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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 Jordan Aquistapace – January 25, 2024

Prestige Imports x Pagani of Miami Deliver The First Imol...

The first Pagani Imola Roadster touches down in sunny South Florida. In the world of hypercars, Pagani Automobili remains a leader, consistently impressing the automotive world with innovations like the Imola Roadster. The marque's exclusive open-top hypercar is a distinct blend of mechanical and aerodynamic expertise, offering an exhilarating driving experience unlike any other vehicle on the planet. With only eight examples homologated for Pagani's most celebrated clientele, Prestige Imports x Pagani Miami is pleased to deliver the very first Pagani Imola Roadster from its dealership in sunny South Florida. The road-legal race car derives its sophisticated body lines from the track-only Huayra R, using its 850 horsepower V12 engine and 2,776.67lb design as the winning recipe for the ultimate hypercar. The first Pagani Imola Roadster features a striking Azzuro Sardegna BMF factory finish, highlighting its aero-focused elements with luxurious gold accents. With the ability to transform itself into an open-cabin hypercar, the Imola Roadster wraps up Pagani’s passion, elegance, and cutting-edge technology, into a piece of rolling art. With the inaugural Pagani Imola Roadster now on the road, we can't wait to see what the other seven jaw-dropping specs. View all Prestige Imports x Pagani of Miami inventory currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View Prestige Imports x Pagani of Miami Inventory Source: Prestige Imports/Pagani Automobili (Media)

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By Jordan Aquistapace – January 25, 2024

The Collection Invites Clients To A Private McLaren Artur...

A day filled with thrilling McLaren track sessions. While supercar manufacturers are engineering new ways to make exotic cars more enjoyable to driving on a daily basis, its still important experience the performance capabilities in a safe and professional environment. This ensures customers are able to experience the true potentional of these race-inspired supercars for the road, gaining a whole new sense of respect for speed, aero, and braking. As McLaren rolls out a new chapter of hybrid performance with its electrified Artura, the passionate team of professionals at The Collection McLaren invited a select group of clients to a private track event to experience it first hand. The thrilling track day took place at The Concours Club in Miami, where the pristine 2+ mile circuit awaited some serious speed and cornering from a fleet of McLaren Arturas. Hitting the track, guests got a real taste of what this machine can do beyond the constraints of the open road. It's all about that feather-light build, the electrifying jolt of power, and the kind of agility that makes every turn a thrill. Participants dove into several exciting track sessions, guided by the pro McLaren Driving Instructors. These experts dished out insider tips and tricks, showing drivers how to really push the Artura to its limits and squeeze every ounce of performance out of this stunning ride. Although the day was filled with smiles and memories, the hands-on approach proves to be the best way to learn more about the next generation of McLaren supercars. View all The Collection inventory currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All The Collection Inventory Source: @thecollectionfl Instagram

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 24, 2024

Prestige Imports Set To Welcome Gunther Werks' Project To...

This is your chance to see the exclusive Porsche 911 GW Project Tornado Turbo in person! As the automotive world continues to evolve into an industry full of powerful, modern-day supercars, the collector car market for visceral examples like classic Porsche 911s skyrockets amongst purists in search of the ultimate driving experience. Combining the perfect blend of both worlds into one platform, the team at Gunther Werks achieves this feat with its all-new remastered 993 Porsche 911 Turbo, deemed GW Project Tornado. Prestige Imports x Gunther Werks Miami is proud to welcome the GW Project Tornado 911 Turbo, as well as some other incredible builds, at its upcoming Exotics & Espresso event in sunny South Florida. Already making waves in the Porsche world, Gunther Werks recently displayed its newest four-wheel creation at Das Renn Treffen 2024 in Miami, FL. Showcasing a ground-up restoration that completely transforms the classic 911 into a modern marvel fit with state-of-the-art design, technology, and performance, Gunther Werks continues to preserve that natural look of the 911 with ultra-lightweight components. Limited to only 75 chassis, Gunther Werks Turbo program harnesses up to 700 horsepower through a Rothsport Racing built 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine that revs to 7500rpm. The Porsche 911 Remastered by Gunther Werks will be on display at Prestige Imports' Exotics & Espresso car show on Feburuary 3rd from 10 AM to 1 PM EST. If you're a car fanatic looking to catch a glimpse of art and performance on wheels, make sure to mark your calendar to see Porsche 911 remastered by Gunther Werks at Exotics & Espresso. View all Prestige Imports inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Prestige Imports Inventory Source: Prestige Imports

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 24, 2024

O'Gara Coach Announces Itself As An Official U.S. McMurtr...

Collectors can now place an order for the compact yet mighty Spéirling FAN hypercar. McMurtry Automotive has certainly revved up the hypercar world since its record-setting sprint at the Goodwood Festival of Speed Hill Climb back in 2022. Commanding attention with its compact yet mighty Spéirling hypercar, the innovative company turned heads by proving that when it comes to sheer speed and agility, size isn't everything. After the Spéirling recently made its inaugural debut on U.S. soil at the Petersen Museum, the team at O'Gara Coach is proud to announce itself as the official US West Coast Dealer Partner, part of the O’Gara Motorsport portfolio. Clients will be pleased to hear that you can now order a McMurtry Spéirling PURE fan car through O’Gara, unlocking a truly unique driving experience unlike any other track car. To commemorate the milestone occassion, the Goodwood record-setting Spéirling visited O'Gara Motorsport at The Thermal Club last weekend for members to learn more about McMurtry Automotive and its lightning-fast hypercar. The McMurtry Spéirling redefines electric car performance with its compact yet mighty powertrain, delivering an astonishing 1,000 horsepower and achieving 0-60 mph in under 1.5 seconds, an accomplishment that commends engineering brilliance. View all O'Gara Coach inventory currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All O'Gara Coach Inventory View this post on Instagram A post shared by McMurtry Automotive (@mcmurtryautomotive) Source: @ogaracoach Instagram

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 09, 2024

CURATED Shows Off Its RARE 6-Speed Lamborghini Murcielago...

When it comes to Lamborghini's most historic and influential supercars, the Murcielago stands out as a fan favorite amongst collectors, enthusiasts, and the rest of the automotive world. The Italian manufacturer somehow engineered the perfect recipe for the ultimate 2000s supercar, combining state-of-the-art design with a massive V12 engine and the option of a six-speed manual transmission. Recognized as a true collector's example, manual Lamborghini Murcielago values have skyrocketed into the six figures. The team at CURATED of Miami is pleased to showcase an ultra-rare 2008 Lamborghini Murcielago LP-640 Roadster as the newest addition to their extensive inventory of exclusive supercars. This Lamborghini LP640 Roadster is a true rarity, with only 16 ever produced globally and just 10 allocated for the US market. This particular chassis (#LA03015) is a one-of-one example configured in a sleek, factory Grigio Antares finish. The Murcielago features a striking factory sportivo two-tone interior in Rosso Centaurus/Nero, enriched by luxurious Q-Citura quilted stitching and red contrast stitching throughout the cabin. Custom-ordered by its initial owner, this LP640 showcases a list of premium options including glossy black Hermera wheels, an interior carbon fiber package, high-performance carbon ceramic brakes, carbon engine bracing, an advanced navigation system, and a refined Alcantara steering wheel. This 2008 model comes equipped with Lamborghini's 6.5L naturally-aspirated V12, paired with its highly-desirable 6-speed manual transmission. Showcasing a remarkably low mileage of just 6,300 miles, it's considered the most pristine LP640 Manual remaining in the USA. This example represents the final chapter in the era of open-air, manual V12 Lamborghinis, making it one of the most sought-after post-2000 supercars for collectors. View all CURATED inventory currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All CURATED Inventory Source: CURATED Instagram

By duPont REGISTRY – January 04, 2024

Dr. Dre Takes Delivery Of His New Becker Automotive Desig...

Riding in style with his new luxurious mobile office, Dr. Dre joins the Becker Automotive Design family. Becker Automotive Design is takes executive travel to the next level with their bespoke Cadillac Escalade ESV. The once-factory SUV is now a top-tier mobile office that brings together the best of luxury and practicality. Perfect for professionals who are always on the go, the custom, full-size GM SUV offers a mix of top-notch safety, sleek elegance, and functionality that's hard to beat. The team at Becker Automotive Design is proud to welcome the newest member of its community of owners, world-renowned American music producer, rapper, and entrepreneur Dr. Dre. Kicking off the Becker Design's new year with another exceptional delivery, Dr. Dre took delivery of the new Becker Cadillac Escalade ESV mobile office executive limousine at his lavish California mansion. Finished in Cadillac's factory gloss black paint, the upgraded Escalade ESV remains incognito until passengers are welcomed inside its spacious and comfortable cabin. The interior is a haven of luxury, showcasing a full infotainment suite with cutting-edge internet access, allowing Dr. Dre the ability to work, stay informed, and be entertained while traveling. Discover all of Becker Automotive Design’s inventory currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Becker Automotive Design Inventory Source: Becker Automotive Design (@beckerautomotive)

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 02, 2024

Cauley Ferrari of Detroit Celebrates Its 25 Years As Moto...

While supercar manufacturers continue to their mark on the automotive world, the authorized dealerships are responsible for providing the top tier sales and service experience that comes along with purchasing a dream car. Selling dreams since its start, the team of prancing horse professionals at Cauley Ferrari of Detroit is proud to be celebrating its 25th Anniversary as a leader in the U.S. market. Established in December 1998, Cauley Ferrari opened its doors in West Bloomfield, MI, unveiling a 14,000 sq. ft. facility inspired by Ferrari's Maranello headquarters. Fast forward to May 2018, after an extensive renovation, Cauley Ferrari, now Cauley Ferrari of Detroit, expanded to a remarkable 53,000 square feet. This expansion embodies the essence of innovation, housing New & Pre-Owned Sales, Service, Genuine Parts, Classiche Restoration, Body Shop, & Detailing. As one of only eight Authorized Ferrari Body Shops in North America, Cauley Ferrari of Detroit stands out as a staple of excellence in the automotive world. This dealership is not just about selling cars; it’s about a passion for the Ferrari brand and the unique experience each client receives. In 2003, the dealership was graced by Sergio Pininfarina, a renowned Ferrari designer, marking a historic moment with the special delivery of Ferrari Enzo supercars. The legacy of founder Jeffrey V. Cauley continues as the dealership excels in offering a selection of Ferrari Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicles. Each car is meticulously inspected and perfected, ensuring they meet the high standards of the brand. The dealership's location in the Motor City and its proximity to Ferrari Chairman Sergio Marchionne's home base in Metro Detroit further cement its status in the luxury automotive sector. Cauley Ferrari of Detroit is a destination for those who appreciate the finest in automotive craftsmanship and design. The team invites you to experience the excellence and passion that drive this iconic brand, right in the heart of Motor City. View all Cauley Ferrari of Detroit inventory currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Cauley Ferrari of Detroit Inventory 2011 Ferrari 599 GTO View Price And Listing 2020 Ferrari 488 Pista Piloti View Price And Listing 2022 Ferrari SF90 Stradale View Price And Listing 2023 Ferrari 296 GTB View Price And Listing 2011 Ferrari 599 60 F1 Alonso Final Edition View Price And Listing 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale View Price And Listing 2009 Ferrari F430 Scuderia View Price And Listing 2018 Ferrari GTC4Lusso View Price And Listing 2007 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti View Price And Listing 1981 Ferrari 308 GTSi View Price And Listing

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 02, 2024

Prestige Imports x Lamborghini Miami Welcome Romain Grosj...

Even having been behind the wheel of F1 cars, Romain was taken back by the Lamborghini Essenza SCV12. As a professional racing driver who has already dominated in both Formula 1 and the NTT Indy Car Series, impressing Romain Grosjean with supercars and hypercars proves to be a tough task in itself. The team of automotive professionals at Prestige Imports x Lamborghini Miami is proud to welcome Romain to Miami to show off some of the most exclusive and expensive cars at its dealership in sunny South Florida. Kicking off the tour with performance and practicality, the all-new 2024 Lamborghini Urus Performante caught Grosjean's attention with its vibrant green finish and extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber. The Urus Performante harnesses Lamborghini's track-inspired DNA while showcasing the ability to fit five comfortably in a daily drivable super SUV platform. Equipped with a 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8, the new Lamborghini Urus Performante generates an impressive 657 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque to its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. Pulling out the real gems to impress Romain Grosjean, Prestige Imports x Lamborghini Miami gave the French and Swiss racing driver an up-close look at the ultra-exclusive Lamborghini Essenza SCV12. The Essenza SCV12 flies under the radar as a track-only, limited-production supercar, engineered in collaboration with Lamborghini's Squadra Corse race division. The Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 was originally offered to top clients for $3.5 million, restricted to only 40 examples worldwide. Its powerplant is derived from the manufacturer's famous 6.5L naturally-aspirated V12 that produces a mindblowing 820 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. With a stripped interior that solely focuses on-track performance, the Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 proves to be a cabin that Romain Grosjean is more than familiar with. Now that Prestige Imports has teased Romain with some of its best inventory, we are sure that you'll see Romain cruising South Beach in the near future. View all Prestige Imports x Lamborghini Miami inventory currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Prestige Imports Inventory Source: Prestige Imports Instagram

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 26, 2023

Prancing Horse of Nashville Transforms into a Wish Factor...

Under the dazzling lights of the Prancing Horse of Nashville showroom, a symphony of generosity and compassion played out as part of a night to truly remember. The occasion? The Ferrari Fondi i Desideri Granting Wishes Event, a collaboration between the iconic Ferrari dealership and Nashville K-9, aimed at weaving magic for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Dr. Caroline and Ali Hemyari, two pillars of the Nashville community, served as the driving forces behind this exceptional night. Their passion for making a difference was palpable, igniting a spirit of giving that permeated the air. The air thrummed with the promise of dreams coming true, each dollar raised paving the way for a critically ill child's wish to take flight. Elegance and compassion danced in perfect harmony. Gleaming Ferraris, symbols of luxury, became conduits of hope. The showroom, usually a haven for automotive enthusiasts, transformed into a wish factory, where generous hearts fueled the machinery of dreams. The evening unfolded like a well-choreographed ballet of giving. Emcee Megan Alexander, a powerhouse of grace and wit, kept the energy high, while auctioneer Tad Craig coaxed bids that surpassed expectations. The air vibrated with the soulful melodies of Dan Schafer's music, adding an emotional depth to the night's tapestry. But the real stars were the countless individuals who stepped up to be wish-makers. Sponsors like Flat Rock Motor Club, Renasant Bank, RPR Insurance, and Catering and Events by Suzette poured their hearts into the cause. Generous donors, touched by the spirit of the event, dug deep into their pockets, knowing that their contributions would paint smiles onto the faces of children battling unimaginable challenges. The night culminated in a triumphant announcement: over $182,500 raised, translating to countless dreams granted. The roar of the crowd was a chorus of hope, a testament to the transformative power of collective generosity. The Ferrari Fondi i Desideri Granting Wishes Event was more than just a fundraiser. It was a beacon of light, a rallying cry for the city of Nashville to come together and make a difference. It was a reminder that even amidst the hustle and bustle, the human spirit can soar, fueled by the desire to spread joy and hope. As the final notes of Dan Schafer's music faded, a sense of accomplishment lingered in the air. The Prancing Horse of Nashville had become more than just a showroom; it had become a symbol of hope, a testament to the power of dreams, and a reminder that when hearts come together, even the most impossible wishes can come true. View All Prancing Horse of Nashville Inventory Source: Prancing Horse of Nashville

By Tyler Rampersaud – December 21, 2023

Cunningham Automotive Modernizes A Corvette Legend

Meet the American supercar inspired by a Le Mans legend. Briggs Swift Cunningham Jr., better known as Mr. C, is an important part of American automotive and racing history. With his own Cunningham Le Mans race cars and sports cars, as well as his team which campaigned Jaguars at Le Mans for class and overall wins, Cunningham was a respected name in the racing world. In 1960, Cunningham’s Corvette won the GT5.0 class, marking the Corvette’s first International Motorsports win, and he retired from racing in 1966. During his time in racing, Cunningham was credited with pioneering radio communication in race cars, and even invented what we now know as racing stripes. With racing using national colors at this time, Cunningham had to figure out a new way to display America’s white and blue colors because the body of the new cars at the time covered the frame which originally displayed the blue portion of the livery. Eventually, after being dissatisfied with other designs, Cunningham finally settled on two blue stripes that ran down the middle of the car and contrasted with the white body, now known as Racing Stripes, which are seen on performance cars of all kinds today as a symbol of motorsport. Carrying on Mr. C’s legacy, his son, Briggs Swift Cunningham III, formed Cunningham Automotive Inc. with Antonio Pierce in 2019, reviving automotive production with the Cunningham name. The first Cunningham Automotive project is a celebration of the 60th anniversary of the 1960 #3 Cunningham Corvette that won its class. Based on the C8 Corvette, the Cunningham Corvette is an amazing celebration of American automotive excellence on the race track and beyond. Not only does it celebrate the motorsport history that the Cunningham name is attached to, but it also celebrates the first mid-engined generation of the Chevrolet Corvette, something that fans of one of the first world-class American performance cars waited for decades since the beginning of the Corvette’s legacy. The modern Cunningham Corvette comes both as a 60th Anniversary Edition, and a Briggs Edition that celebrates the incredible 100 years of Le Mans. Names like Peter Stevens in design, Brian Wiillis in engineering, Lingenfelter Performance Engineering in mechanical upgrades, Alcon for brakes, Michelin for its Pilot 4S tires, and HRE for wheels behind the project, the Cunningham Corvette is a stunning creation and historic homage, with the added bonus of 700 horsepower with a low-profile supercharger, available as an option on the 60th Anniversary car and standard on the Briggs Edition car. While the production of electric sports cars lies in Cunningham Automotive’s future, this special Corvette that celebrates the past is an amazing way to start. View The 2023 Cunningham Automotive Corvette Briggs Edition 100th Anniversary

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