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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Charles Bradley – January 29, 2026

Miami Unveils Superyacht-Level Hospitality Experience For 2026 Formula 1 Grand Prix

When Formula 1 returns to South Florida in 2026, the spectacle surrounding the Miami Grand Prix will reach a new apex of luxury. Organizers have revealed the MSC Yacht Club, an all-new hospitality centerpiece presented by MSC Cruises that will debut May 1-3, 2026, at the Miami International Autodrome – redefining what premium track-side viewing looks like. Anchoring a reimagined Marina presented by MSC Cruises, the MSC Yacht Club is designed as a lifelike superyacht structure that blends high design, immersive views, and elevated hospitality. Measuring 264 feet in length, 96 feet in width, and rising 50 feet at its highest point, the five-deck venue will be positioned inside Turns 5 through 9 – one of the circuit’s most dynamic and action-packed sections – offering guests uninterrupted sightlines across up to five corners from a single vantage point. Since its debut in 2022, the Marina has become one of the Miami Grand Prix’s most recognizable features. The MSC Yacht Club represents its most ambitious evolution to date and stands as the event’s largest new hospitality offering since the unveiling of a purpose-built Paddock Club in 2023. Inspired by MSC Cruises’ exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” concept, the MSC Yacht Club brings the cruise line’s signature ultra-luxury experience ashore. On MSC Cruises’ vessels, the Yacht Club is defined by private suites, 24/7 butler and concierge services, and restricted-access spaces. At the Miami GP, that ethos translates into a 32,000-square-foot, five-level hospitality environment, with each deck offering a distinct blend of comfort, cuisine, and premium race viewing. Every detail has been curated to deliver refined luxury with Formula 1 immediacy. Guests will move between shaded lounges, open-air terraces, elevated viewing platforms, and signature pools, all designed to maintain a close connection to the on-track action. At the heart of the experience is an ambitious culinary program curated by Bagatelle, the globally renowned hospitality brand known for pairing French Riviera-inspired cuisine with high-energy ambiance. Serving as the culinary anchor of the MSC Yacht Club, Bagatelle will deliver an all-day dining experience synchronized with the rhythm of race weekend. Inspired by the fresh farmers’ markets of the French Riviera, the menu promises restaurant-level execution with a sense of celebratory indulgence. For guests seeking an even more intimate experience, Bagatelle will also offer a seated Chef’s Table by reservation, providing a curated expression of its iconic dining ritual. The MSC Yacht Club’s tiered layout further distinguishes the experience. Nine private cabanas deliver exclusive comfort and privacy just feet from the racing surface. Deck 1 offers a calmer, open-air environment with a striking pool and plush lounge seating. Deck 2 features reserved shaded seating paired with Bagatelle’s refined dining experience. Deck 3 elevates guests to a higher vantage point with shaded seating and access to a Jack Daniel’s bar offering custom-curated cocktails. The Captain’s Deck crowns the structure with 360-degree panoramic views across the circuit and surrounding campus, delivering one of the most commanding perspectives available anywhere on the Formula 1 calendar. Beyond premium hospitality, the Marina presented by MSC Cruises will also introduce a new general admission area in 2026, featuring an elevated viewing platform inside Turn 7. The addition allows ticketed fans greater proximity to one of the circuit’s most technically demanding corners, broadening access while maintaining the Marina’s reputation as a focal point of the event. “From the very beginning, the Marina presented by MSC Cruises has been one of the defining features of our race,” said Katharina Nowak, President of the Miami GP. “In creating the MSC Yacht Club, we wanted to elevate that iconic space by providing something even more immersive, refined and connected to racing. With a great partner in MSC Cruises, we have curated an outstanding guest experience while staying true to the energy of Miami that makes our race so unique.” For MSC Cruises, the project represents a natural extension of its expanding global partnership with Formula 1. “MSC Cruises’ partnership with Formula 1 continues to grow and evolve, and the MSC Yacht Club at the Miami Grand Prix is a perfect expression of who we are as a brand – combining innovation, luxury hospitality and world-class experiences in one extraordinary setting,” said Suzanne Salas, EVP, Marketing, eCommerce & Sales for MSC Cruises. “Formula 1 represents the very best in performance, spectacle and international appeal, which makes this the perfect venue for MSC Cruises to offer fans the seamless blend of European style and American comfort guests enjoy onboard our ships. Miami is the Cruise Capital of the World and we’re incredibly proud to create something so iconic for fans and guests in our own backyard.” With its superyacht-scale design, curated dining by Bagatelle, and panoramic views of some of Formula 1’s most dramatic on-track action, the MSC Yacht Club positions the Miami Grand Prix firmly at the intersection of motorsport, luxury lifestyle, and experiential design. For 2026, Miami isn’t just hosting a race – it’s staging one of the most refined hospitality experiences Formula 1 has ever seen.

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 29, 2026

Pininfarina’s Take on Luxury Living on the Water

The ARKHAUS Villa 50, unveiled at the Miami International Boat Show 2026, feels like an attempt to rethink luxury living on the open waters. Rather than being considered a yacht in the traditional sense, the 50-foot floating residence is closer to architecture, designed to be lived in, not just visited for a weekend. It’s not speed or performance that make the Villa 50 impressive, but stability and usability. Instead of relying on anchors, the platform uses deployable spuds that lift and level the structure, reducing movement and providing a feeling closer to solid ground. It’s a small detail with great importance, especially for longer stays. The layout is designed to support everything from quiet mornings on the water to hosting friends without feeling like you’re constantly navigating around furniture or railings. The interior, developed in collaboration with Pininfarina, takes a similarly minimal approach. Known for shaping everything from sports cars to large-scale architecture, the Italian design house uses a light, architectural hand with this project. Glass surrounds the floating structure, creating a continuous connection and letting natural light characterize the space throughout the day. Materials balance durability with that at-home feel, and the layout encourages movement instead of compartmentalization. Stair placement and sightlines have been carefully considered, allowing the same space to shift easily from private living to a more social setup. At the Miami International Boat Show 2026, visitors can step aboard the current ARKHAUS while previewing renderings and materials that hint at where the Villa 50 is headed.

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 28, 2026

$30M Pagani Penthouses Come With a Utopia Hypercar

For most collectors, owning a Pagani is the ultimate goal. A few years back, though, Pagani raised the stakes by tying one of its most coveted hypercars to something even more rare, a pair of ultra-limited penthouses hovering above Biscayne Bay. At Pagani Residences in Miami’s North Bay Village, the two crown jewel duplex penthouses, priced at $30 million and $28.5 million, sit at the intersection of hypercar excellence and high-end real estate, offering not just a home, but a direct link into Pagani’s world. Occupying the 28th and 29th floors, the two penthouses are the largest and most exclusive residences in the 28-story tower. Penthouse 01 spans roughly 12,200 square feet, split between 7,000 square feet of interior space and expansive terraces totaling more than 5,200 square feet, while Penthouse 02 measures about 10,700 square feet overall. Both are laid out across two levels, with 13-foot ceilings, private elevators, and wide-open views over Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. Inside, the penthouses were personally curated by Horacio Pagani and the Pagani Arte team, with materials reserved exclusively for these two homes. Light oak chevron parquet floors with metal inlays, travertine stone surfaces, and sculptural staircases anchor the interiors, while Schiffini kitchens and penthouse-only Gaggenau appliances showcase the idea that nothing here is off-the-shelf. Even the wine storage, a 365-bottle wall designed specifically for the penthouses, feels squarely aimed at collectors who appreciate precision and presentation as much as indulgence. What truly separates these penthouses from any other luxury listing, however, is what comes with them. Each buyer is offered a bespoke Pagani Utopia Roadster “Miami Edition,” personally designed by Horacio Pagani. Finished in a unique blue inspired by Miami’s sea and sky, the car is exclusive to penthouse owners and unrepeatable. Buyers are also invited to Modena for a private Pagani Museo and Atelier experience, where they can meet Horacio Pagani and collaborate directly with the Pagani Arte team, mirroring the same client-driven process used when commissioning one of the marque’s hypercars. In a market crowded with amenities and headline prices, the Pagani Residences penthouses stand out for offering a hypercar that’s as rare as the view from the living room. duPont REGISTRY Realty Source: Pagani Residences

INEOS Unveils New 2026 Grenadier Black Edition

By Tyler Rampersaud – January 28, 2026

New 2026 INEOS Grenadier Black Edition Unveiled

The INEOS Grenadier is now in its third year of production, reimagining the concept of the classic, rugged off-roader as a timelessly designed and impressively capable all-terrain SUV. Since its introduction, the Grenadier has shown off amazing versatility, including the Quartermaster pickup variant, and the creations of INEOS’ new Arcane Works bespoke division. However, the 2026 model year means even more new developments for the celebrated model. The 2026 INEOS Grenadier features an enhanced steering setup, which includes a steering box with a variable ratio for the first time, further improving off-road performance. A tighter, firmer feel with better precision and more responsiveness means that the Grenadier boasts greater confidence in straight-line driving and better dynamic handling in sweeping curves. The turning circle has been reduced by roughly five percent, offering improved maneuverability overall. <- Gallery -> In addition, the 2026 model year sees the Grenadier get improved climate controls, as well as updated ADAS for improved safety and reduced distractions. However, one of the more exciting developments for the 2026 INEOS Grenadier is the addition of a new Black Edition. The Black Edition, based on the Fieldmaster trim, the Black Edition is available both for the wagon and the Quartermaster pickup. It features a dark aesthetic, Inky Black exterior paintwork, and a similarly dark interior. While it’s not limited in volume, it is limited in its production window. With added luxury, safety, and driving dynamics for the new model year, the 2026 INEOS Grenadier is given the celebrated new model an even brighter future. View All INEOS Grenadier For Sale Image Source: INEOS Automotive

Genesis Unveils New 1,100HP Off-Road X Skorpio Concept

By Tyler Rampersaud – January 28, 2026

New Genesis X Skorpio Concept Unveiled

A meteoric rise in the highly competitive luxury automotive world has seen Genesis go from one luxury sedan model to creating an array of luxury sedans and SUVs, with a performance lineup, Magma, coming to fruition, and a racing effort with sights set on victory at the 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans, all taking shape in just one decade. Known for its elegant design, sumptuous features, and luxury-focused engineering, the Genesis lineup has shown incredible potential to become even more diverse in the future. Various concept cars have envisioned future Genesis wagons, coupes, convertibles, and supercars, and now the latest concept from the manufacturer is an off-roader: the new X Skorpio. It’s not the first off-road concept from Genesis, as it sits alongside the GV60 Outdoors Concept, the GV70 Outdoors Concept, and the GV80 Desert Edition. However, its dramatic design, its positioning as an extreme, performance-oriented off-roader, and real-world performance proof set it apart. The name of the X Skorpio comes from its inspiration: a black scorpion known to survive in harsh, desolate environments like the Rub al Khali in the United Arab Emirates, where its real-world performance has been demonstrated. Features like a tubular frame, a full roll cage, and other solutions derived directly from off-road endurance racing make the X Skorpio a serious all-terrain performance machine. <- Gallery -> Using the scorpion as an inspiration wasn’t just an idea, either. The new Genesis X Skorpio Concept’s design is informed by the scorpion’s form, and its segmented panels are not only aesthetically inspired by a scorpion’s exoskeleton but also allow for efficient repairs in extreme off-roading. Despite being a high-performance vehicle, its interior is designed with luxury in mind. It uses materials like suede and features instrument displays on the steering wheel, and a display that slides to adapt to co-piloting and solo driving. Its V8 engine boasts an immense 1,100 horsepower and 850 lb/ft of torque, and the vehicle features beadlock wheels, 40-inch tires, Brembo Motorsport brakes, and a special suspension with high ground clearance for off-roading prowess. Tailored towards the culture and lifestyle of the Middle East, its driving demonstrations in the legendary Empty Quarter showcased the vehicle right at home in the challenging terrain. The X Skorpio Concept is part of a new era for Genesis’ concept car strategy, which will combine Genesis' signature design language of “Athletic Elegance” with three emotional aspects: Luxury, which highlights opulence and craftsmanship details, Sport, which highlights performance and driver-focused designs, and Cool, which focuses on lifestyle and self-expression. With a new concept showcasing formidable off-road performance and a new strategy for concept cars going forward, Genesis is going into its second decade with exciting ambitions. View All Genesis For Sale Image Source: Genesis

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 28, 2026

Remembering Peter Falk: A True Porsche Icon

There’s a particular kind of person who never treats their job as a phase or a stepping stone. They show up early, stay curious, and carry the same sense of responsibility decades later as they did on day one. Peter Falk was that kind of person. With his recent passing on January 23, 2026, at the age of 93, Porsche lost not just a former engineer and racing director, but one of the passionate constants who helped define what the brand became through consistency, patience, and a lifelong respect for the craft. Falk’s early life was shaped more by curiosity than by speed. The son of an archaeologist, he developed an appreciation for structure, detail, and history before ever stepping into motorsport. An apprenticeship as a car mechanic led him to study mechanical engineering in Stuttgart, where his focus on automotive tech turned fascination into new found career. Racing followed naturally, and at just 23 years old, Falk entered his first rally as a co-driver with Alfred Kling, securing a class victory and proving that his understanding of competition complemented his skill in engineering and theory. Those early results were about learning how machines, people, and pressure intersect. In 1959, Falk joined Porsche when the company’s vehicle testing department consisted of only ten people. It was a modest beginning, but one that placed him close to the heart of the brand’s evolution. By the mid-1960s, he was deeply involved in pre-development and race support, including work on the Porsche 911 as it transitioned from concept to reality. His role as co-driver alongside Herbert Linge at the 1965 Monte Carlo Rally marked the first international motorsport appearance for the 911. Over the following decades, Falk became a crucial part of shaping Porsche motorsport. He contributed to the development and success of legends like the 904 and 917, and later guided the brand through one of its most dominant eras as racing director in Group C. Under his leadership, Porsche secured seven overall victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, eleven world championship titles, and major wins at Daytona and the Paris-Dakar Rally. After retiring in 1993, Falk never fully stepped away. He remained closely connected to Porsche through its Heritage and Museum programs, offering a firsthand understanding of the brand’s most memorable moments. Those who worked with him say they remember a calm presence, a belief in teamwork over ego, and a subtle sense of humor that surfaced when it mattered most. Peter Falk’s legacy lives in the idea that lasting success comes from showing up, trusting your team, and caring deeply about the work, every single day.

Bentley Debuts The Supersports In Dubai With Travis Pastrana

By Tyler Rampersaud – January 27, 2026

Bentley Debuts New Supersports In Dubai

The Bentley Supersports is back, and it’s not just the latest iteration of Bentley’s dialed-in, performance-focused Continental; rather, it’s the most driver-focused Continental GT yet, with rear-wheel drive for the first time, an immensely powerful twin-turbo V8 without hybrid assist, and lightweight construction meant for optimal performance and dynamics. While the 500-example production run of the new Supersports is already sold out, Bentley is drumming up excitement for its new Supersports with a new film: “Supersports: FULL SEND.” It’s created in collaboration with legendary driver Travis Pastrana, who drives the car around Bentley’s Crewe, England headquarters and factory in a dazzling spectacle. Filmed in the style of the iconic “Gymkhana” videos, of which Pastrana recently released his last, the Crewe campus on Pyms Lane was turned into a “Pymkhana” course. An exclusive event in Dubai marks the debut of the new Supersports in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region for the manufacturer, and at the event, the modified “FULL SEND” car was driven into the event by Pastrana himself for a crowd of 400 VIP guests, including 100 Supersports customers. The ‘Daybreak’ launch car was also shown at the event, where the “FULL SEND” film premiered for the first time. The gardens of the former royal palace of Sheikha Sanaa Bint Mana Al Maktoum were open to guests, which are located on the Dubai shoreline, where they could see the Burj Al Arab, which was lit up in Bentley green, specifically for the debut. Ringing in a new era for Bentley performance, the new Supersports' debut in Dubai was a momentous occasion. View All Bentley Supersports For Sale <- Gallery -> Image Source: Bentley Motors

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 27, 2026

Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale 2026 Totals $195.2M in Sales

Every January, Arizona Car Week serves as a reset for the collector car market, and the 2026 Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction offered a clear glimpse at a promising future. Held January 17th to 25th at WestWorld of Scottsdale, the event marked the company’s 54th year and brought together 6,500 registered bidders competing for 1,911 no-reserve vehicles. When the final hammer fell, total sales surpassed $191 million, with every vehicle finding a buyer. Results reflected a market that remains engaged, informed, and willing to buy across a wide range of eras and price points. Top 10 Auction Sales • 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Coupe (Lot #1377) - $2,530,000• 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster (Lot #1378) - $1,870,000• 2019 McLaren Senna (Lot #1366) - $1,870,000• 2011 Ferrari 599 GTO (Lot #1381) - $1,622,500• 2021 McLaren Elva (Lot #1378.1) - $1,512,500• 2022 Ford GT ‘64 Heritage Edition (Lot #1382) - $1,237,500• 1966 Lincoln Continental Custom Convertible (Lot #1426) - $1,100,000• 2023 Porsche Brabus 900 Rocket R (Lot #1383) - $1,100,000• 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 “Big Tank” Split-Window Coupe (Lot #1379) - $1,100,000• 2022 Ford GT (Lot #1365) - $1,100,000 Much of the attention centered on Super Saturday, where both desirable blue-chip cars and modern collectibles shared the spotlight. A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Coupe sold for $2.53 million, supporting its long-standing status as one of the most important postwar collector cars. Nearby, a custom 1966 Lincoln Continental Convertible brought $1.1 million, a reminder that well-executed builds continue to resonate alongside factory-original examples. Charity sales remained a meaningful part of the week, led by a one-of-one 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X Stars & Steel Limited Edition that sold for $2.6 million, plus an additional donation. In total, nine vehicles raised $5.855 million for charitable causes, pushing Barrett-Jackson’s cumulative charity total past $170 million. Outside the auction lanes,The Rock The Block concert returned to open the week, while the Opening Night Gala and smaller invitation-only events provided space for collectors, builders, and industry figures to connect away from the noise of the block. Saturday’s Barrett-Jackson Cup Parade highlighted 50 custom vehicles, with a 1959 Chevy Impala earning Ultimate Best in Show and a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette receiving the People’s Choice Award. The presence of well-known designers, racers, musicians, and athletes added excitement to the event, but the focus remained squarely on the cars and the community. With upcoming auctions scheduled for Palm Beach, Columbus, and Las Vegas, Scottsdale once again served as a starting point, confirming that interest, participation, and confidence remain firmly in place as the year moves forward.

By Charles Bradley – January 26, 2026

A Singular Alfa Romeo Claims The Ultimate Concours Crown In Paris

In the rarefied world of concours d’elegance, where history, craftsmanship, and provenance converge, only one automobile each year earns the title of the very best. For 2026, that distinction belongs to a breathtaking 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B, newly crowned the winner of The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award, widely regarded as the most prestigious honor in the global collector car calendar. The award was presented on January 26 at The Peninsula Paris, during a glamorous, invitation-only ceremony attended by international tastemakers and cultural figures, including actress Nicole Kidman. Selected from an elite field of prior Best of Show winners from the world’s leading concours events, the Alfa Romeo emerged as the consensus choice among an influential panel of judges drawn from the highest tiers of automotive design, industry leadership, and collecting. Eligibility for the honor was secured after the car claimed Best of Show at The Amelia in 2025, cementing its reputation as one of the most significant prewar automobiles in existence. “I am thrilled and deeply honored to accept The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award,” said Deborah Keller on behalf of The Keller Collection, owner of the winning car. “This unique vehicle exemplifies the golden era of Italian automotive design and craftsmanship, and every time I see it, I am reminded why such magnificent automobiles deserve to be preserved and celebrated.” A Coachbuilt One-Off With Racing Royalty in Its DNA Introduced in 1937, the Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B is universally regarded as one of the fastest, most advanced, and most exclusive Italian cars of the late 1930s. While most examples were fitted with elegant Touring coachwork, this particular car stands alone. Its original owner was Giuseppe ‘Nino’ Farina, the legendary Italian racing driver who would later become Formula 1’s first World Champion in 1950. Farina commissioned a bespoke body that paid homage to his family’s deep roots in Italian automotive design, resulting in the only 8C 2900B ever clothed by Stabilimenti Farina, the renowned coachbuilder founded by his father in 1906. Adding another layer of historical significance, the design bears contributions from Farina’s uncle, Battista ‘Pinin’ Farina, one of the most influential automotive designers of the 20th century and the founder of Pininfarina. The result is a singular automobile that seamlessly blends racing pedigree, bespoke craftsmanship, and Italian design heritage. Restoration, Recognition, and a Life on the World Stage When acquired by its current custodians, the Alfa Romeo was in partially restored condition. A complete restoration was finalized in 1995, after which the car was shown at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance the same year. It then returned to Europe, where it appeared at several premier concours events and participated in the Monte-Carlo Rally, including a Parade of Elegance, which it won in front of the famed Hotel de Paris. “The winning 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B represents the pinnacle of prewar performance engineering,” said Christian Philippsen, co-founder of The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award. “It served as the fastest and most exclusive Italian automobile of its era, and we could not be more thrilled to recognise it as the best of the best.” Following its Paris triumph, the Alfa Romeo will be displayed at Rétromobile, the revered Paris-based classic car show, from January 28 to February 1, 2026, offering enthusiasts a rare opportunity to experience the award-winning car up close. An Elite Field and a Distinguished Jury The Alfa Romeo prevailed over six other extraordinary finalists, including a 1934 Alfa Romeo Tipo B, 1954 Ferrari 375 MM, 1996 Ferrari F50 GT, 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K Spezial Roadster, 1926 Rolls-Royce Phantom I, and 1951 Bentley Mark VI Cresta II. Founded in 2015 by The Hon. Sir Michael Kadoorie, The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award celebrates the preservation, restoration, and cultural importance of the world’s finest automobiles. Presented by The Peninsula Hotels, whose portfolio of landmark properties has defined luxury hospitality for nearly a century, the award stands as the ultimate recognition in the collector car world – where only the most exceptional automobiles are invited to compete, and just one earns the title of best of the best. Judging duties were handled by an illustrious panel that included Gordon Murray, Henry Ford III, and Fabio Filippini, alongside some of the world’s most prominent collectors and enthusiasts, including Jay Leno and several international royal figures. View Cars For Sale On duPont REGISTRY Images: Kahn Media

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 26, 2026

dR LIVE Latest Listings: Collector Icons Ending Soon

As the collector car auction space continues to evolve, dR LIVE continues to make a strong case for doing things a little differently—and doing them well. With a growing slate of high-quality cars and auctions ending soon, the platform’s entry into the live auction world feels less like a splashy experiment and more like a carefully considered shift. What really sets dR LIVE apart isn’t just the metal crossing the block, but the buyer-first approach behind it, highlighted by a rare 14-day return policy and a 100% sell-through rate. In a market where confidence and transparency matter more than ever, those differentiators signal a platform built for long-term trust, not short-term hype.That philosophy is reflected in the kinds of cars currently drawing attention. A 1999 Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R V-Spec, finished in a Midnight Purple wrap, taps directly into the growing demand for federally legal Japanese performance icons, combining motorsport pedigree with pop-culture gravity. On the air-cooled end of the spectrum, a 1996 RUF Turbo R brings serious credibility, offering factory-recognized RUF engineering, supercar-level performance, and the rarity collectors increasingly prioritize over badge alone. Both cars appeal to very different corners of the market, yet each fits squarely into dR LIVE’s curated, quality-over-quantity approach—cars that don’t need over-explaining to the right audience.Modern supercar collectors aren’t left out either. A low-mileage 2022 McLaren 765LT Spider with MSO options represents the high-water mark of internal combustion performance, open-top drama, and limited production desirability. It’s exactly the kind of car that benefits from dR LIVE’s structure: serious buyers, real-time bidding, and the added reassurance of post-sale flexibility. As more auctions wrap up and the sell-through streak continues, dR LIVE is quickly proving that its model works across eras, segments, and buyer profiles. For collectors watching auctions end soon, it’s a meaningful new player in the collector car auction world. Discover dR LIVE 1999 Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R V-Spec View Listing 1996 RUF Turbo R View Listing 2022 McLaren 765LT Spider View Listing

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