RM ENJOYS STRONG RESULTS IN THE AUCTION ROOM AND ON THE SHOW FIELD AT AMELIA ISLAND

Photo caption –  Top-seller: the one-off 1929 Cord L-29 Hayes Coupe (credit: Darin Schnabel © 2012 courtesy RM Auctions)

RM Auctions, the official auction house of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, continued its strong track record in Northern Florida this weekend, generating more than $23 million in sales before a packed house at its well-established sale at the Ritz-Carlton. The 88 percent sell through rate saw 92 of the 106 pre- and post-war motor cars changing hands, with six automobiles achieving million-dollar-plus results and spirited bidding leading to the establishment of numerous new auction records.

Top honors went to a stunning 1929 Cord L-29 Special Coupe by The Hayes Body Corporation – a stunning, one-off design statement by Count Alexis de Sakhnoffsky, widely recognized as the most significant L-29 in existence. An outstanding example of Classic Era styling, the ‘Hayes Coupe’ garnered strong attention from bidders in the room and on the phones, selling for an impressive $2,420,000 to applause from the crowd.

“This year’s Amelia Island weekend was once again a great success for the RM team with over $23 million in sales and more accolades for RM Auto Restoration. We’re very pleased with the results achieved both in the auction room and on the show field, as well as the strong global interest in the sale – bidders hailed from 16 countries around the world,” said Rob Myers, Chairman & Founder, RM Auctions.

Myers added, “The Amelia sale wrapped up a fantastic two weeks in Florida for RM, including the recent Milhous Collection sale presented in association with Sotheby’s. Combined, the events generated more than $61 million in sales, illustrating the continued strength of the collectibles hobby. We look forward to building on the strong results at our next sale in Monaco in May.”

In addition to the sale-topping Cord L-29, also hotly contested at Saturday’s auction was a highly desirable and extremely rare 1965 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage Convertible, one of the seven original Vantage-powered DB5 Convertibles produced. Spurring a lively bidding war, the DB5 realized an impressive $1,210,000, smashing the previous record for a DB5 Convertible sold at auction. A freshly restored1960 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster also entered the history books, selling for $990,000 – a world record price for a 300SL Roadster sold at auction.

Continuing RM’s strong track record for Ferrari sales at Amelia, examples from the Modenese Prancing Horse also performed well. Headlining the group of nine examples on offer was the exceptional, ex-Agnelli Family 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Coupe Speciale, one of just four built, selling for $1,430,000, while a distinctively sporty 1973 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS “Chairs and Flares” achieved a record-setting $363,000. Additional notable Ferrari sales included a superb 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spyder for $1,210,000 and a rare, unique covered headlight 1961 Ferrari 250 GT Series II Cabriolet for $770,000.

RM Amelia Island Million-Dollar-Plus Sales:

Lot 132 – 1929 Cord L-29 Special Coupe                                    $2,420,000

Lot 141 – 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Coupe Speciale                            $1,430,000

Lot 152 – 1965 Aston Martin DB5 Vantage Convertible                $1,210,000

Lot 173 – 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spyder                      $1,210,000

Lot 183 – 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 Berlinetta                                 $1,100,000

Lot 178 – 1930 Bugatti Type 46 Superprofile Coupe                    $1,017,500

Beyond the automobiles and a select series of collectible motorcycles featured in the RM catalogue, the Amelia sale also lifted the gavel on one of only three known complete Lalique Mascot Collections, headlined by the rarest Lalique of all, Le Renard (The Fox), for $805,000. The offering was rounded out by a Ferrari 250 GTO Bronze Sculpture which sold for $23,000 and an Ultimate Bugatti Ride & Drive Experience, presented by the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance and Bugatti Automobiles of The Americas, for $10,350, both benefitting the Spina Bifida Association of Jacksonville. Also supporting a wonderful cause, a 1963 Alfa Romeo 2600 Spider which achieved $60,500 with proceeds going to The National Road Safety Foundation, Inc – a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing crashes, death and disability on US roads.

RM’s strong sales results were complemented by success on the show field at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance on Sunday with a number of award-winning entries having passed through RM Auto Restoration’s doors, cementing the company’s reputation as the world’s premier restoration facility for vintage automobiles. Among those receiving accolades were the majestic 1931 Duesenberg Model J Derham Tourster, owned by Judge Joseph Cassini III and Margie Cassini of West Orange, New Jersey which was judged ‘Best in Class’; and the elegant 1938 Jaguar SS Graber Coupe, owned by Frank and Milli Ricciardelli of Monmount Beach, New Jersey, which received a Special Amelia Award.

RM continues its 2012 auction calendar, May 11 – 12 with the return of its biennial Monaco sale at the Grimaldi Forum. Held during the same weekend as the Grand Prix Historique de Monaco, the two-day sale will lift the gavel on an elite, handpicked selection of blue-chip automobiles, joined by the acclaimed Saltarelli Collection, one of the world’s most significant private Ducati Collections.

RM returns to North America, June 8 – 9 with the presentation of the Dingman Collection 2012, a continuation of the company’s highly successful 2006 Dingman sale of Ford motor cars and rare, desirable automotive signs. In the meantime, the excitement continues in Florida this week as RM’s subsidiary company, Auctions America by RM, presents the 10th annual Collector Cars of Fort Lauderdale sale, March 16 – 18 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale / Broward County Convention Center.

Further information on upcoming events, along with full results on RM’s Amelia Island are available online at www.rmauctions.com. For further information on Auctions America by RM’s Fort Lauderdale sale visit www.auctionsamerica.com.

Source: Text-RM Auctions Press Release, Photo Gallery-LuxuryAutoDirect

Amelia Island Concours Reunites 12 Ferrari GTO’s

The Ferrari GTO has become an automotive icon.So when we heard that Amelia Island were going to feature 12 GTO’s in one location, we started counting down the days. Enjoy the photos! It was a truly special event.

Lamborghini Aventador J Roadster Concept Debuts at Geneva Motor Show

At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, Automobili Lamborghini is presenting the most uncompromising open super sports car of its entire history. The Lamborghini Aventador J is a force of nature on wheels – supremely powerful and supremely open. The Aventador J offers its pilot and co-pilot an utterly indescribable experience of power and dynamics. At the same time, the 515 kW / 700 hp two-seater is a first class technology showcase, combining innovative solutions and brand new materials. Demonstrating Automobili Lamborghini’s enormous expertise in carbon fiber technology.

The Lamborghini Aventador J is a radically open automobile – exterior and interior meld into each other. The designers and engineers in Sant’Agata Bolognese have not only dispensed entirely with the roof, but also with the front windshield. This requires that drivers of the Aventador J must have the right equipment for driving at top speeds higher than 300 Km/h.

This kind of driving at the limit is a highly exclusive experience – the Lamborghini Aventador J is fully functional for road use. It is an absolute one-off: as a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

“With the Lamborghini Aventador J, we have molded our brand DNA into its most definitive form to-date. This automobile is as extreme and as uncompromising as only a Lamborghini can be,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “The new
Lamborghini Aventador J is the most radical open supersports car of Lamborghini’s history. Its name comes from our tradition and combines an unconventional design with technology innovation. Nowadays we are confronted with several regulations that we face in the spirit of challenge. The Aventador J is the proof that, despite the rules, Lamborghini will
always make people dream, even in the future.”

Continuation of a glorious tradition

With the Aventador J, technically based on the Aventador, Automobili Lamborghini is carrying on its glorious brand tradition. The 1970 Jota, for instance, was the stuff of legends – a Lamborghini Miura with improved performance and virtually redesigned every detail. It remained a one-off; although some owners subsequently had their Miuras modified to look like
the Jota.

The letter J is derived from the sporting rules of the FIA world motorsport organization. Its “Appendix J” defines the technical specification of race cars in the various classes.

The Aventador: Extremely open, overwhelming power

The Lamborghini Aventador J is a super sports car of positively dramatic single-mindedness and openness. It combines the overwhelming performance of the Lamborghini Aventador with the most intense experience of power and dynamics imaginable in an automobile.

The technical basis for the Aventador J is the Aventador LP 700-4, Lamborghini’s new twelve-cylinder model. Presented in 2011, the Aventador has been acclaimed by customers and journalists alike. The Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4’s technology package is unique – its structure is based on an innovative monocoque made from carbon fiber reinforced polymers
that combines systematic lightweight design with optimum stiffness and safety. The new twelve-cylinder with a displacement of 6.5 liters and 515 kW / 700 hp combines the best in high-revving thrills with mighty pulling power. Its super-fast ISR transmission, permanent all-wheel drive and pushrod suspension combine this potent power with the utmost handling
precision.

Systematic lightweight design – considerable weight reduction

Naturally, the Aventador J benefits enormously from this unique technology package. Yet the Aventador J has a significantly different interpretation to the Aventador coupé. In this open version, the monocoque has a largely new design, including the two safety bars behind the seats. The absence of a roof, of the large windshield, of the air conditioning system and of the navigation system obviously takes it to an even lower weight. With a dry weight of 1575 kilograms, the series production Aventador LP 700-4 is already extremely light for its performance class thanks to its carbon fiber construction.

Carbonskin, a brand new carbon fiber material

The unique expertise of Automobili Lamborghini in the field of carbon fiber reinforced polymers is evident not only in the hi-tech monocoque, but also in the research into further innovative solutions. Unlike traditional seats, in the Aventador J seats are made of Forged COMPOSITE®, with inserts of flexible carbon fiber fabrics: a result of an innovative Lamborghini patent.

The specialists at Lamborghini have developed an even more amazing version of carbon fiber material for the Aventador J. In its first automotive application, this carbon fiber fabric called “Carbonskin” is made of woven carbon fibers soaked with a very special epoxy resin that stabilizes the fiber structure and keeps the material soft. Like a hi-tech fabric, the carbon fiber
mats fit perfectly to every shape. In the Aventador J, the complete cockpit and parts of the seats are clad in this material and shimmer in matt carbon fiber black. It’s conceivable that in future there will be many potential applications for this freshly patented and extremely fine-looking material, even very high-end clothing.

The Design: uncompromisingly Lamborghini

An extreme Aventador obviously needs an equally single-minded design, which goes without saying at the Centro Stile Lamborghini. Every single model from Sant’Agata Bolognese bears the unique design of the brand. Clear, precise surfaces, as well as sharp, often broken lines are among the unmistakable styling tools. They consistently emphasize the power and enormous presence of these Italian super sports cars. Not one line is ever accidental – the defining principle is always ‘form follows function’.

This function is very clearly defined for the Aventador J – explosive dynamics, extreme driving fun, a unique experience. Every kilometer with the Aventador J is extreme fun: something plainly evident from the very first glance.

Rear view mirror like a periscope

Virtually every part of the outer chassis was redesigned for the Aventador J, yet it shows the spirit of Lamborghini in its most concentrated form. The car’s dimensions are extreme: the overall length is 4890 mm, the overall width (excluding mirrors) is 2030 mm while the height is 1110 mm.

The highest points are marked by the rear view mirror, which is perched on an arm like a periscope, and by the two safety bars behind the seats. In place of the classic front windshield there are two small wind deflectors. The occupants of the Aventador J are confronted by the element of the wind in much the same way as a superbike rider – therefore the right
clothing is prerequisite for every trip.

Front scoop with winglets

The front of the Aventador J is somewhat narrower than that of the Aventador. The front end is dominated by a highly distinctive carbon fiber air scoop, with central fixing braces and upward tilting winglets on the outer edges. Viewed from the side, the front end of the Aventador J looks
like a Formula 1 racing car.

Red with chrome effect, wheels with CFRP fan

The black of the carbon fiber parts is visibly evident throughout the car – the significantly wider sill elements and the mighty rear diffuser form a perfect contrast to the rich red body paintwork. The special red color was developed specifically for this Aventador – a highly intensive red with a slight chrome effect.

The wheels, of course, were also developed specifically for this car, with 20-inch rims at the front and 21-inch at the rear. The five-spoke aluminum wheels have a central lock system and an additional carbon fiber insert that functions like a small fan for optimum brake ventilation.

Naturally, the doors on the Aventador J also open upward. They are considerably thinner than on the Aventador and are fitted with a tiny, fixed side window. The muscular flanks around the rear wheels are hallmark Lamborghini and make it immediately apparent where this particular bull keeps his power.

Rear end purely for aerodynamics and ventilation

Because of its ample dimensions, the eye is drawn inexorably to the rear end. It consists in principle of just three elements – the carbon-fiber rear diffuser, the four huge tail pipes and the rear lights with their typical 5 Lamborghini light signature in the form of a Y. The remaining surface area is for heat dissipation and is enclosed only by a black metal mesh. The rear
end is crowned by an enormous fixed spoiler mounted on the bodyshell by two arms. ‘Form follows function’ to the nth degree. The spoiler is supported by two pillars connected by the diffuser: clearly inspired by racing.

Special bumpers

In comparison with the Aventador LP 700-4, the exclusive Aventador J has special front and rear bumpers. Both bumpers have been supplemented with carbon fiber fins that act as flow deviators. Their purpose is to achieve a significant increase in the vehicle’s downforce at both the front and the rear.

The outside comes inside

The Aventador J’s exterior and interior forms flow seamlessly into each other. This super sports car turns its inside outward and is as open as it can possibly be. Conversely, the exterior ‘flows’ through the interior – a red stripe runs from the front hood, between the two wind deflectors, over the dashboard, down the console to the center tunnel and back up between the seat backs, before leaving the interior and heading for the engine cover panel.

Interior is minimalist and single-minded

This band of color connects the front and the rear of the car, creates a visual separation between the driver and passenger space and is interrupted only by a small control panel housing the starter button and the switches for lights and transmission. The Aventador J is equipped neither with a navigation nor car audio system, nor does it have the associated
screen or air conditioning controls – these would simply detract from its one and only raison d’être as an extreme driving experience. What remains, of course, are two programmable TFT displays behind the steering wheel.

The engine cover also brings the inside to the outside. To be more precise,
it is not so much a cover but more a framework. This part has a new geometry (X shape) and is made of carbon fiber. Two large openings lay bare both cylinder banks of the mighty V12 power unit with its 6.5 liters of displacement – a truly stunning sight for every
automobile aficionado.

A unique work of art licensed for the road

However, at the end of the Geneva Motor Show, this sight will be the preserve of just one – the future owner of the Lamborghini Aventador J. There is only one of them, no prototypes and no others for the Lamborghini Museum. The buyer can look forward to a truly unique, street-legal work of art. He will possess the most extreme expression of Lamborghini DNA in existence and a real masterpiece of high technology. But the many other fans of the super sports cars from Sant’Agata Bolognese can rest assured – the Aventador success story has only just begun.

Source: Lamborghini Press Release

World Debut of BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show

Ultra-powerful, ultrafast and conspicuously inconspicuous: the BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800, which celebrates its world debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, is built in small-series production based on the two-door Mercedes C 63 AMG model. In place of the 6.3-liter fast-revving V8 that powers the production car, a twelve-cylinder engine in BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo specification lurks beneath the matte-black exterior. 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW and a peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft) propel the BULLIT Coupe 800 to superlative performance: 3.7 seconds to 100 km/h (62 mph), 23.8 seconds from 0 – 300 km/h (186 mph) and a top speed in excess of 370 km/h (230 mph) document the unique know-how of the engineers from BRABUS (Brabus-Allee, D-46240 Bottrop, phone + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777-0, fax + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777 111, Internet www.brabus.com). BRABUS went into the wind tunnel to engineer the aerodynamic-enhancement components that are part of the equipment of this supercar, as are new 20-inch BRABUS Monoblock R wheels, a sport suspension with customer-selectable ride height and damper rates, a high-performance brake system and exclusive cockpit design. The supercar will sell for an MSRP starting at EUR 378,000. It goes without saying that this car can also be built based on the Black Series C 63 AMG Coupe.

The BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 seamlessly continues the tradition of high-performance supercars from Bottrop. Following in the footsteps of the BRABUS BULLIT supercars based on the Mercedes C-Class sedan, which each produced 730 hp (720 bhp) / 537 kW and reached top speeds in excess of 360 km/h (224 mph), the even more powerful BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 has now been developed based on the new C-Class Coupe.

Numerous modifications to the reinforced C-Class body were necessary to implant the turbocharged V12 into the engine bay. The BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo engine is derived directly from the BRABUS E V12 one of ten. For this purpose an up-to-date Mercedes S 600 engine Motor is completely reengineered in the company engine building shop.

There is nothing to take the place of displacement except more displacement and for that reason displacement of the 12-cylinder, three-valve engine is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 384 cu. in.) with the help of a special crankshaft with longer stroke, larger, forged pistons and an increase in cylinder bore across the board. Intake and outlet ports of both cylinder heads are optimized for mixture flow, and fitted with sports camshafts.

The engine peripherals were also completely reworked completely. The inlet side features a newly designed, larger header casing that gets its combustion air from carbon-fiber ram-air intake system integrated into the hood.

To achieve the desired power increase of almost 300 hp over the production engine, the exhaust side had to be newly configured as well. The BRABUS 800 Biturbo system comprises two special exhaust manifolds with integrated high-performance turbochargers, and four water-to-air intercoolers. The stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts and driver-controlled butterfly valve also was created specifically for the C-Class Coupe floorpan.

State-of-the-art engine BRABUS test benches were used by the engineers for designing new mapping for engine electronics and on-board diagnostics. The result is maximum power yield while meeting strict current EURO V emission standards.

The BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo high-capacity engine, which like all BRABUS high-performance engines is lubricated exclusively with MOTUL synthetic motor oil, produces 800 PS (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm. The peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft) is limited electronically in the car to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

Power is transferred to the rear wheels via an appropriately reinforced seven-speed automatic transmission, which is shifted either automatically or manually via shift paddles on the steering wheel, and a BRABUS limited-slip rear differential with a locking rate of 40 percent. The BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 features all state-of-the-art driving dynamics systems such as ABS, ASR and ESP.

The matte-black stealth coupe delivers unrivaled performance: in a catapult start just 3.7 seconds pass from 0-100 km/h (62 mph), 9.8 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph). The 300-km/h (186-mph) barrier is shattered after 23.8 seconds. Top speed is more than 370 km/h (230 mph).

To be able to attain such extreme speeds while maintaining outstanding directional stability, the aerodynamic properties of the two-door car were modified extensively in the wind tunnel. The supplemental carbon-fiber BRABUS front spoiler reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds. The carbon-fiber lightweight air routers for the air inlets in the front fascia go beyond optimizing the supply of cooling air for radiators and front brakes. These lateral air vents also allow the air streaming through the radiators to exit again as quickly as possible. Another significant contribution to the heat exchange in the engine bay is made by the BRABUS air vents integrated into the front fenders behind the wheel wells.

The BRABUS designers have developed an aerodynamically effective combination of rear wing and diffuser insert for the rear fascia in order to generate more downforce on the rear axle. This carbon-fiber component has cutouts on the right and left side for the dual ceramics-plated design tailpipes of the BRABUS stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system.

The thrilling looks of the BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 is rounded out by the new BRABUS Monoblock R wheels. They represent a fresh approach with their unique design that features two times five double spokes arranged on two different plains. While the posterior plain has a titanium paint finish, the anterior surfaces are polished and coated with a smoke-colored clear lacquer, which lends the wheel a highly individual character. In sizes 8.5Jx20 in front and 9.5Jx20 on the rear axle the BRABUS Monoblock R wheels make perfect use of the available space in the wheel wells. The high-performance tires in sizes 235/30 ZR 20 and 275/25 ZR 20 are supplied by technology partners Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA.

The height-adjustable coilover suspension was custom developed for the BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 in cooperation with technology partner BILSTEIN. It features gas-pressure shocks on front and rear axle with ten selectable settings each for bound and rebound for a sporty yet comfortable ride. Sport sway bars reduce body roll during fast cornering to a minimum.

The BRABUS high-performance brake system consists of vented and grooved steel brake discs that measure 380 x 37 millimeters (15.0 x 1.45 in.) and 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers in the front. In combination with vented and grooved steel discs measuring 360 x 28 millimeters (14.2 x 1.1 in.) and six-piston fixed aluminum calipers on the rear axle it easily masters even highest brake loads.

The cockpit of the supercar has a distinctly sporty design. The interior was clad by the BRABUS master craftsmen in the upholstery shop in a combination of black leather and Alcantara to match the outer skin. Red contrasting seams add discrete sporty highlights. This look is rounded out by genuine carbon-fiber components on the dashboard, center console and door trim. Further sporty features are the ergonomically shaped BRABUS sport steering wheel as well as aluminum pedals and shifter.

BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 – Technical Data

Body

2-door coupe based on the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe.

Steel unibody welded to floorpan.

BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 aerodynamic-enhancement kit for reduced lift on front and rear axle and reduced drag. Consists of supplemental front spoiler, air routers for the lateral air inlets and outlets, air vents in the front fenders, rear wing and rear diffuser.

BRABUS hood with integrated ram-air intake system.

Dimensions:

Length 4,707 mm (185.3 in.)

Width 1,795 mm (70.7 in.)

Height 1,361 mm (53.6 in.)

Curb weight 1,820 kg (4,012 lbs.)

Gross vehicle weight 2,160 kg (4,762 lbs.)

Tank capacity/reserve 66 l / 14.0 l (17.4 / 3.7 gal.)

Engine

BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo high-capacity engine based on Mercedes 600.

BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo engine conversion consisting of:

Displacement increase to 6.3 liters (384 cu. in.) by means of a special crankshaft with longer stroke, larger cylinder bore and corresponding larger pistons. Mixture-flow-optimized intake and outlet ports of both cylinder heads, including installation of high-performance camshafts.

BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo system with two high-performance turbochargers with optimized exhaust manifolds and integrated turbine housings, more efficient intercooling system with four water-to-air intercoolers and ram-air intake integrated into hood.

BRABUS stainless-steel twin exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts and butterfly valve. Newly programmed mapping for engine and on-board diagnostics.

V12-cylinder three-valve alloy engine with two turbochargers

Displacement 6.233 cc (380.4 cu. in)

Compression ratio 9.0 : 1

Rated power output 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm

Peak torque 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft) from 2,100 rpm (electronically limited to 1,100 Nm / 811 lb-ft)

max. CO2 emissions 372 g/km (595 g/mile)

Fuel type: Super plus (98 ROZ)

Motor oil: MOTUL

Power Transfer

Rear-wheel drive with limited-slip differential and ESP

Reinforced seven-speed quick-shift automatic gearbox

Gear ratios:

1st gear 4.38

2nd gear 2.86

3rd gear 1.92

4th gear 1.37

5th gear 1.00

6th gear 0.82

7th gear 0.73

1st reverse gear 3.42

2nd reverse gear 2.23

BRABUS limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent

Final drive ratio 2.65 : 1

Suspension

Independent front and rear suspension with height-adjustable BRABUS coilover sport suspension developed in cooperation with BILSTEIN.

Front axle:

Three-link suspension, anti-dive geometry, Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with gas-pressure shocks with 10-way adjustable bound and rebound, coil springs, BRABUS sport sway bar.

Rear axle:

Multi-link suspension, anti-dive and anti-squat geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with gas-pressure shocks with 10-way adjustable bound and rebound, coil springs, BRABUS sport sway bar.

Wheels:

One-piece BRABUS Monoblock R alloy wheels with Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA high-performance tires.

Front: 8.5J x 20 H2 with 235/30 ZR 20

Rear: 9.5J x 20 H2 with 275/25 ZR 20

Brake System

Dual circuit brake system with Brake Assist and BRABUS high-performance brake system.

Front: BRABUS 12-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved steel discs measuring 380 x 37 mm (15.0 x 1.45 in.)

Rear: BRABUS six-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved steel discs measuring 360 x 28 mm (14.2 x 1.1 in.)

Performance

0 – 100 km/h (62 mph): 3.7 sec.

0 – 200 km/h (124 mph): 9.8 sec.

0 – 300 km/h (186 mph): 23.8 sec.

Top speed: more than 370 km/h / 230 mph

Fuel Economy

Max. city 23.4 l / 100 km (10.0 mpg)

Max. highway 10.4 l / 100 km (22.6 mpg)

Max. combined 15.1 l / 100 km (15.6 mpg)

Source: Brabus Press Release

McCormick’s Palm Springs Collector Car Auctions Features Strong Lineup

McCormick’s Palm Springs Collector Car Auction Event 52 taking place this weekend, promises to be one the  highlights of the year. This years event will have over 500 cars on the auction block. Here are some the featured vehicles. For more information visit www.classic-carauction.com

Cars for the Cure 2012 Photo Gallery

The 8th Annual “Cars for the Cure” Heathrow automotive festival was held on February 3rd – 5th 2012 at beautiful Colonial TownPark in Lake Mary, Florida. This charitable event, with proceeds going to support the American Lung Association in Florida, was like no other.

Some of the most powerful and highly-tuned cars from around the world were display on: international and American Customs, European exotics, high-power racers, muscle cars, custom bikes and more. The streets were lined with great shops, restaurants, attractions and a variety of sponsor booths. Ultimate Audio with it’s lineup of tuned and custom cars were one of the highlights of the show along with a private collection featuring a Bugatti Veyron , Lamborghini Aventador, Ferrari 458 Italia and a McLaren.

Can’t wait for next year!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ENTIRE PHOTO GALLERY OF OVER 160 IMAGES

2012 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Black and Yellow at Qatar Photo Gallery

The legendary European manufacturer takes part in Qatar Motor Show for the second time, presenting an exclusive and uniquely coloured model of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport, which is the fastest, most powerful and most luxurious open top car in
the world.

Throughout his life Ettore Bugatti experimented with different colour schemes and materials to create unique cars. The Grand Sport on display at Qatar Motor Show continues this tradition and has a horizontal colour split with a bright yellow body framed in visible black carbon, including black-tinted wheels. The striking contrast of black and yellow, Ettore Bugatti’s favorite colours, is continued inside with seats finished in yellow-colored leather with black stitching. The middle console is in black carbon, while the dashboard, steering wheel and gearshift are made of black leather with yellow stitching. This Grand Sport model comes at a price of 1.58 million euros.

After the final order for the Bugatti Veyron coupé has been placed in June 2011, marking an end to the successful era and exclusive production run of 300 units of the supercar and its even faster cousin the Super Sport, the story of Bugatti’s exceptional sports car is set to continue. Automotive connoisseurs have the opportunity to still acquire the Grand Sport and its supreme technology. When the roof is on, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport can reach a top speed of 407 km/h, while speeds of up to 350 km/h are possible with the roof off. This makes the Grand Sport the fastest roadster in the world. The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport 16.4 will be assembled by hand at the company’s headquarters in Molsheim, France. In cooperation with the Bugatti design and engineering team, Bugatti customers can tailor their vehicles to their personal preferences by choosing from a broad array of exquisite materials and colours. The Grand Sport model on display in Qatar demonstrates an ever growing number of options available to existing and new Grand Sport owners. Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. has limited the Grand Sport to 150 units of which 105 slots are still open. The standard version costs 1.4 million euros (excluding taxes and delivery).

Source: Bugatti Press Release

MagnaFlow Mario Andretti Edition 2011 Camaro SS Sells to Benefit Wounded Warrior Project

With Mario Andretti on the stage cheering on the bidders the MagnaFlow Mario Andretti Edition 2011 Camaro SS was on the block last night at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale 2012. All proceeds went to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project Inc. As the gavel dropped the MagnaFlow Mario Andretti Edition 2011 Camaro SS sold for $75,000.

In creating the MagnaFlow Mario Andretti Edition 2011 Camaro SS, we wanted to develop a high performance vehicle that would be worthy of the Andretti name while honoring the vehicle’s roots to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project. Creating a unique identity for the Camaro meant using subtle styling to enhance the aesthetics. Bill Dunn Upholstery provided carbon fiber body accents in the form of a front splitter, skirts and diffuser. RK Sport donated a carbon fiber hood to further reduce weight and allow for a paint design that pays tribute to Mario’s racing heritage. Bill Dunn Upholstery stepped up to the plate to upgrade the interior with high quality leathers, suede and subtle accents tying the interior and exterior together and giving the Camaro a luxurious custom feel. In the powertrain category, the LS3 packs a punch that can stand alone. However, in creating a true supercar, we needed a boost in power levels. We partnered with Magnuson Products to enhance power through one of their aftermarket TVS 2300 superchargers. Advanced Clutch Technology and their twin-disc clutch helped us insure all the extra horsepower was transferred to the wheels. With increased power levels we need to give the Camaro more stopping power, grip and control. Brembo offered to help this beast stop on a dime with their 6-piston monobloc system. Opting to stay with 20″ wheels, HRE P40s added the additional styling needed to show off the Pirelli PZero tires for enhanced traction. The Eibach Springs Pro Plus kit allowed for more control and better handling. After Mario Andretti took it to triple digit speeds at the Nashville SuperSpeedway and Samuel Hubinette took it sideways in the Optima Ultimate Street Car Invitational at Spring Mountain Raceway, we were confident that we had achieved our goal.

Source: Barrett-Jackson.com

1991 Ferrari F40 Berlinetta Offered for Sale by RM Auctions Arizona

To be auctioned on Friday, January 20, 2012 Estimated value $650,000- $750,000

471 bhp (SAE), 2,936 cc mid-mounted V-8 engine with dual overhead camshafts per cylinder bank, four valves per cylinder, Weber-Marelli engine management and port fuel injection, twin IHI turbochargers, Behr air-to-air intercoolers, five-speed manual gearbox in rear transaxle, four-wheel independent suspension with unequal-length A-arms, coil springs and anti-roll bar, and four-wheel ventilated hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 96.5″ • Less than 300 miles from new and well documented; still on original MSO • Three owners from new, originally owned by Lee Iacocca • An enduring supercar icon, the last Ferrari under Il Commendatore Introduced in 1987, Ferrari’s F40 supercar was nothing less than a shock to the senses and a masterful combination of raw-edge, radical styling with state-of-the-art technologies used throughout its engine, body and chassis designs. Without question, driving an F40 is truly a visceral experience, hammering the senses with brutal acceleration, go-kart quick reflexes and a howling exhaust note that is music to the ears of the devoted enthusiast. The overall experience is addictive—a powerful narcotic even. Conceived in 1986, the F40 project was intended to celebrate Ferrari’s landmark 40th anniversary. Il Commendatore, Enzo Ferrari, is reported to have said, “Let’s make something special for next year’s celebrations in the way we used to do it.” A friend of Ferrari, Gino Rancati, who received a silver plaque to commemorate the occasion, suggested the car’s name. It was inscribed, “To Gino Rancati for a brilliant idea.” An accompanying letter said: Dear Rancati, with this plaque I want to commemorate our meeting on the 4th June when you kindly contributed to the choice of name for the GT car we presented at the Frankfurt motor show. Your contribution has produced excellent results—the ‘F forty’, based on the idea of forty years of Ferrari cars, identifies and personalizes the fastest Ferrari GT. Kindest regards. G.B. Razelli. Poignantly, next to this, in slightly shaky script with violet ink, was, “To Signor Gino, Ferrari.” Sadly, the F40 was to be the last car that Enzo Ferrari would see launched by the company he founded. In true Ferrari tradition, the F40 bridged the gap between the company’s road cars and racing cars, representing a further progression of the 288 GTO Evoluzione. Cost-no-object engineering produced technical specifications that remain the stuff of fantasy even by today’s jaded standards. A carbon-fiber and Kevlar-reinforced steel space frame chassis with composite body panels was mated to an Evoluzione twin-turbocharged and intercooled four-cam, port-injected V-8 engine, controlled by a race-proven Weber-Marelli engine management system and producing close to 500 bhp. Weighing just 1,100 kilograms, the F40 was capable of blinding performance. Fast Lane magazine road tested the F40 in the late 1980s, achieving zero-to-60 times of just 3.9 seconds. From a standstill, Ferrari’s supercar accelerated to 100 mph in just 7.8 seconds and to 140 mph in 14 seconds! Independent testing revealed even quicker acceleration times. Regardless of the source, the F40 proved to be the fastest road car ever produced, and its performance abilities remain simply staggering in every respect today. While the initial production run was limited to about 400 examples, the market demand was so overwhelming, even with the car’s stratospheric price tag, that production continued until 1,315 F40s were built by the time production ended in 1991. American Ferrari enthusiasts, however, had to wait until 1990 for the chance to own one. With such strong demand, U.S.-specification cars traded at premiums of many thousands of dollars above their list price in the heady “supercar” market of the time. Over a three-year period, only 213 examples of the F40 were built for the U.S. market. While every F40 is “special” indeed, this example from 1991 has covered fewer than 300 miles from new, and it is still unregistered and listed on its Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO). As the 94th of the 213 U.S.-specification F40s, it was produced during October 1990. With just three owners from new, its original owner was none other than the famed American automotive executive and business leader Lee Iacocca. Having recently received a major service by Patrick Ottis, the noted Ferrari marque specialist, the F40 is now offered from the current owner’s impressive private collection and complete with extensive documentation confirming the former ownership of Mr. Iacocca. Among the documents are such items as the Ferrari Certificate of Origin dated October 12, 1990, a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency letter, Italian export paperwork, an engraved “Built Especially for Lee Iacocca” card, the Owner’s Warranty and Service Book, the warranty card and one piece of personal correspondence. A genuine “blue chip” investment-quality exotic automobile, this 1991 F40 will certainly continue to top the Ferrari collector’s wish list for many years to come.

Source: RM Auctions

SELECT MOTORCYCLES FROM MICHAEL JORDAN MOTORSPORTS JOIN AUCTIONS AMERICA BY RM’S LAS VEGAS SALE

Auctions America by RM will raise the green flag on a winning line-up of competition motorcycles from the esteemed Michael Jordan Motorsports (MJM) race team when its inaugural Las Vegas Premier Motorcycle Auction gets underway Jan. 12 – 14, 2012, at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino.

Founded by NBA legend and Hall of Famer Michael Jordan in 2004, MJM is a respected competitor among factory-owned teams nationwide, having enjoyed significant success and numerous podium finishes. The collection is presented for auction by Upper Deck Authenticated, “The World’s Greatest Memorabilia™ Company,” which acquired the bikes directly from the Michael Jordan Motorsports team over the past eight years. These five bikes from the team’s formative years will return to the limelight next month, joining the starting grid at Auctions America’s highly anticipated Vegas sale.

“We’re both honored and excited to have been entrusted with the presentation of these select Michael Jordan Motorsports team bikes for the first time at a public sale,” said Donnie Gould, president of Auctions America by RM. “Each represents an important chapter in MJM’s history and, in turn, presents an exclusive ownership opportunity for savvy collectors.”

Leading the collection across the podium is the race-winning 2008 Suzuki GSX-R1000 AMA Superstock from the 2008 Superstock season and autographed by Michael Jordan (pictured). Presented in the MJM team color of Carolina blue, this Suzuki was not only ridden by Aaron Yates (#20) and Geoff May (#99), it claimed the 2008 Superstock Championship, the first for the MJM race team. Another highlight from the MJM racing stable is a Yamaha YZF-R1 AMA Superbike, ridden by Montez Stewart (#123) during the team’s first year in the 2004 AMA Superstock class.

“Upper Deck Authenticated prides itself on offering collectors the most premium and authentic collectibles in the market. We are pleased to provide five remarkable, unique, one-of- a-kind motorcycles from Michael Jordan Motorsports to the public for the first time and excited to be teaming up with Auctions America to offer the bikes at their debut Las Vegas sale,” said Jason Masherah, vice president of marketing and business development of Upper Deck.

Additional highlights include:

•  a unique 2005 Suzuki GSX-R1000 AMA Superstock, ridden by Stewart during the second year of MJM and featuring detailed graphics of the Air Jordan XX shoe, inspired by Jordan’s celebrated career;  
• a gold-and-black 2006 Suzuki GSX-R1000 AMA Superstock, ridden by Jake Holden (#59) in MJM’s third year and presented in the team’s 2006 “Gold Medal” color theme signifying Jordan’s achievements with Team USA in the ‘84 and ‘92 Olympic Games; and
• a royal blue-and-white 2007 Suzuki GSX-R1000 AMA Superstock, ridden by Holden during MJM’s fourth year in the 2007 AMA Superstock class. 

“These motorcycles dominated some of the toughest races in the Superstock and Superbike classes,” added Gould. “Enthusiasts will appreciate the motorcycles’ racing provenance and condition. They will not only amaze the crowd, they’ll impress even the most ardent of motorcycle collectors.”

The select bikes from the MJM racing stable join more than 400 collectible motorcycles expected to cross the block at Auctions America’s debut Vegas sale next month. In addition to the auction, the multi-day event will include celebrity appearances and an exclusive seminar featuring motorcycle experts from across the country.

Full event details and a list of auction offerings are available online at www.auctionsamerica.com or by calling toll free 877-906-2437 (or +1 260-927-9797 outside North America).

About Auctions America by RM

Formed in July 2010, Auctions America by RM specializes in the sale of American classics, European sports cars, Detroit muscle, hot rods, customs and collectible motorcycles. To learn more about Auctions America, visit www.auctionsamerica.com, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @auctionsamerica.

About Upper Deck Authenticated

With a passionate focus on high quality craftsmanship, innovation and cutting-edge technology, The Upper Deck Company revolutionized the trading card experience in 1989. Over the years, Upper Deck has evolved from a trading card manufacturer to a worldwide sports and entertainment company and is regarded today as “The World’s Greatest Memorabilia™ Company”. For further information, visit www.upperdeckstore.com.

About Michael Jordan Motorsports

Legendary NBA star Michael Jordan formed Michael Jordan Motorsports in 2004 as a result of his passion for motorcycle racing.  In just eight years of existence, Michael Jordan Motorsports has shown that it can compete with factory-owned teams and can regularly vie for the podium. For further information, visit www.23race.com.

Source: Auctions America by RM’s Press Release

Next Page »