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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 Charles Bradley – October 09, 2024

A Car Sale With An Artistic Twist: Ferrari 550 Race Car P...

How do you make your car stand out from the crowd to ensure maximum exposure while it’s up for auction? Sotheby's Motorsport not only took a car to Velocity Invitational, the three-day motorsports and lifestyle event at Sonoma Raceway, but commissioned renowned motorsport artist Samantha Zimmermann to create a bespoke illustration, painted live at the racetrack. The painting of the bright green 1997 Ferrari 550 GTS Race Car, which is now live on Sotheby's Motorsport, will be included in the sale and can be found here. Zimmermann says the surroundings of the famed Californian racetrack, situated in the heart of wine country, inspired her creation with some of the most amazing historic and vintage racing cars together for a three-day race meeting that carried fierce action on the circuit but a uniquely laid-back and enjoyable festival-like vibe off the track. “Velocity had such an electric atmosphere,” she said. “The Sotheby's Motorsport booth was right at track entry, and you're really able to be immersed in the movement of each car which is such a special experience! Most of these types of cars live in a museum, it's a real honor to see them continue to inspire future generations. “This particular 550 GTS spoke volumes and really fit into the theme of the event well. The goal was to capture the spirit of the car in action on the track, and I think I was able to accomplish that. In a way, this piece now has its own history to go along with the 550 as it was brought to life at Sonoma Raceway. “I was doing my own race alongside all of these amazing teams trying to get this painting 90-95% completed over the course of 3 days. Velocity was fast and fun, and the 550 certainly keeps to its namesake of the Prancing Horse.” Eligible for IMSA Historic Sportscar Racing, this Ferrari 550 GTS/GT1 features a 5.5-liter, 48-valve V12 engine producing 478hp and 419lb-ft of torque, and arrives ready for Historic Sebring, Daytona, American Le Mans (ALMS) Classic Series, and more. This example, chassis number 107301, was built by ENRO Competition of Italy in 2016, and the current bid at the time of writing was $111,000. View Listing

By Chris Peterson – August 28, 2024

Sotheby's Motorsport Presents: The 2024 Porsche 911 S/T –...

At Sothebysmotorsport.com, we are honored to introduce the very first 2024 Porsche 911 S/T to the market—an automotive masterpiece that pays homage to Porsche's rich racing legacy. This exceptional vehicle is one of only 1,963 units to be crafted, a nod to the year 1963 when the iconic 911 was first introduced. The 911 S/T is a modern tribute to the legendary early 1970s Porsche race cars, capturing the essence of those incredible machines while incorporating the pinnacle of modern engineering into what is likely to be one of the last manual gearbox Porsche’s to be built. The 2024 Porsche 911 S/T is not just a kick-ass sports car: it's an instant classic. Porsche engineers have meticulously developed it in the spirit of its forebears, utilizing lightweight panels wherever possible to achieve a weight of 3056 lbs, making it the lightest 992 generation 911. Under the hood lies the most powerful engine configuration available, allowing the 911 S/T to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the fastest GT3 RS you can buy. Unlike its more aggressive siblings, this model features a refined interior that blends luxury with sportiness, providing the ultimate driving experience for those who appreciate both speed and comfort. While its exterior design is more subdued than the GT3 RS, it retains the timeless elegance and unmistakable presence that defines the Porsche 911 lineage. As the first 911 S/T to be offered for sale, this vehicle represents a rare and valuable opportunity for discerning collectors and Porsche enthusiasts alike. Sothebysmotorsport.com is proud to present this extraordinary car, a true testament to Porsche's enduring legacy of innovation and excellence. View Auction Listing

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 21, 2024

Check Out The Most Expensive Cars Sold At Monterey Car We...

See what collector cars took the top spots at Monterey this year! While car collectors and enthusiasts travel to Northern California from all corners of the world to experience Monterey Car Week and all the industry world premiers, most of the action takes place on the auction block, where record sales are achieved year after year. As the collector car market continues to skyrocket in popularity amongst those willing to pay a premium to preserve the pioneering years of motoring, auction specialists like RM Sotheby's, Mecum Auctions, Broad Arrow Auctions, Gooding & Company, and Bonham's are doing their part by presenting some of the most coveted examples throughout the week. Monterey Car Week 2024 proved to be yet another huge hit with massive seven and eight-figure sales. Whether it be a $17 million Ferrari from RM Sotheby's or an all-original $7.865 million Ford GT40, the list of most expensive cars sold at auction during Monterey Car Week featured a small taste of everything. And while diversity shined through with museum-grade examples from manufacturers like Alfa Romeo and Porsche, Ferrari led the charge with seven spots in our Top 10 list. Notably, RM Sotheby's even secured a new world record sale with a 1995 Ferrari F50 that fetched an astronomical price of $5,505,000. To catch up on all the auction action from the automotive world's biggest stage, check out duPont REGISTRY list of the most expensive cars sold at Monterey Car Week by scrolling below. 10. 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Tour de France Berlinetta Gooding & Company $5,200,000 Gooding & Company 9. 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4/NART Alloy by Scaglietti RM Sotheby's $5,285,000 Trevor Thompson ©2024 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's 8. 1955 Ferrari 857 Sport Spider Gooding & Company $5,350,000 Gooding & Company 7. 1995 Ferrari F50 RM Sotheby's $5,505,000 (New World Record) Nathan Deremer ©2024 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's 6. 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider by Scaglietti RM Sotheby's $5,615,000 Darin Schnabel ©2024 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's 5. 1997 Porsche 911 GT1 RENNVERSION Broad Arrow Auctions $7,045,000 Broad Arrow Auctions 4. 1969 Ford GT40 Lightweight Mecum Auctions $7,865,000 Mecum Auctions 3. 1955 Ferrari 410 Sport Spider by Scaglietti RM Sotheby's $12,985,000 Theodore W. Pieper ©2024 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's 2. 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider Gooding & Company $14,030,000 Gooding & Company 1. 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider by Scaglietti RM Sotheby's $17,055,000 Remi Dargegen ©2024 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 20, 2024

1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California By Scaglietti Sells Fo...

Meet the classic Ferrari that fetched seven-figures at Monterey Car Week! While the automotive world is accustomed to modern Ferrari supercars and hypercars like the Daytona SP3, LaFerrari, SF90 Stradale, and Purosangue, it's important to recognize and honor the early pioneering models that shaped the brand into what it has become today. During this year's Monterey Car Week, the auction professionals at RM Sotheby's honed in on that belief with 204 lots that featured some of the most coveted collections of classic Ferraris. And even alongside multiple Italian prancing horses that brought massive six and seven-figure price tags, RM Sotheby's was able to outshine itself with a very special 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California by Scaglietti that sold for a whopping $17,055,000. Of the only 56 SWB Califonia Spiders ever produced, this example (Chassis 1795 GT) stands out as the very first to leave Ferrari's Maranello facility. This particular model features a competition-specification Tipo 168 engine, referred to as "Motore competizione," along with distinctive characteristics like covered headlights and a factory removable hardtop. Originally finished in Grigio with a red leather interior, it was prominently displayed at the 1960 Geneva Motor Show before being delivered to its first owner, John Gordon Bennett, a respected British-born racing driver. The car's journey includes ownership by Ferrari racer Bob Grossman and appearances at significant events like the Le Mans Classic and West Coast Concours, highlighting its importance as an automotive icon. Over its lifetime, the 1795 GT has been carefully maintained by just five owners, with three in the last 60 years, preserving its original specifications. This Ferrari retains its original engine, gearbox, and drivetrain, as confirmed by its Ferrari Classiche Red Book certification, which adds to its significance. Its long-lasting appeal lies in its blend of historical importance, engineering excellence, and a well-documented history, making it a noteworthy example of the 250 GT SWB California Spider for any passionate car collector. View all RM Sotheby's inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All RM Sotheby's Inventory Source: RM Sotheby's

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 20, 2024

Broad Arrow Auctions Reports $71.5M In Sales At Monterey ...

Broad Arrow Auctions' 2024 Monterey event saw $71.5M in sales, highlighted by a $7M Porsche 911 GT1 Rennversion and multiple auction records. Broad Arrow Auctions left a monumental mark at the Monterey Jet Center during its third annual Monterey Auction on August 14 and 15, raking in an impressive $71.5 million in sales. The two-day event displayed a runway-style auction block, adding a memorable and immersive experience for bidders and collectors in attendance. The star of the show was undoubtedly the 1997 Porsche 911 GT1 Rennversion, which brought a whopping $7,045,000 after intense bidding both in the room and over the phone. This year's auction was also a record-setting affair. One of the standout moments was the sale of a 1998 RUF CTR 2, which went for $2,095,000, marking a new auction record for any RUF model. This rare CTR 2, believed to be the only one still with its original owner, was part of a trio of sought-after RUF models that all found new homes at solid prices. The success of these sales stresses the growing interest in modern cars among collectors. Broad Arrow Auctions Monterey 2024 Top Ten Sales 1. Lot 275 1997 Porsche 911 GT1 Rennversion $7,045,000 2. Lot 147 2003 Ferrari Enzo SOLD AFTER AUCTION 3. Lot 243 1957 Maserati 200Si by Fantuzzi SOLD AFTER AUCTION 4. Lot 127 1972 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV $2,700,000 5. Lot 236 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB $2,535,000 6. Lot 121 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder Weissach Package $2,480,000 7. Lot 151 1990 Ferrari F40 $2,425,000 8. Lot 130 1998 RUF CTR 2 $2,095,000 9. Lot 257 1988 Porsche 959 Komfort SOLD AFTER AUCTION 10. Lot 114 1998 RUF Turbo R Limited $1,710,000 Kenneth Ahn, President of Broad Arrow, expressed his appreciation to the attendees and tipped his hat to the auction's strong turnout, with 42% of bidders registering with Broad Arrow for the first time. Ahn also mentioned a shift in the market dynamics, particularly for cars valued over $1 million. While some collectors were hesitant, others were eager to bid, especially on next-generation enthusiast cars. This shift in tastes is something that Broad Arrow has been aligning with, as evidenced by the results of this auction. Broad Arrow Auctions will cap off its 2024 calendar with The Chattanooga Auction on October 12, where around 100 collector cars will be up for grabs during the Chattanooga Motorcar Festival. Given the momentum from Monterey, this upcoming event is one to watch, especially as Broad Arrow continues to shape the future of car collecting with its focus on modern classics. View all Broad Arrow Auctions' inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View Broad Arrow Auctions Inventory " width="680"> Source: Broad Arrow Auctions/Kayden Nelson © 2024 Courtesy of Broad Arrow Auctions

By Tyler Rampersaud – August 01, 2024

Ultra-Rare Avant-Garde 1988 ItalDesign Aztec Listed For A...

The ‘80s were an iconic period in futuristic automotive design, with avant-garde shapes and bold silhouettes that are still some of the most recognizable and celebrated today. Much of those iconic designs are courtesy of ItalDesign, with its unforgettable “wedge-shaped” vehicles being paraded on Concours lawns today. At this year’s Monterey Car Week, the most anticipated event on the automotive calendar, Broad Arrow Auctions will sell the iconic ItalDesign Aztec at auction, allowing collectors to capture a legendary moment in automotive history. View Listing The Aztec was part of a trio of cars created to celebrate ItalDesign’s 20th anniversary at the 1988 Turin Motor Show: the Asgard, Aspid, and Aztec. The Aztec turned heads with its barchetta silhouette and dual, open cockpit. The car is powered by a 250-horsepower Audi-derived turbocharged 5-cylinder engine, with power sent through a four-wheel drive system derived from the Lancia Delta. While the ItalDesign Aztec was originally envisioned as a concept, the car was produced with 50 units planned, but under 25 produced. The example that will be sold for auction by Broad Arrow is chassis number 12. It has been displayed in the Shanghai Automotive Museum and was part of the famous Blackhawk Collection. A rare, avant-garde design masterpiece with an iconic legacy, the 1988 ItalDesign Aztec for auction from Broad Arrow Auctions is an incredible opportunity to own a collector-grade gem with unequivocal historical value.

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 28, 2024

Mecum's 37th Spring Classic Auction Rakes in Over $108 Mi...

Dana Mecum's 37th Original Spring Classic Auction, which featured standout vehicles and celebrity appearances, saw more than $108 million in sales over nine days. Dana Mecum's 37th Original Spring Classic event concluded with remarkable success, achieving over $108 million in sales across nine days of auction action from May 10th to 18th. The Indianapolis-based event featured a total of 2,877 lots sold, marking the fourth consecutive year of surpassing the $100 million mark. The annual anniversary auction consistently draws large crowds and strong sales, with this year proving no different. The auction showcased a wide array of collector cars, from classic muscle cars and '50s favorites to high-end Ferraris and exotics. Notable sales included a 1966 Shelby 427 Cobra Roadster, which sold for $2.145 million, making it the top sale of the event. Other high-line highlights included a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle LS6 Convertible at $660,000, a 1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback at $495,000, a 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback Eleanor tribute at $456,500, and a 2005 Ford GT that fetched $423,500. The event also featured special attendees like Roger Penske and Rick Mears from Team Penske, who auctioned 17 Indy pace cars at no reserve. Sports analyst and former NFL punter Pat McAfee was a highlight, purchasing several cars, including a 2002 Cadillac Escalade, during a live stream on his YouTube show. Indianapolis Colts players Tyquan Lewis, Grover Stewart, and Kendell Brooks made appearances, with Lewis sharing his plans to build and sell a C10 at next year's Spring Classic. The excitement continued with the sale of two Tesla Cybertrucks, fetching $134,750 and $126,500, demonstrating Mecum's diverse market reach. The 2024 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop was a standout sale. Built to replicate GM's 50 millionth car, complete with 24K gold plating, it sold for $434,500. For more detailed results of the Indy 2024 auction or information on upcoming events, visit Mecum.com. Source: Mecum Auctions

By Edward Jones – May 07, 2024

SOMO Auctioning Off Carrera White 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RS...

This 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0, soon to be auctioned by SOMO, is one of the rarest road-going 911s of all time and represents a pinnacle of Porsche’s engineering excellence. It is the ultimate iteration of the 997-generation 911 lineup, drawing directly from Porsche’s rich GT racing heritage. Crafted largely by hand, only 600 examples of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0 were sold worldwide, making it one of the most revered and exclusive models to emerge from the Zuffenhausen factory. Its 4.0-liter flat-six is the most powerful naturally aspirated engine Porsche had ever installed in a road-going 911 at the time of the model’s release. This engine delivers 500 horsepower and produces 339 lb-ft of torque, featuring a high-tech array of components, including titanium connecting rods and forged pistons. Contrary to the earlier text, the top engine speed is an exhilarating 8,500 rpm—not 9,000—and it uses a six-cylinder layout typical of the 911, not a "boxer-four" as previously mentioned. This breathtaking redline underscores its lineage from the legendary, Porsche-defining Mezger-designed engine, the last of its kind to be equipped in a Porsche. With a 0-to-60 mph acceleration time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 193 mph, this car offers an exhilarating driving experience comparable to that of a racing car. The GT3 RS 4.0 also melds raw power with sophisticated mechanics. Its aerodynamic profile and lightweight structure are exemplary, employing Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) extensively throughout the bodywork. The front splitter, rear wing, and side skirts are expertly designed to generate significant downforce, enhancing stability and in-corner grip at high speeds. Its race-bred character is further amplified by a finely tuned suspension system. The wheels—20-inch in the front and 21-inch in the rear—are made of forged aluminum and are equipped with lightweight, high-performance racing compound tires. Presented here is a spectacularly pristine example of the 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0, meticulously maintained by its original owner in a temperature-controlled environment with just 920 miles on the odometer. Chassis number 005 is one of the earliest production models still held in private ownership, which only adds to its rarity and desirability. View Auction Listing

By Sponsored Article – May 01, 2024

Giallo Fly 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary Bei...

On May 18, at the Mecum Auction’s Indy 2024, a sports and collector car auction, one vehicle is set to capture everyone’s attention: a 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary edition. Known for its exaggerated contours and aggressive design, this Countach isn’t just any model. Painted in Giallo Fly, a vivid yellow that accentuates its flamboyant angles, it is one of only six in this color, making it highly coveted among collectors. This Lamborghini Countach is not only a collector's dream for its design but also boasts impressive mechanical credentials. It features the rare carbureted setup with six downdraft Weber carburetors that enhance engine response and add a raw, mechanical feel to the driving experience. At the core of this supercar is a 5.2-liter quad-cam V12 engine. Before being auctioned, the car received an extensive 'engine out' service in December 2023 to ensure it was not just visually stunning but also mechanically sound. Complete with its detailed service history, this Countach is a well-maintained marvel. The 25th Anniversary model is a refined version of the iconic Lamborghini 5000, featuring improved handling and a contemporary interior that offers superior ride quality without compromising the sports feel Lamborghini enthusiasts cherish. With its rare color scheme, carbureted engine, and meticulous upkeep, this Countach is expected to be a highlight at next month’s Mecum Auction in Indianapolis, attracting enthusiasts and collectors alike. It represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history, celebrated not only for its performance and design but also for its enduring allure and significance in the sports car legacy. This vehicle will be featured at the Mecum Auctions event in Indianapolis known as Dana Mecum’s Original Spring Classic. The auction will showcase more than 3,000 cars and 1,000 Road Art items and is scheduled to take place from May 10 to 18, 2024, at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. To explore more cars and participate in on-site, telephone or online bidding, visit https://www.mecum.com/auctions/indy-2024/. View Listing For More Info

2005LamborghiniMurcielagoRoadster(LotS219)at$209,000

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 16, 2024

Mecum Houston 2024 Collector Car Auction Achieves $29.4 M...

Mecum Auction's most recent event in Houston was nothing short of spectacular, with the buzz of the event mirroring the Texas mantra that everything’s bigger there. From April 4-6, the NRG Center was the place to be for car enthusiasts, with over a thousand vehicles up for grabs. Of those, 730 cars sold, pushing total sales to a hefty $29.4 million. The lineup was diverse, but the big, bold spirit of modern muscle and a splash of vintage and modern sports cars stole the show. Leading the pack was a collector-grade 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster that went for $357,500. Not far behind, one of the five 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170s fetched impressive bids, each in pristine condition and sporting low mileage. The top collector car sales at the Houston 2024 auction included: 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster (Lot S119.1) at $357,500 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 (Lot S323) at $242,000 2014 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Replica (Lot S211) at $220,000 2005 Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster (Lot S219) at $209,000 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 (Lot S66) at $198,000 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 (Lot S108) at $198,000 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 (Lot S142) at $192,500 1960 Chevrolet Corvette Custom Convertible (Lot S157) at $181,500 1989 Porsche 930 Turbo Slantnose (Lot S131.1) at $176,000 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 (Lot S130) at $167,750 It wasn’t all about modern muscle though. Classics had their moment too, with a 2005 Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster and a custom 1960 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible turning heads and opening wallets. The Corvette brought $181,500, while an ultra-rare 1989 Porsche 930 Turbo Slantnose notched up $176,000. From unique personal collections, a 1983 Duesenberg II Royalton Dual Cowl Phaeton, a gem from the Bob Cather Classics Collection, nearly made the top list with a solid sale at $154,000. Also, additional sales included a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle LS6 and a 1972 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Cheyenne from the Plendl Brothers Bowtie Classics collection, coming in at $100,100 and $88,000. Source: Mecum Auctions

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