Racing Archives

Aston Martin Vantage F1 Safety Car Builds On Essentials Bumps Up Screens

The old Aston Martin Vantage F1 safety car looked stylish and had a good track record of service at various F1 events. However, its performance was not up to everyone’s taste with reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen torching the car’s performance. Verstappen’s complaints (among others) prompted Aston Martin to unleash an improved Vantage F1 Safety Car which not only gets more muscle but also more technology as well. More Performance Sharpens Vantage Safety Car Vibes A key change that race fans and Aston Martin loyalists will notice is the infusion of extra power with this latest version of the safety …

Mar 05, 2024 Read more

Maserati GT2 Picks Up MC12’s Legacy, Aims To Bring Maserati Back To GT Racing

Maserati is looking to recharge its GT racing ambitions while creating a new chapter that can fill the pages written by the MC12, one of the most stylish and controversial cars the Italian luxury company has ever produced. The Maserati GT2 made a splash at the 24 Hrs of Spa race in Belgium last weekend, and after seeing the car briefly grace our television screen, we think Maserati is on the right track in its track-focused game plan. GT2 Brings Maserati Back To The Track Like the MC12, the GT2 is designed to comply with GT regulations and shares most …

Jul 03, 2023 Read more

Cadillac V-LMDh Race Car Debuts In Several New Liveries, Also Showcases Final Design

The Cadillac V-LMDh race car is poised to make its debut at The Rolex 24 At Daytona on January 17th but the company chose to provide a sneak peek of the different liveries that will come equipped to the car while also showing us the final design elements for the race car as well. Adding A Dash of Luxury To The Racetrack When we last saw the Cadillac Project GTP racecar at GM’s design dome, it was evident that Cadillac was taking the challenge of motorsports very seriously with the prototype combining the best of modern Cadillac design with …

Jan 12, 2023 Read more

Dodge Announces Challenger Drag Pak Bodies, Confirms Carbon Fiber Charger Bodies Too

Dodge had plenty to talk about the past few days; from the Challenger Droptop to the recently unveiled Dodge Hornet, it’s clear that Dodge is trying to boldly transition to a new era. But what if you’re a drag racer looking to build the track-slaying monster of your dreams but want to go about things your own way? Dodge has the answer with a new wave of rolling bodies that will allow you to do just that. A Pair Of Options For Any Budget Modifying and creating a drag racer can be a very pricey and intensive headache, but …

Aug 17, 2022 Read more

Will Power Records Third Belle Isle Victory, Nabs 100th Win For Chevrolet

History was made on Belle Isle during the 2022 Detroit Grand Prix. Not only was it the final race on the island before the event moves to the streets of downtown Detroit, but also the place where Chevrolet recorded its 100th Detroit Grand Prix victory thanks to the help of Team Penske’s Will Power who recorded his third Belle Isle victory and finally had a chance to go for a swim in the iconic Scott Fountain. A Dominating Performance Accented By Riveting Conclusion The 70-lap race began with Josef Newgarden in the lead before Will Power took the …

Jun 06, 2022 Read more

No. 1 Cadillac DPi Racer Leaps Back Into Contention With Belle Isle Victory, Chip Ganassi Secures 63rd IMSA Win

Prior to their surprise victory at the Chevrolet Sports Classic on historic Belle Isle, the odds were stacked against the No. 1 Cadillac V-Performance Academy DPi and drivers Sebastian Bourdais and Renger van der Zande. Their season was anything but perfect, with the duo falling victim to various mechanical problems and even a few bad turns in fortune. Going into today’s race, there were some skeptics wondering whether Belle Isle would be the latest speedbump for their troubled car. However, thanks to a solid game plan and skilled driving, Renger van der Zande was able to pull it off in …

Jun 04, 2022 Read more

Honda Unveils Rally Bred Passport SUV, Will Compete In American Rally Association

It wasn’t too long ago that Honda focused on promoting reliability, practicality, and value with its utility vehicle lineup. While this certainly catered to a wide swath of buyers, that meant putting things such as off-road capability, trail readiness, and fun on the backburner. Thankfully, the Japanese auto giant is finally changing its tune on those latter three and has put a greater emphasis on promoting them to consumers. That includes the growing TrailSport lineup, but Honda promises these models are just the first act in a broader show. We got to see a slice of this on the motorsport …

Oct 18, 2021 Read more

Bentley Continental GT3 Shoots For The Crown In Pikes Peak Challenge

The annual Pikes Peak hill climb event is fast approaching, and while the COVID-19 pandemic forced contenders to sit out the 2020 event in their garages, the 2021 event promises to continue its wild ways. Bentley is one of the teams competing in this year’s event and has prepared a special Continental GT3 to try and plant their bespoke flag at the event. A Different Breed Of Continental The Continental GT3 might have originally started life as a luxury-filled coupe, but Bentley engineers have transformed the car into a potent track weapon, with the British luxury carmaker claiming that …

Jun 04, 2021 Read more

Ford Bronco To Compete In King of The Hammers, Aims To Solidify Go Anywhere Reputation

The Ford Bronco is already one of the most hyped vehicles of 2021 and we had a chance to see it embrace its racing pedigree with the Bronco recently taking part in the 2020 running of the Baja 1000 race. But Ford is always up for a challenge and has its eyes set on an even bigger prize, winning the 2021 King of The Hammers off-road race. Ultra4 Bronco Aims To Slay The Trails The Dearborn auto giant is hoping to cement its place in history by entering three Bronco based entries which will compete in the Ultra4 4400 …

Feb 01, 2021 Read more

Ford Unveils Bronco R Baja Racer, Showcases Clues For Production Bronco [Video]

Ford is still very keen on keeping the wraps firmly tightened around the production Ford Bronco, but the company has given eager fans of the iconic nameplate something extra to chew on with the unveiling of the Bronco R Baja racer. Designed to tackle the upcoming Baja 1000 desert race, the revived model will also help celebrate the 50th anniversary of Rob Hall’s Baja 1000 victory in a first gen Bronco based entry. As another nod to the past, Hall’s granddaughter Shelby Hall will drive it during portions of the grueling race. Before all that happens though, Ford will take …

Nov 05, 2019 Read more

Pure McLaren

Track experiences for driver betterment In our daily lives, all of us relate to cars in some way. For most, they represent the most basic of needs in today’s busy life. Commuting to work, running errands, as well as journeys with family and friends. They are times overlooked in what we ask them to do for us. For most people, they can only get noticed when they break. It’s that familiarity, though, that basic understanding of what a car is at its core that enables all of us drivers to build upon and break out of ignoring the common car. …

Jun 21, 2019 Read more

Updated – 1979 Porsche 935 – Gooding Amelia Island 2019

Update: This car is still available after not meeting its reserve. A few new photos of the machine from Amelia. It passed the two million mark but not close enough to three, apparently. The car seems to be in a ‘between’ period between campy and classic. 1979 Porsche 935 – Gooding Amelia 2019 Check out this beauty! The wild paintwork and the massive racing aero dwarf the tiny 911 basis for this racecar. The result is a machine nearly as wide as it is long, and as fire-spitting as any on the world’s racetracks. Power is estimated at 650HP, which …

Mar 12, 2019 Read more

1987 Kremer Porsche 962C – Gooding Amelia 2019 Highlights

It is very easy to see why this Porsche 962 earned over a million bucks at the Gooding Amelia 2019 auctions. Not only is the livery gorgeous but the condition of the vehicle is all original, and truly exceptional for a car that did LeMans for two years in the 1980s. A race that usually only the winners leave intact…! Those hubs in a rusty gold are not in fact rusty but are made of NASA-spec magnesium/titanium alloy, which is naturally that color. Was surprised to see Yokohama tires on the 750HP racer… until noticing they were an official sponsor …

Mar 11, 2019 Read more

1998 Nissan R390 GT1 – Amelia Concours 2019 Highlight

This one-of-a-kind machine is the only road-going variant of the Nissan R390 LeMans racecar series. It usually lives locked away in the Nissan’s Zama museum in Japan so we were very fortunate to have it attend the Amelia Island Concours 2019. Every vehicle ever looks stunning on bright green grass under Florida sun. The design is a thing of great beauty, even if the nose detailing is dull and this road variant lacks the giant rear wing of the racecars. The 3.5-liter V8 shoots 550 fiery horsepower out the rear bumper edges on command from inside the leather-wrapped cabin. We …

Mar 11, 2019 Read more

2019 Lynk & Co 03 Cyan Concept Is Next-Gen WTCR Racer

Here is a Chinese import that takes Euro localisation seriously! A C-segment sedan thoroughly upgraded to full race spec. A machine that embraces Euro dimensions and design while also appreciating the massive interest in all forms of racing. Making RenaultSport’s latest machines fast on track becomes a religion in itself for many. So here is a Lynk 03 sedan tuned to the max, and ready to attack! Like the bumper-bashing old Volvo 850R wagons battling Alfa 164’s of the BTCC! This machine is bonkers powerful at 528HP from a 2.0-liter four — all to the front wheels. To say its …

Mar 04, 2019 Read more

TechRules Turbine EV Racecar Shows Its Glowing Heart

Some interesting news from TechRules today — a closer look at the mini-turbine that will recharge future EVs on the go. This is a series hybrid like an Abrams tank or certain military ships, where the power created from the gas turbines is directly applied to the electric motors which do the actual propulsion. What makes this new design so fascinating and potentially game-changing is the micro nature of the turbine that TechRules has created. A new air-bearing appears to solve a frequent wear-out item in turbines and should make the system an interesting long-term/long-range electric. One that you can …

Feb 26, 2019 Read more

1979 Porsche 935 – Gooding Amelia Island 2019 Preview

Check out this beauty! The wild paintwork and the massive racing aero dwarf the tiny 911 basis for this racecar. The result is a machine nearly as wide as it is long, and as fire-spitting as any on the world’s racetracks. Power is estimated at 650HP, which is more than sufficient to scare the bejesus out of any driver! Favorite details include the oversized rear wheels with the magnesium heat shields in a deep dome shape. And of course the whale tail and slant-nose front aero. The silhouette is a thing of a million study-hall daydreams — but brought to …

Feb 25, 2019 Read more

1984 Porsche 911 SC/RS – Factory Rothmans Rally Car – Gooding Amelia 2019

There are a few very tasty 911s in the Gooding Amelia Island 2019 lineup — but this one jumped off the page and right into my heart. Imagine jamming this 280HP, lifted and skid-plated hero across some loose surfaces! Second to the Dakar 959, we can hardly think of a more iconic off-road 911. This is the livery of a thousand fakes — but here in all its authentic glory. This SC/RS was one of 20 produced for FIA homologation rules. It has had a wild life of racing to win numerous races in 1984 and 1985 before living in …

Feb 23, 2019 Read more

2019 McLaren SENNA GTR – Best of Goodwood Festival of Speed 2018

The McLaren Senna is already such an insanely aggressive and unique new hypercar. Its looks instantly make the entire Lambo and Ferrari lineups seem hopelessly dated. The raw energy from these sliced and diced panels hardly needed a racing upfit. But here we are. This Senna GTR is absolutely shocking in its design brutality. The functional nature of the aero additions are makes them even more interesting and beautiful to the eye. Check out this nose — not just the usual surfboard chin splitter here, oh no. What they’ve done is remove any air-blocking flat surfaces from the nose. What …

Jul 27, 2018 Read more

Best of Amelia Island – 2018 Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus SCG003S Stradale – Photos & Videos

An absolutely phenomenal car is what it takes to win the real Concours trophies. In our book, a hypercar like no other is enough. SCG003S is exquisite in person. The details for its transformation to “luxury” version of the SCG003 LMP car are slight outside. Full CHMSL and side idicator lights have a very NHTSA feel. A backup lamp and rear fog are included along with taillights. And a plate. This is a road car. Fully legal in every state via a new low-volume manufacturer US certification. $2.4 mil is the cost and six are spoken for. 20 more on …

Mar 16, 2018 Read more

Insider: Five Ideas for Racing-Themed Vacations

Do you arrange your weekends around every televised NASCAR, IndyCar, Formula One or FIA World Endurance Championship race? Is your idea of a fun day out obsessing over every car at the car show or heading out to your local track to watch the drag races? If you live and breathe cars and racing, then it should also be a no-brainer to theme your next vacation around your passion. Here are five ideas for planning an amazing racing-themed getaway. 1. Get in on the Action Why watch from the sidelines when you can jump into the fray? Many drag tracks …

Jan 12, 2018 Read more

860HP RXR One is AMG GT-S by IMSA GmbH

How furious would you be this year if you bought an AMG GT last year?? Same goes for the 675LT McLaren they are still trying to sell next to the new-face 720S. The new AMG GT-R is a hard upgrade of the original. RXR One is IMSA of Germany’s take on upgrading the softer GT and GT-S cars to track-attack road spec. The result is unique, aggressive and clearly brings huge amounts of racing knowledge to bear on the GT’s design. Loving its widebody bumper intakes and outlets. Centerlock alloys and red-striped Pirellis complete a solid racecar look. RXR …

Oct 26, 2017 Read more

Part Two – 2017 Porsche 908 RSR Vision GT Hommage Meets 919 and 917K

Part Two: The RSR! The crew behind the gorgeous longtail 908 VGT design have a new beast for 2017’s fantasy-cars daydream. A skilled group of professional car designers has been working on a side project after work hours for the last few years. When not designing vehicles for a Chinese car brand, this group led by Alan Derosier has created magic in the form of not one — but two Vision Gran Turismo fantasy concepts. They took the VGT idea to heart and applied it to one of the most storied brands in racing history: Porsche. For licensing and …

Sep 14, 2017 Read more

Frankfurt IAA 2017 – PORSCHE Showfloor Gallery – Cayenne Turbo + GT3 Touring

It is shocking how many things can be fixed in this world by the sheer presence of the Rothmans rally racing 959. The new Cayenne Turbo continues the grand tradition of Porkers looking best from the back. The nose is hard to judge in photos … but certainly looks ravenous. The GT3 Touring Package is a new issue with all the GT3 handling but less giant wing out back. It looks stellar from both ends. We also have our first look at the 2018 Cayenne S. This seems rather plain in the presence of the Turbo but will surely bring …

Sep 13, 2017 Read more

Concept Flashback – 1965 GT40 Roadster Prototype

The GT40 was actually a pretty derivative design – with a chassis and overall structure partially borrowed from Lola. But the GT40 as it came from Lola was not a winner right away. While the Mark I GT40 is a bit more pure, and a lot more beautiful by many eyes — it was not a race-winner. The GT40 started winning races with the Mark II GT40 with its huge air scoops, front sill spats, and other aero mutations to the overall design. But still – it is hard to argue with the clean beauty of these initial concept prototypes. …

Aug 30, 2017 Read more

2018 Acura ARX-05 Endurance Racer Bringing V6TT To Track

Acura racer… coming in hot! This new ARX-05 will race in 2018 for Team Penske in the DPi class of endurance racers — some of the fiercest competitors on US tracks. Acura’s motorsport V6TT serves here and will power the car for its Rolex 24 race premiere in Daytona. On to the design!~ It is mean. Mean and fast. This nose tells cars in front: You’re About To Get Passed. 2017 Acura ARX-05 Acura Reveals Striking ARX-05 Prototype Race Car in Monterey; Debut Set for Daytona Aug 18, 2017 – MONTEREY, Calif. Acura to take on top …

Aug 18, 2017 Read more

1985 Mazda RX-7 Evo Group B Works Rally Car – RM London 2017

Never. Been. Raced! Seeking $250k. Will make your rally dreams come true. 1985 Mazda RX-7 Evo Group B Works RM Sotheby’s London 2017 Lot 123 1985 Mazda RX-7 Evo Group B Works To be auctioned on Wednesday, September 6, 2017 £170,000 – £190,000 Photo Credit: Rowan Horncastle ©2017 Courtesy of RM Sotheby’s

Aug 17, 2017 Read more

Supercar for Civic Cash? Meet the $22k Daytona Coupe

What’s the catch? How can this 390HP, mid-front V8 powered legend be so cheap and so clean? If an original racing Shelby Daytona Coupe, this machine would be one of a handful of survivors and carry a price into the millions. This core design’s handling brilliance, speed and reliability are what won it its Daytona nickname, after all. So this raspberry beret is a replica. So what? The advantage of being a good, semi-authorized replica is that it is (nearly) brand new. And built by Factory Five versus an individual kitter. Imagine rumbling up to your local cars n’ coffee …

Jul 06, 2017 Read more

~1936 Delahaye 135 S Competition Roadster at Amelia [35 Photos]

There is something really spectacular about “finding” a priceless exotic car just parked silently. Slid into a space like any Camry, locked and left alone for however long. The location helps. This back lot is behind the Amelia Island Ritz residences. On Concours weekend. Which does tend to help the selection. WHen the car in question is the stunningly fast, low and lean Delahaye 135S Competition Roadster!? The patina of this car — its dull paintwork, its myriad road rash scars, and its unpolished brass grille details — shows it is likely authentic. Sick, perhaps, but we thought it might …

Mar 27, 2017 Read more

2017 Renault-Sport R.S.01 GT3 by Gtronix McChip-DKR

One of our favorite engine tuners from Germany is heading out onto the racetrack! Big news for the growing McChip-DKR best known for making unstoppable turbos! The 2017 RenaultSport RS01 GT3 looks like it might not need much extra boost — but the track will be the judge. 2017 Renault-Sport R.S.01 GT3 by Gtronix McChip-DKR MCCHIP-DKR made A STUNNING ANNOUNCEMENT Secrets are made in order to be disclosed in a well timed manner. Mcchip-dkr in Mechernich recently revealed a big surprise with regards to the upcoming racing season 2017: A team named Gtronix-mcchip-dkr will be launched in the …

Mar 26, 2017 Read more

This Exact 1952 Mercedes-Benz W194 Won Lemans

Just parked up on the lawn in front of the Mercedes stand! Read into the details of W194 number 7 and you quickly learn this exact car won LeMans. Impressive! Of course, this tanker aero design hides a Super Light alloy spaceframe with giant structural sills. Escape was via the future-icon gullwing doors. This car went on to race at the Nurburgring and as a timer in the Carrera Panamericana. 1952 Mercedes-Benz W194 Number 7

Mar 21, 2017 Read more

1980 Lancia BETA Monte Carlo Turbo at Amelia Island [22 Photos]

This Group 5 rally racer won the WRC championship in the silhouette category for two years running for 1980 and 1981. It was a bleeding-edge technological showpiece that ran a carbonfiber chassis and part-kevlar bodywork. Great to meet this stunner at the Amelia Island Concours 2017, where it actually lives locally in the stunning collection of John Campion. We had the pleasure of seeing its home garage before the concours and almost had to sit down from excitement. So much Martini Racing and so many authentic Lancia race-winners! The Beta Monte Carlo turbo’s most dramatic angle and aero needs came …

Mar 21, 2017 Read more

1965 Prince INFINITI R380 – First-Ever USA Show for Porsche-Beating Racer [50 Photos]

Infiniti has adopted the design and sports credentials of the Prince marque from its glory days of the 1950s and 1960s. The firm is best known for creating the Skyline and was acquired by Nissan in 1966 — the same year a pair of these stunning, magnificent beasts took one-two in the Japanese Grand Prix. It was a pride match for the locals in Japan. Porsche 904s and 906s beating Skyline front-engine racers on Japanese tracks that inspired the entire vehicle. Mid-engine endurance racer. With a 1964 Brabham spaceframe to start from, the company crafted its ultra-shrieking straight six making 200 …

Mar 14, 2017 Read more

2018 Mercedes-AMG GTR x Marauder AMG Twins for Miami Boat Show

The new AMG Marauder 50-foot race-boat will need to be extra special to upstage the 2018 AMG GTR! This hottest-ever AMG GT is a personal favorite thanks to its stunning design and performance. Being bright green helps us go from like to LOVE. Here is the release for the cigarette racing collaboration – plus the launch image pack for the GTR. 2018 Mercedes-AMG GT R Driving Performance on land and on the water Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing celebrate 10 years of collaboration by unveiling the stunning new 2017 50′ Marauder AMG inspired by the Mercedes-AMG GT R Feb 16, …

Feb 17, 2017 Read more

2017 BMW M6 GTLM – 19th BMW Art Car by John Baldessari Will Race DAYTONA

The BMW Art cars are best as real-world racers. Taking corners in a future legend has appeal today just like it did when the first BMW Art Car emerged from the Paris office around 1973. This latest racing artwork, the 19th in the series? A 2017 M6 GTLM, naturally. The biggest, baddest BMW racecar ever made. A vehicle so shouty on throttle that the artist put the letters F A S T right along both flanks. 2017 BMW M6 GTLM – 19th BMW Art Car by John Baldessari World premiere of BMW Art Car by John Baldessari at Art Basel …

Dec 01, 2016 Read more

2017 Mazda RT24-P Revealed Ahead of Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona

I love endurance prototype racecars. They take truly concept-level ingenuity in aero and grip to the streets. Well, to the road courses and banked ovals of the racing circuits! This new RT24-P from Mazda is a pretty magnificent specimen for blending on-brand design cues with the mandates of any race class. The RT24-P is designed to dominate the top class of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship — a new class called DPi, for Daytona Prototype International. Certainly not quick or catchy names in this new series. But hey, it is an endurance challenge! The RT24-P name itself means the “Road …

Nov 23, 2016 Read more

Hardtop Jannarelly JD1 Headlines Upcoming RISE: Race The Future Console Game

Our lovefest with the Jannarelly JD1 continues today with a look at the car as a hardtop racer versus a street-legal roadster. Similar to how the car would be specced for an FIA GT3 or GT4 race class, this preview is of both the car and the game! RISE: Race The Future is set for release in a few months. Now, the only question is… shall we call this the JD2? Or JD1 Hardtop? JD1 Daytona?! 2017 Jannarelly JD1 Hardtop RISE: Race The Future is the upcoming video game from the studio VD-DEV renown for their …

Oct 21, 2016 Read more

1962 Ferrari 268 SP by Fantuzzi – RM Monterey 2016 Highlight

One of the first-ever midengine Ferrari racers went across the block in Cali this August. Looks like it was a no-sale, curiously. A high bar was surely set: we’d estimating the reserve was around $25-million. Perhaps 35. So it is still seeking a new home. Home for its freaky beauty, snarky nose intakes and special-prototype LMP1 provenance. Sold or not, we’re elated to see this 1962 268SP in the sunlight in all its glory. RM Sotheby’s Monterey 2016 Lot 240 1962 Ferrari 268 SP by Fantuzzi Chassis no. 0798 Engine no. 0798 Gearbox no. 6 Estimate Available Upon Request Please note that Internet …

Oct 18, 2016 Read more

2016 TOYOTA TUNDRA TRD Pro Trophy Truck – Best in Baja?

Toyota Signs Championship Off-Road Racer BJ Baldwin to Multi-Year Sponsorship Two-Time Baja 1000 Champion Reveals Tundra TRD Pro Trophy Truck at AMA Supercross Finals May 07, 2016 LAS VEGAS, Nevada, May 7, 2016— Before a roaring crowd of AMA Supercross fans, Toyota announced its sponsorship of BJ Baldwin, off-road racing superstar and mastermind behind the successful #Recoil video franchise. “Ballistic” BJ, an off-roader who has won the grueling Baja 1000 twice without the assistance of a second driver, will join Toyota’s diverse roster of sponsored athletes and will field a Tundra TRD Pro Trophy Truck in the SCORE International and …

May 09, 2016 Read more

VIDEO: 2017 Ford Focus RS RX – Project RX Episode 1 – Design and Development

FORD PERFORMANCE RELEASES “PROJECT RX”: BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE FORD FOCUS RS RX DEVELOPMENT SUMMARY The Ford Focus RS RX was designed to be the ultimate rallycross vehicle in the FIA World Rallycross Championship. Collaborating with UK-based M-Sport and Hoonigan Racing Division, Ford Performance engineers implemented the same high-tech instruments and procedures used on production vehicles to develop the Focus RS RX for competition. The first of a four-part documentary, episode one of “Project RX” highlights the design and development of the vehicle between Ford Performance headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, and the M-Sport …

May 02, 2016 Read more

$10 Grand Per Pound! 1968 Ferrari 275 GTS/4 NART Spider = 821 New Miatas?!

This Ferrari tops the estimate lists of the upcoming RM Sotheby’s auction in Monaco next month. The experts predict a total of about 20-million Euros, which comes to about $23-million in US monies. The scale and performance of this V12 icon are remarkably close to a 2016 MX-5 Mazda Miata. So we thought it would be fun to show how much each costs per pound. The results are shocking, to say the least. First off, the Miata is about 12 bucks a pound. It weighs 100 pounds more than the Ferrari, but costs only about $28k in total. If we …

Apr 29, 2016 Read more

Kiawah 2016 Highlights – 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder – Ingram Collection

An authenticity check is very helpful before falling in love with the first 550 Spyder you find out in the real world! And once you find that original, you have to drink in its details throughout. Smoother than a porcelain lion-claw bathtub, with aircraft rivets throughout its cabin and even lightweight drilled mechanicals. Check out that handbrake! The holes reduced its total weight. The carved-out rear decklid is perhaps just as striking as the vehicle’s tiny size. Between the semi-sharp rear fender-tops, the rear metal sinks deep and low to the ground. Stunning. Kiawah 2016 Highlights – 1955 Porsche 550 …

Apr 18, 2016 Read more

Kiawah Concours 2016 – 1990 Jaguar R9R aka XJR-15

This R9R Jaguar looks absolutely current next to cars 25 years younger. That might be the vehicle’s huge achievment over the XJ220 that would follow this 50-unit special’s production run in the early 1990s. The XJR-15 as shown here also delivered on some goals the XJ220 could not. Primarily, running a 450HP V12 midship, while the XJ220 reverted to a turbo six after the big 12-cylinder could not be fit in its giant tail section, somehow. Kiawah Concours 2016 – 1990 Jaguar R9R aka XJR-15

Apr 17, 2016 Read more

Gran Turismo Red Bull X2014 Fan Car – Genius Racer… Now in 4D, Desktop Size

Red Bull’s prototype racecars for Gran Turismo are some of the most influential looks at the future of racing, and have been since the X2010 and X2014 challenges. A four-pack of concept vehicles was the result of those efforts, with the machines raceable in the game. Because GT5 and GT6 have such intense details in their physics simulator algorithms, you really can get a sense of each vehicle’s strengths and weaknesses on track. You become extremely familiar with their behavior at the limit — like a true racing scenario. It sounds like a cliche to say, but GT6 is that …

Apr 12, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 – 1971 March 711 F1 Car – Scored Second-Place in Monaco Gran Prix

What March lacks today in brand recognition, it more than made up for in its prime via engineering brilliance. You even get that sense looking at this F1 racer today. Its aero is intense, but not a defining element of the car. The glory in the March 711 would be mostly left to driver skill. Massive rubber all around was the key to rapid corner exits for this car, much more than its primitive wings in the nose and tail. The oval aero plane in front earned the nickname Spitfire as well as ‘tea tray’ out on the GP circuit. While …

Apr 11, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 – 1969 MG MGC GTS Sebring

Generally speaking, the more acronyms after a car’s name the better. It usually means it is some rare, high-performance variant that may or may not have even been road-legal. And the best possible indication that speed is a sure thing? If that long name ends with a famous racetrack! Think 599 GTB Fiorano, 365GTB/4 Daytona… This MGC GTS Sebring is the most intense MG we’ve ever laid eyes on! The black and gold livery is lovely, as is the widebody, wide rubber and wide-open throttle in this featherweight slugger. 1969 MG MGC GTS Sebring RM Sotheby’s Monaco 14 …

Apr 11, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 – 1993 Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato

The Roadster Zagato is perhaps even more unique and special than its SZ (Sprint Zagato) hardtop sibling! The styling is truly otherworldly for a production model. Performance was pretty brisk, too. A 210HP V6 drove the back wheels via a five-speed transaxle, ensuring good traction and weight distribution. 1993 Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato RM Sotheby’s Monaco 14 May 2016 1993 Alfa Romeo RZ by Zagato Without Reserve Chassis no. ZAR16200003002164 Serial no. 145 Engine no. AK5150100138 Photo Credit: Tim Scott ©2016 Courtesy of RM Sotheby’s Type ES-30. 210 bhp, 2,959 cc DOHC V-6 engine with electronic fuel injection, five-speed …

Apr 11, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 – 1965 Fiat 600 Multipla – First 7-Seat Minivan?

No reserve for the auction of this delightful Fiat Multipla in cobalt blue over white. The origins of the minivan are widely debated, but this three-row machine is damn close to nailing the template. Albeit with rear-engine, rear-drive layout. That engine in the trunk would be a godsend for summer vacations — where a front-engine car’s tremendous heat would have the cabin near-boiling after a few hours on the autostrada. 1965 Fiat 600 Multipla RM Sotheby’s Monaco 14 May 2016 1965 Fiat 600 Multipla Without Reserve Chassis no. 100D.108 126736 Engine no. 100D.008 4541 Photo Credit: Tim Scott ©2016 Courtesy …

Apr 11, 2016 Read more

Behind the Lens with Camden Thrasher! David Arnouts Interviews Famous Race Photog

Race Photographer Camden Thrasher tells CRD’s David Arnouts about all the blood, sweat and tears that go into capturing iconic motorsport moments. Question: You’ve just recently wrapped up Sebring, how is the excitement for the season building up? Personally is there anything specific you enjoyed most about the race? Thrasher: I’m a big fan of endurance events, especially ones with great racing like the Daytona finish for Corvette Racing, then followed up by the competition in Sebring; it’s a great way to start the season. To actually be there, to experience it, and shoot (photos of) it is awesome. Even cooler is …

Apr 08, 2016 Read more

RoboRace Launches Driverless Formula E Series – Signs Daniel Simon as Lead Designer

Formula E is quite a hit so far, with a global schedule and many new entries for the 2016 and 2017 seasons. Even Jaguar is signed up for next year! These McLaren-powered electric racecars have overcome much skepticism already as a green F1 rival. And they are taking things much further today. RoboRace. RoboCar. RoboWin!? Daniel Simon is kindof an asshole but is a genius designer. His book Cosmic Motors is visually outstanding, if VERY light on actual story value or depth of universe. Put it this way: if it were a PDF, you’d be through it in under 90 …

Mar 31, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 – 1961 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I Works Rally

You are a rare, delicate flower. Yes. This is widely known. But you are nowhere near as rare — or well-preserved! — as this rally-winning Austin Healey 3000! =] RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1961 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I Works Rally

Mar 29, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 – 1928 Bugatti Type 40 Boattail Speedster

It is hard to fathom sometimes that cars like this are sitting quietly in wealthy garages around the world. Museum-quality icon or 1993 Mercury Sable? Which shall we drive today, honey? RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1928 Bugatti Type 40 Boattail Speedster

Mar 29, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 Chevron B36 LMP1 Spider

This was the magnificent time in top-drawer auto racing where the wedge came to life. Sideways on track, spitting flames from their open rear ends! It was intuitive, low-tech aero. But race-proven and glorious to behold, then as now. The LMP1 and SPider descriptors above are ours – the car actually competed in primarily North American Can-Am races, we believe. But the sentiment and bleeding-edge tech certainly makes it LeMans worthy — whatever the classes were dubbed in 1977. RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 …

Mar 29, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 MV Agusta 750S America

This is beyond even the rush of speed, the sun in your face and a mechanical symphony down below. This MV Augusta 750S America has crossed over — into true art. It may be recalled as one of the purest expressions in all of 20th-century design and engineering. RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1977 MV Agusta 750S America

Mar 29, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 – 2004 Aston Martin DB AR1 by Zagato

There are no words deeper than this Beluga black Aston DB AR1. RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ 2004 Aston Martin DB AR1 by Zagato

Mar 29, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 – 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 1 Group B

Fabulous Pug and beautiful livery — this may be a top earner for all-time Peugeots at auction. RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ 1984 Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Evolution 1 Group B

Mar 29, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 – 1982 Renault 5 Turbo Group 4 Rally Car

No, we do not just put together these auction pieces when too distracted or tired to write up a full piece. And we resent the implication! Okay, there might be some truth to that. But these cars are special enough to warrant a post– with or without color commentary.. RM Sotheby’s Monaco Coinciding with the Monaco Historic Grand Prix Le Sporting Monte-Carlo, Monaco 14 May 2016 http://www.rmsothebys.com/mc16/monaco/lots/ RM Monaco 2016 – 1982 Renault 5 Turbo Group 4 Rally Car

Mar 29, 2016 Read more

900HP, ~1.7s 2016 Porsche 919 Hybrid – Upgraded Aero, Revised 400HP eBoost Detailed

Porsche is keeping its cards close to their chest entering the 2016 FIA WEC race series, with numerous tweaks to the car all shrouded in a bit of mystery. Per usual, then, for the 2015 LeMans winners! The rules have changed for the top LMP1 race class in 2016, allowing even less gasoline in the overall mix, but upping the amount of electric power teams can use. As such, the 2.0-liter V4 turbo engine in the 919 Hybrid makes less power than last year in most circumstances: from “well above” 500HP to “below 500HP.” Opaque enough for you? =] Total power …

Mar 27, 2016 Read more

2016 Toyota TS050 Hybrid – World Debut at HTTT – New V6TT, 1000HP eAWD Racecar

Toyota GAZOO racing just revealed its 2016 competitor for the highest honor in racing: the WEC LeMans series. This TS050 might look familiar but is packing some radical changes throughout. The most crucial appears to be a swap to direct-injection for an all-new 2.4-liter V6TT providing the main power to the back wheels. The other big change is a move from supercapacitors for the regen braking to a more conventional, and much higher-output, lithium-ion battery pack system. Toyota calls the new power pack the 8MJ, and notes it required a full redesign of the entire vehicle, including the transaxle transmission …

Mar 27, 2016 Read more

2017 Acura NSX GT3 – V6TT, RWD Racecar is FIA-Ready (+Video)

Acura just ripped the covers off its fully race-ready NSX GT3 racecar in New York. And the most intriguing elements of the machine? Perhaps the total drivetrain revamp versus the AWD, triple-motor SH-AWD production model. FIA GT3 rules do not have a hybrid slot yet, so this NSX GT3 swaps its clever electric motors for pure turbocharged thrust. The main engine is the same as the production NSX, but the rear-drive conversion brings in a sequential six-speed paddle-shifter and likely some very clever racing differential tech. Acura plans to race this car in FIA GT3 classes starting in fall 2016, …

Mar 23, 2016 Read more

Design Talent Showcase – Alfa Romeo AW30 by Olcay Tuncay Karabulut

Some fantastic, out-of-this-world designs to feature today from Turkey! Olcay Karabulut’s Alfa Romeo AW30 design takes a look into the future of renewable-powered racecars. And not just coal-fired EVs… this AW30 hopes to hit 200-mph around the world’s racetracks thanks to two constants: sun and wind. The solar component is intended as the solution under 100-mph, after which it synthesizes energy via dedicated turbines. This might sound far-fetched, but is certainly worth exploring. If only for the unique design solutions it inspired. The proportions take a radical shift: much longer and lower than current F1 cars. Next, the intakes …

Mar 15, 2016 Read more

Inside the Dream Factory – McLaren Track22 Product Roadmap

McLaren Automotive is a clear favorite in the supercar world. Just look at the rocket-like launch trajectory of the firm in just six years! It is causing serious pain to rivals Ferrari and Lamborghini, all while delivering great pleasure to its growing owner base. The launches come fast and furious from Woking, however, and it can be confusing. Or, just irritating… depending on how recently your new McLaren was superseded by an even newer, hotter model. So it is good to hear that there is method to the rapid product rollouts, ultra-short model cycles of McLaren Cars. Track22 is what McLaren …

Mar 15, 2016 Read more

2016 McLaren 570S GT4 and Sprint Unleash Extreme Aero, De-Luxed Cabins

McLaren just revealed its racecar versions of the new 570S: the FIA-approved GT4 model that is ready to go racing worldwide right from the factory. And the real star? The 570S Sprint~! The Sprint is our favorite because it is so pure. The GT4 car’s aero upgrades, de-restricted engine and exhausts, Pirelli slicks and beefed-up race suspension…. but without the GT4’s standard roll cage, fire extinguisher and other mandatory elements. Such things like power restrictors are needed for the GT4 class… but not in the 570S Sprint! That means less weight for trackday individuals versus race teams. Estimated weight …

Mar 15, 2016 Read more

Dream Garage – Superformance LOLA MkIII Can-Am Spyders

Lola racecars are extremely special for their value-for-money today, racing pedigree, and also their incredibly timeless grace and beauty. This was a racing team directly formed in the late 1950s with one goal: build a car from scratch to win LeMans. The resulting semi-monocoque chassis design – now known as a unibody – was revolutionary at the time of frame-based racers from nearly every other racing company and nearly every single road car. A semi-monocoque? Oh yes. The other part is also pretty advanced for the time: a steel spaceframe for the engine and rear suspension cradle. In fact, the …

Mar 12, 2016 Read more

1000HP 2017 APOLLO ARROW – Full Tech Specs, Animations and 50 Photos

Hypercar buyers are spoiled for choice these days. But the Apollo Arrow warrants a second look even among Chiron deposit-holders. Apollo is an all-new expression of the Gumpert brand and core knowledge. The relaunch was in January and the coming-out party definitely in Geneva! Power and performance are insane. Race-ready — for real. The car is FIA-homologated for numerous race classes in exactly the same spec as the Euro road-legal stunner. Airjacks and roll cages included! But let’s take a closer look first at the obviously hot, shamelessly whipped and sliced new design. From the front it catches you by surprise. …

Mar 06, 2016 Read more

2017 Abarth 124 Spider – Boosted Turbo, Shouty Exhaust and Butch Body Mods

Stunning new Fiat from Abarth at Geneva this year — proving the in-house tuner is still a big asset in the brand’s expansion worldwide. The Mirafiori speed demons have wasted no time upgrading the design, performance and panache of the adorable baby Fiat: the new 124 Spider. From its cute looks emerges yet another harsh, focused look at what Abarth does best. The scorpion logo makes sense the first time you fire up one of their specials: pops and brummy exhaust and engine notes that recall Maserati much more than Mazda. Then you turn to see… and are shocked that …

Mar 06, 2016 Read more

Best of Geneva – 2016 Abarth 124 Rally Prototype – 300HP Kicks Off 2017 Abarth Racing Revival

In case the hot new Abarth Fiat 124 Spider were not enough to get your heart revving, Abarth Racing has brought along an even hotter version! A rear-drive rally racecar that started life as a ragtop!? Sounds like a winner to us. And it definitely looks like a winner too. A slightly raised ride height, boosted engine putting down 300Hp, plus a locking rear differential promise exciting, tail-out action to rally fans next year. Custom fender extensions, sill extensions and brake air vents behind the back axle speak to this car’s gravel-slinging dreams. As does its gigantic, fire-spitting single …

Mar 06, 2016 Read more

1951 Ferrari 340 America Barchetta by Touring – Surviving RHD LeMans Racer Shows Humble Origins

How far Ferrari has come! What started out with a genius 2.0-liter V12 engine that was ultra compact yet also super powerful. The engine roared its way to the top of the racing world by the end of the 1950s, and on to a 5-billion-dollar IPO for just a slim minority of the firm’s shares in 2015? Now a global luxury juggernaut with brand recognition to rival Coca-Cola, and desirability up there with Apple? Yes to all. And quite a rare display of modesty and humility from Ferrari. It is intriguing to see how basic and workmanlike the first few …

Feb 29, 2016 Read more

RM Monaco 2016 Preview – 1997 Porsche 911 GT1 Evolution – Animated Bodywork Peelaways

The 911 GT1 Evo is a rare sight indeed, and especially so with its bodywork intricately removed for a photo session. This Evo version of the GT1 LeMans prototype integrated the new 996-generation front lamps, and a slightly revised tail over its first year on the track in 1996. 1997 Porsche 911 GT1 Evolution RM Sotheby’s Monaco 2016 1997 Porsche 911 GT1 Evolution Chassis no. GT1 993-117 Engine no. M86/60-109 Gearbox no. G96/80/117 Photo Credit: Chris Wilson ©2016 Courtesy of RM Sotheby’s

Feb 28, 2016 Read more

1986 Lotus 98T/3 F1 Car of Ayrton Senna – Animated 3D Cutaway by Roy Scorer, Tech Illustrator Extraordinaire

Ed’s Intro: Please welcome a brilliant new contributor: Roy Scorer. Roy shares a detailed, step-by-step demonstration of his artistic process here — and it is a fascinating display, indeed! Why is this all so special? Let’s zoom out for a moment, and know that even in 2016 and with unlimited processing power… 3D ‘cutaway’ technical illustrations of a car’s engine, chassis and mechanicals are all done by hand. CAD-CAM etc is lovely for surface details, but is singular in that purpose. To actually “see” inside a car takes near-surreal understanding of every component, from every angle. Even after photographing …

Feb 23, 2016 Read more

2016 Aston Martin V8 Vantage GTE Complements V12 Racecars; Dismal Results Expected

Oh, poor Aston. Just after the DB11 leaked online the other day, we have a fresh look at the factory race team’s 2016 endurance racing competitor: a heavily revised V8 Vantage GTE. This new entry complements a pair of V12 Vantages that are already on the docket for the Nurburgring 24H race later this Springtime. But woe is me. This car just can’t seem to catch a break. Long ago, other race teams would have packed it in, headed home and nursed their wounds. Only to return once ready to compete. Not Aston. They have stayed in the racing circuit …

Feb 19, 2016 Read more

2016 Porsche 911 GT3 R – Road Car, Daytona Racer + Christophorus ‘Black Magic’ Sebring Test Feature

The official Porsche magazine Christophorus has a terrific piece in their latest issue about the shakedown testing of the heavily-revised 2016 Porsche 911 GT3 R around the hot, humid Sebring racetrack in Florida. Dubbed ‘Black Magic,’ the article follows the Porsche customer racing team through a marathon 30-hour race test late in calendar 2015 — ahead of the car’s entry into numerous race series worldwide in 2016. We’re excited to share the unpainted test car in its raw glory — but also some extra cool perspective on the 2016 GT3 R endurance racecar. What is that? A few snaps of the …

Feb 15, 2016 Read more

2016 Toyota RAV4 SE Launches Silver-Accented Style, New RALLY RACECAR!

Famed race driver Ryan Millen has adopted a hell of a challenge for 2016! Race to win in a front-wheel-drive RAV4 SE using a bone-stock 2.5-liter four-cylinder making just 176 horsepower. Millen and his co-pilot (fiancé Christine!) seem like the perfect ambassadors for a Rav4 racing adventure. He will man the controls as she co-drives with extremely detailed trail notes all along the way. Such limited power and traction in the 2WD-Open Class take much of the mechanical innovations out of the normal WRC race calculus. The races then become much more about driver skill, unbreakable reliability and extreme co-driver directions. …

Feb 11, 2016 Read more

2016 BMW M2 MotoGP Pacecar Debuts with Carbon M Performance Parts

The new M2 is taking over MotoGP safety car duties from the 2015 M4 — and looks even more badass in the M livery! Check out how the red stripe lines the massive new intake fangs. Gold wheels, a roll cage, M Performance Parts in carbon-fiber and a few other tweaks round out a gorgeous and dreamy style. 2016 BMW M2 MotoGP Pacecar BMW M – OFFICIAL CAR OF MotoGP™. BMW M2 MotoGP SAFETY CAR. MotoGP and BMW M Division: these two partners have formed an ideal combination for almost two decades. MotoGP is the pinnacle of motorcycle …

Feb 09, 2016 Read more

Top 10 SUPRA-Tastic Design Details – Toyota FT-1 Concept + 88 NEW Photos

NEW FT-1 photos? Yes ALL NEW…? Sortof. We posted these originally on laptop in Santa Cruz, and the results were iffy. So we went back to the originals, starting again and bringing the FT-1’s details to high-res glory! The most striking things about the FT-1 in person are its captivating beauty, extremely long-hooded proportions, and intense aero detailing. A stunning car. Let’s appreciate its top 10 design details from up close. The design of the FT-1 is visibly alive. Functional ventwort in a dozen places around all side brings the wild, swooping fenders and hood into sharp relief. The aero cuts and ground-effect details make …

Feb 07, 2016 Read more

2016 McLaren 650S GT3 SWEEPS Bathhurst Debut! But Race Photos Are 70s Sepia Hell

Always great to launch an updated racecar with a first-place finish in its debut! That’s the story with the new 650S GT3, which just won the Bathhurst 12 Hour. And not just won: the car destroyed its rivals. McLaren sums it up well… “650S GT3 claimed the clean sweep over the course of the weekend with pole position, fastest lap, overall race win and a new lap record.” Hard to beat that concise summary of the new 650S GT3’s debut glories. Almost as hard as it will be for its GT3 rivals. ONE PROBLEM: McLaren GT’s Over-processed Photos …

Feb 07, 2016 Read more

rELAX yOUR jAW! DS VIRGIN Scores First SeXY ePRIX Win! Formula E Action GIFs + Private Track Practice Video

You got dreams? We got dreams. You got big budget, and passion too? How big? Yes indeed. To both. Welcome to DS Virgin Racing! The crew at DS Virgin racing are popping bottles tonight down in Buenos Aires. Bottles of Dom as well as Deep Woods! Thrilled to welcome Virgin into the racer’s winner’s circle. Upon a scratch to the surface of the new Citroen DS Automobiles racing venture, your scribe found a virtual fountain of youth. Everything one could ever dream of is available for media-digitization. Hence, the three=hour love affair that is leaving my two …

Feb 06, 2016 Read more

2016 McLaren 650S GT3 – Geneva Prelaunch + Photo Comparo Insights vs. 2015 Racecar

GT3 is the closest thing we have to an authentic battle-of-the-supercars — and demands a great amount of manufacturer attention. The learnings on track with these cars are some of the quickest tech intros to road cars. Advancements in aero and drivetrain behaviour on track actually translate directly to a street superstar — without just the lip service most race series pay to this tech transfer. And best of all, it is a two-way street. Better turbo and cooling settings on the road for the 675LT have fed directly into the updated 2016 racecar from McLaren GT. McLaren below confirms …

Feb 06, 2016 Read more

2016 Toyota GAZOO Racecars & Series Preview – New TS050 LMP1 Revamp, WRC Yarii + New C-HR Racing and RC GT3

Toyota Motorsport GmbH is now Toyota GAZOO Racing — with the new Euro-based entity bringing much of Toyota and Lexus’ racing efforts under one roof. The 2016 season outline is mindboggling! Lots of new racecars and globetrotting race series. We have a look at new rally cars: — Land Cruiser rally truck — Yaris WRC — Yaris GRMN — GT86 And new endurance racers in the form of two upgraded Lexus RC’s, a GT86 and even a new Nurbirgring entry for this year: the C-HR Racing. No sight of this production version of the concept seen in 2015, nor …

Feb 06, 2016 Read more

2017 FORD F-150 RAPTOR – 2016 Event Schedule + 33 New Race-Spec GIFs!

Check out the 10-speed turbonator in ‘factory stock’ race spec! You can here, and see it do its debut jumps at the below race dates. Check out the latest 60 pics of the production 2017 Raptor in the lower gallery too. First deliveries? By December first is the rumor…. =] Dates and locations to catch F-150 Raptor racing events this year are as follows: Parker 425, Parker, Arizona, Feb. 4-7 Mint 400, Las Vegas, March 10-14 Laughlin Desert Classic, Laughlin, Nevada, May 5 Vegas to Reno, Nevada, Aug. 17-20 Bluewater Challenge, Parker, Arizona, Sept. 10-Oct. 6 Pahrump Nugget 250, Pahrump, …

Feb 05, 2016 Read more

Got Grip? Red Bull F1 Car On Snowchains Rips Up Tyrol, Austria Ski Slopes

You really have to stand back and admire Red Bull sometimes. From a category-defining launch product — a carbonated and canned version of a centuries-old Asian ‘shot’ typically slammed ahead of business meetings — the company has become one of the most iconic sports marketing phenomenons in history. These days, you can love Red Bull for its media empire as much as its new sugar-free flavor specials. Every type of sport has a Red Bull tie-in for 2016, but few are as high-profile as the F1 racing team. How to bring some levity and playfulness back to the slightly down-trodden race …

Feb 04, 2016 Read more

RENAULT SPORT Signs INFINITI and Bell & Ross for 2016 F1 Reboot

This one is a triple play! Renault Sport just outlined its new F1 effort: with the backing of two inhouse favorites: Infiniti and Bell & Ross watches. Infiniti is transitioning from its previous title sponsorship of the Red Bull Racing crew over to Renault, which recently focused on making and selling F1 engines only. This engine-only focus tossed out many years of Renault-branded F1 cars from the 1970s through the 1990s. Renault Sport is now fielding their own Formula One team proper, and is leaning on Infiniti for help with their hybridization efforts. This comes down to the ERS (energy recovery …

Feb 03, 2016 Read more

Daytona Icons Gallery – 1974 Porsche 911 Carrera IROC RSR

Just a gallery and fly-around GIF for this beauty. Feeling rather defeated today. 1974 Porsche 911 Carrera IROC RSR

Feb 01, 2016 Read more

1964 SHELBY COBRA DAYTONA 24H Coupe – Reborn from 1965 Bonneville World Speed Record-Holder

Few better ways to kick off the 2016 Daytona 24-Hour race this weekend than to meet one of the all-time greats! The Shelby Cobra Coupe had no official name when it took the grid for this grueling 1964 race — then the fastest in the world. But being designed and prepped for this track earned the Daytona Coupe its forever name the moment it started leading the race. This car is *exactly* like the Shelby that took the green flag around Daytona, but bowed out after an engine fire. That Daytona Coupe no longer wears the medium blue metallic over …

Jan 31, 2016 Read more

Daytona Icons – Jaegermeister 1979 Porsche 935 K3 Kremer

I don’t care how many racecars or exotics you have driven or loved. Nothing in this universe can prepare you for the Kremer 935 K3 Porsche. The fire-spitting widebody raced at the Daytona 24-hour in 1981 after two years of fine-tuning in German race series. There, the original 911 under all the bespoke bodywork became virtually unrecognizable. Drilled lightweighting, massive widebody additions, ground-effect aero, slatted and active aero vents across the entire slantnose. And that is just the front! Around back, the flared fenders with their integrated winglets on top come into view. Or the magnesium-alloy BBS wheels with …

Jan 31, 2016 Read more

2016 Dodge VIPER ACR – Bondurant Black Mamba

Updated 1.31.16 Just drove the 2016 Viper GT on track and am still in V10 nirvana. But there is a new king in the Viper range: the road-legal American Club Racer. Seeing the car in person is a jaw-dropping experience — this exterior is the coolest supercar since the TVR Sagaris! Huge new fender vent slashes, a underbody fully shrouded with air channels, and a nose and tail treatment more aggressive than even the wildest tuners can make real. Let alone make for sale as a $20k option! 2016 Dodge VIPER ACR – Bondurant Black 2016 Dodge VIPER ACR PREVIOUS …

Jan 31, 2016 Read more

RM Arizona 2016 – 1963 Shelby 289 Cobra DRAGONSNAKE

Quite a few gorgeous classics included in a row. These are a bit of a niche interest among readers… we know you guys prefer 2016-2020 models far more than these oldie foldies. Here is one to get you young bucks back onboard: the most successful dragracing Shelby Cobra of all time! Certainly, the Cobra is best known for its circuit racing and international endurance racing prowess. But it turns of the delicate-looking original 289 Cobra was also a world-beater on the dragstrips of the USA. So light, so grippy and so powerful…. literally nothing could keep up with this fuchsia …

Jan 29, 2016 Read more

Mecum 2016 Favorite – 2012 Factory Five GTM Road Special Is Mid-Engine Vette!

If you ever wondered why Chevy flirts with a mid-engine Corvette so regularly… here is proof positive. The concept works. The concept works. The sum of stock Corvette parts flipped to mid-engine is a race-winning car right out of the box. Fast barely begins to capture the experience. This 2013 GTM Special is the car we most wanted to rip away from the Mecum auction lineup for 2016! 2012 Factory Five GTM Road Special Mecum Auctions Lot F276// Kissimmee 2016 // Jan 15-24 2012 Factory Five GTM LS3/480 HP, 5-Speed Engine LS3/480 HP Trans 5-Speed Color Red Interior …

Jan 23, 2016 Read more

2016 Faraday Future FFZERO1 Concept Throws Down Gauntlet – Now or Never, Laggards

Well, this is it! Nearly 24 hours after the leaks began, and a full 12 since the press conference in Vegas last night, the Faraday Future concept car for CES is now in clear focus. Before you get too excited about a full reveal — with the normal specs, pricing and a production roadmap —it is best to temper expectations. This fantasy concept from Faraday Future is not headed for the road. Nor is it really headed for any race series. But racetracks? That is another story. The quad-motor, AWD EV promises 1000+ horsepower and a 200-mph-plus top speed. The electric motors are …

Jan 05, 2016 Read more

DAKAR 2016 – Prologue and First Stage Gallery – Red Bull PEUGEOT-TOTAL DKR16

Dakar got off to a fairly rough start this year: a big crash canceled the timed events of the Trucks class, while a smaller incident saw the four-time defending champion MINI Countryman careen off the course and injure multiple spectators. Reuters and AP report a father and son were seriously hurt and are in serious condition. The MINI driver was the first female driver from China, and she also sustained injuries. Initial reports are of a hard jump landing and subsequent loss of control of the vehicle. This was always a very, very dangerous race. And at least these traumatic events …

Jan 03, 2016 Read more

Meet the Original Black Swan: The McLaren M1

Wow. There is a reason you have not seen or heard many of these killer McLaren racecars. The original McLaren origin story as a driver who starts his own race shop, and sells a few chips of genius to other enthusiasts and race crews. Refined and stiffened over the M1A, the B is one of the most sought-after of its era. Just 28 of these M1B Can-Am cars were sold to be raced in the Can-Am racing series. The North American market was obviously the focus of these races, so the fact that just 28 were ever sold makes this …

Dec 30, 2015 Read more

2017 Jannarelly Design JD1 is All-New, Rear-Engine Exotic from Talent Behind LYKAN HyperSport and Zarooq Sandracer

WHat happens when two of the most skilled talents in bespoke supercars come together? Fusing design vision, carbon-fiber production and a bit of marketing magic? The JD1 from Jannarelly Design! This is a fantastic bit of absolutely breaking news: Anthony Jannarelly is a clear favorite of ours since obsessing over his crisp, layered aesthetic as seen on the W Motors Lykan and Fenyr, plus the recently-revealed Zarooq SandRacer. This new venture pairs Jannarelly with Frederic Juillot, lead at Equation Composite, to make their own supercar vision a reality. A look behind the curtain of the two Frenchmen’s lives shows that their …

Dec 19, 2015 Read more

JAGUAR Joins Formula E to Perfect Electric Skills and Thrills

Pretty cool news today from Jaguar! The firm has officially signed on to race in FIA Formula E for the 2017 season. This means the team will have almost a full year to perfect their car and study the second season of the series for competitive insights. The Formula E teams all share a dedicated power unit supplied by McLaren, so the effort here is about power management, smart charging and overall racing strategy. Jaguar hopes to transfer much of their new EV track learnings back onto the road — but in a manner that matches the firm’s new Art …

Dec 15, 2015 Read more

1973 Dodge Challenger Race Car – Ex-Dale Earnhardt – Saturday Night Special By PETTY

Our previous attempts at chronicling NASCAR history and Petty racecars have been pretty shoddy — so please see the full Mecum Auctions writeup below the AMAZING photo set here. Fast facts are: — this is believed to be the only 1973 Petty-built racecar still surviving — entered circuit for the ’74 season, and was raced until the late 1980s — original driver? None other than Dale Earnhardt The most shocking detail? The price estimate of $40k to $80k! Another semi interesting tidbit? There seems to be a possible ‘special mode’ — or something — right above the gauge bezels. Some …

Dec 13, 2015 Read more

McLaren MP4-X Detailed – Fascinating 2025 F1 Car Prototype Re-imagines Everything

This is much more than just a set of fantasy closed-cockpit renderings, as we first thought. This is a deeply interesting revision of the F1 racecar theme — so advanced that it might not just replace the current open-wheeled racers. It might be even more fascinating to watch run alongside them in an alternative race class! Call it FX1? Whatever the case, this official MP4-X concept car from McLaren Applied Technologies is a chock full of applicable design elements that could be racing tomorrow, if the circumstances allowed. The most noticeable change right off the bat is the closed and …

Dec 08, 2015 Read more

F1 NewsBriefs: INFINITI and Red Bull Are Dunzo; Texas 2016 GP On Hold in Contract Dispute

Update: Reports indicate TAG Heuer and Renault will be the title sponsors of the TAG-Red Bull Racing effort in 2016. Woooowww…. This is pretty intense news wrapped in mature, civilized corporate speech. Infiniti and Red Bull have broken up their world-beating Formula One partnership — effective immediately. Who ended it? That remains confidential, but it is safe to say both firms were unhappy to have their four-year winning streak so violently nabbed by Mercedes-AMG since 2013. The original INFINITI sponsorship agreement was actually a huge marketing coup at the time. INFINITI was going global and spreading its wings far …

Dec 07, 2015 Read more

TrendWatch – Stenciled Tires Escape Racetrack, Sex Up Ferrari and Porsche Road Cars

Here is a trend that looks set to expand bigtime in the next few years: race-branded tire sidewalls! This trend is really in the early stages of the curve — like dark wheels were in 2007 or 2008. The only production car we can think of featuring loud tire letters and colors so far is the Lamborghini Aventador Pirelli Edition, but more are surely on the way from OEM supercar brands and tire companies alike. Until then, the real tastemakers are taking matters into their own hands. These two stunning white exotics are extensively customized by GT Auto Concepts of …

Dec 04, 2015 Read more

2015 Bentley GT3 Soaks Up Fearless/Fearsome B-Boy Spirit with 1930 Birkin Blower LeMans Icon

Trading paint on a racetrack has always been precarious for all involved. But for open-wheeled racecars like today’s F1 or Indy cars, any contact is almost instantly catastrophic. First you lose grip, then if the car goes sideways or airborn even a tiny bit, you lose all downforce. The results of a track clash were even more stark in the early days of Le Mans racing. Racing back in the day was 1000X more dangerous than today — so just imagine the balls it would take to pass a race-leading Mercedes-Benz on the side grass of the Mulsanne straight! That …

Dec 03, 2015 Read more

2016 Audi R8 LMS – New Open-Aero Design Analysis, Specs and Pricing

The new R8 is big news, of course, for supercar shoppers. Three models are set for the US range: the R8, R8 V10 and R8 V10 Plus. All sport AWD as standard and curb weights of 3500- and 3600-pounds. America will miss out on the limited-release R8 E-Tron but we will definitely see the fifth family member: the nearly unbeatable 2016 R8 LMS. This factory racecar is already outselling the existing model among dozens of top-tier sportscar racing teams. The reasons are simple: it is faster than ever thanks to cunning new aero and mechanicals. The biggest changes versus the …

Dec 02, 2015 Read more

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