Tom LaPointe's Exotic Car Lifestyle Notebook

New Porsche Boxster Spyder to shake off car's 'Chick Car' image

2009-12-04T10:29:00.003-05:00

The all-new Porsche Boxster Spyder is set to hit the market in February with a price tag starting about $60k US. With 320 horsepower and lowered suspension adding to its already impressive performance, the new model will likely appeal to a broader aficionado and performance crowd and shake some people’s perception of it as a ‘chick car’. Enjoy this video from duPont Registry, and let us know if you want to get an early spot on a list.

Spyker C8 Aileron a delight for all the senses

2009-11-24T13:40:00.011-05:00

Though not exactly a speed demon, the forthcoming 2011 Spyker C8 Aileron, is definitely poised to take its place as one of the most beautiful exotic cars ever produced. The company describes its buyers picking the Aileron as an ‘and’ car, rather than an ‘or’ car – meaning that they will have a Ferrari, Bentley, or Lamborghini AND the Aileron. While the others easily surpass the Aileron in performance, the Spyker is tops when it comes to design, beauty, craftsmanship, and exclusivity.

The latest Spyker model continues the airplane design motif, now with a focus on turbine jet engines, rather than the propeller queues on the smaller C8 Spyder and Laviolette coupe. It also continues its absolutely stunning interior, complete with diamond-tufted hides, aviation-style switchgear and exposed stainless steel shift linkage. It has 400 horsepower on tap from an Audi-sourced 4.2-liter V8 that drives the rear wheels through a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission.

I was able to drive a pre-production model thanks to Spyker of Tampa Bay and their Manager, Chris Warren. The ride and handling are definitely in the grand-touring category, which is exactly what Spyker is looking for. While my drive in the million-dollar prototype was only on city streets, the car seemed very responsive and absorbed bumps and pavement undulations with confidence. It’s not quite as responsive as a Ferrari 599 GTB, but more spry through the twisties than the much-heavier Bentley Continental GT.Pricing is likely $225k and up, and annual Aileron production could be in the 100 to 200 range, so the car will always have exclusivity. And the novelty of the stunning design will ensure it is the center of attention in any valet line. First deliveries are targeted for summer 2010, so call us now for help getting to the top of the list. (Photos © Tom LaPointe)

Video of Tom LaPointe automotive photography

2009-09-27T02:09:00.001-04:00

Jay Leno video with the new McLaren MP4-12C - he loves it!

2009-09-21T04:34:00.003-04:00

Check out this great video from my friends at duPont Registry of Jay Leno touring the McLaren facility and seeing how the new MP4-12C. From the racing side to how the carbon fiber tub is created for left- or right-hand drive.

Jay says he loves the car and gives us a walkaround tour of it, and hints clearly that he wants to have the first one। This car is going to be a superstar। Look for upcoming articles in which I detail different aspects of a product and brand that is sure to be a celebrity must-have. Read about Jay Leno and other celebrities and their cars.

Cash for Clunkers will likely help prop up exotic market?

2009-08-05T20:39:00.003-04:00

You may be wondering why I think the government’s Cash for Clunkers program (CARS) has an impact on exotic car shopping, purchase or ownership. After all, you’re probably not going to accept a meager four grand for your 8-MPG Ferrari F50 or 11-MPG Lamborghini Murcielago that is worth six figures even in this economy, so where is the upside when the closest thing you have to a clunker is a two-year-old Escalade.

Here’s the logic. Of all the stimulus measures, few put money directly into the economy. With the billions spent on road-building, the same contractors who already had business will likely get the business, not the ‘little guy’. The same few materiel suppliers benefitted from it, but the general main street population doesn’t see anything different than a few months of construction inconvenience and then a smoother road. With save our homes, a few individuals will keep their home and the BANKS will avoid more home ownership issues.

Not only is the CARS program is the only one that put ‘today’ cash into the local economy, but it is the only one with a leveraged return: for every few grand Uncle Sam donated for a down payment, $20,000 to $30,000 was transacted. Regional truckers moved the cars, local detailers cleaned the cars, local gas stations fueled the cars, many local banks provided loans, local and state tax coffers got a shot, and dealer personnel earned a few bucks in commissions and support salaries. Even at face value, the (likely) $3 billion pumped $15 billion to $205billion into real circulation, and buyers spent 75% of that. That translates to as much as half a billion of revenue changing hands in each state – not shabby, since Florida was battling a $2 billion shortfall.

More than that, the waters have been chummed for more buyers who didn’t qualify but got an itch to put something new in their driveway or saw their neighbors with new cars, so there is plenty of collateral business transacting in dealer showrooms. That results in a lot of trickle-UP economics. All of this cash flow is headed directly for local businesses—electronics retailers, home stores, pizza parlors, and even grocery stores. All those local and national proprietors will get closer to black ink for the quarter.

The people who profit from that black ink are the ones who typically spend their money on luxury items. Agree or disagree with the long-term impact of the stimulus, but the CARS program is making a difference today for a LOT of people. Hopefully more than a few of those who profit from the trickle-UP will be able to find their way into exotic car stores AND take home a new toy.

New Lambo Spyder is a ROCKET

2009-07-10T21:55:00.002-04:00

For years, people have asked me why people buy Ferrari over Lamborghini, or vice versa. I always described the different image each car represents, with Lambo being ostentatious looks with great performance, and Ferrari more of high-performance art on wheels that also has the benefit of 16 F1 Constructors Championships and hundreds of sports car races. And as much as Lamborghinis pin my cheeks back during acceleration and yank my guts around in the curves, I’ve always had a little bit more passion for the Cavallino Rampante. But with the launch of the LP560-4 Spyder, I would probably have buyer’s remorse if I couldn’t have one of each.

The performance capability of the LP is mind-numbing – 0-60 in 3.5 seconds and a quarter mile time of 11.5 seconds at an amazing 128 mph. Yikes! Throw in a 201 mph top speed and that’s supercar territory. The rear-mid engine sports car sports a 5.2-liter, 40-valve V10 that pumps out a massive 552 horsepower and just under 400 pound-feet of torque to all four wheels.

Properly equipped (you want e-Gear, carbon-ceramic brakes, and heated power seats), prices will top $250k, but VW/Audi engineering and reliability eliminate most traditional objections to Italian sports cars, as long as there’s enough in the bank account to cover the check.

Give us a call if you are interested in putting one in your garage!

2009 24 Hours of le Mans Looks to be a Thriller

2009-06-09T12:07:00.006-04:00

There is a good chance that this year's 24 Heueres du Mans, scheduled for June 13-14, will be the end of an era. With the global financial meltdown as a backdrop, it is likely that the diverse field of new and old competitors will be greatly changed next year, as funding sources get thin, and manufacturers merge or (even worse) disappear.

A noteworthy victim will likely be the Corvettes, which have been a staple at the endurance classic for a decade in the GT1 class. They were already slated to downsize to the GT2 class, but the General Motors Bankruptcy will likely end their run. This year's GT1 class will feature four Vettes (two factory), as well as a privateer Lamborghini Murcielago and Aston Martin DB9 competitors.

The GT2 class has dramatically changed face this year. For the first time in ages, Porsche doesn't make up the majority of cars in the field - a role assumed by a plethora of Ferrari F430 GT vehicles. An Aston Martin Vantage and Spyker fill out the category.

There is plenty of diversity in the LMP1 and LMP2 (leMans Prototype) classes, as Audi and Peugeot battle it out with diesel power against a host of other major marques, including Aston Martin with three closed-cockpit cars (pictured above), Mazda, and Porsche. There is also a host of European one-off competitors, including Creation Judd, Ginetta Zytek, Oreca, Pescarolo, and more.

As in previous years, SPEED TV will run a good portion of the race on cable starting at 8:30 am eastern Saturday. And they are upping their coverage with live streaming with SPEED radio on the web, as well (http://www.speedtv.com/). There is a GREAT race primer that Aston Martin created: http://www.newspress.co.uk/LINKS/57867ast/57867ast.pdf

I predict another overall and LMP1 win by Audi, though Peugeot and Aston will give them a run for their money. The Porsche RS Spyders are my favorite for LMP2 with the Vettes and a Ferrari on the podium in the GT classes. Enjoy the competition, as next year's race will likely have a whole different look.

RM Auctions' Ferrari sale blasts price record

2009-05-20T23:37:00.004-04:00

According to a release from RM:

RM Auctions, in association with Sotheby’s, made history this past weekend at Maranello, as the sale of a 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa set a new world record for the highest price achieved by a motor car at auction. One of just 22 pontoon-fendered Testa Rossas produced, this wonderful example of one of the most significant racing cars in history attracted global media attention and spirited bidding. When the gavel fell, 0714 TR sold for €9,020,000 or approximately USD $12.2 million, surpassing the previous world record set by RM in 2008 for a 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder.

Ferrari to leave F1??

2009-05-12T20:41:00.003-04:00

After 60 years of continuous participation in Formula One competition (more than any other marque), Ferrari may not participate in the 2010 season as a result of FIA equipment rule changes that Ferrari feels are inappropriate.

Ferrari piggybacked the information on a financial press release this month, but it's sure to rock the racing world.

According to the press release, "The Board considers that if this is the regulatory framework for Formula 1 in the future, then the reasons underlying Ferrari’s uninterrupted participation in the World Championship over the last 60 years – the only constructor to have taken part ever since its inception in 1950 – would come to a close.

"The Board also expressed its disappointment about the methods adopted by the FIA in taking decisions of such a serious nature and its refusal to effectively reach an understanding with constructors and teams. The rules of governance that have contributed to the development of Formula 1 over the last 25 years have been disregarded, as have the binding contractual obligations between Ferrari and the FIA itself regarding the stability of the regulations.

The same press release showed Ferrari profits are down by about 10 percent of the same period last year, but saving more than $100 million on its F1 team are sure to reflect on the bottom line...unless Fiat plans to use those funds to bolster any takeover of Chrysler or GM's Opal division.

Time will tell, but I will miss the Scuderia gang on the starting grid, and hope the differences can be worked out.

New Lotus Esprit still a possibility

2009-05-12T19:45:00.004-04:00

It's been half a decade since Lutus stopped production of its venerable Esprit, and there's still no replacement in production - but they're trying to get one launched by 2012. It has been reported recently that Lotus may be able to put the replacement into production if Evora sales generate enough revenue or they are able to line up additional financial backing.

The original Esprit was powered by a turbo-four cylinder engine, then a turbocharged eight, and word on the street is that the next generation would be powered by a BMW V8 - which is logical, since it won't directly compete with their product line like it will with Mercedes-Benz products or the VW/Audi family of vehicles.

Panamera to Forge New Ground for Porsche

2009-05-06T11:23:00.007-04:00

The design is undeniably polarizing - people either love it or hate it. But either way, it's pure Porsche, and thus engineered for performance.

After decades of starts and stops creating a sedan, and even a production SUV, the Stuttgart gang brings us the Panamera, ready to take on the likes of Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and even Maserati. The front-engine, rear-drive car resembles a stretched 911 and will be available with a host of powerplants from the Cayenne, including a 3.6-liter V6 (296 hp) and 4.8 liter V8s (395 hp in the S, and 493 hp in twin-turbo). All variants on United States shores will have a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission.

Look for all the options and features in the coupe line, as well as more than a few admiring stares and "what is it" questions. Pricing of close to $90,000 for the V6 may be a bit optimistic, but the V8 versions will likely give established Euro sedans a run for their money.

We have access to early deliveries, so call today.

Motorcycles to Show at '09 Pebble Beach Concours

2009-04-14T21:20:00.006-04:00

The promotors of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance announced that for the first time, motorcycles will grace the manicured grounds of the legendary annual event. Scheduled for Sunday, August 16, the event is renowned for its display of Bentleys, Ferraris, Bugattis, Delahayes, and more. These storied marques will be joined by a collection of classic bikes, including Vincents, Brough Superiors, Nortons BSAs, Velocettes, Triumphs, and Ariels, with a focus on British bikes.

“International interest in collecting classic motorcycles is on the rise, and we want to celebrate them and do all we can to support their preservation and restoration,” said Sandra Kasky Button, Chairman of the Pebble Beach Concours. “These motorcycles will both complement and contrast the automobiles on our field. In a very real way, they expand on the history of the car; many early automakers started by making two- and three-wheelers — and some still do!”

Included among the British motorcycles heading to the 18th fairway will be two legendary Vincent HRD V-Twins — the famed 1947 works racing machine known affectionately as “Gunga Din” (pictured) and a 1948 bike built for US sportsman John Edgar and often nicknamed the “Bathing Suit Bike” due to the scant attire of its primary rider, Roland “Rollie” Free.

More details about the event can be found at www.pebblebeachconcours.net.

Maserati Launches Track Car

2009-04-06T17:28:00.002-04:00

A limited number of Maserati GranTurismo MC (for Maserati Corse, or race) European competition cars are being constructed for both GT4 European Cup events and a 2010 Maserati single-make cup series. So those who want a track version of the Maserati GranTurismo S now have an option. The 4.7-liter V8 carries over, as well as the 6-speed electrohydraulic (F1) rear transaxle. The car is constructed of carbon fiber and was engineered and built with a full complement of track safety equipment.

Lexus IS Convertible to battle Germans

2009-03-13T08:06:00.004-04:00

Taking a page out of the BMW product portfolio, Lexus is planning to build a hardtop convertible version of the spunky IS sedan. Initially available in 2.5- and 3.5-liter V6 versions, it will be available with their six-speed automatic with paddle shifters or a six-speed manual.

Enhancements to make the car user-friendly in al fresco mode include glass in front of the guages that reduces glare, more power from the air conditioning system and adjustments to the sound system to compensate for the open top. All the standard Lexus safety systems are included, along with structural enhancements to offset rigidity losses from removing the top.

The two questions this car brings to mind for me are: 1) is there a coupe version in the pipeline? and 2) how soon before the V8 IS-F hits the road?

Smart buyers will take the bigger engine and put down their deposit for the IS-F Convertible, as it can't be far behind.

Aston Martin announces SUV

2009-03-10T20:39:00.002-04:00

Traditionally an ultra-luxury sedan nameplate, Aston Martin's new Lagonda will be released as an exclusive SUV. The initial photos indicate a distinctive design that doesn't necessarily tie it to Aston design lineage, but it does have a love-it-or-hate-it appearance. If it actually makes it into production in unusual economic times (Aston touts markets in Russia and the Middle East as big targets), it will join the Spyker SUV (if it makes into production) as THE premier SUV to park at the country club or steeplechase.

Details are sparce, but Aston Martin CEO, Dr. Ulrich Bez, promises the vehicle will have substantial amounts of new technology and materials.

Latest Murciélago one fast Bull - LP 670-4 SuperVeloce

2009-03-10T20:04:00.003-04:00

Lamborghini recently announced the latest generation of it's Murciélago, the LP 670-4, an all-wheel-drive beast with 670 horsepower (Euro-spec) driving all four wheels on a chassis 220 pounds lighter than its predecessor.

More than just a lightweight version with more power, the new car features several design changes, including more aggressive front and rear fascias, and a choice of two wings. The aerodynamic package was enhanced to enhance downforce, limiting top speed to 212 miles-per-hour.

The interior can be had with extensive carbon fiber and Alcantara, and the signature scissor doors continue.

“The new Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce is the systematic continuation of our brand philosophy. It is more extreme and uncompromising than virtually any other automobile,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “As the new top model of the highly successful Murciélago range, the SuperVeloce displays not only outstanding driving dynamics, it is also further evidence of our company's technological expertise. Customers can look forward to an utterly unparalleled driving experience.”

Bugatti going topless, expanding model range?

2008-08-22T13:22:00.001-04:00

Bugatti recently released photos and showed the forthcoming Veyron targa version, called Grand Sport, with a removable top and the same ground-pounding drivetrain. Word is this open-top version will hustle to more than 200 mph with the top off and still retain it's 250-mph top speed capability with the top in place. Pricing is expected to be in the $2.5 million with a very limited number of units scheduled for production.

In addition, Autocar in Europe speculates that a high-performance 'GT' version of the Veyron may be replacing the current model at the end of production, though no word from the factory. The publication across the pond also speculates that a sedan model may be joining the lineup, but again, the factory and it's Audi/Volkswagen parents are mum on the subject thus far.
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New Lotus model line may include convertible

2008-08-06T11:07:00.002-04:00

Lotus revealed their new flagship sports car at the London Auto Show, the Evora. Sporting graceful design looks like a larger version of the Exige combined with a Ferrari 430, the mid-rear engine car appears poised to go head to head with Porsche's 911. It comes with a 280-hp V6 sourced from Toyota and will have seating for two or four passengers. Speculation is that a high performance 'S' version with a supercharger could pump out as much as 400 hp.

About 10 minutes after Lotus announced the Evora as a 2009 model, it announced that production would be pushed back to 2010. Now Lotus announces that a droptop version could follow in 2011. There is no pricing announced for either variant, but if it starts much higher that the Porsche 911 range, Lotus could face an uphill battle to sell its 2,000 units per year - even with its Ferrari-esque looks.

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2009 Porsche 911 ups the bar

2008-08-04T20:28:00.003-04:00

While the cosmetic and power enhancements to the upcoming 2009 Porsche 911 line are incremental, the big story is its new dual-clutch transmission, or Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK).

Power from new flat-six engines is is boosted by direct fuel injection, resulting in 20 horsepower gains in the standard model's 3.6liter engine, to 345 hp, and up to 385 in the 'S' variants - good for a top speed of 188 mph, according to the factory. Mild freshening of the front and rear fascias will be evident enough to aficionados to tell who's got the latest model, if not casual fans of the brand. The glass panel on the Targa is now a two-piece setup, with the forward section sliding back under the rear section for open-air motoring. Porsche boasts fuel efficiency is improved by 13 percent in the European ratings.

According to the factory, they (not Audi) developed dual clutch technology a quarter century ago. Regardless who gets the credit, the seven-speed unit in the 09 car knocks two-tenths off the 0-60 times (4.5 & 4.1 seconds for the Carrera and S, respectively) over the six-speed shaker. The PDK transmission is compatible with Porsche's sportchrono package, and all models receive Porsche Communication Management (PCM) 3.0, with its affiliated video and audio services.

The base price of the new babies from Stuttgart: $75,600 (Carrera) / $86,200 (Carrera S). Having a Porsche your wife can drive without trashing the clutch: PRICELESS!

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See & hear F1 legend Michael Schumacher's comments on the new Ferrari California

2008-07-30T13:23:00.000-04:00

New Mercedes-Benz / AMG SL65 BLACK is a monster - so is the price!

2008-07-25T22:31:00.003-04:00

For those of you who feel remiss in not shelling out the half million dollars for a SLR Roadster before the breakup of MB and McLaren, Mercedes is bringing its über SL down the pipeline to a showroom near you...at a projected price of $320,000 USD. Now I know the dollar is weak, but totally collapsed? I mean this SL is definitely a monster of performance, with a pounding 661hp propelling a stiffened chassis (sans folding hardtop) at supercar speeds, and it has vicious looks combined with all the requisite hardware upgrades, but they may have a hard time getting Ferrari and Lamborghini prices for a Benz that sits next to a C Class in showrooms.

If you MUST have this next to your S-Class in the garage, by all means give us a call, and we'll make all the arrangements, but we make no guarantees regarding resale value. Check out more pix and desktop wallpaper at Automobile Magazine.

I've said for years that Mercedes should package all their six-figure AMG cars with Maybach to create an ownership path for their super brand. The fact that you can get the 'base' car version of this Black Series for 1/3 the investment makes it hard to retain value...but the good German doctor didn't ask me my opinion!

Lotus launches special edition type 72D

2008-05-26T22:26:00.007-04:00

From the Lotus announcement of the $58k Collector's Limited Edition:
Lotus Cars USA, Inc. is pleased to announce the 35th Anniversary Commemorative Edition type 72D. This exclusive Collectible Edition model memorializes one of the finest Formula One designs of all time — the Lotus 72. It was in this vehicle that the legendary Emerson Fittipaldi proved unstoppable, winning five of eleven races in 1972, thus becoming the youngest champion in F1 history.

Each 72D is sequentially numbered, individually signed by both Clive Chapman (son of Lotus Founder Colin Chapman) and Michael J. Kimberley (Group Lotus CEO) and specially certified with documentation of the vehicle’s legacy.

A type 72D commemorative driving helmet with display case is included with each vehicle.

This collectible edition will be offered in the very limited quantity of just 50 units worldwide.
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Aston Martin announces improvements for Vantage update

2008-05-23T23:58:00.004-04:00

From Aston Martin press release:
Aston Martin’s V8 Vantage – originally launched to widespread critical acclaim at the Geneva Motor Show in 2005 – is to receive significant technical enhancements, reaffirming the car’s position as one of the world’s most desirable and exhilarating sports cars.

While the universally distinctive and award-winning shape of the V8 Vantage is retained, the car benefits from a number of technical changes which include significantly up-rated engine performance from a new 4.7 litre power unit in both Coupe and Roadster variants. Other changes include revised dynamics to take full advantage of increased power and torque availability, improved Sportshift™ transmission software and a new sports suspension option.

The 4.7 litre V8 engine has a power output of 420bhp (an 11% increase on the previous 4.3 litre unit) and delivers peak torque of 470Nm (15% increase), providing the V8 Vantage with new reserves of mid-range performance, an improved 0-60mph time of 4.7 seconds and top speed of 180mph (288km/h). Combined European fuel economy and CO2 emissions are also improved by 13% (Sportshift™).

Inside, the changes include a new centre console and revised switchgear and the introduction of an ECU replacing the previous V8 Vantage key. Externally, the acclaimed V8 Vantage design appearance is enhanced with a range of new standard and optional 19’’ alloy wheels.
Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “Continued development and evolution of our unique VH (Vertical-Horizontal) architecture has brought even higher levels of refinement and dynamic performance to our whole range.

“With the new 4.7 litre engine and associated changes we have taken the V8 Vantage to new levels of performance to produce an even more desirable sports car.
“The V8 Vantage is now the most successful Aston Martin in our history and we are confident these changes will continue its appeal and driving enjoyment for both new and existing customers.”
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Ferrari releases California photos

2008-05-23T23:37:00.007-04:00

A week in advance of their website countdown, Ferrari released photos of the upcoming California spider 2+2 GT. As a vehicle which can either be seen as a scaled-up F430 or scaled-down 612 Scaglietti, the Italian carmaker seems poised to launch a shot into Porsche's Turbo Cab niche. The new grand tourer is Ferrari's first with a front/mid engine V8.
DOWNLOAD FREE DESKTOP WALLPAPER

Boasting an updated version of the 4.3 liter in the F430with direct injection, a twin-clutch, seven-speed transmission, and 454 horsepower, the newest prancing horse puts the proverbial cherry on top with a retractable hardtop.

The official Ferrari press release (download here) boasts projected acceleration to 60mph in less than four seconds. The new model is filled with a host of technical goodies, including F1-trac traction control from the 599 Fiorano. With the new model, Ferrari seems poised to carve a larger piece of the sports car pie for itself, as it adds new models, as well as several new dealership. Such growth may mean that Ferrari will lose some of its exclusivity, but more Ferraris from more places are a win-win for the sports car buyer. MORE PHOTOS HERE

Maserati MC12 Corsa - get your one of 12!

2006-05-26T10:39:00.002-04:00

From Maserati Press release:

Maserati has taken the wraps of its $1.7 million supercar, a new track-only version of the World Championship-winning Maserati MC12 called the Corsa and which will only be sold to valued Maserati customers who will be restricted to using their new supercar on private track days.
“This is a unique opportunity to own a car that is the reigning GT World Champion,” says Edward Butler, General Manager for Maserati in Australia and New Zealand. “The world-beating racing car was developed from the Maserati MC12 road car and the Corsa is derived directly from the GT1 racing car exclusively for track use. It will not be homologated for road use.”
"The MC12 Corsa has been developed in response to the customer demand to own the MC12 racing car and fuelled by the growth in track days, where owners can drive their cars at high speeds in the safety of a race track without the obvious constraints of normal road use,” says Mr Butler. “Without doubt the MC12 Corsa is the ultimate track day car!”
The 564 kW MC12 Corsa has been developed from the MC12 GT1 which won the 2005 FIA GT Manufacturers Cup. It will be used exclusively on track during private test sessions and exhibition activities organised by Maserati. It will not be homologated for road use or for any racing activity.
The Maserati MC12 Corsa, which is living testimony of Maserati’s ability to individually tailor make unique cars with the highest technological content, will be on sale at the price of a million Euros plus tax in September. Available in the official Maserati “Blue Victory” color, it may also be personalized upon request with several optional items
Total production of the Maserati MC12 Corsa will not exceed 12 units worldwide.

Range Rover upgrades for '07

2006-05-26T10:33:00.000-04:00

According to carconnection.com, these are some of the changes for the new year:

Range Rover Gets Upgrades for '07
Land Rover's Range Rover model gets a series of improvements for the 2007 model year, including upgrades to its interior and its off-road technology. Inside, the RR's cabin is fitted with more wood trim on the door panels, revised storage space and repositioned gearshift and parking-brake controls. New front seats offer optional cool-air circulation along with their standard heating elements. Side airbags have been moved to the seats as well. Land Rover's Terrain Response system appears on the Range Rover for 2007 as well, while an electronic rear differential is now available or standard on supercharged versions.

Mercedes released details about SL 550

2006-03-29T10:05:00.000-05:00

The new SL 550 doesn't cover any radical new ground, with the German company instead preferring to upgrade the engine and and a minor facelift. In fact if they aren't side by side, you can't really tell the difference. This should help prevent the major slide in values that Mercedes vehicles typically have with the launch of a new body style.
The new vehicle shares its drivetrain with the all new S class. Its 5.5 liter powerplant jumps 80 horsepower, to 382, and now has 391 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 52. Power is transferred to the rear wheels through their 7G-tronic 7-speed automatic transmission.
Sterns has Mercedes SL 550 for sale

Spyker - We don't even know her!

2006-03-29T09:33:00.000-05:00

Holland supercar takes on exotic market
Spyker combines great looks, great performance and a mind-blowing interior as it tries to carve its way into the American market. Read the story I wrote for Makes and Models Magazine.
Sterns has Spyker for sale

Classic Land Rover - More than Just a Name

2006-03-29T00:51:00.000-05:00

While the modern Range Rover may be the epitome of a luxury SUV, its predecessors started live as a basic farm implement. Read about the Rover's humble beginnings as a Series I, by Tom LaPointe
STERNS has Land Rovers for Sale

New Lotus Esprit info released

2006-03-27T13:41:00.000-05:00

Autocar.com posted the following information:

This image shows how the next Esprit may look. The MSC (Mid-Engined Supercar) is undergoing crash testing and will be launched in early 2008. Engineering of the next Esprit is 'racing forward at speed' according to Lotus. Russell Carr, chief designer at Lotus, believes that the Esprit's footprint will be 'much more compact than that of the Lambo [the Gallardo] or the Ferrari [F430]'.Power is expected to come from a V8, perhaps sourced from BMW and equipped with twin turbos. This will probably be linked to a six-speed sequential transmission.The production estimate is 2500 cars a year of the aluminium or composite skinned car, which is crucial to Lotus, which is currently running its Hethel operation on a three-day week.

Sterns has Lotus Esprit for sale...Contact Sterns to order Lotus Esprit

12 Hours of Sebring

2006-03-19T20:04:00.000-05:00

The 2006 12 Hours of Sebring are further proof that Audi/Volkswagen is the greatest automobile engineering company in the world. They put their diesel LMP racecars on the pole and finished with one of the cars in the top podium spot. The only thing that would have made it perfect is that they had the other one in the garage at the checkered flag.

Corvette won its class against a daunting challenge by the Aston Martin DBR9s that bumped the second Vette from the podium in the final minutes of the race.

Porsche has to head back to the endurance drawing board, as the top spot in GT2 was stolen by the Panoz Esperante, which gave Panoz its first win, with the Ferrari 430 Challenge car finishing third. It was an emotional victory for the brand created by Dan Panoz, after years of near misses in the LMP category.

One of the greatest personal experiences for me was meeting both Don Panoz and Dan Panoz at the conclusion of the race. Also fun to hang out with some of the DuPont Registry "Cars and Coffee" crowd, as well.

My Ride in the Bugatti Veyron / Amelia Concours

2006-03-15T00:00:00.000-05:00

Entire Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance was incredible. But greatest event for me was riding in 1005 Horsepower Bugatti Veyron. With a seasoned F1 driver at the wheel, we launched 0 to 110 to 0 MPH in less than a city block. What a rush...what a car...what an experience overall. The car is friendly enough that my wife could easily drive it, and so incredible that it carries the title of "fastest car in the world". Photos coming soon. See all our cool stuff at www.jeffsterns.com
Sterns has Bugatti Veyron for sale

New 2007 Cadillac Escalade Makes the Scene

2006-03-07T20:52:00.000-05:00

Cadillac has launched it's all-new 2007 Escalade. It features a 403hp V8 and more aerodynamic looks. Plus its new interior is more comparable to the import competitors - and appropriate for its $60k pricetag. Click here for more details.
STERNS has Cadillac Escalade for sale

Lexus LF-A Concept Car

2006-03-06T22:17:00.000-05:00

Lexus displayed its LF-A Sports Car Concept at the Detroit Auto Show. If this gets built, nobody can call Lexus design "boring". The vehicle could have 500hp and have a top speed nearing 200 mph.
Sterns has Lexus for sale

New Lamborghini LP640 shown

2006-03-05T22:51:00.000-05:00

Lamborghini previewed its next flagship supercar, the Marciélago LP640 at the Geneva Auto Show. The 6.5 liter V12 cranks out a whopping 640 hp and is a worthy heir to the thrown. More details and photos:

http://www.jeffsterns.com/html/LamboLP640.htm
Sterns has Lamborghini for sale

Rolls-Royce Coupe Shown at Geneva Auto Show

2006-03-05T22:39:00.000-05:00

Rolls-Royce displayed their 101EX Concept Coupe at the 2006 Geneva Auto Show. While it's doubtful that the stunning vehicle will see production, it does hint at future Rolls-Royce design directions. See more details at http://www.jeffsterns.com/html/rolls101_ex.htm
Sterns has Rolls-Royce for sale

Ferrari 599 Fiorano launched - By Tom LaPointe

2006-03-02T23:30:00.001-05:00

Ferrari launched its latest production vehicle at the 2006 Geneva Auto Show, the 599 GTB Fiorano. While the 612 was the target of a lot of design criticism, the replacement for the 575 Maranello is sleeker and has more balanced proportions. The newest horse in Ferrari’s stable makes copious use of aluminum, which keeps weight down and gives it a rigid body structure.

The Fiorano is powered by a 6.0 liter V12 derived from the Enzo supercar. The engine pumps out 620 horsepower and 448 lb-ft of torque through its rear wheels—Ferrari’s most powerful V12 of all time. Front and rear tire sizes are 19 and 20 inches, respectively, and the car will feature Ferrari’s full compliment of technological driving aids. Penned by Pininfarina, it is the latest in the line of front-engine V12 berlinettas that began with the 250 GT.

Expect a top speed of 190-ish, based on my estimates, and figure on pricing in the $300k range. Some of the design elements look somewhat Corvette-ish (or does the Vette emulate Maranello?), but the design is stunning.

STERNS is now coordinating orders for our clients.

STERNS as Ferraris for sale

Hanging with DuPont Registry Guys

2006-02-18T22:26:00.000-05:00

It's fun to have the DuPont Registry headquarters locally. Each month they host Cars & Coffee, an informal exotic car display / hang out. Several Ferraris, Porsches, Astons, Bentleys and more show. This morning, they gave us a tour of their facility. Killer!