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 – May 26, 2015

Larte Design "Black Crystal" Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

From European luxury tuning company Larte Design comes a new package for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. To introduce this new package, Larte Design has created the "Black Crystal," a custom SUV that displays just how incredible the package looks when fully implemented.In the front of the car, the package adds a Larte Design front bumper. This bumper is defined by crystalline accents and aggressive geometry, and within the bumper are LED daytime running lights by Nolden, carbon fiber inserts and air inlets.On the sides of the "Black Crystal" are front and rear fender flares and side skirts from the GL-Class package. Worked into the front fender flares are air vents for the front wheel wells. These give the GL-Class a muscular and wider stance that is visible from just about any angle.Larte Design also equips the SUV with a four-pipe stainless steel exhaust system designed by Austrian exhaust manufacturer Remus. With carbon fiber on the outside of the exhaust system and steel on the inside, it not only looks great, but it also sounds ferocious.(See Also: LARTE Design Tesla Model S Elizabeta Package Unveiled)"Black Crystal" is just one example in the long lineup of offerings from Larte Design. They also have tuning kits that enhance other premium SUVs, such as the Infiniti QX60, QX70 and QX80; Range Rover Sport and Evoque; and Lexus LX 570.For those interested in the package for the GL-Class or another model, be sure to visit www.Larte-Design.com or click the button below.More InfoGallery Sponsored by:

By Andrew Nabors – May 22, 2015

ADV.1 1978 Datsun 280Z Project

Without a doubt, the classic Datsun Z car is one of the most beautiful and capable GT cars of all time. If you haven’t owned one, they are a fun and affordable sports car. Everyone that has sold theirs seems to regret parting ways after the fact. This wild build by ADV.1 wheels is motivated by just such a story.Jordan Swerdloff, President of ADV.1, takes us behind the scenes into their workshop in a May 18 press release. What we see are the final stages of building the ultimate 1978 Datsun 280Z. While the original straight six had decent power, they took the path less traveled and sourced the twin turbo driveline of a late model Toyota Supra.A giant single turbo replaced the small factory twins, but the six-speed manual transmission would not be strong enough for their needs. In its place lies a bulletproof Ford C4 automatic with a loose torque converter. It allows the 825 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque to reach the forged ADV.1 wheels through a custom 5-lug conversion.The interior sports a full cage with AutoMeter gauges and a B&M ratchet shifter. Out back is a fuel cell and one of the largest bottles of Nitrous Oxide we have seen. Jordan says the system is plumbed for a 250 hp shot, but he is hesitant to use it. With the price of Supra engines still among the most expensive in the aftermarket, his apprehension is justifiable.Stay tuned to Autofluence to see what it looks like on the street.Gallery (Source: ADV.1 Wheels) See More Wheels News

By Andrew Nabors – May 18, 2015

AMS Performance Alpha 7 Mercedes-Benz Performance Package

Extracting more power from an already potent car is no easy task. Only a handful of companies have the resources to reverse engineer today’s complex engine management, and to properly reinforce the driveline accordingly. Our friends at AMS Performance have made a name for themselves by exponentially increasing the output of everything they can get ahold of.AMG builds some of the world's fastest cars, but what if you demand more from your Mercedes-Benz? The 5.5-liter (M157) V8 can be found under the hoods of late model CLS63 and E63 AMGs, and from the factory they produce 577 hp and 590 lb-ft. By unlocking the computer’s operating system, they are able to dispense with the luxury-minded parameters, replacing them with what can only be described as “beast mode.”Thanks to thoughtful German engineers, the factory turbochargers are perfectly sized to the engine. Because of their efficiency, the computer rarely allows them to reach their full potential. That’s where the Alpha 7 package begins. Any exhaust downstream of the turbo restricts its abilities, but in order to build a civilized sedan AMG burdens the system with several mufflers and resonators.This may be acceptable at the country club, but an engine note should be enjoyed to the fullest extent possible. Starting with new 3” downpipes, AMS Performance has fabricated a beautiful system out of mandrel bent stainless steel. Mufflers on a turbocharged car are mostly superfluous, as the turbos themselves eliminate most of the harsh sounds. This allows AMS to build a mostly open system that retains the catalytic converters for emissions control. The resulting soundtrack is nothing short of audible euphoria.By awakening the turbos and removing their restrictions, the Alpha 7 package makes over 700 hp and 830 lb-ft of torque. That’s two and a half times the torque of the potent CLA 45 AMG. In terms of performance, you will need a tire sponsor.Launching the AWD Alpha 7 E63 at the drag strip returned multiple ten-second time slips. Check it out in the video above, added to YouTube by AMS Performance Aug. 20, 2014.For a standing mile test, a worthy competitor was found in an MP4-12C. You can see this in the video below, added by AMS Performance to YouTube July 16, 2014.From a standstill, 60 mph arrives in 2.85 seconds, and since the speed limiter is removed in the new programming, the Alpha 7 will go as fast as you can tolerate. Optional for warmer climates is their new boost cooler. It includes a larger heat exchanger for the intercoolers to prevent heat soak from stealing your power.For pricing of the kit or individual components, click the button below for their website, call AMS Performance at 847-709-0530, or email them at info@alphaperformance.com Be sure to check out their YouTube channel and Autofluence for more maniacal Mercedes models from AMS.More InfoSource:

flyinghuntsman-105defender-051515-feature

By Andrew Nabors – May 15, 2015

Flying Huntsman 105 Defender Pick Up Prototype by Kahn De...

Last we heard from Afzal Kahn of Kahn Design, he had worked his magic on a late model Land Rover Defender 90, outfitting it with Harris Tweed and diamond stitched leather. In a May 14 press release, they formally announced a pickup version of their “Flying Huntsman.”They have raised the bar again, this time starting with the Defender 90 pickup. Leaving no body panel untouched, they have added over 15” to the wheelbase by building a custom frame and all-new body panels. Initially, they offered the Flying Huntsman as a traditional hardtop. For the Geneva Auto Show, they added a third axle to create a 6x6 version. If your sensibilities lie in practical pickups, the utility of a half-cab can’t be overlooked.Under the longer bonnet lies a Chevrolet 6.2-liter V8 and six speed automatic. That level of power in such a small truck will translate into a virtually unstoppable off-road athlete. A modern suspension and big brakes were also fitted to keep the Huntsman shiny side up.Kahn’s prowess in machining is shown in even the smallest detail. From the fabricated bumpers, to the billet pedals, not much of the original remains. At this level of custom coachbuilding, the Flying Huntsman is no longer a Land Rover. This loophole would make importing much easier, and we hope to see them over here in the near future.(See Also: James Bond's Supercars of Specter)Pricing is listed as starting at £58,875, or approximately $92,962 USD at the time of publication. This pricing does not include the country specific vehicle arrival tax. Sadly, there was no mention of a left-hand drive variant found in the release. That comes in cheaper than an Escalade, with just as much power and prestige. Stay tuned to Autofluence for more wild updates from Kahn Design.View All Land Rover ListingsGallery (Source: Kahn News/Kahn Design) See More Land Rover News

By Caitlin Duffy – April 21, 2015

2014 Polaris Ranger Crew 6x6 from Starwood Motors

This is not an off-road toy for the feint of heart.Nor is this a cart for someone who just wants to golf.This is for the person who actively seeks a challenge in life, and will acquire whatever means are necessary to surmount that impassable impasse. This is the cart for a duPont REGISTRY reader.Starwood Motors is the brand to turn to when you want to take the world's most powerful machines and make them impeccably strong, quite literally, bulletproof. This 2014 Polaris Ranger Crew 6x6 from them is no exception to their Kevlar creations. With a 3 cylinder diesel engine, a speedometer that goes up to 70 mph, four powerful speakers blaring out the back and 34x10-15 Terminator Tires tires ready for any terrain, this is the type of vehicle you want when you have no clue what's in store next.(See Also: Marshall Goldman's Collection of Rare BMW Z8 Alpinas)There's room for yourself and three passengers to sit comfortably, as well as a flat bed in the back to throw in whatever equipment you may need for where your excursions will take you, and once you get there, set up the custom sound system and provide enough power to host a private concert. Just make sure your passengers are out of the back seat before turning them on.With a gloss black Kevlar coating finish, you know this off-roader is resistant to and ready for any condition. To see the full price and information, be sure to visit duPontREGISTRY.com by hitting the button below.View Listing & Price Gallery See More Exclusive Listings

By Edward Jones – March 16, 2015

Terradyne GURKHA RPV Civilian Edition

You have most likely already seen the GURKHA out on the roads or perhaps in the movies. Now you have an opportunity to own this exclusive and ultimate tactical vehicle. Introducing the GURKHA RPV Civilian Edition by Terradyne Armored Vehicles.Terradyne’s core product is the GURKHA, a tactical armored vehicle available in three configurations, LAPV, MPV and RPV. The GURKHA is designed, tested and manufactured to perform within law enforcement, homeland security and military defense applications, and it is now being offered to the public. In order to ensure the GURKHA’s resilience, Terradyne subjected it to a variety of test programs including road worthiness testing, ballistic and blast destructive testing and off-road capability testing. Each of their vehicles have conquered gruelling terrain and harsh environments, while also participating in several military field trials on proving grounds in various countries.The RPV Civilian Edition base model’s interior is well equipped with seating for up-to five, with an optional VIP interior package available. Numerous other optional accessories are available, including a front winch for offroad applications or a rear trailer hitch to haul your race car to the track. Standard equipment includes full exterior LED lighting, remote power door locks and GPS navigation.With a commanding presence and aggressive stance, the RPV Civilian Edition is designed to navigate through the urban grid lock with ease and enables full operator confidence for those leisurely off-road excursions. Regardless if you are towing your boat down to the water or out for a cruise on the strip, the GURKHA RPV Civilian Edition will captivate everyone in its path.Terradyne’s GURKHA RPV Civilian Edition is now available in limited production. For more information visit: TerradyneINC.com or click the button below.Gallery Sponsored by:

By Andrew Nabors – March 05, 2015

Mitchell Motor Works 1969 Chevrolet Camaro RS SS For Sale

Camaro’s sixth generation will soon be upon us, but 1969 will always be the most important year for this American icon. This pristine example is the latest build from Mitchell Motor Works, and is the result of a few years of restoration and fabrication. No expense was spared in order to push the envelope in terms of performance. If you are confused by this car’s title, Camaros offered a Rally Sport (RS) package that included spoilers, hidden headlights and an upgraded interior. If you wanted the ultimate in style and speed, ordering the RS and SS packages together resulted in a very potent pony car. For a solid foundation, the car was completely disassembled and placed on a rotisserie. Their goal was to build a track-ready street car, so the suspension had to be all new. Starting with Heidt’s Pro-G front end, every component, from brakes to ball joints, is all new and made to perform. An adjustable 4-link holds the Moser 12 bolt rear in place. Front and rear are tied together with fully welded subframe connectors. For the ultimate stopping power, Wilwood 13” brakes in the front and 12” in the rear are commanded by a Hydra-Tech/Wilwood master cylinder. Without the drivetrain this car is well into six figures.To power the world’s most capable Camaro, Mitchell turned to the LS tuning masters at NicKey Chicago. Their Stage II LS3 makes 575 HP and has CNC ported cylinder heads. 575 hp is sent through a T56 six-speed manual transmission to the 12 bolt rear end. The TrueTrac differential has 3.73 gears for comfortable highway cruising. An all stainless exhaust features dual cut-outs before the X-pipe if you need to wake your neighbors. Engine controls are all GM, with electronic throttle control and cruise control.If you prefer music instead of exhaust, the interior is awash in Alpine audio. The 7” touchscreen has Bluetooth connectivity along with USB and satellite radio. All vehicle systems are controlled by touch pads, including the Vintage Air system. Corbeau black leather seats straddle a handmade center console. Kindig door handles and ambient lighting are among the myriad of other aspects that make this Camaro one for the ages.To fully describe each aspect of this design would take months, so below is a gallery of highlights. You can clearly see the attention to detail that can’t be replicated at this price. To see its price and more information, click the button below.View Price and ListingGallery Sponsored by:

By Edward Jones – October 08, 2014

Build Your Own Urban Warrior SUV

When buying a new car, one of the fun parts is picking out all of the options you would like to equip your car with. From the color, to the size of the media display, most auto manufacturers give you multiple options.One manufacturer that gives you a surprising amount of options in a very unique vehicle is Sean Hyland Motorsports (SHM). Their vehicle, the Urban Warrior, can be built to your liking through their build page, which offers a bevy of options.At the start, select the Urban Warrior 110 model, which is a hardtop SUV powered by a Ford Coyote 5.0-liter V8 engine. This engine provides the Urban Warrior 110 with 420 hp. The base price for this model is $99,850. SHM also offers different seating arrangements for the Urban Warrior 110, including options for 4, 5, 7 and 9 passengers.Inside, customers can pick from options that either add a luxurious touch, such as the Alcantara headliner, or functionality, like cruise control.Where the options really start to roll in is on the exterior. Front the front bumper, to the rear, just about every piece of the SUV can be customized to the customer's liking. The options include LED headlights, LineX coat, winch mounting and much more. Three different types of wheels can also be picked from, including 18, 20 and 22-inches.If your are concerned about safety, SHM also offers two armoring options, including B4 and B5 spec. armoring.To build your own Urban Warrior, see the price list and learn about everything you can choose from, be sure to click the button below.View Option Prices and Build Your OwnSponsored by

By Edward Jones – September 04, 2014

2014 Urban Warrior 110 For Sale

Sean Hyland Motorsport's latest project, the Urban Warrior 110, is an ultra-luxury, high-performance 4x4 based on the iconic Defender 110. While the Urban Warrior 110 may be based on the Defender, it is most certainly on a higher level.Powering the SUV is a capable Ford 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine that produces 420 hp @ 6,500 RPM and 390 lb-ft of torque @ 4,250 RPM. This engine offers outstanding power, fuel mileage and dependability, all at the same time.For those looking to get a little extra out of the Coyote engine, Sean Hyland Motorsport also offers two engine upgrades for the Urban Warrior 110. The first upgrade raises the engine's output to 605 hp, thanks to a patent-pending Sean Hyland Motorsport supercharger, new intake manifold, intercooler and more. Pricing for this upgrade is set at $10,000. Customers are also be able to chose a 700 hp upgrade for $16,000. More InfoMated to the engine and handling whatever level of power you choose is either the standard 6-speed manual transmission or the optional automatic overdrive transmission. The latter allows for quick and easy shifts on the fly and can switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive. Both the transmission and transfer case have been engineered to handle both engine upgrades.With great power, even greater braking is needed. Sean Hyland Motorsport knows this and has equipped the Urban Warrior with massive six-piston front brakes. Additionally, upgraded wheels and tires, plus heavy duty axles and differentials, come standard to match the increased power of the vehicle. More InfoComplementing its notable powertrain is the Urban Warrior 110's appearance. Its exterior is very modern and stylish, featuring the aforementioned stylish wheels, LED lighting and custom body pieces. Of course, there is a long list of exterior options that Sean Hyland Motorsport can equip your Urban Warrior 110 with.Inside is a luxurious and spacious cabin that would make any modern luxury SUV driver feel right at home. Interior surfaces are covered with leather, while optional Alcantara and carbon fiber accents are also available. Modern technologies, such as electric windows, various audio options and heated seats, can also be equipped in the Urban Warrior 110.Now is your chance to own your very own Urban Warrior 110 from Sean Hyland Motorsport. They currently have one example for sale on their website, UrbanWarrior4x4.com, with a $173,165 pricetag. It comes packed full of options that make it one of the most sophisticated and capable 4x4s on the road today. Be sure to click the button below to learn more about these amazing vehicles and stay with us to learn how you can build your very own Urban Warrior.Buy Yours NowGallery Black Leather Recaro Front Seats Supercharged Ford 5.0-liter V8 Engine 22-inch Wheels With Cooper TiresSponsored by

By Edward Jones – August 25, 2014

In the Driver's Seat: Ben Chen and His Gemballa Mirage GT

Benjamin Chen, one of the founders of the goldRush Rally and in the news recently for hitting 246 mph in his Veyron, is a collector of cars with the desire for each to be the best of the best. While he is known for having a primarily white collection, his latest addition stands out even more than usual. He has recently added a gorgeous blue Gemballa Mirage GT (#23) to his collection. The color scheme comes from his first exotic car, a 2007 Porsche Turbo, which he and his father purchased together. To honor his late father, he plans on having every two-door Porsche finished in this very color. Ben recently took the time to tell us a little more information about his Mirage GT, which can be found below, along with images of the car taken by Kai Dalibor. Year: 2005 Make: Porsche Model: Carrera GT Modifications: Gemballa Mirage GT #23 Aerodynamics The Porsche Carrera GT was the pinnacle of the super sports car genre in its time, and set a Nürburgring lap record for production cars of 7 min 32 sec in 2004. Just 1,270 cars had been made when production ceased in 2006. The MIRAGE GT is sold as a turnkey GEMBALLA model based on the Carrera GT, and featuring unique body, interior, chassis and engine modifications developed by GEMBALLA engineers to push the boundaries of performance and style. Aerodynamics is a crucial element for such a high-velocity automobile, and GEMBALLA conducted extensive wind tunnel testing to ensure improved stability for MIRAGE GT at speed. At the same time, air flow into, through and out of specific areas of the bodywork addressed the greater engine and brake cooling requirements. GEMBALLA continued what Porsche began, with extensive use of carbon-fiber in the bodywork and chassis. Advanced digital measuring equipment was used to dimension the base car allowing for a perfect fit of all new components. The three larger air intakes, which extend over the entire width of the new front bumper, and the recessed door elements take their styling cues from the famous GEMBALLA AVALANCHE. The first generation AVALANCHE made its debut in the mid-1980s, and was based on the Porsche 911 Turbo, establishing a design and performance of the AVALANCHE provides the pedigree that continues with the MIRAGE GT. Suspension / Brakes Innovative suspension technology with a wide range of adjustability to cover road and track use lays the groundwork for the MIRAGE GT’s safe deployment of its additional engine power output. This uprated suspension uses race-style coil-over units with spring seat height adjustment, and independent adjustment for the bounce and rebound settings of its gas-filled dampers. A practical feature incorporate into the suspension is driver controlled electro-hydraulic height adjustment for both axles. This works at the touch of a button, raising the car by 45mm when you need to clear a speed bump, driveway ramp or uneven city streets. The car returns to its normal ride height either when you push the button again, or automatically upon reaching 80 km/h. This convenience allowed GEMBALLA engineers to design the aggressive front spoiler for downforce while affording convenient drivability for the owner. The lightweight concept of the body and chassis continues with the exclusive high-tech forged alloy wheels, utilizing the OE motorsport style centre-lock wheel bolt system that allows quick wheel changes on the racetrack. The five open spokes of the GEMBALLA wheels also help to enhance cooling airflow to the internally ventilated ceramic composite brake discs, ensuring enhanced resistance to brake fade on track. Engine / Exhaust System The Formula One inspired 5.7-litre V10 motor is a rare thoroughbred in terms of performance characteristics and soundtrack. Using a bespoke ram air intake system, freer flowing stainless steel exhaust and remapped ECU, GEMBALLA’s engineers have increased its output from 612 to 670 hp, with peak torque up from 590 to 630 Nm. The purpose-built stainless steel exhaust system whose two tailpipes branch into four outlets machined from billet alloy, give the car an even more purposeful looking business end. The system also turns up the wick on the uprated motor’s soundtrack. The V10’s scream is now even more spine tingling as the GEMBALLA MIRAGE GT blasts to 100km/h in just 3.7 seconds, and on to its 335km/h Vmax. The original ceramic race clutch is tricky to use, especially in city conditions. The GEMBALLA replacement features special pads developed to improve the metering of clutch pedal pressure, thus ensuring a smooth and judder-free engagement in stop-go traffic. The MIRAGE GT takes the original Carrera GT concept to the next level, further enhancing its gravitas in the supercar world. Interior A GEMBALLA MIRAGE GT makes a statement that is further underlined by a matching bespoke interior. When it comes to a personal choice of color and trim materials, the sky is the limit at GEMBALLA. High-quality leather and fine fabrics - plain or patterned - add to the feeling of unbridled luxury, and even the smallest switches and panels can be covered in fine leather or Alcantara. Trim panels in aluminum, stainless steel or carbon fiber can all be handcrafted to complete a unique interior portrait. The experience and attention to detail of GEMBALLA’s master craftsmen and upholsterers guarantees a perfect result that will surprise and delight the owner. This is automotive haute couture at its finest. GEMBALLA’s bespoke program also accommodates audiophiles and fans of technology. To bring the infotainment system up to date, GEMBALLA redesigned the center console for the MIRAGE GT interior. The new carbon-fiber console contains the GEMBALLA Multimedia unit with Data Control System. You can call up a variety of functions on the widescreen display, ranging from satellite-navigation maps to performance gauges indicating the cars instantaneous acceleration, lateral-acceleration and deceleration values. MIRAGE #23 was commissioned by a very special US client, with very special requirements. This client first decided that he wanted a MIRAGE GT in 2009, and in between other automotive projects and acquisitions he developed the concept for the exact specifications of his dream GEMBALLA. As evidence of his detailed requests, the MIRAGE GT#23 has the greatest application of carbon fiber components of any MIRAGE GT built. The client commissioned one-off interior trim in carbon fiber never previously produced, and even directed GEMBALLA to create bespoke carbon fiber covers for the engine intake plenum. There was no detail too fine for the client to specify, or for GEMBALLA to deliver. GEMBALLA was well up to the challenge of meeting this client’s expectations, as for over 30 years the company has specialized in automotive haute couture- delivering exactly what a customer envisions to exacting standards of engineering and craftsmanship. Working with representatives from the New York office of GEMBALLA North America, the client set out every detail of his MIRAGE GT’s interior and exterior design. Once the specifications were set, the 2005 Carrera GT (Seal Grey Metallic, grey leather interior) was shipped from the US to GEMBALLA’s headquarters in Leonberg, Germany to undergo a four month transformation. The vehicle was disassembled to its core chassis, inspected and brought up to date. Over the course of its stay in Germany the car was painted and reassembled by GEMBALLA’s technicians with the new MIRAGE GT components. The result was a special MIRAGE GT in Cobalt Blue with yellow accents and an interior covered almost exclusively in carbon fiber and Alcantara with yellow stitching. Being one of only 25 that will ever be produced, MIRAGE #23 is already in exclusive company, but this example took a further step into the realm of unique automotive art. Why did you buy this car? To build the Mirage that I didn't have the chance to accomplish in 2009 when I had my first CGT. I actually bought my SLR and my first CGT, an '04 Guards Red car, on the same day in the summer of '09, sight unseen, never been in nor driven the car before. Shortly after delivery, I realized and admitted to myself that not only was the car itself a little bit too much car for me at the time, but that I had no idea of the magnitude of the build a Mirage conversion actually entitles or the commitment it requires. When did you know you had to have this car? My father told me this was one of the few special cars that he thought about buying, but never did, when I was younger in the early 2000's the car was first being introduced. Especially with the evolution of the new generation of hypercars, this makes the car not only Porsche's last true analog supercar - it was fundamentally basic at the time - but also so ahead of its time. It is also the only one of the 3 supercars out of the 2000s, the others being the Enzo, SLR and CGT, that has a 6 speed proper manual gearbox. How involved were you in the design process? Extremely. This is probably my favorite part of the buying experience of a car, the spec and design process. I am extremely particular, down to every nuts and bolts detail. Nothing on any one of my cars both in and out was not carefully thought about. I always have a very clear vision of how I want my cars to look, I knew exactly what my Gemballa Mirage would look like before I even got my first CGT in 2009. 5 years later, it's a dream come true. What is something about this car only the owner would know? There is a hidden compartment in the door for storage, and the car also has a 6-disc CD changer and navi. How often is this car driven? The car will be taken out at least once a month, it is not good for CGTs to sit. Spark plugs and many other internal components will go bad from sitting long period of time without being driven, which requires an engine out procedure to address the issues. What are the pros and cons? Pros: looks like something from another planet. Cons: the clutch is not for every supercar owner. If you could take anyone for a ride in this car, who would it be? The 3 men at Gemballa that were directly in charge of building the car from start to finish. Do you plan on bringing this car to any events? Yes, Pebble Beach, SEMA and more. What will be your next automotive purchase? Probably a few older Porsches, everything that has become of interest to me are all older cars now, and the ones that I find myself drawn to are also older and older. Gallery See More Porsche News

Aftermarket

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe