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  • Market Find: Audi exclusive RS 3 in Velvet Purple in Houston

    Market Find: Audi exclusive RS 3 in Velvet Purple in Houston

    What: 2024 Audi RS 3
    Color: Velvet Purple (samtviolettperleffekt; metallic UNI; LQ87; Audi)
    VIN: unknown
    Mileage: 5,267 miles
    Price at Time of this Writing: $69,999
    CarFax: N/A
    Window Sticker: N/A
    Location: Houston, TX
    Dealer listing: Link

    Why we love it:

    Audi exclusive RS 3s are a bit more rare than some of the larger and more luxurious Audi RS models. We’re guessing you have more owners reaching to get into their first RS car, and maybe Audi exclusive paint is a bridge too far. For us though, rarity only makes it more desirable.

    So, when we see a hot tip on a lightly used Velvet Purple RS 3 coming in hot tip by Anthony Montana from Audi West Houston posting the car to the Audi Club Classifieds group before it even lands on the dealer’s website, we wanted to make sure we pass it along.

    According to Anthony’s post, the car also features Audi’s RS Technology Package, RS Sport Exhaust System, Black Optics Package and Audi Side Assist.

  • Market Find: Spikes Car Radio Plan-Z 911 GT3 RS at Porsche Clearwater

    Market Find: Spikes Car Radio Plan-Z 911 GT3 RS at Porsche Clearwater

    What: 2024 Porsche 911 GT3 RS
    Color: White a.k.a. Pure White (weiß / reinesweiß; non-metallic UNI; C9A; Porsche)
    VIN: WP0AF2A91RS272196
    Mileage: 1,141 miles
    Price at Time of this Writing: $419,992
    CarFax: Link
    Window Sticker: N/A
    Location: Clearwater, FL
    Dealer listing: Link (contact Larry Wood, lwood@bertsmith.com, call/text” 727-967-7022)

    Why we love it:

    If you’re fans of Spike’s Car Radio (Links: Apple, YouTube) as we are, then you probably know that “Plan Z” is vernacular for a car owned by multiple people (typically friends who trust each other not to leave groceries in the frunk). You probably also know that show hosts Spike Feresten and Paul Zuckerman are frequent Plan Z partners.

    More recently, the two have hooked up with Porsche Clearwater and have been rotating the latest Zuffenhausen it-cars through their storage hangars at the Santa Monica airport. It seems like a winning combination, because Spike and Zuckerman regularly have access to Porsche’s latest and greatest, while their ability to concoct a pretty fantastic specification means Porsche Clearwater has a regular supply of most excellent builds with an entertaining provenance.

    The latest in that line is this 2024 Porsche 911 GT 3 RS with Sonderwunsch touches, traded because their 911 S/T is inbound. Their movement on to the next one is someone else’s gain though, because this car is a choice build that they’ve spoken about regularly on the show.

    There’s a lot to review and love when you check out the details of this car via the link above, but we’ve got our favorite details we’ll call out. For starters, they patterned the first 992 GT3 RS a.k.a. “Wingman” display car Porsche revealed at Monterey Car Week 2022. However, they swapped the white/green combo of Wingman for another blue for an iconic 911 Carrera RS 2.7 color scheme. They went for the bold strategy of comfort seats over shell seats, and notably went for the Weissach package, however painted the standard White paint over the carbon on the roof and hood for more of an understated look. That last move was done, according to Spike via the podcast, at the direct suggestion of Porsche’s GT Line Director Andreas Preuninger, which makes it all that much cooler.

    Special thanks to Larry Wood of Porsche Clearwater for providing photos and details on the car. If you’re interested, contact him directly via the contact information next to the listing link listed above. Thanks for the tip Nish Pillai.

  • Event: Destination Defender Malibu

    Event: Destination Defender Malibu

    Malibu, CA – Land Rover continued its Destination Defender experiential series with a recent weekend placement amid the beauty and splendor of Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, California, from November 22—24. It featured curated outdoor adventure and fitness activities, musical performances, driving experiences, glamping, workshops, and an evening to honor this year’s Defender Service Awards winners.

    On display were several special edition models. First was one of the most recent additions to the lineup, the Octa Edition 1, a top-of-the-line Defender with matte PPF wrap over the paint. The Defender Beach Break limited edition released earlier this year was also on display.

    Heritage is always an important element of any Defender or Land Rover Display, and Destination Defender Malibu did not disappoint. The Queen’s Collection of Defenders and Range Rovers that had been displayed at Pebble Beach could also be seen here had you missed out on attending Monterey Car Week.

    In addition to a lifestyle encampment that is entirely on brand, guests are also able to take test drives in the nearby hills, including curated trail route teaching the technical capabilities of the Defender 110 plus a knowledgeable copilot to explain the many offroad features, show how they work and explain why they are needed.

    Useful links:

    Destination Defender

    Defender Octa

    Photo Gallery:

  • Market Find: 2023 Audi exclusive RS e-tron GT in Matador Red

    Market Find: 2023 Audi exclusive RS e-tron GT in Matador Red

    What: 2023 Audi RS e-tron GT
    Color: Matador Red (matadorrot; metallic UNI; Y3S; Audi)
    VIN: WAUBHBFW4P7901038
    Mileage: 20,090 miles
    Price at Time of this Writing: $82,999
    CarFax: Link
    Window Sticker: N/A
    Location: Manheim, PA
    Dealer listing: Link

    Why we love it:

    Audi exclusive paint on the four rings’ RS e-tron GT is more rare than you’d think, making cars like this one even more special when they come to market. This one is in handsome Matador Red Metallic, offering a fresh take on the familiar RS e-tron GT form.

  • EU Market Find: 1998 Evergreen on Green BMW Z3 M Roadster

    EU Market Find: 1998 Evergreen on Green BMW Z3 M Roadster

    What: 1998 BMW Z3 M Roadster
    Color: Evergreen (immergrün; non-metallic uni; 358, BMW)
    VIN: WBSCK9335WLC86934
    Mileage: 97,000 km (60,273 miles)
    Price at Time of this Writing: € 27,450
    CarFax: N/A
    Window Sticker: N/A
    Location: Sougné-Remouchamps, BE
    Dealer listing: Link

    Why we love it:

    This isn’t a paint to sample BMW Individual specimen, nor is it technically a variant North America never received. Even still, we find a low mileage Evergreen on green BMW Z3 M Roadster like this noteworthy enough for a mention.

    Though the install rate was low likely due to its polarizing hue, Evergreen was a factory color for the Z3 M Roadster. Often paired with the two-tone green interior you see here, it makes for a striking combination that stands out from the crowd.

    Alas, Evergreen hasn’t been a popular color from BMW Individual, but maybe it should be. Pastel takes on colors has been on the rise over the last decade, and maybe should be reason enough for Evergreen to make a comeback.

    As for this particular specimen, it’s worth mentioning that by nature of being a European market model it has the more desirable S52 engine. It’s listed in a private sale over on AutoScout24.de and we’ve gone ahead and copied its listed options below.

    • S710 M Sports Steering Wheel, Multifunction
    • S410 Window Lifts, Electric, Front
    • S440 Non-Smoker Package
    • S481 Sports Seat
    • S494 Seat Heating Driver/Passenger
    • S674 Hi-Fi system code aanwezig
    • S692 Preparation, BMW 6-CD Changer I-Bus
    • S530 Air Conditioning
    • S540 Cruise Control
    • S209 Differential Lock 25%
    • S314 Door Mirror, Driver Lock, Heated
    • S354 Windscreen, Green-Tinted Upper Strip
    • S380 hardtop preparation
    • S388 soft top, black
    • S395 Rollover Protection System
    • S398 soft top, Electromech. Semi-automatic
  • Red Totem GT Super Spotted in the Streets of Paris

    Red Totem GT Super Spotted in the Streets of Paris

    Paris, France – Totem Automobili, an icon of bespoke automotive craftsmanship, proudly unveiled the No. 07/40 GT Super, known as “Hestia”, during JP Morgan’s exclusive 40×40 event held at Place Vendôme in Paris on November 4th and 5th. This premier gathering brought together visionaries and next-generation leaders for two days of innovation and inspiration.

    “Hestia” is the seventh car in Totem Automobili’s special series, a masterpiece blending extraordinary performance with unparalleled luxury and design.

    The car’s exterior is painted in a triple-layer metallic red, a striking shade that highlights its sleek, modern lines. The interior, designed for ultimate refinement, features extended black Nappa leather complemented by custom-made fabric inserts, crafted exclusively to match the bespoke layout. The vehicle also boasts extensive visible carbon fiber, showcasing an intricate diamond-pattern weave that shifts dynamically depending on the viewing angle, creating a captivating visual effect.

    Under the hood, “Hestia” is powered by a 2.8-liter twin-turbo engine developed by Italtecnica exclusively for Totem Automobili. This powerhouse delivers up to 640 horsepower, ensuring a thrilling driving experience. The six-speed manual transmission with an open-gate shifter pays homage to traditional automotive craftsmanship while enhancing the connection between driver and machine.

    The name “Hestia” reflects the personal vision of its U.S.-based owner, who chose the moniker to represent warmth, beauty, and tradition. The car’s finishing touch is a matte carbon fiber trim painted in a satin nickel tint, seamlessly integrating modern sophistication with timeless elegance.

    About the 40×40 Event

    JP Morgan’s 40×40 is a highly curated annual summit, designed to connect and inspire young leaders across diverse fields, including entrepreneurs, investors, artists, and athletes. By fostering meaningful conversations and relationships, the event reflects the passions and ambitions of the next generation.

    The debut of the “Hestia” at this prestigious event underscores Totem Automobili’s alignment with visionary thinking and commitment to excellence, making it a fitting centerpiece at this gathering of remarkable individuals.

    Event Images – 📸 @tobephoto | Tommaso Bertotti

    About Totem Automobili

    Totem Automobili is an Italian automotive company specializing in the production of luxury cars hand-crafted from carbon fiber. Our mission is to combine the most modern technologies with classic design, creating cars that offer an unforgettable driving experience. The GT Series is our first masterpiece, merging Italian craftsmanship with technological innovation.

  • EU Market Find: Ex-Factory Porsche 993 Targa in Blue Turquoise plus MT6 in Belgium

    EU Market Find: Ex-Factory Porsche 993 Targa in Blue Turquoise plus MT6 in Belgium

    What: 1996 Porsche 911 Targa
    Color: Blue Turquoise (blautuerkis; non-metallic UNI; J1; Porsche)
    VIN: N/A
    Mileage: 131,000 km (81,400 miles)
    Price at Time of this Writing: €114,993
    CarFax: N/A
    Window Sticker: N/A
    Location: Schoten, Belgium
    Dealer listing: Link

    Why we love it:
    In the lexicon of air-cooled Porsche 911s, the 993 Targa is both obscure and hard to find. By the final air-cooled type 993 generation, Porsche had ditched the full-width open top with roll hoop-style design it had pioneered throughout F-body, G-body and 964 generations, replacing them with a more livable (and heavier) glass panorama-style panel that slide back underneath the rear window glass. It’s a design that would stick around through 996 and 997 generations. During the 993 generation, it wasn’t terribly popular, making it a rare find today. Now add a very rare paint color and you have a very unique find indeed.

    The hue is Blue Turquoise, paired over Classic Grey (Code TT) leather for a beautiful appearance. It’s also got a manual 6-speed. Given most of the ones we’ve seen have Tiptronic automatic transmissions, we’d wager this makes it even more rare and desirable.

    This particular car shows as having been delivered first to Porsche AG as a company car of some sort. Maintenance history, performed exclusively at Porsche facilities, show the carefully logged history of the car.

    – 29 km: Delivery by Porsche Stuttgart
    – 17,412 km: Maintenance by Porsche AG
    – 39.314 km: Maintenance by Porsche AG
    – 57,180 km: Maintenance by Porsche AG
    – 84.978 km: Maintenance by Porsche Centrum Levallois, France (Invoice available)
    – 108,994 km: Maintenance by Porsche Centrum Levallois, France (Invoice available)
    – 126,859 km: Maintenance by Porsche Centrum Antwerpen (Invoice available)

  • Market Find: 2019 Audi exclusive Aetna Blue S5 Sportback

    Market Find: 2019 Audi exclusive Aetna Blue S5 Sportback

    What: 2019 Audi S5 Sportback
    Color: Aetna Blue (aetnablau; non-metallic uni; SP39; Audi)
    VIN: WAUB4CF51KA050420
    Mileage: 75,200
    Price at Time of this Writing: $29,000
    CarFax: N/A
    Original MSRP: N/A
    Location: Southington, CT
    Private Party listing: Link

    Why we love it:

    Believed to be identical to Porsche Aetna Blue that dates back to the 356 era, a quick Googling will show that Audi exclusive has built a small number of cars in this color over the last few years. The owner/seller of this car reports, in this case, it is 1 of 1 and thus apparently the only 2019 Audi S5 Sportback built to this color… at least in this year.

    This car has some miles on it, but appears to be a great spec and impeccably kept. This includes Sport Differential, black leather, professionally applied Adams Graphene Advanced Ceramic coating, PPF xple on headlights, Integrated Engineering air intake and stage 1 tune for engine and transmission, plus a set of summer wheels / tires (Audi RS 5 5-spoke design with Continental tires) and winter wheel package with 20-inch rotor style wheels on Pirelli Winter Sottozero tires… the latter likely the stock wheel given this appears to be a black optic S5.

    Given the car has mileage, it’s also nice to know that the car has had a recent Blackstone oil analysis, that front and rear brakes were replaced, spark plugs were replaced, water pump service was completed including belt tensioner and roller all at 70,000 miles. The 75,000 mile service was also completed including all fluids changed including the differential. The seller will even provide recent PPI and complete VCDS Scan to a serious buyer.

  • Market Find: Ginster Yellow Volkswagen Golf R Spektrum

    Market Find: Ginster Yellow Volkswagen Golf R Spektrum

    What: 2019 Volkswagen Golf R Spektrum
    Color: Spektrum Ginster Yellow (ginstergelb; L132; Volkswagen)
    VIN: WVWVA7AU5KW120194
    Mileage: 55,086 miles
    Price at Time of Writing: $34,999
    CarFax: N/A
    Window Sticker: N/A
    Location: Mechanicsburg, PA
    Dealer listing: Link

    Why we love it:

    At this point we suspect our readers are familiar with the Volkswagen Golf R Spektrum series from 2019. In short, 40 different colors were chosen, built, and subsequently sold through the U.S. and Canada. Of those, Ginster Yellow was chosen to hark the 1997 Driver’s Edition GTI (Mk3).

    The car you see here is one of those Ginster Yellow cars, one of apparently 30 to be painted that color. The seller lists that’s it’s a DSG car, has the Driver’s Assistance Package and the Black Styling Package. Modifications are limited to H&R Blue lowering springs and a CTS intake. Though no CarFax is linked in the ad, the seller states it’s got a clean report including clean accident history.

  • Market Find: Gulf Racing Themed 2024 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

    Market Find: Gulf Racing Themed 2024 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

    What: 2024 Porsche 911 GT3 RS
    Color: Porsche Paint to Sample Gulf Blue (gulfblau; non-metallic / non-metallic UNI; 328; Porsche)
    VIN: WP0AF2A98RS273619
    Mileage: 50
    Price at Time of this Writing: $459,990
    CarFax: N/A
    Window Sticker: N/A
    Location: Fort Worth, TX
    Dealer listing: Link

    Why we love it:

    Sometimes the whole Gulf Racing thing can go a little overboard. It get’s done, and it get’s done a lot, but doesn’t always work… a little too ambitiously racey for a road car. The 911 GT3 RS though, it’s already got heavy racecar feel to it anyway, and those aerodynamics functional. So, spec in Gulf Blue with Weissach Package, orange stitching and orange graphics and fight the urge to logo it up and we’d argue this is one of the cooler livery-inspired 992 GT3 RS specifications we’ve seen.

    The car is no mileage, and has a pretty massive markup. That is what it is. It’s an amazing spec. If you’re tired of waiting in line or not in line at all, and you really want a GT3 RS with some racing flair, it’s hard not to love this thing.