Wanderlust

Blog

  • Q by Aston Martin Celebrates 60 Years of James Bond Partnership with DB12 Goldfinger Edition

    Q by Aston Martin Celebrates 60 Years of James Bond Partnership with DB12 Goldfinger Edition

    • Aston Martin DB12 Goldfinger Edition celebrates a 60-year partnership of two globally recognised British brands – James Bond and Aston Martin
    • Aston Martin’s first appearance in a Bond film was the now iconic DB5 in Goldfinger, inspiring the array of bespoke features
    • The ultra-luxury Super Tourer DB12 receives the 007 treatment courtesy of the marque’s bespoke personalisation service, Q by Aston Martin
    • 4.0-litre V8 Twin-Turbo engine, producing an astonishing class leading power output of 680PS/800Nm
    • The Aston Martin DB12 Goldfinger Edition is strictly limited to a run of just 60 cars

    14 October 2024, Gaydon, UK: Aston Martin is proud to present the DB12 Goldfinger Edition, crafted by the ultra-luxury marque’s bespoke personalisation service, Q by Aston Martin, in celebration of 60 years of the iconic association between Aston Martin and the James Bond film franchise.

    What has become one of the most notable partnerships in cinematic history began with the release of Goldfinger in 1964, when the Aston Martin DB5 made its silver screen debut. The DB5 went on to become one of the world’s most recognisable cars and a crucial step in the brand’s illustrious ‘DB’ bloodline. Now, the latest evolution in that lineage is getting the 007 treatment.

    To mark this historic milestone, just 60 DB12 Goldfinger Editions will be released worldwide, paying tribute to a relationship that has spanned over half of Aston Martin’s illustrious 111-year history.

    DB12 Goldfinger Edition

    Whilst the DB5 that featured in Goldfinger was equipped with all the gadgets needed to escape Bond’s adversaries, the DB12 Goldfinger Edition is focused on providing a more indulgent James Bond driving experience, incorporating subtle touches from the Goldfinger film.

    Presented in the iconic Silver Birch paint colour synonymous with the DB5 in Goldfinger, the DB12 Goldfinger Edition establishes an immediate statement. Striking 21” multi-spoke wheels with a unique silver colour with a diamond treatment finish are complemented by black brake calipers, bespoke gold side strakes and a unique Aston Martin logo in silver with a black enamel. Crowned with a bright chrome ‘Q’ fender badge gives confirmation that this DB12 has received some truly special touches.

    Inside this special edition, the leather Sports Plus seats are finished in the classic DB5 fluted style with an intricate Prince of Wales check perforation pattern, in a nod to a classic James Bond suit. This pattern extends to both the door inserts and the headliner, as well as being etched onto a unique treadplate. A polished sill plaque adorns the Goldfinger 60th anniversary logo.

    Adding an elevated level of ultra-luxury to the interior of the car and awaiting the driver’s touch is 18k Gold Plated interior accents, decorating the drive mode rotary dial and the roller controls, as well as the notched gear selector which takes design inspiration from the golden tracking device used by Bond in the film. This theme is also continued through the trim inlays, as gold metal fibres are weaved into the 2X2 Twill Gloss Carbon Fibre.

    A subtle nod for Bond aficionados is the ’eight of hearts’ embroidered onto the drivers’ sun visor, which references the playing card seen in last draw during the famous Miami pool scene in Goldfinger.

    Unique gifting for DB12 Goldfinger Edition owners

    Each Aston Martin DB12 Goldfinger Edition is presented with an array of gifts that are as exclusive as the car itself. Owners will receive a custom car cover and luxury key presentation box, along with a Silver Birch Speedform model and for something truly unique, a section of the iconic Furka Pass scene in Goldfinger in 35mm film.  A 1/60 golden limited edition Aston Martin magazine will also be gifted to the new owners of the DB12 Goldfinger Edition. This selection of bespoke gifts will be presented in a Globe-Trotter attaché case, which replicates the design of the car; a Silver Birch body and a Prince of Wales check interior.

    Owners can also enjoy a magnum of 2007 vintage Champagne Bollinger, individually numbered, with four exclusive Bollinger 007 glasses, elegantly presented in a bespoke Globe-Trotter Air Cabin Case.

    Q by Aston Martin

    DB12 Goldfinger Edition has been created by the marques in-house design experts at Q by Aston Martin; a personalisation and bespoke service – much like ‘Q Branch’ in the Bond films, that delivers endless possibilities. By accessing the skills of Q by Aston Martin’s designers and craftspeople, customers are invited to take a unique personal commissioning journey; one that encompasses everything from a single small distinguishing detail to full-scale engineering and production of entirely bespoke components. Nothing is out of reach with the design team with endless possibilities to make their car a true one of a kind.

    “The relationship between Aston Martin and the James Bond franchise is something that is always treasured”, said Marco Mattiacci, Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer.  “It is an incredible occasion to be able to recognise six decades of this partnership with an extraordinary special edition, and pay homage to the very first – and perhaps most famous Aston Martin Bond car. Incorporating these subtle but impactful touches, developed by our own ‘Q’ department has created a very unique offering; one that will be adored by Bond fans across the world.

    “Q by Aston Martin allows us to create truly unique vehicles, often initiated by the imaginations of our esteemed customers and I am delighted that we are able to support these ideas, not matter how big or small”.

    The Ultimate Super Tourer meets 007

    The Aston Martin DB12 delivers a sublime blend of performance, ultra-luxury and style, pushing the renowned DB bloodline to new heights. Powered by a formidable 4.0-litre V8 Twin-Turbo engine, producing a best-in-class power output of 680PS/800Nm with an advanced suspension system, DB12 ensures a thrilling yet refined driving experience.

    DB12 was the first of Aston Martin’s next generation of sports cars to showcase the marques new infotainment system, designed and developed in-house using state-of-the-art technology. Offering the perfect balance between touchscreen controls and tactile physical switches, this is the first infotainment system built in-house at Aston Martin, which has allowed the brand to provide a uniquely bespoke system for entertainment and navigation. When driving a Bond inspired DB12, occupants need a soundtrack to match and as such, the Goldfinger Edition also comes with the Bowers & Wilkins halo audio system as standard

    The Aston Martin DB12 was the first of the next generation of sportscars from Aston Martin. Since its 2023 debut, the super tourer has been joined by the new Vantage, DBX707 and the newly-unveiled Vanquish. First deliveries of this unique offering will commence in Q2 2025.

  • Market Find: Audi exclusive Teak Brown S5 Cabriolet on Bring a Trailer

    Market Find: Audi exclusive Teak Brown S5 Cabriolet on Bring a Trailer

    From the affordable tailored segment of the market comes this 2011 Audi S5 Cabriolet ( WAUVGAFHXBN001647 listed by 1600veloce on Bring a Trailer. Not only is its brown on brown color combination totally fitting in the midst of autumn, its unique spec on a 67,000 mile 2011 S5 with replaced 7-speed DSG transmission hints that it will result in an approachable number for someone seeking a unique specification on a budget.

    Here’s what we know about the specification of the car without having seen the Monroney sticker or build list. The paint color is listed as Audi exclusive Teak Brown Metallic. In 2011, Teak Brown was offered on the A5 and other models, though it wasn’t offered on the S5. This would have made it an Audi exclusive paint, more affordable than a completely custom color because it was in production elsewhere in the lineup.

    A puzzle is the interior specification. The BaT listing states that it’s Tuscan Brown Nappa Leather. Using the European model literature as a reference, we’re not seeing a Tuscan Brown option, though do see Magma Red and Mustang Brown. Typically, a car with a deviating Audi exclusive interior would have an aluminum “Audi exclusive” badge on the door panel. This car does not have that, so we’re guessing this amber brown interior isn’t an Audi exclusive specification.

    We don’t have a MY2011 U.S. order guide so aren’t able to confirm the specification of the interior, but we’re guessing it was standard and rare color at the time. Whatever, it’s a great specification on a car with low mileage for its age and some wear and tear that should make it an enjoyable and affordable driver.

    Check out more on the Bring a Trailer website listing HERE.

  • Sammy Hagar’s Cream LaFerrari Just Sells for $4.65M, Setting World Record

    Sammy Hagar’s Cream LaFerrari Just Sells for $4.65M, Setting World Record

    Former Van Halen front man and rocker in his own right Sammy Hagar just sold his unique Ferrari LaFerrari (VIN: ZFF76ZFA2F0212166) via Barrett Jackson’s Fall 2024 sale, setting a new world record price for this particular model of Ferrari. Notably, the car was custom built to Sammy’s specification in Cream over Cream.

    Looking over the Hagar LaFerrari, we’re guessing he built it via the Ferrari Tailor-Made program where discerning clients get a wide spectrum of freedom as they specify exterior color(s), interior color(s) and other details within the specification.

    We’re a little confused on the final price. The Barrett-Jackson social media post (below) lists it as $4.25 million, though the Barrett-Jackson Fall Sale results on their website (HERE) list the price as $4.675M.

    In this case, the colors of the Hagar LaFerrari listed by Barrett Jackson are simply Cream exterior and Cream interior. Sammy reportedly chose the combination to match the color of a 1960s Ferrari he saw pictured on the wall at Ferrari’s Maranello factory during his visit in 2014 presumably to order this car. The color combination also contrasts beautifully with carbon fiber and black accents.

    Also included with the car is a special replica model that was given to Hagar as a gift by Ferrari, a book of the build process and plaque signed by Hagar from when the car was displayed at The Quail during the 2016 Monterey Car Week.

    “I’m so excited that my LaFerrari, the most beautiful one on the planet, is headed back to Scottsdale this fall,” said Hagar in a Barrett-Jackson Press Release. “This car has a new high-voltage battery straight from the factory, so it’s even better than the original. It’s going to be an extra-rocking time because it’s crossing the block on Oct. 12, the day before my birthday. In fact, the winning bidder had better bring a passport, because I’m taking you to Cabo to help celebrate my birthday on October 13. This is going to be a wild ride and I can’t wait to see everyone there.”

  • Market Find: Audi exclusive Merlin Purple SQ8

    Market Find: Audi exclusive Merlin Purple SQ8

    For those in the know, Audi’s SQ8 is in many ways the most ‘base’ variant of the Lamborghini Urus, and at a fraction of the price. Painting with an incredibly broad brush here, the SQ8 has an incredibly similar four liter twin-turbo V8, the same platform architecture underpinning it, and minus the badging, an incredibly similar interior. Sure, it’s got a bit less boost and is understandably not quite as rapid, but what do you expect for a third of the cost?

    This particular Audi SQ8 (VIN: WA1AWBF12PD025557) finished in Audi exclusive Merlin Purple (merlin purple; pearl effect; 4B / LZ3W / Z3W; Audi) is currently on offer by our friends at Audi Wilmington in Delaware with just 4,450 miles on the clock. This is particularly interesting because its CarFax claims two owners- the first in Selma, Texas, and the second in Florida before making its way to the First State. Sure this could be in error, but we mention it for the following reason- assuming this SQ8 was driven to each destination mentioned on the CarFax with zero detours, that would total 2,519 miles. That’s 56% of total miles covered since new, simply spent moving to new homes or service appointments. Wild.

    Non-relevant statistics aside, this is a hell of a lot of car for the asking price of $87,270. We wouldn’t hesitate to bring it home and pile on miles for enjoyment rather than necessity.

    See the full listing for this Tailored Driver, here.

  • Porsche 718 Spyder RS Panamericana Special: Tribute to Historic Victory

    Porsche 718 Spyder RS Panamericana Special: Tribute to Historic Victory

    Porsche honors its legendary automotive heritage with an extraordinary creation: the 718 Spyder RS Panamericana Special. This one-of-a-kind vehicle commemorates the 70th anniversary of the official Porsche team’s historic participation in the first era of the Carrera Panamericana Mexico.

    [source: Porsche AG]

    As the final piece of a special trilogy celebrating the brand’s success in this emblematic Mexican race, drawing inspiration from the iconic 550 Spyder, it will also be auctioned for charitable causes. As a perfect addition, TAG Heuer pays tribute to this legendary race through the release of the limited TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Porsche Panamericana.

    A one-of-a-kind vehicle

    Porsche Latin America unveiled the 718 Spyder RS Panamericana Special, a one-of-a-kind vehicle commemorating Porsche’s most significant success during the 1954 Carrera Panamericana Mexico. This edition is considered Porsche’s most successful among the brand’s three participations since 1952. Hans Herrmann, piloting a 550 Spyder, secured an impressive third place overall and clinched victory in the Sport category for cars up to 1500 cc. This remarkable achievement not only elevated Porsche’s status in global motorsport but also proved so memorable that—combined with the experiences of 1952 and 1953—it inspired the iconic “Carrera” naming.

    Using the 718 Spyder RS as a foundation, Porsche aimed to recreate the spirit of the historic mid-engine 550 Spyder with its lightweight construction—the first vehicle specifically designed for racing that outperformed rivals with larger engines. A Porsche Latin America team, collaborating with Exclusive Manufaktur experts at Porsche’s headquarters in Germany, developed this model. Their joint effort completed a trilogy of cars created through Sonderwunsch, Porsche’s exclusive personalization program. This trilogy celebrates the 70th anniversary of three remarkable Porsche participations in the Carrera Panamericana.

    “From the beginning to the modern era, La Carrera Panamericana Mexico is far more than a competition for Porsche. One only needs to look at the 911 Carrera or the Panamera—both named to honor the events that unfolded here in Mexico 70 years ago. The Sonderwunsch Inspiration cars represent exceptionally special projects, and Mexico was entrusted with three consecutive ones: the 911 Carrera Panamericana Special, the twin 718 Cayman GT4 RS Carrera Panamericana Specials, and this year’s 718 Spyder RS Panamericana Special”, said Tobias Eninger, CEO and President of Porsche Latin America. “The latter celebrates the legendary 550 Spyder, with which Hans Herrmann achieved remarkable feats. Each car commemorates a successful moment that individually resonated through the years, but collectively, transformed Porsche into an iconic brand.”

    Celebrating Porsche’s Success in Mexico

    In 1954, during the final edition of “golden era” of the Carrera Panamericana Mexico, Porsche cemented its legacy in this legendary rally. The brand achieved its best result to date, showcasing the exceptional capabilities of its sports cars in one of the most grueling races in those times. Porsche fielded a team of four official 550 Spyders, driven by an international quartet: Mexico’s Salvador López Chávez, Argentina’s Fernando Segura, Guatemala’s Jaroslav Juhan, and Germany’s Hans Herrmann. The race spanned five intense days, covering over 3,000 kilometers from the southern Mexican Border at Tuxtla Gutiérrez in the state of Chiapas, to the northern border at Ciudad Juárez in the state of Chihuahua.

    The Porsche 550 Spyder featured the first race use of the 1500 cc four-camshaft engine, which was groundbreaking technology for its time. Combined with the lightweight aluminum bodywork, this engine enabled the car to reach speeds exceeding 200 km/h, allowing it to outperform heavier vehicles with engines more than three times its size. This victory was not just Porsche’s first as an official team; it also led to the Fuhrmann engine being dubbed the “Carrera Engine” and later inspired the name of Porsche’s most exclusive model line.

    Completing the trilogy: the new Porsche 718 Spyder RS Panamericana Special

    The Porsche 718 Spyder RS Panamericana Special, distinguishes itself through aesthetic enhancements, exclusive equipment, and historical nods. Centenaire silver adorns nearly all aerodynamic elements, including the carbon fiber components from the Weissach package. This striking color extends from the NACA ducts on the front, through the fascia and lower air intakes, to the rear spoiler in Gurney Flap format. The Magnesium wheels are complemented by high-gloss black ceramic composite brake calipers (PCCB), offering a contemporary twist.

  • Gunther Werks Teases Latest GWR Bespoke Specification

    Gunther Werks Teases Latest GWR Bespoke Specification

    Gunther Werks continues to impress with its progressive evolution of its classic 911 formula based on the reimagining of Porsche’s 993-generation cars. This latest build, teased in these 3-D renderings posted to their social media channels, shows a bespoke take on what should be the subtle – a shade of silver.

    Here’s what we know. The car is the next specification built to their GWR formula, meaning unique and aerodynamic widebody with that almost 935-inspired venting of the front quarterpanel. At the rear, a ducktail spoiler gives it more of a touring / roadgoing look and feel.

    The color on this 993 is listed as Argenta Shadow Silver and is described as “bespoke”, implying that this particular iteration of silver was formulated for the client commissioning this particular build. This is a 3-D rendering, so not exactly as valuable as “real world” pics for inspection of the silver, so we’re not entirely sure if the “Porsche” script and striping on the doors is blue or simply a darkened silver, while the script itself appears to be more of a white or perhaps matches the finish on the wheels.

    We should also dwell a moment on those aforementioned wheels as well. The design itself very closely pays tribute to the design also seen on the modern Porsche 911 GT3. Like the modern car, these too are center lock, and they lean ever-so-slightly toward the gold side of the spectrum. The finish is listed as Desert Mist White Gold finish and we can’t wait to see what that looks like in real life.

    See more photos of the car below or via the embedded Facebook link above. You can also check out Gunther Werks directly at guntherwerks.com.

  • Color Check: Ascari Blue and Neodym Gold Matte on New Audi RS Q8

    Color Check: Ascari Blue and Neodym Gold Matte on New Audi RS Q8

    In the context of the new and facelift RS Q8, Ascari Blue isn’t an Audi exclusive color. Nevertheless, getting a closer look at the color in the real world lighting of these new shots from Audi UK, as well as how it pairs with Neodym Gold Matte wheels from the RS Q8’s latest parts bin convinced us to run a gallery anyway.

    First, let’s consider Ascari Blue. Like some other colors and shades at Audi (looking at you Nardo Grey), Ingolstadt quietly launched the paint color as a most definitely Audi exclusive offering. Our first memory of the color was being painted on a collection of Ascari Blue RS show cars from Audi Sport GmbH at a European Auto Show. It eventually filtered into standard color palettes at first for RS cars, but most recently on many, many more – the new A5, new A6 e-tron, SQ8 and more. Like Nardo Grey, it is a fantastic color, though one that likely suffers from its own success and subsequent ubiquity. It is no longer on the more exclusive side of Audi exclusive color offerings.

    But yes, it’s still handsome. It also pairs interestingly with these new double Y-spoke 23-inch wheels finished in Nodym Gold Matte. For starters, the wheels aren’t far from the great-looking wheels seen on some of Audi’s more recent concept cars, while also seeming to harken both the brand’s 6-spoke Avus heritage, and also perhaps the split spoke look of wheels made most famous on the B7 RS 4. Whatever the inspiration, some or all of the above, the wheels look great… especially in a subtle gold matte.

    Granted, the blue and gold motif in the context of the United Kingdom does have echos of Subaru Rally’s 555 era with Colin McRae, but for a car nerd reference at that depth we’re guessing the same critic will appreciate Audi’s own first player position as early all-wheel drive proponent and world rally champion in its own right… though maybe more Mouton than McRae.

    Back to the RS Q8, we’ve added it here for color check purposes. If you like Ascari, then you probably don’t mind seeing how it pairs with gold. And if you’re interested in the new RS Q8, then you probably appreciate seeing some of the first real-world shots of the car thanks to our friends at Audi UK.

  • Market Find: Paint to Sample Mexico Blue Porsche Boxster S

    Market Find: Paint to Sample Mexico Blue Porsche Boxster S

    Before the current generation of Boxster/718, Porsche’s entry level sports car struggled to gain respect. Considered simply a Porsche for folks who couldn’t afford a 911, the Boxster was a bit underpowered and was in most trims outclassed by it’s competitors during magazine shootouts of the day. I suppose it’s without too much shock then, that we can say PTS on early Boxster or Cayman models is fairly rare.

    Finished in Paint to Sample Mexico Blue, this 2007 Porsche Boxster S (VIN: WP0CB29887U731094) has covered just 18,613 miles since leaving Porsche Rocklin some 17 years ago. That’s a shame, because Paint to Sample Mexico blue paired with Cocoa Brown extended leather is quite the head turner. Understandably the car appears to be in quite good condition having never really been used, but the slightly lower stance suggests each trip was a spirited one.

    This Paint to Sample Porsche Boxster S is currently on offer by our friends at Gran Prix Motors in Portland, Oregon for an asking price of $39,900. Get all the details on this Tailored Driver, here.

  • BMW Skytop: Strictly Limited-Run Small-Series Model for Enthusiasts and Collectors.

    BMW Skytop: Strictly Limited-Run Small-Series Model for Enthusiasts and Collectors.

    • Roadster design study put smiles on faces of car fans at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2024
    • Hugely positive response inspires BMW to produce 50 examples of the elegant two-seater
    • Latest strictly limited-run special-edition model of the last few years

    Munich. BMW is poised to set pulses racing among fans of exclusive driving pleasure and collectors of automotive masterpieces once again with a strictly limited-run small-series model. Following in the tyre tracks of the BMW 3.0 CSL – revealed in 2022 to mark the 50th birthday of BMW M GmbH – is the BMW Skytop (fuel consumption, combined: 11.6 litres/100 km [24.4 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions, combined: 264 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO2 class: G; provisional values). The BMW Skytop wraps the joy of driving for which the brand is renowned in a timelessly elegant design characterised by precision craftsmanship in every last detail. Initially shown in design study form as the BMW Concept Skytop at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2024 on the shores of Lake Como, the two-seater roadster sent waves of excitement through the assembled connoisseurs and automotive aficionados. This rapturous response prompted BMW to convert the concept into a strictly limited production run of 50 examples.

    The decision was announced by Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design, at an event hosted by the House of BMW in Milan, Italy, where the highly desired design study was again on display. It was also revealed here that all examples of the BMW Skytop reserved for enthusiasts and collectors found their future owners within a very short space of time. “The BMW Skytop is a truly exotic design and offers a combination of driving dynamics and elegance at the highest level,” said van Hooydonk. “To finally be able to announce that this car will be built is like a dream come true. Thank you for the very positive response around the globe and to the passionate team that worked on the project.”

    Dynamism and elegance continue the tradition of legendary BMW roadsters.

    BMW recently presented the likewise strictly limited-run BMW 3.0 CSL. Production of this exclusive sports car was also capped at 50 cars. In both concept and design, the special edition served as a homage to the legendary BMW 3.0 CSL “Batmobile” of the early 1970s.

    The BMW Skytop is another desirable collector’s item from the Bavarian premium carmaker. The open-top two-seater celebrates BMW’s history of iconic roadsters, among them the BMW 507 and BMW Z8. The sculptural athleticism of its body is constructed from taut, muscular surfaces defined by a few precise lines, the BMW Skytop emitting a powerful sense of dynamism before it even turns a wheel. The pronounced arrow shape of the bonnet, evocative BMW shark-nose design and tightening tail are all carefully chosen references to the BMW Z8.

    Just like its legendary roadster ancestor, the BMW Skytop takes to the road with the most powerful V8 in the brand’s armoury. The 4.4-litre petrol unit generates maximum output of 460 kW/625 hp and teams up with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. Maximising traction is the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which distributes the engine’s power between all four wheels as required, and optimises stability and driving dynamics in any situation. With this drive configuration in place, the handsome two-door will sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in around 3.3 seconds.

    Exclusive materials and traditional craftsmanship.

    The exclusivity of this unique masterpiece of automotive craftsmanship is also reflected in its timelessly elegant appearance. Headlining the exterior design is the pronounced spline that extends from the bonnet to an aluminium bar on the boot lid, emphasising the dynamic flow of the special edition’s form. Winglets discreetly integrated into the door shoulders take the place of conventional door handles and – together with the light-alloy wheels with their intricate fins between the spokes – feed into the car’s clean, graceful appearance. The illuminated BMW kidney grille and the headlights also play their part in the progressive look of the front end. The LED units are positioned on aluminium carriers and have the slimmest profile currently available for automotive headlights. They were custom developed for the BMW Skytop and group together all the lighting functions. The rear lights likewise have an arrestingly slim design and carry the progressive design theme of the BMW Skytop into the rear end.

    Like the leather-covered rollover bar behind the seats, the fully retractable rear window and leather-trimmed soft-top roof generate a pure-bred roadster feeling. The two removable roof sections, which are finished with high-quality synthetic leather, stow away in a special compartment in the luggage area.

    The harmonious colour scheme ensures a smooth visual transition from interior to exterior – both with the soft-top open and closed. At the rear of the car, the reddish-brown of the roof flows into the Floating Sundown Silver exterior paint finish, whose chrome shadow effect gives it impressive visual impact. The elaborate colour gradient was applied by hand by experienced master painters.

    Inimitable ambience, exquisite appointments and high-quality equipment.

    Inside the BMW Skytop, too, precision craftsmanship, handpicked materials and warm, monochrome colour tones create a feel of cosseting luxury and singular elegance. In common with other elements of the interior design, the leather seats, accented by brogue-style decoration, come in the same shade of brown used for the roof. Crystal applications embedded ornately into the cockpit also contribute to the sumptuous on-board ambience.

    The exclusive character of the BMW Skytop is additionally underscored by high-quality equipment features such as a soft-close function for the doors and the stunning Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes the full-colour BMW Head-Up Display, which projects driving and navigation information directly into the driver’s field of view.

    The fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, electric power consumption and operating range figures are determined according to the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the version applicable. They refer to vehicles in the German market. Where a range is shown, the figures take into account the impact of any optional extras.

    All values were calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle. WLTP values are taken as the basis for determining vehicle-related taxes or other duties based (at least inter alia) on CO2 emissions as well as eligibility for any applicable vehicle-specific subsidies. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures can also be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.

    Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: ‘Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen’ (Guide to the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

    In the event of enquiries please contact:

    The BMW Group

    With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

    In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

    The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

    www.bmwgroup.com

    LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

    X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

  • Market Find: BMW Individual Bronzit Metallic 323ti Sport Edition

    Market Find: BMW Individual Bronzit Metallic 323ti Sport Edition

    When you think of the auto show circuit, chances are the Geneva Motor Show comes to mind. Before COVID turned the world on its head, Geneva in March was must-see TV for auto enthusiasts around the world. Manufacturers would bring concepts and incredibly high spec builds, all positioned atop 7 to 8 figure booths, in an attempt to gain as many eyeballs as possible. This Tailored Driver is especially special to us because per the seller, it happened to be on BMWs booth in 1998.

    Yes, adjacent to the then new E46 generation 3 series sat this BMW Individual Bronzit Metallic (bronzit; metallic; 139; BMW) 323ti Sport Edition (VIN: unknown). While we can’t seem to find any images to support this claim, we certainly can picture this sitting under the lights, being crawled over by journalists, customers, and engineers from competing companies all the same. BMW Individual Bronzit Metallic really pops here in the most late-90s way possible.

    Since it left that show in Switzerland, this BMW Individual Bronzit Metallic 323ti Sport Edition has covered an impressive 345,000 km (214,000 mi), and so far as we can tell remained in good visible shape and largely unmodified apart from a Supersprint exhaust. With a slightly dipping Euro to USD ratio, the asking price of 9,900EUR (about $10,800 at time of writing) makes it a pretty interesting proposition too.

    If you’re ready to own a piece of history, you can find additional details here.