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The Bugatti Centodieci faces the Bugatti EB 110

Remember our article on the two unique Bugatti EB110 cars we published a while ago? Where we talked about probably the two rarest EB110 models in modern automotive history, a blue EB110S LM and a silver EB110S SC GTS-1 … two bespoke race cars built by Bugatti and based on the EB110 SS, only one of each were ever made, making each one unique on her own because they were built with a different purpose in mind. The blue car was specifically built for Le Mans, hence the EB110 LM naming, and she did enter the 1994 edition of the 24h of Le Mans, with a rumored power output of more than 700 PS.

Earlier this year the silver EB110S SC GTS-1 returned to a race track in Dyon after being dormant for 25 years, but not to compete, but to be part of a photoshoot, after that the car would join its blue EB110S LM in the UK, to be taken care of by the specialists at H.R.Owen Bugatti for their annual maintenance, and it seems they haven’t been returned to their owner’s garage just yet … Bugatti Automobiles had the great idea to take their new limited edition model, the Centodiece, which is an homage to the EB110SS, to the Nardò track in Italy and come face to face with these two bespoke built race cars from the past … a meeting of two icons.

The Bugatti Centodiece will be entering production in 2022, but before that happens the prototypes will be taken for multiple test drives, both on the open road, and on the track, and that’s why Bugatti returned to the famous Nardò circuit in southern Italy, a proving ground often used by not only Bugatti but many renowned supercar and hypercar manufacturers, this test track in Apulia has seen many prototypes roar their engines for final dynamic checks before going into production.

The 6.2-kilometer track at Nardò combines several right-left-right corners to be taken at high speeds that allow a perfect refinement of the chassis, this track is very demanding on both driver and car, that’s why it’s a preferred venue, but Lars Fischer, Head of Chassis Testing and Application at Bugatti, takes the testing even further by not only keeping the new Centodiece on the track, but also taking it onto the rounds around Apulia, to get a better understanding of the chassis tuning in real-world traffic, and on roads that aren’t as smooth as a race track.

A team of 20 engineers and drivers took the Bugatti Centodiece to Italy to finalize the new model, experts in chassis tuning and development together with engine, transmission, and bodywork specialists all work together during these grueling tests under the Italian sun, this allows them to verify the car’s performance under high outside temperature while taking her onto the high-speed course at Nardò.

The Bugatti Centodieci will be made by hand right at the atelier in Molsheim, this model is an homage to the legendary EB 110 and it’s also a symbol of Bugatti’s coachbuilding expertise, back in 1998, the EB 110 was a milestone on the road to reviving the Bugatti brand in Molsheim, and now they face each other on the Italian race track, but in nearly 30 years a lot has changed, the EB110 came with 610 PS while today the Centodiece will add almost 1,000 PS to that figure, while the EB110 didn’t have a lot of electronics fitted, the Centodiece has systems that alter the chassis dynamics in real-time.

But for Loris Bicocchi, who was already a test driver in the early 90s, and was effectively involved in the development of the EB 110 from scratch, the biggest difference isn’t the power output or the electronics … it’s the tires, the grip level of modern tires like those on the Centodieci is extremely high, he says, and this allows for high lateral acceleration, now Bicocchi is helping the Bugatti team to develop the Centodiece, especially the chassis setup … so he came full circle, working on the EB110 and now on that cars homage 30 years later.

But only a very select few will be able to enjoy all this hard work, Bugatti will only build 10 units of the Centodiece, deliveries will start in 2022, and they are all sold already … at €8,000,000 each, that’s about US$ 9,500,000 …

July 8, 2021 / Comments Off

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Ultimae is the final Lamborghini Aventador

Automobili Lamborghini SpA unveiled their latest V12 flagship model, online at this time, but the actual car will make its official public debut at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed, called the Ultimae, this car marks the end of an era, with its full name being the Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae, it will be the final Lamborghini Aventador model, and also the last NA V12 in Lamborghini’s history.

After making V12 powered cars since 1963 with the Lamborghini 350 GT, and a car the automotive world marks as the first supercar in automotive history, the Lamborghini Miura from 1966, the era of the NA V12 engine will end in 2022 when the last of the 600 Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae rolls off the assembly line in Sant’Agata, Bologna. Lamborghini will be making 350 units of the LP780-4 Ultimae Coupe and 250 units of the Ultimae Roadster, for the first time they unveiled both models at the same time, each of these cars will be individually numbered, shown on a plaque stating xxx/350 and xxx/250 respectively.

It seems Lamborghini got inspired by the likes of the Porsche 911 GT3 with Touring Package, where you get the brutal power of the GT3 but without the large wings … a kind of ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’ look, understated but with extreme power hiding under those inconspicuous looks … and that’s exactly what this new Lamborghini Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae is, take the power from the Aventador SVJ, tune it a little to pump out 10 more hp, but use the Aventador S body without the ALA, Active Lamborghini Aerodynamics, and remove the rear wing.

The Lamborghini Aventador LP780-4Ultimae does come with the side sills and complete rear section of the Aventador SVJ, but the front bumper comes straight from the Aventador S, now with black painted sections and some ‘livery’ in color. And that’s also the case with the engine cover, which is the original unit we’ve seen from the original 2011 Aventador LP700-4, because the Ultimae doesn’t come with any ALA there was no need to have a newly designed front bumper, nor a bespoke engine cover … even the Roadster comes with the regular unit seen on the Aventador LP700-4 Roadster back in 2013.

For the Lamborghini Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae they did change the side sills a little, the intake that’s black on the SVJ version now comes color-coded to the rest of the body, but it does seem you have to go for either a black, a dark grey, or a blue lower section for the front bumper, side sills, and part of the rear diffuser … and the dark Blu Nethuns lower sections appear to be only available if you select the new Blu Tawaret … if you want your Ultimae to be all-out the same color you’ll probably have to convince the Ad Personam studio of your vision … and expect a hefty premium on the final invoice.

Lamborghini calls the rear section of their latest Ultimae a celebration of the SVJ’s track-oriented heritage, and they still call the rear wing part of the ‘active aero system’ as it can be set to three different positions from “closed” to “maximum performance”, and “maximum handling”, and there are even vortex generators created in the front and rear of the chassis’ underside … but it’s nothing like the ALA system found on the SVJ that works with flaps that could even open individually on the left and right of the car to improve handling in high-speed cornering.

“The Aventador LP 780-4 denotes the final, purest, timeless naturally-aspirated production V12 Lamborghini,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President, and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “It delivers the essential twelve-cylinder experience in terms of inimitable design, engineering solutions, and the most emotive driving experience, and is the definitive Aventador concluding an extraordinary era. It is the last of its kind: it delivers the maximum power and conclusive performance expected from Lamborghini’s current V12 engine, combined with our inimitable flagship’s design DNA. The Aventador was destined to become a classic from launch, and the Aventador LP 780-4 is the most beautiful expression of timeless design and technical solutions in a final edition: Ultimae.”

The Lamborghini Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae is the culmination of a continuing development over the last decade, it’s been 10 years since the Aventador LP700-4 took over the reign from the Murciélago, during those 10 years we’ve seen a total of 27 different models emerge from Sant’Agata using the Aventador carbon fiber monocoque chassis, from masterpieces like the Lamborghini Veneno, the Lamborghini Centenario, and finally the Sian, the first Lamborghini with a Supercapacitor to create a hybrid model, and let’s not forget the true one-off models like the 2012 Aventador J, and the two bespoke builds, the SC18 Alston and the SC20 … after more than 10,000 Lamborghini Aventador built over the last decade, the final curtain on this amazing supercar will fall next year.

Rumor has it the successor to the Lamborghini Aventador will be introduced in 2023, and it will be the first real production hybrid model from Sant’Agata, with the Sian being a very limited edition, the newcomer will officially be Lamborghini’s first car with electric power sold to the public, which will also mark the end of the aspirated V12 era for Lamborghini, this Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae will effectively be the ultimate Aventador, the most powerful yet, and also the last one using this kind of V12 engine, and while Stephan Winkelmann did confirm in a recent interview that the successor will still be a V12 engine, it will come with additional electric motors … will it be an evolution of the Aventador engine, or a new, smaller-displacement V12 unit isn’t disclosed yet.

The press release didn’t mention a price for this ultimate Lamborghini Aventador, but with the very limited production numbers, and the importance they are giving this end of an era model, chances are they will charge a premium over the outgoing Aventador SVJ, and make no mistake, this Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae might sell out quicker than you would expect, personally I think this model will be an instant collector’s item, for one because it’s the final Aventador … ever, but also because only 350 Coupe and 250 Roadster will be built.

If you put those numbers against a total of 600 Aventador LP750-4 Superveloce, 500 Aventador LP750-4 Superveloce Roadster, 900 Aventador LP770-4 SVJ, and 800 Aventador LP770-4 SVJ Roadster, this new Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae is a lot rarer, the only Aventador edition that’s even more exclusive are the 100 units each of the Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary edition coupe and Roadster, so I think despite the understated looks of this Ultimae, in ten or twenty years, this will be one of the most valuable Aventador ever.

July 7, 2021 / Comments Off

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Lamborghini Announces The Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae

The Lamborghini Aventador, in one way or another, has been around for a decade now. Throughout that time, it has had multiple special editions, one-offs, and has even had the ultra-high-performance Sian based on it.

Now, however, Lamborghini has brought out the Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae, which is in their own words “the perfect synthesis of the performance of Aventador SVJ and the sophisticated design of Aventador S, in a new definitive model produced to celebrate the iconic V12 super sports car.”

The Ultimae will be a limited series car, with 350 examples of the coupe, and 250 examples of the roadster built. And what a limited series it will be.

Power will come from the single most powerful V12 Lamborghini has fitted into an Aventador. Just about 780 HP will sing its opera through 12 Italian cylinders at the rate of 8,500 RPM, pushing the Ultimae to a 355 KPH (221 MPH) top speed.

0 to 100 KPH (0 to 62 MPH) disappears in 2.8 seconds without using launch mode, and 0 to 200 KPH (0 to 124 MPH) soars by in under 9 seconds. This is because, using the technology developed through the Sian project, the Aventador Ultimae will be made almost entirely of reinforced carbon fiber and weigh a scant 1,550 kg (3,417 lbs) dry.

The entire body is also shaped especially for downforce, with an entirely new front bumper/air intake area that guarantees front downforce no matter the speed. It takes cues from both the SVJ and the Sian, shaping the side intakes and skirts to also guarantee lateral downforce for ultimate cornering grip.

The ultimate reason for the Ultimae is, however, a bit of a sad tale. As the Aventador model lineup winds down, the Ultimae is the last variation of the raging bull that will carry the iconic 12 cylinders of Italian fury. Every new car from now on out will either be hybrid with smaller engines such as V8’s or even V6’s, or fully electric.

So, in a way, this is the last pure, classic Lamborghini… ever.

July 7, 2021 / Comments Off

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The Rimac Nevera conquers London

We’ve only just announced the remarkable joint venture between Rimac Automobili and Bugatti Automobiles a few days ago, and now we have a brand new milestone for the Rimac brand … for the first time in history the Rimac Nevera left her home country, Croatia, and came to the UK, conquering London in complete silence, the 1,914 hp all-electric hypercar has no problem entering the Ultra Low Emissions Zone in the UK’s capital.

The first trip outside of Croatia for this amazing hypercar of the future was toward the only official UK dealership for Rimac Automobili, renowned H.R.Owen, a household name among luxury motorcars, being the leading dealer group combining makes like Bugatti, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, BAC, Puritalia, and now also Rimac, with the H.R.Owen flagship dealership located in Mayfair since 1927 … they have a total of six showrooms in London alone, with five more in other counties.

It isn’t a coincidence the arrival of the limited edition Rimac Nevera, only 150 units will be built for the entire world, happens days before the Goodwood Festival of Speed opens its doors for the long-awaited 2021 edition, the Nevera will surely make an appearance at that famous show, perhaps even take a stint at the hill climb, possibly even setting some records keeping in mind it takes only 9.3 seconds to reach 300 km/h behind the wheel of this hypercar, a time most family saloons take to reach 100 km/h.

London is also the first stop for the Rimac Nevera, after that she’ll go to Goodwood for the Festival of Speed, but once that’s completed the Nevera will go on an epic global trip to make over 20 stops in the upcoming 8 months, while she travels throughout Europe before heading to Asia and later the United States to visit the worldwide Rimac dealer network and make an appearance at some of the most renowned events so people can see this amazing hypercar in real life.

Ken Choo, H.R. Owen CEO, said: “Since meeting Mate Rimac and the whole Rimac Automobili team two years ago, we have believed wholeheartedly in their vision. To finally now see the culmination of years of development, with the Nevera finally in our showroom and on the streets of London, is a very special moment. Led by the Group Chairman of Berjaya Corp Berhad, Vincent Tan, H.R. Owen has built a reputation for extraordinary attention-to-detail in customer service, just as Rimac has perfected every small detail on the Nevera. It’s the foundation for a great partnership between our brands.”

We already know the name Nevera is taken from a typical storm in Croatia, very powerful and charged by lightning … when the storm hits it will be with exceptional speed and potency, something the Rimac Nevera mimics perfectly … this hypercar can change from a comfortable Gran Tourer cruising with ease into a fierce performance machine on four wheels … in the blink of an eye. I sure wouldn’t mind seeing the Rimac Nevera in real life during one of the stops she’ll make.

July 7, 2021 / Comments Off

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The 2022 Lotus Emira Has Officially Been Unveiled

In May 2021, Lotus gave us a look into the future of the brand with the announcement of the all-new Lotus Emira. On July 6th, the company announced the full details on Lotus’s last internal combustion model.

The Lotus already has the configuration tool on its website to assist potential customers in building the perfect Emira. The online configurator allows potential buyers and dreamers alike to select exterior, interior, wheel, and brake colors. Last but not least, you are welcomed to select your choice of either a 3.5-liter supercharged V6 from Toyota with roughly 400hp or a 360hp turbocharged inline-4 that was made in conjunction with AMG. Those engines can be paired to either a 6-speed automatic transmission or a “6-speed manual with Torsen type limited-slip differential”.

How do you get your hands on one?

Per the Lotus website, you have the option to pay a £2,000 ($2,800) “priority fee”. Doing so will put you at the front of the line come the ‘Order Window’ period (beginning September 2021 and end in March 2022). But there’s one small catch – the priority fee is only for Right-hand drive models – otherwise, you wait like everybody else.

The Emira is a very special model not only because it’s the first Lotus model in almost 10 years but it is also the last petrol-powered Lotus to be released. And it can be yours for a measly £60,000 ($83,000) – a small price for such a striking piece of Lotus history.

July 7, 2021 / Comments Off

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Now Is Your Chance: 1,300-Mile 2005 Saleen S7 Hits BaT

Tired of looking at that Saleen poster hanging in your garage? Well, your prayers have just been answered. Up for sale on BringATrailer is a 2005 Saleen S7 Twin Turbo with only 1,300 miles. This isn’t your average Saleen, this example has been modified by Saleen with the Competition Package.

The Saleen S7 was produced from 2000 to 2007 and it was the sixth all-American production car to come with a mid-engine. Featuring an all-carbon body, the S7 weighs in at only 2,865lbs while putting down 750hp from the factory.

This S7’s 7-liter twin-turbocharged V8 has been tuned to 850hp and comes packing a ton of extras with the Competition Package. This includes revised a carbon-fiber front spoiler, a rear diffuser, and a body-width rear wing.

From the factory, the car came with a six-speed manual transaxle and a limited-slip differential. In addition to having center-locking forged wheels, the car also comes with A/C, a backup camera, and a paint protection film installed in 2020.

Right now the car is sitting at a bid of $440K with just under 5 days left on the auction. Now is the time to grab your dream Saleen and aside from being a collector item, it’s one purchase you won’t regret.

July 6, 2021 / Comments Off

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Bugatti Rimac is a new company

After a lot of rumors, it is finally official, Mate Rimac will become the CEO of a brand new company called Bugatti Rimac d.o.o. that will have its headquarter in Croatia and becomes a new entity by the final quarter of 2021, and to really put this amazing feat into perspective … it took Rimac only ten years to become a massive company, back in 2010 Rimac had 8 employees, and when they introduced the Concept 1 at the 2011 IAA in Frankfurt, they had no idea that by 2021 they would join forces with a hypercar brand like Bugatti and have over 1,000 employees.

In 2018 a big milestone was reached when Porsche invested in Rimac Automobili, only a year later, in 2019, both Hyundai and Kia became shareholders of the company, today Mate Rimac decided it was time to separate his company Rimac Automobili that was founded twelve years ago, the original company will be renamed into Rimac Group that will contain two separate companies, one being Bugatti Rimac that will continue to build Hypercar, the other called Rimac Technology that will focus on creating technology not only for the Rimac hypercars but also for other companies.

But Rimac Group will only own a controlling interest in Bugatti Rimac of 55%, while the shareholders of the Rimac Group are Porsche with 24%, Hyundai at 12%, other investors hold 27%, while Mate Rimac himself holds 37% of Rimac Group being the largest shareholder, and while there is a new company called Bugatti Rimac, both Bugatti Automobiles and Rimac Automobili will remain separate companies, but they will combine expertise to create the future models for both brands.

Fear not, the 110 years of Bugatti history will be kept alive, production of Bugatti cars will remain at Molsheim, even for future models, once finished, the massive Rimac Campus in Croatia will be building all Rimac cars, but will also be the home of R&D for both Bugatti and Rimac, remember this massive campus will hold 2,500 employees, and when completed in 2023 will also house the production for technology and components for both Bugatti and Rimac cars.

Putting together the right structure for Bugatti Rimac took 18 months of negotiations according to Lutz Meschke, Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board and Member of the Executive Board for Finance and IT at Porsche AG, with this joint venture the future of Bugatti Automobiles has been secured by uniting two strong brands, one being 110 years old, the second being very young but boasting a rarely seen growth path.

Bugatti became part of the Volkswagen Group in 1998, since then the world’s most impressive hypercars have left the gates at Molsheim, like the Bugatti Veyron and today the Bugatti Chiron, and while Porsche now owns 45% of Bugatti Automobiles and the Rimac Group the other 55%, production of these amazing, luxurious and extremely fast W16 quad-turbo hypercars will remain in France, even for the next generation of Bugatti cars.

July 5, 2021 / Comments Off

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The NOVITEC N-LARGO F8T

A new Ferrari F8 Tributo would be a dream car for many already, but as always, there is a market for upgrading even the most precious supercars, companies like Mansory take that to the extreme with complete overhauls of expensive high-end luxury cars and sports cars, but there is a market in between for customers that like to personalize their prized possession without going all-out, and for those, a company like NOVITEC is perfectly suited, with their aerodynamic package for some of the world’s most popular supercars from Lamborghini or Ferrari.

We’ve covered the Ferrari F8 Tributo by NOVITEC a while ago, the Novitec N-Tronic upgrades the twin-turbo V8 together with a high-performance exhaust system from the factory original 720 hp to 802 hp, while a complete body kit available in clear carbon fiber transforms Maranello’s F8 into an aggressive looking Formula One-inspired road car, as for the rear wing, NOVITEC offers multiple options, either a large version that offers massive downforce or a more subtle styled version that draws less attention.

But things change considerably when you go for the famous N-LARGO version from NOVITEC, usually only available in a limited edition, and a lot wider than the factory original model, hence the N-LARGO name, and now we can finally show you what NOVITEC did to the Ferrari F8 Tributo to create their N-LARGO edition on this V8 powered red beauty, only 15 units of the NOVITEC N-LARGO F8T will be available, and for the incredible styling on this two-seater from Italy we have to thank the famous German designer Vittorio Strosek.

To the casual onlooker, this latest N-LARGO might look like any other red Ferrari, but she is far from a factory standard V8 from Maranello, for instance, the rear has been enlarged by 13 cm to a total of 211 cm width, thanks to wider rear fenders that create a stunning hourglass shape with the added bonus of larger air intakes to feed both the V8 engine and the rear disk brakes of fresh air, an additional plus the fact you can now fit 12-inch wide wheels at the rear.

Same for the front fenders, the NOVITEC N-LARGO replacement units widen the standard Ferrari F8 Tributo by 7 cm and come with some stunning, clear carbon fiber vents above the wheels, in this case, massive 9.5×21-inch NOVITEC NF10 NL hi-tech forged wheels made in cooperation with Vossen in the United States, mind you the rear axle gets a staggered 12×22-inch wheel with five, extremely concave delicate twin spokes, tires are 255/30 ZR 21 and 25 ZR 22 respectively.

Because of the wider fenders both front and rear, NOVITEC had to create a bespoke set of side sills to match the increment, and as always the entire aerodynamic package has been extensively tested in the wind-tunnel for optimum performance in channeling air, but also to make sure they look good, which brings us the front and rear design of this new N-LARGO. The front spoiler receives a pair of side fins for that aggressive look, while the rear comes with its own styling … both are completely replacing the factory original parts to make sure they match the wider fenders perfectly.

The rear comes with a so-called ‘Ducktail’ spoiler, still rather large, but more integrated into the design than a high rear wing on tall struts, add the NOVITEC rear diffuser for optimum downforce on this new N-LARGO, and just to really finish the aggressive styling on the exterior, NOVITEC offers a new engine cover, available in clear carbon fiber, and with an integrated air intake that boasts a scoop mounted just above the roofline, and it effectively optimizes air circulation in the engine bay.

And while you can opt for all these NOVITEC N-LARGO parts to be painted to match the car, I would go for this clear carbon fiber finish, and even get the optional cowl for the front hood in the same lightweight material, you can also get carbon fiber covers for the factory mirrors, however, NOVITEC also lists N-LARGO bespoke side mirrors and quarter lights … all made from lightweight carbon fiber naturally.

The NOVITEC N-LARGO rides about 35 mm lower to the street than the original Ferrari F8 Tributo, which could cause problems getting into your garage, or drive onto a speed bump, but fear not, NOVITEC has you covered here too, raising the car by about 40 mm at the touch of a button … just press the button again to go back to a more ground-hugging stance, or speed up to 80 km/h after which the car lowers itself automatically.

With looks like this new N-LARGO, you just need the power to match, so NOVITEC can increase the original power output by 98 hp to an impressive 818 hp at 7,960 rpm, with 903Nm of torque at 3,100 rpm, not only by fitting a NOVITEC N-TRONIC control module to the engine but also by installing a bespoke exhaust system with carbon fiber and stainless steel exhaust tips, while the rest of the exhaust system can be made from extremely light INCONEL.

Even with the additional width of the car and the massively wide wheels and tires that also create additional drag, this NOVITEC N-LARGO can still accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 2.6 seconds, getting to 200 km/h takes 7.4 seconds … the impressive top speed is above 340 km/h, with only 15 units to be made you might want to get in touch with NOVITEC quickly if this N-LARGO is something that might interest you.

July 5, 2021 / Comments Off

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Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport is a success in the US

Usually, Europe is the most important market for Bugatti, but for the first time in history, during the first six months of 2021, the leading region has been taken over by the United States of America, with an immense interest in the impressive Bugatti Chiron, and more specifically the very special Pur Sport, a model that focusses on agility and acceleration instead of all-out top speed, Cedric Davy, COO of Bugatti of the Americas confirms that 70% of order for the Pur Sport are first time Bugatti customers.

Bugatti is well on its way to a record-setting 2021, aside from the many orders for the Chiron Pur Sport, the newly introduced Chiron Super Sport has been generating a lot of interest from US buyers too, and it’s clear to see why the amazing Chiron Super Sport comes with a highly modified body, with a ‘longtail’ design to offer the best possible stability at speeds over 400 km/h, this fourth iteration of the Bugatti Super Sport moniker has been created specifically for top speed while still being luxurious and comfortable, the Pur Sport counterpart was created for cornering and lateral agility.

If you remember the Bugatti EB110 Super Sport, you might remember the round holes behind the side windows … as an homage to that design element, this new Chiron Super Sport comes with nine air vents on top of the front fenders to release air pressure from the front wheel wells, as this also increases downforce on the front axle, this styling detail is also functional, the new Chiron Super Sport is an uncompromising reincarnation of the Bugatti design mantra, ‘form follows performance’.

But back to the Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport, there will be only 60 units built for the entire world, the Chiron Pur Sport didn’t fail to impress some of the most important automotive publications in the United States during test drives, subsequently, sales have risen considerably, Bugatti mentions a 700% increase compared to the first six months of 2020, and with events starting to be held throughout the world, Bugatti intends to invite more clients to their VIP area to have them get a taste of what a Bugatti Chiron is all about.

Even 24 Hour of Le Mans class winner and longtime Bugatti test driver Butch Leitzinger was impressed with the Chiron Pur Sport during extended testing in Southern California, he stated: “The seamless marriage of agility and brute force give the Pur Sport abilities that are unmatched, not only by any other car, but also by any other Bugatti.”, so despite the pricetag in the $4,000,000 region, there are more customers than ever willing to park the Chiron in their garage.

July 4, 2021 / Comments Off

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Maserati MC20 comes to Goodwood

We have seen the new Maserati Halo Car being driven hard during testing on the track, after that, this Italian supercar wearing the famous trident was taken into the snow for cold-weather testing, and while no customer has received their Maserati MC20 yet, the car is finally finished and will make her official UK debut at the famous Goodwood Festival of Speed where none other than GT1 world champion in the MC12 and Maserati’s official test driver, Andrea Bertolini, will take a production version of the MC20 onto the iconic 1.16-mile hill climb course at Goodwood, over the four days of the Festival of Speed, visitors will be able to enjoy this new car twice a day in action on the hill climb.

The Maserati MC20 is the first model of their new era, combining performance with luxury once again, the MC20 comes with their in-house developed Nettuno V6 engine, twin turbochargers, and mid-mounted, this 630 hp beauty with Formula One sourced technology will propel this low supercar to 62 mph from a standstill in only 2.88 seconds, while a top speed of more than 202 mph is listed in the specifications, Maserati is so proud of this new V6 engine they are actually showcasing it at Goodwood next to the MC20 itself.

The 2021 edition of the Festival of Speed is a celebration of motorsport and car culture during which the Maserati MC20 will make its UK dynamic debut in the Supercar Run, the famous hill climb course, but this Italian beauty will also be shown statically on the Supercar Paddock, next to other supercars and hypercars from the competition, but I’m sure this new Maserati MC20 supercar that is produced in Modena, at the historic Viale Ciro Menotti plant, will draw attention to herself with ease.

July 2, 2021 / Comments Off

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Automobili Pininfarina debuts their Battista hyper GT

The Center stage at the Electric Avenue exhibition space during the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed will be taken by the brand new Battista GT, the all-electric hypercar created by Automobili Pininfarina in their attempt to lead the current automotive movement into the sustainable cars, be it high-speed supercars, hypercar, or luxury cars, as Bentley is also heavily investing in the latter category, Pininfarina took on the hypercar segment first with their impressive Battista GT which will be shown to the public at this year’s Goodwood FOS for the first time.

Automobili Pininfarina brings over 90 years of Italian icons in their legacy, some of the most beautiful, and fast Italian cars found their origin in this world-renowned design house, now they are getting ready to unveil the pinnacle of EV in the form of a luxurious car made from sustainable materials that boasts an amazing design while housing a pure-electric powertrain so there is zero emission from this Italian beauty.

Per Svantesson, Chief Executive Officer, Automobili Pininfarina, said: “We are excited to bring Battista to the iconic Goodwood Festival of Speed for the first time. This hyper GT and our future portfolio of luxury electric cars will offer the beautiful design and personalization opportunities one expects from Automobili Pininfarina, with thrilling performance enabled by zero-emissions powertrain technology and an array of sustainably sourced design features and finishes. Goodwood’s Electric Avenue is a perfect showcase for this vision of future luxury.”

The Battista GT prototype has been out on the harshest track throughout Europe during final testing, the unveiling of this stylish hypercar at Goodwood is a prelude to actual clients receiving their car later this year, Jardine Motors Group will be the London and southern UK retailer for the exclusive new model, customers will be able to get their Automobili Pininfarina Battista GT built to their exact specifications, both for exterior and interior finish.

The official debut of the Battista GT at the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed comes after being selected for the Electric Dream award from the expert judges at Electrifying.com earlier this year and the Electric Hypercar of the Year prize at last year’s GQ Car of the Year awards, the Battista GT will be the most powerful car ever built in Italy, power output is listed at 1,900 hp with a torque figure of 2,300 Nm, this new road-legal hypercar is quicker than a Formula One car, 0 to 100 km/h takes less than 2 seconds, figures that are remarkably similar to the Rimac Nevera, which packs 1,914 hp and a massive 2,360 Nm of torque.

Similar to the €2,000,000 limited production Rimac Nevera, only 150 units of the Battista GT will be built, but the latter will come from the Automobili Pininfarina SpA atelier in Cambiano, Italy, thanks to a 120 kWh battery pack, this intimidating electric hypercar comes with a 500 km (310 miles) range between charges, and while the Rimac Nevera lists a top speed of 412 km/h (258 mph), Automobili Pininfarina just lists ‘over 350 km/h)

July 1, 2021 / Comments Off

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Audi Quattro Inspired E-Legend EL1 Boasts Over 800HP

A new EV startup out of Germany has just answered the prayers of all 1980s rally fans – sort of… E-Legend has just unveiled the all-new, all-electric, EL1. The boxy-looking EV gained its styling cues from the 80s Audi Sport Quattro and we think they nailed it.

But the EL1 isn’t just about cool looks, the EL1 comes to the party packing a 90kWh battery in its 800V system – the same setup found in the Porsche Taycan. Weighing in at only 1680Kg, the EL1’s 805bhp electric powerplant sends it to 60mph in only 2.8 seconds and giving it a top speed of 158mph.

With a claimed range of 248 miles (400km) on a full charge, the EL1 comes with a Sport Plus mode, three-way adjustable suspension, and a spoiler to keep the little EV monster planted on the track.

According to DriveTribe, the EL1’s interior is unfinished at the moment but is said to come with all of the creature comforts we expect in most production vehicles such as air conditioning, rearview camera, and a multimedia package.

So what will an 800 horsepower electric remake of an 80s legend cost you? Well, about a million dollars or 890K euros. Should you decide to fork out the dough, just know that only 30 examples are being produced. If you don’t get your hands on an EL1, an EL2 (based on the Lancia Stratos HF) and EL3 (base unknown) will be coming soon.

June 30, 2021 / Comments Off

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The Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT

At nearly the same horsepower output as a Lamborghini Urus, the new top-of-the-line Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT comes with 640 PS (471 kW) from her 4-Liter Biturbo V8 engine, which is an increase of 90 PS (67 kW) when compared to the Cayenne Turbo Coupé. Torque has been raised to 850 Nm for an acceleration figure from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds … this new Cayenne Turbo GT doesn’t run out of breath until she reaches 300 km/h.

The Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT will only be available in the Coupé version and comes with all the chassis upgrades as standard fitment, the tires on this 300 km/h SUV have been developed specifically for this high-performance model, a short while ago this new model managed to set the world record in the “SUV, off-road vehicle, van, pick-up” category with an amazing time of 7:38.925 minutes to complete an entire 20.832 km lap on the famous Green Hell, Nurburgring in Germany as a testament to the extreme racetrack capabilities of this new Cayenne evolution.

The Cayenne Turbo GT comes with a 17 mm lowered ride height while the rigidity of the suspension has been upped by 15% with modified damper settings for the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and adapted settings for the Power Steering Plus and rear-axle steering, massive 22-inch wheels (1 inch wider compared to the Turbo Coupé) in GT Design and are finished Neodyme, have been fitted over the now-standard Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) system, tires are sourced from Pirelli in the form of bespoke P Zero Corsa rubber, just for the Turbo GT edition.

The 4-Liter Biturbo V8 engine mounted in the Cayenne Turbo GT is the most powerful 8-cylinder unit Porsche has available, and it has been thoroughly modified compared to the engine in the Cayenne Turbo Coupé, with a different crankshaft drive, turbocharger, direct fuel injection, induction system, and intercooler. This even required a re-calibration of the eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox, now shifting gears even faster than before, this also required reprogramming of the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) system.

With all this extra power and torque, Porsche even had to add water cooling to the transfer case, but it’s the sound this Cayenne Turbo GT emits from the dual, centrally mounted exhausts that will give you goosebumps, the position of these large exhaust tips is only available on the Turbo GT monicker, from the middle down to the tips, this new exhaust is made from lightweight titanium, just to remove even more weight Porsche ditched the center silencer … as a result the sound is even deeper, we don’t mind.

The two magic materials that set apart the Cayenne Turbo GT from the rest are carbon fiber and Alcantara, one used abundantly on the exterior, the other on the amazing interior. At the front, the Turbo GT can be recognized by the special bumper with additional spoiler lip and large air intakes that lead onto black wheel arch extensions, while the rear bumper comes with a bespoke to this model, carbon fiber diffuser around the aforementioned dual exhaust.

At the rear, we also see the trailing edge of the carbon fiber roof is fitted with a roof spoiler with additional side fins for stabilization, while underneath the rear window Porsche fitted an adjustable rear wing that increases the downforce to 40 kgs at top speed thanks to it being 25 mm larger than the rear wing found on the Cayenne Turbo, the color seen on these presentation images is called “Arctic Grey” and is available as an option on this high-end model.

And all the fun continues on the interior of this Cayenne Turbo GT, for the driver and passenger we find stunning sport seats in the front, eight-way adjustable, with the perforated center section to the seat and back in Alcantara, contrast is achieved in either Neodyme (gold) or Arctic Grey, complete with Turbo GT embroidered on the headrests, front, and rear. Speaking about the rear, this Turbo GT comes with two individual seats for the rear passengers, also note the embossed Porsche crest on the armrest between the seats.

The multifunction steering wheel fitted to the Cayenne Turbo GT comes with a sports car ’12 o’clock’ marking, finished in yellow, while Porsche introduces the next-generation Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system on this model, not only integrating Apple CarPlay, but also Apple Music, Apple Podcast and Android Auto to allow most popular smartphones to be seamlessly integrated into the infotainment system.

We will have to wait until September to see the first units of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT at our local dealer, but we can already put in an order for this amazing new SUV, priced at €196,078 in Germany including VAT (19% for Germany), availability and pricing for the US market haven’t been published yet.

June 30, 2021 / Comments Off

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Q by Aston Martin Vantage Roadster

Back in 1921, the Aston Martin production facility was located at Abingdon Road in Kensington, London, and exactly 100 years ago a prototype of what would become the first Aston Martin production series left the gates, of the five prototypes built at the time, A3 was the third one, and currently the oldest Aston Martin still in existence in the world, in 1921 none other than Lionel Martin, co-founder of the company, used this specific car regularly.

Equipped with a four-cylinder engine, 1.5-liter of displacement, and ‘only’ 11 hp, the A3 still set records in 1921, like a first place at the Essex Motor Club Kop Hill Climb in 1922, and I’m sure you know about the famous Brooklands circuit in the UK, in 1923 the Aston Martin A3 managed a speed of 84.5 mph (136 km/h) on the track thanks to its streamlined racing body in her heydays.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the A3, Aston Martin HWM requested the Aston Martin bespoke builds division, known as ‘Q by Aston Martin’, to create a tribute car to the one that started it all in 1921, and the request was to do so using the stunning Aston Martin Vantage Roadster. Based in Walton on Thames, HWM is the longest-serving Aston Martin dealership in the world, established in 1938 and moved into their current building back in 1948.

To create this unique Q by Aston Martin Vantage Roadster the intention was to combine details from the century-old legacy of A3 with a modern-day supercar using the expertise of Q by Aston Martin, this starts with a unique grille with shiny aluminum surround with a black mesh that includes the original 100-year-old badge as used on the A3 back then. Back in those days, the engine cover was usually held down with leather straps, this Q by Aston Martin Vantage Roadster comes with customized fenders complete with a saddle color leather strap, painstakingly finished Ecurie Bertelli, the leading specialist in pre-war Aston Martin models.

The Q by Aston Martin Vantage Roadster rolls on stunning but also bespoke glossy black 20-inch Lightweight Forged wheels that cover bronze brake calipers to remind us of the A3 detailing that was also done in bronze as we’ve seen on cars from that era, it isn’t unusual to refer to these cars as ‘cars from the bronze era’, or ‘brass cars’. In 1921 Aston Martin used a different script for their name, and that identical font is used on the interior of this 2021 Q by Aston Martin Vantage Roadster that complements the Obsidian Black leather, and the Chestnut Tan accents in similar leather complete with Chestnut Tan Contrast stitching.

Simon Lane, Director of Q and Special Project Sales at Aston Martin, said: “It is only right that this great marque takes the opportunity to celebrate the centenary of its oldest surviving model and I am thrilled that my team, working with the AMHT and Aston Martin HWM, have been able to create this tasteful yet suitably exhilarating tribute to our historic forebear.”

You’ll notice an embossed Aston Martin logo on the central console, but period-correct to 1921, while the rotaries found inside this 2021 Q by Aston Martin Vantage Roadster were cast from brass to recreate the ambiance from the 1921 car in this day and age, and as yet another tribute to the A3 car, there will only be three units of the Q by Aston Martin Vantage Roadster available to customers, and only through the Aston Martin HWM dealership … the press release doesn’t mention a price, but you know what they say: “if you have to ask the price …”

June 27, 2021 / Comments Off

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The 41’ Cigarette Nighthawk AMG Edition

If you ask Mercedes, their AMG GT Black Series is still the undisputed ‘King of the Ring’, with a time of 6 minutes 43 seconds to complete the 12.8-mile track of the Nordschleife, better known as ‘the Green Hell’, or the Nurburgring in Germany, despite what Porsche claims with their 911 GT2 RS fitted with Manthey Racing components that completed the same track in 6:38 seconds, a full 5 seconds faster.

Porsche used a ‘tuned’ car for this record while the Mercedes is identical to the one you can buy straight from the factory, and I know, it’s all about semantics here, and yes, you can order the Manthey Racing components through Porsche’s Tequipment accessory lineup on the Porsche 911 GT2 RS … but it still doesn’t feel the same now does it, the AMG GT Black Series is the fastest front-engined car in the world, which is an amazing feat nonetheless.

But let’s take a look at this 41-foot Cigarette Nighthawk AMG Black Series, designed in close collaboration between the Cigarette Racing Team, the Mercedes-AMG design team, and Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Mercedes-Benz AG, to create the same feeling of power and luxury of the road car on the water.

The AMG GT Black series road car is fitted with a handbuilt V8 engine with a power output of 720 hp, which is an impressive number … but this new Cigarette puts her to shame, courtesy of no less than five racing-grade outboard engines, the famous 4.6-liter V8 Mercury Racing 450R units, which as the name suggest, come with an industry-leading 450 peak propshaft horsepower … each!

That’s a total of 2,250 hp, capable of propelling this large center console boat that can hold up to ten passengers in full luxury up to speeds of 90 Mph, this truly is a remarkable special edition boat, the 13th one that has been jointly developed in a longstanding partnership between AMG and Cigarette, the 41′ Nighthawk AMG Black Series is the latest in an impressive line of highly exclusive special edition performance vessels.

Just like the AMG GT Black Series, this Nighthawk AMG Black Series is finished in the bright Magmabeam orange and black exterior, a little detail, those AMG logos on the side of this Cigarette are painted, these aren’t decals. On the inside, a combination of grey and black is used, with orange details to unite both inside and outside.

While the AMG GT Black Series will arrive in US dealerships during the Summer of 2021 at a price of $325,000, the Nighthawk AMG Black Series might be just a little bit more expensive …

June 26, 2021 / Comments Off

366

Ferrari 296 GTS or Spider coming next?

We have only just seen the official introduction of Ferrari’s latest supercar, the 296 GTB, for 2,992 cc of displacement on a turbocharged V6 engine in the Gran Turismo Berlinetta body, the fact it’s a hybrid isn’t shown in the model designation, and while the first customers won’t be receiving their new 818 hp Prancing Horse before 2022, I’m sure Ferrari is already working on a convertible version.

So will Ferrari come up with a 296 GTS, or simply call it the 296 Spider? Whichever it will be, we bring you the first virtual renders on how the upcoming Ferrari 296 GTS might look:

Finished in Blu Corsa over Rosso leather, titanium finished wheels on Rosso calipers, and with the Assetto Fiorano option.

Finished in Blu Corsa over Rosso leather, titanium finished wheels on Rosso calipers, but without the Assetto Fiorano option this time.

Finished in Giallo Modena over Nero leather, black-finished wheels on Giallo calipers, and with the Assetto Fiorano option.

Side view of the Giallo Modena on Nero leather finished 296 GTS, black wheels over Giallo calipers.

Going for the Grigio finish of the Ferrari 296 GTB launch spec, but in Spider form also works perfectly:

Some more side views in different colors … a Ferrari 296 GTS or Spider just doesn’t have a bad looking shade:

June 25, 2021 / Comments Off

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2022 Ferrari 296 GTB Unveiled

Ferrari ‘F171’

Around one week ago, Ferrari had publicly announced that they would be unveiling a brand new model on June 24, 2021 via livestream on social media problems. Since then, Ferrari has been mostly coy about details regarding their “new revolutionary Prancing Horse sports car”, though they did provide a teaser video on Facebook a day before the official reveal. It provides the first real glimpses of the car – in its entirety – while it gets driven in the countryside by Scuderia Ferrari Ambassador and F1 Client Driver Coach, Marc Gené.

Most rumors were suggesting that it would be a twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid supercar, and prototype/mule car spy shots have been assigned with the codename ‘F171’. It was also suggested that this new Ferrari will slot in under the F8 Tributo, becoming the company’s latest ‘entry-level’ mid-engined supercar. This primed the car to become a number of different things, which included:

The possible revival of the Ferrari Dino. This is getting a lot of airtime amongst Ferrari’s most hardcore fans, who have been longing for the return of this legendary badge. Although the new car will be a hybrid, it is the first time since the Dino that Ferrari has used a V6 engine. Hmmmm!
Direct competition for the recently released McLaren Artura, which also interesting features a twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid drivetrain. As 6-cylinder platform, it is likely that Ferrari also has its sights aimed on other similarly-propelled models such as the Porsche 911 Turbo/Turbo S.
The second Ferrari hybrid car – after the SF90 Stradale hypercar – which is also capable of moving on the power of its electric motors alone (albeit for limited distances).

It’s June 24: Here’s What We Now Know For Sure

Official Name

Ferrari 296 GTB

Sorry, Dino romantics. It just wasn’t meant to be. The ‘296’ in the name represents the car’s 2.9L displacement via a 6-cylinder layout for the internal combustion component of its hybrid drivetrain. ‘GTB’ stands for ‘Gran Turismo Berlinetta’, a traditional Ferrari moniker reserved for some of its finest rear-mid-engine 2-seaters in the past, with the 296 GTB therefore a continuation of that lineage.

Where It’s Positioned In The Ferrari Roster

The Ferrari 296 GTB is not a replacement for any models formerly or currently in its product range, with Ferrari stating that it is “creating its own segment”. As we already knew, the 296 GTB is indeed billed as the new ‘entry-level’ mid-engined supercar and is being touted as the automaker’s latest ‘gateway’ to experiencing Ferrari’s race-bred DNA.

During the livestream unveiling, Ferrari went straight to the point, immediately comparing the rear-wheel driven 296 GTB to none other than the brand’s range-topping Ferrari SF90 hypercar. This is an apples-to-apples comparison after all, as the SF90 also has a hybrid powerplant and is only one of two such cars with the 296 GTB now part of the family.

Something along the lines of how the SF90 is for those who want to experience the “peak of performance”, while the 296 GTB gives drivers the opportunity to reach the “peak of emotion”. Basically a clever way of saying that it’s not as fast and not as expensive – but for most people, probably just as good. Plus you don’t have to be Sainz or Leclerc to fully enjoy it.

Ferrari reiterated this by going as far as saying that it believes it to be the “most fun car to drive in our product range”, both on track and on normal roads.

Their “Fun to Drive” philosophy has always been a key component of any Ferrari car, and the 296 GTB is further emboldened by it”. Three ingredients are required to make this happen per Ferrari. The first is ‘sound’ – the symphony provided by the engine. The Second is ‘perceived acceleration’ – not just 0-60 mph and 1/4 mile times, but also how the car transmits the sensation of speed to the driver. The third is ‘go-kart feeling’ – how well the car responds to driver input and its connection to the road.

The epitome of sportiness, performance, and driving thrills at their best. Best in-class performance. Absolute fun to drive. “The best way to explain it, is to drive it”, Ferrari states. Valid point.

And, there’s more!

Ferrari 296 GTB Assetto Fiorano

Also available is a more hardcore version of the car known as the Ferrari 296 GTB Assetto Fiorano, which is named after the company’s iconic test circuit. Not many specifics were revealed about this version, but we were told that it will feature the extensive use of carbon fiber to further reduce the weight. In addition, it will be equipped with a race-derived suspension – for more extreme handling abilities – and racing harnesses. The Assetto Fiorano also gets its own special livery.

Specifications

Engine

2.9L twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid engine mounted in 120 degree “hot V” configuration
663 hp produced from petrol engine
830 hp combined total with electric motor
Almost zero ‘turbo lag’ and instant response from throttle
Most powerful drivetrain in its segment, producing 221 hp per liter – a new world record.
8-speed dual clutch transmission which is ‘fastest shifting’ in the market
Lightweight 7.45 kWh battery provides ~25 km of range when car is powered exclusively by electric motor
0-100 km/h: 2.9 seconds
0-200 km/h: 7.3 seconds

Chassis

New vehicle dynamic controls
Reduced weight as much as possible – achieves a 1.77 kg per hp ratio
Wheelbase is 50 mm shorter than the Ferrari F8 Tributo – less inertia and more agility
6 sensors to help control better the car – includes ABS ‘Evo’ system, which helps to reduce braking distance by almost 10%
Light, sleek and compact architecture

Design

Modern interpretation of classic Ferrari DNA
Rear: Kammtail design with jewel-like tail lights integrated with active rear spoiler. Centrally-positioned tailpipe.
Front: Air intakes integrated with modernized ‘tear-drop’ headlights. Suspended front splitter, similar to that of F1 cars.
More compact than any other Ferrari available right now because of its short-wheel base
Interior: Same design language as exterior – perfect marriage between sportiness and elegance. Ergonomics spot-on. Classic “canceletto” center console. Carbon-fiber bucket seats. Lots of carbon-fiber, metals and high quality leathers.

Pricing & Availability

We’re expecting the first examples of the Ferrari 296 GTB to be delivered in early 2022. No specific word on pricing yet, though it is expected to hover around the F8 Tributo’s base MSRP of US$277,000.

We will provide updates on pricing when more information is available, as well as an in-depth review of the car once journalists have a turn at it.

Image & Video Gallery

June 24, 2021 / Comments Off

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The new Porsche 911 GTS

It has been 12 years since Porsche unveiled the first 911 GTS version, the ‘Sport’ version so to say of the already incredible Porsche 911, and today they added this more dynamic version to the latest incarnation of the 911 supercar from Germany, and it comes with more power and visual styling to set it apart from the regular 911 Carrera, compared to the current 911 Carrera S and the previous-generation 911 GTS, this new version adds 30 PS to the glorious six-cylinder boxer engine for a grand total of 480 PS (353 kW).

Starting at €140,981, the new Porsche 911 GTS is available in five different versions, either as a Carrera or Carrera 4 in both closed Coupé version as well as a breathtaking Cabriolet, but also as a 911 Targa 4 GTS … yes, you’ve seen that correct, the Targa is only available as a four-wheel-drive variant, but you can get them all in either an eight-speed PDK transmission or as a seven-speed manual, the PASM, or Porsche Active Suspension Management has been fine-tuned specifically for this GTS version.

The impressive brake system from the Porsche 911 Turbo is fitted onto the GTS too, but if you really want to get the maximum out of the special 911 GTS edition you’ll have to opt for the Lightweight Design Package that is now available on this GTS for the first time, and that takes 25 kgs off the overall weight of this supercar that can be distinguished from the other 911 models by the elaborate use of black on the exterior and black Race-Tex microfibre on the interior.

Don’t let the GTS name fool you into thinking there is no turbo on this Porsche 911 version, the 3-Liter flat-six engine is still turbocharged and delivers 480 PS as mentioned above, torque comes with a maximum of 570 Nm, the resulting acceleration figures are 3.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h with the PDK transmission, and getting back to a full stop comes courtesy of the high-performance braking system from the Porsche 911 Turbo hiding behind center-lock wheels, 20-inch for the front with a larger 21-inch wheel for the rear.

All of the Porsche 911 GTS models come with the Sport Design package as standard, showing distinctive trim for the front bumper, rear diffuser, and on the side sills. When looking at the trim around the headlight, including the daytime running light surrounds, these are darkened for the GTS, while the LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus) are standard too, however, the GTS does come with unique taillights.

When you would prefer lightweight carbon-fiber bucket seats, lighter glass on the side windows and the rear window, a lightweight battery, and the removal of the, mostly useless rear seats to get rid of about 25 kg of weight … go for the optional Lightweight Design Package, which also happens to come with rear-wheel-steering and some very nice aerodynamic touches.

If you don’t go for the more track-oriented Lightweight Design Package, the Porsche 911 GTS comes with Sport Seats Plus for the occupants with electric four-way adjustments, in front of the driver you’ll find a very nice GT Sport steering wheel and the famous Sport Chrono package, if you opt for the manual seven-speed gearbox, Porsche cuts 10 mm from the gear lever to allow faster gear changes … and just so you get the full acoustic experience, Porsche removed some insulation from the cabin so you can enjoy the sound from the sports exhaust better.

To make the experience complete, the central part of the seats, the steering wheel rim, the door handles and armrests, the storage compartment lid, and the gear lever all get the Race-Tex treatment, a very nice microfibre material inspired by racing, if you go for the GTS interior package you’ll get either Carmine Red or Crayon contrasted stitching, with this option you also get color-matched seat belts, GTS embroidery on the headrest, and the same shade used on the rev counter and Chrono face.

If you are looking to add one of these new Porsche 911 GTS versions to your garage, expect the first deliveries by November 2021.

June 23, 2021 / Comments Off

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High speed testing for the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport

The engineers from Molsheim are hard at work to get the new Bugatti Chiron Super Sport ready for her first deliveries in a few months, the customers will be getting this amazing new hypercar from France from August 2021 onward, and with a top speed of 440 km/h this is the fastest production sports car in the world, so they better make sure it performs and is safe to drive at those impressive speeds.

The intention of the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport is to combine several almost impossible-looking requirements together, be a luxury GT, achieve the highest top speed in the world, and do that with the driver being comfortable … that’s a very tall order, but Jachin Schwalbe, Head of Chassis Development at Bugatti explains why this new Super Sport edition will pull it off.

The development of this latest edition of the Bugatti Chiron has taken it to the open road already, where the test pilots were able to fine-tune most things on the pre-production prototype at speeds up to 380 km/h, but the Super Sport is capable to go beyond the 400 km/h mark with ease, and making sure the car stays stable at those speeds requires taken her onto a closed high-speed track … where they managed to thunder by at the 440 km/h Vmax speed.

To make sure all the necessary data is gathered during this multi-day testing session, the stunning gold and black finished Chiron Super Sport test mule was fitted with about 100 additional sensors … Bugatti heavily relies on the experience of their test drivers, but some things need a more technological approach … in come the sensors and computers to calculate the perfect balance between additional downforce from the rear wing, without compromising top speed with unnecessary drag … this includes the angle of the rear wing, the height of the suspension, the setting on the dampers, and even the electronic steering assist … in the end, it will be a very tight combination of both to ensure the client can use his, or her, new Bugatti Chiron Super Sport to the maximum.

The biggest difference between the Chiron, Chiron Pur Sport, and this new Chiron Super Sport is the extended bodywork, the so-called Longtail set up, but if you look really close you’ll notice just about the entire body on the Super Sport has been modified for optimal aerodynamics to keep the car stable at speeds over 420 km/h.

To achieve the performance and speed required for this new limited edition Bugatti also had to tune their famous engine differently, the 8.0-liter W16 quad-turbo engine now pumps out 1,600 PS (1,176 kW) which is 100 PS more than the regular Chiron, a feat accomplished by using larger turbochargers with highly efficient compressor wheels. And while the car comes with a 7-speed gearbox, she will only change up from 6th to 7th gear at 403 km/h with the engine at 7,100 rpm.

Some more figures perhaps? The Bugatti Chiron Super Sport will reach 400 km/h from standing still in 28.6 seconds … in less than half a minute you’re doing about four times the legal speed limit in most countries, going from 0 to a pedestrian 100 km/h only takes 2.4 seconds … still Bugatti will only make 500 units of their Chiron, and this €3.2 million Super Sport version is part of those 500, after that it’s game over for the Chiron model.

June 22, 2021 / Comments Off

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Zenvo at the Goodwood Festival of Speed

Finally, we are able to visit the famous Goodwood Festival of Speed again this year after the 2020 edition was canceled for obvious reasons, between June 8 and June 11 we’ll be able to admire some of the world’s most impressive supercars and hypercars, both as a static display, and in high-speed action on the impressive ‘hill climb’ session, and the best part perhaps … not all of the cars you can admire at the FoS are street legal.

The Zenvo TSR-S at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2019 – Credit Staledo

Ever since they showed the ST1 at the Goodwood FoS in 2015, Danish car builder Zenvo hasn’t missed an edition, so for this 2021 edition they are bringing the thunder from Denmark once again, not one, not two … but three different Zenvo will be shown at this year’s FoS, and while two will probably be just there for show, one of the limited edition TSR-S hypercars will race on the legendary Goodwood Hill with Zenvo’s own production manager, Alberto Solera, at the wheel.

The Zenvo TSR-S at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2019 – Credit Drew Gibson

Zenvo will put two of their impressive TSR-S hypercars for visitors to admire, with 1,177 hp from a twin-turbocharged 5.8-Liter V8 engine, the TSR-S can reach 100 km/h from a standstill in just 2.8 seconds, only 4 seconds later the tacho will show 200 km/h … the top speed for this amazing hypercar is electronically limited to 325 km/h, and keeping the car firmly down to the track comes courtesy of the patented Zenvo active Centripetal wing at the rear.

Zenvo TSR-S pictured at Goodwood Circuit May 2021 – Credit Philip Harbord

This very special, active rear wing will tilt upward under braking to act as an air brake, but much more impressive to look at is the angle of the wing that changes when the Zenvo TSR-S takes a corner on the track at speed to change downforce actively to the inner side of the car for minimal body roll … and it just looks cool too.

The Zenvo TSR-S at the Michelin Supercar Paddock at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2021

The absolutely stunning looking Baltisk Blå (pearl metallic blue) TSR-S will be shown inside the Michelin Supercar Paddock during the 2021 Goodwood FoS, the place to be for visitors to admire the most recent, state-of-the-art, most powerful, and record-setting cars from all over the world … supercar and hypercar heaven for sure.

But Zenvo is bringing a second TSR-S to Goodwood, their more recent Ishvid Perlemor (pearl metallic white) finished one with the plethora of clear carbon fiber parts, the car this intended to showcase at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show, but as that was canceled too, and just about every subsequent event, the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed will probably be a perfect possibility for many to view this car for the first time.

Angela Kashina, CEO of Zenvo Automotive, said: “Goodwood Festival of Speed is a highlight of our year – it presents a fantastic opportunity to spend time with automotive aficionados and car connoisseurs, and present our limited-edition vehicles. The world-famous event is one of the best stages to demonstrate our TSR-S, with onlookers getting the opportunity to hear its sonorous soundtrack as it performs. After last year’s absence, we are eagerly looking forward to welcoming both existing and new customers as well as enthusiasts to experience the Zenvo brand.”

But wait, there is more … all the way from Denmark, Zenvo will bring their TS1 GT demo car (the two TSR-S are already located in the UK at the time of writing), to be positioned at its team base near the Goodwood circuit. The TS1 GT also comes with a twin-turbocharged 5.8-Liter V8 engine and a sequential injection … power output in the GT is 1,104 hp at 7,100 rpm, but it takes 3.0 seconds to go from 0 to 100 km/h, and while that’s 0.2 seconds slower than the TSR-S, the top speed of the TS1 GT is higher with an impressive 375 km/h.

June 21, 2021 / Comments Off

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