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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 – November 10, 2026

KTM X-BOW ARROW: $98,600 Luxury Side-by-Side With Audi Power

KTM X-BOW is taking its motorsports-bred engineering off the pavement with the ARROW, its first-ever side-by-side and an ambitious new entry into the premium off-road market. Combining an Audi-sourced turbocharged engine, rally-raid development and a fully enclosed cabin, the high-performance UTV brings sports-car thinking to a segment traditionally focused on utility. Reservations open Nov. 17, with pricing starting at $59,800. The launch will be led by the exclusive KTM X-BOW ARROW Black Limited Edition, restricted to 500 individually numbered vehicles worldwide. Starting at $98,600, it represents the highest specification of the new platform and will be offered through an exclusive reservation period before becoming available to private customers. A standard-production ARROW will follow, bringing the same performance-focused philosophy to a broader audience. The project draws on nearly 20 years of KTM X-BOW experience developing lightweight performance vehicles for the road and track, including the GT2, GT-XR, GT-XR SPYDER and GT-XR EVO. For the ARROW, that expertise is combined with components and engineering input informed by some of the world's most demanding off-road competitions, including the Dakar Rally. At its heart is Audi's EA888 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a seven-speed DSG transmission. The limited-edition launch models are targeting up to 330 horsepower, while the standard-spec flagship will deliver 280 horsepower. Front and rear limited-slip differentials are designed to support traction and performance, while the Black Limited Edition adds a hydraulic fly-off handbrake. The ARROW's premium character extends into its cabin. A fully enclosed cockpit, Sabelt premium seating and harness systems, and standard air conditioning on limited-edition models bring a more refined experience to off-road driving. The combination is intended to deliver competition-inspired capability without sacrificing occupant comfort. Underneath, the ARROW features a chromoly steel chassis, double wishbone suspension at all four wheels and a target of more than 23.6 inches of suspension travel. KW Reiger-developed shocks control suspension movement, with the chassis and suspension engineered around capability, control and durability. The development program has brought together KTM Components, which contributes off-road frame and chassis expertise developed through KTM's Dakar-winning racing programs, and Audi, building on its nearly two-decade relationship with KTM X-BOW. The project was also shaped by KTM X-BOW owner and Dakar competitor Guillaume de Mévius. His G RALLY TEAM/KTM X-BOW LAB TEAM, founded in 2018, served as a key testing and validation platform, drawing on experience in the Dakar Rally and FIA World Rally-Raid Championship. “I wanted to create the kind of vehicle I would want to drive myself, something with the precision and engineering of a performance car but built to attack terrain where a sports car simply cannot go,” said de Mévius. Development input also came from 23-year-old Dutch driver Puck Klaassen, a Dakar stage winner and KTM X-BOW ambassador. Her experience in rally-raid competition helped refine the vehicle's performance and driver feedback. Reservations for the KTM X-BOW ARROW open Nov. 17 through the dealer network and at www.ktm-xbow.com. Pricing starts at $59,800, rising to $98,600 for the 500-unit Black Limited Edition. Further specifications and availability details will be announced ahead of the market launch, with first deliveries expected in late 2027.

By Charles Bradley – November 02, 2026

Ringbrothers BILLIE: A 650-HP 1965 Pontiac GTO Reimagined

Ringbrothers has unveiled BILLIE, an extensively reimagined 1965 Pontiac GTO Convertible that brings together American muscle car heritage, contemporary engineering and more than 5,500 hours of meticulous craftsmanship. Originally built as a 1965 Pontiac Tempest Convertible, the custom creation has been transformed into a 650-horsepower interpretation of one of Pontiac's most recognizable models, with carefully refined proportions and a deeply personal story behind its name. The project began as a tribute to a GTO once owned by the client's mother, who received the original car as a gift. That family connection became the inspiration for a build designed to preserve the sentimental significance of the original while creating something entirely new. “BILLIE began as a tribute to a GTO once owned by our client's mother, who received the original car as a gift,” said Ringbrothers co-owner Mike Ring. “The owner wanted to recreate something that held real sentimental value, and during our early conversations, he suggested calling it GOAT. We came back with BILLIE, as in billy goat, and that moniker stuck. It's a playful nod to the GTO's heritage, but more, a deeply personal tribute to a car with a special place in his family's history.” The transformation involved extensive metalwork to widen the body by five inches while retaining the unmistakable silhouette of the 1965 GTO. Carbon-fiber doors, reshaped front fenders, widened rear quarters and lengthened rocker panels subtly alter the car's original proportions, creating a broader stance without losing its visual identity. The exterior is finished in custom BASF Glasurit “Billie Goat Blue,” complemented by polished chrome accents and contrasting black details. A bespoke carbon-fiber hood features an enlarged scoop, precision-machined billet-aluminum inserts and functional vents. Additional carbon-fiber components include the front wheel tubs, lower front valance and rear diffuser, which incorporates integrated exhaust ducts. Custom-made bumpers, redesigned headlight surrounds and a one-piece machined billet-aluminum taillight panel complete the exterior. The fabrication extends well beyond the visible bodywork, with extensive modifications to the floor, trunk, firewall and transmission tunnel. “The challenge was widening the body five inches without losing the proportions that make a '65 GTO so recognizable,” said Ringbrothers co-founder Jim Ring. “We spent countless hours massaging the factory lines, reshaping the fenders and refining how every panel transitions into the next. There's a massive amount of fabrication hidden beneath the subtle touches in the design. The goal was to make those changes feel completely natural and organic, as if Pontiac had built it this way.” Supercharged V8 Performance Beneath the custom bodywork, BILLIE trades the original car's mechanical configuration for a modern supercharged powertrain. A Wegner Motorsports 6.2-liter LT4 V8 produces 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque, paired with a Bowler Performance 10-speed automatic transmission. A custom Ringbrothers exhaust incorporates Flowmaster components, while a Roadster Shop FAST TRACK Stage III chassis provides the foundation for the car's modern driving dynamics. FOX coilovers and six-piston Brembo brakes further enhance suspension control and stopping performance. The combination rides on Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires mounted to staggered 19- and 20-inch HRE G-Code wheels, giving the GTO a contemporary performance specification beneath its classic American styling. Inside, BILLIE features a custom gray-and-blue leather interior that combines handcrafted finishes with modern technology. The dashboard has been repositioned four inches forward and two inches lower, creating a revised cabin layout complemented by custom-machined aluminum trim and Dakota Digital instrumentation. Vintage Air climate control and a Gentex auto-dimming rearview mirror bring contemporary comfort and convenience, while a restored factory radio conceals Bluetooth connectivity. Among the more distinctive details is an olive wood shifter inspired by an espresso portafilter, an unexpected handcrafted touch that reinforces the individuality of the commission. Custom “Billie 6.2 Liter” fender emblems and “Raised by Ringbrothers” dashboard badging provide further reminders of the build's identity and the team behind it. BILLIE represents more than 5,500 hours of design, fabrication and finishing work, bringing together the expertise of Ringbrothers and a network of specialist partners, including Gentex, HRE Wheels and BASF. “More than 5,500 hours went into bringing BILLIE to life, and the result speaks to the design and extraordinary craftsmanship of our team,” continued Jim Ring. “We're also grateful to our trusted partners, including Gentex, HRE Wheels and BASF, whose support and expertise helped make this remarkable build possible.” The project also highlights Ringbrothers' broader commitment to the Pontiac GTO platform. The company offers a range of GTO components, including billet-aluminum parts, steering wheels and side-marker lights, extending its craftsmanship beyond one-off commissions.

By duPont REGISTRY – October 29, 2026

duPont REGISTRY Group to Showcase Lineup of Supercars at Concours at Wynn Las Vegas

duPont REGISTRY Group (“DRG”), the leading AI-powered, digitally enabled platform for the high-end automotive lifestyle, today announced it will showcase a lineup of supercars at Concours at Wynn Las Vegas. Now in its fifth year, Concours at Wynn Las Vegas runs October 29 through November 1, 2026, on the greens of Wynn Golf Club. This year’s celebration marks DRG’s first time participating in the event. DRG’s participation reflects its commitment to bringing its ecosystem of content, commerce and community to life through exceptional automotive experiences. As the paramount platform for the luxury automotive lifestyle, DRG will display a lineup of exotic and supercar vehicles. These select vehicles include a 2020 Ferrari 488 Pista finished in rare Bianco Fuji with Grigio Silverstone racing stripes, and a 2023 Acura ARX-06, an IMSA sports prototype racing supercar. “Wynn has created an exceptional celebration of automotive excellence, bringing exotic cars and the collector community together in a setting worthy of both,” said Cristina Cheever, Chief Marketing Officer of duPont REGISTRY Group. “We’re delighted to participate and share the breadth of our ecosystem. From editorial content and digital marketplaces to financing and curated experiences, we are transforming how collectors and enthusiasts buy, sell and finance vehicles. With duPont REGISTRY Finance, we offer financing and leasing built for exceptional cars, including dedicated collector car financing that lets owners unlock the value of their collections.” DRG is committed to celebrating the passion of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide where they already gather. At the event, DRG will also present the duPont REGISTRY Editor’s Choice Award. The accolade recognizes standout vehicles for exceptional design, craftsmanship and technical innovation. In addition, attendees can meet the DRG team and discover the platform’s full breadth of offerings that enhance the luxury automotive ownership journey. They can also learn more about DRG’s digital marketplaces, including dRew, DRG’s recently debuted AI concierge, and its premium leasing and financing solutions from duPont REGISTRY Finance. Concours at Wynn Las Vegas is the first in a series of upcoming DRG events. For additional details, visit www.dupontregistrygroup.com. About duPont REGISTRY Group duPont REGISTRY Group (DRG) is the leading AI-powered, digitally enabled platform for the high-end automotive lifestyle, encompassing its content, community and commerce. Using data insights and advanced technology to build a seamless and scalable digital marketplace, DRG facilitates engagement of enthusiasts and collectors within the luxury automotive world, listing 279,000 cars with a total listing value of $33 billion as of June 30, 2026. Its integrated ecosystem unites premium content, a seamless digital platform and more than 120 immersive events that attract nearly 120,000 attendees globally. By combining cutting-edge technology with vast vehicle access, DRG aims to redefine how enthusiasts connect and transact. For more than 40 years, DRG has been a trusted source. Media Contact ICR for duPont REGISTRY GroupduPont@icrinc.com

By Tyler Rampersaud – October 27, 2026

KTM Reveals New X-BOW GT-XA For America

KTM X-BOW has spent nearly 20 years creating ultra-lightweight racing and road supercars, combining robust power with precise engineering, and just as much weight as is necessary. The Austrian manufacturer has brought its GT models stateside for racing, but the domestic market has yet to see a roadgoing KTM X-BOW until now. Thanks to a partnership with Carbon Yard, KTM X-BOW has announced the new GT-XA, a variant of the supercar that is made to be road-going in the United States. Racing is the origin of KTM X-BOW, and the new GT-XA supercar promises to bring the racing-bred DNA of the car to roads in the States, including its iconic carbon fiber monocoque, aggressive aerodynamics, and a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine from Audi. The GT-XA features a “Jetfighter Canopy,” forgoing doors for an electric canopy that closes over the driver, not only contributing visual drama and occasion, but also contributing to a stronger carbon fiber structure for the vehicle. Meanwhile, the five-cylinder engine is mated with a dual-clutch transmission, delivering an exceptional power-to-weight ratio for driving that is both thrilling and precise. Each example of the new KTM X-BOW GT-XA is set to be built in Graz, Austria, with bespoke configuration available for each owner. An initial run of just 30 examples is planned, including visits to the home of KTM X-BOW in Austria, driving experiences at Red Bull Ring, and more. <- Gallery -> Exclusively set for the American market, buyers can secure one of the 30 allocations for the new KTM X-BOW GT-XA with a fully refundable $50,000 reservation. Pending street-legal approval, the full price of the GT-XA is slated to be $490,000 or under, and buyers will be able to choose a production number. Deliveries are planned for 2027, bringing KTM X-BOW’s racing-bred thrill to American roads for the first time. View All Exotic Cars For Sale Image Source: KTM X-BOW

By duPont REGISTRY – October 27, 2026

duPont REGISTRY Group Announces Strategic Investment from Cardinale Family Office

duPont REGISTRY Group (“DRG”), the leading AI-powered, digitally enabled platform for the high-end automotive lifestyle, today announced a strategic investment from the Cardinale Family Office. This strategic investment underscores the group’s commitment to cultivating a seamless and reliable ecosystem where enthusiasts and collectors can effortlessly buy, finance, sell and immerse themselves in their passion for automobiles. DRG believes this move is a testament to the exceptional value of DRG’s global client and collector car database and the robust appeal of the group’s renowned brand whose reputation as a trusted source for luxury and exotic vehicles spans over 40 years. “As a car collector and enthusiast, my family and I always believed duPont REGISTRY is the most trusted brand in the luxury and exotic car industry,” said James Cardinale-McKinnon, Trustee and President of Rally Point East and Superior Motors North Fork. “What Antoine and his team built using technology, proprietary data and AI transforms how clients transact, finance and engage with luxury and exotic cars.” “We are excited and proud to add James and his family as investors. James’ passion and knowledge will be a great addition to our existing group of incredible investors,” said Antoine Tessier, CEO of duPont REGISTRY Group. About duPont REGISTRY Group duPont REGISTRY Group (DRG) is the leading AI-powered, digitally enabled platform for the high-end automotive lifestyle, encompassing its content, community and commerce. Using data insights and advanced technology to build a seamless and scalable digital marketplace, DRG facilitates engagement of enthusiasts and collectors within the luxury automotive world, listing 279,000 cars with a total listing value of $33 billion as of June 30, 2026. Its integrated ecosystem unites premium content, a seamless digital platform and more than 120 immersive events that attract nearly 120,000 attendees globally. By combining cutting-edge technology with vast vehicle access, DRG aims to redefine how enthusiasts connect and transact. For more than 40 years, DRG has been a trusted source. About Rally Point East Located in the heart of the Hamptons, Rally Point East is an exclusive, private members’ club built around a shared passion for automotive culture, offering a curated environment for collectors to store vehicles, socialize, and attend premier lifestyle events. Media Contact ICR for duPont REGISTRY Group duPont@icrinc.com

By Khris Bharath – October 04, 2026

McLaren Senna Leads Weekly Results as Carrera GT Nears Close and Rimac Nevera Debuts on duPont REGISTRY Live

As September comes to a close, 16 cars closed this past week on duPont REGISTRY Live, including one Flash Sale and three results above $600,000. A McLaren, two Ferraris, and two Porsches provided the headline results. The spectacular and highly diverse Hale Collection, made up of everything from vintage automobiles like a 1931 Ford Model A and classics to modern exotics, concluded 9 of its consignments, with the collection’s first-gen Ford GT claiming the platform's highest result for the model. Looking ahead, 17 cars are currently open for bidding, and Guard’s Porsche Carrera GT, currently leading, is entering its final 48 hours; the platform's first Rimac Nevera has just opened with a Koenigsegg Regera, also making its brand debut on dR Live for the Swedish marque, set to join the docket soon. Lots Closed: Highlights Leading the results this week is a 2019 McLaren Senna finished in Factory MSO Blue Carbon with contrasting silver highlights and only 826 miles, which hammered at $2,703,750 including buyer's premium. Featuring over $170,000 in MSO options, including MSO Bespoke Blue, which on its own cost $108,786, the Senna delivered one of the week's standout results on dR Live. Against an original window sticker of $1,130,621, the result represents a 139.14% increase from new and sits 7.06% above the model's current duPont REGISTRY Index (dRi) value of $2,525,456. #347 of the 500 examples hand-assembled in Woking, England, this unique specification combines three attributes associated with top-tier Senna valuations: ultra-low mileage, an MSO exposed-carbon finish, and documented U.S. delivery. A Rosso Corsa 2009 Ferrari 430 Scuderia coupe with VIP Book hammered at $702,450*. Values of standard Scuderia coupes have been on the uptick, with several examples on dR Live closing over $700k. The rarer 16M variant, limited to just 499 units worldwide, has been clearing close to $1 million across multiple auction platforms. Back in August, a 16M Spider achieved $994,350* on dR Live. While the Scuderia was only offered with the F1-transmission, factory manual-equipped variants remain the scarcest configuration within the 430 range, and that hierarchy continues to remain a key parameter driving values. A PTS Bahama Yellow 2024 Porsche 992 GT3 RS Weissach with just 91 miles hammered at $564,900*, a substantial premium over its original sticker price of $320,110, consistent with where delivery-mileage, well-specified 992 GT3 RS examples have been trading in 2026. While the Weissach Package cost $33,520, notably, the PTS color on its own was $20,960. Representing the air-cooled era, a 1979 Porsche 911 SC in Mocha Brown from the Hale Collection hammered at $93,450*. The Hale Collection concluded 9 of its consignments, led by a single-owner 2006 Ford GT with 3,915 miles hammered at $672,000*, landing within range of recent results witnessed at Mecum Nashville and Bring a Trailer. The result for this Tungsten Gray example also surpasses the $612,150* achieved for the 1-of-2 Speed Yellow Stripe Delete example to become the highest Gen-1 Ford GT on the platform. The 2017 Dodge Viper ACR Extreme with 1,368 miles hammered at $449,400*, close to the $500,000-plus territory where sub-1,000-mile ACR Extremes have been trading in 2026, with mileage being one of the primary differentiating factors. Onto the classics and the 1965 Kirkham AC Cobra 289 FIA hammered at $108,675*, the 1967 Sunbeam Tiger at $105,000*, the 1966 C2 Corvette frame-off at $87,150*, the 1997 BMW M3 Sedan at $67,200*, the 1931 Ford Model A, dR Live’s first ever vintage car, at $53,025*, and the 1973 Triumph GT-6 Mark III at $22,895* completed the collection's closed results. Separately, a 2025 Cadillac Escalade V ESV hammered at $147,525*in this week’s 1-hour dR Drop. Upcoming Lots: Highlights <- Gallery -> All eyes are now on the single-owner Guards Red 2005 Porsche Carrera GT with 5,600 miles and its evocative V10 engine, currently bid to $3,000,000, leading the current docket and entering its final day. The 1,900+ horsepower 2024 Rimac Nevera specified by the Hamilton Collection is bid to $851,000 with 5 days remaining. As the platform's first Rimac consignment, this astonishingly quick all-electric hypercar marks a significant moment for electrified performance on dR Live. Staying with the hypercars we spotlighted in our limited-run supercars preview, a Bianco Avus 2017 Ferrari F12 TDF Atelier with roughly 1,600 miles is bid to $1,101,000 with 4 days remaining. Other Ferraris currently open for bidding include a 2008 Ferrari 430 Scuderia in Nero with Alcantara upholstery and factory stripe is at $449,888 with 2 days remaining. A Rosso Scuderia 2004 Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale with full PPF is at $383,888 with 4 days remaining. A Rosso Corsa 2005 Ferrari F430 Spider with 5,461 miles and a VIP Book is at $99,999 with 2 days remaining, while a 2003 Ferrari 360 Spider with the highly desirable factory gated manual and Daytona seats is just listed at $11,500 with 9 days left. A 1990 Ferrari 348 TS Targa also with a factory gated manual, featured on our recent feature about Ferrari's mid-engine evolution, is at $55,500 with 2 days remaining. On to more analog heavyweights, and a Giallo Orion 2006 Lamborghini Murciélago upgraded with the desirable gated manual transmission by EAG was just listed with 10 days remaining, while a 2008 Porsche 911 Turbo Cab with a six-speed manual, currently bid to $104,500, closing in two days. A 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG finished in Alubeam Silver s with just 196 miles, and the iconic gullwing door is just listed at $215,000 with 10 days remaining. From GM, a 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 with 2,800 miles from a single owner is at $95,000, while a 2026 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing with the 6-speed manual and Deep Ocean Package is at $104,000 with 4 days remaining. The final Hale Collection consignments, all classics, remain open: the Twin Paxton Supercharged 1966 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 at $51,000 with 4 days remaining, the 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air in India Ivory and Harvest Gold at $37,000 with 3 days remaining, and the 1978 Triumph Spitfire 1500 with a removable hardtop at $3,500 with 2 days left, wrapping up our highlights. View All Lots on duPont REGISTRY Live If you're interested in financing any other exotic car, be sure to get pre-qualified. *** A 5% Buyer's Premium applies to all lots. A hammered result confirms that an auction has ended and does not represent a completed transaction. All sales are subject to duPont REGISTRY Live's 14-Day Return Policy and standard purchase and sale terms.

By Michael Van Runkle – October 02, 2026

Rolls-Royce Opens World’s First “Black Badge Lounge” in Beverly Hills

Just off Rodeo Drive, in the heart of Beverly Hills last night, Rolls-Royce held an exclusive opening for a new dealership featuring the world’s first “Black Badge Lounge.” The Great Gatsby-themed soiree within a tastefully updated studio featured live music, flapper dancers, champagne towers, and Dalmore 17 scotch whisky cocktails, giving loyal customers and media a chance to experience the showroom floor, visit the speakeasy in the rear, and then venture upstairs to the “Black Badge Atelier” that offers a private escape for speccing highly personalized Rolls-Royce motorcars. The crisp white walls with contrasting vertical bars so reminiscent of Rolls-Royce’s iconic front grilles perfectly mirrored a 1925 Phantom “Round Door” that the nearby Petersen Automotive Museum kindly contributed to the evening’s festivities. This first-generation Phantom received custom coachwork in 1934 from Jonckheere, in Belgium, and retrospectively represents the first iteration of the Black Badge ethos that Rolls-Royce brought to life officially in 2016. Parked diagonally across the showroom floor, a Spectre Series II embodied the very opposite end of the spectrum, with a fully electric powertrain that proves exactly how well prodigious silent power matches the modern luxury experience – especially in Black Badge form. “Black Badge has always been about a different side of Rolls-Royce,” Director of Sales & Brand Julian Jenkins told duPont REGISTRY. “One that is bolder, more contemporary, and a little unexpected. After ten years, it felt like the right moment to give that spirit a home of its own.” The new Beverly Hills dealership will operate as part of the broader O’Gara Coachgroup, at the heart of Los Angeleno car culture with showrooms full of McLaren, Bugatti, Koenigsegg, Pininfarina, Aston Martin, Lamborghini, and Rimac nearby. Tom O’Gara himself greeted customers and friends at the opening, before handing the microphone over to a jazz ensemble. As the music played, guests circled through the Black Badge Lounge to an outdoor area where a team of torcedores hand-rolled cigars. Upstairs in the Atelier, out of sight from the main floor and bar, a private experience for speccing and customizing Rolls-Royces hinted at the nearly countless options available for sumptuous leathers, plush high-pile carpets, contrast stitching threads, and more – all rendered digitally in real time on a large screen to complete the immersive experience. “The Atelier lets people step into the Black Badge world, more than just seeing it in a motorcar,” Jenkins continued. “It doesn’t feel like a conventional showroom, it’s a more relaxed, considered environment in which clients may spend time, explore ideas, and begin to imagine something entirely their own. Of course, we are consistently seeing ever greater interest in personalization and one-off creations, and the Atelier offers a more engaging and inspiring way for clients to begin that commissioning journey.” The new dealership drew a healthy showing from across the broader Los Angeles cityscape, especially the next generation of luxury consumers emerging out of the tech industry, social media, and creative fields. As the initial introduction for new customers, or reestablishing a familiar foundation for existing owners, the world’s first Black Badge Lounge aims to create a level of direct engagement that sets the proper tone for ownership of the world’s finest motorcars. IMAGES COURTESY OF ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS & MICHAEL ROACH

By duPont REGISTRY – September 28, 2026

Learning How To Race With Skip Barber

Located directly in the middle of the Sunshine State, Sebring, Florida, is a charming town on a lake, but to the automotive world, Sebring is home to one of the world’s most respected and historic racing venues. Originally an airfield, Sebring International Raceway is known for its bumpy concrete surface that still uses World War II-era landing strips, which is why Sebring has been, for decades, a challenging and renowned venue for racers of all calibers. Its most well-known event is the 12 Hours of Sebring, which is a staple on the annual sports car racing calendar. We had to be at Sebring early on a Monday morning, arriving at the circuit just after sunrise, with dew still on the grass. We were there for a one-day Skip Barber Racing School, one of many that the school hosts across the country. While we were there for only one day, many of our classmates were only at the beginning of their racing journeys, as the Monday we were there was only the start of a three-day program that dives even deeper into motorsport driving technique. Our day started with a classroom session, and our instructor was a legend with decades of experience in racing and educating drivers: Terry Earwood. His own motorsport career is full of accolades, including being inducted into multiple halls of fame and having several endurance and drag racing titles.Teaching a curriculum that has been perfected across decades and was originally taught for the Georgia State Police, Earwood’s instruction breaks driving down to its most basic physical principles. We learned how weight distribution, grip limits, contact patches, and throttle/brake application each affected the car. The goal was for us to translate those concepts into confidently maneuvering our cars around the track. The cars we would be driving on-track are modified fifth-generation Ford Mustang GT coupes, but first, we got behind the wheel of road-legal sedans. While not nearly as brawny as a sports car, or the Formula 4 cars some of the other students would be driving, our midsize sedans were meant for a cone course. Helping us test the limits of grip, throttle, and braking for corners, one cone, located at the inside of a turn, was affectionately nicknamed “Muffy” by Earwood. Our goal was to make sure we carried as much speed as we could through the turn, while getting the car as close to Muffy as possible. Another exercise saw us driving a Toyota Camry with one odd wheel around a drift circle. That wheel had a plastic disc around the tire, which helped the tail loosen to simulate sudden oversteer. In case it happened on the track, this experience would help us mitigate the situation.Once everyone became more comfortable with the fundamentals, using their eyes to look through the corner, smoothly applying throttle at the apex, and knowing how to safely recover from understeer, it was time to suit up and head out to the track. A quick walkthrough on the fifth-generation Mustang gave everyone a small taste of what to expect when taking off from pit lane, including a full breakdown of all the performance and safety upgrades and a hands-on demonstration of the four-point harness system. The Mustangs have been retrofitted and upgraded by Skip Barber’s team to now include suspension components from Eibach, a Kooks Headers and Exhaust system, an engine tune courtesy of HP Tuners, an upgraded transmission from TREMEC, and the latest BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A tires fitted underneath it all.Our group included everyone from complete beginners to experienced weekend track drivers, but the instructors made patience and safety the priority, ensuring everyone felt confident and comfortable before firing up the engines. As the first groups headed out, we climbed into the pace cars with our instructors, who guided us through the circuit corner by corner, explaining the ideal racing line and where to brake, turn in, and get back on the throttle. It not only served as a demonstration, but also a testament to the skills of our instructors as they outpaced lightweight open-wheel cars and larger V8s with expert cornering and pedal management alone. Finally, it was our turn to climb into the driver's seat, and to be honest, I felt a little overwhelmed trying to remember everything we'd learned throughout the day. As we started our inaugural lap of the already-legendary Sebring International Raceway, everything became calmer and clearer, following the pace car at a manageable speed and distance, talking myself through each turn with the confidence instilled by Terry’s classroom talk and the exercises earlier that morning. Before we knew it, Tyler and I were lapping Sebring like pros, downshifting through the corners, racing down the straights, and passing by each other like it was a 12-hour endurance race.With some time to decompress and debrief before our second session, we caught up with Terry to talk through our experiences so far and where we could improve behind the wheel. By the time we headed back out, everything felt much more natural. The second 30-minute session gave us the confidence to focus on cleaning up our mistakes, carrying more speed through corners, and gradually shaving time off each lap. Only spending the day with the group, Skip Barber Racing surprised us with an extra third track session while the rest of the class was being briefed on their upcoming days. Needless to say, it was the perfect ending to the day, spending our final moments at Sebring International Raceway chasing the sunset and shifting gears. Before setting off on our drive back to Saint Petersburg, FL, Terry presented the two of us with our official Skip Barber Racing School Certificate of Graduation, along with a gift bag from the school sponsors. It also gave us the time to really thank Terry and the entire team for their hospitality, knowledge, and patience throughout the day. Having started as two students with little to no track time experience, Skip Barber Racing School gave us the tools and confidence to take to any track. Discover Skip Barber Racing School

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 04, 2026

Titanium Takes Center Stage for Bvlgari’s at Geneva Watch Days

Geneva Watch Days has once again proved why it remains one of the most anticipated weeks on the watch calendar, with independent watchmakers and major brands bringing out months, sometimes years, of work and offering a look at where the industry is heading next. From motorsport-inspired skeletons to complex commemorative tourbillons, this year’s releases have covered just about every corner of modern watchmaking. Bvlgari is adding its own chapter to the mix with three new creations that have one very specific thing in common: titanium. The lightweight metal has long had a place in watchmaking, particularly in pieces where performance and everyday comfort take center stage. Bvlgari, however, is approaching it from a few different angles. The Octo Finissimo Dual Time x Vianney Halter combines Bvlgari’s in-house expertise with the mechanical creativity of the independent watchmaker, marking the first time the two have collaborated directly on a movement. The Octo Finissimo Dazzle takes a more artistic route, using laser engraving to transform the titanium case into an almost hypnotic optical illusion. Then there’s the Bvlgari Titanio, which brings the material into the Aluminium collection for a lighter, more everyday take. Three watches, three very different personalities, and a pretty good demonstration of just how much can be done with a material that’s usually looked at simply for being light. Octo Finissimo Dual Time × Vianney Halter Bvlgari is venturing into new territory with the Octo Finissimo Dual Time × Vianney Halter, marking the first time an independent watchmaker has collaborated directly with the collection. The pairing brings together the Octo Finissimo’s Italian design DNA with Halter’s retro-futuristic approach to watchmaking. The collaboration comes in two limited editions: 30 pieces in brushed titanium and just 15 in polished satin pink gold. Both feature the Octo Finissimo’s 40.5mm case and ultra-thin proportions while introducing four individual opaline dials, blue hands, a red arrow seconds hand, and Halter’s signature on the rotor. Behind it all is Bvlgari’s new BVF 200 automatic movement with a micro-rotor, 60-hour power reserve, and dedicated modules for GMT, date, and day/night indications. It’s an impressive amount of mechanical work packed into one watch. Octo Finissimo Dazzle The Octo Finissimo has never been shy about pushing the boundaries of what a watch can look like, but the new Octo Finissimo Dazzle takes that idea to a whole new level. Crafted from a 40mm titanium case, the watch is covered in a geometric pattern designed to play games with your eyes, essentially camouflaging the silhouette that makes the Octo Finissimo so recognizable. At certain angles, the case, dial, and integrated bracelet almost seem to disappear into one continuous pattern. The inspiration comes from an unlikely place: automotive camouflage. Just as manufacturers use fragmented patterns to disguise a prototype during testing, Bvlgari uses laser engraving to disrupt the Octo Finissimo’s styling. The pattern is etched directly into the titanium using a technique mastered in-house, something too difficult to do by hand. It’s an interesting twist on the idea of dial legibility, too. Instead of making the time easier to read, the Dazzle deliberately lets the design completely take over. Titanio Bvlgari is giving its Aluminium collection a new direction with the Titanio, trading aluminum for grade 5 titanium while keeping the combination of rubber and the collection’s Italian design intact. It’s familiar at first glance, but noticeably more contemporary on the wrist. The new Titanio comes in two versions, a GMT and a Chronograph. The 40 mm GMT keeps things clean and understated, with a black-and-gray dial, 24-hour display, and Bvlgari’s automatic B192 movement offering 50 hours of power reserve. The 41 mm Chronograph takes a slightly sportier approach, pairing its brushed titanium case with a redesigned chronograph layout and tachymetric scale, powered by the automatic B381 calibre. Together, the two watches show how much room there is to evolve the Aluminium formula without losing what made it work in the first place. Source: BVLGARI

By Tyler Rampersaud – September 04, 2026

Jensen Unveils New Track-Only GTX Prototype

Jensen has been teasing its return to the automotive landscape for some time now, reviving its legendary Interceptor nameplate with a new lineup of grand tourers that modernize the original’s iconic silhouette and performance character. Recently, the Interceptor GTX name was confirmed by the brand, and the car bearing that name has now been revealed. It’s a track-only prototype that previews the future Jensen lineup of road-going grand tourers, and it features a front-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive, and immense power, the same formula that made Jensen’s original vehicles cherished. The new Interceptor GTX, described as an “enhanced prototype,” features a 960-horsepower V8 engine, a handcrafted aluminum body whose silhouette echoes the original Interceptor, several carbon fiber aerodynamic components, a six-speed sequential transmission, and several other motorsport-ready features and components. The new Jensen Interceptor GTX is, according to the manufacturer, a statement of intent, as well as an engineering and development template for future Jensen models, including other Interceptor variants like the GTR, a street-legal version of the GTX, and the GT, which will be optimized for grand touring. A clean-sheet design that pays homage to the original Interceptor and its legacy, the new Jensen Interceptor GTX features several components that are production-ready, showcasing an engineering and manufacturing capability from Jensen that is ready to enter the highly competitive performance car arena. <- Gallery -> About the new Interceptor GTX, Jensen International Managing Director, David Duerden, commented, “We chose to begin with the track-focused GTX because it is the clearest first expression of the new Jensen programme. It allows us to prove the engineering, design direction and specialist supplier base behind the car, while giving prospective customers something tangible and fully functional to experience. The road-going models that will follow have been conceived as part of the same development path. The GTX is the first physical variant of that programme, not a separate exercise. Around 80 per cent of its exterior form, including key body panels and associated tooling, is intended to carry through to the eventual road-going car range.” With its first prototype showcasing impressive track-only performance, the new Jensen Interceptor GTX is a dramatic first act of the upcoming revival of the iconic marque. View All Jensen Interceptor For Sale Image Source: Jensen International

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