Aftermarket

McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Edward Jones – January 07, 2025

Rogue Van Company Breaks Records with Sale of the RC-1: T...

In a groundbreaking move that’s rewriting the rules of adventure and luxury in the van industry, Rogue Van Company has shattered industry expectations by selling the RC-1, their flagship adventure van, for an unprecedented $625,000. This record-breaking transaction establishes the RC-1 as the most expensive campervan ever sold, cementing Rogue Van Company’s position as a leader and innovator in the van-building industry. “Selling the RC-1 at this price point is not just a victory for Rogue Van Company, but a statement to the entire industry,” said Santiago Fileta, CEO of Rogue Van Company. “We’ve shown that adventure vans are not just vehicles but canvases for innovation, craftsmanship, and storytelling. This sale sets the bar higher for what’s possible and reminds us why we call ourselves ‘Rogue.’” The RC-1’s journey to this historic milestone was nothing short of extraordinary. With its audacious price point and groundbreaking features that defy conventional standards, the RC-1 challenged expectations and redefined what an adventure van could be. Designed to push boundaries, the RC-1 exemplifies the bold vision that has become the hallmark of Rogue Van Company. Breaking Barriers in Van Building For the full detailed tour of the RC-1, visit here. The RC-1’s unparalleled features and design include: Performance & Exterior Innovations: Equipped with an Owl Van’s Curry-built Dana 60 rear axle featuring an Eaton E Locker and 4:10 gears, the RC-1 boasts a fully custom off-road suspension system with Van Compass X Falcon nitrogen piggyback shocks and inverted nitrogen rally struts, both offering spring rate adjustment. Its running assembly is engineered to accommodate 37-inch Toyo tires, along with the tools to tackle any job with a complete Snap-On cordless hand-tool kit embedded into an external locking storage locker , and the exterior includes a custom rooftop wireless davit for effortlessly lifting electric bikes onto the rear door carrier. Luxury Interior Amenities: The RC-1’s interior is a showcase of meticulous craftsmanship, featuring hand-milled walnut river pour countertops, tables, and upper cabinet faces. It includes a dry bar, wine fridge, espresso machine, and a thoughtfully designed entertainment center with full satellite connectivity, an onboard computer, and three separate displays, including a hidden touchscreen monitor behind a flip-out table at the sliding door. Spa-Like Bathroom: The custom shower features a Corian pan with a French drain, complemented by a dry flush toilet and full steam room capabilities, offering unparalleled luxury on the go. This level of detail and innovation was met with skepticism, but the RC-1’s successful sale is proof that the market for ultra-premium adventure vans is not only viable but thriving. Elevating the Rogue Brand This landmark sale reflects Rogue Van Company’s dedication to pushing the limits of design and functionality. The RC-1’s success paves the way for exciting new developments, including: The Gold Label Series, a collection of adventure vans created by niche designers and influencers in the vanlife space. The GridRunner eSprinter, a fully electric van build set to innovate and test the new features in sustainable travel. The highly anticipated Rogue Concept 2, currently under top-secret development, promising to further redefine the industry. Elevating the Rogue Brand The sale of the RC-1 signals a new era where adventure vans are celebrated as works of art and engineering marvels. Rogue Van Company remains committed to challenging norms, elevating the craft, and inspiring the next generation of adventure enthusiasts. Visit RogueVans.com About Rogue Van Company Rogue Van Company specializes in crafting bespoke adventure vans that blend luxury, innovation, and rugged functionality. Dedicated to pushing boundaries, Rogue Van Company’s mission is to redefine what’s possible in van building, one bold design at a time.

By Tyler Rampersaud – November 25, 2024

BRABUS Unveils New Deep Blue Series

These new BRABUS models are a bolt from the blue. Although the manufacturer is most well-known for its transformations of Mercedes-Benz models, the scope of BRABUS has expanded significantly, introducing over-the-top, ultra-luxurious, and high-performance reimaginations of many of the automotive world’s favorite vehicles like the Range Rover and the Porsche 911. In addition, BRABUS’s signature combination of red and black has also been expanded on, with a widened color palette over the years that includes interesting configurations. The most recent addition to BRABUS’s wide lineup is a combination of these two achievements, a new “Deep Blue Series” that shows off a range of BRABUS transformations in a unique inky blue color. The series consists of the BRABUS 900 Deep Blue, which is based on the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, the BRABUS XLP 900 6x6 Deep Blue, based on the Mercedes-AMG G 63, and the BRABUS 900 Deep Blue, based on the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63. One of the world’s most iconic super sports cars, the Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet is transformed with a bespoke carbon fiber body kit, custom wheels, and BRABUS turbochargers upgrading the total power to 900 horsepower and 737 lb/ft of torque. It’ll get from 0-60 in just 2.5 seconds with a limited top speed of 211 mph, and its custom BRABUS Masterpiece interior features Ice Blue leather throughout, with a special “Ellipse” quilting pattern. The BRABUS XLP 900 6x6 Deep Blue is a dramatic and head-turning 6x6 version of the Mercedes-AMG G 63, with 900 horsepower and 922 lb/ft of torque thanks to the increased displacement of its 4.5-liter engine. Despite being a massive custom 6x6, it will still get from 0-60 in just 5.2 seconds and top out at 130 mph. Its slate grey leather interior is adorned with a special “Triangle” quilting pattern. The same 900 horsepower and 922 lb/ft of torque is part of the equation for the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63-based BRABUS 900 Deep Blue, with a 3.6-second 0-60 time and a 205-mph top speed, an impressive number for a large luxury SUV. Like the others, it features a blue exterior color and a custom carbon fiber body kit, and its interior is upholstered in Slate Grey leather with a mussel shell design for the quilting. All three feature a striking dark blue color, custom BRABUS style, and robust performance, showing off a new look to BRABUS’s typical customization excellence. View All Vehicles For Sale From BRABUS Image Source: BRABUS

By Sponsored Article – November 05, 2024

EarthRoamer LTx: The Ultimate Expedition Vehicle Redefined

The all-new EarthRoamer LTx is a leap in expedition vehicle innovation, crafted with insights from over 425 custom-built vehicles and decades of feedback from seasoned adventurers. Built on the trusted Ford F-550 platform, the LTx is a luxurious yet durable mobile fortress, offering an unprecedented blend of power, panoramic views, and ample space for any adventure. With the LTx, EarthRoamer introduces an entirely new floor plan, which boasts a 270-degree view through dual-pane stained glass windows, a substantial rear garage for storage, and upgraded amenities that enhance comfort and functionality on the road. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the EarthRoamer LTx the most advanced and capable iteration in the LT series. Power and Efficiency Redefined The LTx’s engineering focuses on power and sustainability, providing a 24V electrical system that enhances air conditioning efficiency by up to 45% over its predecessor, the LTi. This system not only boosts air conditioning performance but also speeds up charging via both the alternator and solar panels. A standard 18 kWh lithium-ion battery bank (a 50% increase from the LTi model) ensures reliable power for extended off-grid adventures, while the increased inverter system delivers an impressive 9,000 watts, a 300% improvement over the LTi, making the LTx more capable of handling demanding appliances and tools. In addition to this, the LTx’s upgraded solar capacity—with four solar panels totaling 1,480 watts—offers an 11% increase over the previous model. The vehicle’s alternator output also received an 11% boost, improving its off-grid stamina. And with a new shore power charger separate from the inverter, the LTx now has flexible charging options compatible with GFCI outlets and various international power sources. Next-Level Interior Design and Comfort EarthRoamer took comfort to new heights with the LTx’s redesigned interior, focusing on spaciousness, adaptability, and style. The all-new L-shaped dining sectional can accommodate up to four adults for meals, convert into a secondary bed, or serve as a cozy lounging area. The wider 26-inch entry door, complete with an integrated bug screen and molly panel, allows easy access while keeping pests at bay. The California King bed in the overhead bunk, with dual side storage and charging, ensures restful nights with plenty of room to stow essentials. Visit EarthRoamer.com For added luxury, the LTx features an upgraded wet bath that combines increased storage with high-end finishes like teak accents and air slate, creating a spa-like experience. The innovative Invisacook cooktop, seamlessly mounted under a porcelain countertop, transforms the galley into a flexible workspace and cooking area, catering to both culinary and organizational needs. Practical Innovations for Real-World Adventures The LTx introduces practical improvements that make life on the road easier. With a redesigned floor plan, the LTx now includes up to 10 cubic feet of fridge and freezer space, allowing adventurers to bring more of what they need on extended trips. The new entry cabinet is versatile, transforming the entryway into a mini mudroom with storage for shoes, jackets, and accessories. Inside, storage has increased by 36% thanks to the addition of a rear garage, making it ideal for stashing extra gear without compromising interior space. The LTx also comes equipped with a 42-inch LED HDTV that can either disappear to provide an unobstructed view of the stunning landscapes outside or elevate to create a premium entertainment experience. Another practical addition is the locking barn door pass-through, offering privacy and security by locking off the camper body from the vehicle chassis. Adventure Elevated with EarthRoamer LTx The EarthRoamer LTx is a testament to the brand’s commitment to evolving alongside its users. With its combination of off-grid capability, advanced technology, luxurious comfort, and practical design, the LTx redefines what it means to travel in style and security. Whether tackling remote landscapes or simply enjoying the open road, the EarthRoamer LTx sets a new standard for expedition vehicles, providing a home away from home where adventure meets uncompromising luxury. View EarthRoamers For Sale

By Tyler Rampersaud – October 25, 2024

BRABUS Reveals Three New Custom Mercedes-AMG G 63 Configu...

BRABUS puts its spin on the new G-Class. Mercedes-Benz recently revamped one of the most important icons in its lineup, the G-Class. Known for being the longest-standing model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the G-Class has achieved considerable fame and acclaim, whether for its off-road capability, its luxurious appointments, its unmistakable style, or its celebrity-loved glamor. However, the new generation has evolved the cherished model further, and BRABUS, well-known for its over-the-top customizations of Mercedes-Benz models, has finally revealed its version of the new G-Class. The new BRABUS 800 based on the latest W 465 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been revealed in three different configurations: Superblack, Deep Blue, and Mean Green, with two different versions of BRABUS’s signature WIDESTAR body kit, and a BRABUS MASTERPIECE interior. All three versions are based on the new Mercedes-AMG G 63, with an enhanced version of the G 63’s performance-oriented twin-turbocharged V8 engine. The BRABUS rendition of the engine boasts 788 horsepower and 737 lb/ft of torque. They’ll get from a standstill to 60 miles per hour in less than 4.0 seconds and reach a limited top speed of 149 mph. As its name suggests, the Superblack configuration is finished in all-black, with black bodywork paired with exposed carbon fiber accents seen in the WIDESTAR kit, black wheels, and a BRABUS MASTERPIECE interior finished in black leather and Alcantara. Meanwhile, the Mean Green configuration boasts a green exterior, with green tinted carbon fiber, and an interior with emerald green Alcantara and opal-colored leather, paired with green tinted exposed carbon fiber accents. Deep Blue shows off a blue exterior, which is paired with blue tinted exposed carbon fiber, which complements the blue carbon fiber and blue leather featured in its interior. The Superblack BRABUS 800 G 63 costs roughly $515,000, while the Mean Green configuration has a price of about $535,000, and the Deep Blue is the most expensive of the three new custom Mercedes-Benz G Wagons at a price of roughly $557,000. With exclusivity, incredible craftsmanship, high performance, unique design, and a price tag to match, the new BRABUS G-Class is the latest evolution of a one-of-a-kind super SUV. View All Vehicles For Sale From BRABUS Image Source: BRABUS

By Sponsored Article – October 24, 2024

The Fox Factory Silverado: The Ultimate Prerunner Wrapped...

In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Fox Factory has unleashed a limited-production supertruck that redefines the boundaries of performance and style. This isn't just any truck—it's a purpose-built, high-performance prerunner that comes straight from the factory with features and capabilities that will make even the most discerning off-road enthusiasts sit up and take notice. " width="680"> Fox Factory has built a reputation for pushing the limits of race technology, and its new Silverado is no exception. With the most suspension travel of any production truck currently available—14.5 inches in the front and 15.5 inches in the rear—this truck is engineered to conquer even the most challenging terrains. What really sets it apart are the massive FOX 3.2” Live Valve Internal Bypass Dampers, the largest shocks ever fitted to a production truck, ensuring that this Silverado is ready to tackle everything from rocky trails to desert dunes with confidence and control. Every detail of the Fox Factory Silverado speaks to a high level of craftsmanship and an OE+ level fit and finish. The exterior is dressed to impress with carbon fiber body panels, one-piece inner fender liners, and injection-molded vents and panel inserts that contribute to both the truck's aesthetics and functionality. Inside, carbon accents adorn the custom steering wheel, trim panels, and badging, creating a cohesive and luxurious feel throughout the cabin. Underneath all the stunning looks and meticulous craftsmanship lies a beast of an engine. With a 3.0L Whipple supercharged 6.2L L87 V8 engine, delivering a staggering 700 horsepower, this Silverado is poised to dominate any competition. The custom tune ensures optimal performance, while high-strength billet aluminum control arms and trailing arms add both durability and visual appeal. Fox Factory has also equipped the truck with FOX 3.2 Live Valve Coilovers with Internal Bypass, controlled via an in-cab touchpoint, allowing for optimized damping adjustments on the fly, no matter the terrain. To mark its half-century of innovation, Fox Factory is producing just 500 of these serialized trucks, making it not only a performance marvel but also a collector's item. Each truck is carefully crafted to embody Fox Factory's ethos of pushing potential further, offering a unique blend of high-performance engineering and sophisticated design. Whether you're hitting the trails under the blazing sun or navigating through pitch-black nights, the Fox Factory Silverado has you covered. It comes standard with 60,000 lumens of night-piercing LED lighting up front, ensuring you can always see the road—or lack thereof—ahead. High-clearance steel prerunner bumpers and skid plates add another layer of protection, readying the truck for any off-road adventure. Fox Factory stands behind its product with a 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty, offering peace of mind to those lucky enough to own one of these limited-edition trucks. As they put it, "It's the Silverado, turned performance prerunner on steroids" and "the ultimate prerunner wrapped up with a bow tie badge." With the Fox Factory Silverado, we're welcoming a new era in supertrucks built to outperform on any terrain. Whether you're a collector, a performance enthusiast, or simply someone who demands the very best, this truck represents the pinnacle of what a production prerunner can be. Get ready to experience off-roading like never before with a truck that’s been engineered to exceed expectations in every way. Visit FoxFactoryTruck.com

By Tyler Rampersaud – October 22, 2024

LOKI Announces Production Of New Falcon X15 Adventure

LOKI Expedition brings a new masterpiece to fruition. Known for transforming the experience of traveling the great outdoors, LOKI Expedition creates vehicles that are ready for just about any adventure. With state-of-the-art amenities and incredible capability, LOKI Expedition allows adventurers to bring luxury to remote locations for unforgettable experiences in nature. One of the latest LOKI Expedition creations is the new Ford F-550-based Falcon X15 Adventure, which LOKI Expedition has recently rolled off the assembly line. In a new announcement on Instagram, the manufacturer has proudly brought the new Falcon X15 to fruition, equipped with a 900Ah battery pack, 1600W solar panels, Starlink connectivity, a king size bed, and a full dry bath/shower. With the new LOKI Expedition Falcon X15 now produced, LOKI continues to show off the pinnacle of highly capable luxury adventuring vehicles. If you want to experience the great outdoors with ease, comfort, and luxury, a LOKI Expedition vehicle is a surefire way to achieve that. Learn More View this post on Instagram A post shared by Loki Expedition (@lokiexpedition)

By Charles Bradley – October 10, 2024

Prodrive Turns A 1967 Ford Mustang Into The Ultimate Rest...

Who knew that a 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback would make the perfect all-terrain endurance rally car? Well, UK-based preparation legends Prodrive, who conquered the World Rally Championship with Subaru and the Le Mans 24 Hours with Aston Martin, has put all its expertise and 2,000 man hours into turning an American icon into a purpose-built, drive-it-anywhere high-performance restomod, called the HERO-ERA 1. And to prove it, the prototype just finished the world’s wildest endurance rallying event, the 37-day, 8,500-mile Peking to Paris Motor Challenge across some of the most inhospitable terrain on earth, in the hands of BMW, Lamborghini and Mercedes-AMG GT3 racing ace Jon Minshaw, and historic racer Katarina Kyvalova – whose usual whip is a 1928 4.5-liter Bentley! Prodrive calls this the “ultimate historic endurance rally car”, designed to compete across any distance, any terrain at any temperature. And a limited number are for sale right now: Prodrive founder and chairman David Richards told duPont REGISTRY that an initial run of five will be built, the second of which is under construction right now. The car boasts a 5.4-liter, 302cui Ford Windsor V8 engine that has been tuned to run on either high or low octane fuel, yet capable of producing 400bhp even at temperatures of 14F to 104F. A 120-liter fuel cell gives a range of 400 miles, and a Tremec TKX 5-speed stick shift gearbox delivers the power to a strengthened 9-inch rear axle via a limited slip differential. At the front, suspension is provided by double coil-over adjustable Bilstein dampers with extended travel, paired with tubular wishbones and tierods. At the rear, reinforced turreted rear dampers are coupled with upgraded specification leaf springs, Panhard Rod, and Bilstein GP4 dampers. A full FIA-style multi-point rollcage includes low mount door bars, ensuring safety without compromising agility. The bodyshell is available in 20 different colors, and each car costs around $460,000 in ready-to-roll form. Image Source: Prodrive

By Tyler Rampersaud – September 23, 2024

TECHART Unveils New 1-of-20 MONOCHROME For 911 Turbo 50th...

TECHART celebrates the Porsche 911 Turbo’s 50th anniversary with a unique creation. The “Turbo” moniker has described top-of-the-line performance-oriented Porsche models for 50 years. Going beyond simply describing the inclusion of a turbocharger, the “Turbo” level of a Porsche model describes peak performance and luxury, even extending to all-electric models like the new Macan Electric Turbo and the Porsche Taycan Turbo lineup. However, when it originated 50 years ago, the Porsche Turbo name originally designated a turbocharged engine, first introduced in the 911 Turbo half a century ago. With 50 years of Porsche Turbo legacy to celebrate, TECHART, a prolific creator of Porsche-based custom performance cars, is ringing in the historic anniversary with a new, highly exclusive limited-edition model. That new model is the MONOCHROME, based on the TECHART GTStreet R, which itself is based on the Porsche 911 Turbo S. The MONOCHROME is limited to 20 units, making it a collector-grade, highly exclusive celebration of Porsche heritage. With over 800 horsepower and a top speed that eclipses 217 mph, the new TECHART MONOCHROME is the ultimate expression of Porsche Turbo performance from TECHART. In addition, it features a custom interior crafted in materials like leather, carbon fiber and Alcantara to enhance its luxury performance ethos. The customizations continue to include features like a set of 21 and 22-inch wheels, which are lightweight, strong, and improve brake ventilation. With its various customizations and the fact that it builds on the already exclusive and excellent TECHART GTStreet R, based on the iconic Porsche 911 Turbo S, the new TECHART MONOCHROME is not just one of the most exclusive and highly desirable TECHART custom Porsche creations yet. It’s also a masterpiece that celebrates the monumental 50th anniversary of the Porsche 911 Turbo and the incredible Porsche Turbo legacy it spurred. View All Porsche 911 Turbo S For Sale Image Source: TECHART

By Sponsored Article – August 22, 2024

Unleashing the Beast: The 2024 700HP and 800HP Supercharg...

In the spirit of the legendary Yenko Camaros, Specialty Vehicle Engineering (SVE) has unveiled the 2024 700HP and 800HP Yenko/SC® Supercharged Silverado Off-Road—a pickup truck that combines the rugged capability of a Silverado with the blistering performance of a supercharged engine. This limited-edition powerhouse is available exclusively on 2024 4WD crew cab and double cab LTZ, RST, ZR2, and LT Trail Boss Z71 models, making it a must-have for those who crave both off-road prowess and high-octane thrills. At the heart of the 2024 Yenko/SC® Silverado Off-Road is a supercharged engine that delivers an astounding 700 horsepower from the 5.3L variant and an even more impressive 800 horsepower from the 6.2L option. This engine is a marvel of modern engineering, featuring a blueprinted aluminum block, a race-quality balanced rotating assembly, and forged components that ensure durability under extreme conditions. The high-output supercharger assembly, paired with a custom stainless steel exhaust system, guarantees that this truck doesn't just perform—it commands attention with its aggressive roar. What truly sets the Yenko/SC® Silverado Off-Road apart is SVE’s innovative Boost-By-Wire™ Control System. This patent-pending technology addresses the common challenge of drivability with positive displacement superchargers, where power delivery can be abrupt and difficult to manage in everyday driving. Boost-By-Wire™ solves this by providing full variable boost control directly linked to the pressure applied to the accelerator pedal. This means drivers can smoothly transition from cruising to unleashing the truck’s full potential, making the Yenko/SC® both a beast on demand and a surprisingly refined ride when needed. The exterior of the Yenko/SC® Silverado Off-Road is as commanding as its performance. Unique 1/4 panel graphics, custom wheels, and striking 700HP or 800HP badges on the hood insert and tailgate ensure that this truck stands out in any crowd. The hood insert itself, crafted from high-impact composite material, features a gloss-finish body color with flat black louvers, while the LT Trail Boss and ZR2 models benefit from a redesigned GM hood insert with a bold body color and flat black center inset. These design elements combine to give the truck a menacing look that perfectly matches its capabilities. Inside, the Yenko/SC® Silverado Off-Road continues to impress with bespoke interior touches that set it apart from the standard Silverado. SYC Off Road embroidered front headrests and Yenko® crest embroidered floormats add a layer of exclusivity and remind you that this is no ordinary pickup. For those who need to haul with urgency, the 2024 Yenko/SC® Silverado Off-Road is more than capable. Limited to just 50 units of each model, this truck is not only the quickest full-size pickup of the 2024 model year but also one of the rarest. Whether you're dominating off-road trails or making a statement on city streets, the Yenko/SC® Silverado Off-Road delivers unmatched power, style, and exclusivity. Learn More

By Tyler Rampersaud – August 20, 2024

BRABUS Reveals New Individualization Program For The Smar...

You can BRABUS-ize your electric city crawler. While BRABUS is normally known for over-the-top customizations of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, another brand related to Mercedes-Benz that BRABUS is known for giving its signature spin to is Smart. BRABUS has created iconic custom cars based on the classic Smart car, as well as the Smart Roadster and other new models. Most recently, however, BRABUS has created a new Individualization Program for the Smart #3, the brand’s new small, all-electric coupe SUV model. Imbuing the nimble electric city car with its signature “1-Second-Wow” effect, the new BRABUS-customized Smart #3 features a body kit, custom wheels, a revised interior, and more. The body kit enhances the car's look, giving it a distinctly sportier feel. It also enhances its aerodynamic performance, reducing front axle lift at high speeds. With ten-spoke Monoblock Z wheels, customers can choose between the dramatic look of a 20-inch or 21-inch set. The suspension of the Smart #3 can be revised with the new Individualization Program, as well. BRABUS provides a set of sports springs, lowering the ride height of the car by 1.4 inches and working in harmony with the car’s OEM shock absorbers. The interior is also available with BRABUS refinements, ranging from sill plates with backlit BRABUS logos to new floor mats, a velour trunk liner, and aluminum pedal pads for a sportier feel. If you want a practical compact electric car but refuse to let it be boring, BRABUS provides its signature head-turning effect in a small Smart car package. View All Vehicles For Sale From BRABUS Image Source: BRABUS

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