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By Caitlin Duffy –  October 01, 2015

5 Best Winter Driving Academies for 2015-2016

Every year, a handful of the world's top manufacturers offer an exclusive learning experience to the few who choose to test their skill behind the wheel. It may only just be October, but winter plans for this winter are already underway.Winter driving academies and programs pop up anywhere from Colorado to Finland, offering enthusiasts a chance to study the form of expert drivers as they traverse ice and snow, taking luxury performance cars into conditions most people are afraid to drive through. Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin and more all organize such an event every winter, with a few doing so in more than one location.(See Also: duPont REGISTRY Live at Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas 2015)Typically, they'll last for anywhere from one to four days, and a full experience is built around the lessons. Of course you spend plenty of time on the slick practice roads, but attendees also regularly enjoy the finest lodging and dining you could imagine. If you're thinking that you'd like to learn how to power slide a Bentley across a frozen lake, below are just a few of the upcoming events for this winter. Check them out, sign up for the one that you like best and enjoy winter driving in luxury.BMW Driving Experience: Snow Basic Training From theory to practice, the BMW Driving Experience will take you on a two day journey in Sölden, Austria to become a "snow pro." The first day covers classroom-style instruction of the theory behind how you drive, and the second has you practice maneuvers such as braking, drifting and swerving on iced over and snow covered terrain. Register NowLamborghini Winter Accademia Learn how to handle the Aventador and Huracan on ice and snow in one of two programs held in Livigno, Italy. The "Intensivo Program" offers a one-day intensive course focused on dynamic driving techniques and performance handling. The "Avanzanto Program" is a two-day course for drivers to test the limits of the cars and themselves. Events are scheduled for Feb. 19-22, 2016 and Feb. 21-24, 2016. A special "Pilota Lamborghini Las Vegas" event is scheduled for Nov. 7 and 8 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Register Now Aston Martin on Ice Two events in two locations will provide Aston Martin enthusiasts with the chance to drive an Aston Martin fitted with 2,000 spikes as a professional teaches different driving techniques. Both scheduled for Feb. 1, 2016, one will take place in Lapland, Sweden, while the other will be in Crested Butte, Colorado. The Swedish event is slated to last four days, while final dates for the Colorado event have yet to be confirmed. Register Now Bentley Power on Ice Six groups of enthusiasts will gather for four days in Finland at the edge of the Artic Circle, close to the Russian border, to test every limit of the British marque's all-wheel-drive vehicles. Learn how to drift sideways without losing control and enjoy the thrill of an extreme sport, all while sitting in warm, leather clad luxury. The first event runs from Jan. 27-30, 2016, and the sixth from Feb. 15 - 18. Register Now AMG Winter Sporting Join experts from Mercedes-AMG in Arjeplog, Sweden, just below the Arctic Circle, for a chance to tame the freezing temperatures in a class suited to your level of experience. Dates run from early January, 2016 to March, with four separate locations offering four different experiences. But regardless of whether you stay at the AMG Lodge, the Hotel Kraja or somewhere else, the driving will leave you exhausted from excitement at the end of each day. Register Now See More Event Coverage

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By Andrew Nabors –  September 29, 2015

duPont REGISTRY Live at Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas 2015

As a great kickoff to our fall show season, we joined forces with Barrett-Jackson for their annual Las Vegas auction. Last year felt like only a few weeks ago when we arrived on Sept. 23.First in was the latest in radical Wranglers from Starwood Motors. This 2015 model featured their signature exterior finish along with a host of suspension upgrades. Lamborghini Las Vegas arrived next with a bright green Huracan and blue Aventador Spyder.Because we try to remain prepared for any bad weather, Argo ATV delivered a new eight wheel drive amphibious vehicle. They asked us what we needed for a proper show display, and our response was 5,000 watts of audio along with a KC light bar.For more shock and awe, Lumilor Labs, the same company that built the heartbeat Lexus RC F , brought a wild chopper featuring their electroluminescent paint. When 18 volts are applied to the patented paint, it makes for a brilliant display. Always on-hand are our friends at Z-Clip, whose carbon fiber wallets are always a hot commodity. The Ronald McDonald House Collector Car Charity brought their new red Corvette Z06, which is being raffled off on Dec. 12.For those who like to party south of the border, Wide Open Excursions brought a new Baja Challenge car. Powered by a naturally aspirated Subaru boxer behind the rear axle, these rugged rigs have over 18” of suspension travel. If you prefer to keep your tires closer to the ground, TireStickers.com was showcasing their sidewall enhancing graphics on the Starwood Jeep.A special announcement from the auction block was the naming of a new event next year. Barrett-Jackson will be at the Mohegan Sun Casino Resort in Connecticut from June 23-25. In the meantime, we will see you in Scottsdale in January. Stay tuned to Autofluence for more coverage of Barrett-Jackson events.Gallery See More Event Coverage

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By Caitlin Duffy –  September 28, 2015

Gulf 918 Spyder Unveiling at Roche Bobois Atlanta

At 9:18 pm on Sept. 18, a 918 Spyder sporting one-of-a-kind livery had its sheet pulled back amid a stunning showroom in Atlanta's prestigious Buckhead neighborhood.Guests to the showroom of Roche Bobois Atlanta included clients of the French designer furniture company, members of the local Exotic Car Meet and select V.I.P. guests, as well as the same one-off Porsche 918 Spyder that appeared on the cover of the October duPont REGISTRY issue.It's the only car approved by both Gulf Oil LP and Porsche Cars of North America (PCNA) painted in the official Gulf racing livery. It sports a "2" on its sides, an homage to the impressive Porsche 917 victories at the 1970 and 1971 Le Mans races.After enjoying refreshments in the showroom and complimentary copies of the October duPont REGISTRY, guests gathered close as the cover on the cover car was pulled back, phones and cameras at the ready. The 917's theme continued throughout the Roche Bobois event that night, as the film "LeMans" was screened on the building's roof after the 918's unveiling.Sponsors for the event included Fifth Third Bank's Private Banking Division, Avion Tequila, The Atlantan and Missoni Home, with catering by Reethof Hospitality and music from DJ Mix Master David. Check out the photos of this event in the galleries below and the video above, and learn more about the Gulf 918 Spyder Weissach in our October issue. Buy This Issue NowGallery by the Atlantan (Source: Roche Bobois, Vimeo) See More Event Coverage

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By Caitlin Duffy –  September 21, 2015

Supercar Launches Leaving Cars & Coffee Italy

This past weekend saw some incredible car shows happening all around the world as gear heads rose with the sun to attend their closest Cars & Coffee events.Italian enthusiasts near Turin had the opportunity to visit Cars & Coffee Italy on Saturday, Sept. 19, and with a turnout that included models from all makes and generations, it was a beautiful show in an even more beautiful setting.YouTube channel NM225 Car HD Videos shared a video today of the parade of supercars leaving the event, with each taking a turn launching, revving and/or doing a small burnout before heading off into the rolling hills of northern Italy's countryside.The official Facebook page for the event also shared a look at all the cars that arrived, with live updates happening the day of the event and a first recap gallery added Sept. 20. Take a moment to check out the photos from this Cars & Coffee event below and the video above, then browse our exclusive listings to find a supercar for the next Saturday morning car show near you.Browse ListingsGallery (Source: YouTube, Facebook) See More Cars & Coffee News

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By Andrew Nabors –  August 28, 2015

1952 Rolls-Royce Phantom IV by Vantage Motorworks Wins Tw...

Being invited to Pebble Beach is an honor that many collectors and owners will never experience, no matter how prestigious their cars may be. Winning an award elevates your car's notoriety to a level that only a handful of vehicles have ever reached. Winning two awards at the same showing is almost inconceivable. But it happened this year to one of the rarest Rolls-Royce models.Only eighteen examples of the Phantom IV were produced between the 1950 to 1956 model years. This was the twilight of the coachbuilding era, and while the bodies of HJ Mulliner are probably more well known, there’s no denying that Hooper’s Sedanaca de Ville limousine is the Phantom to have.As reported by Romania-Insider Aug. 17, this 1952 Phantom IV is owned by Ion Tiriac and has a half-century of awards under its belt. To make sure it was up to the rigorous standards of the Pebble Beach Concours, it was handed over to one of the most renowned Rolls-Royce restorers in the world, Vantage Motorworks of Miami, FL. Richard Gorman and his team of experts went through every system and surface of this Phantom, knowing full well that their attention to detail could result in history being made.History is something we are proud of also, as Vantage Motorworks has been a fixture in the duPont REGISTRY from day one. For over three decades we have worked together to find new homes for pristine classics and collectibles that Vantage has offered for sale.  Mr. Tiriac’s spectacular Pebble Beach double award winner is another fine example of the automotive artistry that passes through the doors of Vantage Motorworks.To see Vantage Motorworks' incredible classic vehicles for sale, click the button below.View Inventory(Source: Vantage Motorworks, Romania-Inside.com) (Photo Source: Nadia Comaneci Facebook Page) See More Dealer News

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By Edward Jones –  August 24, 2015

The Majestic Run 2015 Recap - Five Days of Automotive Bliss

The 2015 Majestic Run is a five day, all-inclusive road rally specifically designed for car and driving enthusiasts. It offers a chance to drive some of the most scenic roads in the Rocky Mountain West along with the shared experiences and camaraderie of new friends. The rally started on August 14 at Vehicle Vault, the premier automotive gallery and museum located in the Denver suburb of Parker, Colorado. The first day started fast, on a 160-mile cruise through the Arkansas River valley to the lunch stop in Salida, Colorado. Drivers then wove through forested roads, up and down the 12,000 plus feet elevation of Independence Pass, before descending into the mountain town of all mountain towns - Aspen - where rally drivers were treated to an incredible dinner and cocktail experience at Brexi Brasserie and a night’s stay in the ever luxurious St. Regis Hotel. Day two started at breakfast and one of the most Majestic valet car ports in Aspen. After a quick gas up, the rally was off through the mountains, over one incredible pass after another, up and down hills and valleys, through national forest and desert canyon, to lunch at the Wine Country Inn in Palisades, Colorado on the western slope. Fueled up from lunch, the rally decided to pick up the pace, driving 60 miles of perfect - and perfectly deserted - canyon roads to the Gateway Canyon resort.  The Gateway Canyon is remarkable and unmistakable. It is truly a destination. Rally drivers spent the evening eating, drinking and on a private tour of the Gateway Colorado Auto Museum, and spent the night in one of the 10 best resorts in the world according to most travel experts. Day three was designed for serious drivers as curves were hugged on over 200 miles of twisty-turvy canyon roads and majestic mountain highways, with just enough well maintained straights and valleys to make sure top speeds were reached. The destination - back up into the mountains and south to Durango. Durango gave drivers a chance to chill for a bit. Lunch at Grassburger and cocktails at the famous Diamond Belle Saloon in the Strater Hotel were followed by a private 5-course meal, featuring fine wines and shockingly hilarious word games that made everyone blush just a little bit. After that night, everyone knew each other just a little bit more. After a cool night’s sleep in the luxurious Strater Hotel, rally drivers embarked on the longest day of driving in this year’s rally. Drivers were treated to more mountain passes and National Forest highways on their way from Durango to Taos, New Mexico, for a private lunch at a French fusion café and then on to Santa Fe. Mountain weather was in full change-mode as the rally participants experienced sun, clouds, wind, rain and even a little snow and small hail. No damage was seen, but stories were made and a few of the drivers were tested. Dinner and Hot-Wheels races were won and lost at the San Francisco Street Grill in Santa Fe before racking out at the famous La Fonda hotel on the Santa Fe Plaza. The last day began with some good natured hijinx, in the form of some unexpected car decorating from resident tricksters. The rally then took off on a beautiful cool day over the last few mountain passes, before crossing back over into Colorado and to the smooth roads home. Now all there is to do is clean off the bugs and plan for the 2016 Majestic Run. Get all the information at www.majesticrun.com and follow them on Facebook at @MajesticRun and Instagram at @majesticrun. Sponsored by:

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By Caitlin Duffy –  August 20, 2015

Mecum Auctions Sees 7 $1 Million+ Sales at Monterey

The various auctions at California's Monterey Car Week have always seen notoriously high totals for their sales, but the 2015 shows seem to have been some of the highest of all. Mecum Auctions has announced their final total and top sales, showing the growth of interest in luxury cars is in no danger of slowing.With 387 cars in total crossing their block between Aug. 13 and 15, Mecum reached a total sales amount of $44,335,001, as an Aug. 19 press release from the auction house tells us. Seven cars alone brought in $10,225,000, with each individually selling for more than $1 million - with five of those sales happening on Saturday, Aug. 15, alone.The top sale from Mecum's event was a 1969 Lamborghini Miura P400 S for $2.3 million, while a 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda Convertible wasn't far behind at $2.25 million. One of the most anticipated lots, Steve McQueen's Porsche 930 Turbo Carrera, sold for $1.95 million. A portion of the sale of McQueen's Porsche is being donated to The Boys Republic - read more in our June 10 article.Check out the list below to see the top 10 sales from Mecum's Monterey auction, and prepare for Mecum's next event Sept. 16-19 in Dallas, Texas. 1969 Lamborghini Miura P400 S $2,300,000 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda Convertible $2,250,000 1976 Porsche 930 Turbo Carrera $1,950,000 2005 Maserati MC12 $1,575,000 1989 Ferrari F40 $1,150,000 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra Roadster $1,000,000 2005 Porsche Carrera GT $1,000,000 1967 Shelby 427 Cobra Roadster $950,000 1967 Toyota 2000GT $925,000 2005 Porsche Carrera GT $775,000 Upcoming Mecum Lots (Source: Mecum Auctions) See More Updates from Monterey and Pebble Beach

1964 Ferrari 250 LM

By Edward Jones –  August 19, 2015

Official: RM Sotheby's Monterey Auctions Set Record for C...

At Monterey Car Week 2015, RM Sotheby's set the record for the highest ever total for a collector car auction, announcing an official total of $172.9 million in sales.In a press release issued by the auction house today, they announced that they bested last year's performance by 20 percent. At the top of their sales was a 1964 Ferrari 250 LM that fetched an astonishing $17.6 million. Additionally, The Pinnacle Portfolio set the benchmark for the highest single-day, single-vendor auction at $75.4 million.“The results truly speak for themselves and reflect our commitment to bringing not only the best to the market, but backing our product by extensive research and documentation," said Ian Kelleher, Managing Director, RM Sotheby’s West Coast Division. "In addition, the Monterey event was truly a fantastic showcase of the RM and Sotheby’s teams working in concert to build a global platform for collector cars."What's more, the RM team won the "Best in Show" award at the Peach Beach Concours d'Elegance with the 1924 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A F. Ramseier & Cie Worblaufen Cabriolet, which was restored by RM Auto Restoration.Below are the 35 exotic cars that sold for more than $1 million, each of which helped create the record-breaking results. Top 35 Sales 1964 Ferrari 250 LM - $17,600,000.00 1998 McLaren F1 'LM-Specification' - $13,750,000.00 1953 Jaguar C-Type Works Lightweight- $13,200,000.00 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Competizione 'Tour de France' - $13,200,000.00 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider - $8,500,000.00 1950 Ferrari 275S/340 America Barchetta - $7,975,000.00 2005 Ferrari Enzo - $6,050,000.00 1931 Bentley 4½-Litre Supercharged Two-Seater Sports - $4,015,000.00 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB/6C Alloy - $3,960,000.00 1994 Ferrari F40 LM - $3,300,000.00 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 - $3,300,000.00 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spider - $2,750,000.00 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV - $2,475,000.00 1985 Ferrari 288 GTO - $2,420,000.00 2012 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport "300" - $2,310,000.00 2005 Maserati MC12 - $2,090,000.00 1952 Jaguar XK120 Supersonic - $2,062,500.00 1995 Ferrari F50 - $1,980,000.00 2015 McLaren P1 - $1,980,000.00 2006 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 "001" - $1,815,000.00 1910 American Underslung Traveler Toy Tonneau - $1,815,000.00 1963 Ferrari 250 GT/L Berlinetta 'Lusso' - $1,815,000.00 1933 Duesenberg Model SJ 'Riviera' Phaeton - $1,595,000.00 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Coupe 'Boano Prototype' - $1,485,000.00 2008 Lamborghini Reventón - $1,375,000.00 1959 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series II Prototype - $1,320,000.00 1976 Lamborghini Countach LP 400 'Periscopio' - $1,320,000.00 1988 Porsche 959 'Komfort' - $1,210,000.00 1966 Shelby 427 Cobra - $1,210,000.00 1953 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback Sports Saloon - $1,210,000.00 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster - $1,210,000.00 1940 Aston Martin Speed Model Type C - $1,155,000.00 1956 Bentley S1 Continental Drophead Coupe - $1,155,000.00 1958 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III Drophead Coupe - $1,072,500.00 1970 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Berlinetta U.S. Prototype - $1,045,000.00 (Source: RM Sotheby's) See More Automotive Auction News

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By Edward Jones –  August 18, 2015

2015 Monterey Car Week Recap

Every year, thousands show up to Monterey, California for one week to attend what is known simply as Monterey Car Week. This year, auction houses from around the globe were on hand to roll some of the world's finest automobile across their stages. Along with the famous auctions, events such as The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering and the Concours d'Elegance took place, allowing event guests to peruse through the opulent selection of cars. At the auctions, more than $400 million worth of cars went across the various auction houses’ blocks. One of the highlights was the Pinnacle Portfolio collection of cars, offered by RM Sotheby's. This collection sold for more than $75.4 million, according to a press release issued by the auction house August 15. The car shows had their fair show of highlights, including the Lamborghini Aventador SV Roadster's unveiling at The Quail, a Motorsport Gathering. At the Concours d'Elegance, a 1924 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A won the Best in Show award, proving that the classics will always be honored. Below are galleries of some of the events, so be sure to browse through them to experience Monterey Car Week from anywhere in the world. And, stay with us for official results from the auction houses. Exotics on Cannery Row Concorse Italiano McCall's Motorworks Revival Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering See Other Pebble Beach Coverage 

Majestic Run 2015

By Edward Jones –  August 14, 2015

The Majestic Run 2015 Sets Off - The Rally Designed for t...

Starting today is The Majestic Run 2015, a road rally designed with the automotive enthusiast in mind - those who want to drive on the most beautiful, scenic and remote roads in the Rocky Mountain West, and enjoy the company of like-minded individuals.The rally, which will conclude on August 18, will take its participants through some of the country's most breathtaking roads as they experience the exclusive resort hotels and dining experiences. When they aren't driving, they will be relaxing, dining and drinking at unique and exclusive venues, all with the company of other car enthusiasts. Posted by Team Family Wagon on Monday, August 10, 2015 Their route starts today at the Vehicle Vault, a premier automotive gallery and museum in the Denver area. Their destination, after venturing through scenic spots such as Aspen, Colorado, is Sante Fe, New Mexico.Stay with us for more information on The Majestic Run 2015 as it continues.Gallery

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