March 2008
Audi R8 V12 TDI Concept
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contents
March 2008
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Very Bad Karma
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Cars for the Cure
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Art in Motion
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Hummer Opens Up
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Mastering Perfection
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Gear
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Show Stopper
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Emotional Performance
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Classic Sports Sunday
2010 Fisker Karma
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Auto Show Extravaganza 2008 Mazda Furai Concept
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2008 Hummer HX Concept Luxury Watch Guide Turn your kitchen into a Porsche
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2008 Audi R8 V12 TDI 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL AMG
A true sports cars enthusiasts auto show
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All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission. Luxury Auto Direct Magazine TM is published in the U.S.A 12 times per year by Luxury Direct Media, Inc.. For subscription or advertising rates, call 813-920-1988 or write to Luxury Auto Direct Magazine, PO Box 1058, Lutz, FL 33548. Luxury Auto Direct Magazine TM makes no representation or warranty for accuracy or content. The pictures of automobiles for sale and the written offer for sale are the responsibility of the individual advertiser. All photos become property of Luxury Direct Media, Inc. when printed unless otherwise agreed to by the publisher.
Lexus
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Lexus LF-A Roadster Concept
Topped
Off
Lexus transforms LF-A concept into a roadster
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Lexus
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Lexus LF-A Roadster Concept
Topped
Off
Lexus transforms LF-A concept into a roadster
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fisker gage capacity that can fit two golf bags and luggage in the trunk. Drivers will also be able to select their preferred driving modes. The first mode is “Stealth Drive,” which is the quiet economy mode for optimal relaxed and efficient driving. By flipping the second paddle behind the steering wheel, the car will switch to “Sport Drive,” which will access the full power of the vehicle. Other interior optional features include navigation systems, DVD system incorporated into seat backs and state-of-the art push button controls. Keeping with the company’s mantra of “Simply World Class,” Fisker Automotive and its retailers will offer a customer experience second to none. All retailers will be housed in eco-friendly facilities and will offer consumers a unique personal approach, including the ability to ask questions via video conference with an expert at Fisker Automotive headquarters and flexible scheduling based on consumer availability. For the first of its kind, four-door plug-in hybrid premium sports sedan one can expect to pay around $80,000, but considering it leaves virtually no carbon footprint, needs to be filled up but once a year if charged daily, can come with optional solar powered charging capabilities, performs and handles like a luxury sports car should, and caters to the driver with timeless elegance—the price begins to look much more affordable. Initial deliveries of the Karma will commence in the 4th quarter of 2009 with annual production projected to reach 15,000 cars. The first 99 cars off the assembly line will be individually numbered and signed by Henrik Fisker. They will be produced in the color and trim of the show car seen at NAIAS. For more information about the Fisker Karma or the companies Tramonto and Latigo CS models, please visit www.fiskerautomotive.com . Creative design services are also carried out for further brand recognition within Fisker Coachbuild through merchandising.
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Our hope is that the Fisker Karma will be the start of a new trend in the automotive business: less concession with more efficiency.
California Wheels
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events
CARS FOR THE CURE
n February 2, 2008, Cars for the Cure returned to Colonial TownPark in Lake Mary, FL. This luxury auto-show, now in its fourth year, displayed over 166 of the most impressive, powerful and exotic cars and motorcycles ever made. The show also included custom and classic cars, as well as military vehicles displayed by the United States Marine Corps. Over 12,000 visitors came out to see the variety of cars on display such as Ferraris, Maseratis, Lamborghinis, BMWs, Cadillacs, Porsches, Bentleys and Aston Martins to name a few. Cars for the Cure, a fundraiser to benefit the American Lung Association of Florida – Central Area was originally crafted by Rob Hodgson, the founder of a home-health care agency called Granny Nannies. Hodgson’s involvement with the American Lung Association began 14
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about nine years ago after one of his employees acquired and died of lung cancer at an early age. In those nine years, Hodgson progressed from volunteer to board president of the Central Florida area, which encompasses ten counties. A board member for eight years, Hodgson has been instrumental in putting the organization’s fund raising into high gear. He took his passion for cars and turned it into a fundraiser to benefit those struggling to breathe. With the help of Hodgson and his host committee, the event has tripled in size over the past four years and is now one of the Southeast’s most prominent luxury auto shows. The 2008 event presented by Classic Audi and Hummer of Orlando raised nearly $76,000 to support local lung health education programs such as Open Airways for Schools (an elementary-school
cars for the cure based asthma management program), smoking cessation and prevention programs for middle and high-school students and support groups for those living with COPD and lung cancer. “Nothing goes in anyone’s pocket,” Hodgson points out. Other generous sponsors of the event included Massey Cadillac, Collier Jaguar, Fields Auto Group, Granny Nannies, Ultimate Audio, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Kenrick Anthony Spence, M.D., Ferrari & Maserati of Central Florida, Mercedes-Benz of Orlando in Maitland, Essian Construction, Lambrorghini Orlando, Rolls Royce Motor Cars Orlando and Bentley Orlando and Luxury Auto Direct. Cars for the Cure began on Friday night with a VIP Reception for individual registrants and event sponsors at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. Participants returned for the all day auto show on Saturday and an escorted private drive on Sunday morning. Awards were presented in a variety of categories including the Best of Show awarded to Payam Matin’s 2005 Maserati MC 12 and the Beast of Show presented to Richard Zahn’s 1968 Shelby GT500 SS. “We are indebted to Rob for his vision and initiative in spearheading the Cars for the Cure event,” says Eric Gray, area executive director of the American Lung Association of Florida – Central Area office. “His commitment to the mission of the American Lung Association and his admitted passion for high-performance cars developed into a successful fund-raiser that will continue for years to come”. For more information about the American Lung Association of Florida or Cars for the Cure, call 1-800-LUNG-USA.
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mazda
Art in Motion 16
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MAZDA FURAI CONCEPT
MAZDA FURAI CONCEPT: THE EMBODIMENT OF ZOOM-ZOOM luxuryautodirect.com
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mazda
As the latest in Mazda’s award-winning and highly acclaimed series of Nagare concept cars, the Furai P2 concept vehicle celebrates the 40th anniversary of the rotary engine with the raciest interpretation of NAGARE design language to-date. Furai, Japanese for “sound of the wind,” is the sort of car that could only come from a company that incorporates the “Soul of a Sports Car” into everything it builds, but with an eye always fixed on the future. Driving toward sustainability, Furai was initially tuned to operate on 100 percent ethanol fuel, the first time a racing three-rotor rotary engine has been fueled by ethanol. Research continues in earnest with partner BP into other renewable and future fuels, including ethanol gasoline blends like E10. Manufacturers commonly showcase design studies with little or no intention of actually using the theme presented. Mazda’s approach is the opposite: All of the Nagare concepts, including Furai, help evolve this evocative surface language for future use. Every vehicle Mazda sells embodies the soul of a sports car to achieve a true Zoom-Zoom dynamic character. Nagare is how this celebration of motion will be portrayed on interior and exterior surfaces in future
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models. Instead of form following function, the two merge as one. For this reason, on any given weekend, there are more Mazdas and Mazda-powered cars road-raced in North America than any other brand of car. This is because every Mazda sedan, coupe and sports car really is developed with the highest possible dose the “Emotion of Motion.” The concept of “Nagare” is how Mazda’s future models will sustain the Zoom-Zoom spirit by exhibiting their strong affinity for the aesthetics of motion. Franz von Holzhausen, Mazda North American Operations, (MNAO) Director of Design and the person who lead the team that created the Furai, explains the concept behind the concept, “We were looking for a way to bridge the gap between Mazda Motorsports and the production vehicles in our lineup. The mindsets of road-car and racing car fans are quite different, so the purpose of Furai is to find a meeting point for these disparate interests.” He continued, “Furai achieves this by purposely blurring boundaries that have traditionally distinguished the street from the track. Historically, there has been a gap between single-purpose racecars
MAZDA FURAI CONCEPT
and street-legal models—commonly called supercars—that emulate the real racers on the road.” Instead of mimicking racecar components and design elements in a road car, the strategy preferred by supercar manufacturers, the Mazda way was to begin this project with the real McCoy: a Courage C65 chassis that earned its stripes during two seasons of LMP-2 endurance racing in the American Le Mans Series (www.americanlemans.com). This sports car was successfully campaigned under the MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development banner by B-K Motorsports during the 2005 and 2006 seasons. Drivers Jamie Bach, Guy Cosmo, Elliott Forbes-Robinson, and Raphael Matos piloted the car to one victory and a total of nine podium finishes in 15 ALMS events. B-K finished third in championship standings both years; Bach and Cosmo were co-Rookies of the Year in2005. “Anticipating future rules changes in the ALMS, we created a new closed cockpit which would be more appropriate for a future production model,” said von Holzhausen. “The major element we did not change is the 450-horsepower RENESIS-based R20B threerotor rotary engine that provides Furai ample Zoom-Zoom. The ultimate Mazda in our minds is rotary powered; as a company, we have no intention of abandoning that valuable asset. When people think of the very best sports cars in the world, the rotary powered Mazda RX-7 is always on that list.” The Furai concept serves as a turning point in the Nagare developmental process. While the four previous concept cars
explored different ways to express Mazda’s emerging design philosophy and to explore an aesthetic, this one is all about function— every last texture and detail serves some functional purpose. In essence, the Furai creative process boiled down to guiding air over and through the body in fruitful ways. To prove that this concept goes far beyond static aerodynamic analysis, Mazda’s design, motorsports and R&D teams worked together to construct Furai as a 180-mph rolling laboratory to demonstrate its functional capabilities on demand. While Furai strikes an incredibly strong presence, the real beauty of the project and— it’s most valuable asset as a real-world testbed—is in the details that von Holzhausen and his team have incorporated into the Furai: the body surface provides ample opportunity to feature coredesign elements such as aggressive headlamps and Mazda’s trademark five-point grille. The headlamp trim pieces
function as guide frames to help cancel aerodynamic lift. High-pressure zones just above the front wheels are relieved to serve the same end. The airflow package takes air moving under the front of the car and guides it inside the body to the engine-cooling radiators. Nagare textures incorporated in the side surfaces feed air to the rear brakes, the oil cooler and the transmission cooler. An under-car diffuser that begins rising aft of the cockpit helps draw the volume of air flowing through the heatexchangers and engine bay out the rear. The Mazda design and R&D teams worked closely with Swift Engineering to refine the aerodynamic characteristics, assuring that Furai remains glued to the ground at high speeds. Through its existing relationship with Swift Engineering, forged through development of the Mazda/Cosworth-powered Champ Car Atlantic chassis, the team used complex Computational Fluid Dynamics
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mazda
(CFD) software to tune various Nagare design elements to function at a high degree of efficiency. Drag, downforce, lift and overall esthetics were all key considerations. Sourced straight from the race track, the Courage carbon-composite tub is essentially intact under the new Furai body, including the right-side driver’s seat. Instead of the stark interior typical of race cars though, this cockpit is finished with more comfortable but still highly functional surfaces. An electronic display screen and shift paddles are built into the steering wheel. In the chassis’ original racing configuration, the passenger seat isfilled with electronic gear, so those components were relocated elsewhere to provide adequate space for two occupants. The greenhouse is somewhat wider than the original cockpit to provide adequate headand shoulder room and suitable outward visibility. Doors attached with butterfly hinges provide a very efficient means of entering the cockpit. In this instance, the design team followed an approach that has proven very effective during years of endurance racing. “One thing we learned from CFD studies is that we don’t need much rear wing to balance the down force created by the front splitter and the Nagare features we’ve sculpted into the body” explained von Holzhausen. “Combustion air is provided by a variation of the Turbo Tongue device that Swift developed for Indy car use a decade ago. It rises slightly higher than the surrounding roof surface to
ingest clean air above the boundary layer. Our final design works so well that we applied for a joint patent with Swift. Of course, it helps that it’s a real piece of art, too, and one we had to incorporate into the design.” Furai not only probes future design possibilities, it also ventures ahead with alternative renewable fuels. Consistent with Mazda’s recently announced Sustainable Zoom-Zoom initiatives, Furai’s three-rotor powerplant has been tuned to run powerfully on ethanol (ethyl alcohol) and ethanol gasoline blends. There are exciting advances being made in renewable fuels, from current blends like E10 (10% ethanol and 90% gasoline) with research ongoing in making Ethanol from cellulostic materials, to future renewable gasoline components like Butanol, a higher order alcohol, which is fungible with gasoline. The addition of these renewable components improves Mazda’s understanding of how these fuels work with the company’s technology. and reduces the consumption of fossil hydrocarbons and the emission of harmful greenhouse gasses. John Doonan, Mazda’s manager of motorsports team development, explains the thinking behind Furai’s use of alternative renewable fuels: “One of our key technical partners in our motorsports activity - BP helped facilitate our use of renewable fuels for this concept vehicle. Going forwards, we are working with BP to determine appropriate renewable fuels for the vehicle and potentially our team entry for the 2008 ALMS series.
BP is a strong leader in the renewable fuels areas, recently announcing a $500M investment in the Energy Biosciences Institute, and we are proud to partner with them.” Doonan continued, “In 2007, ALMS required use of renewable fuels, so we’re projecting ahead with this application to gain experience. BP has a very green focus in the marketplace, and it’s Mazda’s intention to sustain its Zoom-Zoom performance image on and off the racetrack. While Mazda’s rotary has proven readily adaptable to various alternative fuels, including considerable work with hydrogen fuel, this is the first time it’s been engineered for other renewable Ethanol blends.” Through the BP partnership, Furai has been specially tuned to operate on renewable fuels. BP engineers continue to work to optimize other fuels, including investigating new future renewable fuel components. This is Mazda’s first experience with ethanol fuel in a three-rotor racing engine, and the results have been convincing that, once again, the Mazda rotary engine is unique in its ability to run well on multiple fuels. Furai has shown the Mazda team the real value of teamwork and key partners. The concept has celebrated the 40th anniversary of the rotary engine, embraced the company’s rich racing heritage, and shown that greener fuels don’t mean sacrificing anything but emissions. For more information on the Mazda Furai or any of the Nagare concepts, please visit www.mazda.com
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hummer
Hummer
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Hummer HX Concept
Opens up HX CONCEPT PROVIDES VISION OF A RUGGED, OPEN-AIR HUMMER
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hummer ith its unmistakable HUMMER design and a compact, go-anywhere driving ethic, the HUMMER HX concept challenges the hierarchy of the trail. HUMMER displayed the nimble, reconfigurable off-roader at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. More compact than a HUMMER H3 – 81 inches (2,057 mm) wide, with a 103-inch wheelbase (2,616-mm) – the HX concept is an open-air, two-door off-road vehicle that packs the off-road acumen for which HUMMER has become legendary, along with an easily convertible body that acclimates to varied trail conditions, cargo needs or passenger whims. Its design is based on the ideas developed by a trio of young designers who are new to the HUMMER studio. “The HX is HUMMER’s vision of an agile, trail-ready, open-air vehicle that fits the lifestyles of everyone who needs or wants to drive off road,” said Martin Walsh, HUMMER general manager. “Of course, it carries exceptional off-road capability and the distinctive styling for which all HUMMERs are known.” The HX offers an open-air driving experience via a pair of removable roof panels above the driver and front passenger, and a modular, removable rear roof assembly. With the roof panels and roof assembly removed, the HX is transformed into a true convertible. Easy removal of the roof panels and rear-roof assembly enables quick conversion from a closed vehicle to an open one. The HX also was designed with several roof assemblies, allowing this versatile vehicle to be configured as an SUT (with the roof assembly removed), a stylish slantback or a traditional, wagon-like design that offers a bit more cargo space.
The HX was shown with a slant-back configuration, wearing a desert-inspired matte olive paint scheme, at the North American International Auto Show. Additional convertible features include: Removable doors – easily removable pins in the exposed hinges allow the doors to be removed quickly – an appreciated feature of many serious off-roaders. Removable fender flares – attached with quarter-turn quick-release fasteners, the composite fender flares can be quickly removed for additional trail/ rock clearance, or if the flare is damaged during off-road driving “The modular design of the roof and removable body panels mark an evolution of HUMMER’s design aesthetic,” said Carl Zipfel, director of design. “These features demonstrate a deeper understanding of enthusiast desires when it comes to off-road driving – and the slantback design gives the HX a look all its own.” The design of the HX was driven by input from three young designers who were new to GM and the HUMMER design studio. As part of their “initiation,” they were charged with developing concept drawings for a smaller, youthful HUMMER and the HX is a direct result of their creativity. The HX concept is based on one of the designers’ original illustrations, but incorporates the best ideas and elements from the other designs. “HUMMER appeals to young people globally and served as a perfect first assignment for our newest talent,” said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design. “Today’s graduates from top design schools are ready to hit the ground running. The HUMMER design challenge gave our newest designers an opportunity to sprint.” Inside and out, the HX carries a purposeful aesthetic that, from initial sketches to finalized clay models, was refined in only six months. “This is the HUMMER design language stripped down to its essence,” said David Rojas, creative designer. “The HX has an aggressive appearance and great proportions, with beauty lying in its functional austerity.” On the exterior, the lightweight theme is evidenced in the appearance of exposed, billet aluminum suspension components that feature CNC-machined lightening
The HX offers an open-air driving experience via a pair of removable roof panels above the driver and front passenger, and a modular, removable rear roof assembly.
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Hummer HX Concept
relieves, as well as clean, unadorned bodywork and minimal trim. The lightweight theme is taken to its extreme when the roof panels, roof assembly, fender flares and doors are removed. Classic HUMMER design cues make the HX instantly recognizable, including the round headlamps located in square housings, an upright windshield profile, minimal overhangs, hood vents and prominent air intakes. The air intakes are functional and feed a V-6 engine beneath the hood, while the hood vents are active – they articulate to allow hot underhood air to escape. And while the headlamps and grille are clearly HUMMER cues, they’ve evolved on the HX with a “chopped circle” motif. The grille
slots and headlamps, as well as elements on the interior, have the appearance of circles or ovals that have been clipped at the top and bottom, creating a unique appearance that speaks to the vehicle’s purposeful aesthetic. “The ‘cut-off’ circles suggest larger, heavy-duty components that were trimmed to fit the compact HX,” said Rojas. And while it is unadorned by extraneous embellishments, the HX’s exterior is nonetheless outfitted with features that speak to HUMMER’s legacy of technology and innovation, including HID headlamps with focusing rings that adjust automatically when they’re turned on – much like the lens of an auto-focus SLR-type camera. LED technology is used for the front turn signal lamps and taillamps. From aircraft-inspired seats to integrated, off-road-ready tools, the HUMMER HX’s interior has a beauty that lies in its purposeful intent. It was inspired by the functional and lightweight elements found in aircraft. “Aeronautical parts are designed to be both lightweight and strong, and that is the feeling exuded by the HX’s cabin,” said Stuart Norris, interior design manager. “There isn’t superfluous trim or decoration – it is a purposeful design that conveys beauty through strength.” Reinforcing the stripped-to-the-essence feel, the exterior’s matte olive color carries over onto the interior’s largely sheet metal-covered panels. The color is accented with pressed or extruded aluminum components, such as the handles, switches and other necessary parts. Furthering the aeronautical influence is the instrument panel, which uses an exposed, extruded aluminum crossvehicle beam as its foundation. On the beam, the instrument cluster and other vital controls are mounted; and it also features a unique, removal top cover that provides significant storage capability. “The instrument panel is a styling element of the HX, and the removal of the top cover reveals a secondary design that enhances the vehicle’s core design ethic,” said Norris. “With the top cover removed, the interior conveys even more of a basic essence – and the structure beneath the cover is beautiful to those who appreciate finely crafted metal.” A rubberized floor and ballistic nylon-material covering on the instrument panel and other interior components reinforces the functional aesthetic. Like aircraft seats, the HX’s seats are constructed on a lightweight framework with minimal components that feature lightening holes and strength-enhancing cross braces or triangulations. They are mounted on exposed, aircraft-style tracks and trimmed with a weather-resistant neoprene material. The HX seats four, with a pair of bucket-type seats in the second row. The rear seats mimic the front seats’ design and can be removed to generate more cargo room. All the seats feature a fourpoint, racing-style safety harness.
hummer The inner seat track on both front seats is located beneath the outer edges of a prominent center console. The console offers exceptional storage capability and houses a unique shifter that mounts low and out of the way when the vehicle is parked – also hiding from sight the engine starter button. It has a spring-loaded cover that pops up when the driver is ready to select a gear. The console also houses a resting place for phones, MP3 player and iPods or iPhones. In fact, there is no conventional radio in the HX, only integrated speakers. Passengers plug in an iPod, or similar device, to a USB connector to play music in the HX. “From the console to the cargo area behind the seats, there are simply untold storage possibilities within the HX,” said Norris. “It’s like a four-wheel backpack that’s already fitted with the necessities.” The “cut-off circles” motif of the exterior is seen even more so on the HX’s interior, as the gauge cluster, instrument panel vents and even the steering wheel carry the design element. A three-element gauge cluster – each of the three instrument “pods” carries the cut-off circle design – delivers crucial driver information in either a highway or off-road mode. This conceptual reconfigurable gauge layout uses LCD screens with multiple layouts, including a navigation system. The nav system features GPS and compass information; and is designed to upload trail information before setting off on an excursion. The center gauge pod houses a speedometer and tachometer, but changes to a wheel angle indicator when the transmission is in the low position. This off-road mode changeover from the highway mode gives the driver information that is more pertinent to the driver conditions. The trail view of a camera mounted in the rear-view mirror can be displayed on the instrument panel, too. The off-road mode features of the instrument panel comprise the
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virtual tools of the HX, while others are mounted for physical use, including a folding shovel, flashlight and first-aid kit. They all carry the “clipped circle” design motif found throughout the vehicle. With its compact dimensions, almost no overhangs and grippy 35-inch tires, the HX is ready for all terrains. Like all HUMMER production models, the HX has sturdy, body-on-frame construction, onto which is mounted front and rear independent suspensions. The front suspension features an electronic-disconnecting stabilizer bar for enhanced maneuverability when driving off road, and the rear suspension is located with Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC)-machined, billet trailing arms. Heavy-duty shocks with piggyback reservoirs were custom-made for the HX by renowned racing shock manufacturer Fox; one is mounted at each wheel position. A full-time 4WD system pulls the HX over, through and around off-road obstacles. It transfers torque to the front and rear axles, each of which is equipped with a locking differential. The torque meets the trail via custom 35-inch-tall off-road tires that are mounted on a set of custom, bead-lock-style wheels that have a two-tone appearance; dark-painted wheel centers complemented by silver-anodized outer rims. A complete underbody armor kit, including a front skid plate, powetrain protection and more, protects the HX from wayward rocks and other potentially damaging objects. A poweroperated winch is located in the front bumper, and the HX has recovery hooks mounted on the front and rear bumpers, just in case its help is required for wrangling others out of unfortunate off-road situations. Motivation for the HX comes from an E85 FlexFuel 3.6L SIDI V-6 that is backed by a six-speed automatic transmission. The transmission is teamed with the 4WD system to offer exceptional low-speed traction and crawling capability. Four-wheel-disc brakes provide confident stopping power.
LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM
2007 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S F77 Package. Carrara White/Special Sand Beige Leather Int., Sport Chrono Kit! This car has it all! Still under Full Porsche Factory 4yr/50,000mile warranty and has only 6 Miles! Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
2007 Ferrari F430 F1 Spider Red/Tan Leather. Only 57 Delivery Miles. F1 Trans, Daytona Style Seats, Power Operated Seats, Scuderia Ferrari Shields, High Power HiFi Sound with Subwoofer, Clear Chip Guard. $309,500 Motorcars International 866-289-6740 www.motorcars-intl.com.
2003 Ferrari Enzo. Red/Black Leather. Very Low miles! 12-cylinder Ferrari Super Car named after, such as a carbon-fiber body, F1-style sequential shift transmission, and carbon-ceramic brake discs. Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
2007 Porsche 997 GT3 RS. Orange / Black. Very special Porsche. For more information contact Rayda Sinni, Phone: 705-321-7398 or Email: Rayda@thecarexperience.com
2005 Dodge Viper SRT-10 Supercharged Convertible. Pearl Orange with Two-Tone Black with Orange Inserts Leather This one-owner vehicle is in showroom new condition and has only 4764 miles! Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
2006 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S. Black/Black Leather! Only 21,292 miles. This one-owner Porsche Cayenne Turbo S is a fully loaded SUV. Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
Rare 2005 Ford GT in Rare Black on Black! 1,063 miles. Optioned with Racing Stripes, Lightweight Forged Aluminum Wheels, Black Painted Brake Calipers and McIntosh Stereo System. $189,900 Lamborghini Houston 866-289-7497 www.lamborghinihouston.com.
1999 Ferrari F355 Spider F1. Rosso Corsa (Red) with Tan Leather! 14,706 Miles! Showroom condition! Stunning and rare exotic has ALWAYS been maintained at a Ferrari service dealership and kept in a climate controlled showroom! Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com luxuryautodirect.com 27
LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM
1970 Plymouth Superbird Roadrunner. Numbers Matching!! Flawless with much desirable Hemi Orange Paint/Black Interior and Special BlackOut Hood Treatment! About 545 were produced in this rare color!! Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
2004 Ferrari 360 Spider F1. Rosso Corsa Red/Tan Leather! 1366 miles! Many upgrades such as very rare Red Ferrari Brake Calipers, Hi-Fi Stereo with Subwoofer, Power Seats, 6-Speed F-1 Transmission. Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
2005 Mercedes SL55 AMG Carlsson V8 Kompressor. White with Ash Leather Interior! Fully Loaded! This Low Mile turnkey carries the balance of the 4-Year / 50,000mile Mercedes Factory Warranty. Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
2005 Aston Martin Vanquish S. Black/Jet Black Leather! 5800 Miles! Fully loaded! Aluminum Veneer, Heated Front Seats, LINN Audio System, Rear Parking Distance Sensors, Built-In Radar and Laser Detector, Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
2006 Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster. Monterey Blue with Grigio Sirius/ Avorio Lilium Leather Interior! Only 876 miles!! This is the Finest Example of a Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster on the Market Today!! Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE Overfinch. White/Black Leather Interior! Fully Loaded! Low Mile, One-Owner, still carries the balance of the 4 year/50,000 mile Land Rover Factory Warranty. Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
1967 Jaguar XKE Coupe. Ivory / Black leather, Concourse condition, Manual transmission. The Car Experience Inc (705) 726-7399 or www.thecarexperience.com, email Rayda@thecarexperience.com
2006 Bentley Continental Flying Spur. Silver/Gray Leather This absolutely stunning exotic is a fully loaded vehicle and has 18340 miles! This Bentley Flying Spur comes with options such as, Convenience Pack, Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com�
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LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM
2004 Rolls-Royce Phantom. Black/Black Leather Interior! Stunning exotic is a fully loaded vehicle, only 15,177 miles! Comes w/options such as, Veneered Instrument Panel, Color-Keyed Boot Trim, Single Coach Line and more. Contact Exotic Motorcars at 561-588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
1956 BMW 503 Cabriolet. Red / Gray&White interior, showroom condition, immaculate interior, new top, rare. The Car Experience Inc (705) 7267399 or www.thecarexperience.com, email Rayda@thecarexperience.com
1970 Lamborghini Espada 400GT. Red / Tan leather, Excellent driver. The Car Experience Inc (705) 726-7399 or www.thecarexperience.com, email Rayda@thecarexperience.com
2001 Lamborghini Diablo 6.0 VT in Jet Black/Snowcorn Leather, Stitching, & Piping. 6,896 miles! Uupgraded stereo, new tires, yellow brake calipers, upgraded exhaust system, etc. Only year for the 550hp 6.0 Liter V12. $199,900 Motorcars International 866-289-6740 www.motorcars-intl.com.
Over 100 years of experience in the automotive industry in South Florida, we provide our clients with the highest quality motor cars available. 2003 Aston Martin Vanquish, 14k mi., 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR Silver Silver/Gray, F1 shifters, 19 in. wheels, Arrow, 4k mi., Blk/Blk, 19” tur1,350 watt Linn Audio System bine wheels, Carbon fiber seats
2007 Lamborghini LP640 Coupe, 1k mi., Grigio Telesto/Nero lther, E-gear, DVD player, Navigation
Call us today or visit our website for a list of our inventory 2007 Bentley Continental GTC, 2003 Maserati Grandsport 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG, 5k mi., Chestnut/Saddle & Saf- Spyder Cambiocorsa, 10k mi., F1 81 mi., Silver/Black, Exclusive Nappa fron, Navigation, 19” in. wheels Shifters, Power seats, Navigation Lther, Parktronic, Keyless Go
Contact The Garage at 305-594-2223 or visit www.themiamigarage.com luxuryautodirect.com
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LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM
1972 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS. A Beautiful 246 GTS with original Daytona seats, air, and power windows. Documented with recent major mechanical work including suspension rebuild. As beautiful underneath as it is on top. Excellent working air conditioning and a new clutch enhances the already enjoyable driving experience this car delivers. Contact Sean at Steve Harris Imports 801-521-0340 or visit www.ferrarisales.com
2004 Ferrari 360 Spider F1. Factory options include: F1 transmission; Scuderia shields; Red brake calipers; 6 disc CD changer; Electric seats. Contact Sean at Steve Harris Imports 801521-0340 or visit www.ferrarisales.com
2004 Ferrari 360 Spider. Factory options include: F1 Transmission; Modular Wheels; Red Brake Callipers; Scuderia Shields; Challenge Grill; 6 Disc CD Changer; HiFi Stereo System; Daytona Seats; Electric Seats; Yellow Piping. Contact Sean at Steve Harris Imports 801-5210340 or visit www.ferrarisales.com
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LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM 1959 Mercedes Benz 300 SL Roadster. This 300SL Roadster that was built in 1959 for 1960 year model and is one of 1858 ever produced for the world! It is a rust-free California car, three owners and was originally delivered in Red with a Black interior. Marx Mercedes Service (Est.1970) has been servicing this 300SL for over twenty years. Over $30K has been spent on the engine & brakes. European Collectibles has replaced the original interior with a brand new leather interior & new German Soft-top and has redone some paintwork. This is an excellent turn key 300SL in excellent condition with both hard-top and soft-top. The 300SL was the pioneer of multi-tube “space frame” approach to chassis construction. All-independent suspension - the rear by treacherous swing axles and direct fuel injection. Top speed of 165 mph from the 3.0-liter straight six engine. It is a beautiful example that is highly desirable. Contact Rayda Sinni, Phone: 705-321- 7398 or Email: Rayda@thecarexperience.com
2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Roadster. Silver / Cream / Charcoal, 1 of 5 roadsters ever produced (+ 20 Coupe). Astonishing performances and highly collectible. Never registered. Each CLK GTR reflects the successful heritage which includes the 1997 FIA championship. The CLK GTR Roadster is one of the greatest modern-day supercars ever offered. Top speed 198 mph! Contact Rayda Sinni, Phone: 705-321-7398 or Email: Rayda @thecarexperience.com
1936 Mercedes-Benz 290 Special Roadster. Red/Tan Leather/Black Top, 12, 738 miles, This beautiful Mercedes Benz 290 Special roadster was developed on the chassis of a Mercedes Benz 290 (1936). Design and plans from the 30’s (chassis frames, engine, transmission and rear axle originate from originals 290 from 1936). Contact Rayda Sinni, Phone: 705-3217398 or Email: Rayda@thecarexperience.com
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LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM
2007 Lamborghini Gallardo Coupe. Nero Noctis (Black) with Nero Perseus (Black) Leather and Yellow Stitching!! Fully Loaded! Flawless Condition and still carries the Balance of the Factory Warranty!! Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
2008 Mercedes CL600 Autocouture. V12 Bi-Turbo! Exclusive Savanna/ Cashmere Nappa Leather Interior! Fully Loaded! This 93 mile turnkey carries the full 4-Year / 50,000 mile Mercedes Factory Warranty. Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
2008 Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Roadster. Pearl Green with Bi-Color Sportive Nero Perseus (Black), Steering Wheel, Center Console and Dashboard with Full Carbon Fiber Trim!! 177 Delivery Miles! Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
1968 Ford Mustang Fastback. Absolutely Flawless much desirable Metallic Red Sinful Cinnamon Paint which cost over $40,000 to complete the entire vehicle! Only 1968 Mustang in this stunning color!! 347ci, 380HP Smeding Motor built by Smeding Performace. Contact Dennis at Exotic Motorcars at (561)588-6166 or visit www.8887exotic.com
How do you locate, verify the history, understand the credentials, and negotiate the price of your next dream automobile? Call me today, and I will personally select the optimum vehicle for you. Our responsibility is to handle all the details of managing your next acquisition, and deliver your dream car to you.
705.726.7399
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We locate, convert, inspect, and freight any fine automobile in the world, and we do it better than anyone. To start serving you now, whether you are a buyer or a seller, all I need you to do is call me direct at 705.726.7399 — Rayda Sinni — CEO of The Car Experience (E.N.P. Inc.)
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WWW BRM MANUFACTURE COM
"ISCAYNE "LVD !VENTURA 0H WWW +INGS COM
6IA /PORTO 3UITE .EWPORT "EACH #ALIFORNIA 0H &X
luxury WATCH spotlight
mastering perfection The Manufacture As well as in the car industry, watch making masters are known by those few in search of the absolute best. In this very selective world where the elite rule, no one speaks of mass production, still less of productivity. Perfection is the only password! A few miles away from Paris, Bernard Richards practices the superb watch making art passed down in his family. Night and day, with the help of the craftsmen, he turns and assembles the most complex parts that others can no longer manufacture. The luxury and watch making giants contract him for service or for his specialized knowhow…most discreetly, to be sure. After two years of mystery and experimentation, the first BRM watch was created…a beautiful and classic, powerful and sharp specimen…exceeding every expectation and surpassing all other fashionable models. This impressive automatic chronograph is a concentrate combination of digital technology and expertise. Each manufacturing operation, from the selection of the best metals down to the case setting, is exceptional. The parts are never made by pending, only by removal of material. Thus, their molecular structure is perfectly preserved. The manufacturing tolerances are closer to nanotechnology than to watch making. BRM is a stroke of genius, an unclassifiable, unconventional item. The success of BRM watches will not hinge on mass production. Quality, not quantity, is our goal. 34
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BR T 03 Automatic movement, rectangular Titanium case with rose gold lugs and crown, rose features in hands, springs, screws on the side of the clasp. This watch is completely hand made BRM, first french movement in 35 years. each side of the case is clear with crystal sapphire.
BRM Watches
Ball Point Pen: Model STR 16 N Aluminum with black PVD retail price: $ 2,350.00
GP44111 Chrono-automatic, titanium case with black PVD, polished stainless steel lugs, crown and pushers, black rubber strap, crystal sapphire front and back, water resistant up to 100 meters.
Cuff Links: Model BM 02 Rose gold and polished stainless steel, Retail price: $1,925.00
Please note any of our products (watches, pen or cuff links) are stamped, we manufacture all of them from a bloc of metal (titanium, stainless steel or rose gold) and completely finished by hands, which make every single piece unique!
Luxury to Bernard Richards means “technical skills and perfection in all stages of manufacture”
the 3 currently present in other up-market watches. More than 20 tracings are necessary for the accomplishment of the watch dial.
Instead of lugs rammed in the case-piece, we manufacture each element separately, hence the great difficulty of adding the lugs by screwing them onto the case. Thus, it is possible to assemble different materials and colors (black titanium case, polished stainless steel lugs/grey titanium case, polished stainless steel lugs).
For the hands, instead of resorting to any of the hundreds of possibilities offered by subcontractors, Bernard Richards created ornamental hands that are fit for only the most beautiful watches, like beautiful toe boards created by the transalpine automobile industry.
The cases are manufactured from 3m2 long bars of titanium, whereas the majority of competitors use a simple 16 to 18mm thick ramming. This technical wizardry is expressed in figures with 18 different case parts instead of the usual 2 or 3.
The assembly screws of the watch are also specific. Composed of three holes, their manufacturing requires almost 12 times more time than that of other competitors. All the major operations—fitting, assembling, setting and polishing— are performed by hand.
The strap buckle consists of no less than 12 components instead of luxuryautodirect.com
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Gear & gadgets Aston Martin DB6 Couch The master craftsmen at Aston Martin Heritage Designs have created this unique two-seater couch that is built into a replica of an Aston Martin DB6 rear end. Each of the limited editions is available in the customer’s preferred color scheme to match their home décor and is trimmed with the finest hides supplied by Spinneybeck. The couches come with an engraved number plate unique to each piece and Superleggera inlaid in each leg. Matching headrests are optional. $7,300 each. www.astonmartinheritagedesigns.com
Morel Fat Lady Speakers Two solid years of research and development at Morel were well spent to create its Fat Lady floor-standing speakers. Morel’s engineers used a unique mix of carbon, fiberglass, resin, and other materials to produce this audio marvel. Inside the speakers, we have two 9” woofers, a single 6” midrange and a 1.1” hand-coated soft dome tweeter; combined with the curvaceous contour, your tunes are dispersed perfectly. To complete the look, the speakers are finished with several layers of protective epoxy lacquer. $25,000 per pair. www.morelhifi.com
Mercedes 2008 SLK Collection Men’s Padded Gilet Following the introduction of the 2008 SLK, Mercedes-Benz launched a series of accessories for the revised roadster, including this sporty men’s padded gilet (vest). Although lightweight, this vest keeps its wearer warm, making it ideal for those open-top trips during the cooler months. This must have wardrobe accessory definitely complements the sporty look of the new SLK Collection. VThis vest and other 2008 SLK Collection items are available from authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers. www.mbusa.com 36
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Porsche Design P-7340 Kitchen The collaboration of Porsche Design and Poggenpohl, the oldest kitchen brand in the world, brings us the Porsche Design P-7340 Kitchen. Poggenpohl’s simple goal “is to improve the kitchen” making it possible for the company to break from tradition and adapt itself with the changing world for the best possible kitchen solutions. Pair this with Porsche’s experience in technological and functional perfection and we have possibly the most innovative kitchen in its class. There are 6 color designs to match every home décor with multiple surface materials to choose from, including exclusively colored metallic materials, texturized wooden surfaces, and satin glass and black granite tops. Available in USA and Canada, Spring 2008. Pre-order at www.poggenpohl-porsche-design-kitchen.com
Adams Golf DiXX Digital Training Putter The DiXX Putter is the latest technology in computerized training systems for golfers. It has advanced features such as a micro Inertial Navigation System (INS) that can identify the position of the putter. Additionally, a Micro Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) monitors the motion of the putter. The digital putter analyzes the data and is immediately able to display all of this information on its color LCD screen for optimized golf training. The DiXX Putter includes a computer terminal that can be removed and replaced with a practice weight, making the system completely portable. Available in lengths of 33”, 34” and 35”. $899.00 For a retailer near you, go to www.adamsgolf.com
Romano no.6 Steel Pool Table Carbon Studio presents a new edge to the billiards world with its steel pool table. The small design and manufacture company based out of Colorado builds modern billiard tables and accessories to compliment today’s shift toward loft, industrial and minimalistic urban styles. Each table is individually constructed from metal, cut and manipulated to produce unique works of art. The antique style pockets on the Romano no.6 are hand-made and lined with rubber pockets. Three piece 7/8” Italian slate is set upon a V-Lam frame which is supported by sculpted steel legs. The rails are constructed from 1/8” steel plate with inlaid polished steel sights. All of the steel is artistically polished, sheathed in a high UV resistant powder coating, providing a smooth easy to clean surface. Each table comes with a matching ball rack, set of regulation Belgian Aramith balls, two professional cues, chalk to match your choice of felt, felt brush, and a rule book. Prices start at $23,000. www.carbon-studio.com luxuryautodirect.com
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NORTH AMERICA
COMPLETE CUSTOM WHEEL INNOVATION
www.uberballer.com 877.444.UBER
luxuryautodirect.com 38 DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME
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Audi R8 V12 TDI
Show Stopper Audi unveiled the R8 V12 TDI concept at the detroit auto show
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udi presented a revolution in the top class at the Detroit Auto Show 2008: the first 12-cylinder diesel engine in a high-performance road-going sports car. The V12 TDI with a displacement of six liters powers a concept car based on the Audi R8. This unit generates a huge 500 hp and 1,000 Newton-meters (737.56 lb-ft) of torque. Audi is writing a new chapter in diesel technology with this power unit. Equipped with the expertise that Audi has built up through its motor sport activities, the R8 V12 TDI in matte “Grace Silver” embodies superb road handling, pioneering technology and fascinating design. The V12 TDI is closely related to the engine in the Audi R10, the two-time Le Mans winner—so it catapults the Audi R8 into supercar terrain concerning performance too. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 4.2 seconds and its top speed is well over 300 km/h (186.41 mph). The peak torque, reached at only 1,750 rpm, paves the way for effortless acceleration that is unrivaled even at this level.
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As is the case in the Audi V engines, the no-maintenance chain drive is mounted at the back of the engine, where it occupies little space. Its layout has changed on the new V12 TDI. The camshafts’ sprocket engages in an intermediate gear via which two Simplex chains drive the camshafts. Two more chains drive the oil pump and the two high-pressure pumps actuate the common rail injection system. The two new dual-piston high-pressure pumps form part of the common rail injection system supplied by specialty manufacturer Bosch. The two pumps build up a pressure of up to 2,000 bar in the rails. The more efficient combustion process also increases power output, cuts consumption and reduces pollutant emissions. The Audi R8 V12 TDI concept already fulfills the Euro 6 emissions standard that is likely to take effect in 2014 and calls for sharply reduced nitrogen oxides. The entire bodyshell of the study car weighs just 210 kilograms (462.97 lbs.). In ASF technology, the body’s supporting structure is made of extruded aluminum sections
Audi R8 V12 TDI and die-castings. It adds up to a car that’s particularly light and rigid, an outcome that can be felt in the R8’s ultra-precise driving feel. The aerodynamics experts at Audi have done their work so thoroughly on the study car that, as an added benefit of its elegant shape, the body actually generates downforce. This aids directional stability at high speeds. It is achieved partly by means of an extending rear spoiler that is much larger than on the production version. The R8 V12 TDI concept is more than just machine. It’s art. With matte “Grace Silver” bodywork, the concept looks even wider and more resolute than the core model, flaunting its potential with muscular proportions, accentuated wheel arches and even larger air apertures. The rhombus-pattern cover on the air inlets and outlets is the hallmark of Audi’s sporty top models and a familiar feature of the current RS generation. Typical of the side view of the R8 is the sideblade. Much wider in the bottom third, it visually accentuates the engine’s position as well as acting as an enlarged air deflector. The continuous aluminum spoiler lip that connects the front and rear diffusers with side air baffles below the enlarged sills also pays tribute to this version’s highly developed dynamic talents. And yet the R8 is unmistakable for its powerful, elegant basic proportions. The selective but always precise use of lines is another typical Audi characteristic, as is the curved arc of the roof. One new aspect is the glass roof of the passenger compartment with two large transparent sections. These, together with the glazed engine compartment behind, create a radically
new formal element. The interior’s design is as sporty and exclusive as the exterior: the characteristic element here is the monoposto—an expansive arc running around the steering wheel and instruments, connecting the driver to the car. The interior consequently picks up on the dynamism of the R8 V12 TDI concept and gives it tactile expression in a form that is accessible the moment you climb in. The three-spoke sport steering wheel of course remains the focal point of the car’s controls. With a diameter of 365 mm (14.37 in.), it is both sportily compact and ergonomic in shape. Concentrating on the essentials was the priority in the ergonomic arrangement of all Audi R8 versions. The most important consideration—particularly for high-speed driving—is short reach distances for all controls, to keep the time that the driver has only one hand on the steering wheel to a bare minimum. The start/stop button for the engine and the Drive Select switch with the Dynamic/ Sport/Race settings are arranged on the steering wheel. The latter controls the engine and transmission electronics as well as the magnetic ride dampeners in each of three different modes. In Race mode, the instrument lighting changes from white to red. The navigation system shows a combined display with lap timer and navigation information for the racetrack being driven. Or supplementary information such as centrifugal force and boost pressure can be called up. The R8’s exceptional everyday practicality for a sports car is maintained in the study vehicle’s spaciousness, even though the longer engine takes up more room. The two occupants have
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The V12 TDI is closely related to the engine in the Audi R10, the two-time Le Mans winner—so it catapults the Audi R8 into supercar terrain concerning performance too. the generous wheelbase of 2.65 meters (8.69 ft.) to thank for the interior comfort. This means the driver and passenger will always be able to find their perfect-seated position, whatever their build. Audi has reached another milestone in diesel technology with the new V12 TDI. The brand with the four rings has been performing vital pioneering work in this area for the past three decades. Audi premiered the world’s first five-cylinder diesel engine in the Audi 100 in 1978. The first TDI auto engine made its debut in 1989 in the successor model. The 2.5 liter five-cylinder power unit developed 88 kW (120 hp) and 261 Nm, catapulting diesel driving into an entirely new dimension. Today, with extremely clean, ultra-low emission technology, Audi is continuing its tradition of leadership in diesel engine technology. 44
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quick specs price to be announced engine 6.o TDI Diesel V12 Aspiration TWIN TURBOCHARGED ValVetrain DOHC Transmission 6 Speed horsepower 500 hp weight n/a 0-60 4.2 seconds top speed 186+ mph
In 1989 it was the Ingolstadt brand that developed direct injection technology. Since then the diesel engine has become around 30 percent more efficient. The Euro 4 European emission standard has reduced particulate emissions for cars by 93 percent. Long before it came into force, Audi had models on the market that met this standard, even without a particulate filter. And the brand will be offering the world’s cleanest diesel engines in production vehicles in 2008. The TDI engines with the ultra-low emission system will be the first in the world to meet the forthcoming EU 6 emission standard as well as the toughest known statutory limits that apply in the U.S.
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Carlisle Auctions
Consignment Fees Have Been Lifted
arlisle Auctions has recently announced that they will waive the general consignment fee for the 2008 Spring, Corvette and Fall Auctions. This change to the auction business structure will be an industry first. Consignment fees have always been in place to protect the company from reserve auctions. With the recent emergence of collector car auctions for the public and the widespread notoriety from television coverage, Michael Cornfield the Senior Director of Marketing commented, “The strategy behind this shift is to entice additional auction registrants who will be more likely to partake in the live auction process. Based on the industry-wide decline in sales figures, we believe this will create the buzz needed to break through the now saturated auction market.” Carlisle Auctions, an extension of Carlisle Events, is a leader in the collector car market. Through continual analysis of the competitive landscape together with keeping abreast of market trends, Carlisle Auctions has built a reputation for stimulating and supporting the automotive hobby. As such, you could expect a major change of this nature to be brought to fruition by the Carlisle Auctions group. When asked about the future of the automotive hobby, Cornfield stated, “The past few years have demonstrated that the U.S. economy cannot overshadow the passion that arises from our automotive audiences. Carlisle Auctions has seen a continual growth over the past few years and I want to thank all of our cus46
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tomers and employees for making our events a huge success.” There are of course some minor stipulations that must be fulfilled in order to take advantage of this incentive. Consignors must provide the Carlisle Auctions group with the necessary marketing assets to promote the auction inventory which include a brief description about the seller’s vehicle and multiple high-resolution photos for publishing. These criteria have been set in place to assist with promoting the auction inventory and to provide our customers with the most accurate vehicle information prior to the auction day. For more information and details about this offer, please visit www.CarlisleAuctions.com
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SPOTLIGHT
What if Luxury meant “Charisma”? Where everything you need to know about a legend, is at your fingertips.
here is no question about the singularity of Hummers. Whether you refer to the all Classic H1 seen in some of the most extraordinary situations….. from battlefields to TV commercials, to off-roading fun, or even parked on a very “chic” avenue in Beverly Hills…everyone has seen the impact an H1 generates on all! Or, if you are embracing the future with the H2, or H3 series, where the all tuned-up Hummer source rebounds on to a more athletic spirit. This is where the whole idea of a 100% Hummer-dedicated website originated. In 2001, the entire team of TheCarExperience. com specializing in Luxury and Exotic cars only, found Hummers too important to be mixed with any other motorized specialties. That’ is why a brand new website was created, with sole intention to promote, support, highlight, and discuss AMG Hummers. The Hummer Experience staff is a highly trained and knowledgeable team, who knows to surrounds itself with authorized 48
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dealers, manufacturers. Therefore, they can assist any type of request. The original idea is to be a marketplace, where clients buy, or sell their Hummer. These clients are dealers, and private parties. Just like any other classifieds website….the only difference is this place is Hummer dedicated only. Through such selective strategy, 98% of the daily visitors are, one way or the other, interested in Hummers only. This is the recipe for The Hummer Experience’s success… As seen as in various industries, specialty businesses are most of the time chosen versus broad enterprises. As a consumer, we tend to give greater credit to a company dedicated to a special product, as opposed to a none specific establishment. And when placing an ad for a Hummer, The Hummer Experience is the greatest leads generator, since the population brows-
ing this site belongs to the Hummer enthusiasts. This 400-page website is filled with any of our Hummer needs, which has left anyone who saw it, thrilled by such great Hummer Experience… The effect brings us one step closer to the stunning story pioneered by these Hummers, exactly as we would expect them to be, if we were absolute strangers to the whole name. By the time you pay a few visits to this website, next time you park your vehicle, you might hear: “Hey! That’s a Hummer!”, and you will attract your share of cell phone photos. Take a look at www.TheHummerExperience.com for proof, and submerge yourself into a brand new world.
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Reach Over 80,000 High-end Automotive Enthusiasts Monthly
www.luxuryautodirect.com
Photo courtesy of Kahn Design
For advertising information call 813-920-1988 or email us at sales@luxuryautodirect.com 50
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Skyview Aviation, LLC
Skyview Limo Service, LLC
Skyview Exotic Car Rental, LLC
407-345-5651 • www.skyviewexoticcars.com • www.flyskyview.com Skyview Exotic Car Rental, LLC is an Orlando luxury car rental agency. Our Fleet includes some of the world’s sought after exotic cars in the industry! Besides exotic cars, we offer luxury limos, tour bus rental, luxury mansion rental and superior first class jets.
$8,000/day
$9,900/day
Mercedes McLaren SLR
$795/day
Lamborghini Gallardo
$795/day
Bentley Continental GT
$199/day Panoz AVI
Saleen S7
$1,295/day
Ferrari 360 Spider
$1,295/day
Ferrari 360 Spider
$289 /day Dodge Viper
$649/day
Jaguar XK Convertible
$349/day
Chevrolet Corvette
$1,500 /day Ford Mustang GT Eleanor
Silver Lake Mansion - Leesburg, FL
Lease Available for any Occasion! Call for complete inventory list • Must be 25 years of age to rent vehicles. luxuryautodirect.com
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Emotional performance
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Mercedes-Benz SL AMG
The sportiest SL-Class eveR
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motional performance courtesy of cutting-edge engineering: the new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG in a nutshell. The roadster is powered by an AMG 6.3liter V8 engine developing 525 hp – which makes it today’s most powerful naturally aspirated V8 engine in its class. The SL 63 AMG comes with the all-new, innovative AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed sports transmission. This newly developed power transfer concept features a compact, wet start-up clutch that replaces the conventional torque converter. The resulting direct connection to the powertrain, together with the double-declutching and Race Start functions, guarantees an extremely emotional, supremely dynamic driving experience. The SL 63 AMG sets new standards in the open-top sports car segment thanks to this outstanding drive combination and the retuned, even more agile AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control resulting in the sportiest SL-Class ever. The AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine teams up with the AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed sports transmission to form a perfect partnership for dynamic driving pleasure and outstanding performance. The SL 63 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds before quickly going on to a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). The high-revving naturally aspirated engine generates 525 hp at 6800 rpm from a displacement of 6208 cubic centimeters, delivering maximum torque of 630 Newton meters at 5200 rpm.
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The unique combination of high-revving concept and large displacement achieves the best of both worlds: high pulling power at low engine speeds coupled with exhilarating high-revving flexibility – right up to 7200 rpm. The AMG V8 is packed with a wealth of fascinating racetrack technology, including the lightweight, extra-rigid closed-deck crankcase and cylinder walls with a revolutionary TWAS coating as well as the valve train designed for high engine speeds with bucket tappets in the cylinder heads. The vertical arrangement of the intake and exhaust ports together with the variable intake manifold featuring two integral throttle flaps results in superlative cylinder charging and high power output. The AMG Speedshift MCT 7speed sports transmission is an all-new, unique concept, available exclusively in the new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG. It combines the best of two worlds: the sporty, direct and agile feedback of a manual transmission and the maximum convenience of an automatic transmission. Fitted with seven speeds, four drive modes, a double-declutching and Race Start function, the AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed sports transmission offers unprecedented versatility. MCT stands for Multi Clutch Technology and only employs clutch elements to perform gearshifts. At the heart of the new AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed sports transmission lies the wet start-up clutch, which runs in an oil bath and replaces the previous torque converter. Thanks to its low rotation-
Mercedes-Benz SL AMG
al inertia, the transmission responds instantaneously and dynamically with no slip. Accelerator pedal movements trigger an instant traction response. Fitted with four drive modes: “C” (Comfort), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) and “M” (Manual), the transmission provides gearshifting with no loss of tractive force and supports customized control strategies for maximum driving pleasure. In “C” mode the gearshifts are comfortable, coupled with a “soft” accelerator response set-up for outstandingly smooth power transfer. In “S” mode the engine and transmission interact with more “bite”: the engine speed is allowed to reach a higher level in each gear; the downshifts also feel more spontaneous. The gearshifts are around 20 percent faster than in “C” mode. Switching to “S+” mode cuts another 20 percent off shift times, while “M” is the sportiest mode: here the AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine has even more power, added to which the transmission
shifts gears another 10 percent faster – a reduction of 50 percent compared with “C” mode. In “M” mode the gearshifts take just 100 milliseconds. Ultra-fast, spontaneous multiple downshifts are another forte of the new MCT sports transmission. For instance, kickdown lets you move straight from seventh down to fourth gear or from fifth to second. In the “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) and “M” (Manual) modes the automatic double-declutching function is active. Every manual or automatic downshift is accompanied by precisely metered double-declutching – from “S” through “S+” to “M” incrementally. And this not only adds to the driver’s emotional experience: the virtually load-free downshift minimizes load-change reactions, which pays dividends particularly when braking into a bend on the racetrack. The appearance of the SL 63 AMG now gives away its exceptional status more than ever before. The new-look front apron with a more pronounced luxuryautodirect.com
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quick specs
The AMG V8 is packed with a wealth of fascinating racetrack technology,
wedge shape, black-painted radiator grille, larger cooling air intakes and lower transverse fin painted in black harmonizes perfectly with the redesigned front end of the SL Class, giving it a decidedly masculine aura. The distinctive AMG bonnet more than hints at the unique power unit underneath. Bi-xenon headlamps with their dark surrounds, and large round fog lamps set well to the side in chrome surrounds also emphasize the vehicle’s width. The hot air from the additional engine oil cooler in the front wheel arch escapes through side air outlets in the front apron. New exterior mirrors featuring LED indicators with a pronounced arrow shape catch the eye as do the matte-silver-painted AMG trim panels on the front wings with “6.3 AMG” lettering. The interior of the new SL 63 AMG offers an alluring combination of exclusive equipment details and a dynamic, practical look. The eye is drawn to the new AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel with its three-spoke design and aluminum AMG shift paddles. The grip area 56
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price $221,518 engine V12 Aspiration Twin Turbo ValVetrain DOHC Transmission MCT 7-Speed horsepower 612 hp weight n/a 0-60 n/a top speed n/a
is specially shaped and covered in perforated leather, while the vertical spoke is embellished by a silver-colored insert. Behind sits the new AMG instrument cluster with “6.3 V8” lettering on the rev counter and the new-look instrument cluster trimmed in Nappa leather with double topstitching above the round gauges. As soon as the ignition is switched on, the speedometer and rev counter needles rotate in unison around the dials to their maximum values and then instantly revert to their original positions. The AMG main menu integrated in the AMG instrument cluster displays the currently engaged gear including recommended upshifts, the “Racetimer” with lap times, information on the engine oil temperature and battery voltage, along with the activated transmission drive mode. For more information on the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG or new AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed technologies, please visit www.mercedes-benz.com
memorabilia 1/12 scale 1996 McLaren F1 GTR “Marlboro”
These 16” long models are completely resin cast, feature lovely paintwork with full engine and interior details, body fasteners, GTR rear wing and OZ wheels. Limited to 22 editions. Canadian $1995
“Fangio / Cuban GP”
A very limited edition reprint of the famous 1958 Cuban GP event poster where Fangio was kidnapped. Each poster has been signed by Fangio and comes with a signing photo and his original business card. Roughly 70 of these were signed back in 1994 at Fangio’s office in Buenos Aires, on May 1/94. This was the same day his friend Senna was killed, and several months before he passed on, making these among the last group of signatures ever! Fangio can be seen on the cover art in the rare Lancia-Ferrari D50 (28x19”) Canadian $2095
1984 Richard Petty race used STP 2 piece suit Possibly worn at Daytona, Canadian $9995
“High Rollers” by Jay Koka A large canvas giclee showing the Enzo, F50 & F40 parked in front of the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. You can see the Bellagio in the backround. Tiny edition of 20, measuring 48x36”, Canadian $1995
Items provided by www.thememorabiliaexperience.com luxuryautodirect.com
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CLASSIC SPORTS SUNDAY by Robert Smith Jr. s part of the Cavallino Classic’s week of events, there was a new experience on the Sunday, an innovative automobile show dedicated to the true enthusiast for true sports cars. Named Classic Sports Sunday, the theme was old and new sports and race cars from all manufacturers. It came about from the fact that many of the participants in the Ferrari-based Cavallino Classic also owned other fine sports cars, but had no place to display them during the mid-winter season in Florida. This new show also appealed to the many sports car aficionados in South Florida who were heavily involved in other marques. Held on the grounds of the Hilton Hotel Airport, the 1,000 enthusiasts braved early morning rain to see 130 unique and special sports and race cars, from a bug-eyed Sprite to a Lola T-70. Arranged in groups according to marque, the displays included some exceptional examples of each type, including early and late examples that gave a nice panorama of each marque and its history. In the British contingent, there were some very nice DB5, DB6 and DB7 Aston Martins. Austin Healeys are rare at events nowadays, but CSS had several with an early 100-4 being prominent. The Jaguars were well represented with XK-120s, 140s and 150s vying for attention with the
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Cavallino Classic sports sunday
radial (for its time) XK-E. A pristine XJ220 took the interest of the younger generation. Rounding out the British group was an extremely uncommon Lea Francis 2.5 Sport next to an equally unique Connaught L3-SR. Among the American classes, the Corvettes were predominant, followed by a good class of Dodge Vipers. The Ford class was more diverse, with everything from Thunderbirds, Mustangs and Cobras to three of the very latest GT-40s. Porsche had the next largest group, with the later Caymans, Carreras and 993s holding court, but mixed in could be spied some nice early 911s and 914s, now less often seen publicly. Mercedes had a varied group as well, with the 190 SL gaining the most attention. There were only a handful of BMWs, but their lack was more than made up for by the quality, including the hardly seen
and always extraordinary type 507. Among the Japanese, the Nissan Skylines were a hit, along with the several Toyotas, including a rare 2000 GT and a high horsepower Celica All-Trac. Lamborghinis had the aggressive looking Gallardo and Diablo, while the Ferrari presentation was light, no doubt a case of Ferrari-fatigue after six days of the preceding Classic. Some were noteworthy, however, including a very well preserved 365 GTB/4 Daytona. In the truly race worthy class was the Lola T-70, and a rare Chevron B-16 with a good race history. The much newer Radicals were also on scene, but the showstopper among the newer race cars was the immaculate Mosler MT900S. The most unusual car at CSS was a Speciale, conceived and built by the creative genius of Jason Wenig, at his aptly named The Creative Workshop. Known as a restorer of some clout, Jason decided to make his own sports car for a client. Utilizing components from existing sports cars along with extensive custom fabrication, he melded everything together into something truly unique. The design is modeled on the curvaceous ideas and forms of the sports
racers from the 1950s and 1960s, but the final product is not imitative in the least. Borrowing concepts that are part of our sports car heritage, the CW Speciale is a matchless blend of form and function and standing as an individual creation in its own right. Owned by Barry and Lynn Smith, it took the Award for the Most Unique car at the CSS, richly deserved. Among the other Major Award winners were James Thomas’ BMW 507 gaining Most Elegant, Craig Zinn’s 2000 GT taking Vintage Honors, and Carlos Arboleya’s Diablo SV garnering Best Daily Driver. Best of Show GT was handed to Barry Moss for his Jaguar XJS V12, and Best of Show Competition went to Fred Larsen’s Lola T70 MK3. These and the Class Awards were decided upon after a thorough inspection of the cars in the morning and final deliberation by a group of invited Judges, all of them experts in their particular area. Classic Sports Sunday was organized by the staff of the Cavallino Classic, with the same attention to quality and detail that have become the hallmark of the Classic. Plans are to slowly grow this new Classic event until it becomes the premier multi-marque sports car event of the winter season in Florida. luxuryautodirect.com
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Luxury Auto 07 class.
8/24/07
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SERENADE Dual Time Zones Automatic, Patented GV- AOASE Movement 18K White Gold. Louisiana Crocodile. Limited Edition: 50 Pieces www.gevril.com 66
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