Posts in NICE CARS
One-Of-A-Kind Rolls-Royce Reportedly Sells for $13 Million USD

After making its debut at the Concorso d’Eleganza in Villa d’Este, Italy over the weekend, the Rolls-Royce Sweptail could be the most expensive car ever, with early estimates putting the price somewhere in the $13 million USD. The handcrafted vehicle takes inspiration from the traditional coach builds that made Rolls-Royce famous in the 1920s and 1930s. Custom made for a particular buyer, the brand says they wanted to combine aspects from the old coach-style vehicle with modern day technology.

“This individual approached the marque with his own idea of a two-seat Rolls-Royce that he wanted to be created in the here and now,” Rolls-Royce said in a press release. “That motor car is here, now and is christened ‘Sweptail’. In a nod to the swept-tail of certain Rolls-Royces from the 1920s, admired by the client so much, he asked Rolls-Royce to re-imagine this feature on his one-off motor car.”

The two-door coupe is the only version of its kind with some very distinct features along with some we’re used to seeing on traditional Rolls-Royce models. The roof of the vehicle dips down into a rounded edge along the rear, a design which the customer chose after asking the brand to emulate what’s usually seen on racing yachts. According to the report, the customer is an enthusiast of racing yachts, and Rolls-Royce wanted to create something that would satisfy all of his needs.

“Sweptail is the automotive equivalent of Haute Couture. It is a Rolls-Royce designed and hand-tailored to fit a specific customer,” said Director of Design Giles Taylor. “This customer came to the House of Rolls-Royce with an idea, shared in the creative process where we advised him on his cloth, and then we tailored that cloth to him. You might say we cut the cloth for the suit of clothes that he will be judged by.”

source:hypebeast

source:hypebeast

The Lamborghini Huracán Gets a Track-Ready Body Upgrade and High-Tech Tune

Through the addition of a carbon aerodynamic-enhancement kit, high-tech forged wheels and a twin-supercharger V-10 engine, customisation specialist Novitec Torado has given the Lamborghini Huracán RWD Coupe a punchy new makeover. Already responsible for a number of high-performance updates to the Huracán, the German-based company has added lightweight carbon components that have been wind-tunnel tested, a twin-supercharger conversion that bumps peak power to 611kW/830hp and high-performance exhaust systems, while a competition interior with carbon racing seats and rollover cage are also available for track use. With tweaked bodywork and addition of a spoiler, this customisation has resulted in a leaner, race-ready appearance to what many already believe to be one of Lamborghini’s sportiest models. For more information visit the Novitec Torado site.

 

SOURCE: HYPEBEAST.COM

Ferrari Debuts Its First Four-Seater With a V8 Engine, the GTC4Lusso T

At the upcoming Paris Motor Show, Italian car manufacturer Ferrari is set to unveil the GTC4Lusso T — its latest grand tourer. This vehicle will be the first four-seat Ferrari that features a turbocharged V8 engine, making it an ideal sporty daily car. Featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.9 liter V8, the car is capable of 600 horsepower and 560 pound-feet torque. Additionally, the latest iteration abandons the all-wheel-drive of its predecessor, instead opting for a Slip Slide Control four-wheel steering rear-wheel-drive setup. The GTC4Lusso T will be marketed as an complementary vehicle, rather than a replacement with its comfort and performance-focused design. Head over to Ferrari for more information.

This Rare 1957 BMW 507 Roadster Series I Is up for Auction Now at RM Sotheby’s

The 1957 BMW 507 Roadster Series I first came into existence from renowned European car importer Max Hoffman stubbornly convincing BMW’s big brass to sidestep production on its customary microcars to instead take a stab at designing a hybrid speedster model. The renowned European auto importer envisioned a car that could straddle the line between a higher-end Porsche 356 Speedster and a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, along with the sensibility and sophistication of an MG. The 507 Roadster extracted components from both the BMW 502 and 503 series — the centerpiece being the 3.2-liter overhead-valve V8 engine. Having only known four owners over the course of its life, this particular 1957 BMW 507 Roadster Series I has only 73,000 kilometers on its speedometer and is currently up for auction at RM Sotheby’s.

Peugeot Design Lab Unveils State of the Art Urban Charging Station

Covering a large number of competences from brand strategy to the development of innovative products, the Peugeot Design Lab recently unveiled drafted plans for a one-of-a-kind electric vehicle solar energy charging station. Bringing its broad knowledge of automobile know-how to the table, the Peugeot Design Lab project for Driveco accommodates 150 square meter solar panels that ensure ample electricity is provided even in times of low sunshine. Each charging station is set to boast lithium ion batteries and will be able to charge up to seven vehicles at a time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Head directly to the Peugeot Design Lab to look at more exciting projects.

Anvil Motociclette Introduces the Custom Moto Guzzi V9

This Italian motorbike is definitely a work of art recognized all around the country having just become a finalist of the Italian program “Lord of the Bikes.” Inspired by the theme of a “gentleman’s ride,” the Moto Guzzi V9 is stylish, elegant and worthy of any urban gentleman who chooses to roam the city on two powerful wheels. This custom was based on the history of Moto Guzzi, the star of Italian motorcycles and the oldest motorcycle manufacturer in Europe. It includes a nifty sidecar and a sophisticated facelifts. 

Bunker Custom Motorcycles Revamps the Yamaha XSR700

Istanbul-based Bunker Custom Motorcycles has unveiled a winner in its customization of the Yamaha XSR700. Created as part of Yamaha’s Yard Built program, the bike was designed to emulate the tracker style, and features a raised seat position, higher ground clearance, and a more terrain-friendly 19-inch front wheel. Performance upgrades included Renthal bars, MT-09 Tracer units, Super Ténére spoked wheels, Goldentyre GT201 tires, a Halo headlamp, handcrafted exhausts, and a variety of Yamaha genuine accessories. However, the stunning body job is the most notable change, with Bunker crafting the 2mm aluminum pieces found on the fuel tank, mudguard and radiator covers entirely by hand. 

Mercedes-AMG Unveils the 2017 C63 Cabriolet

Mercedes-AMG has already unveiled a couple of cabriolets this year (the C43 and C300), but now the German giant is back with yet another C-Class: the 2017 C63 Cabriolet. Intended as a competitor to the likes of BMW’s M4, the new C63 boasts a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine capable of 469 horsepower, 479 pound-feet of torque and acceleration of 0 to 62 mph in 4.1 seconds before topping out at an electronically-limited 155 mph. The new cabriolet will also be available in a special S edition that’s not only more powerful and faster (with 503 horsepower, 516 pound-feet of torque and a top speed of 174 mph), but also more luxurious thanks to heat-reflecting diamond-quilted Nappa leather sport seats and a white paint scheme with glossy black accents. As for the retractable top, it comes in black, blue or red and can be opened and closed at speeds up to 31 mph.

Finished with 18-inch wheels (19-inch alloys in the case of the S), the 2017 C63 Cabriolet is currently slated to hit dealers this fall.

Audi Takes the Top off of the R8

If you could never afford or ultimately missed out on the now defunct Lamborghini Gallardo, Audi’s R8 has long been your next best option. Designed and manufactured exclusively at Audi’s high-performance Quattro GmbH subsidiary, the Gallardo-based R8 (it uses the Lambo’s platform) has been the hallmark of Audi’s patented Quattro all-wheel drive system since its 2006 debut — and nothing has changed in the decade since. Now the German automaker is back with its latest version of the vehicle, following up last year’s rendition with its latest R8 Spyder V10.

Coupling a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 with a seven-speed S-Tronic dual-clutch transmission, the car still boasts 540 horsepower and acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.6 seconds (before hitting a top speed of 197 mph), but ditches the original hardtop in favor of a new fabric roof. Retractable at speeds of up to 31 mph, the roof can open or close in just 20 seconds — meaning this is the perfect R8 for the warmer months ahead.

The 2017 Audi R8 Spyder V10 will hit dealers later this year. In the meantime, head on over to Autoblog to check out Audi’s full press release for the vehicle.

BMW Looks to the Future With Its Vision Next 100 Concept

This year marks the 100-year anniversary of The Ultimate Driving Machine and, to celebrate, BMW has unveiled its most futuristic concept to date. Dubbed the Vision Next 100, the car follows the likes of January’s i8 concepts and envisions what the BMW of 2116 may look like. The result? A low-sitting, fully electric sedan that boasts the likes of four butterfly doors (each of which opens via proximity sensors), “flexible skin”-covered wheels, and the ability to drive itself. The car even boasts a driver-centric Boost mode whereby the driver takes control of the wheel as “Alive Geometry” presents three-dimensional warning messages or even shows the optimum line and speed the driver should take on the road. If autonomous Ease mode is more your style, however, you can kick back as the steering wheel becomes flush with the dash, the seats recline to a more comfy limo-like ride and the car itself points out surrounding scenery and passing landmarks. The Vision Next 100 also employs a so-called Companion personal assistant that monitors both the driver and passengers, learns their habits and adapts to their needs over time — it can even interact with nearby pedestrians.

For more on the German automotive giant’s vision of century ahead, venture on over to BMW’s dedicated Next 100 website.

Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4 Avio

Brand new exterior colors and a crafted interior aren’t all that’s new for Lamborghini‘s special edition Huracán LP 610-4 Avio. Boasting a top speed of 325 km/h (approximately 202 mph), the model’s composite body comes detailed with wedges and scoops and is made from alumnium and carbon fiber. Inside, all-black seat bolsters are embroidered with contrast white stitching while microsuede seat inserts feature laser-etched hexagons. And of course, it comes fully equipped with all-wheel drive, an electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch, navigation system, cruise control, aluminum double-wishbone suspension, electronically-controlled exterior mirrors and a hydraulic front-end lift system for those pesky speed bumps. The Avio edition also comes exclusively fitted with polished black 20-inch wheels.

Limited to 250 models, this Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4 Avio can be purchased in five matte body paints. Read more about this Huracán over on their website. Along with the Centenario, what are some of your favorite models being unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show?

source:hype beast.com

McLaren Unveils its Latest Race-Ready 650S GT3

McLaren’s high-powered 650S coupe got a track-ready GT3 update back in 2014 and now the racer is back with a brand new look for 2016. Set for a debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show, the vehicle is highlighted by a modified body design — weighing 2,733 lbs — while carrying over the biturbo 3.8-liter V8 engine and six-speed sequential gearbox of the previous design (now rated at about 500 horsepower given the restrictions of the FIA GT3 regulations).

Expect the car to compete in the likes of the Blancpain Endurance Series and the Blancpain Sprint Series after making its public debut in Geneva come March 1.

Source:WORLDCARFANS

Ferrari Says Farewell to the FF and Hello to the GTC4 Lusso

Ferrari’s short lived FF — an abbreviation for the “Ferrari Four” because of it’s four-wheel-drive feature — has officially come to an end. While some argue that it was one of the most aesthetically “interesting” Ferrari super cars, apparently the Italian automakers aren’t completely done with the “shooting brake” design, as they now unveil the GTC4 Lusso. The new vehicle showcases subtle body re-design cues found at the front bumper and the air intakes. A roof-mounted spoiler cleans up the rear end while a rear under-mounted diffuser set against the quad exhaust tips solidifies an aggressive stance. Performance-wise, the GTC4 Lusso holds a 6.2-liter V12 engine that outputs both 680 horsepower and 515 pound-feet of torque — 0-60 is now at a ridiculous 3.4 seconds. In addition to the engine, a unique rear-wheel steering (the rear wheels turn against the direction of the front wheels for sharper cornering) works alongside the Slip Side Control system attached to the electronic differential for unrivaled handling.

The first guests to witness the GTC4 Lusso in person will be the attendants of the 86th Annual Geneva Motor Show in March.

Bentley Introduces the Mulsanne Speed Beluga Edition

Luxury automaker Bentley unveils its latest special edition Mulsanne Speed. Following up on the “Blue Train” version, the company’s coachbuilding division presents a murdered out “Beluga” edition that boasts black painted accents, matching 21-inch alloys and most important of all, a tinted “Flying B” ornament along the hood. From a performance perspective the 6.75-litre V8 engine accelerates the car from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, en route to hitting a maximum speed of about 190 mph. Though images of the interior haven’t been releases as of yet, Bentley’s premium leather upholstery and a number of trimming options can be expected.

The 1964 Porsche 356 Cabriolet Emory Outlaw Oozes Old World Class

Few vintage cars inspire as much fanaticism as the Porsche 356, but the Emory Outlaw custom build of the 356 Cabriolet ups that one more notch. Father-and-son duo Gary and Rod Emory have experienced a newfound wave of appreciation for their builds in recent years, with the Outlaw being the pinnacle of their work. Featuring a 2.4-liter flat-four engine capable of 185 hp and 172 pound-feet of torque, the Outlaw is outfitted with a four-speed transmission while the interior is bedecked with a Nardi steering wheel and luxurious red leather upholstery. A pretty car costs a pretty penny — the silver Outlaw commands $250,000 USD, while a sleek black version costs $100,000 USD more.

Source:WORLD CAR FANS

This 1955 Mercedes-Benz Gullwing Racer Is Expected to Fetch $6 Million USD

An extremely rare 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Racer W198 will soon be auctioned at RM Sotheby’s this year, with an expected price tag of around $6,000,000 USD. The car, which paved the way for Gullwing automotive design to modern day, is one of only four ever prepped for racing and testing out of the factory by Mercedes-Benz. The car in question has actually been raced by Sir Stirling Moss, hall-of-fame Formula 1 racer, and placed second at the Tour de France championship. Once decommissioned, the Gullwing Racer was then owned by a single owner for 40 years and thus restored by the owner’s son in 2008 to its present day condition. Currently, the highest valued Gullwing sold, according to Sports Car market, was $4.62 Million in 2012 at the Gooding & Company’s Scottsdale auction, so a $6 million price tag for this racer version is no surprise.

Source: AUTOBLOG/ hypebeast.com

Mazda MX-5 Speedster and MX-5 Spyder Concepts

For car enthusiasts, the answer to any question asked was always “Mazda Miata.” The two-seat roadster’s agility, style and overall drivability was only complemented by the vehicles reliability and generally low price tag. At SEMA 2015, the Hiroshima-based company introduced two new concepts in the form of the MX-5 Spyder and Speedster.

While the Spyder may look like an ordinary drop-top, its the details that really set it apart from the standard MX-5. A vintage silver paint job gives the body some subtle style, while the brown fabric top adds just the right amount of contrast. Throw in beefy 17-inch wheels, a rear occupancy cover made of carbon fiber and an aggressive aerodynamics kit and the MX-5 is no longer just an ordinary roadster.

The Speedster thus is on a whole other level. With no roof or windshield — just a tiny driver-side deflector — the style of the Miata is longer recognizable but stunning nevertheless. An adjustable coilover suspension system throws the car lower to the ground for an improved center of gravity, 16-inch wheels give it easier handling, carbon fiber weight saving and a sexy center mounted exhaust make this the ultimate car for track days and car meet show-offs.

While these are conceptual models with no production date set, keep an eye on Mazda to, as it seems from these two variants, change the roadster game forever.

Source: AUTOBLOG/ hypebeast.com

Deus Ex Machina “Red Pill” Motorbike

Deus Ex Machina from Down Under has unveiled the “Red Pill,” a custom two-wheeler with a surfboard rack molded on to its side. Designed by Jeremy Tagand, the bespoke Kawasaki W650 is constructed for the enthusiast of both the road and the coast. The slick vintage rework replaces the air box with re-jetted carbs which quaff air to twin K&N filters, while the battery has also been shifted to under the swing arms for a more compact appearance. Custom ace bars, digital clock custom stainless font and rear fenders, and Rizoma mirrors and indicators round out Tagand’s appealing design. Head to Deus Ex Machina for more information on availability.

source/text: hypebeast.com

Ghostly Range Rover Evoque Convertibles Are Haunting London

With the drop-top’s reveal set for this November, Land Rover is drumming up excitement for its upcoming Range Rover Evoque Convertible with colorful, ghostly wireframe versions of the vehicle. Placed throughout London, the six life-sized replicas — crafted out of aluminum by Land Rover’s own design team — appear outside of luxury retailers around the city. This isn’t the first time the manufacturer has undertaken the endeavor either; it previously placed cruder wireframe versions of the Evoque’s hardtop around Paris.

Stay tuned for the Evoque Convertible’s official reveal in the weeks ahead.

source:hypebeast.com


The Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA Transforms Its Shape in the Name of Aerodynamics

The Frankfurt Motor Show is currently under way, showcasing some of the finest cars and concepts to hit our roads in the near future. One of such concepts is this: the Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA. While most will assume the IAA stands for the show’s full German title “Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung,” the cleverly convenient acronym actually stands for “Intelligent Aerodynamics Automobile.” Accordingly, once the IAA hits a set speed of about 50 mph (or manually triggered), its tail section will extend almost 15 inches away from its core chassis, allowing for a much higher degree of rear downforce and a drag coefficient of a mere 0.19. While this technology is not new (the SLS AMG, also manufactured by Mercedes-Benz, has an adaptive rear spoiler that would deploy at 75 mph), a transformation of this magnitude is definitely a feat of engineering. Along with the rear, aerodynamic flaps in the front and rear bumper also activate to force wind away from the “active rims,” thus reducing turbulence. Due to the conceptual stage of the IAA, no release date or pricing is available, but keep an eye out for this new technology in the near future.


Source: AUTOBLOG