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IN THE NEWS: McLaren 12C Spider Takes on Professional Snowboarder

To mark the start of deliveries of the 12C Spider in North America, McLaren Automotive has released a new short film. Shot at the notoriously treacherous Loveland Pass in Colorado, the 12C Spider navigates the tricky, snow-covered route “racing” against professional snowboarder Chanelle Sladics.

The 12C Spider is being driven in the video by Rhys Millen. The Native New Zealander is the current overall record holder for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, 2005 Formula Drift champion and 2008 Drifting World Champion. Rhys has appeared in over 500 commercials spanning 20 years and films including several appearances within the Fast and the Furious franchise, Indiana Jones and is currently working on a new film project soon to be released. “With a familiar back ground in Hill Climb competitions and a native New Zealander myself, on the eve of this 50 year celebration for McLaren it was an honour to have driven the 12C Spider up the twisty snowy mountain roads.”

Professional snowboarder Chanelle Sladics co-stars in the video, taking the 12C Spider to task as she takes the most direct route across the snow covered landscape. Sladics is an 8 time competitor at the winter X-Games and has hosted snowboarding competitions on ESPN.

At 11,990 feet (3,655 m) above sea level, Loveland is the highest mountain pass in the world that stays open during the winter months.

The video was produced and directed by J.F. Musial, Founder of Tangent Vector. Musial recently launched DRIVE, a YouTube channel focusing on creating original automotive content for the web.

The 12C Spider made its global debut in North America during the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance last year. The second model from the British high performance sportscar company is lightweight with a high powered engine which boasts 616 bhp, a unique Retractable Hard Top (RHT) folding roof system, and a carbon ‘MonoCell’ chassis identical to that of the groundbreaking 12C. The 3.8-litre V8 twin turbo engine is transmitted to the car’s rear driven wheels through a seven-speed SSG dual-clutch transmission.

A dedicated ‘Winter’ powertrain setting on the 12C and 12C Spider sets all electronic support systems to a maximum intervention level, with gearshift strategy and torque control optimised to limit any loss of traction.

McLaren Automotive is represented by 10 dealerships throughout North America. There are nine dealers located in the United States: McLaren Greenwich, McLaren Philadelphia, McLaren Tampa, The Collection McLaren (Miami), McLaren Dallas, McLaren Chicago, McLaren Newport Beach, McLaren San Francisco, and McLaren Beverly Hills. McLaren Toronto represents McLaren Automotive in Canada. The 12C Spider has a base MSRP of $265,750 in the US (excluding titling, tags and taxes).

All specifications are as of above date and are subject to change without notice. Performance data based on testing facility results.

ON THE BLOCK: 1968 Maserati Ghibli Barn Find at Silverstone International Trophy Sale

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Silverstone Auctions has unearthed arguably one of the most beautiful Maserati’s ever made that has been locked away for the past 14 years in dry storage.

Needing a complete restoration, this 1968 Maserati Ghibli barn find has been estimated at between £12,000 to £16,000 and will finally come to market at the Silverstone Auctions hosted International Trophy Sale on Friday 17th May.

Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions, said: “With some loving care and attention, this stunning Ghibli can once again rule the road as one of the most beautiful Maserati’s to be built.

“Indeed, it’s not every day that such a unique opportunity is presented in the classic car world, so I would urge interested parties to get in touch with Silverstone Auctions for more information about this car.”

The Ghibli was conceived in 1965-66 by Giorgio Giugiaro, then chief designer at Ghia. Its stunning good looks were just part of the story as it was mated with Maserati’s most powerful engine at the time – a 330 bhp V8 unit.

Unfortunately the end came for the Ghibli in 1973 with the introduction of its direct successor the Khamsin. Although more technically advanced, many would say that what it made up for in gadgets and gizmos was no match for the Ghibli’s styling.

“This is undoubtedly one of the best barn finds uncovered by the Silverstone Auctions team and it will be very exciting to see how it performs at the International Trophy Sale,” added Nick.

For more information about this 1968 Maserati Ghibli and the International Trophy Sale, for which entries are being invited, visit www.silverstoneauctions.com.

ON DISPLAY: The First-Ever Rolls Royce Exhibition at BMW Museum

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The first ever Rolls-Royce Motor Cars exhibition at the BMW Museum in Munich officially opens tomorrow. The unique exhibition, entitled ‘Strive for Perfection’, celebrates the tenth year of the renaissance of the Rolls‑Royce marque under BMW Group ownership. The exhibition also commemorates yet another key milestone in the history of the Rolls-Royce brand – the 150th anniversary of the birth of Sir Henry Royce.

The displays tell the story of the world’s leading super-luxury goods manufacturer in chronological detail; from the meeting of the company’s founding fathers, Sir Henry Royce and the Honourable Charles Stewart Rolls in 1904, through to the present day.

Situated in the landmark BMW Museum bowl and covering more than 1,000 square metres over five floors, the exhibition includes 15 original Rolls‑Royce motor cars dating from 1907 to 2012. The collection includes the famous Rolls-Royce 10EX, one of the most significant experimental cars in the world, built in 1926 to demonstrate the performance potential of the ‘New Phantom’. Sir Henry Royce engineered and drove 10EX himself in his relentless pursuit of automotive perfection.

The historic cars are complemented by beautiful descriptive displays, with themes including coachbuilding, craftmanship, Bespoke design, engineering and advertising. The narrative includes historic displays of the famous Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament and the ‘Pantheon’ radiator grille, both unmistakable icons associated with Rolls-Royce motor cars.

The exhibition is accompanied by displays of timeless craftsmanship from other British luxury manufacturers, including men’s and women’s fashion, leather goods, time pieces, shoes, silver and glass ware.

“This outstanding and historic exhibition proudly celebrates the tenth anniversary of the renaissance of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars under BMW Group ownership”, said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer. “Our contemporary motor cars present a unique blend of German expertise and technology and outstanding British craftsmanship and design. It is therefore appropriate that this key moment in the story of this Great British manufacturing success story is told in the BMW Museum, an iconic location which is both the ‘soul and the memory’ of the BMW Group.”

The first ever Rolls-Royce Motor Cars exhibition at the BMW Museum in Munich officially opens tomorrow. The unique exhibition, entitled ‘Strive for Perfection’, celebrates the tenth year of the renaissance of the Rolls‑Royce marque under BMW Group ownership. The exhibition also commemorates yet another key milestone in the history of the Rolls-Royce brand – the 150th anniversary of the birth of Sir Henry Royce.

The displays tell the story of the world’s leading super-luxury goods manufacturer in chronological detail; from the meeting of the company’s founding fathers, Sir Henry Royce and the Honourable Charles Stewart Rolls in 1904, through to the present day.

Situated in the landmark BMW Museum bowl and covering more than 1,000 square metres over five floors, the exhibition includes 15 original Rolls‑Royce motor cars dating from 1907 to 2012. The collection includes the famous Rolls-Royce 10EX, one of the most significant experimental cars in the world, built in 1926 to demonstrate the performance potential of the ‘New Phantom’. Sir Henry Royce engineered and drove 10EX himself in his relentless pursuit of automotive perfection.

The historic cars are complemented by beautiful descriptive displays, with themes including coachbuilding, craftmanship, Bespoke design, engineering and advertising. The narrative includes historic displays of the famous Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament and the ‘Pantheon’ radiator grille, both unmistakable icons associated with Rolls-Royce motor cars.

The exhibition is accompanied by displays of timeless craftsmanship from other British luxury manufacturers, including men’s and women’s fashion, leather goods, time pieces, shoes, silver and glass ware.

“This outstanding and historic exhibition proudly celebrates the tenth anniversary of the renaissance of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars under BMW Group ownership”, said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer. “Our contemporary motor cars present a unique blend of German expertise and technology and outstanding British craftsmanship and design. It is therefore appropriate that this key moment in the story of this Great British manufacturing success story is told in the BMW Museum, an iconic location which is both the ‘soul and the memory’ of the BMW Group.”

DESERT STORM: Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG 6×6 Near-Series Show Vehicle

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Stuttgart. Superior 6×6 all-wheel drive technology, AMG V8 biturbo power and looks that leave no room for any doubt: the Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG 6×6 near-series show vehicle is an off-roader which represents the last word in forward-thrusting power far from the beaten track. 400 kW (544 hp), a 6×6 drive, low-range ratio, five differential locks, portal axles, tyre pressure control system and a special chassis allow this pick-up to make good progress in environments where the concept of individual mobility normally bites the dust as soon as the road ends. But anyone who imagines that this is a Dakar-Rally-style vehicle is on the wrong track. Thanks to the wealth of interior enhancements from the AMG stable, the occupants can enjoy the highest possible degree of comfort, even when negotiating the worst that the combined forces of topography and meteorology can throw at them. The exclusive touches even extend to the load area which is finished in solid bamboo.   

 

The Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG 6×6 near-series show vehicle brings together the best of three worlds. The latest, revised G-Class series-production models lend the cultured off-roader the effortless superiority and refinement of a vehicle which has dominated the off-road scene for 34 years. They are also the source of the up-to-date interior concept with the contemporary dashboard featuring impressive new instruments and a large, central colour display. Unreserved robustness as well as practicality and a can-do attitude to off-road driving are the traits inherited from the military and the commercial G-Class models. Finally, the renowned Mercedes-AMG luxury and performance division contributes the superior engine technology and the interior which is as luxurious as it is comfortable.

6×6 technology: to the ends of the earth – and beyond

A look at the key data of the G 63 AMG 6×6 makes it clear that this model’s off-road world begins at a point where anything less than a vehicle with caterpillar tracks would have to give up the fight. Six driven wheels, an off-road low-range ratio in the transfer case, portal axles, five differential locks which can be engaged on the move and a tyre-pressure control system which allows the pressure in the huge 37-inch tyres to be adjusted in record time while the vehicle is running – all these are features which one seeks in vain in conventional cross-country vehicles. Together, they ensure that the G 63 AMG 6×6 has driving dynamics which are more than a match for the toughest terrain. As a result, the show vehicle is able to storm up the highest sand dunes with ease while sand tracks hold no fears thanks to its unshakable directional stability. Rocky terrain is negotiated with all the agility of a mountain goat; traversing a river becomes almost child’s play thanks to the impressive fording capability of one metre. And anyone exploring the on-road performance is certain to be impressed by the catapult-like acceleration of this 3.85-tonne pick-up.

Despite its unique drive technology, the show vehicle does not actually represent a new development in terms of technology. After 34 years of G-Class production, there is such a large array of “G” parts to draw on that the G 63 AMG 6×6 uses almost exclusively series-production components under the skin. A case in point is the drive train: the AMG V8 biturbo engine with 400 kW (544 hp) and 760 newton metres of torque, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission paired with the front drive system from the G 63 AMG and a rear twin drive train from the 6×6 version which has already proven its reliability in service with users such as the Australian army. Plus the ingenious portal axles, which also have military origins, here making their debut in a civilian vehicle.

Independent and neutral: the chassis

The chassis is largely based on the current production configuration, the only difference being that the helical springs and dampers have been adjusted to take account of the changed characteristics of the three-axle model. For the springs, too, the engineers were able to draw on the comprehensive array of “G” parts, which includes no fewer than 15 different spring rates. While the front axle takes over the reinforced springs from an armoured special-protection variant, the first rear axle has been given a significantly harder spring rate and the second rear axle a softer one. This set-up, together with the rally-proven, adjustable gas-pressure shock absorbers, results in a perfect symbiosis of sporty dynamism and composed comfort, on or off the road.

Macho outside – S-Class inside

Visually, the G 63 AMG 6×6 pickup leaves no room for any doubt as to its true calling. The large tyres on the three axles, the huge ground clearance, the height of almost 2.30 metres and the width of some 2.10 metres as well as the clean-cut lines of the pick-up immediately inspire respect. Like the G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG models before it, the super off-roader with its 5.87-metre-long body has the characteristic AMG brand face with the “twin blade” radiator grille. Other visual highlights include the use of elegant carbon fibre for the integrated LED light strips above the windscreen as well as for the large flared wheel arches while the rear load area section has a distinctive stainless-steel roll-over bar. The load area, which is lined with particularly tough and durable bamboo, can be accessed by means of a tailboard.

Sporty luxury, the hallmark of AMG, is the defining characteristic of the interior. The G 63 AMG 6×6 welcomes its occupants aboard with an exclusive ambience of classic red or light brown designo leather with contrasting topstitching and attractive diamond-pattern quilting. The four electrically adjustable individual seats are heated and ventilated. The rear compartment is equipped with a special centre console while the roof liner and pillars are finished in an Alcantara® covering. The rear panel is trimmed in leather.

Graz is the centre of the “G” world

The two G 63 AMG 6×6 vehicles which have been built to date were developed with Mercedes-Benz at the helm. The Graz-based Mercedes-Benz G-Class development department is the centre of competence for all “G” projects and is responsible for development and series support of the legendary cross-country vehicle. Furthermore, Graz in Austria has been the production site for all civilian and commercial G-Class vehicles since 1979. The response to the near-series show vehicle will determine if and when the Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG 6×6 enters small-series production.

TWO [WHEELS] TO SHOW: Legendary Motorcycles at Salon Privé

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Syon Park, London, 13 March 2013 – Salon Privé is delighted to welcome back renowned two-wheel authorities Malcolm Wheeler and Steve Parrish to judge the motorbike classes in this year’s Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance.

Following last year’s outstanding success of the motorcycle classes at Salon Privé, the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance is delighted to welcome back the two-wheel category in 2013.  A broad category of ‘Sporting Motorcycles’ together with ‘Oddballs and One-Offs’ will make up this year’s two motorcycle classes.

Among the highlight entrants already signed up for the ‘Sporting’ class is 1960s racer, Reg Everett, who achieved many successes on Greeves and Yamaha bikes, notching up 25 wins out of fifty rostrum places.  Reg is entering an extremely rare 1964 250cc Yamaha TD1A racer – the first racing Yamaha in the country, and one that gave him a famous victory over Brands Hatch champion, Derek Minter, on his home turf.

Among the Oddball class early entries is a unique 1953 Norton Tom Tom, entered by renowned Norton single-cylinder specialist and author of ‘Flat Tank Norton’, Dr George Cohen.  In addition, Belgian motorcycle author Yves Campion has entered a seldom seen 1932 Moto Gillet, presented in a condition that has to be seen to be believed.

Custom motorbike builder Allen Millyard is entering the ‘Flying Millyard’ 5-litre Vee-Twin Engine, following his success with a class-winning 100cc Honda in 2012.  The cylinders for this year’s creation are from a 1930s Pratt and Whitney radial aircraft engine, with everything else hand made. Allen is currently building a 1930s style board racer around the engine.

With the above and many more continuing to be entered to the ever-growing Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance motorcycle classes at Salon Privé, 2013 is already shaping up to be another exceptional year for both bikes and cars on the lawns of Syon Park in September.

Entries may still be accepted for the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance, for more information on entering a car or motorbike please visit http://www.salonprivelondon.com/concours/register.asp

Tickets for Salon Privé can be purchased at www.salonprivelondon.com or by calling the Ticket Hotline on 0808 100 2205.  Entry is fully inclusive of Pommery champagne, lobster luncheon, English afternoon tea and full access to all areas.

IN CLASSICS: Mercedes-Benz Classic Index Shows Steady Progression in Values

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Classic Mercedes-Benz models perform as strongly in the market as they do on the road, according to an international research organisation that has just released the first ever index to comprehensively measure the brand’s value progression.

The Mercedes-Benz Classic Index (MBCI), created by classic car market research company The Historic Automobile Group International (HAGI), gained 11.65% in 2012. Moreover, a market back-test to 1980 reveals a solid annual average growth rate of nearly 9%.

The MBCI, which is supported by Mercedes-Benz Classic, the manufacturer’s heritage division, is the culmination of the most comprehensive research programme ever conducted into classic Mercedes-Benz value growth.

HAGI has selected 29 different Mercedes-Benz models to provide the yard-stick for market performance. The MBCI uses only authenticated transactions and only vehicles confirmed to be in first-class condition. The value of each model in the database has been charted from the price when new, through the depreciation J-curve and upwards to the present in classic afterlife.

Models incorporated into the index range from immortal pre-war models such as the S, SSK and 540K to sports models of the early 1980s. Among rarer prestige models of the 1950s, the legendary 300SL Gull-wing and Roadster are a considerable force in the market place. For the 1960s and 1970s index models include the exclusive 280 SE 3.5 coupe and cabriolet, along with the hugely successful “Pagoda” SL 230/250/280 sporting convertibles.

“While rarer Mercedes models number among some of the most valuable and desirable cars in the world, our research also shows that the benefits of solid appreciation are also enjoyed by mainstream Mercedes classic models,” said Dietrich Hatlapa, HAGI founder.

HAGI has undertaken in-depth research to ensure the index constituents are truly representative of the overall Mercedes-Benz classic portfolio. This process has been conducted entirely independently of Mercedes-Benz, which has had no influence on or input into index design. The MBCI applies the same rules as traditional stock market indexes.

To keep abreast of market developments HAGI has created a “watch list” of “Emerging Classics” such as the 300 SEL 6.3, 450 SEL 6.9, 190 Evo II or 500 E. This segment, although not in the index, is being kept under special observation and is being monitored for future development and potential inclusion as the market evolves.

The MBCI comprises more than 24,500 vehicles, based on survivor numbers, giving a market index capitalization of more than £4 billion ($6.6 billion).

The MBCI is one of five indices created by The Historic Automobile Group International. The others are: the HAGI TOP index, a representative measure of 50 rare classic cars; the HAGI F historic Ferrari index; the HAGI-P historic Porsche index; and the HAGI EX-P & F index, which provides a measure excluding the Porsche and Ferrari components. Indices have been live for more than four years.

IN EXHIBITION: Ferrari Supercar: Technology. Design. Myth.

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Maranello, 8th March 2013 – Today saw the official inauguration at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello of the “Ferrari Supercar. Technology. Design. Myth” exhibition which includes the new LaFerrari, unveiled just a couple of days ago at the Geneva Motor Show, as well as all of the other limited edition special series cars that helped establish the Prancing Horse legend.

Opened by Chairman Luca di Montezemolo, “Ferrari Supercar. Technology. Design. Myth” retraces the story of all of the limited edition special series models built by Ferrari, starting with the 250 GTO, including an example of the 1964 version, and continuing with the 1984 GTO, the F40, the F50 and the Enzo, all the way up to the new model which has been named the LaFerrari as it epitomises the sweeping excellence for which the Maranello marque is renowned.

Parallel to the limited edition road cars will be the Formula 1 cars that inspired Ferrari’s design in various eras, as well as special track and competition-oriented models, such as the GTO Evoluzione, the F40 Competizione, the 599XX and the FXX.

A large section of the exhibition is devoted to the development of the LaFerrari, illustrating both its technical content and styling. The entire process from the car’s initial conception to the approval of the final car is traced, in fact, and visitors also have the opportunity to see two full-scale models in addition to the various stages the car went through in its design and development.

Information

The exhibition runs until September 30th. The Museum is open to the public between the hours of 9.30 and 18.00 until May 1st after which date it closes at 19.00. Tickets can be booked online at www.museoferrari.com, as can guided tours at museo@ferrari.com.

Special evenings at the Museum can also be booked by private and corporate groups on request at: eventimuseo@ferrari.com. The Skira publisher has created a large and wonderfully rich catalogue especially for the exhibition. It is on sale in the Museum in

Maranello.

THE LIMITED EDITION SPECIAL SERIES CARS

250 GTO

Probably the most famous of all Ferrari cars, the 250 GTO was built from 1962 to 1964.

With just 36 vehicles produced – all of which are still extant – the 250 GTO ruled on the track and on the road, winning the GT Manufacturers’ International Championship three years in a row. GTO stands for the category it raced in: in order to compete, a minimum of

100 vehicles had to be built in a year. When the Federation granted homologation as an evolution of the short-wheelbase 250 GT, it automatically became the 250 GTO, i.e., the homologated GT (GT Omologata).

It proved to be invincible with its 2953 cc V12, an evolution of the Colombo engine. It featured 300 hp, high torque even at low rpm and a 5-speed transmission, which represented a major innovation for the period. Another two key factors that contributed to the success of the 250 GTO was its dry weight of just 880 kg, and its superior agility.

Today its value has rocketed to over $20 million.

GTO

Designed for “Group B” races, the GTO project dates back to 1983. The 308 was used as the starting point for the project. The steel chassis was reinforced and work was done on thewheelbase, tracks and wheel size. A radical approach was taken for the twin-turbo V8 engine, with two heat exchangers, just like a F1 car, and the aerodynamics were improved by adding large spoilers. The car was unveiled in 1984 as a road-going vehicle as, in themeantime, the FIA had abandoned Group B racing. It was a resounding success, and instead of the planned 200 vehicles, production reached 272 units (which is nonetheless a small volume). This makes it rare and valuable today.

F40

The unexpected success of the GTO revealed the huge potential for on-road cars built using avant-garde technologies developed for racing. Unveiled at the 1987 Frankfurt Motor Show, the car’s minimalist passenger compartment features only what is strictly needed for driving.

The chassis is made from steel incorporating composite materials and Kevlar. Characterised by the large rear spoiler, the bodywork is made from composite materials. The 478 hp twinturbo engine – 80 hp more than the GTO – allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, with a maximum speed of 324 km/h – simply phenomenal for the time. Although it was announced that only 400 vehicles would be produced, the success was so overwhelming that Ferrari had to build 1315 cars over five years!

F50

The 50 in the name of this model represents the 50th anniversary of Ferrari, which fell in 1997. The model was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 1995 and was designed at the same time as the last Ferrari sport prototype to be built in Maranello: the 333 SP. The inspiration for this new milestone in Ferrari technology came once again from the world of F1: a perfect combination of a carbon-fibre bodyshell and a V12 engine, just like a singleseater. In addition, just like a F1 car, the chassis integrated the engine as a stressed member. The vehicle’s design was extremely original for the time, and features a removable hardtop that can be lodged on board. With only 349 vehicles produced, the F50 is much sought-after by collectors.

Enzo Ferrari

The Enzo dates back to the years of consecutive victories in the Drivers’ and Constructors’ F1 World Championships. It was 2002, and the name of the new model served as a promise of excellence. Even the styling was inspired by F1 and the Enzo was the first road car with a manettino selector on the steering wheel to adjust the handling depending on the use of the car and road conditions. The lightweight and compact V12 engine and the vehicle dynamics systems react to inputs from the manettino, just like on the single-seaters. The system was developed from the technique used by Schumacher to change the car setup in every bend, requiring commands capable of adjusting car setup several times during the same lap. This is how the modern F1 steering wheel and the manettino, as the team and driver called it, were developed.

THE OTHER CARS IN THE EXHIBITION

599XX Evo

The 599 is not officially a supercar, but the XX version definitely belongs to this elite category, for both technical and symbolic reasons. Ferrari has an extraordinary tradition of creating high-performance front-engine vehicles. The 250 GTO is the most significant of these, but it is not the only one. It is interesting to see two berlinettas – both so technologically advanced and with outstanding track performance – side by side, separated by 50 years. At its debut, the 599XX broke the lap record on the famous and challenging Nordschleife, the 22.8 km version of the Nürgburgring track.

Technically speaking, the 599XX is an example of excellence, featuring a 730 hp aspirated V12 engine, with exceptional handling thanks to the weight distribution – 47% on the front and 53% on the rear – and to the sophisticated electronic dynamic controls system. The aerodynamic shape enhanced by the mobile rear spoiler contributes to achieving this outstanding performance. It was built specifically for track use.

GTO Evoluzione

The extraordinary commercial success enjoyed by the GTO instantly revealed to Ferrari the huge opportunities afforded by placing an extremely sporty road car at its clients’ disposal. This planted the seed for the concept of the F40, the GTO Evoluzione which, however, never actually raced and remained a development model.

F40 Competizione

The F40’s design and characteristics absolutely begged for a track version to be developed. The Ferrari importers that traditionally took part in endurance racing found the answer to their dreams in the evolution mooted by specialist Michelotto which had already made important contributions on the racing development of the likes of the 308 GTB, for instance. The car first saw the light of day in 1989 but its development continued until the end of the1990s yielding record results.

FXX

Ferrari launched a uniquely innovative technical collaboration programme for its most loyal and enthusiastic clients centring around the prototype FXX. The latter car was the most advanced GT ever created by Maranello and its mission was to involve the marque’s most valued owners as Client-Test Drivers.

ON THE BLOCK: Sir Elton John’s Ferrari 512 TR at Coy’s Spring Classics

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A Ferrari Testarossa formerly owned by Sir Elton John with only 2,100 miles on the clock is to be sold by international auction house COYS at their Spring Classics sale in London, next week.

The 512 Testarossa, which was purchased new by Sir Elton John, is one of 40 cars that will go under the hammer at the Royal Horticultural Society, Lindley Hall, on Tuesday March 12th.

The car only covered a remarkable 1812 miles while in his ownership but was always subject to an annual service.

It is well known that Elton drove all 28 of the cars in his collection on a regular basis, and gave rides to many other dignitaries and celebrities before they were auctioned off by Christie’s in 2001. The 512 on offer here sold for £98,000 at the time and passed to its current owner.

Having covered a mere 2,100 miles from new, this 512 TR is still reported to be in pristine condition. Finished in the stunning Rosso Corsa with complementary beige interior, it comes with a complete service history and a letter of ownership authenticity from Sir Elton. Most recently this year it has been serviced at Meridian Ferrari – where it has had its cambelts replaced. This Ferrari is estimated at £90,000- £110,000.

Chris Routledge, the Managing Director of COYS said: “This must be the lowest mileage 512 TR available on the market today, with exceptional ownership provenance. With Ferrari prices continuing to rise, this car offers the opportunity for a real blue chip investment. Unique.”

The sale will also feature two Ferrari Dino’s, arguably one of the most beautiful Ferraris built to date. The first example is a 1969 Ferrari Dino 206 GT, one of only 152 models produced, which was once owned by Canadian film director David Cronenberg and is estimated at £180,000 to £210,000. The second model is a 1974 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS in the distinctive “French racing blue”, estimated at £170,000 to £180,000. This Ferraris are becoming one of the most sought after examples of this marque and would be a sensible investment for the future.

Another important collectors’ car going under the hammer includes a rare and exclusive 1974 E-Type Commemorative, one of the fifty special roadsters built to mark the end of the model’s production in 1974. This iconic Jaguar, with only 25,950 miles from new, is estimated at £115,000 to £135,000 and would be an unrepeatable opportunity to become a member of the most exclusive E-type club.

Additionally, in the year of the 100th anniversary of the marque, the auction will feature a 1975 Aston Martin V8 estimated at £55,000 to £65,000. The car is finished in metallic blue with a blue hide interior and has been held in pristine, original and un-molested condition throughout. It even comes with an extensive service history and MoT certificates dating back to 1984.

COYS ‘Spring Classics’ auction will also include a general mix of pre and post war sports and touring cars. Further details will be published on the website – www.coys.co.uk.

IN TECH: Apple and Ferrari Collaborate on Siri Eyes Free Voice Command Technology

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Maranello, 7 March 2013 – Apple and Ferrari are two top brands, known worldwide beyond their fields. Now they started working together on products. The first result of this collaboration debuted at the Geneva Car Show. The FF, the first Ferrari with 4-wheel-drive, as of today offers voice command to the infotainment system through Siri Eyes Free. Furthermore, passengers in the rear seats of the FF can enjoy films, play the latest video games or navigate on the Internet, thanks to two iPad Mini units integrated in each backrest. When Apple Senior Vice President of Internet Software and Service Eddy Cue joined Ferrari’s board of directors last November, Chairman Luca di Montezemolo said that his experience would become very useful: We’ve now seen the first results in Geneva.

IN HISTORICS: Silverstone Classic Honours 50 Years of Porsche 911

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It’s 50 years since the iconic Porsche 911 was first introduced to the public at the 1963 Frankfurt Motor Show and this year’s Silverstone Classic will pay homage to the evergreen sportscar’s golden anniversary with a very fitting on-track tribute.

On Sunday 28 July a magnificent parade of 911 Porsche 911s will take to the full Silverstone Grand Prix circuit to mark this historic milestone in the life of what’s unquestionably one of the world’s most celebrated, revered and distinguished automotive creations of all times. Over the ages more than 820,000 have been built making the 911 the world’s most successful sportscar.

The event organisers are working closely with the Porsche Club GB to ensure this very special parade highlights five decades of glorious 911 heritage and evolution by including the most famous models from past and present generations including many legendary Carrera, RS, RSR, GT, Speedster, Targa and Turbo variants. To this day the idolised 911 is also one of the most popular and victorious competition cars ever created and the dazzling on-track pageant will also feature a plethora of winners from both racing and rallying.

Peter Bull, Vice Chairman of Porsche Club GB said: “Every member of the Club is so proud of the Porsche marque and the 911 is something that we all revere in all its forms and age. We are delighted to be able to showcase the 911 in this way and are especially grateful for the Silverstone Classic to allow this parade to go ahead. It’s a very special year indeed!”

Nick Hine, Chairman of Porsche Club GB added: “Achieving 911, Porsche 911s on track at Silverstone all at the same time, initially seemed an ambitious target. However, there has been strong interest from 911 owners from all over the world and we already have nearly 400 confirmed participants. Fifty years of 911 evolution, combined with famous drivers from Porsche’s illustrious racing history taking part, mean that the fight for pole position at Silverstone, has never been quite so strong!”

This summer’s spectacular 911 x 911 parade – which will be raising much needed funds for the Hope for Tomorrow cancer charity – is the latest in a succession of glittering circuit processions staged alongside the huge, action-packed race programme at recent Silverstone Classics. In 2010 a similar 50th anniversary parade of 767 E-Type Jaguars established a new Guinness World Record. Last year in was the turn of Ferrari when an unprecedented gathering of 60 scarlet F40s took to the track in a memorable tribute marking 25 years of the world’s first 200mph supercar.

“Jaguar, Ferrari and now Porsche… it’s hard to think of three more illustrious or historic motoring marques all celebrating key milestones at the Silverstone Classic,” enthused Nick Wigley, Event Director. “Importantly these amazing parades allow owners and enthusiasts to join the party and play their very own part in such special festivities. It’s a fantastic opportunity that I’m sure no one lucky enough to have a 911 will want to miss.”

Those wanting to participate should contact the Porsche Club GB office either on 01608 652911 or via email: silverstone911@porscheclubgb.com.

Tickets for the Silverstone Classic must be purchased in advance and ‘Early Bird’ discounts are available to those booking before the end of March. Continuing the event’s hugely popular and widely acclaimed ‘access all areas’ policy, all tickets include free entrance to racing paddocks, trackside grandstands and live music concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings. Prices for adults start from just £30 (plus fees) with considerable savings on offer for festival-goers spending the full action-packed weekend at Silverstone, as well as special packages for car clubs.

Full details are available on the official www.silverstoneclassic.com website.

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