up for next year! These McLaren-powered electric racecars have overcome much skepticism already as a green F1 rival.  And they are taking things much further today. RoboRace.  RoboCar. RoboWin!? Daniel Simon is kindof an asshole but is a genius designer.  His book Cosmic Motors is visually outstanding, if VERY light on actual story value or depth of universe. Put it this way: if it were a PDF, you’d be through it in under 90 …

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Review + Videos – 2016 Nissan TITAN XD 5.0L Cummins TDV8 – The CRUSHER is HD Truck of the Year!

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As you may have noticed, there is usually lead time for these full reviews after the cars leave the CRD speed fleet.  Time to process and refine the review content is usually really helpful, despite that seeming counterintuitive. Not in this case.  Titan XD jumps the line, and is firmly top-of-mind a day after its departure. The Titan XD blew us away so thoroughly with its unique skills and capabilities that we’re tempted to name it HD Truck of the Year.  Not just tempted, it’s done. This is our HD TOTY for 2016. Diving in deep yesterday for the drive videos helped crack …

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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

KAEGE.de Reveals LED Projector Headlamps for Classic 911s – Even Carbon Optics and Black Chrome Bezels!

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One of the suckiest parts about driving a vintage supercar is the lighting.  LED technology has revolutionized how much style and light you can have in front of you on the roads in 2016… but many classic cars are stuck with their dim, sealed-beam incandescents. No more for 911 owners! Germany’s Kaege.de has rolled out a special line of top-quality LED upgrades for the Porsche 911.  Ones that fit the car’s status and performance, as well as design aesthetics and overall road presence. Very high-quality OSRAM LED elements go into these custom-made lamps, and they even come with a three-year …

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TopCar GLE INFERNO Coupe 1

TopCar GLE INFERNO Coupe – Wide, Low and Ready to Brawl!

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Wide, low and in a full blackout!?  Am i looking in a mirror or at the hottest GLE upgrade on the market? Updated 3.28.16 with live photos TopCar is taking its Porsche love to new heights in 2016: a major stand at the Geneva show set the brand on level footing with other supertuners like Brabus, KAHN Design and Novitec Group.   TopCar is focused on all Porsche models, clearly, but also now with great new upgrades for Range Rover, BMW and Mercedes SUVs. The latest creation?  An AMG GLE dubbed the INFERNO! Bold names are not something TopCar needs help …

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900HP, ~1.7s 2016 Porsche 919 Hybrid – Upgraded Aero, Revised 400HP eBoost Detailed

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Porsche is keeping its cards close to their chest entering the 2016 FIA WEC race series, with numerous tweaks to the car all shrouded in a bit of mystery. Per usual, then, for the 2015 LeMans winners! The rules have changed for the top LMP1 race class in 2016, allowing even less gasoline in the overall mix, but upping the amount of electric power teams can use. As such, the 2.0-liter V4 turbo engine in the 919 Hybrid makes less power than last year in most circumstances: from “well above” 500HP to “below 500HP.” Opaque enough for you?  =] Total power …

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1985 ROUSH Protofab Ford Mustang GTO – Animated Technical Illustrations

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Technical Illustrator Roy Scorer is back with another detailed look below the skin of an iconic racecar! This time we’re looking at the 1985 ROUSH Protofab race team’s Mustang GTO.  This is really a classic silhouette racer with very little chassis similarity to the road cars.  But a similar shouty V8, fettled by some of Dearborn’s finest tuners, as was available to Fox-body 5.0 lovers! Here is a reference photo of this mean race prototype in real life to set the tone..  The let’s peel back those clothes! Check out Roy’s other work at his author link above or new website …

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PART THREE – #NYIAS Showfloor Mega Gallery (+150 Photos)

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Wrapping up a ridiculously busy week of new car debuts at the New York auto show — in the best way possible! How? A highball of pure Fireball? By sharing all the great showfloor action in a full-screen mega gallery. Interesting cars in this third installment?  The new Camaro ZL1, Abarth 124, Chevy Cruze 5-Door, Nissan TITAN XD Crew Cab with the gasoline V8, more photos of the new Toyota 86 with its fresh nose and LEDs all around, Volvo S90 and even the TITAN Warrior Concept. The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and new Jeep Grand Cherokee’s Summit and Trailhawk, …

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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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#NYIAS Live – Showfloor Mega Gallery – Part One in 222 Photos!

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Action-packed New York auto show this year! Much new and very hot metal to see and touch, with highlights including the new GT-R, the 911R, Civic Hatchback and Prius Prime.  MX-5 RF (retractable fastback) is cool too, as is the new 718 Boxster and Buick Encore with its sharp and premium new LEDs. Also included below is the first look at the new Subaru Impreza, Jaguar F-Type SVR and 2018 VW Tiguan. #NYIAS Live – Showfloor Mega Gallery

2017 Infiniti QX70 Limited – Live from New York

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NY SOV? Share of Voice was the original acronym above. But NY State of Mind seems like a better headline for the new QX70 Limited’s moody, modern aesthetic. The Infiniti QX70 Limited is fresh for 2017 with a slew of design and luxury modifications to the original super-SUV shape. Rear-drive or AWD and running a V6 exclusively these days, the new QX70 Limited debuts the fresh grille that will adorn all QX70’s from mid-summertime… and more. A new lower fascia in contrast bright pewter is eye-catching, as are the new LED DRLs taking the spot of the round foglamps on …

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2017 Acura NSX GT3 – V6TT, RWD Racecar is FIA-Ready (+Video)

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Acura just ripped the covers off its fully race-ready NSX GT3 racecar in New York. And the most intriguing elements of the machine?  Perhaps the total drivetrain revamp versus the AWD, triple-motor SH-AWD production model. FIA GT3 rules do not have a hybrid slot yet, so this NSX GT3 swaps its clever electric motors for pure turbocharged thrust. The main engine is the same as the production NSX, but the rear-drive conversion brings in a sequential six-speed paddle-shifter and likely some very clever racing differential tech. Acura plans to race this car in FIA GT3 classes starting in fall 2016, …

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NY Debuts – 2017 GMC Terrain NIGHTFALL Edition

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Black Pack is not really a popular term in the auto world.  But how many other ways are there to say it!?   Midnight, Black Badge, Black Out… not really ideal either Nightfall is the latest descriptor to be applied to this hot and very-stylish look — and comes to the GMC Terrain for 2017.  Just the SLT and SLE-2 models in the mid-range will feature this optional upgrade, which comes in four colors with a dechromed, dark charcoal grille, dark trim details and black-accented alloys.  It does wonders for the style of the giant-inside crossover! Just one image of …

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1972 Porsche 911 Evergreen by KAEGE.de

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Imagine loving a 70s Porsche so much that you rebody the entire machine in carbon fiber and ramp up the power to a very-modern 300 ponies? First off, how could anyone not love their vintage 911 this much?!  Secondly, the upgrades here are so loving and thoughtful that they deserve a big salute. A weight savings of almost 400 pounds is pretty sweet no matter what the starting point. So is the 3.6-liter, air-cooled boxer engine!  Classic style for the lights, of course, but updated to the latest high-dollar Osram LED optics.  Same for the new li-ion LITE-BLOX racing battery, modern seats and …

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New York SoM! 2017 Infiniti QX70 Limited Special Pips Big Debuts with Early Reveal

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NY SOV? Share of Voice was the original acronym above. But NY State of Mind seems like a better headline for the new QX70 Limited’s moody, modern aesthetic. The Infiniti QX70 Limited is fresh for 2017 with a slew of design and luxury modifications to the original super-SUV shape. Rear-drive or AWD and running a V6 exclusively these days, the new QX70 Limited debuts the fresh grille that will adorn all QX70’s from mid-summertime… and more. A new lower fascia in contrast bright pewter is eye-catching, as are the new LED DRLs taking the spot of the round foglamps on …

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Road Test Review – 2016 Nissan Altima SL – Fresh Face for World’s-Smoothest Sedan

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One of comedian Amy Schumer’s bits comes to mind as we sit down to write up this Altima review. “You’d bang me, but you wouldn’t blog about it…” The Altima is fresh for 2016 with a mini nip/tuck front and rear, updated tech and even more efficiency for the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This update is a light refresh, and is part of the new automaker strategy of lowering product cycle times from around five years before to less than three now.  Technology and style trends are moving so rapidly that a four-year-old car is easily one of the most …

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MANIFESTO Wins Ferrari Top Design Challenge 2015

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Ferrari crowned the winner of its latest Top Design Challenge recently… and it is not the one you would think! Nor the one with the most votes online.  The popular vote went to deEsfera, but the unanimous jury selection — MANIFESTO — came in fourth online.     MANIFESTO by ISD-RUBIKA out of France was the absolute winner of the challenge.  The judges loved its fully-developed powertrain, cabin packaging and innovative inside-out appearance for the floating rear canopy.  This giant space between the rear wheels and the inner chassis/engine compartment appears to have been the defining design element adored by …

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VOLVO Launches POLESTAR Performance Parts Lineup

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Volvo completed its full buyout of the Polestar tuning business in 2015, and is now rolling out a full lineup of performance parts under this bright blue halo. Yes, there are now a dozen or more ways to unlock more speed, style and stance for your cherished Volvo — and all come with a Polestar badge to set the tone. So far, we have chassis mods, wheels, exhausts, intakes, springs, ECU kits, exterior and interior upgrades for the S60, V60 and XC60.  Coming soon are PPP upgrades for the new XC90 and all the rest. Check out the deep upgrade …

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2017 Toyota 86 – First Look At Revamped FR-S + Corolla iM and Yaris iA

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The Scion FR-S will live on, of course, in the Toyota range with a new name and style for 2017. Dubbed just the 86 — versus GT86 in Euorpe and elsewhere — the car has aggressive new LEDs for the nose and tail.  All-new lighting is complemented by a fresh nose appearance, without the lower amber blinker bulbs. Looks like these we’re relocated up into the main light units.  Slick new taillamps are sexy too, but the tail does lacks the fresh bumper treatment of the nose.  But integrated LED rear turn signals are a nice upgrade along with the …

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2017 SPYKER C8 Preliator – Sharp 3rd-Gen Exotic is Coming to America!

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The world’s most curious supercar made a glittery debut in Geneva and is now on the way to the New York auto show! This return to the USA for Spyker is a pretty big deal.  As we all know, this market can be make-or-break for low-volume manufacturers.  Spyker’s new Coventry factory puts in in great company: Morgan, Aston Martin, McLaren and Jaguar are fairly closeby. Hopefully this localization helps Spyker navigate its way back onto US roads as well as our auto shows! On to the main event: the new PRELIATOR! This means warrior in Latin and marks the third …

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Design Talent Showcase – Alfa Romeo AW30 by Olcay Tuncay Karabulut

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  Some fantastic, out-of-this-world designs to feature today from Turkey! Olcay Karabulut’s Alfa Romeo AW30 design takes a look into the future of renewable-powered racecars.  And not just coal-fired EVs… this AW30 hopes to hit 200-mph around the world’s racetracks thanks to two constants: sun and wind. The solar component is intended as the solution under 100-mph, after which it synthesizes energy via dedicated turbines.  This might sound far-fetched, but is certainly worth exploring.  If only for the unique design solutions it inspired. The proportions take a radical shift: much longer and lower than current F1 cars.  Next, the intakes …

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2017 Bugatti CHIRON – Colors Visualizer – 50 Shades of 300mph BOSS!

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Excitement around the all-new Bugatti Chiron is palpable in the car world.  Ahead of first arrivals to the lucky few owners later in 2016, we’re prepared a three-angle look at the Chiron in more than 70 different colors. Most of these are screencapped drafts along the way in Photoshop — those are in the three-column gallery below.  The main, higher-quality renderings are a single layout directly below. Interesting notes?  Beyond the 310-mph Vmax of the speedo??! How gorgeous and special the Chiron is, mostly.  The design itself is sexy, aero-honed and also quite artful.  All at once! The car has …

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Inside the Dream Factory – McLaren Track22 Product Roadmap

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McLaren Automotive is a clear favorite in the supercar world.  Just look at the rocket-like launch trajectory of the firm in just six years!  It is causing serious pain to rivals Ferrari and Lamborghini, all while delivering great pleasure to its growing owner base.  The launches come fast and furious from Woking, however, and it can be confusing.  Or, just irritating… depending on how recently your new McLaren was superseded by an even newer, hotter model. So it is good to hear that there is method to the rapid product rollouts, ultra-short model cycles of McLaren Cars. Track22 is what McLaren …

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2016 McLaren 570S GT4 and Sprint Unleash Extreme Aero, De-Luxed Cabins

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McLaren just revealed its racecar versions of the new 570S: the FIA-approved GT4 model that is ready to go racing worldwide right from the factory.  And the real star?  The 570S Sprint~! The Sprint is our favorite because it is so pure.  The GT4 car’s aero upgrades, de-restricted engine and exhausts, Pirelli slicks and beefed-up race suspension…. but without the GT4’s standard roll cage, fire extinguisher and other mandatory elements.  Such things like power restrictors are needed for the GT4 class… but not in the 570S Sprint!   That means less weight for trackday individuals versus race teams.   Estimated weight …

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2016 Cadillac ATS and CTS Score Much-Needed BLACK PACKS!

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So, so thrilled to see this easy and effective design change for the Cadillac CTS and ATS.  We have griped tirelessly about their tacky chrome, ugly wheels and “boring, old-man style.”   And it looks like Cadillac was listening!  (See CT6 Black Pack and ATS Coupe Black Pack renders…) The new Black Chrome Packages for the ATS and CTS are fairly comprehensive, too. Wheels, trims, grille finishes, window surrounds…. all take a bath in this stylish new dark pewter finish. The third reason we love the Black Pack announcement? ACTUAL PHOTOS! Shock! Cadillac has succumbed to major GM think in …

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700HP, 2.5s 2017 REZVANI Beast X – Wild Carbon Wings, Monster Boost for Street-Legal Racecar

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You are being hunted. The Rezvani Beast X is out for blood.  That much is clear from its 2.5-second 60-mph sprint and tail-out track action! This upgraded model is debuting in Dallas this week with a shockingly sexy carbon-fiber aero kit, a new engine and even optional paddle-shift for the 2017 modelyear. The California team will build just five of these X Beasts for sale worldwide, with pricing from $325k and the order books open now.  (The Beast Speedster is the car pictured here in grey, while the X is previewed in a few of the red photos — but not all …

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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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TechArt Magnum SPORT for Porsche Cayenne is New Carbon Flagship

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Great showing at Geneva for TechArt! They have a wild Cayenne for every level of madness…. right up to the new exposed-carbon Magnum Sport. But below the Magnums are many flavors of hot exhaust, rims, bodykit elements and more — all chosen and sold individually to the Cayenne lover in your life.     2016 TechArt Magnum SPORT Leonberg, March 9th, 2016   For over a decade, four TECHART Magnum Generations are synonymous with unsurpassed Premium Refinement based on the Porsche Cayenne models. Renowned for their unmistakable design, breathtaking performance and superior quality.   From March 3rd – 13th, the …

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Must-Hear Monster! 700HP TECHART Magnum in 35 New Photos, Engine MP3s

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In the TechArt world, Magnum is shorthand for every Cayenne upgrade in the catalog!  The team has been finalizing their style,. performance and tech upgrades for this third-generation Cayenne MAGNUM over the last few months — and the results are pretty intense! The exterior upgrades fit all 2015-current Cayenne models, while the optional suspension and exhaust mods also enhance everything from the Cayenne S Diesel to the full-fat Turbo. An extra 120 horsepower come from all-new turbochargers, engine breathing and cooling on the Turbo — with 640HP available at all times, and the massive 700HP coming on steam with the …

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Dream Garage – Superformance LOLA MkIII Can-Am Spyders

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Lola racecars are extremely special for their value-for-money today, racing pedigree, and also their incredibly timeless grace and beauty. This was a racing team directly formed in the late 1950s with one goal: build a car from scratch to win LeMans. The resulting semi-monocoque chassis design – now known as a unibody – was revolutionary at the time of frame-based racers from nearly every other racing company and nearly every single road car. A semi-monocoque? Oh yes. The other part is also pretty advanced for the time: a steel spaceframe for the engine and rear suspension cradle. In fact, the …

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7 New JEEP Concepts Hiding Among Easter Jeep Safari Madhouse! +30 Live Photos

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There is alot of love and alot of great tradition on display for this year’s seven-pack of all-new concept vehicles for the MOAB Safari. One in bright green will be churning up much of the excitement… and that is the Trailcat! An ultra-intense race truck aimed at the glacier-climbers of Iceland… this off-roader really does pack the engine of the Hellcat.  707-horsepower through a stickshift will make quite the entrance wherever it goes! In terms of production feasibility… this dusty desert party of Jeeps also has some clear winners beyong the Trailcat.  The Crew CHief 715 is the clearest production …

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2016 VUHL 05 Updated for London Motor Show

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A refreshed VUHL 05 is now available for global trackday aces with pricing from around $100k for this cross between a Lotus and Radical. The UK sportscar industry is not only an inspiration for this trackday special, but also a target for its dual-use configuration. VUHL hopes to have certification for English roads in the near future. But even though road and track are both viable in a VUHL… one is far more heavily emphasized. A completely smooth underbody is race-ready, as is the doorless racing frame below the skin. You can guess how fast the 3.7-second VUHL is on …

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Wildest Geneva Reveal – 2017 Lazareth LM847 – Monsterbike Runs 500HP Maserati V8!

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Imagine all the show-stopping appeal and road presence of the Dodge Tomahawk V10 concept from the early 2000s… but made real, ride-able and road-legal acros Europe! And then imagine swapping the V10 for a much-better-sounding Maserati V8!? The results would be world-shaking. Such is the case for the custom-engineered Lazareth LM847 out of France.  This firm has been making some insane custom bikes, quads and car/bike hybrids for years, but this LM847 takes the firm to a whole new level. This seems like the perfect bike for the Clooney crew to thrum around Lake Como. But also a great fit …

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2016 KTM X-Bow GT Black Carbon 11

2016 KTM X-Bow GT Black Carbon

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The world’s favorite KTM car pro’s have a new special for us! The X-BOW GT Black Edition is an all-black, all-carbon flagship of the street-going KTM ‘Crossbow’ lineup. Wimmer RST has this gorgeous new special on display in Geneva this week along with the championship-winning X-BOW GT4 racecar. The new X-BOW Black Carbon is even upgraded versus that racecar, however. In addition to the CF tub, the new Wimmer special integrates carbon fiber for dozens of other components.  The entire undertray is a new carbon-fiber execution delivering race levels of grip on the road.  Exposed-weave carbon fiber now takes the …

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TechArt Debuts 2017 911 and 911 Turbo – PnP Powerkits and Uniquely Sexy Aero

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TechArt just launched its new bodywork, suspension, exhaust and cabin mods for the new 2017 911 Turbo and 2017 911 Carreras — and makes them more mouth-watering than ever! The beauty of the TechArt programs for the 911 is that they are subtle, yet very convincing.  Without the TechArt badges, the quality and integration into the original Porsche designs helps the parts disappear into the whole machine. This is in contrast to many of the very-obvious aftermarket upgrades out there. The favorite among this group?  Has to be the bright blue C2S. This TechArt stunner has the curb appeal to stop …

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2016 BMW Vision Next 100 – Nightmare Blob Shows Why BMW Sales Are Tanking

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Ready for 5000 German words you cannot possibly care about!? Let’s dive in to the BMW Next 100 Years press conference and new-concept debut, while stripping out 95-percent of the unintelligible corporate babble below. First things first: BMW Group and BMW pressclub have new websites.  Yay! But they do not work as easily as the previous ones. Boo.  At least the zip files do not create unmoveable, undeletable 3GB desktop bombs like BMW USA PressClub’s.   The renderings do turn from brown to pink when saved on a PC tho.  Bonus — some fails live on!   Dear BMW.  Flatten …

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Geneva 2016 – Showfloor Mega Gallery – Part Two

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So, so much hotness in here. Aston Martin DB11, Huayra BC, Apollo Arrow, Remac Concept One, Ferrari GTC4 Lusso, new Spyker and Zenvo’s….! Our favorite is split between the new Apollo and the DS E-Tense.   Geneva 2016 – Showfloor Mega Gallery – Part Two      

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2017 Abarth 124 Spider – Boosted Turbo, Shouty Exhaust and Butch Body Mods

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Stunning new Fiat from Abarth at Geneva this year — proving the in-house tuner is still a big asset in the brand’s expansion worldwide.  The Mirafiori speed demons have wasted no time upgrading the design, performance and panache of the adorable baby Fiat: the new 124 Spider. From its cute looks emerges yet another harsh, focused look at what Abarth does best.  The scorpion logo makes sense the first time you fire up one of their specials: pops and brummy exhaust and engine notes that recall Maserati much more than Mazda. Then you turn to see… and are shocked that …

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Best of Geneva – 2016 Abarth 124 Rally Prototype – 300HP Kicks Off 2017 Abarth Racing Revival

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  In case the hot new Abarth Fiat 124 Spider were not enough to get your heart revving, Abarth Racing has brought along an even hotter version! A rear-drive rally racecar that started life as a ragtop!?  Sounds like a winner to us.  And it definitely looks like a winner too. A slightly raised ride height, boosted engine putting down 300Hp, plus a locking rear differential promise exciting, tail-out action to rally fans next year. Custom fender extensions, sill extensions and brake air vents behind the back axle speak to this car’s gravel-slinging dreams.  As does its gigantic, fire-spitting single …

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Design Analysis – 2016 Alfa Romeo DISCO VOLANTE SPYDER By Touring Superleggera + 1952 C52

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It takes a master designer to reinterpret a retro model in a desirable, futuristic modern car.  The fail count is much larger than the short success list of the New Beetle, Ford GT and perhaps MINI. Fails?  Fiat 500, Lamborghini Miura, Ford Thunderbird, Chevrolet HHR, Plymouth Prowler, etc. etc. Among supercars, it is even harder to continue designs from so long ago.  Why? The designs were always extra wacky, with limited appeal even in their original iterations. In addition, supercar shoppers are always craving the next hotness.  The unattainable, never-before-seen machines that will bring traffic to a halt around you. Therefore, Touring Superleggera struck a …

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First Drive Photos + Video! 2016 FERRARI California T

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Feast your eyes and ears on the new Cali Turbo! We have some incredible insights from the drive, to be published tomorrow. =] Until then, prepare to be blasted by the quad pipes in the below video.  Plus a rather obscene 200 photos of the 2+2 hardtop cabriolet. Power from the new twin-turbo 3.9-liter V8 comes in at a stout 560HP and 552-pound-feet.  The engine still loves revs through the seven-speed paddle-shift to make its most ferocious power — but there is big-boost torque throughout the midrange too.  At full chat, the new engine lights up the Cali T like …

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Design Analysis – 2016 Pininfarina H2 Speed and Sigma Grand Prix

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This is one of the first times someone has dusted off the idea of a hydrogen FCEV supercar in quite a while.  The most notable effort was likely from BMW more than a decade ago. There is certainly promise in a 180-second refill from a hydrogen station, then all the benefits of a full-EV drivetrain. Namely, SPEED! The H2 Speed is quoted at some quite impressive figures.  100-kph flashes by in a 3.4-second whir, and on to a max speed of 186-mph. DESIGN ANALYSIS All this is wrapped in the purest snow white panelwork you’ve ever seen.  The bubble-like nose …

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2017 Rolls-Royce BLACK BADGE Ghost and Wraith – Best of Geneva 2016

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  Hell yes! After griping about Rolls-Royce descending into Miata and Aston special-edition hell a few months ago, we’re thrilled to report the latest exclusives from Rolls are — in fact — cool as fahk. The Black Badge launch appeals to modern trendsetters in a way that no recent Roller has. How? Dark, mean, sinister and effortlessly chic.  The first two models to benefit are the Ghost and the Wraith — which drop all brightwork in favor of satin black for the grilles, trims and even flying lady up front!  The standard triple-dipped brightwork around the pillars and door-handles is …

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MANSORY Geneva 2016 – AMG GLE63, Range Rover Sport and Bentley Flying Spur

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Roundup of the stragglers from Mansory’s Geneva showstand: the new GLE63, RRS and Bentley Flying Spur. Mercedes-AMG GLE63 by MANSORY WORLD PREMIERE at the 2016 Geneva Int. Motor Show     Sporty Power SUV ­– MANSORY refines the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 to a masculine wide body   All over the world the name MANSORY is synonymous with the refinement of luxury cars. With the new programme for the Mercedes AMG GLE 63 the company in Brand, Bavaria, once again recommends itself as the top address for sporty accessories, powerful increases in performance and an exciting body design.   Sporty elegance characterises the …

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Geneva Debuts – 2016 AMG GT-S by MANSORY

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  Another half-debut, half-preview from Mansory.  The cars definitely exist — as their real-life cabins show — but these outdoor renders are very obviously images vs photos. Even so, the incredible new reverse ducted wings of the Mansory GTS make themselves very well-known!     2016 MANSORY AMG GT-S WORLD PREMIERE at the 2016 Geneva Int. Motor Show     MANSORY rocks the Mercedes-AMG GT S   Refining super cars is more than just a business for MANSORY. The attention to detail and the love of all that is special and unique is what drives us to produce out-of-the-ordinary automobiles. …

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Geneva Debuts – 2016 MANSORY 4XX Siracusa Ferrari

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Official details and some very detailed preview images of the new Siracusa package from Mansory.  Now fully redesigned for the 488 GTB!   2016 MANSORY 4XX Siracusa Ferrari         PRESS RELEASE March 2016   WORLD PREMIERE at the 2016 Geneva Int. Motor Show     MANSORY 4XX SIRACUSA – spectacular mid-engined sports car with Italian roots   With the 4XX MANSORY now presents the second generation of the super sports car SIRACUSA. The first model was based on the Ferrari 458, the successor, the Ferrari 488, has now been given a complete makeover. Centrepiece of the complete customisation …

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2016 Rolls-Royce PHANTOM – Books Closing on Best-Ever RR Model Family

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This would be a curious announcement from anyone but Rolls-Royce. Basically, below they celebrate the Phantom VII and its production run from 2003-2011, then as the Phantom II from 2012 to 2016.  Its four variants (EWB, DHC, Coupe and Sedan) are unquestionably the most iconic super-lux limousines in the world.  And this really does deserve a champagne-pop for every occasion to celebrate. After all, the Phantom’s success under BMW was certainly never guaranteed.  In the Chronology of Phantoms, what we know as a Phantom I (mid-2000s) was actually the seventh in a long line of Rollers.  Anyone noting the timeline’s …

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Geneva Debuts – 2016 Volvo XC90 EXCELLENCE – Quad-Throne PHEV Limo for Davos Crowd

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  Not just Rangies… but S-Classes and Audi A8’s too! The superlux livery market just found a new favorite: the XC90 T8 Excellence. Plugin-hybrid to ease your (guilty) conscience?  Check. SUV-easy entry and exit, plus jumbo cargo bay?  Check. Individual, 787-first-class seats in back with a full-length console and nap-ready headrests? Check. 4×4 grip for ski holidays or slushy commutes home?  Check. Subtle to the point of almost disappearing behind the bright window-edges and deep-tinted glass all around?  Check. The new XC90 Excellence certainly looks great on paper as the next favorite limousine for the Davos crowd. The Excellence order …

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~3.8s 2017 BMW M3/M4 Competition Pack – Gloss Black Trims, +20HP and Standard Sport Exhaust

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Competition Pack from BMW M certainly implies track battles and knife-edged races against the stopwatch.  Every advantage that can be fed down from the top 500HP M4 GTS will be precious seconds closer to the top of any laptime board. But Competition Pack has a second meaning to us: the M3 and M4 are feeling major heat from all sides, in a segment they once owned wholeheartedly. The Lexus RC, C63 and even Cadillac ATS-V are all very valid, and oftentimes preferred, rivals to the BMW twins.  Therefore, the Competition Pack helps address some of the odd standard M3/M4 style …

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2016 BRABUS ROCKET 900 Coupe 8

Geneva Debuts – 2016 BRABUS ROCKET 900 S65 V12TT Coupe

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Brace yourself for a big week of new exotics! Let’s kick things off with the insanely powerful, yet quite suble, Brabus Rocket 900. Based on the rear-drive S65 Coupe, this Rocket 900 upgrade bumps displacement from the V12TT up to 6.3-liters.  A full engine makeovertakes power up to 887HP and a stonking 1100-plus pound-feet of torque. Accordingly, the performance of this car above 100-mph is in Veyron-like territory.  Yet also packing four giant thrones and a pretty big trunk. Even better?  This Brabus 900 pack is set to be offered on the ragtop too!     2016 BRABUS ROCKET 900 …

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2017 Acura NSX WTF 15

@Acura: $200k NSX Is WTF, Dickslap Sticker Shock

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Are you f***ing shi****** me? Talk about bait and switch. This new NSX just doubled in price somehow, overnight. What was widely thought to be an $80k PHEV supercar is suddenly carrying a $168k base price. And that is slightly stripped out. Painted wheels?  $1500.  SiriusXM carbon roof?  $6k.  CCM brakes?  $11k.  CF exterior?  $10k. It goes on and on, until the bombshell $200k total gives you a dickslap at the Summary screen. These options read like someone literally did a “times 2” excel function for the original prices.  Then pasted it down the entire column. Shocked. The colors, by …

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2016 BMW X6 FALCON by AC Schnitzer 21

Best of Geneva – 2016 BMW X6 FALCON by AC Schnitzer

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  ACS has gone to town on their new X6 Falcon flagship! The engine kit is available for both the 35i and 50i models, bumping horsepower a cool 75 for the top-flight 650HP output of the showcar. It is the tasteful and hi-viz exterior makeover that really catches the eye, though.  Quite an X6 Evo…. and definitely with more visual intrigue than the X6M.     2016 BMW X6 FALCON by AC Schnitzer Powerful, fast and impressive The X6 FALCON by AC Schnitzer  It flexes its wings, applies the gas and shoots towards its prey like a torpedo. The latest exceptional …

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2016 Ferrari 488 Spider – London Launch Party + V8TT Sound Samples

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Updated 2.26.16 with 30 new photos from the car’s London launch party.  The nose looks far better in real life than it did on the initial renders and autoshow photos.   Gorgeous reveals by the dozen in Frankfurt this week, with only Aston and McLaren declining to launch something new and fairly important. Superlux EVs might be the defining show theme, but supercar rivalries are a close second. Lamborghini’s new Huracan Spyder, the McLaren 650S Spider and this brand-new 488 Spider are all viciously competitve with one another. Performance is roughly the same for all three as well: 3.0-second launches to …

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