Luxury Auto Direct

Page 1

November 2008

USA $5.99

Wicked 7 Mega Wide Body Porsche


The Helmet and

Striker Simulator Motorsport Simulators, LLC is pleased to announce the Striker Simulator a professional open wheel trainer. The Striker is a fully loaded turnkey simulator with all of the features professioanl drivers would expect. You simply plug in the AC power and press the starter and you are driving. Just like our other models, it is light weight and tough making the Striker ideal for team transport or commercial settings.

(817) 944-7791

www.motorsportsimulators.com


Firesuit are Optional

Features

• Full hydraulic adjustable race pedal assembly (patent pending)

• Transportable, light weight design with its strong

• Computer controlled force feedback

aluminum tubular chassis

detachable MOMO steering wheel

• Turn-key, no assembly required with quick

• Programmable shift lights

mount plasmas

• Both sequential and paddle shifters

• Plasma displays come with their own hard anvil

• Radio wiring harness and simulator audio feed

case for transport

• Superb high fidelity sound system

• Suspended Formula Tub, Pro Mazda Replica

and bass transducers

with a large cavity

• Video/audio streaming with telemetry support

• Three axis-motion system with programmable

allowing remote collaboration

roll, yaw and pitch

• Many proprietary cars and track included

• Triple 50” professional series plasma displays

• Hundreds of tracks and cars included

with 3840 x 1024 resolution

• Motec data acquisition and telemetry support




contents

November 2008

14 10

Open-Top Rocket

14

Virtual Racer

22

Wicked Passion

40

Redefining “Custom� Wheels

44

Hardcore Four-Door

56

Grande Finale

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster S

Citroen GT Concept

22

Wicked 7 Mega Wide Body Porsche

Cor Wheels Spotlight

Lamborghini Estoque Concept

Bentley Arnage Final Series

54

Concorso Italiano

60

Flawless Beauties

72

Newport Concours

44

10

Hamann Aston Martin V8 Vantage

56

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.


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866.386.5978


GLAMOUR Diamond Collection Automatic 25 Jewels Available with Bracelet Louisiana Crocodile

Gevril USA – 1-866-425-9882 www.gevril.com Gevril Switzerland – Rue Meval 20, 2720 Tramelan – Switzerland info@gevril.ch



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new

open-top

Rocket Mercedes- Benz’s Most Thrilling high-performance roadster

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Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S

I

t’s no surprise that with the racing pedigrees of McLaren and Mercedes-Benz that their newest collaboration, the street legal Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S, runs wide open—from the high-powered engine to the wide-open top. Delivering 650hp, acceleration from 0 to 60 in 3.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 208 mph, this two-seater cabriolet surpasses the existing benchmark among open-top super sports cars. While enjoying exceptional performance, the new roadster’s occupants in no way lose out in terms of comfort or the vehicle’s suitability for everyday use. With its sporty, premium-quality interior appointments and distinctive motorsport pedigree, the new SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S is limited to 150 vehicles and will inspire even the most discerning automotive enthusiasts.

By naming this new model variant the SLR Roadster 722 S, Mercedes-Benz is recalling the historic victory won at the classic Mille Miglia long-distance race in 1955 by British motor-racing legend Stirling Moss and his co-driver Dennis Jenkinson, in a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR with the starting number 722. The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S continues the legend of the successful 1950s SLR racing sports cars, with innovative technology adopted from the world of motorsports. The powerful heart of the SLR Roadster 722 S is a supercharged 5.5-liter V8 engine, which is hand-built in the Mercedes-AMG engine shop in Affalterbach. The special strengths of this high-performance engine include extraordinary responsiveness to movements of the accelerator, a high torque and an unmistakable V8 sound. Moreover, with

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new

an output of 650 hp and 627 lb/ft of torque, power is on tap almost to excess. The five-speed automatic transmission developed by MercedesBenz is designed for high performance. It is specially configured for a very high torque, and allows the driver to choose between two sets of shift characteristics. As a result the roadster achieves performance figures that are even outstanding for the high-end sports car segment: the SLR Roadster 722 S absolves a sprint from zero to 60 in a breathtaking 3.7 seconds, and 124 mph is reached in 10.6 seconds. The maximum speed is 208 mph, which is unrivalled by any other seriesproduction roadster. The spring and shock absorber configurations of the suspension are stiffer, and the body has been lowered by 10 millimeters at the

front and rear. This ensures the greater handling stability of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S, with a significant improvement in handling dynamics. The lightweight, 19-inch forged aluminum wheels allow a view of the red-painted brake calipers on the highly resistant carbon-fiber/ceramic brake discs, which make for impressive deceleration figures. The handling and aerodynamics of this high-end roadster were optimized for high speeds in the wind tunnel. The aerodynamic concept follows that of the SLR CoupĂŠ, with an airbrake integrated into the boot lid, an enclosed underbody and a diffusor in the rear bumper to ensure the greatest possible downforce on the rear axle. The socalled airsplitter at the front end augments this downforce, while small wheel spoilers reduce turbulence at the rear axle. The result is precise

...the new SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S is limited to 150 vehicles and will inspire the most discerning automotive enthusiasts. 12

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Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S

handling and steering at high speeds. The outstanding qualities of the 722 S are complemented by the fully recessible fabric soft top, which blends harmoniously into the flowing lines of the roadster. The weave structure of this high-tech roof material reflects the carbon-fiber look, guarantees full day-to-day suitability in any weather conditions and allows the vehicle a top speed of 335 km/h – an unusual figure for a roadster. Thanks to the vehicle’s favorable aero-acoustics, conversation during open-air journeys is still possible at well over 200 km/h. The soft top opens and closes semiautomatically in around ten seconds, combining comfort expectations with the purist nature of the roadster. For opening, the roof needs to be unlatched at the windscreen frame and lifted slightly, after which it folds down electrically. The front section of the soft top features an

integral aluminum cap, which effectively prevents “ballooning” at high speeds. In technical terms the 722 S benefits from the long experience of Mercedes-Benz and its Formula-1 partner McLaren. With the exception of two aluminum frames, the body is completely of carbon-fiber materials (CFRP). This makes it highly exceptional among high-performance sports cars. Especially for the roadster, the sophisticated carbon-fiber technology was developed further for the monocoque. The result is low weight, exemplary energy absorption and therefore a high level of occupant safety, plus a torsional rigidity that is unprecedented for an open-top car. It allows outstanding handling characteristics that are otherwise only found in closed super-sports cars. In addition, a high level of safety is provided by unique carbon-fi-

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new

quick specs production 150 engine 5.5-liter V8 weight na Transmission 5 Speed auto horsepower 650 hp production 150 0-60 3.7 secs top speed 208 mph ber crash structures, steel-reinforced A-pillars and two fixed rollover bars. Other safety features include adaptive airbags, knee and sidebags, belt tensioners and a tire pressure monitoring system. The roadster has a crystal antimony grey paint finish, which highlights the sculptured look of this high-performance car particularly effectively. The carbon-fiber technology is visually complemented by the black, grid-like air vents on the bonnet and the front and rear light modules with palladium grey surrounds. In the interior, outstanding lateral support is guaranteed by sports bucket seats uphol14

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stered in a combination of semi-aniline leather and Alcantara. Frequently used controls such as the shift and parking brake levers are lined in particularly high-grip and moisture-absorbing suede leather. In the interior too, the generous use of carbon fiber underlines the high-performance philosophy. This limited edition of 150 examples will be predominantly hand-built at McLarens’s Formula 1 workshops in Woking, England, and will be available from January 1, 2009.


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concept

virtual

racer CROSS OVER TO THE VIRTUAL WORLD

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Citroen GT Concept

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concept

GTbyCITROËN is geared to the world of motor racing, with its dynamic styling, sculpted lines and sharp graphics.

A

n original take on a road car, the Citroen GT is a replica of a vehicle from the digital world. The car is the result of a partnership between Citroen and Polyphony, designer of the driving simulation game Gran Turismo 5 on Playstation 3. With more than 50 million units sold worldwide, Gran Turismo is renowned for its quality, design and realism. In the game, Citroen GT features an electric drive train powered by a fuel cell with no pollutant emissions. It is a car designed to square up to the competition while making the smallest impact on the environment. Kazanori Yamauchi, President of Polyphony Digital Inc and creator of the game Gran Turismo explained, “We were delighted that Citroen approached us and gave us the opportunity to combine our creative strengths to build this very special concept car. To see the car take shape in game and then for real has been a truly unique experience, as our work normally stays in the digital world. I just hope I can get behind the wheel of Citroen GT and 18

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drive it on a real race track!” In the first project of its kind, the GTbyCITREN shows how the virtual world can be combined with the world of real-life motoring to create a truly innovative partnership. As its digital counterpart, the Citroen GT is geared to the world of motor racing, with its dynamic styling, sculpted lines and sharp graphics. The design of Citroen GT reflects a quest for optimal aerodynamic design—although the gaming version may not have to be wind tunnel approved, even they are still designed for the real world. The show-car features flowing, taut lines, stretched to the extreme. The cleanly sculpted sides, ribbed at the top, and the pearlescent shade of the bodywork enhance the vehicle’s sleek and muscular frame. The rear end is over sized, made longer in order to create a visual effect. The idea is to make the concept car appear fast even by design. The white-to-grey gradation on the body side further underlines this impression of continuous movement.


Citroen GT Concept

The front end is enhanced by wide air intakes and clear-cut horizontal headlamps. The headlamps feature penetrating blue LEDs in order to light the road effectively and, in the spirit of the vehicle’s inspiration, keep rivals at a respectful distance! The carbon rearview mirrors on their finely profiled supports appear to be suspended as slicing through the air, giving Citroen GT an excellent on-road stance. The large wraparound windscreen flows seamlessly into the roof and on into the rear mobile airfoil with its exaggeratedly long shape. The fast-flowing lines create the impression of a car in perpetual movement ready to perform. Looking beyond the spectacular visual effect, the gullwing opening of the two doors gives Citroen GT a level of accessibility rarely seen on this type of vehicle. The driver and co-driver can therefore slip into their seats and get out on the track as quickly as possible. The cabin luxuryautodirect.com

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concept

of Citroen GT expresses the grand touring vision behind this show-car. The on-board ambience allies premium, extensively worked materials with a more high-tech effect inspired by the world of motorsports. The dark interior of this show-car is a surprise, compared with the light bodywork. Upholstered in black leather with subtle touches of rare materials like copper and steel, the cabin of Citroen GT is distinctly sporty. Two padded racing seats upholstered in dark leather, each fitted with a four-point harness, cradle the driver and passenger. Placed low in the cockpit to highlight the impression of speed, the elegant seats are a perfect fit with the rest of the interior. The top stitched leather of the door panels and floor adds to the opulence. The dashboard, with its clean uncluttered design, flows into the receding lines of an imposing copper sculpture. The thrusting modern lines of the sculpture become the central tunnel of the vehicle, illustrating the power of Citroen GT and

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appearing to catalyze its strength. Looking beyond its taut, dynamic lines, this racing car features innovative equipment such as enlarged air intakes at the front, a flat underside, and a mobile spoiler and air diffuser at the rear. All these features play an active role in reducing lift and drag to pin the car to the ground. With its flowing lines, original architecture and its use—in the game—of what is potentially the best environmental technology, Citroen GT embodies the sporting spirit as seen by Citroen and underlines the Marque’s ambitions to meet new challenges.


Complete Coverage . . . . . . for Whatever You Drive . . .

Even Ferrari!

800-441-6287 2435 Wisconsin Street • Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-769-1500 • fax 630-769-0300

Specialists in Original Equipment and Aftermarket Automotive Accessories

©2008 MacNeil Automotive Products Limited luxuryautodirect.com

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custom

Wicked

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Wicked 7 wide body porsche

passion v

icked Motor Works, located in North Hollywood, California, constantly strives to remain at the pinnacle of innovation in Custom Porsche Wide Body Transformations. The customs shop is always redesigning, evolving and enhancing their vehicles year after year, ensuring they continue to produce the most individually stylish custom wide body Porsches on the market today. Pioneers in the industry, we contacted them to see what makes this iconic customs shop a legend in the industry. Founder, Koko Barsoumian, began his journey and love of Porsches over 20 years ago, when he first saw a brochure of two 930 Turbo Wide Body Porsches resting on the shores of a pebbled beach, before sunset. He had never seen such a romantic design, curves and such stature embodied in one automobile in his young life. It looked like royalty to him. And the smile that photo put on his face paved the road of his life, love and career with Porsches. As with many ambitions—in this case, a passion for excellence and individuality when redesigning on of Germany’s most recognized sports cars—there are countless disappointments and celebrations.

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custom

We have a strong belief in individual style and personality, and it shines through in our products. 24

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Wicked 7 wide body porsche

However, it is these wins and defeats that are priceless to a growing company, as experience is irreplaceable. This is a crucial element to business that comes with nothing less than years of trial and error. If one has the ambition to endure this period, then one is ultimately rewarded with realizing their dreams and success. In Wicked’s case, the company now offers numerous services, all executed with precision. The shop can convert exterior bodies to the most current Wicked-7 Mega Widebody, customize the interior to any custom fabric (leather, suede, etc), pattern (diamond, stock, etc), accents (color match, double stitching, etc), material (carbon fiber, aluminum, billet, etc), and give clients a choice of 19” or 20” 3piece custom color coded wheels. We spoke with Barsoumian about Wicked Motor Works, his customs, and his insatiable drive to create. Barsoumian explained, “Our expertise resides in steel wide body design and structural enhancements. There are many fly by night “Tuners” out there, which generally have no design or business experience. They get an investor or family money to start up a tuner shop, and they burn through the money in

1-3 years and go out of business.” He continued, “We have a strong belief in individual style and personality, and it shines through in our products.” True to his words, while Wicked does offer certain models like the Wicked-7 Steel Mega Wide Body Conversion to customers, most of the customs Wicked Motor Works designs are different than the last, as the customers commissioning the pieces are different from the last. The company spends times with their clients; they get to know them. On top of a growing relationship, the employees at Wicked are then able to work out how best to incorporate their newest friend’s personality into a wide body Porsche. It’s an intricate process, but the outcome is amazing. Not only does the client receive a one off, he or she receives a one off that directly reflects who they are as a person. Barsoumian Continued, “Some passionate ideas may look very appealing in the design stage, but may be absolutely unusable in function and practice. We have had our fair share of great ideas that didn’t turn out so great. We also learned how one modification in structure, effects many other aspects of the vehicle. The best way to explain

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custom

it is ‘there is a reaction for every action’ and we had to learn to modify in concert to create harmony of design, modification, fabrication and function. To achieve this is truly artistic and that is why machinists and design artists must come together to achieve these wonderful creations. One cannot function without the other and still produce excellence.” It is this innate understanding of balance that undoubtedly gives Wicked Motor Works a leg up to the competition. The shop has been in the industry for over twenty years, and yet, Wicked’s passion for the Bavarian beauty and resulting her physique have never faltered. If anything, both Barsoumian and his employees have only become more entranced by Porsche’s spell—and Porsche lovers are definitely thankful. Barsoumian explained why they do what they do, and, of course, why they do it better than anyone else, “We are the longest Porsche steel body design and fabrication company in existence. The rest are all fiberglass body kit shops. We build our famous Wicked-7 Steel Mega Wide Body Conversion like an assembly line and, after years of building them, have it down to a science. Over the Years, our Wicked-7’s have gotten better in design, function, fitment, and finish. We have turn key cars ready for clients to buy and drive; we have cars standing by and ready to be converted to a 26

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Wicked-7 per the custom design of the client; and we accept client cars from around the world to convert to the Wicked-7 per the personal design of the individual client. We can tune your Turbo Porsche from 500hp - 1,000hp, and we have add on superchargers to increase the Carrera’s horsepower by 100hp for a total of over 400hp.” Barsoumian concluded, “Your imagination is our only limit. In short, there is nothing you can want to do to your Porsche that we will say no to.”



Domani Motors

World’s Largest Lamborghini Retailer

888-814-6606

www.domanimotors.com

07 Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder E-Gear Pearl Yellow

07 Ferrari F430 F1 Spider Red/Tan

04 Ferrari 575M Red/Tan 3,000 miles

08 Maybach 57S

08 Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder E-Gear

Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe

07 Ferrari F430 Spider F1 Black/Tan


Lamborghini Murcielago Coupe E-Gear

06 Bentley Flying Spur Dark Sapphire

08 Lamborghini Gallardo E-Gear Coupe

05 Lamborghini Gallardo Coupe Pearl Green Ferrari 07 F430 Spider F1 Black/Tan 2k 07 F430 Spider F1 Red/Tan 1k 06 F430 Coupe F1 Red/Tan 3k 06 F430 Spider F1 Red/Tan 2k 05 F430 Spider F1 Red/Tan 1k 05 360 Spider F1 Red/Tan 6k 04 575M F1 Red/Tan 3k 03 360 Modena F1 Yellow/Black 3k 99 F355 Spider F1 Silver/Black 11k 94 348 Spider Red/Tan Fully Serviced! 90 Testarossa Red/Tan 4k Bentley 09 Brooklands Coupe Black/Linen 07 Continental GTC White/Tan 2k 07 GT Mulliner 3k Grey/Black 06 Continental GT Black 22” Wheels 7k

06 Flying Spur Dark Sapphire/Tan 7k Lamborghini 08 Gallardo Coupe White/Black 700 miles 08 LP640 Roadster White/Black 5k 08 Gallardo Superleggera Black/Black 1k 08 Gallardo Spyder Pearl Orange/Black 4k 07 LP640 Coupe Pearl Yellow/Black 2k 07 Gallardo Spyder Pearl Yellow/Black 1k 07 Gallardo NERA Edition 1k 06 Gallardo Spyder Silver/Black 5k 05 Gallardo Pearl Green/Black 4k 05 Gallardo Pearl Yellow/Black 4k 05 Murcielago Coupe Red/Black 3k 04 Murcielago Coupe Yellow/Black 4k Rolls Royce 08 Phantom Drophead Coupe Black 200 miles 07 Phantom Black 500 miles

Bentley Brooklands

Rolls Royce 05 Phantom Black 10k 05 Phantom Silver 7k 04 Phantom Silver 12k others 08 Maybach 57 S Black/Black 200 Miles 03 Aston Martin Vanquish Silver/Black 6k 06 Mercedes SLR RennTech 725HP Black/Red 4k 07 Maserati QP Automatic White/Tan 1k 07 Mercedes S600 Carlson Black/Black 3k 08 Mercedes CL63 Black/Black 11k 08 Porsche 911 Turbo Tech Art GT Street 08 Porsche 911 GT3 RS Green/Black 08 Porsche 911 GT2 Black/Black 97 Porsche 911 Turbo Silver/Black

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LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM

1998 Ferrari 355 Spider. Yellow with black interior. Here’s one of the best-maintained Spiders we have seen in quite a while. The owner was meticulous about taking care of every scheduled service plus anything else that came up. It had a full major service recently that included timing belts and much more. We have just completed a top operation tune-up, an annual service and mounted new tires all around. It has a spotless CarFax history, near-perfect paint, top & leather and is nicely accented with 360 wheels. Call Ferrari of Denver at 303-730-7340. www.ferrariofdenver.com

2008 Lotus Elise SC. Ardent Red with Black interior. Touring. Hardtop, Starshield, & TC, supercharged 220hp. Call Ferrari of Denver at 303-730-7340. www.ferrariofdenver.com

2008 Maserati Quattroporte GT. New 08 year end special $131,170. Call Ferrari of Denver at 303-730-7340.

www.ferrariofdenver.com

2003 Bentley Azure Mulliner Edition. A low mileage 2003 Azure that we sold new right here in rust-free salt-free flood-free, mudslide and tornado-free Colorado . Garaged day and night, well cared for, properly maintained (by the book). Rare Mulliner, looks more like the new ones than the odd looking wide-flares of the Final Series. Stunning in formal black, great contrasting interior colors. Call Ferrari of Denver at 303-730-7340. www.ferrariofdenver.com 30

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Ferrari of Denver Colorado’s ONLY Factory Authorized New car dealership for Ferrari, Maserati, Bentley and Lotus automobiles.

2008 Bentley Flying Spur

2000 Plymouth Prowler

2002 Ferrari 360 Modena F1

2008 Bentley GTC

2006 Aston Martin D89 Convertible

1976 Triumph Spitfire 1500

2000 Ferrari 360 Modena F1

1480 E. County Line Road • Highlands Ranch, CO 80126

Phone: 303-730-7340 • Fax: 303-797-8874 • www.ferrariofdenver.com luxuryautodirect.com

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LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM

2002 Ferrari 360 Spider. Factory options include: Scuderia shields; HiFi stereo system with subwoofer; 6 disc CD changer; Daytona seats with black inserts; Electrically operated seats. This car has also been fitted with a Tubi exhaust system, as well as a set of BBS challenge style wheels. Contact Sean at Steve Harris Imports 801-521-0340. www.ferrarisales.com

2008 Audi R8. Factory options include: Suzuka Gray exterior; Audi Premium Package; Audi navigation system plus; Leather package; Bang & Olufsen sound system. Additional options include: Quattro GmbH (Audi’s equivalent to Mercedes’ AMG or BMW’s M division.); Carbon fiber side blades; Euro tail lights & Euro rear fog light; Clear Bra; and tinted windows. Contact Sean at Steve Harris Imports 801-521-0340. www.ferrarisales.com

2006 Porsche Carrera S. very unique Cobalt Blue Carrera S with two tone gray and black interior. Well optioned with Heated and Power Seats, Navigation, Bose high end sound package, Navigation, as well as Sport Shifter. A single owner car just traded for a Ferrari. Complete with all the original keys, documentation, and window sticker. $69,900. Contact Sean at Steve Harris Imports 801-521-0340. www.ferrarisales.com

2001 Ferrari 550 Maranello. Burgundy with natural interior. Factory options include: 18 inch modular wheels; Daytona style seats; Electrically operated seats; Leather upholstered rear shelf. $124,900. Contact Sean at Steve Harris Imports 801-521-0340. www.ferrarisales.com

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LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM

2004 Ferrari 360 F1. Red with black interior. Factory options include: F1 transmission; Red brake calipers; Scuderia shields; Challenge grille; 6 disc CD changer. $159,900. Contact Sean at Steve Harris Imports 801-521-0340. www.ferrarisales.com

1994 Ferrari 348 Spider. Clean 348 Spider in black on black. This car has undergone a major service and is ready to be enjoyed by you! Contact Sean at Steve Harris Imports 801-521-0340. www.ferrarisales.com

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LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM

2007 Murcielago LP640 Coupe in Giallo Evros (Fly Yellow) over Dual Colour Nero Perseus-Giallo (Black-Yellow) Italian leather. This Lamborghini has been pampered for only 3,469 miles. Lamborghini Houston 866-289-7497. www.lamborghinihouston.com

2008 Lamborghini Gallardo Coupe in BIANCO MONOCERUS (Pure White) paint over AVORIO LILIUM/NERO PERSEUS Italian Leather. Its loaded with all the right options. Lamborghini Houston 866-2897497.com www.lamborghinihouston.com

2008 Lamborghini Gallardo Coupe. ARANCIO BOREALIS paint over NERO PERSEUS/AVORIO LILIUMÂ Italian Leathe, 318 miles! Loaded E-gear transmission, Coming Home Function, Transparent Engine Bonnet, Silver Callisto Rims, Branding Package, Travel Package, Fully Electric and Heated Seats, Lifting System, Rear View Camera, Anti Theft System. $223, 405 Lamborghini Houston 866-2897497 sales@lamborghinihouston.com. www.lamborghinihouston.com

Grey Barra Hue and Reventon Alcantara interior with only 52 miles. It is the most powerful Lamborghini ever built! Only 20 will be made the Reventon has style and vitality like no other car in the world. With its twisting design the Reventon has a seamlessly elegant movement. The carbon fiber material and the forward-facing air intakes allows for the 650 horsepower car stability, power and precision even at 211mph. Inquire for Price. Lamborghini Houston 866-289-7497 or www.lamborghinihouston.com. www.lamborghinihouston.com 34



LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM

2004 Ferrari Challenge Stradale in Tour de France Blue (TDF) over Tan Smooth Leather with Alcantara Dash and Door Moldings. Only 7,945 miles. Sold new on October 24th, 2003 through Ferrari of San Francisco in CA. Includes 2 keys with remotes, owner’s manuals and books, tools, air canister, and service records. Motorcars International 866-2896740. sales@motorcars-intl.com www.motorcars-intl.com

2007 Ferrari F430 F1 Coupe in Rosso Corsa Red/ Tan Full Leather. Includes the additional Power Extended Warranty. 1-Owner, 2,334 miles. F1 Transmission, Scuderia Ferrari Shields on the fenders, Ball Polished Challenge Wheel Rims, Carbon Fiber Rear Center Segment, Power Operated Seats, Daytona Style Seats, Black Stitching, Leather Upholstered Headliner, High Power HiFi Sound with Subwoofer. $219,500 Motorcars International 866-289-6740 sales@motorcars-intl.com www.motorcars-intl.com

1988 1/2 Lamborghini Countach in White over Black Leather! Just 4,835 miles! (Converted from odometer reading of 7,786 km’s.) Engine Out Service currently being performed. This Countach has a Euro front bumper and rear wing. Later ‘88 model with side skirts and updated air conditioning control unit. Includes tool kit, spare tire, books, etc. Fully inspected in-house both mechanically and cosmetically. $124,500 Motorcars International 866-289-6740 .sales@motorcars-intl.com www.motorcars-intl.com

Rare 2006 Ford GT - 2.7 Delivery Miles in Black/Silver Stripes/Ebony leather. All 4 Options. Car cover and bag never out of the plastic, owner’s manuals and pouch still wrapped in plastic with alll contnets. Delivery stickers are still on windshield and the interior still has the protective plastic tape and plastic wrap. You won’t find a lower mile or more original Ford GT. Fully inspected in-house both mechanically and cosmetically. $204,500. Motorcars International 866-289-6740 .sales@motorcars-intl.com www.motorcars-intl.com 36



LUXURY AUTO SHOWROOM

2008 Lamborghini Reventon. 37 miles, 1 of 20 Reventons produced, street legal, Price: upon request. Contact Rayda Sinni, Phone: 705-321- 7398 or Email: Rayda@thecarexperience.com www.thecarexperience.com

1992 Ferrari F40. 7,362 miles, Full history, service up to date, never tracked, Price: upon request. Contact Rayda Sinni, Phone: 705-321- 7398 or Email: Rayda@thecarexperience.com www.thecarexperience.com

2007 Maserati MC12 Corsa.Delivery miles, Track-Only MC12 Corsa Based on the Championship-Winning Car, Price: upon request. Contact Rayda Sinni, Phone: 705-321- 7398 or Email: Rayda@thecarexperience.com www.thecarexperience.com

2003 Ferrari FXX. 186 miles, New, never tracked, immediate availability, Price: upon request. Contact Rayda Sinni, Phone: 705-3217398 or Email: Rayda@ thecarexperience.com www.thecarexperience.com

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“It’s more than a game.” “If you don’t know. Get with a Pro.” - Na’il Diggs DNA Transport represents a new class of enclosed auto transport. Owned and operated by NFL Linebacker Na’il Diggs, DNA is better described as an Exotic, Luxury, and Collectible car transport company. Our white glove, door-to-door, service uses only 2-car enclosed transporters which allows us to give special attention to our clients as opposed to cramming your prized possession into a transporter with 6-8 other cars. This allows us to get your vehicle to it’s destination Faster and most of all, Safer.

1.877.dna.0007 www.dnatransport.com 2145 South 11th Avenue, Building 3 Suite 120, Phoenix, AZ, 85007


custom

REDEFINING

“Custom” Wheels

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cor wheels

ll too often in the English language we find words that have slowly evolved and had their meanings expanded to the point that they lose the original spirit or intent of their meaning. This can be seen even more acutely in the context of specific industries, and nowhere have we seen this more noticeably than in the perversion of the word “Custom” in the aftermarket wheel business. It is a refreshing opportunity to delve into the inner workings of a company that hasn’t lost the spirit of what “Custom” is all about. COR Forged wheels has sought to resurrect the spirit of the famed coachbuilders from the early 20th century, when attention to detail, a perfect fitment and, of course, a direct translation of the client’s wishes into reality were the norm. At COR, each and every order is handled with individual attention. There is no prepackaged inventory to satisfy the “now” generation, but rather every order is made to the exacting demands of the intended application. The rewards for this approach come in spades, with the client being able to specify every minute detail of their wheel. Unlike other manufacturers, COR does not limit their clients to simply luxuryautodirect.com

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the finish of the wheel’s center. Their clients are encouraged to stipulate many of the elements that truly individualize their acquisition—the outer lips, inner barrel, even the assembly hardware and valve stem can be custom finished. But the beauty of “Custom” as COR defines it, goes far beyond the superficial finishes. It represents the ability to manufacture custom widths and offsets for specific vehicles, rather than using the generic, averaged sizes that fit a group of vehicles or the spacers and adapters that more mass-market brands resort to. At COR the pace of production might be hurried—average lead time for a fully custom manufactured wheel is guaranteed to be less than 1 month—but the attention to detail is unparalleled. How do they do it? The strength of the COR system is their use of a modular rim building system. You see, for all the infinite designs and sizes of wheels that can be made, there are some constants. Chief among these is the fact that all wheels

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Their clients are encouraged to stipulate many of the elements that truly individualize their acquisition—the outer lips, inner barrel, even the assembly hardware and valve stem can be custom finished.

must conform a standard tires’ mounting bead. This means that the diameter and, by function of available tires, the widths all fall within preset guidelines. In an unprecedented manner, COR’s designers transformed this limitation into an advantage and by maintaining a large inventory of every possible ½” step within these guidelines, COR is able to keep 2/3 of the wheel ready to build at a moment’s notice. Individual custom orders are simply

processed and sent electronically to the production floor where CNC lathes and milling machines take over producing the exact design and particular vehicle fitment that the client ordered. Once this critical step is accomplished, all components are forwarded to the final finishing station, where they will be systematically assembled and inspected to ensure a safe, trouble free product that the client can be proud to own.

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concept

hardcore four-door

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Lamborghini Estoque

the Italian super sports sedan Cutting through Stereotypes

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Lamborghini unlike any other that has come before it: a four-door sports car. While a sedan is unexpected for the marque, the Lamborghini Estoque concept has everything that defines a Lamborghini. It is extreme, uncompromising and unmistakably Italian and brings a whole new versatility to the brand’s DNA. The Estoque’s four seats and ample luggage space is a perfect fit for an equally versatile lifestyle. Estoque is a study, a concept created specifically for the 2008 Salon d’Automobiles in Paris. From first glance, there is no doubt that this is a Lamborghini. Like its siblings, it possesses a compelling presence, both unique and unmistakable. The long wheelbase, the low profile, the broad track, the mighty, accentuated wheels, the clean surfaces and razor-sharp definition – every single line breathes the spirit of the Lamborghini brand. Of course, as a true Lamborghini, it goes without saying that the Estoque also bears a suitably powerful name with a rich heritage from the Spanish Corrida or bull fighting. The Estoque is a rapier (sword), approximately 90 centimeters long, used in a bullfight by the Matador. The Estoque is an entirely new interpretation of the Sant’ Agata design ethic, and, as any successful concept car should, it provides a clear view of one possible

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Lamborghini Estoque future. The Estoque is the first sedan in the history of Automobili Lamborghini. While “sedan” is more a reference to the number of doors than any other characteristics, even sports sedan is an inadequate classification. The Estoque establishes a new category for itself; it is a super sports sedan with a powerful front mid-engine, permanent all-wheel drive and a sophisticated, precision-tuned chassis. The flat bonnet, the long wheelbase, the narrow window openings, the flat rear that ends decisively with a negative return – it is pure Italy on wheels; everything bears the design language of the large classic Italian four-door cars, albeit with a unique, modern interpretation. Pure Lamborghini. Just like the brand’s super sports cars, the Estoque features a mid-engine layout. However, the high-performance driveline used here is not located in front of the rear axle, as in the Gallardo and Murcielago or in the Reventon, but behind the front axle. This front mid-engine concept, with the driveline set way back, facilitates balanced weight distribution and a center of gravity close to the vehicle’s vertical axis. Both ensure unparalleled agility and handling precision of a mid-engine vehicle. A range of drivelines is conceivable for the Estoque. This is

headed up by the highly-acclaimed Lamborghini ten-cylinder from the Gallardo LP 560-4 – with more torque and higher revving than virtually any other engine. A complementary alternative could be a turbocharged eight-cylinder derived from this V10. A particularly economical, but nevertheless dynamic, variation would be a V8 with a hybrid module or an extremely high-performance TDI. Like all contemporary Lamborghini models, the Estoque is also equipped with permanent all-wheel drive. It distributes the engine power to all four wheels for superior traction in all driving situations, as well as providing extra reserves for both extremely sporty driving and also for challenging weather conditions. The front end of the Estoque is a clear and unambiguous statement of its sports car credentials. With its swooping V-shape, its two large air intakes pulled forward and the small front spoiler in between, its place amongst the family of Lamborghini super sports cars is also distinct and unmistakable. This front-end design gives the Estoque a firm, low stance, while providing excellent aerodynamic efficiency. The large air intakes facilitate the cooling air that is important for such a high-performance vehicle and the spoiler was specifically designed to improve aerodynamic balance at high speeds.

The Estoque is an entirely new interpretation of the Sant’ Agata design ethic, and, as any successful concept car should, it provides a clear view of one possible future.

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concept

Its proportions guarantee the Lamborghini Estoque an impressive appearance. The skilled sectioning along the flanks of the vehicle gives the body shell an incredibly muscular form. Beneath the flat surfaces of the bonnet, the incredibly powerful shoulder line, a further side line rising slightly towards the rear and, finally, the equally distinct sill line all add emphasis to the flow of power from the engine to the magnificent 23-inch rear wheels. The masculine profile is completed by the negative return of the rear end. This adds further tension to the form of the Estoque – the whole car looks coiled and ready to pounce at the drop of a hat. These sharp lines frame a fascinating interplay of surfaces across convex and concave curvatures. The Estoque clearly displays the design language of the Centro Stile Lamborghini with a distinctive elegance. Despite its extremely low profile – at a mere 4.43 feet high – the Lamborghini Estoque is surprisingly spacious. The secret

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lies in its very long wheelbase that, in spite of the rearwards positioning of the front mid-engine, enables a relaxed, sporty seating position. Entering and exiting is also pleasingly straightforward through the large, wide-opening doors. For this reason, the Lamborghini Estoque is the perfect traveling companion, be it en route to business meetings, the theatre, the golf course or even a weekend away with the kids. At the end of the day, it is the only car that allows one to share the singular driving pleasure of a Lamborghini with more than one person – possibly even with the whole family. And there is still enough room left over for weekend luggage or several golf bags. At the same, the Estoque is a thoroughbred sports car with exceptionally refined power delivery, razor-sharp precision handling and a meaty engine tone. Challenging driving pleasure on a winding mountain road, followed by a relaxed, enjoyable journey along miles and miles of motorway. As expected, the Estoque is commanding across the entire driving spectrum, at the highest level. And it is this unique versatility that makes it the perfect addition to the range of Lamborghini super sports cars. In Paris, the Lamborghini Estoque demonstrates the innovation, the creativity and the design flair of the Lamborghini brand, currently represented by the enormous success enjoyed by Lamborghini’s Gallardo and Murcielago super sports cars. As a concept, the Lamborghini Estoque represents one of several possibilities for a third model series within the Lamborghini product line-up. At this point in time, no decisions have been taken in respect of either a third model series of any kind or of the Estoque concept in particular.


EXERCISE IN EXACTLY 4 MINUTES PER DAY Winner of the Popular Science Award for the “Best of What’s New” in Leisure Products

$14 ,615

ROM

MANUFACTURED IN CALIFORNIA SINCE 1990

TIME IS IT. Over 92% of people who own exercise helps to balance blood sugar, and improves bad backs and equipment and 88% of people who own health club shoulders. Too good to be true? Get our free video and see for memberships do not exercise. A 4 minute complete workout is no longer hard to believe for all the people who since 1990 yourself. The best proof for us is that 97% of rentals become sales. Please visit our website at: www.FastExercise.com. have bought our excellent Range of Motion machine (ROM). Over 97% of people who rent our ROM for 30 days wind up The typical ROM purchaser goes through several stages: purchasing it based upon the health benefits experienced during 1. Total disbelief that the ROM can do all this in only 4 minutes. that tryout, and the ROM 2. Rhetorical (and sometimes hostile) questioning and ridicule. 3. Reading the ROM literature and reluctantly understanding it. performance score at the end of 4. Taking a leap of faith and renting a ROM for 30 days. each 4 minute workout that tells 5. Being highly impressed by the results and purchasing a ROM. the story of health and fitness 6. Becoming a ROM enthusiast and trying to persuade friends. improvement. 7. Being ignored and ridiculed by the friends who think you’ve lost your mind. If you value your time at more 8. After a year of using the ROM your friends admiring your good shape. than $5 an hour, the ROM machine 9. You telling them (again) that you only exercise those 4 minutes per day. is the least expensive method of 10. Those friends reluctantly renting the ROM for a 30 day trial. exercise for you. Then the above cycle repeats from point 5 on down. The ROM 4 minute workout is for people from 10 to over 100 years The more we tell people about the ROM the less they believe it. old and highly trained athletes From 4 minutes on the ROM you get the same results as from 20 to 45 as well. The ROM adapts its minutes aerobic exercise (jogging, running, etc.) for cardio and resistance every second during respiratory benefits, plus 45 minutes weight training for muscle tone and the workout to exactly match the strength, plus 20 minutes stretching exercise for limberness/flexibility. user’s ability to perform work. It

Order a FREE DVD from www.FastExercise.com or call (818) 504-6450 Factory Showroom: ROMFAB, 8137 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91605 Fax: (818) 301-0319 • Email: sales@FastExercise.com

RENT A ROM FOR 30 DAYS. RENTAL APPLIES TO PURCHASE.


auto event

Exotic Car Show and Auction To broadcast live on Internet

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he Palm Springs Exotic Car Auction will broadcast live for the first time when Keith and Jason McCormick open the popular car show and auction on Nov. 21. The 45th Collector Car Show and Auction will be held at the Spa Resort Casino in downtown Palm Springs, CA where nearly 600 collectable cars and trucks will on display during the three-day auction. The show opens Friday, Nov. 21 from 4 to 9 p.m. and continues Saturday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The entire event will stream live via computer for three days and people who register in advance may bid on cars by phone, McCormick said. Three cameras will be set up to show different views of each car as it passes through the auction tent. A special bank of phones will be set up to receive telephone bids. To connect to the live broadcast and receive registration information, go to www.classic-caraution.com People bidding by telephone will have to register in advance and follow the same procedures as people attending the auction, McCormick noted. Bidding requires a $30 registration fee and a “good faith deposit,” which is refunded if nothing is purchased, McCormick said. “This prevents a person consuming a six-pack from buying a Rolls

Royce and not knowing what he has done,” McCormick said. The auction, which normally brings up to 20,000 visitors to Palm Springs, may add another 50,000 to the online auction site while streaming on the World Wide Web, McCormick said. Other major exotic car auctions had claimed 1.5 million visitors world wide to the website broadcasts. Keith and Jason McCormick, father and son, work with other family members to create the car show and auction. “Palm Springs, which has always been home for many exotic cars, is the perfect setting for the event,” said Keith, who has produced the auction for the past 22 years. About 80 cars will pass through the auction tent on Friday night and the remainder on Saturday and Sunday. Cars range from sports and muscle cars to antiques and exotics, “something for everyone,” McCormick said. Auction prices typically range from under $2,000 to more than $200,000. For a photo preview of the cars, go to www.classic-carauctions. com The website explains entry fees, rules and other details.

Ready for Keith McCormick’s Palm Springs Exotic Car Auction are a red 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 replica with 2,200 miles and a fully restored 1970 Plymouth Cuda with 65,000 miles.

Photo by Bill Marchese, Dezart Media

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Gear & gadgets The Bentley Collection by Dunhill Bentley and Dunhill, the English leather goods maker, have collaborated to design a five-piece luggage set. The set is made to fit perfectly into the truck of any Bentley. Its fine leather is made to reflect the fluted leather designs of Bentley seats and can be ordered to match any color

interior. The set consists of a large and small suitcase, a briefcase, a weekend bag and wash bag and is available from Bentley dealerships. Suggested Retail price: $7,600.00. www.bentleymotors.com

Bentley Safe by Stockinger Bentley and Stockinger have collaborated to create two impenetrable safes, the Continental and the Arnage. The Continental is designed to store jewelry and the Arnage is designed to store watches and features watch winders. Only 200 of each model will be made and are available in all standard Bentley exterior and interior colors and materials. Prices start at $168,000.00 www.stockinger.com

Ferrari Gas Cap Paperweight An authentic Ferrari gas cap is set atop a 6� by 6� piece of carbon fiber, clear coated for a shiny finish, adding a high tech look to any desktop. The underside of the carbon fiber is made of leather or suede in smooth orange grain, plain carbon, red suede and black suede. And, the gas cap is New Old Stock so was never used. Suggested Retail price: $325.00 www.racechairs.com 52

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Vertu Signature S Design Vertu, the ultra-luxury cell phone designer has released another masterpiece to add to its collection. The new Signature S Design will feature 3G and Quadband GSM coverage worldwide, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. It will also be one of the first phones ever to feature an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display. The V-shaped keypad contains 4.75 carats of solid ruby bearings each cut and set in its exact place. And, all the ringtones featured on the Signature S are composed exclusively for Vertu. The Vertu Signature will be available in white gold, yellow gold and stainless steel. Price TBA. www.vertu.com

Bugatti Faubourg Type 370 Watch by Parmigiani This limited edition Bugatti Type 370 watch from Parmigiani is a timepiece made for all racers at heart. The odd angle of its dial makes it so the driver can keep their eyes on the road when driving. The watch features Hermès calfskin straps and six sapphire crystals to enable viewing of its mechanical body. Only fifty timepieces will be made per year per color of dial. Suggested Retail price: $233,900.00. www.parmigiani.ch

Porsche Design P’9120 Table Top Radio Porsche Design and Etón Corporation have come together to present a radio design that definitely stands out from the crowd. The P’9120 desk radio comes with three 1.5 inch speakers, an active subwoofer and doublewall structure, ensuring top music quality. The radio comes in a solid aluminum casing and offers AM, FM and XM radio access. Various iPod models can also be hooked up to the cradle and system includes a remote. Suggested Retail price:$800.00. www.porschedesign.com

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memorabilia 1/12 scale Shelby Cobra 427S/C

1991 McLaren World Championship Rheos helmet Replica

Diecast model. All opening parts, 15” long, fantastic detail. $595

Full scale replica of Ayrton Senna’s 1991 McLaren World Championship Rheos helmet. Edition of 50, with carbon fiber base and certificate. $2895

official team pitcrew shirts Ferrari Marlboro Tommy Hilfiger official team pitcrew shirts. Available in S or M. $295

“Aintree, 1961” by Alfredo de la Maria An original giclee on canvas showing Wolfgang Von Trips in the Ferrari 156 F1 “Shark Nose” en route to winning the British GP. You can see him leading Graham Hill in the BRM & Surtees in the Cooper. One of 100 limited editions (40x29”). $2,575

Items provided by www.thememorabiliaexperience.com 54

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new

Grand finale

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Bentley Arnage Final Series

THE PERFECT MODEL TO BID ‘FAREWELL’ TO ARNAGE

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ince its debut in 1998 the Arnage has conveyed an air of sophisticated understatement as the four-door flagship of the Bentley range. Over the last decade the car has undergone a process of constant refinement to its body, design, chassis and powertrain to maintain its class-leading position in the premium luxury market. To celebrate 10 years of the Arnage and 50 years of its mighty V8 engine, Bentley Motors will launch its limited edition model, the Bentley Arnage Final Series, at the Paris Motor Show. Hand crafted at Bentley’s Crewe facility, the Final Series is an exclusive run of 150 cars, a unique example of the marque’s flagship created to bid ‘farewell’ to the highly successful Arnage line in the most appropriate manner and style. The new model features a unique specification, combining the performance of the 500bhp Arnage T with the refinement of the Arnage R along with design elements from the Brooklands coupe. The Arnage Final Series is the ultimate expression of British luxury and effortless power in a four-door saloon – a grand

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finale, for the grandest of Bentleys. Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, explains: “For 10 years, Arnage has enjoyed extraordinary success at the pinnacle of the luxury saloon market. The Final Series is a celebration of the Arnage era as Bentley prepares for the next generation of its flagship model.” For the last ten years the Arnage’s combination of muscular lines and effortless luxury have endowed it with a commanding road presence synonymous with all Bentley Grand Tourers. This powerful exterior profile is underpinned by a torsionally stiff bodyshell that helps to deliver outstanding ride and refinement. Based on the sporting Arnage T, the Final Series offers a range of discreet exterior cues that further enhance its powerful stance. Key ingredients of the distinctive appearance include a dark-tinted Bentley matrix radiator grille with Flying ‘B’ mascot and dark-tinted lower grille. The iconic Flying ‘B’, which can retract neatly into the grille surround, was originally designed by motoring artist F. Gordon Crosby and was first used on the 1930 Bentley


Bentley Arnage Final Series 8-Liter. The Arnage Final Series is further distinguished by exterior design features first seen on the exclusive Bentley Brooklands coupe, comprising 20-inch five-spoke, two-piece alloy wheels and ‘Le Mans’ lower front wing air vents. Additional unique features include body-colored front and rear lamp bezels, ‘jewel’ fuel filler cap together with ‘Final Series’ wing badges and polished stainless steel tread plates to the front doors. The Arnage Final Series will have a very special appeal to Bentley customers, as Peter Guest, Head of Department, Body & Trim, explains: “Thanks to its hand-built exclusivity and superb quality, Arnage has become a world-wide benchmark for automotive craftsmanship. The Final Series epitomizes the truly bespoke feel we aspire to and are determined to maintain.” Inside, the Final Series is everything you would expect of a bespoke Bentley, offering the highest levels of hand-craftsmanship to a small, but discerning audience. Bentley is the only automobile manufacturer in the world to offer as standard a cabin trimmed entirely with leather hides – including the headlining. The handcrafted steering wheel requires up to 16 hours of double stitching. Arnage Final Series spans the many eras between traditional coachbuilding skills and 21st century highperformance automotive engineering. As in every Bentley, peerless craftsmanship and bespoke finishing are to the fore. Every item of trim—be it veneer, hide or chromed bezel—uses authentic materials. Built by hand, the creation of each Arnage takes a minimum of six weeks. The engine, transmission, chassis and running gear of the Arnage Final Series are identical to those previously employed in Arnage T. In this specification, Bentley’s remarkable all-aluminum 6 liter V8 engine produces 500bhp and 738lbft of torque – figures that ensure that the legendary Bentley ‘wave of torque’ delivers effortless performance for a unique driving experience. Acceleration to 60mph is accomplished in 5.2 seconds with

For 10 years, Arnage has enjoyed extraordinary success at the pinnacle of the luxury saloon market. The Final Series is a celebration of the Arnage era as Bentley prepares for the next generation of its flagship model. luxuryautodirect.com

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100mph reached in 12.1 seconds. Top speed of the Final Series is 179mph. The six-speed ZF automatic transmission, first introduced for the 2007 model, ensures optimum flexibility, response and refinement. Three transmission modes (Drive, Sport and Semi-Automatic) allow the driver to take full advantage of the powerful 500bhp V8 engine. Significantly upgraded in 2007, the Arnage’s fully independent double wishbone front and rear suspension features coil springs with computer-controlled, adaptive electro-hydraulic dampers and automatic ride-height control with auto-load compensation. These endow the Arnage with impressive body control in all driving conditions. The fitment of Bentley’s legendary V8 engine in the Final Series in its most powerful Arnage form is an ideal way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this renowned powertrain. Drawing on the wealth of aircraft engine experience gained at Crewe – manufacturing thousands of Merlin engines to power such famous British WW2 planes as the Hurricane, Spitfire, Mosquito and Lancaster – the first Bentley V8 engine was designed and built in 1959. The fact that Bentley’s V8 design has served the marque remarkably well for five decades should not come as a surprise, as Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering, comments, “The original forward-thinking design of the all-aluminum Bentley V8 was a masterpiece and so good that we have been able to improve it continuously for nearly 50 years.” Today’s engine produces around two and a half times the power of its 1959 predecessor, fuel consumption is only 60 percent of the original and emissions are an incredible 99 percent lower.” In 1959 the power and torque of that first 6.23-liter 90-degree

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V8 engine in the Bentley S2 saloon was officially described as “adequate.” Actual output was around 200bhp with 295 lb/ft of torque. Today, the Final Series 6 V8 produces 500bhp and 1000 Nm with over 90 percent of that torque available between 1,800 and 3,800 rev/min. One of the reasons Bentley’s V8 engine has evolved so successfully is the position of the exhaust valves, high in the cylinder head with short ports, originally designed for rapid heat dissipation to help engine cooling. Decades later this meant that the catalytic converters could be quickly heated thanks to the short path from valves to catalysts, which benefits exhaust emissions. Commenting on the final chapter of the Arnage story, Stuart McCullough, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing, says: “The Final Series is the perfect model to give our Arnage flagship a splendid send off. Handcrafted at Crewe, this exclusive run of 150 cars represents the ultimate expression of Bentley luxury and effortless power.”

quick specs price na engine 6.75 liter V8 Aspiration twin turbochargers weight 5699 lbs Transmission 6 Speed auto horsepower 500 hp production 150 0-60 5.2 top speed 179 mph


www.bagginskennel.com

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events

A Celebration of

Italian Style

Photos by David Gooley

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concorso italiano

his year was the beginning of a wonderful new era for Concorso Italiano—one of the Monterey Weekend’s most beloved events. The event, which celebrates Italian engineering and design, moved from the Bayonet Black Horse Golf Courses just ten miles north of Monterey to the Marina California Airport. The new setting along California’s beautiful coastline brought welcome breezes and much needed extra space to the event—and they needed it. This year, Concorso Italiano celebrated 45 years of Automobili Lamborghini, the 40th anniversary of the Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona, and the timeless creations of Marcello Gandini who drafted the famous lines for vehicles like Lamborghini’s Countach, Diablo, Espada, Jarama, and Miura as well as the Ferrari Dino 308GT4. Before the now locale at the airport was chosen, Concorso Italluxuryautodirect.com

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iano invited a special guest to come and review the scene. Mike Graham, Director at Large for the Ferrari Club of America Pacific Region, measured the site for its potential. The position was finalized because it gave the event a location in which they had plenty of space to creatively display the vehicles in a manner that would complement both their heritage and design. The airport also afforded the room necessary for on-site parking and specialized areas. Now, in addition to having ample space in which to displace the finest Italian marques, on-site parking, and premium places in which to hold some of the event’s most anticipated spectacles like the fashion show, the live music, and the on-stage commentary with both car owners and celebrities, Concorso Italiano begins an entirely new chapter in its long history. An event coordinator explained, “This site will give us tremendous opportunity to expand and to introduce new and exciting features.� And they have definitely expanded. One of the aspects, which

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concorso italiano make Concorso Italiano unique to the other events being held on the Monterey Peninsula that week, is the variety. Some may believe showing vehicles from one country hampers the event’s selection, but many do not realize that they do not just display vehicles. In previous years, Concorso Italiano has welcomed vintage racers, prestigious show cars, and even cycles and Riva yachts, but this year they made the most significant addition: aircraft. For the first time, attendees enjoyed Italian aircraft, from vintage to contemporary. It was a day of celebration for Italian ingenuity on land, by sea, and in the air. The displays were beautifully done, with each car enhancing the next. In addition, Concorso Italiano added professional catering with a Gold Class Luncheon—like so many of the other events held during the week—and shaded seating areas with views of both the beautiful vehicle displays and the mountain backdrop of the Coastal Range. Jim Heady, President of the Lamborghini Club America, was there to celebrate Lamborghini’s 45th anniversary and explained,

“The new site gives us more open space and the ability to bring in our exotics more efficiently, which allows us more time to enjoy all of the aspects of what Concorso Italiano has become.”

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“When you turn your car on, does it return the favor?” Coach Builders Ltd. answers that question - “Now it does!” The Cadillac CTS convertible brings back the good old days with modern automotive technology in a spacious four door convertible that keeps its sporty character. The conversion is a full open convertible without a roll bar. The cloth, power top comes in a variety of colors including tan, gray, blue, brown and black. The roof is padded for sound and temperature insulation. There is a full headliner, heated glass rear window, and complete reinforcement to the chassis as well as a huge trunk and original rear seat. This is Cadillac’s most popular car ever and now it is available as a convertible. CBL has cars available or can convert one for you. The conversion is $19,000.00 and takes about 5 weeks with payment at completion. Call Larry Moran at 386-984-6088 for current inventory. CBL also builds the Chrysler 300 and Cadillac DTS if that is where your taste runs.

Coach Builders Ltd. has been in business for 32 years and ships cars all over the world. If you like to be noticed and enjoy that great outdoor feeling, this is how you do it. What are you waiting for?


modified Aston martin

flawless

beauties

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Hamann Aston Martin V8 Vantage

HAMANN’s refinments for ASTON MARTIN V8 Vantage and Vantage Roadster

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o doubt – Hamann knows how to enhance the already refined luxury of a fine vehicle; they’ve been improving on perfection for years. Yet, with their new tuning program for the popular Aston Martin V8 Vantage, the Laupheim-based company not only reaffirms its supremacy as a manufacturer of sporting accessories and thrilling body design but also gives the iconic Aston Martin a package befitting its homeland’s greatest hero: 007. The bow of the Aston Martin can be optionally equipped with a spoiler lip for the original front or enhanced with an entire front skirt. Between the front and rear side, the striking Hamann side skirt attachments render an integrated design and give the Vantage a lowered and stretched look. Even when motionless, the upgraded beauty gives the impression that it’s ready for action. In order to reduce the lifting forces at the back axle and glue the beast to the road, Hamann technicians developed a shapely spoiler for the rear, which can be fitted on the rear lid. It can also be further enhanced with a matching three-part rear diffuser. The latter optically extends the side skirts downwards and skillfully enhances the two end pipes of the Hamann sport exhaust system. As ever, Hamann perfectly coordinates the individual components of the aerodynamics kit. The result is impressive styling with an optimized airflow over the vehicle’s frame that provides an additional output for increased speed and maneuverability. One of the technical highlights in the tuning program is the

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modified Aston martin

new three-part Hamann light alloy wheel dubbed the Edition Race series. In the 007 tradition, the forged wheel combines both sportiness as well as elegance. The black-varnished rim star and the titanium bolting emphasize the dynamism of the wheel; the highly polished rim flange on the other hand renders a noble appearance. An Edition Race wheel, like James Bond, exudes the powerful beauty of dichotomy. Hamann offers the wheel/tire combination measuring 9” x 21” inches with 245/30ZR21 tires at the front and 10.5” x 21” rims with tires measuring 295/25ZR21 at the back. The new aluminum wheels are accentuated with special chassis springs, which lower the center of gravity of the V8 Vantage by 30mm at the front axle and by 20mm at the rear axle. At the same time, this enhances the handling of this sports car. The Hamann exhaust components are a successful symbiosis of sound and performance made especially for the V8 Vantage. The Swabian engineers developed sport catalysers and sport end mufflers. The components made of stainless steel render an impressive sound setting and emphasize the sportive value of the Hamann’s makeover. At the same time they breathe an additional 20hp into the British noble car enhancing its agility. Produced in the traditional style of Aston Martin, which is reflected by comfort, luxury and sportiness in the interior, Hamann Motorsport offers discreet yet sophisticated interior applications. A noble aluminum pedal set including a footrest, a car mat set made of threaded pearl velours set sportive trends, and other suddle touches fill the cockpit. If desired, customers can also opt for handmade complete leather equipment that meets the exclusive demands of Aston Martin drivers—or perhaps those who aspire to live the James Bond lifestyle.

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Newport Beach Concours d’Elegance

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lthough the day was shrouded in a light fog, it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm or beauty of the 26th annual Newport Beach Concours d’Elegance. This year the event took place on Sunday, September 28th in a new prestigious location, the five-star St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort, located on Dana Point’s coastline. The new setting was a huge step forward for the organization in providing a high-caliber, world-class venue. Not only did the new locale make for a successful event, but the quality of the classic automobiles on exhibit continue to increase in stature from year to year. With over 160 automobiles on display and 3,500 attending, this year’s Newport Beach Concours d’Elegance was unprecedented. The judging of the automobile classes was very difficult this year as all the entrants were of such a high quality. Some of the local class winners were as follows: Class 1A- Antique Cars to 1911 was won by Dana Point’s own Barry Hon with a 1904 De Dion Bouton, Class 7CCadillac Postwar Closed was won by Rhonda Donaue-Malzo from Newport Beach, CA with a 1957 Cadillac Coupe de Ville and Class 9A-

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Sportscars Under 3 Litres was won by David Sydorick of Beverly Hills, CA with a 1953 Fiat 8V Supersonic. At the conclusion of the day, the award winning cars were paraded in front of the large crowd, taking “Best in Show” was a 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C-SS Sport Coupe owned by the Nethercutt Collection of Sylmar, CA. Other special awards included Dick Waitneight’s Classic Car Award, going to the automobile that best embodied the spirit of the American classics, won by Milon Viel from Balboa Island, CA and his 1933 Packard 1005 4door sedan. The Meguiar’s Finish Fantastique award was given to the car with the best finish, which was a 1937 Cord Phaeton owned by Family Classic Cars in San Juan Capistrano, CA. Finally, a 1963 Ford Galaxie 390 Race Car owned by Franklin Shirley of Los Angeles, CA was given the Briggs Cunningham award “the most exciting car in the show”. 76

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Newport Beach Concours d’Elegance In addition to the magnificent automobiles, a full weekend of Concours d’Elegance related events preceded the show, creating a reason for people to plan ahead and mark their calendars for next year. The long weekend began with a Newport Beach Tour d’Elegance on Friday, September 26th, which featured a number of the exhibitor’s pristine automobiles on a 50-mile tour down the Orange County coastline. On Saturday, September 27th, auto enthusiasts started the day with a Private Collection Tour and viewed some of the world’s most spectacular automobiles. Saturday evening closed with a “Roaring Good Time Gala” to officially kick-off the Concours. This 1920s’ themed event took place at Signature Flight Services on the tarmac at John Wayne Airport and included dining, music, dancing and a live auction, as well as 20s’ era automobiles and aircraft that were on display for viewing. Newport Beach Concours d’Elegance is a 501 (c)(3) notfor-profit organization that over the past 25 years has raised several million dollars in support of Hoag Hospital and the Assessment and Treatment Services Center (a service that provides counseling to troubled children as well as their families). Proceeds from this year’s Concours d’Elegance again benefited these two charities.

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Luxury Auto 07 class.

8/24/07

4:59 PM

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