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IN THE NEWS: Trident Launches World’s Fastest Diesel Sports Car

April 29, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

London, 29^th April 2014; Trident, the British sports car brand, today announced the global availability of its flagship Iceni sports car, the world’s fastest & most fuel efficient diesel sports car.

With a top speed in excess of over 190mph and the ability to run for 2000 miles on a single tank of mineral or bio-diesel, the Iceni uses torque multiplication technology to achieve this unique combination of speed, power & fuel efficiency.

Two new models to the Iceni range are also unveiled today, the Iceni Magna (fastback) & Iceni Venturer (estate). All three models boast the same impressive spec, each with its own distinctive design. In addition, the cars can store a minimum of two suitcases, as well as two holdalls, making a 2000-mile road trip a reality.

Phil Bevan, designer & founder of Trident said, “The Trident cars deliver incredible speed & performance combined with outstanding fuel efficiency, achieved through our unique torque multiplication technology.”

It is widely believed that horsepower delivers power, speed & fuel efficiency, but it is in fact torque that matters. Using this technology in a road car increases fuel efficiency by up to 20%. Trident has patented a unique way of utilising torque multiplication to improve performance and efficiency, which has been incorporated into all their sports cars.

The British designed Trident sports cars boast a distinctive look, with clean curves and the unusual sculpted rear. The cars also incorporate over thirty-nine bespoke, designed & manufactured components, including independent control of each car seat and oculight roof. In addition, every Iceni can be built to specific customer spec, ensuring a truly unique driving experience.

Daniel Monaghan, co-founder of Trident said, “We have worked extremely hard to reach this point & the whole Trident team is thrilled to be bringing the world’s most fuel-efficient diesel sports cars to market.”

The three Iceni sports cars are available to buy globally with prices starting from £96,000. With limited availability and a pre-launch waiting list, the three models are already in high demand across the globe.

If you’re interested in buying a Trident sports car please contact Trident direct, sales@trident-vehicles.co.uk or 01760 723866

IN THE NEWS: Porsche and Forbes Travel Guide Present Porsche Destination Drives

April 28, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Atlanta. Just in time for the travel season, Porsche Cars North America and Forbes Travel Guide are teaming up to present the ultimate travel and driving tour at five luxury hotels across the United States. Select Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star properties will have Porsche vehicles available for guests to enjoy during a thrilling two-hour driving experience. Suggested expert routes and destinations guide guests to the best things to see, do and taste in each city behind the wheel of a Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, 911 Carrera S Cabriolet or Cayenne GTS.

These five properties include:

Four Seasons Hotel Boston, May 10 – June 7
Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, June 14 – July 12
The Grand Del Mar in San Diego, July 26 – August 23
Mandarin Oriental San Francisco, September 13 – October 11
The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician in Scottsdale, November 1 – December 13

For more information on the Porsche Destination Drives tour and the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star properties visit forbestravelguide.com/Porsche.

IN THE NEWS: Jay Leno, Brian Johnson, Others Join Jaguar at 2014 Mille Miglia

April 28, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

(Whitley, Coventry – 28/04/2014). Jaguar Heritage Racing will be tackling the legendary Mille Miglia classic car endurance event from 15-18 May with a line-up of top-name drivers, which will be traversed over 1,000 gruelling miles from Brescia-Rome-Brescia in ten of the most revered and sought-after historic Jaguar cars ever produced.

Household names from stage and screen, plus fashion, motor sport and music celebrities will campaign their assigned historic Jaguars through Northern and Central Italy for four tough but memorable days of hard driving. Spectators enthusiastically lining the Mille Miglia route will get to see examples of historically-significant Jaguar XKs, C-types and D-types shooting past them with famous faces in the cockpits.

Leading American TV chat show host, Jaguar collector and classic car enthusiast – Jay Leno – will drive the famous ex-Sir James Scott-Douglas 1951 Jaguar XK 120 roadster, raced as part of the Ecurie Ecosse team in period.

Another well-known 1951 XK 120 roadster – the ex-Duncan Hamilton racer registered LXF 731 – will be shared by husband and wife team, Elliot and Erin Gleave. Elliot is better known as successful British musician Example, with his wife Erin being the Australian TV presenter that he first met when she interviewed him for MTV.

Other significant Jaguar XK models on the Mille Miglia will include the ex-Jim Swift racing XK120 roadster, which will be driven by multiple award-winning British actor Jeremy Irons. Multi-million album selling Scottish singer and songwriter Amy Macdonald will take the wheel of an XK140 once owned by successful British racing driver David Hobbs.

Jaguar Vehicle Integrity Chief Engineer Mike Cross will drive the well-known ex-Stirling Moss Monthlery record-breaking XK120 Coupé, which carries the registration LWK 707. Author David Blakeley and model-turned-TV presenter Jodie Kidd will share a stunning example of the Jaguar XK120, which was driven by Oscar-winning actor Daniel-Day Lewis in the 2013 event.

Jaguar Heritage Racing is also entering three famous C-type racing cars, to be driven by celebrities as diverse as Belgian singer-songwriter Milow (Jonathan Vandenbroeck) – who will drive with Jaguar Land Rover Regional Director for Europe Bernard Kuhnt, and legendary AC/DC lead singer and car afficionado Brian Johnson. Ex-Jaguar Le Mans 24 Hours race winner Andy Wallace will drive the Jaguar C-type which won the 1952 Reims Grand Prix with Formula 1 legend Sir Stirling Moss at the wheel.

Two motor racing greats – ex-Jaguar Le Mans and World Sports Prototype Championship winner, Formula 1 driver and SKY F1 TV pundit Martin Brundle, plus ex-Formula 1 racer Bruno Senna – will share the famous ‘Long Nose’ Jaguar D-type, the penultimate example built, registered 393 RW, as this legendary Jaguar model celebrates its 60^th anniversary in 2014.

A number of new Jaguar F-TYPE Coupés will support the Jaguar Heritage Racing team, following the full Mille Miglia route through Italy with broadcast crews and VIP guests.

The drivers making up the Jaguar Heritage Racing team will be tweeting live throughout the event, which was famously once proclaimed as: ‘The most beautiful race in the world’. Twitter profiles to watch for the latest personal updates on the event include:

Jaguar Heritage Racing Driver	Twitter profile name
Jay Leno	@LenosGarage
Martin Brundle	@MBrundleF1
Bruno Senna	@BSenna
Jodie Kidd	@RealJodieKidd
David Blakeley	@daveblakeley
Amy Macdonald	@Amy__Macdonald
Milow	@milow
Elliot Gleave (Example)	@example
Erin Gleave	@Erin_McNaught
Brian Johnson	@BrianJohnson

In addition Jaguar will be publishing live updates from 14-18 May at: www.facebook.com/Jaguar andwww.twitter.com/jaguar

PICK OF THE DAY: Superb 29,000-Mile Jaguar XJ12C

April 28, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

There’s a saying in the hobby, “You have to be a good sport, to own a sports car” and while not a sports car, the Jaguar XJ Coupés, produced between 1975 and 1978 can certainly be case-in-point. The build quality left much to be desired (doors patched together to create a longer coupé door, for example), the 5.3 litre V12 was anemic and inefficient, the pre-GM transmission might as well have been made from pudding. And yet… it was—and is—so alluring. With less than 2,000 cars made over its four-year run, it wasn’t a car one would see every day. It was handsomely appointed with burled walnut and Connoly leather. And that shape: one of the most well-proportioned, seductive, classic designs in automotive history. Altogether, it evoked personal luxury in a way that few cars have been able to, or at least not on middle-class wages. Thirty-some years later, the XJ12C remains exclusive as they don’t often come on the market. Furthermore, the problems that were inherent in them to begin with only exacerbate over time: engines and transmissions may have been swapped for a GM 350/Turbo Hydramatic drivetrain; rust has built up in the undercarriage, wheel arches, doors or beneath the vinyl roofs (standard on XJ12Cs); and electronics have gone haywire. This gorgeous example, with less than 29,000 miles on the clock, simply hasn’t had enough use for those issues to arise and with continued excellent care, there’s a good bet that they may not in the future. Being a Northwest car, there appears to be no rust with an excellent finish and no bubbling beneath the roof. Interior is fresh, original and meticulously clean. The motor and drivetrain will probably need careful monitoring from its sparse use, and it is after all an old Jag. But then, you have to be a good sport… Find it here on Craigslist in Sherwood OR—for about half a comparable Rolls-Royce Corniche—at $24,000.

IN THE NEWS: McLaren Special Ops Showcases MSO 650S Coupe Concept

April 28, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

McLaren Special Operations, the bespoke division of McLaren Automotive, has released images of the MSO 650S Coupe Concept – a showcase of the MSO designed and engineered upgrades available for the McLaren 650S Coupe and 650S Spider, the latest models to join to the McLaren Automotive range. The model is being shown throughout China over the coming weeks and includes an array of bespoke MSO features, including a newly designed carbon fibre rear diffuser and MSO-branded carbon fibre side blades.

The striking MSO 650S Coupe Concept has a stealth-like, menacing appearence, with subtle upgrades made to the exterior bodywork and within the driver-focused cabin. The MSO 650S Coupe Concept is finished in ‘Agrigan Black’, which is a metallic black paint specially developed in-house with a deep ruby red metallic flake. This paint effect gives the exterior bodywork a dramatic colour change in direct sunlight, contrasting with the extensive use of satin-finished carbon fibre highlights. The lightweight carbon fibre accents, including the prominent front splitter and air intakes, are complemented by bespoke MSO carbon fibre side blades and the unique MSO ear diffuser.

The MSO branded side blades are a more aggressive, full length, interpretation of the door blades seen on the 650S Coupe and Spider models. Finished in satin, they offer increased improvements to the airflow along the edges of the bodywork, further optimising aerodynamic efficiency. At the rear, the GT3-inspired rear bumper features a carbon fibre centre section, and the lightweight material carries through to the carbon fibre airbrake and unique MSO rear diffuser. The engine bay has been further enhanced with satin black engine covers and a satin finish to all carbon fibre parts. The purposeful exterior look of the MSO 650S Coupe Concept is finished with the addition of a set of special satin black finished lightweight ‘650S’ alloy wheels, shod with Pirelli P Zero™ Corsa tyres.

Inside the cockpit, the one-off design showcase is fitted with the fixed-back carbon fibre racing seats, based on the lightweight design found in the McLaren P1™, finished in carbon black leather. The seats position the occupants lower in the car and provide superb levels of upper and lower body support, while offering a weight saving of 15kg. Satin carbon fibre features extensively throughout the cabin, which is further enhanced by the switchgear and bezels that are finished in contrasting gloss black.

The MSO 650S Coupe Concept is presented as a one-off design study, and MSO is monitoring reaction regarding any potential production examples. The MSO side blades and rear diffuser are available to order now from McLaren retailers, priced at £5,114 and £7,245 respectively for a new 650S. These styling upgrades can also be fitted to the 12C.

PICK OF THE DAY: Almost There 1972 Porsche 911 T Targa

April 25, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

While the earlier short-wheelbase Porsche 911s have been in extraordinary demand lately, the “longhood” cars of 1972 remain some of the most coveted. 1972 brought fuel injection to the base 911 T (in the US) such that the full line, with the E and the S, now had MFI linked to the competent 2.4 liter motor. 1972 is also sought after as it was the only year that featured an external oil flap, located just aft of the passenger door. Aside from the visual difference, it correlated to the tank itself being moved in front of the rear wheels, which improved balance and handling, minimized oil surge and kept rocks and debris from damaging the shell. The rumor is that gas station attendants (which were still prevalent at the time)—unfamiliar with the location of the tank (and likely the motor as well)—assumed the flap was for gasoline and were no doubt surprised when the fuel quickly reached the top of the tank. Owners in turn were at least as surprised when their motors seized. Thus in 1973, Porsche returned the tank to its previous position and eliminated the flap. The ’72 E-Modelle and ’73 F-Modelle isn’t too far behind the earlier short-wheelbase cars, with recent auction prices eclipsing $100,000 for an S, $70-80K for an E and $60-70K for the Ts. This ’72 T Targa will need some love to bring it to that level, but it doesn’t appear far off. It has the matching numbers engine and transmission and appears to have an original interior, though it will need some attention including upholstery repair, dashboard (both relatively inexpensive), and door pockets (these aren’t cheap). In addition, while the floor pans look to be solid, it will need some rust repair in the undercarriage and typical areas on the body. Finally, given the thickness of paint on the car from numerous resprays, a quality bare-metal paint job would go a long way to bring the car up to a high standard (rust spots and skewed trim could be addressed at the same time). Besides the model year, its has some other pluses: its original Glacier Blue color is perfect for an early 70s 911 and it matches its Certificate of Authenticity. It has a well-documented history including the highly-prized maintenance book and ample service records. Furthermore, it is a nicely optioned car with S gauges and trim, leather steering wheel (swathed in an additional aftermarket cover in the photos), and tinted glass. The seller’s asking price of $45,000 is justifiable, albeit a little strong as there is work to be done and, despite their collectivity, they don’t fetch much in No. 3 or No. 4 driver condition. That said, the market continues to escalate and it won’t be long before anything under $50K is a bargain. Find it here on Craigslist in Tuscon AZ.

ON THE BLOCK: First Last Original Crewe-Built Rolls-Royce Headed to Silverstone

April 24, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

A great piece of British automotive history is heading to auction next month when the first example of the last Rolls-Royce model to be built at the original Crewe factory goes under the hammer at Silverstone Auctions.

Estimated at between £95,000 and £105,000, the Rolls Royce Corniche, chassis number 001, was purchased by the current owner in 2001. Its first owner was Rolls-Royce themselves who are believed to have used the car for testing and development, along with promotional marketing of the new model.

A significant motorcar in the history of the marque, the last of the ‘proper Rolls-Royces’, it was the final model to be developed at the original Crewe factory when the company was still independently owned. The car was also the first Rolls Royce to be launched in the 21st Century, an era which would see, and continues to see, huge changes having been taken over by BMW in 2003.

The car will be offered at Silverstone Auctions’ May Sale on May 24^th at The Wing, Silverstone Race Circuit and comes 110 years after the unveiling of the first ever Rolls-Royce, the 10HP in 1904.

Commenting on the car, Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions, said: “It’s a delight to be able to offer such a historically significant motor car for auction. Rolls-Royce is truly one of the world’s most admired car marques and it’s fantastic to be able to play a part in the history of a very significant example.”

The interior of the car offers a degree of comfort and luxury that has become a hallmark of the brand. As regards the power train under the bonnet, there’s no modern BMW V12 unit, but a 6.75 litre V8-engine whose Chrysler origins date back to the 1950s.

Fully maintained as per Rolls Royce factory requirements, the first five stamps in the service book were completed by Rolls Royce themselves at Crewe and the total mileage of the car today is just 24,926. Presented with the car is a substantial history file of service invoices and also the official sales brochure from Rolls Royce featuring the car itself.

For more information on the car please visit http://www.silverstoneauctions.com/2000-rolls-royce-cornich-chassis-001

PICK OF THE DAY: Spectacular 1967 MGB GT

April 24, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Spanning nearly two decades relatively unchanged, the MGB was and remains one of the most popular British sports cars ever made. It is perhaps the essence of the British Sports Car: attractive, lightweight and nimble, yet surprisingly spacious and comfortable. It made the best use of a tractor motor that has its roots in 1947 while providing tossable handling characteristics that make it a favorite of vintage racers to this day. In 1965, three years after the launch of the roadster, the MGB took on a fixed roof, designed by Pininfarina, which opened up the parcel shelf for 2+2 seating as well as a relatively generous cargo area, thanks to its hatchback design that would later serve as inspiration for the Volvo P1800ES, Jensen GT and Ferrari FF, to name a few. With roadster production outnumbering GTs nearly four to one, they were somewhat more exclusive and regal. In fact, Prince William has the 6-cylinder C version which was handed down to him from his father Charles. Today, they are more sought after than the roadsters and it would be hard to find a better example than this one. Though it was completely restored 20 years ago, it appears to have held up extraordinarily well since. It evokes quality in every detail from the excellent paint, brightwork and glass to a fresh looking interior to a spotless motor and undercarriage. It is being offered by only its second owner with just over 36,000 miles on the clock. Its recent service addresses many typical MG concerns. Find it here on Craigslist in Houston TX for $18,500.

PICK OF THE DAY: Nicely Preserved 1968 Porsche 912

April 23, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Anyone who has followed the market on the original short-wheelbase Porsche A Modelles can speak to their stratospheric appreciation, particularly since the recent Spring auctions. An SWB 911 is getting out of reach for most hobbyist collectors and becoming blue-chip. But there is a glimmer of hope. As it did when it was introduced in 1965, the 912 offers much of the same joys of owning a classic Porsche at prices that are still attainable. With their iconic looks, nimble handling and go-the-distance fuel economy, the Porsche 912 is a Cinderella story in the making. Finding a 912 that hasn’t been treated like the unworthy stepsister can be a grim task. Likewise, to bring one back to its deserved glory can be more trouble than its worth—literally. The 912 presented here has been exceptionally well preserved, with a numbers matching drivetrain, original interior and one repaint on a rust-free, accident-free body. Sepia Brown may not get a lot of love, but it is the original color and not at all out of character for a late 60s German sports car. It has some desirable options like original headrest and fog lamps as well as the expensive wood steering wheel (no mention whether that’s original but the forthcoming CoA will clarify). Pictured with the extra cost Fuchs, but correct stamped chrome steelies come with the car (which look more appropriate on a 912 anyway). It is said to be in an excellent mechanical state with recent tune up, carb cleaning and new gaskets, as well as new service distributor, belts, points and wires. It also has a reconditioned OEM gas tank, had brakes serviced and replaced all fluids, torsion bar bushings, battery, and OEM valve springs. Having been lowered two inches not only improves the already excellent handling of a 912, but makes it look more purposeful. It is being offered for sale by a noted early Porsche collector. Find it here on The Samba in Los Angeles CA for a reasonable $40,000.

PICK OF THE DAY: Presentable Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 6.3

April 22, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

In many ways, the Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 6.3 was the answer to a question that no-one at the time was asking. And yet, 45 years later, it is as historically significant as the Porsche 356 or Pontiac GTO. What it was was a fairly ubiquitous Mercedes W109 sedan with a monstrous 6.3 litre motor transplanted from the dignitary-class 600 Limousine. What it did was pave the way for future performance sedans like the BMW M5, Audi S8, and its own descendants in the AMG S63 and S65; all big luxurious saloon cars that are equally at home storming the autobahn or lapping the Nürburgring. The 6.3 was a two-ton car capable of 0-60 times around six seconds and a top speed around 150 MPH. It was the first German Q-Ship. Prices of 300SEL 6.3s have remained steady since a significant leap just prior to the recession. No. 1 cars can fetch as much as $60K, while there are many tired examples out there for under $20K. This example looks to be a solid No. 3 and with some tweaking could be brought to No. 2 fairly easily. It underwent a fair amount of restoration 20 years ago and it’s once again showing some age, but it’s more than presentable. More importantly, everything including the air suspension and mechanical fuel injection, are in excellent working order. The body and chassis appear to be completely rust free. Inside, all controls and instruments—including the original Becker Europa—work. It’s being offered by its fifth documented owner, and though it has been on the market for several months, a fresh price drop should attract new buyers. Find it here on Hemmings in Clinton Township MI for a negotiable $30,000.