Events

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 Khris Bharath – January 22, 2026

Alfa Romeo and Maserati to Showcase BOTTEGAFUORISERIE at 50th Edition of Rétromobile, Paris

We touched upon BOTTEGAFUORISERIE back in early November last year, a joint creative and customization program that brings Alfa Romeo and Maserati under a single strategic vision. Paris is where the initiative makes its first public appearance, debuting at Ultimate Supercar Garage, a new dedicated space to supercars at the 50th edition of Rétromobile, one of the world's more prestigious classic car shows, being held from January 28 through February 1, 2026, at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. Four made-in-Italy cars will define the presentation, each tied to a specific pillar of the BOTTEGAFUORISERIE project. The Alfa Romeo Nuova 33 Stradale will take center stage. It revives a name tied directly to the glorious Tipo 33 race cars of the 1960s and signals Alfa Romeo’s willingness to invest in a few off-hand-finished modern icons. Next to it, the Giulia Quadrifoglio Luna Rossa. This is the first product of Alfa Romeo’s partnership with Luna Rossa ahead of the 38th America’s Cup. Maserati will also showcase some serious hardware. The MCXtrema is one of 62 track-only cars built without road homologation compromises, sitting alongside a GT2 Stradale, a street-legal evolution that traces its lineage to the Trident badge’s glorious GT racing lineage that goes back decades. <- Gallery -> Physically linking the four cars will be a dedicated lounge, highlighting Bottega’s few off creations, Fuoriserie customization, History grounded in heritage, and Racing driven by innovation. Alongside the modern performance showcase, Alfa Romeo will also use Rétromobile to underline the depth of its historic portfolio through the Alfa Romeo Classiche program. Displayed in Hall 7.2, three landmark historic models, the 1966 Alfa Romeo 1600 Spider “Duetto,” the 1955 Alfa Romeo 750 Competizione, and the 1967 Alfa Romeo 33/2 Periscopica, will appear alongside the current Alfa Romeo Tonale SUV. Shown together in traditional red livery, the cars trace a clear line from the brand’s mid-century racing and design achievements to its current production strategy. Visitors will also be able to engage directly with the Alfa Romeo Classiche Program, part of the Stellantis Heritage initiative, which provides services including Certificates of Origin, Certificates of Authenticity, and restoration and maintenance work carried out in accordance with original factory specifications. For legacy brands such as Alfa Romeo and Maserati with storied histories and motorsport pedigree going back over a century, BOTTEGAFUORISERIE’s showcase at a historic exhibition like Rétromobile is significant. But the action this year extends beyond Paris, because in November 2026, duPont REGISTRY Group will host the inaugural North American edition of Rétromobile in New York at the Javits Center in November 2026. View All Exotics and Supercars For Sale Images: Stellantis

Ferrari Dominates Mecum Kissimmee 2026: $38.5 Million 250 GTO and the Bachman Collection Steal the Show

By Khris Bharath – January 18, 2026

Ferrari Dominates Mecum Kissimmee 2026 With A $38.5 Million 250 GTO and Bachman Collection

We expected plenty of action from Mecum’s Kissimmee 2026 auction, and even with one full day of bidding still to come, the sale has already delivered historic results. Between January 6 and January 17, multiple eight-figure sales were firmly on the board, led by a $38.5 million Ferrari 250 GTO, a result that places it among the most expensive cars sold at auction and positions Kissimmee 2026 as one of the most consequential auctions in Mecum history. Ferrari’s dominance at the top of the leaderboard has been unmistakable. The undisputed headline lot, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO finished in Bianco Speciale, crossed the block at $38.5 million, with the top bid placed by noted Ferrari collector David Lee. We highlighted Chassis 3729GT in October last year, as the only 250 GTO finished in white by Ferrari. With a period competition history that includes drivers such as Graham Hill, Mike Parkes, and Roy Salvadori, the result reinforced the premium placed on originality, provenance, and preservation at the highest level. Beyond the GTO, the Bachman Collection emerged as the dominant force across the remainder of the top ten so far. We highlighted the breadth of this collection in late December, followed by a deep dive into its ultra-low-mileage Ferrari F40s ahead of Kissimmee. The strongest Bachman result came from a 2003 Ferrari Enzo showing just 649 miles, ordered new by the family and customized through the factory, saw fierce bidding, eventually selling for $17.875 million. That was followed closely by a 1995 Ferrari F50 with only 252 miles at $12.21 million, reinforcing demand for Ferrari’s flagship V12 era cars when mileage and provenance align. Modern halo Ferraris continued to post blue-chip numbers. The only Ferrari Enzo finished in Rosso Dino brought $11.11 million, while a 2017 Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta with just 96 miles sold for $11 million. The Bachman Collection also accounted for an $8.525 million Rosso Corsa 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO, a 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari with 157 miles on the clock, as well as the final U.S.-spec LaFerrari produced at $6.71 million, a 458-mile 1992 Ferrari F40 at $6.6 million, and a Giallo-finished 2006 Ferrari FXX at $6.325 million. Ford’s GT40 lineage provided the lone non-Ferrari interruption at the top. A 1966 Ford GT40 MkII factory lightweight, chassis XGT-3 and one of just three produced, sold for $12.375 million, representing one of the most original MkII examples in existence. Another record sale on Friday was a 1-of-1 PTS Porsche 918 Spyder that crossed the block at $6.05 million. As previously mentioned, with one full day of bidding still ahead, Mecum Kissimmee 2026 is not finished writing its story. But even before the final gavel falls, Ferrari’s dominance, led overwhelmingly by the 48-strong Bachman Collection, has already defined this auction. Here are the top 10 results so far: 1. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO (Bianco Speciale)- $38,500,000 2. 2003 Ferrari Enzo (Bachman Collection) - $17,875,000 3. 1966 Ford GT40 MkII Factory Lightweight - $12,375,000 4.1995 Ferrari F50 (Bachman Collection) - $12,210,000 5. 2003 Ferrari Enzo - $11,110,000 6. 2017 Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta (Bachman Collection) - $11,000,000 7. 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO (Bachman Collection) - $8,525,000 8. 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari (Bachman Collection) - $6,710,000 9. 1992 Ferrari F40 (Bachman Collection) - $6,600,000 10. 2006 Ferrari FXX (Bachman Collection) - $6,325,000 View Mecum 2026 Info Images: Mecum Auctions

By Charles Bradley – January 10, 2026

World’s Finest Classics Converge In Paris For Peninsula’s Best Of The Best

In the rarefied world of concours-level automobiles, few honors carry the gravitas of The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award. Reserved exclusively for the most exceptional winners from the world’s leading concours events, the annual accolade is less a competition than a coronation – one that will culminate on January 26, 2026, at The Peninsula Paris, where a single automobile will be named the most exquisite classic motorcar on the planet from 2025. This year’s seven finalists represent an extraordinary cross-section of automotive history, spanning seven decades of design, performance, and craftsmanship. Each has already earned Best of Show honors at globally revered events, from Villa d’Este and Pebble Beach-adjacent The Quail, to Goodwood, Amelia Island, and Hampton Court Palace. Only one, however, will ascend to the pinnacle. “This award is more than a celebration of engineering excellence – it is a tribute to the artistry, heritage, and cultural significance of the automobile,” said The Hon. Sir Michael Kadoorie, chairman of The Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited, and co-founder of The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award. “Each finalist represents a chapter in the story of motoring history, crafted by visionary designers and preserved for future generations.” Appropriately, the ceremony unfolds at The Peninsula Paris, a century- old landmark whose Belle Époque elegance and proximity to the city’s most iconic monuments provide an atmospheric backdrop befitting such mechanical masterpieces. Following the announcement, the winning car will enjoy a public encore, displayed in partnership with Rétromobile from January 28 to February 1, 2026, placing it among the world’s most celebrated historic automobiles once more. A Roll Call of Automotive Royalty <- Gallery -> The 2025 finalists read like a greatest-hits compilation of coach-built excellence and motorsport pedigree. At one end of the spectrum stands the 1926 Rolls-Royce Phantom I “Phantom of Love,” clothed in romantic coachwork by Charles Clark & Son Ltd., fresh from its Best of Show victory at the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace. From pre-WWII Britain to prewar Italy, the 1934 Alfa Romeo Tipo B, factory-bodied and victorious at Villa d’Este, represents motorsport purity distilled into one of the most& influential Grand Prix cars ever built. Germany answers with the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K Spezial Roadster by Sindelfingen, a rolling sculpture crowned Best of Show at Salon Privé, and engineering elegance taken to its apex. Italy responds once more with the 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B by Stabilimenti Farina, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cars ever made, and the top honor recipient at the Amelia Concours d’Élégance. Post-WWII optimism is embodied by the 1951 Bentley Mark VI Cresta II, styled by Facel Metallon, whose Best of Show win at Goodwood’s Cartier Style et Luxe underscores the era’s evolving luxury aesthetic. From Maranello’s golden age comes the 1954 Ferrari 375 MM, bodied by Ghia, and celebrated at the Cavallino Classic, a reminder of Ferrari’s early mastery of both competition and couture. Rounding out the field is the youngest – and perhaps most surprising – contender: the 1996 Ferrari F50 GT by Pininfarina, an uncompromisingly race-bred machine that captured Best of Show at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, and signals the growing recognition of ultra-rare modern classics within elite concours circles. Judged by Icons Selecting a single winner from such a rarified company falls to one of the most distinguished judging panels in the automotive world. The 2025 jury includes Jay Leno, renowned collector and automotive raconteur; Gordon Murray, legendary engineer and designer of the McLaren F1; and Gorden Wagener, Mercedes-Benz’s influential chief design officer. They are joined by automotive architects, former industry leaders, and international royalty – ensuring that the final decision balances historical importance, design purity, and cultural resonance. Launched in 2015 by Sir Michael Kadoorie alongside co-founders William E. “Chip” Connor, Bruce Meyer, and Christian Philippsen, The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award has become the ultimate accolade in the collector-car world. Sponsored annually by The Peninsula Hotels, it celebrates not only immaculate restoration and provenance, but also the enduring legacy of the automobile as rolling art. As Paris prepares to host the final judgment, one truth is already clear: in a field this exceptional, the real triumph lies in preserving – and honoring – the finest chapters of motoring history. View Cars For Sale On duPont REGISTRY

Two futuristic white and red sports cars with sleek, aerodynamic designs are parked side by side against a solid red background, reminiscent of a public debut at Rétromobile Paris 2026 or the legendary Bertone Runabout.

By Khris Bharath – December 28, 2025

Bertone’s New Runabout To Make Its Public Debut at Rétrom...

Italian coachbuilding works best when you refuse to play it safe. Commit to the idea, get the proportions right, and let the design do the talking. That tradition sits at the heart of the new Bertone Runabout, which will make its world debut next month at Rétromobile 2026, in Paris, as the first model in the brand’s Classic Line. Now, if you’ve been following this project closely, we first saw the original concept back in October 2024, followed by more detailed renderings in March this year of what appeared to be a car that looked nearly production-ready. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bertone (@bertone_official) The original Runabout concept, traces back to 1969 and to Nuccio Bertone. This was of course, at the height of the wedge era of the 1960s and early ‘70s. The Runabout was a Gandini-era concept (widely considered the father of the wedge) based on modest mechanicals of the Autobianchi A112. While that car never entered production, it influenced an entire generation of mid-engine sports cars, including the likes of the original Lamborghini Countach, the Lancia Stratos HF, and several others, essentially laying the groundwork for modern-day supercar design for decades to come. The modern-day Runabout continues to follow Bertone’s Zero principle and uses just two defining lines. An L-shaped profile runs from the roll bar to the nose, forming a clear wedge, while a horizontal lower line adds a subtle nautical reference. Pop-up headlights are now integrated into the body rather than perched in rear nacelles like the 1969 concept. Other design highlights include a Coda Tronca tail, round taillights, an industrial-inspired engine cover, an aluminum fuel cap, and a front S duct, all of which are functional elements. Power comes from a mid-mounted, supercharged 3.5-liter V6 with 475 horsepower, paired to a close-ratio six-speed manual. Production will be capped at 25 units, across Riviera-friendly open-top Targa and Barchetta bodystyles. You can see the Bertone Runabout alongside the stunning mid-engine Bertone GB110 Arancio Zero at Rétromobile Paris in January. If you’re a classic and vintage car fan, get ready for the inaugural North American edition Rétromobile, as duPont REGISTRY Group will host the event in New York at the Javits Center in November, 2026. View All Supercars & Exotic Cars For Sale Images: Bertone

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 13, 2025

When One of America’s Best Car Collections Opens Its Door...

Join the fueled festivities to support a good cause! If you’ve spent any time around car people in Florida, you’ve probably heard whispers about the American Muscle Car Museum in Melbourne. It’s one of those places that sounds almost too good to be true, a massive private collection tucked away behind closed doors, only opened a handful of times each year. The museum spans more than 120,000 square feet and houses over 400 vehicles from the personal collection of Mark Pieloch, whose love for all things automotive back more than 40 years. Inside, you’ll find everything from classic American muscle of the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s to modern marvels like a Ford GT, along with plenty of automotive memorabilia that helps tell the bigger story. Neon signs, antique gas pumps, motorcycles, pedal cars, and even vintage bicycles fill out the space and make it feel less like a warehouse and more like a living archive. The museum isn’t open to the public day to day, which is what makes its upcoming Space Coast Toy Drive and Car Show worth making the trip for. For the event, the team is working alongside Vetted Ventures, a company that focuses on private sales and acquisitions across a range of industries. The goal this holiday season is pretty simple: bring people together around cars and do some good for the local community in the process. And there’s no shortage of things to see while you’re there. The collection includes more than 50 Indianapolis 500 pace cars, over 50 Shelby models, and one of the most extensive Yenko collections in the world, with 29 cars representing every make and model ever produced. Add in more than 50 Porsches, including a handful of Porsche-Diesel tractors, and you get an idea of just how diverse the collection really is. The event itself runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is open to the public. Entry is straightforward: bring an unwrapped toy or pay $30 per person, and you’ll receive a wristband for access to the museum. All donations go directly to Candlelighters of Brevard, Space Coast Discovery, and Toys for Tots, helping local families during the holiday season. The car show is open to all makes and models, with gates opening at 9:30 a.m., and the rest of the day is meant to be easygoing. Expect food trucks, a DJ, local vendors, and plenty of time to walk the collection at your own pace. It’s a relaxed way to spend a few hours, surrounded by great cars, while supporting a cause. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Coastal Auto Rally And Show (@coastalautorallyandshow) Sources: American Muscle Car Museum/Vetted Ventures

A large, colorful bird sculpture and Toys for Tots donations in boxes and piles are displayed outside a modern apartment building with palm trees.

By duPont REGISTRY – December 12, 2025

Driving Holiday Joy: Dimmitt Automotive Group’s Toys for ...

This holiday season, the automotive community comes together once again for a cause that goes far beyond the road. On Sunday, December 14, Dimmitt Automotive Group will host its annual Toys for Tots Exotic Car Rally, uniting exotic vehicles, charitable giving, and community spirit across the Tampa Bay area. Now celebrating its 101st year serving Florida’s Gulf Coast, Dimmitt remains a family-owned and operated business spanning four generations, with a long-standing commitment to giving back. This year, that commitment includes the donation of more than 100 bicycles and the collection of thousands of toys that will ultimately benefit children through the Salvation Army. All of Dimmitt’s business units are involved in the effort, bringing together both its Automotive and Powersports divisions in support of the mission. The rally also follows a milestone moment for the group, as Dimmitt was recently awarded a new Bentley Sarasota point, with the Sarasota location completing its Drive Event just one week prior. For those wishing to spectate, as the rally has reached maximum capacity for participants, the event begins at 9:00 a.m. at 3333 Gandy Boulevard in Pinellas Park. A curated procession of high-performance and exotic vehicles will depart for Marine Corps Headquarters in Midtown Tampa, the rally’s final destination. At its core, the event is about helping bring holiday joy to children in need. If you would like to donate directly to Toys for Tots, please click the button below. Visit ToysforTots.org Dimmitt Automotive Group Locations Clearwater25191 US Highway 19 NClearwater, FL St. Petersburg (Pinellas Park)3333 Gandy BoulevardPinellas Park, FL St. Petersburg3255 Gandy BoulevardPinellas Park, FL Wesley Chapel2500 Lajuana BoulevardWesley Chapel, FL Homosassa2431 S. Suncoast BoulevardHomosassa, FL Cycle Springs29703 US Highway 19 NClearwater, FL Sarasota Village Powersports1518 State StreetSarasota, FL

Three men stand before a glass case featuring a 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante at the Rétromobile New York outdoor exhibition, where ticket sales are brisk.

By duPont REGISTRY – December 08, 2025

Rétromobile New York Launches Ticket Sales For November ...

New York, December 8, 2025 — Rétromobile New York, organized in partnership between duPont REGISTRY Group and Comexposium, kicked off the countdown to its inaugural U.S. classic-car event, set for November 19–22, 2026, by unveiling a spectacular display on December 4 at Christie’s building at Rockefeller Plaza. Taking center stage, encased in a striking glass showcase, is a 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante, one of only 15 Atalante coupes ever produced. “It is a privilege to officially launch Rétromobile New York and showcase our “jewel box” at such an iconic Manhattan location with our partner, Gooding Christie’s, especially during the holiday season,” said Gerard Neveu, CEO, Rétromobile New York. “The 1937 Bugatti Atalante is a true masterpiece—original, rare, elegant, and steeped in provenance. This glass display, along with a remarkable rotation of classic cars, will appear at major automotive events across the United States throughout the year, offering a preview of the exceptional vehicles we will bring together in New York next November.” “As we prepare to kick off our activities in the New Year, we have launched the Rétromobile New York website now and are offering tickets at a 20% discount through December 31, 2025,” added Neveu. Jewel Box Rétromobile New York will make its debut at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan from November 19–22, 2026, bringing the legendary 50 year heritage of the Paris show to America for the first time. The event will feature curated exhibitions, iconic vehicles, and a vibrant community of collectors and enthusiasts. For more information and early-bird tickets at 20%, visit www.retromobile.us. Retromobile NY is a show organized in partnership between duPont REGISTRY Group and Comexposium. Learn More About Rétromobile New York:Rétromobile New York is the American edition of the renowned Parisian show. Bringing together collectors, enthusiasts, and experts from around the world, the event aims to become a key fixture on the international automotive calendar. For more information, visit www.retromobile.us and our Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and X channels. About duPont REGISTRY Group: duPont REGISTRY Group (DRG) is the world’s leading luxury automotive ecosystem, encapsulating the culture, community and commerce of the high-end automotive lifestyle. For more than 40 years, DRG has served as a trusted advisor to the vibrant global community of members looking to buy and sell luxury vehicles. Using data insights and advanced technology to build a seamless and scalable digital marketplace, duPont REGISTRY Group facilitates billions of dollars in transactions and redefines how enthusiasts and collectors engage within the luxury automotive world. Its portfolio includes duPont REGISTRY, Canossa Events, Cavallino, Supercar Owners Circle, Petrolicious, Retromobile USA, FerrariChat, and Sotheby's Motorsport. For more information, visit www.duPontREGISTRYGroup.com. About Comexposium:The Comexposium Group is one of the leading event organizers worldwide, creating events that bring communities together to discover and explore businesses, passions and interests. Comexposium organizes more than 150 professional and general public events, covering more than 10 sectors of activity (agriculture/food, retail/digital, fashion/accessories, leisure). The group connects 48,000 exhibitors and 3.5 million visitors, 365 days a year in 22 countries. Creating experiences and encounters between individuals, Comexposium enables, through its events (SIAL, All4Pack, Paris Retail Week, One to One Monaco & Biarritz, Foire de Paris, Rétromobile, etc.) and its associated content, its communities to be connected all year round through an effective and targeted omni-channel approach.

Six cars, including classic and modern models, are parked in a row near a beach with ocean waves and a cloudy sky in the background.

By Dylan Orluck – December 08, 2025

Inside the Velocity Tour: Supercars, Backroads, and North...

Re-live an incredible automotive spectacle with Velocity Invitational. The Velocity Invitational is one of the greatest automotive events in the United States. But, like all great events, you’ll have to wait an entire year to enjoy it again. The team at Velocity Invitational found a brilliant way to split up the year with The Velocity Tour, an extremely well thought out expedition through northern California on some of the best driving roads this country has to offer. Our friends at McLaren North American gave us the keys to a menacing Artura and sent us on our way. Discover Velocity Invitational " width="680"> Arrival Day On the first day we arrived at the Ava Hotel in Paso Robles just in time to check in, get our gift bags, and gather in the lobby for cocktail hour. Following the cocktail hour, we were shuttled to the Sensorio light field, a breathtaking display of lights that takes over the California rolling hills. From there we arrived at the incredible Robert Hall winery where we took a tour of the vineyard and wine cellar and learned about their devotion to sustainability and their exciting work in regenerative organic viticulture. Our education paid off when the wine we learned about was then paired with a delicious private dinner in the dimly-lit cavern. Surrounded by the barrels of wine, we began to connect with the like-minded individuals with whom we would hit the road the following day. Day 1 This was our first day of driving. After a lovely breakfast and a drivers meeting, we met in the parking garage and fired up our cars. The lineup awaiting us in the garage was incredible: there was everything from a 1960 Ferrari 250 California Spyder to a 2025 Czinger 21C Vmax and a 1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Evo 2. When we started driving, I quickly realized that these were some of the best driving roads I have ever been on. The coastal backroads featured hairpin turns and lengthy straights to really help test the limits of the McLaren Artura. And each stop along the way was strategically picked and perfectly timed. Whether it was stopping for coffee or gathering for a lovely lunch at The Bernardus, the Velocity team didn’t miss a single thing. From the Bernardus we took the backroads to the iconic Laguna Seca Raceway where we did spirited parade laps in all of our cars with the help of Skip Barber’s team. As if this day couldnt get any better we ended our run at the Intercontinental Monterey and got ready for a private dinner at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. This dinner was truly spectacular and offered the participants plenty of time to catch up with one another after an extremely exciting day. Day 2 This was our longest day of driving, but that’s what we were there for. We departed from Monterey to Scotts Valley to get a tour of the state-of-the-art Canepa facility by Bruce Canepa himself. Canepa is home to some of the rarest automobiles in the world, and we could’ve easily spent the whole day shuttling between the museum, sales floor, and restoration shop. After Canepa, we hit the road headed towards the coastline winding through redwood trees as we climbed and descended mountain after mountain. At one point we were following the 250 California Spyder and had a Mercedes-Benz 300SL roadster in the rearview which is, in my opinion, as about as close as you can get to time travel. Watching a 300SL roadster rip through the mountains is something I will never forget. The group reconvened for a photoshoot before heading to a quick lunch. We then raced back to our cars to head over the Golden Gate Bridge towards the Lodge at Sonoma. We ended the day at the incredible Ram’s Gate Winery, another amazing facility. Day 3 Our final day was filled with spirited drives and more fun automotive activities. After our morning drive, we met and toured the Keller Estate Collection, which is undeniably one of the most impressive collections on the planet. From there we had our final lunch and parted ways. The Velocity Tour offered the participants an automotive experience that is unmatched by anyone else in the space. Jeff O’Neill and his team were able to give the Velocity Invitational participants access to places most people only ever have the opportunity to read about. I’ve been lucky enough to attend similarly curated events, but this was different. The Velocity Tour brought together the coolest group of people and allowed them to only worry about driving and eating while their team handled the rest. From here on out, I won’t be missing anything else The Velocity Invitational team puts on.

INEOS Grenadier LETECH Trailmaster AGMC Dubai-3

By Khris Bharath – December 08, 2025

First Portal-Axle INEOS Grenadier Trialmaster LETECH Show...

Besides exotics and supercars, given their popularity, we routinely also list an extensive range of lifted trucks and SUVs for sale here on duPont REGISTRY. Think everything from portal-axle G-Wagens and long-travel 6x6 Broncos to old-school Defenders and more. Yes, boxy off-roaders are back in a big way, and the restomod wave has proved that old school off-road icons never lost relevance; enthusiasts just wanted them updated. The INEOS Grenadier landed perfectly into that space when it hit the scene in 2022, picking up where the original Defender left off. But to really understand why it exists, here’s a quick recap on why the INEOS Grenadier came to be. Sir Jim Ratcliffe is a British billionaire, founder and chairman of INEOS, one of the world’s largest petrochemical companies. The man is also a lifelong adventurer known for exploring remote regions, climbing, sailing, and driving across continents. When production of the old Defender was coming to an end in 2016, Sir Ratcliff was looking for a way to keep the 70+ year legacy of one of Britain’s most loved off-roaders alive. However, when that no longer seemed feasible, he decided to come up with his very own hard-wearing 4x4. Carrying a quintessentially British spirit with robust German engineering (you’ll even find a half/half badge with the Union Jack and German flag on the fender), the INEOS Grenadier was developed with key engineering inputs from Magna Steyr in Austria. They supported critical series development, durability work, and chassis refinement. Full-scale manufacturing now happens in France at INEOS Automotive’s Hambach production facility, formerly the Smart plant. The INEOS Grenadier may look old-school and utilitarian, but beneath the boxy silhouette is a well-thought-out product, engineered from the ground up with modern hardware, ergonomics, and an exhaustive range of factory accessories. A tough-as-nails ladder-frame construction, beam axles, the refined BMW B58 3.0 turbo inline-six that produces 282 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, a proven ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox, Brembo brakes, Recaro seats, mechanical low-range, and physical switchgear. The United Arab Emirates, a nation known for having a rich off-roading culture, is now playing a pivotal role in the brand’s expansion. Albatha Automotive Group: The parent company of AGMC, one of the UAE’s longest-established premium automotive distributors representing prestigious marques like Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, BMW, Mini, and more, is now the official distributor for INEOS Automotive in the country. Their partnership is supported by a new regional headquarters in Dubai and a pop-up showroom in Dubai Design District (D3) from 1 to 14 December 2025. Besides getting a pre-launch sneak peek, I was recently on site at D3 to watch the curtains being drawn for the Trialmaster X LETECH portal axle. Built in collaboration with AGMC and German off-road specialist LETECH (Lennartz Technik), this is the very first example in the Middle East. You start out with a Trialmaster spec (Wagon/Pickup) that is equipped with locking diffs, safari windows, heated leather, privacy glass, and premium audio. The Portal hubs add an axle offset of 150 millimeters (5.9 inches) and increase ground clearance by about 186 millimeters (7.3 inches), which results in a final clearance of 450 millimeters (17.7 inches). Compared to the standard INEOS Grenadier, we also see beefed-up fender flares to accommodate the bigger tires. Wading depth goes up to 1050 millimeters (41.3 inches). That is more than three and a half feet of water. Approach angle increases to 45.5 degrees, breakover to 43 degrees on the wagon, and departure to 46 degrees. Throw in LETECH hardware, and the vehicle becomes an expedition-ready vehicle: an Aluminum roof rack, winch attachment, running boards, 20-liter (5.3-gallon) fuel canister mounts, rear ladder, and six roof-mounted work lights rated at 9,600 lumens each. I also caught up with Dan Balmer, INEOS Automotive’s Regional Director for the Middle East and Africa. When asked whether INEOS plans to enter endurance-style rally competitions in the future to prove the platform in real-world events. Balmer mentioned that while motorsport is not active today, conversations have taken place internally, and the idea remains on the table, noting that there is potential. He added that the ideal combination would be that of customer participation and a Works team. A couple of rally-focused opportunities could make sense in the future, but nothing is active right now. Our discussion also turned to a question many enthusiasts keep asking: Will we ever see a two-door or short-wheelbase variant? Balmer noted that this has been asked before, but that it remains a niche slice of the market that would represent just about five percent of the volume opportunity. A two-door variant would require significant engineering. He did mention that they showed off the Shortermaster in 2024, which is a shorter version of their Quartermaster pickup with a smaller bed that also garnered a positive reaction. When asked about the possibility of an open-top version, he noted that it is also not in development, though modularity in the platform leaves room for interesting aftermarket directions. Next, I asked how INEOS plans to position itself moving forward, whether niche or high-volume. Balmer was candid. "Right now, we are niche, and I think LETECH also supports that niche positioning, because it's important for us to get that credibility. But we need to broaden the audience, as early adopters will only buy your cars for a certain time, and beyond that, we need to grow that volume." Expansion will come through a second model line and new market editions, including more street-friendly variants. Speaking specifically about the LETECH Portal Axle kit, Dan added, “With the portal axles, the vehicle architecture changes completely. You cannot simply bolt a lift kit on. Geometry, software, and differential behavior must be recalibrated. The installed kit is a complete reengineering rather than just a cosmetic lift. Aftermarket lifts exist, but they change geometry. Ours maintains factory engineering values.” Another key question was whether the LETECH portal axle configuration seen in Dubai could eventually make its way stateside. Balmer explained that the kit is engineered for European specification at the moment, and that U.S. adoption would depend on regulatory pathways and aftermarket compliance, but noted that if homologation allows, customer-installed kits could be feasible for North America in the future as well. For a more ground-level perspective, Mo Elarishy, Brand Manager for INEOS Grenadier UAE, said. "The INEOS Grenadier with LETECH portal axles provides the freedom to go off-grid and explore the natural beauty of the UAE." He also noted that demand for adventure vehicles here is growing fast and that capability remains the number one priority for the customer base. Alongside the portal launch, the UAE also receives the full INEOS Grenadier portfolio: Fieldmaster aimed towards comfort, the Trialmaster for capability, the Quartermaster pickup for utility, and the Arcane Works Detour edition. Limited to just 200 examples, this special edition was on display on site and features fine-grain leather, 18-inch Arcane alloys, and a cashmere headliner. Dr. Andreas Schaaf of AlBatha Automotive said, "The Ineos Grenadier is a perfect fit for AGMC and the UAE market. We serve discerning drivers who seek the performance, comfort, and rugged style the Grenadier offers." The standard INEOS Grenadier was already highly capable, but the LETECH portal axle version turns things up to eleven. A familiar shape, modern engineering, and now portal-level capability make it an immensely capable overlanding-style vehicle that is ready to take on the great outdoors. View All INEOS Grenadiers For Sale on duPont REGISTRY Images: AGMC Group (UAE), Khris Bharath

A classic silver race car with "1955" on the side is displayed on a red carpet at an outdoor car show during the 1000 Miglia Experience UAE 2025: Opening Day Highlights, with people and other cars in the background.

By Khris Bharath – December 01, 2025

1000 Miglia Experience, UAE 2025: Opening Day Highlights

If you want to get a taste of where the Gulf region’s collector car world is headed, the 1000 Miglia Experience, UAE; is an event that you want to watch closely. The fourth edition is currently underway (November 30, 2025 - December 4, 2025) in the United Arab Emirates. The energy had been building since the opening day of the rally, held this past weekend in Dubai, on the lawns of the Emirates Golf Course. On display were a spectacular array of participating vintage and classic cars, besides one-offs, several historically significant automobiles and more modern metal. But to understand why this event carries weight, you need to know where it began. The original Mille Miglia is one of the all time great road races, right up there with the likes of the Targa Floria, and La Carrera Pan Americana. The original race ran through northern Italy between 1927 to 1957, leaving Brescia, onto Rome, and a 1,000 mile dash, returning back to Brescia across public roads. It became a defining test of endurance, engineering, and bravery, attracting both professional drivers and manufacturers who wanted to prove performance outside controlled racetracks. The event was put on hold after 1957 owing to safety concerns. The modern format was revived in 1977 as a regularity rally to preserve that heritage without the risks of unrestricted speed. The UAE edition builds on that legacy and began in 2021, expanding that glorious chapter into a region with a fast evolving collector car scene. Looking back, one of the most noteworthy moments for the Mille Miglia is the historic run by Sir Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson in a Mercedes Benz 300 SLR. Starting at precisely 7:22 am, on May 1st, 1955, the duo managed to cover 1,000 miles in 10 hours and seven minutes, averaging more than 98 miles per hour on open public roads. Remember, this was long before the days of modern safety. Their record is one that stands to this day. Mercedes had a massive presence at the event with SLs and SLRs on display spanning several eras. The showstopper of the event, without a doubt was the 1955 Mercedes Benz 300 SLR, now valued in the millions. For some context, the 300 SLR Ulhenhaut is the most expensive car to cross the auction block at $142 million. Other noteworthy cars to wear the three-pointed star were Pagodas and several 300 SL Gullwings SLR McLaren Stirling Moss, the extremely rare Mercedes AMG PureSpeed, AMGs from the Hammer-era i.e. 1990s. The Koenigsegg CC prototype made its presence felt, fresh off its win at The Quail in California. There was no shortage of even more machinery from Stuttgart. Think Porsche 356 coupes and Speedsters, air-cooled 911s from several generations. Elsewhere, you had pre-war beauties like a Blower Bentley finished in British racing green and a vintage Bugatti racer. From the 1960s, a bright red Ferrari 275 GTB Shortnose, a C2 Chevy Corvette, a Jaguar E Type, and several classic American muscle cars and pickups. We also saw some 1980s side-strake action in the form of a stunning red pairing: a Lamborghini Countach sitting alongside a Ferrari Testarossa. It wouldn’t be a classic car show without Alfa Romeos, and BMWs. The Poonawalla Rolls-Royce lineup from India, made up of all eight generations of the Phantom, a model celebrating its centenary in 2025, made a statement. Supercar Majlis is also present with a curated selection of hypercar royalty, including a McLaren P1. The legendary Dubai Police renowned for their supercar fleet presented a couple of high-performance cars from their active duty, including a Mansory G-Wagen. Staying with Mercedes, there were not one, but two stately S600 Mercedes Pullman limousines, both belonging to the Royal families of Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, respectively. Duccio Lopresto, Managing Director MENA, RM Sotheby's, explained the shift happening within the GCC’s collector ecosystems, while also outlining the scale of the upcoming RM Sotheby’s auction in Abu Dhabi this weekend, at the inaugural Collector Week. With an estimated $80 million to $90 million lineup, Valuations are comparable to Monterey. Source: 1000 Miglia Experience, UAE As for the rally, the first leg is now moving from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah, climbing toward the twists and turns of Jebel Jais. The route continues into the Sultanate of Oman and back to Ras Al Khaimah, then across to the Emirati capital, Abu Dhabi, before returning to Dubai. Total race distance is roughly 1,600 kilometers, just shy of 1,000 miles. Watch out for our exclusive coverage of the 1000 Miglia Experience, UAE on Petrolicious soon. View All Supercars and Exotics for Sale Images: Khris Bharath

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