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Aventador LP700-4 Roadster The ultimate open-air experience
McCormick’s
Palms Springs Collector Car Auction
Exige V6 Cup
The Lotus Exige gets even racier
ZR Exotics’ Ferrari ZXX Supercar superpower
Hamann’s McLaren MP4-12C Exquisitely colorful piece of art
SEMA 2012
Coverage of the premier automotive trade event
Back from the Future
2025 Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Concept
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Automobili Lamborghini presents the new Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 Roadster: the most exciting series production Lamborghini ever built and the new benchmark in the world of open-top luxury super sports cars. On the heels of the successful coupe introduced in Summer 2011, and with over 1,300 units already delivered to customers, the House of the Raging Bull is now offering the convertible version of the Aventador, a vehicle that perfectly balances the ultimate driving experience with the ultimate in sports car sophistication. The new Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster can immediately be recognized by the unique profile of its upper area, which extends along newly designed geometric lines from the removable roof to the engine hood. The Roadster’s design is the result of a careful study into the best way of combining performance, elegant style, ease of use and a driving experience that excites all five senses.
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The two-piece roof is made entirely from carbon fiber using various technologies such as RTM and Forged Composite®. These technologies guarantee maximum aesthetic performance and stiffness although each component is extremely light, weighing less than 6 kg. These two parts are removable, easy to handle, and being lightweight and simple to attach, can be stored in the front luggage compartment. In just a few seconds the Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster can be admired in all its luxurious beauty. The rear pillar has been redesigned to offer total support for the removable roof, accommodate an automatic protection system for passengers, and provide the engine compartment with ample ventilation. Right at first glance, it’s noticeable that the engine hood on the Roadster differs from the hood on the coupé because of its central “spinal column” with two pairs of hexagonal windows connected at the sides as if they were hyper-tech armor plates. Their purpose is to cool
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the engine, drain off rain water properly and, of course, allow the beauty of the V12 power unit to be admired. The driver of the Aventador Roadster and his passenger can decide for themselves how intensely they would like to enjoy the driving experience. The powered rear windshield not only influences the flow of air in the vehicle, but also controls the experience of the sound from the twelvecylinder engine. The wind deflector, on the other hand, delivers almost complete calm inside the car, even at high speed. It rests on the front windshield frame and can likewise be stored in the luggage compartment when not in use. The Aventador Roadster is also equipped with door windows with chamfered edges, which always ensure a perfect fit into the hard-top seal, and underline the sharp side profile of the car. The body of the new Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster sports a two-tone finish, as the windshield pillar, the two roof sections and the rear window area up to the “fins� are painted in gloss black. The visual effect is that of a completely open vehicle with sleek lines combining perfectly balanced sportiness and elegance. The range of colors available for the Roadster has been supplemented with a very light, metallic blue color, Azzuro Thetis, whose tone varies with the angle of the light. This color
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Roadster also features new Dione 20”/21” rims with a daring, aggressive look. Crafted in light forged aluminum, they lower the weight of the vehicle by 22lbs as compared with the standard set of rims. The new Aventador LP700-4 Roadster boasts record performance. It accelerates from 0 to 60 in only 3 seconds flat and has a maximum speed of some 217 mph. These numbers, combined with a drive train featuring a centrally located, 6.5 liter aspirated V12 generating 700 hp, an ISR 7-speed gearbox and push-rod suspension make the new Aventador Roadster a unique super sports car with no direct competition.
recalls the shade of the extraordinarily beautiful 1968 Miura Roadster, and both highlights and reinforces the lines of the vehicle by adding strength and dynamism. Even the interior has a new look. The use of leather called Sabbia Nefertem highlights the superb handmade craftsmanship of the upholstery from Sant’ Agata Bolognese and is a perfect match for the exterior in Azzuro Thetis. Finally, the new Aventador LP 700-4
Of course the Roadster’s V12 also includes a cylinder deactivation system when the engine is working at partial capacity, while the innovative, instant Stop & Start system includes high-performance capacitors known as supercaps to awaken the engine. This is an absolute first in the super sports car segment. The new Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster is a dream that can be realized and ordered at any Lamborghini dealer in the world for the price of $392,000, excluding taxes. •••
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McCORMICK’S – Continues –
RECORD-SETTING
TREND
C
oming off back-toback-to-back recordsetting auctions, McCormick’s Palm Springs Collector Car Auction reached yet another apex this past auction, held November 1618, 2012, with the largest-ever singleday revenue gain in the auction’s 27year history. When compared to last November’s auction, gross revenue, was up nearly 6.5% with $6,126,478 generated.
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22 “Classic cars continue to be a good investment and offer a way for sustained growth for those seeking a way to invest their money outside of the stock market,” comments Keith McCormick, founder of the well-known Palm Springs institution. “And as we saw in this past auction, a car need not be old to be considered a classic and sound investment. Among other modern classics we sold a 2009 MercedesBenz SLR and a 2011 Audi R8.” McCormick’s continues to draw a large number of muscle cars along with resto-mods and what they like to call Palm Springs cars, which include many low-mileage ‘barn finds’ and classic convertibles from all eras. Some notable cars sold included Lot # 200, a 1981 DeLorean “Back to the Future” replica (a crowd favorite) sold
for $44,867; Lot # 198, a 2005 Mercedes McLaren SLR sold for $188,409, Lot 187; a 1968 Volkswagen 21 window bus sold for $66,228; Lot 188, a 1963 Porsche 356B sold for $46,725; Lot 438 a 1968 Shelby GT350 sold for $78,750 just to name just a few. By the end of the auction 560 lots had crossed the block, with 362 sold to new owners. McCormick’s Palms Springs Collector Car Auction holds two events a year in February and November. The 54th auction is scheduled for February 22, 23 and 24, 2013. To learn more, please visit McCormick’s Collector Car Auction at www.classic-carauction. com or follow McCormick’s news at www.facebook.com/ mccormicksauction.
Having already got the motoring press hot under the collar with production of the road-going Exige S, we are turning up the temperature at this weekend’s Lotus Festival at Brands Hatch with the official launch of a new track-focused model: The Exige V6 Cup. Performance hits 170 mph, 0-100 in 3.8 seconds, and 346hp kicked out from the 3.5 litre supercharged V6 behind the drivers’ seat. The Exige V6 Cup weighs in at 2380 lbs, and comes with Lotus Dynamic Performance Management, so you can switch the engine and traction settings between Touring, Sport and Race; Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo tyres; aerodynamically optimized front splitter, rear diffuser and wing; multi-adjustable suspension; and raceready kit such as a heavy-duty roll cage, 4 or 6-point harnesses, isolator switches, FIA-approved fire extinguisher, tow eyes, removable steering wheel and HANS-compliant race seats. The first cars will roll off the production line in Hethel in December, with an allocation of 20 cars through to March 2013. In addition to hitting circuits the world over in various track days events, the Exige V6 Cup is intended for new and current Lotus Cup series including Lotus Cup UK, Lotus Cup Europe, Lotus Cup Eastern Europe, Lotus Cup Italy, Lotus Cup Japan, and the Lotus Ladies Cup (Hungary). There will be a version for the USA which will be on display at Brands Hatch this weekend. The cars can be purchased through Lotus Cars’ dealer network and direct from Lotus Racing. •••
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There are two variants: a Track Day version priced at ÂŁ62,995* and a full-on Competition-spec car starting at ÂŁ74,995*.
2007 Ferrari F430 F1 Spider Rosso Corsa over Beige Interior. Options include: Red Brake Calipers, Daytona Style Seats, Red Instrument Panel, Scuderia Shields, Black Piping, Roll Bar Upholstery, Daytona Style Seats Stripes in Black and Carbon Fiber Dash Inserts. Contact us at 801.521.0340 or sales@ferrarisales.com. More photos at www. ferrarisales.com. Inquire Today!
2005 Bentley Continental GT Silver over Grey Interior. This is a very nice car that was a recent trade here at the dealership. It is fully equipped with everything that you would expect in a car of this stature. Powered by a 552 HP W12 with all-wheel drive, this car will put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. Contact us at 801.521.0340 or sales@ferrarisales.com. More photos at www. ferrarisales.com. Inquire Today!
2009 Ferrari 599 GTB Nero over Nero Interior. Options include: Leather Upholstery for Seat Backrest, Yellow Brake Calipers, Carboceramic Brake System, Carbon Fiber for Driving Zone, Carbon Fiber for Lower Cabin Zone, Daytona Style Seats, Homelink, Yellow Instument Panel, Ferrari Ipod, Scuderia Shields, Front and Rear Parking Sensors, Ball Polished Challenge Rims, Full Recaro Seats, Leather Rear Shelf, BOSE Hi-Fi, All Stitching in Yellow and Pirelli Tires. This is a 1 owner car that is just like new with only 700 miles. Factory warranty until 5/31/2012. Contact us at 801.521.0340 or sales@ferrarisales.com. More photos at www.ferrarisales. com. Inquire Today!
2009 Ferrari F430 Scuderia 16M Rosso Corsa over Black Cordura Interior. Options include: Red Brake Calipers, Carbon Fiber Exterior Package, Handy Fire Extinguisher, Yellow Instrument Panel, Large Carbon Fiber Racing Seats and All Stitching in Rosso. This car is essentially new with only 326 miles. It is complete with all of its original items such as: Car Cover, Spare Key, Complete Books and Ipod Touch. Factory Warranty until 04/27/2012. Contact us at 801.521.0340 or sales@ferrarisales.com. More photos at www.ferrarisales.com. Inquire Today!
1990 Ferrari 348 ts Rosso Corsa over Black Interior. This is a very well kept 348 has just undergone complete servicing with timing belts in our shop. It is an exceptional car that has complete service history and original books. Contact us at 801.521.0340 or sales@ferrarisales.com. More photos at www.ferrarisales.com. Inquire Today!
2008 Ferrari F430 F1 Spider Rosso Corsa over Beige Interior with Black Carpets. Options include: Red Brake Calipers, Carboceramic Brake System, Power Daytona Seats, Yellow Instrument Panel, Ferrari Ipod, Scuderia Sheilds, Piping in Black, Ball Polished Challenge Rims, Roll Bar Upholstery in Beige, Bose Hi-Fi, Daytona Seat Leather Stripes in Black, Colored Steering Wheel and Carbon Fiber Dash Inserts. Contact us at 801.521.0340 or sales@ferrarisales.com. More photos at www.ferrarisales.com. Inquire Today!
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Story by Jennifer Persons
n 1983, when Zahir Rana watched as Magnum PI drifted his way across a Hawaiian beach in a Ferrari 308, his passion for exotics sparked what would forever change his life. He immediately went out and purchased his first 1984 Ferrari 308 QV and never looked back.
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30 Growing up in Kisumu, Kenya, Rana always had his eye on fast cars. And as soon as he turned 16, he left Kenya for London to pursue an education in the automotive field. A few years later, moving to Calgary, Alberta became a game changer for Rana. “No companies in Canada do what I do. I improve them for speed, handling, and esthetics,” Rana said regarding ZR Exotics, his sport and exotic car care facility located in Calgary. Zahir Rana opened ZR Exotics to provide clients with the ultimate service, repair, detailing and performance tuning packages without compromise. “My cars are extreme. I have to have the best, fastest and most extreme. I like to be different.” Since he opened ZR Exotics more than 10 years ago, Rana has continued to be passionate with high expectations that he sets for himself and in turn delivers to his customers.
Zahir Rana and ZR Exotics is the only company in Canada who can outshine the competition when it comes to his tuning program and with the world’s fastest Enzo Ferrari ZXX that statement would be hard to argue.w With a new intake system featuring an air box with ram effect, Rana has increased the performance of the Enzo with more than 900 horse power, max torque of 850 Nm at 5,800 rpm, increased the switching speed on a record-breaking 10,000 r/min, reduced the weight of approximately 100kg to create a top speed of over 390 km/h. The world’s first aerodynamic package with KW race suspension from the FIA GT Series has made Rana’s Enzo Ferrari ZXX truly one of a kind.
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33 Rana has owned or driven practically every type of exotic car there is. Just a sample of exotics in his tuning program include the Lamborghini Gallardo 1500 BHP, Ferrari F40 535 BHP, Ferrari F430 Novitec 707 BHP and a 1963 Austin Mini wide body that weighs approximately 1,000 pounds with 400 BHP. Rana is partnered with Edo Competition (specializing in Ferrari and Maserati Supercars), Porsche Techart, and Lamborghini IMSA Germany, among other high performance industry bests. “We work hand in hand with the finest North American and European specialist tuning companies to make your dreams a reality.” And Zahir Rana doesn’t just own the company; he personally works with customers to ensure the project’s success.
Rana believes exotics are meant to be driven and drive them he does. He has started a trend of driving not hiding these million dollar supercars as many high-end car owners do. Since he had made his Enzo a daily driver, he has seen more exotics hitting the streets. When asked about the passion behind it all, Rana simply said; “I like personalized cars and there are people out there like me.” Rana and ZR Auto not only modify and customize exotic cars, but they use them to help support multiple charities through organizations like Race the Base Challenge, a Canadian Forces Outreach Event. For more information on ZR Auto and the Ultimate Showdown Performance, visit ZRAuto.ca and RacetheBase.ca.
LAMBORGHINI S A R A S O TA
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Grass-green Porsches, neon yellow Lamborghinis and even luminous red Ferraris will soon fade away into the background on most streets, as the latest creation from HAMANN Motorsport steals the show. With the “memoR”, HAMANN – the specialists for unique super sports cars – presents an exquisitely colourful McLaren MP4-12C with typical HAMANN bodywork. With the stage set like this, the refined two-seater will transform ugly streets into palatial catwalks, clothing its passengers in magnificent haute couture.
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Naturally, this opulent explosion of colour also conceals an aerodynamics package second to none. The standard version of the McLaren doesn’t hold back with its visual charms either, presenting itself as a dynamic mid-engine sports car. HAMANN takes up the existing lines of the car’s carbon chassis and supplements its body elements with stylistic borrowings from the 1995 winner at LeMans, the McLaren F1, comprehensively transforming the front end, with new carbon mudguards, air outlets and expressive front apron replacing the original components. The LED daytime running lights and carbon front spoiler integrated into the front of the car are particular highlights here. The newly developed attachments for the side aprons and doors form a visual and aerodynamic link between the vehicle’s axles. Larger air inlets on the flanks of the car, as well as a carbon bonnet underscore the car’s powerful design. Roof scoop, rear wings and the rear apron with recesses for the three tailpipes of the exhaust system round off the imposing appearance of the “memoR”.
40 During the complex modification process, the engineers paid special attention to ensuring the car’s light weight. To achieve this, HAMANN makes ample use of the extremely light – yet ultra-strong – material of carbon, which, because of its positive properties, can be found in abundance in the basic model too. To perfect the car’s overall appearance, HAMANN has fitted “UNIQUE FORGED formula” forged rims. These one-piece, ultra-light aluminium wheels with centerlock-look come in size 9.5 x 21 with size 255/30 ZR 21 tyres at the front and size 12.5 x 21 with 355/25 ZR 21 tyres at the rear axle. But that’s not all – the car’s interior too is upgraded to become a desirable, unique automotive specimen. Whether you opt for elegant or sporty, carbon or wood, leather or Alcantara – HAMANN has just the right thing for your interior tastes. HAMANN’s own upholsterers can, on request, design whatever the customer fancies: from personalised foot mats to a full leather interior, all made with precision craftsmanship. Individually designed and integrated into the “memoR” by the best master craftsmen. The conversion of a standard McLaren MP4-12C into this piece of art starts at $125,000 plus tax.
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T SE MA Story by Jennifer Persons
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he SEMA Show is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world. It draws the industry’s brightest minds and hottest products to one place, the Las Vegas Convention Center. In addition, the SEMA Show provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and much more. Drawing more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers, “The SEMA Show is a mega display of all the cool stuff that makes your vehicle perform better and look cool,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA VP of Events and Communications. Some of the latest concepts, designs and improvements in the automotive industry are featured each year and with more than 100,000 industry leaders from more than 100
countries in attendance this year, the SEMA show did not disappoint. More than just the latest in automotive accessories, top branded wheels and high end vehicle electronics, SEMA showcases some of the most unique custom automobiles found around the world. From classics, motorcycles and hot rods to race cars, monster trucks and even concept cars for the future, many companies work throughout the year customizing a car specifically to put on display at SEMA. If you are into comic books and happen to be a fan of stylistic companies including West Coast Customs, Kia was a hot spot for superheroes as they unveiled their hot new car styles featuring classic comic book icons. The Green Lantern, Flash, Batman and Cyborg were four custom car themes out on display. In addition to those shown at this year’s SEMA show, the marketing team from Kia hinted that a few more super heroes might be added to the lineup in 2013. There aren’t just big players
like Kia and Ford with custom cars on display out at SEMA. Even small shops around the country bring in their best work to show off. The Custom Shop out of Flanagan, Illinois showed up with a super slick 1971 Hemi Cuda Convertible. Owner of The Custom Shop, John Wargo explained; “It’s kindof a modern version of the original ’71 Hemi. We did a modern Mopar Gen 426 motor, added Wilwood brakes and QA1 coil over shocks so it gives it more of the race car modern driving experience.” Some of the companies that helped restore the car into the condition it is now include Goodmark Industries and Deno’s Auto Upholstery. MacGillivray went on to say, “The SEMA Show and the industry are about personalization, and the products you’ll find at the SEMA Show allow car and truck owners to customize their vehicles and make it their own.” The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) isn’t open to the public, but if you can make your way into this once a year convention, you’ll find it’s an automotive enthusiast’s playground.
To see additional images please visit our Flickr Page http://www.flickr.com/photos/50436561@N02/sets
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s it possible that the Mercedes-Benz G-Class will still be around in 2025? A cool design study from MercedesBenz demonstrates how the genes of the classic off-roader from 1979 may still assert themselves in the far future. It is based on the concept of a future police car developed for the Los Angeles Design Challenge.
The Los Angeles Design Challenge 2012 looks far ahead with a quest for the “Highway Patrol Vehicle 2025”. Law enforcement will have to prepare for even more crowded roads with electronically monitored and guided traffic, a much larger population and changes in human behaviour. People will feel young and active until even later in life. Outdoor activities will dominate leisure, the desire for freedom and adventure. The new times will also call for new police vehicles. They must be able to reach any place conceivable quickly and reliably – even far away from any pavement. And they must do so in an exceptionally environmentally friendly way using alternative
energy sources. Enhanced greencar characteristics and off-road capabilities will be among the fundamental virtues of a police car in 2025. As an environmentally friendly SUV, the Ener-G-Force, which MercedesBenz is presenting in Los Angeles as a design study, meets these requirements and would be fully capable of supporting police and emergency services in every corner of the world. Gorden Wagener, Director of Design at Mercedes-Benz Cars: “The Ener-G-Force is the vision of an off-roader that, while reflecting tomorrow’s adventures, also invokes the genes of the Mercedes-Benz offroad icon, the G model. Modern and
cool, it could also be a clue about a new beginning for the off-road design idiom of Mercedes-Benz”. The small glass areas make the police vehicle a safe cocoon for law enforcement officers who are faced with many dangers. Emergency lights integrated into the roof ensure attention that is impossible to ignore; the striking front leaves no doubt as to the commanding presence of the police, and the gigantic wheels guarantee the right of way even where no way exists. Of course the concept of the EnerG-Force for the Los Angeles Design Challenge is pure, rendered science fiction. However, the notion of
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designing tomorrow’s off-roader fascinated the designers at the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studio in Carlsbad, California to such an extent that they evolved the vision of a police version into a civilian version and even built a 1:1-scale model. Like the “Highway Patrol Vehicle 2025”, the shape of the civilian Ener-G-Force is modelled after the G-Class, the off-road icon whose continuous history goes all
the way back to the 1970s and that to this very day still tackles the future as a stylistically and technologically advanced SUV. Like the police version, the model of the civilian Ener-G-Force is unmistakably inspired by the G-Class, which has long been considered an automotive icon. However, it presents a radical reinterpretation of this classic that looks far into
the future. Important genes such as proportions and design elements were adopted conceptually and completely redesigned and updated in a clean concept for beyond tomorrow. EnerG-Force Designer Hubert Lee: “Of course we wanted to take a clear step forward, but we also wanted the G’s characteristic features”. The Ener-GForce has a similar profile, however with a high shoulder line and scaleddown glass areas.
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57 centre pull-out compartment whose cover takes up the characteristic look of the spare wheel carrier of the classic G-Class. This pull-out tool box can hold a wide variety of equipment items that consequently are quickly in reach without having to open the whole liftgate.
While the clear design idiom of the G-Class has remained, all surfaces are designed to express intensity and tension. The meticulously executed details also are a clear indication that the Ener-G-Force is the product of modern times. Like the G-Class, the Ener-G-Force sports a front with an expressive radiator grille that incorporates the headlamps. LEDs in the headlamps form lamp units in the shape of a G. This gives the Ener-GForce a strong, iconic appearance and demonstrates dominance. The front indicators and position lights
are mounted on top of the wings as a significant G-Class element. The mounted roof distinctive to the G-Class and the tripartite glass area also cite the fundamental genes of the classic off-roader from MercedesBenz, but represent a clear step forward. This is also evident in the large wheels, whose 20-inch rims give the Ener-G-Force a powerful, towering stance. The Ener-G-Force also plays on the utility factor in an entirely new way. For instance, the distinctive feature in the rear is a slightly off-
The Ener-G-Force stores recycled water in tanks on the roof, and transfers it to the “hydro-tech converter,” where natural and renewable resources are converted into hydrogen for operating the fuel cells. The storage units for the electricity generated in this process are housed easily accessible in the striking side skirts. The Ener-GForce emits nothing but water, has an operating range of about 800 kilometres and as a result truly is a green car. Four wheel-hub motors, whose output for each individual wheel is adapted precisely to the respective terrain by highperformance electronics, provide the pulling power. A “Terra-Scan” 360-degree topography scanner on the roof permanently scans the surroundings and uses the results to adjust the spring and damping rates as well as other suspension parameters for maximum traction on the respective surface, regardless of whether it is in terrain or on the road. The strikingly styled side skirts house either the energy storage units or hotswappable battery packs. Changes in the colour of the illumination of the side skirts indicate the operating and charge status of the energy packs. A roof carrier and additional lamps are integrated into the roof. The ensemble appears to have been carved from a single piece. The overall package of this design model is a clean thing – stylistically and functionally.
9T H A N N U A L
Join us for the auto enthusiast’s dream
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A CoPY oF the oFFICIAL reGIstrAtIoN AND FINANCIAL INFormAtIoN mAY Be oBtAINeD From the DIVIsIoN oF CoNsumer serVICes BY CALLING toLL-Free (800-435-7352) wIthIN the stAte. reGIstrAtIoN Does Not ImPLY eNDorsemeNt, APProVAL, or reCommeNDAtIoN. BY the stAte. Ch288
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Sharing your passion for the world’s finest automobiles.
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q $29.99 1 year (6 issues) q $39.99 2 years (12 issues) Add $20 per year to Canadian Orders(includes GTS). Add $120 per year to Foreign orders. All subscription orders must be pre-paid in U.S. funds.
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Mail to: Luxury Auto Direct Magazine P.O. Box 1058, Lutz, Florida, 33548
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Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery
www.gevrilgroup.com phone: 866.425.9882