It’s not like the folks at 993-era Porsche 911 remasterers Guntherwerks dont’ have enough on their plate. Their restored and upgraded take on the 993 has definitely established a large following in the world of commissioned and upgraded 911 builds, though they’ve been playing with the idea of expanding on that for a while.
A quick check on our part shows the earliest we find them talking about it is a social media teaser on Facebook back in July of 2019. Maybe they were bored and killing time during the pandemic.
Fast forward to August of 2023 and a full car image was reportedly shared by Guntherwerks on Instagram and circulated amongst the press. It included some styling changes from the 2019 rendering, but it looked like a full car and suggested they hadn’t forgotten about the project.
That was 2023, then… just today, something caught our eye in our stories. It seems Gutherwerks has shared another image, this time a drawing showing a further evolved design and a name “INCIGNIA” with the tag-line “BMW E30 M3 Remastered and Reborn by Gunther Werks”.
We look forward to sharing more information when it becomes available.
The idea of gear goes hand in hand with car enthusiasm, whether that’s your run-of-the-mill car or something truly tailored. As we explore the world in and around tailored builds, factory specials and remasters of the automotive world, we’re beginning to add some other facets of the experience. So, we’re using this week’s opening of the annual Nüremberg Toy Fair to launch our own coverage of this space, beginning with a few scale models by OttOmobile of unique special editions from some of our favorite car marques.
The Toy Fair in Nüremberg is a popular place for toy manufacturers of all types to show their upcoming product. In our opinion, chief among those companies are the model car manufacturers who tend to show up in force. Like a new car auto industry show in the halcyon days of such events, Nüremberg plays host to first reveals of new car models, even if they are models of classic cars and seen in miniature scale.
OttOmobile has been busy making several social posts from the Toy Fair. Closely inspect shots from their booth and you can see a number of interesting cars coming, specifically in 1:18 and larger 1:12 scales that are their specialty. And while all of those are interesting to see depending on your favorite brands, we take particular interest in the specials. In this case, we’re talking special editions. Here are a few of our favorite from what they’ve shared.
1.) 1:18 Scale 2001 BMW M3 GTR Strassenversion (type E46) in Titan Silver Metallic 354
BMW M refers to the M3 GTR Strassenversion as the “unicorn” among the E46 range. About as racecar-for-the-road as you might get from the factory, the car had no air conditioning, no radio nor rear seat. What it did have, unlike other E46s, was a V8. At the time, BMW had planned a V8 version of the M3 GTR racecar to compete in sportscar racing, but was told they couldn’t because the engine didn’t exist in the roadgoing M3 range. That effectively made the car a prototype… unless BMW homologated a production car on which to base it.
The result is what you see here, a road car using a version of the the P60B40 racing engine tuned to 350 horsepower and 365 Newton meters at 5,000 rpm. The 4-liter mill also shared dry sump lubrication with the race version, though the racecar’s sequential transmission was swapped for a 6-speed manual with two-disc motorsport clutch and variable limited slip differential. All this helped establish the M3 GTR as more worthy of the “racecar-for-the-road” claim we make above, and the icing on the cake is that the car’s V8 engine was never used in any other road car.
In the end, BMW produced just ten M3 GTRs, with each of them painted Titan Silver Metallic like the model you see here. That was a short hurdle for BMW, making the car possible and the race version able to compete… at least temporarily. Competitors weren’t happy, lobbying for a more stringent change to 100 units. Unable or unwilling to comply, the M3 GTR racecar was retired from racing.
2.) 1:18 Scale 1995 Volkswagen Golf Cooler concept (Mk3) in Salsa Green
At the height of Volkswagen’s so-called “Mk3” era, Wolfsburg released a trim line of cars in eye-catching colors and called them “Color concept”. Centering around several unique paint colors (Jazz Blue Pearl Effect, Flash Red, Diamond Black Pearl Effect, Yellow and Salsa Green like you see here), the trim was available across both a vast spectrum of VW’s engine offerings and also across its Golf range including Golf, Golf Cabrio and Golf Estate. The kit included interior with bold matching color segmentation on the leather seats, the one-piece shift knob and boot, on the door cards, e-brake handle and even the VW emblem on the steering wheel.
You’d be forgiven for missing Diamond Black examples, recognizable only by their badges and relatively distinct wheels. Red or yellow, colors at least, are also somewhat ubiquitous, and Jazz Blue (believed to be the same formula as Audi’s Nogaro Blue) is still pretty common in today’s automotive market and amongst factory tailors. Salsa Green though, that’s a different story. Salsa Green is already striking and remains highly unique, so the choice to manufacture the model in that color is one we applaud.
Given this was largely a trim package, Color concept cars are not especially rare… at least in Europe where they were sold. These cars never came to North America via Volkswagen, so the only way you’ll find one here is to import one or find someone who has.
3.) 1:18 Scale 2003 Subaru Impreza WRX STi WR1 Petter Solberg Edition (S203) in
The S203-generation WRX STi was developed with input from Subaru factory rally team driver Petter Solberg. Celebrating Solberg’s 2023 World Rally Championship Driver’s Title of that year was this very rare special edition with 315 bhp 2.0-liter turbocharged EJ20 flat four boxer engine and paired to a 6-speed manual transmission. Part of this car’s kit was the Prodrive Performance Package, Prodrive exhaust, turbo timer and upgraded ECU. It also got a black interior, unique gear knob, commemorative dash plaque, the DRiver’s Control Center Differential (DCCD) and Prodrive-developed springs and bump stops with 25mm lower ride height. It was sold in only two colors – World Rally Blue and this model’s Ice Blue Metallic. Only 500 examples were produced worldwide. None were sold in North America, meaning you’ll have to wait until 2028 until you can import one legally.
THE LEGEND… REDEFINED With 2025 marking the 40th anniversary of the light duty Prado’s introduction into Toyota’s global Land Cruiser range, world-renowned extreme mobility vehicle specialists, Arctic Trucks (AT) are poised to redefine ‘cool and capable’ once again with the reveal of their highly anticipated Land Cruiser 250 / Prado AT37.
Originally founded in 1990 as a special vehicles division of Toyota, the AT37 marks the latest chapter in Arctic Trucks’ long-standing association with the leading Japanese automaker’s legendary Land Cruiser, which remains an integral part of AT’s unparalleled tally of world records and firsts in the harshest environments on earth.
Primarily developed between Arctic Trucks’ International (Iceland) and UK divisions, together with Toyota Africa distributor, CFAO, the Land Cruiser 250 / Prado AT37 combines Iceland’s deep heritage in off-road vehicle development with world-class expertise from the UK’s ‘Motorsport Valley’, the global centre of motorsport design, development and engineering, and a hub of cutting-edge automotive innovation.
Arctic Trucks International R&D Manager, Freyr Þórsson, said: “Developing this project in the heart of Motorsport Valley has allowed us to have frequent and direct face-to-face communications with multiple suppliers, and the resulting hands-on development has generated greatly improved performance.” Arctic Trucks UK Managing Director, Peter Smith, added: “This collaboration of teams across the Arctic Trucks group has resulted in a vehicle that is truly fit for use in any market. Combining our three decades of off-road expertise with technology and innovation from the UK supply chain has achieved outstanding results and reaffirms our ongoing commitment to delivering complete vehicle solutions for both work and play.”
Aligned with OEM and government standards of fit, finish and functionality, the visually imposing AT37 blends a finely tuned balance of confidence inspiring on-road handling, with superior clearance, comfort, control and mobility over all terrains. From rocky technical trails to soft snow, sand and everything in between, the AT37 achieves tracked vehicle capability with car-like drivability. #ExploreWithoutLimits and #DriveYOURadventure in the new Land Cruiser 250 / Prado AT37.
THE LAND CRUISER 250 / PRADO AT37 Drawing from over 35 years of unparalleled operational experience in our planet’s harshest environments, the Arctic Trucks Toyota Land Cruiser 250 / Prado AT37 is a completely re-engineered yet perfectly daily drivable high-mobility vehicle that commands attention wherever it goes.
Taking the name from its 37” rubber, the AT37 will be specified in most markets with a choice of either BFGoodrich’s new All-Terrain T/A KO3 or Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 tyres, for more grip, toughness and wear performance across a wide range of conditions. These are wrapped around Arctic Trucks’ new retro-inspired ‘Heritage’ forged alloy wheels, which offer better strength to weight and feature a unique dual-valve design for greater flexibility to monitor and modulate tyre pressures.
Improved ‘suspension effect’ from the AT37’s taller, wider tyres is combined with a bespoke 2-way adjustable performance suspension system, providing increased travel and 40mm of lift. Developed in partnership with Dakar-winning specialists, R53 Suspension, large diameter monotube dampers feature high tensile hard chrome steel shafts, enhanced sealing, matched springs and hydraulic bump stops. Low friction, nano-enhanced oil flow from external reservoirs is further enhanced by R53’s OptiFlow technology, maintaining peak performance during the most mundane or exceptional of journeys.
To accommodate this significant increase in tyre size, Arctic Trucks have remained true to form by completely reprofiling the Land Cruiser’s frame, body, bodywork and drivetrain to balance maximum wheel/tyre and ground clearance with low centre of gravity. Combined with a wider track and extended wheelbase, this provides surprisingly comfortable, composed and direct on-road performance, while allowing the AT37 to venture with ease where others can’t.
Sharing unique design language with their extreme expedition vehicles, Arctic Trucks’ signature widebody flares incorporate a tyre pressure guide / central tyre inflation system connection recess in all four corners, while creating coverage, clearance and an unmistakable appearance that is noticed everywhere. Newly developed and contoured AT mud guards seamlessly integrate with the Land Cruiser AT37’s extended bodywork, providing ample protection during off-grid adventures.
Arctic Trucks’ usual attention to detail doesn’t stop there. Their robust extended profile side steps feature an extruded aluminium profile, high-grip rubberised inserts and durable end caps, for ease of replacement. These are complemented inside and out by distinctive Arctic Trucks black and lava badging and detailing throughout the bodywork, wheels and interior, which features unique gear selector and dash trims, together with premium AT interior mats and sill plates.
Concluding at the rear, the discrete 2” multifunction receiver hitch, common to most Arctic Trucks versions, enables quick, easy fitment of tow balls, winches, steps, seats, gear carriers, barbeques and much more; further maximising the AT37’s adaptability for the most leisurely or extreme situations.
As an official Toyota partner in multiple regions, Arctic Trucks will launch the Land Cruiser 250 / Prado AT37 from Q2 2025 as an official dealership-supplied version or direct customer conversion in Europe, North America, the Middle East and Africa. Thomas Cogez, TOYOTA Sales and Marketing Director, from CFAO (Africa) said: “We are excited to announce our collaboration between CFAO TOYOTA and Arctic Trucks on this innovative new Land Cruiser Prado AT37. By combining TOYOTA’s world-renowned engineering excellence with Arctic Trucks’ expertise in creating extreme off-road vehicles, we aim to deliver a next-level driving experience that will redefine performance and durability in challenging African terrains. Together, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of adventure and reliability, ensuring the Land Cruiser Prado and AT37 edition continues to lead the way in off-road capability.”
SPECIFICATION* The Land Cruiser 250 / Prado AT37 is compatible with all engine/transmission options and trim levels, including both the passenger and commercial variants, and features:
Extensive Arctic Trucks re-engineering to frame, body, bodywork and more
10-piece Arctic Trucks widebody package, featuring recessed AT tyre pressure detail (body colour & textured black)
Distinctive Arctic Trucks AT37 black & lava badging and detailing package (fender flares, doors, side steps, tailgate, wheels, mud guards, gear selector, dash binnacle, sill plates, interior mats, receiver cover)
Arctic Trucks locking wheel nuts
Arctic Trucks torque wrench
Unique Arctic Trucks Land Cruiser 250 / Prado AT37 Certificate of Authenticity
*Specification, pricing, weights and dimensions may vary between regions
ABOUT ARCTIC TRUCKS Arctic Trucks was founded in 1990 as a specialist division of Toyota in Iceland – long known as the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’ due to its rugged and beautiful landscape of extremes; from glacial to volcanic and everything in between. Our homeland is truly a world-class proving ground.
Over more than three decades Arctic Trucks have forged an unparalleled level of expertise in the re-engineering and conversion of four-wheel drive vehicles, setting a benchmark for quality, durability and reliability in the most remote and inhospitable environments on earth.
Arctic Trucks vehicles have achieved multiple world records and firsts, including being the first vehicles to reach the Magnetic North Pole (for Top Gear’s iconic 2007 ‘Polar Special’), the fastest overland journey to South Pole, longest distance expedition in Polar history, first expedition to drive through all 7 continents, first Antarctic crossing by passenger vehicle and the first wheeled vehicle in history to travel from the Magnetic North to the South Pole (successfully completed in December 2023).
Setting numerous time and distance benchmarks along the way, Arctic Trucks have also dramatically increased polar travel efficiencies; enabling personnel to remain ‘in field’ for far longer than previously, without need for resupply.
Drawing from this unrivalled expedition experience and developed to global automotive OEM and government standards, Arctic Trucks versions of some of the most popular 4×4 platforms are also sold officially through automotive dealerships worldwide. With over 20,000 vehicles sold to-date, they are equipped to deliver a finely tuned balance of confidence-inspiring handling and superior comfort, control and mobility, both on-and off-road; resulting in exciting, daily driveable vehicles which are truly ‘cool and capable’ over all terrains.
Staying true to its heritage of extremes, Arctic Trucks is today active in multiple global markets, from the Polar regions to the deserts of Africa and the Middle East – becoming world-renowned as THE benchmark for extreme off-road vehicles in any environment.
Whether for leisure or professional purposes, Arctic Trucks enable owners and operators to safely, successfully and efficiently ‘Explore Without Limits’, whatever the challenge.
Fourth-generation bespoke GTC auctioned at 2025 Naples Winter Wine Festival (NWWF) benefitting the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF)
Auction lot 45 raised $1.7M in 2025, the highest lot of the day
Auction winner to take delivery of Bentley’s latest open top grand tourer and join exclusive 2025 Monterey Car Week program
GTC sports unique Damson exterior with bespoke Mulliner interior of White and Damson hides with Silver Piping
Specification curated by Mulliner with Bentley Naples for the auction
The NWWF, in its 25th anniversary year, resulted in the most successful auction ever raising more than $34M for the NCEF
[source: Bentley]
Naples, FL – The first bespoke new Continental GTC Speed was auctioned for charity at this year’s Naples Winter Wine Festival. Bentley’s latest pinnacle open top grand tourer took part in the Naples Winter Wine Festival (NWWF), raising $1.7M to support at-risk and underprivileged children in Collier County. This brings the total amount raised at the 2025 NWWF to over $34 million, resulting in the most successful auction to date for its 25th anniversary year.
The Bentley Naples auction lot included two core areas: delivery of a unique Continental GTC Speed with Mulliner specification crafted specifically designed for the Naples Winter Wine Festival and an exclusive one-off package and access to Bentley’s largest event of the year, Monterey Car Week, taking place in August 2025.
The GTC features a striking Damson exterior paint paired with a Dark Grey Metallic fabric roof, while the Light Grey interior roof complements the White main hide and Damson secondary hide, accented with silver seat piping. Adding to its exclusivity are personalized Naples Winter Wine Festival treadplates, blackline and touring specifications, LED welcome lights, and a Moonbeam-painted pinstripe around the exterior. The GTC also features a unique piano white and Damson-painted veneer, a specification exclusive to Mulliner, making this vehicle truly one of a kind.
This year, for the first time, Bentley auctioned its most powerful engine offering, the Ultra Performance Plug-In Hybrid V8, which produces 771 horsepower, over 100 more than the previous version, and can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 3.2 seconds.
In addition to the new Continental GTC, the winners will experience Bentley’s exclusive Monterey Car Week 2025 program in August, the brand’s most significant activation of the year. The package includes four nights of luxury accommodations at The Inn at Spanish Bay, two tickets to Bentley’s VIP Terrace during The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, and two VIP tickets to the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, complete with access to The Bench hospitality suite at The Lodge, offering unparalleled views of the prestigious awards. Winners will also receive an exclusive invitation to Bentley’s Beach Dinner at Seal Rock Beach and access to Bentley’s Signature Party at the Beach and Tennis Club.
“Bentley Motors is pleased to support Bentley Naples as we see through another successful auction at the Naples Winter Wine Festival continuing its charitable efforts,” said Jun Watanabe, Senior Director, Sales and Operations at Bentley Americas. “Contributing to the community and fostering a sense of purpose are integral to our broader understanding of sustainability, paving the way for future generations to thrive.”
As part of Bentley’s commitment to philanthropy, the proceeds from the auction benefited the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF), which works to improve the lives of underprivileged children in Collier County, Florida. The Naples Winter Wine Festival, now in its 25th year, is celebrated for its exceptional auction lots and its dedication to community impact, having raised more than $336 million since its inception.
“We have been honored to be involved with the Naples Winter Wine Festival Auction since 2006 and it’s transformative work the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF),” said Jason Reidel, Managing Partner of Bentley Naples. “Each year, together with Bentley Motors Inc we are grateful for the opportunity to play a role in supporting this incredible mission and making a meaningful difference in our special Southwest Florida community.”
“We are sincerely grateful to Bentley for allowing us to showcase this phenomenal automobile in our 25th annual Naples Winter Wine Festival live auction,” said Bill Beynon, Team 25 Co-Chairs. “Their extraordinary support this year and in the past several years has enabled us to raise much needed funds for essential programs that will improve the lives of underprivileged and at-risk children in our community.”
About Naples Winter Wine Festival The Naples Winter Wine Festival (NWWF), one of the world’s most prestigious charity wine auctions, offers a weekend of unforgettable memories. Guests enjoy world-class food and wine during intimate dinners in elegant, private homes and other landmark settings throughout Naples and are invited to bid on once-in-a-lifetime travel and wine experiences during an electrifying live auction. Since its inaugural event in 2001, the NWWF has raised more than $336 million, making a profound difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of children in Collier County.
What: 1989 Porsche 911 Carrera Reimagined by Singer Color: Green Blood Dark (unknown) Chassis #: WP0AB0960KS450700 Mileage: undisclosed miles Estimated Price: No Estimate CarFax: N/A Window Sticker: N/A Location: Barrett Jackson Scottsdale 2025, Scottsdale, AZ Dealer listing:Link
Why we love it:
A dark green Classic Services restoration from Singer Vehicle Design is always a winner in our book, so the 911 you see here that’s part of Barrett Jackson’s upcoming Scottsdale 2025 auction is definitely worth a closer look and a healthy amount of lust.
We have a couple of questions about this Singer that we’d want to know and don’t seem to see in the listing. For starters, the listing isn’t specific whether it’s a Carrera 2 or all-wheel drive Carrera 4, but we’re deducing it’s the latter? Why, though both versions were sold in the European market, America only got the Carrera 4 in 1989. And while importing Euro market C2s are an “affordable” way into the rear-wheel drive 964 club, we think this is a U.S. car given the Barrett Jackson listing description does mention some damage activity in the CarFax report from 2014, nine years before the 2023 Singer reimagining took place. Even if it was a Carrera 4 from the factory, we suppose it could also have been converted to rear-wheel drive. Ultimately, that’s worth checking.
Another question we have is the name of the Commission. It seems like each Singer tends to take an identity of its own thanks to a mix of Commission nomenclature or simple nicknames. We’re seeing none in this listing, and for the new owner or the curiosity of Singer aficionados, this would be good to know.
The color is listed as Green Blood Dark, which isn’t a color we’re familiar with. In photos, it looks darker than a Porsche Irish Green yet lighter than Porsche Brewster Green. Frankly, it doesn’t appear far from Audi Goodwood Green, but ultimately that’s hard to tell from simply seeing photos.
Want more details on the car? We’ll print Barrett Jackson’s lot description below. Check out their website linked above should you want more details, photos or information on how to bid on the car.
Details
[source: Barrett Jackson]
This 1989 Porsche 911 Carrera Reimagined by Singer is powered by a 4.0-liter engine built by Ed Pink and features high-flow catalytic converters. The engine is tuned by an Emtron ECU and features a ceramic inlet plenum to optimize airflow. The exhaust system includes a titanium muffler for weight reduction. This car’s drivetrain includes a 6-speed manual transmission. The body is equipped with a carbon-fiber roof for reduced weight. It has an external center-fill fuel system with a safety cell, and an external oil fill system. The suspension is an Öhlins Sport adjustable system, configured for canyon road use with 2-way adjustability. The braking system includes Brembo calipers with carbon-ceramic rotors. Michelin PS4S tires are mounted. Externally, this Porsche is finished in a custom Green Blood Dark paint with full clear paint protection film, and it also features nickel-plated bumperettes, raised decklid lettering and Singer script badging, all finished in 24-karat gold. The wheels are RS style, with nickel centers and black backgrounds, mounted with open lug nuts. The interior is trimmed with premium leather, including baseball glove-style Connolly Monza leather. The front seats are carbon bucket seats designed for reduced weight and improved support.
The cabin features black leather for the dash, roll tops, knee pads and pillars, with deviating color stitching. The steering wheel is a Prototipo with a bespoke finish, wrapped in black leather. A Piano Black shift knob is installed, and the carpeted floor mats are trimmed with square-weave in the body color. The gauge cluster is styled after early 911 models, with black faces, green markers and nickel trim. This car is also equipped with a PCRN stereo system with Apple CarPlay, as well as air conditioning. Additionally, the car includes a CTEK external battery charging solution under the front bumper and keyless entry with two custom Singer key fobs finished in Piano Black anodize. CARFAX shows damage report on 03/31/2014: Damage reported, minor damage to left rear and rear; Damage report on 05/10/2014: Damage repairs performed, repairs to left rear and rear.
C-Class six-cylinder saloon with designo green metallic paintwork
The C 280 is the top model of the 202 series in its debut year 1993
Mercedes-Benz has offered a wide variety of factory paint finishes since the 1950s
[source: Mercedes-Benz]
“Close-up” – the name of this series from the Mercedes-Benz Museum says it all. Each instalment tells a surprising, exciting or behind-the-scenes story, illuminating details of a vehicle, an exhibit or an architectural or design feature. In the spotlight this time: the Mercedes-Benz C 280 from 1996 in Collection Room 5: Gallery of Everyday Heroes.
No. 1/2025: Mercedes-Benz C 280 (W 202)
A bold statement: This Mercedes-Benz C 280 from the 202 model series certainly attracts attention. All the body surfaces, front and rear aprons, trim strips and exterior mirrors of the sporty saloon are painted in intense designo green metallic, which has the Mercedes-Benz colour code 252. The C-Class with its 2.8-litre six-cylinder engine radiates springtime verve and energy all year round. Museum visitors can see this for themselves in Collection Room 5.
Top model: The first generation of the C-Class made its debut in May 1993. At that time the C 280 was the top model in the 202 model series. Its six-cylinder in-line engine delivered 142 kW (193 hp), with an automatic transmission transferring the power to the road. The C 36 AMG became top model of the series in September 1993.
Sporty highlights: The dynamic appearance of the C 280 on display is emphasised by the “Sport” design and equipment line. This includes, for example, a suspension lowered by 25 millimetres, a firmer suspension set-up and wide-base tyres as standard, as well as light-alloy wheels in AMG design on the vehicle on display. From 1993, Mercedes-Benz offered three equipment lines in the compact class in addition to the classic equipment (later “Classic”): “Esprit”, “Elegance” and “Sport”.
Modern saddlery: The theme colour green is continued in the designo interior. Both the seats and the door panelling play with the contrast between central green elements and black sides. With this customised design, Mercedes-Benz demonstrates the saddler’s art with a flair for sporty aesthetics. Using the rear seat unit as an example, the various rectangular, green components of the seat, backrest and head restraint together form a vertical stripe – as if dynamically applied with a brush on the canvas of a modern work of art.
Individual appeal: The designo paintwork of the C 280 dating from 1996 and displayed in the Mercedes-Benz Museum is a testament to its time. One year earlier, in 1995, the first Mercedes-Benz designo consulting centre opened in the customer centre at the Sindelfingen plant. Mercedes-Benz experts were on hand to discuss and plan their individual dream cars with customers. Nowadays the MANUFAKTUR individualisation range across all model series offers exclusive equipment for the exterior and interior – including MANUFAKTUR paint finishes. In December 2024, Mercedes-Benz opened the new MANUFAKTUR Studio in the heart of the Sindelfingen plant. Here, customers can experience first-hand how their vehicle is customised according to their personal wishes with attention to detail, classic craftsmanship and state-of-the-art production technologies.
Explosion of colours: Colourful paint finishes for the high-quality individualisation of cars play an important part in the history of the brand. In the second half of the 1950s, Mercedes-Benz significantly expanded the colour range: in 1953, passenger cars bearing the star were only available in five different paint finishes as standard. By 1956, there was already an opulent colour range with 26 monotone and 23 two-tone paint finishes.
Great variety: During the model offensive of the 1990s, Mercedes-Benz once again focused on prominent colours for individual appeal. Examples among recent classics include the SLK (R 170, from 1996) in intense yellow or the CLK Coupé (C 208, from 1997) in bright blue metallic.
Special EnChroma® goggles: At the Mercedes-Benz Museum, visitors with colour vision deficiency are also able to enjoy the full beauty of colourful paint finishes like that of the C 280. Because for more than a year, the Museum has made it possible to borrow special EnChroma® goggles free of charge for the duration of a visit. These goggles filter a small part of the colour spectrum from the visible light, making it possible to see clear, vivid colours despite colour vision deficiency.
What: 1990 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary Color: Unknown Purple (unknown, repaint) Chassis: KLA12081 Mileage: 26,318 km / 16,354 mi Price: €499,000 CarFax: N/A Window Sticker: N/A Location: Rock ‘n Roll Classics, Brugge, Belgium Sales listing:Link
Why we love it:
Okay, we may be bending our own rules with so many repainted cars lately. The reality though, in the rare air of classics priced at these levels, is that previous owners can and do end up restoring and sometimes refinishing these cars. At this level, we expect most resprays to be as good or better than the factory, and when it’s a shift to an interesting color we’re more likely to give it a pass. Take for example this Countach 25th Anniversary.
For starters, it’s a very significant car within the Countach breed. Though its original color Rosso Siviglia is one of the more common Countach 25th Anniversary colors, this car itself is the last known customer-delivered Countach to come out of the Lamborghini factory. It was delivered new in Belgium and has remained there all its life. It also features the sought-after downdraft Weber carburetors, which provided an extra 30 horsepower compared to U.S. models
At some point, the color was also changed to this metallic purple hue. Researching the chassis, we’re only finding references to the original red color with beige leather interior featuring red piping. Based on the photos, we suspect the interior was also redone. It is possible that the yellow hue of the leather might be described as “beige”, but we’re also not seeing piping so that’s a guess.
Whatever the case, it’s a very interesting specimen and so we’re including it. Check out more photos and car history via the dealer’s website linked above.
This is one of our Euro market finds, so the usual caveats apply for our primarily North American readership. For Europe and other markets, we focus on cars older than 25 years, meaning a relatively easy import into the USA. This is often done by working with firms such as our friends at Orchid Euro, you can have the car purchased, transported to port, shipped to America and cleared through customs for clients seeking this sort of service.
Defender will enter Dakar and the FIA World Rally‑Raid Championship (W2RC) from 2026 with a new competition‑spec vehicle derived from Defender OCTA
Defender will compete in the ‘Stock’ category for production‑based vehicles which from 2026 will conform to new and heavily revised regulations
Competition vehicles will share Defender OCTA’s tough underpinnings and 4.4‑litre twin turbo V8 powertrain
Every competition vehicle will retain the same tough D7x body architecture, transmission and driveline layout as Defender OCTA – testament to its extreme durability and strength
[source: Land Rover]
Defender OCTA – the performance hero of the unstoppable Defender family – will form the basis of Defender’s Dakar and FIA World Rally Raid Championship competition challenger from 2026, showcasing its extreme performance credentials in the world’s toughest off‑road events.
Unstoppable all‑terrain capability and strength are at the core of every Defender and these attributes are essential for any rally‑raid competition vehicle. Selecting Defender OCTA – the fastest and most capable Defender ever made – as the basis for the British adventure brand’s rally‑raid programme was a natural choice.
Defender will run a two‑vehicle entry of competition‑spec Defenders across the full five rounds of the FIA World Rally‑Raid Championship (W2RC) under the ‘Stock’ category for production‑based vehicles, and a three‑vehicle entry in the championship’s halo event, the Dakar Rally, from 2026.
New regulations aimed at making the ‘Stock’ category significantly more competitive will be implemented by 2026, as the FIA and Dakar organisers respond to the growing popularity of high‑performance 4x4s and SUVs. It’s the increased performance these new regulations permit that make the Stock category perfect to authentically demonstrate Defender’s extreme durability and capability.
Taking on the most demanding rally‑raid event in the world represents the ultimate test of our most extreme Defender to date. We know that Dakar will be an immense challenge, but Defender OCTA combines huge performance with characteristic Defender capability and durability – the perfect foundations for what I’m confident will be a highly competitive rally‑raid vehicle. – Mark Cameron, Defender Managing Director
Defender competing in Dakar will be an incredibly exciting challenge. We had a vision for the future of production‑based vehicles in rally‑raid so it has been incredibly positive to align with the ASO, FIA and other manufacturers and work collaboratively to create the new regulations for the ‘Stock’ category. We now have the right platform to authentically demonstrate Defender’s capability in the biggest challenge in off‑road motorsport. Ahead of us is a year of detailed preparation, testing and learning to be ready for Dakar 2026. The team are already well under way and we are very much looking forward to competing in both Dakar and W2RC – the world’s toughest off‑road events. – James Barclay, JLR Motorsport Managing Director
At the core of Defender OCTA – and retained for the competition vehicles – is its robust D7x (for extreme) body architecture. Based on the lightweight aluminium monocoque construction that forms the basis of every Defender, it is three times stronger than traditional ‘body‑on‑frame’ designs and provides impressive torsional rigidity.
This inherent robustness, coupled with Defender OCTA’s bespoke geometry and kinematic design, made it the obvious choice to underpin Defender’s Dakar programme. The specially prepared competition vehicles will share Defender OCTA’s body architecture, transmission and driveline layout – as per the Dakar and W2RC’s regulations – to showcase its unstoppable capability and durability. Power will be provided by Defender OCTA’s 4.4‑litre twin turbo V8 engine.
An exhaustive Defender competition test and development programme is already well under way. It will culminate in test events and a full team launch later this year ahead of Dakar and the FIA World Rally Raid Championship in 2026.
About Defender
Defender embraces the impossible. Each member of the Defender family is purposefully designed, highly desirable and seriously durable. A modern‑day hero that respects the past but at the same time anticipates the future.
Available in 90, 110 and 130 body styles, with up to eight seats, each has a charisma of its own.
As part of our vision of modern luxury by design, Defender 110 is available as an electric hybrid.
Defender Hard Top means business, with 90 and 110 body styles for professional capability.
A beacon of liberty since 1948, Defender supports humanitarian and conservation work with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Tusk Trust.
The Defender brand is underpinned by Land Rover – a mark of trust built on 75 years of expertise in technology and world‑leading off‑road capability.
Defender is designed and engineered in the UK and sold in 121 countries. It belongs to the JLR house of brands alongside Range Rover, Discovery and Jaguar.
Modena, Italy – Maserati is thrilled to introduce Fuoriserie By, a refined collection of cars curated by select tastemakers and friends of the Trident. The exclusive collection has been designed by Japanese street culture legend and friend of the Trident Hiroshi Fujiwara, aiming to inspire car lovers to express their own bespoke vision of the ultimate Italian luxury sports car.
Following a long-standing partnership with Japanese brand Fragment, Maserati unveils two contrasting versions of its super sports car MC20 Cielo, re-imagined by creative director Hiroshi Fujiwara under the umbrella of the Trident’s Fuoriserie personalization programme. These super sports cars are more than simple objects, they become tailor-made garments to be proudly worn along the streets of the world fusing Maserati’s style and Hiroshi Fuijwara’s character.
For the very first time, Maserati has replaced its iconic Trident emblem – proudly showcased on the MC20 Cielo’s tonneau cover – with Fragment’s double lightning bolt icon. Two editions of MC20 Cielo Fuoriserie by Hiroshi Fujiwara have been conceived, one in Nero Vulcano color with Fragment’s badge in matte black and one in Bianco Audace color with Fragment’s badge in matte white. Inside, it features 6-way power sport seats in black full leather with white stitching. The unmistakable Trident is embroidered on the headrests, and the sport steering wheel is in black Alcantara with white stitching. An exclusive metal plate celebrating the collaboration between Maserati and Hiroshi Fujiwara is applied between the two headrests.
The MC20 Cielo is a one-of-a-kind car that can deliver the performance of a true super sports car, together with a holistic and immersive driving pleasure the like of which has never been seen before. Produced at the historic plant in Modena, MC20 Cielo is equipped with the powerful F1-derived V6 Nettuno engine, and it offers a perfect mix of sportiness and luxury, thanks to an innovative and unique retractable smart glass roof, which can instantly be transformed from clear to opaque at the touch of a button.
“Fuoriserie means ‘out of the ordinary’ in Italian, and our Trident’s customization program is conceived to create extraordinary experiences for our clients. Our wish here is for them to express their personality and passion by creating their very own Maserati. Just like Hiroshi, everyone can choose from a wide range of personalization features from our Fuoriserie collections or take more individual journeys to design true one-of-a-kind rolling sculptures,” said Klaus Busse, Head of Design of Maserati.
Both Fuoriserie By Hiroshi Fujiwara configurations are now available upon request on the MC20 Cielo super sports car, combining performance, sportiness and luxury to its racing soul.
Maserati S.p.A. Maserati produces a complete range of unique cars, immediately recognizable for their extraordinary personality. Thanks to their style, technology, and innately exclusive character, they delight the most discerning, demanding tastes and have always been a benchmark for the global automotive industry. A tradition of successful cars, each of them redefining what makes an Italian sports car in terms of design, performance, comfort, elegance, and safety, currently available in more than 70 markets internationally. Maserati line-up includes the Grecale, the “everyday exceptional” SUV, the GranTurismo, the iconic Italian grand tourer, and the GranCabrio, the new convertible of the Trident; all models characterized by the use of the highest quality materials and excellent technical solutions. A range equipped with 4-cylinder hybrid powertrains – available for Grecale – and V6 petrol, with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident brand. The top of the range is made up of the MC20 super sports car and the MC20 Cielo spyder, powered by the ground-breaking 100% Maserati Nettuno V6 engine, which incorporates F1-derived technologies into the power unit of a standard production car for the first time. The GranTurismo is available with both the high-performance V6 petrol engine, derived from the Nettuno, and a 100% electric version: the GranTurismo Folgore, the first car in the Modena-based brand’s history to adopt this solution. Today the full-electric range includes also the Grecale Folgore, Maserati’s first full-electric SUV, and the latest addition, GranCabrio Folgore. By 2025, all Maserati models will also be available in a full-electric version, and the entire Maserati range will run on electricity alone by 2028.
The Petersen Automotive Museum will host a charity Cruise-In on Sunday, January 26, to thank first responders and support recovery efforts from the devastating Southern California fires. In partnership with Clarios and OPTIMA Batteries, proceeds raised from the Cruise-In will benefit the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and the LAPD West Bureau. In addition, the American Red Cross will be on hand with an information booth and Blood Donation Center. The museum has partnered with an items collection organization and will accept donations for distribution to evacuation centers and families impacted by the fires.
“We’re committed to showing up for communities in need, and the Petersen Automotive Museum is part of our extended community,” said Adam Muellerweiss, Chief Sustainability Officer at Clarios. “It’s our privilege to stand with the heroic LA County first responders during these challenging times.”
“The devastation cause by the fires is heartbreaking, but we have been inspired by the dedication of first responders and the resiliency of our community. We are proud to team up with OPTIMA Batteries, Clarios and our incredible car community to support the ongoing recovery efforts,” said museum Executive Director Terry L. Karges.
To further acknowledge first responders for their heroic efforts, all LA City fire and police personnel will receive one-day free admission to the museum until April 26, 2025.
WHEN:
Sunday, January. 26, 8 a.m.- 11 a.m.
DETAILS:
The charity cruise-in is open to all vehicle makes and models.
Showcar tickets are $50 and include general admission to the museum, complimentary bagels, coffee and show car parking.
General admission tickets are $50 and include one general admission ticket to the museum, complimentary bagels, coffee and on-site parking.
The museum is halfway to its fundraising goal of $100,000 and hopes the incredible car community will help them cross the finish line
To redeem their free one-day museum admission, LA City fire and police personnel can simply show a form of work ID at the admission desk before April 26, 2025.
For all of those who wish to make a donation to the relief funds, please visit the donation page.
