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  • Extracampionaro Blu Elettrico with Giallo Fly Accents 2022 Ferrari 812 Competizione – Monterey Car Week 2024

    Extracampionaro Blu Elettrico with Giallo Fly Accents 2022 Ferrari 812 Competizione – Monterey Car Week 2024

    words/photos: Denis Podmarkov

    This Ferrari 812 Competizione was likely the most customized car on the list at Bonhams | Cars. While the 812 Competizione is already unique, this one (VIN# ZFF03TLAXN0283626) stands out with nearly $130,000 in factory bespoke options. The most striking feature is the Extracampionaro (off-catalogue) paintwork in Blu Elettrico 2020 with Giallo Fly livery accents.

    The details continue with 20-inch wheels fitted with yellow-accented Pirelli tires, yellow calipers, and exposed carbon trim. Inside, the theme persists with stunning Blu Medio leather-trimmed Daytona racing seats, Nuovo Giallo accents, and contrasting yellow stitching. The window sticker and specification plate highlight carbon fiber features, including the rear diffuser, front air vents, under door covers, instrument panel, parcel shelf, upper console, and dash inserts.

    Additionally, the car is equipped with adaptive headlamps, a suspension lifting system for easier low-speed maneuvering, diamond-polished forged wheels, a high-power audio system, and Scuderia shields. With all these bespoke options, this Ferrari truly is a one-off, and according to Bonhams, it sold for $1,611,000.

    Check out our full coverage of the event here: Monterey Car Week 2024 Bonhams | Cars The Quail Auction.

  • Monterey Car Week 2024 – Bonhams | Cars, The Quail Auction

    Monterey Car Week 2024 – Bonhams | Cars, The Quail Auction

    words/photos: Denis Podmarkov

    The Tailored Driver Car Week trip kicked off at the Bonhams | Cars Quail Auction. As we searched for bespoke options, limited colors, and tailored interiors, auctions like this were the perfect place to start. The online previews provided a solid idea of what to expect, and Bonhams certainly delivered.

    As always, Bonhams | Cars showcased a fantastic selection, but we focused on three specific cars: the 2022 Ferrari 812 Competizione, the 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder Weissach, and the 1998 Porsche 911 Type 993 Turbo XLC Coupe. We’ll dive into these in detail in a future post.

    For now, enjoy the coverage curated by our team, and let us know what you think! Don’t forget to join our groups and forums at Tailored Driver Registration.

    More Car Week coverage is coming soon!

  • Singer Shares Austin Commission in Aubergine

    Singer Shares Austin Commission in Aubergine

    This week on Singer’s social media channels, the California-based re-imagineer of Porsche 911s shared photos of the Austin Commission. The car is one of their so-called Classic builds and it’s painted “Aubergine” that appears to be one in the same as the classic dark purple hue more common on Porsches of the late 1960s and 1970s.

    Singer shares that, in addition to paint-to-sample Aubergine, the owner also specified electrically adjustable touring seats trimmed in Platero and featuring an asymmetric leather weave design. To our eye, their off-center striping seems to hark the striped seats of the 991.2 GT3 interior, though in a distinctly more classic Singer way.

    Check out more on the Austin Commission plus the social media post with these photos HERE.

  • Market Find: 2022 BMW Individual X5 M in British Racing Green

    Market Find: 2022 BMW Individual X5 M in British Racing Green

    If you’re looking for a faster or more affordable way into the driver’s seat of a tailored car, buying it built can be a solid strategy. No, it’s not to your exact spec and you don’t get your Instagrammable moment of a sales guy pulling a fake auto show cover off of the car in a brightly lit delivery room, but you do get to skip the line for an allotment and the wait for production… not to mention enjoy a bit of depreciation. This can be especially rewarding when snagging a late model and barely broken in example from a previous owner with impeccable taste. Take for example this 2022 BMW X5 M (VIN# 5YMJU0C07N9M27108).

    This BMW Individual touched X5 M is an AutoTrader Private Seller Exchange listing. In the notes, the current owner states, “I personally specc’d this BMW Individual in British Racing Green and waited over 6 months for it to arrive.”

    That owner then logged just under 20,000 miles (19,778 to be exact) before putting the car up for sale.

    They also shared that the paint wasn’t the only option. This X5 M also got Merino full leather in Taruma Brown, red M-compound brake calipers, carbon fiber interior trim, shadow line lights, shadow line extended trim and BMW 50 Years anniversary emblems.

    Other options included: Executive Package, Remote engine start, Soft-close automatic doors, Rear side window shades, Heated and cooled cupholders, Front massaging seats, Front ventilated seats, Front and rear heated seats, M Competition Package, M Sport exhaust system, 21/22 M light alloy wheels, M seat belts, Competition Package 2, Driver Assistance Professional Package, Extended traffic jam assistant, Active driving assistant pro.

    Also worth noting, the current/original owner swapped out the tires for the always welcome Michelin Pilot Sport 4S about 10,000 miles ago.

    The seller also states: “Clean title in-hand. No accidents, no issues, no concerns. Garage kept and regularly washed/detailed. All services have been completed on-time, including the 1,200 mile M break-in service. Only top-tier 91 gas from Mobil, Chevron, or Shell.

    “You will be hard-pressed to find a cleaner X5M, especially in this ultra rare color, which is only available as special order through BMW Individual program. MSRP $124,945 .. 2 keys/fobs included, along with user’s manual and window sticker.”

    There’s more detail and more photos in the AutoTrader link HERE.

  • Singer Confirms Colors of Monterey Car Week House Display Cars

    Singer Confirms Colors of Monterey Car Week House Display Cars

    If you missed swinging by the Singer house during Monterey Car Week, you’re not alone. Those who did would have seen these three cars. Shot most beautifully by @huck93, these shots of the cars were shared on Singer’s social channels.

    Even better, they also shared the paint names for the three finishes. These include the DLS Turbo in Turbo Racing White with Fluro Red accents, the Classic Turbo in Turbo Racing White and Seafoam and the DLS in Parallax White and Norfolk Yellow.

  • Introducing Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke

    Introducing Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke

    Clients can now specify a fully restored Classic Defender V8 to reflect their personality, with an extended choice of materials, colour combinations, finishes and accessories 

    • Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke is the next chapter in the Classic Defender story
    • Unique new commissioning service represents the pinnacle of personalisation and restoration offered by Land Rover Classic Works Bespoke 
    • Clients can specify a fully restored Classic Defender V8 to reflect their personality, with an extended choice of materials, interior and exterior colour combinations, finishes, accessories, and upgrades
    • Remastered by hand in the UK by our expert Land Rover Classic engineers, each vehicle is fitted with a genuine Land Rover 405hp OEM 5.0 litre petrol V8 engine, producing 515Nm of torque, mated to an eight‑speed ZF automatic transmission
    • Available in iconic 90 and 110 body designs, priced from £190,000 plus applicable local taxes
    • Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke will make its debut at Goodwood Revival in September 2024

    [source: JLR, Land Rover Classic]

    The next chapter in the Land Rover Classic story has arrived, with the launch of the Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke. Expanding Land Rover Classic’s range of restoration services to deliver totally unique vehicles, Works Bespoke allows individuals to bring their Classic Defender vision to life and represents the pinnacle of personalisation. 

    With 90 and 110 body designs to choose from, clients can specify the Classic Defender V8 of their dreams using the new digital Land Rover Classic configurator tool, as well as receiving dedicated personalised support from the specialist teams at Classic Works in Coventry, UK and Essen, Germany.

    Each Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke is the product of hundreds of hours of painstaking work by our expert Land Rover Classic engineers. Every example, sourced by our team of specialists, utilises donor vehicles originally produced between 2012‑2016, before being fully remastered from the ground up to the finest possible detail, re‑engineered and upgraded, so that clients can be confident in the vehicle’s longevity, strength, and enduring quality.

    Blending luxury, capability and modern usability, the Classic Defender V8 is powered by a genuine Land Rover 405hp 5.0‑litre petrol V8 engine. Giving these exclusive vehicles the power of a V8 with the authenticity of a Classic Defender.

    Following the same mechanical formula as Land Rover Classic Islay Edition and Trophy vehicles, the powerful V8 engine is mated to an eight‑speed ZF automatic transmission for effortless performance underpinned by our in‑house suspension set up, developed for optimal road holding and ride comfort.

    “With Works Bespoke, we are giving clients the opportunity to create their perfect Classic Defender V8, a vehicle that will suit their exact lifestyle. Every vehicle is lovingly crafted, with creativity the only limit when it comes to personalising each vehicle to the owner’s desired specification. From start to finish, clients of Works Bespoke will be given an experience like no other, creating their ultimate Classic Defender V8.” – Paul Barritt, Director of Land Rover Classic

    Every step in the Works Bespoke design process is personalised with a range of colours and finishes available to fit every lifestyle inside and out. When it comes to exterior paint finishes clients can select the colour of their dreams for the timeless bodywork, whether it is from one of the defined Heritage, Contemporary, Premium or SV Metallic palettes, or a truly bespoke option with our match to sample service.

    The SV Metallic palette provides the most exclusive colour spectrum ever offered, with dramatic depth and impeccable hand‑finished quality, including colours such as Sunset Gold or Sunrise Copper. Heritage options include Balmoral Green and Marine Blue, while Contemporary offers Corinthian Bronze and Firenze Red, among others. The roof can be in body colour or completed with a contrasting finish, such as Limestone – the roof colour of the recent Islay Edition. 

    Customisation extends far beyond body colours, with the ability to refine a multitude of exterior details, ensuring each commission perfectly matches the client and their needs. Choose between a Heritage, Standard or Adventure grille, with bonnet script, door handles and fixings in either silver or black as part of the Silver or Black Packs. 

    A choice of 16‑inch Wolf wheels or 18‑inch Sawtooth alloys are available, the former finished in either black or Limestone. Additionally, side steps are available alongside accessories including a roof rack, expedition cage, ladder, and winch, for those venturing further off‑road. Atop the Classic Defender V8, clients can also select a set of classic‑style roof‑mounted spotlights, or a full roof‑mounted LED light bar. 

    As with previous Classic Defender V8 models, every Works Bespoke vehicle is fitted with modern LED headlights as standard for enhanced visibility in all conditions, paired with either the Heritage Lighting Pack or the Crystal Lighting Pack, lending distinctly classic or modern details to the vehicle’s bodywork. 

    The interior is recognisably Classic Defender, revitalised and crafted in line with the client’s desired specification, with carefully chosen modern features designed to make the Classic Defender as user‑friendly as possible. 

    A tactile and intuitive pistol shifter gear selector controls the automatic transmission, while luxurious leather can be found on the seats, side trim, doors, roof lining and dashboard, finished in one of five monotone or eight duotone options with colours such as Caraway, Liberty Blue, and Garnet.

    Prominent in the gloss black centre console is the Land Rover Classic Infotainment System, which incorporates modern functionality such as satellite navigation, DAB radio and Bluetooth thanks to a 3.5‑inch touchscreen, with an original display and facia. 

    Clients are encouraged to utilise the new Classic Defender V8 configurator to explore a broad range of options, before consulting Land Rover Classic product experts to personalise their vehicle to an even greater degree. Clients are also able to look beyond this specific set of colours should they wish, discussing their desires with an expert member of the Land Rover Classic team. 

    For individuals who want to keep their options open when out on or off‑road, the Adventure Pack includes a roof‑mounted tent box and ladder, while a Ply Guys Camper Conversion is also available, turning the rear space of the cabin into a bespoke living quarters.

    Carefully selected donor vehicles date from 2012‑2016, with every example fitted with a naturally aspirated 5.0‑litre V8 providing 405hp and 515Nm of torque as part of the Works Bespoke process. Power is transmitted to the wheels via an eight‑speed ZF automatic transmission and All‑Wheel Drive system, providing everyday drivability and exceptional capability.

    All Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke vehicles benefit from a curated selection of high‑quality parts, such as performance‑focussed four‑piston Alcon brakes, the front discs measuring 335mm and 300mm at the rear. These offer excellent braking performance to match the vehicle’s straight‑line pace – whilst, in unison, the Defender Suspension Upgrade Kit ensures excellent on and off‑road comfort and performance, with revised Eibach coil spring rates and anti‑roll bars and Bilstein dampers.

    Perfect for adventurers, enthusiasts and collectors, prices for the Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke start from £190,000 + VAT for the four‑seat 90 Station Wagon and £199,000 + VAT for the five‑seat 110 Station Wagon. A seven‑seat 110 Station Wagon is available from £204,000 + VAT.

    The Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke will make its debut at the 2024 Goodwood Revival from 6‑8 September, giving prospective clients and keen Classic Defender fans the opportunity to see the vehicle and meet members of the Land Rover Classic team.

    V8 DEFENDER HISTORY

    V8 powertrains in the Land Rover Defender and its production predecessors started with the Series III Stage 1 V8 of 1979. The carburetted 3.5‑litre Rover V8 produced 90bhp. 

    The Land Rover 110 from 1983, and 90 from 1984, used the same 3.5‑litre Rover V8 engine as the Series III Stage 1 V8, but in 113bhp form, uprated to 135bhp from 1987. 

    For North American Specification (NAS), Defender 90s and 110s only, from 1992, a 182bhp fuel‑injected 3.9‑litre version of the Rover V8 was fitted, along with a four‑speed automatic transmission. 

    In 1998, the fuel‑injected 190bhp 4.0‑litre V8 from the second‑generation Range Rover was fitted to a limited run of 50th Anniversary Defender 90s, with a four‑speed automatic transmission.

    5.0‑litre naturally‑aspirated 2018 Defender Works V8 became the first official V8‑powered Land Rover Defender to be introduced since 1998.

    Other editions of the Land Rover Classic Defender V8 include the Islay, Trophy and Trophy II variants.

    About Land Rover Classic

    Land Rover Classic is the official source of authentic cars, expert services, genuine parts, and unforgettable experiences for classic Land Rover enthusiasts worldwide. Our team of highly skilled engineers at the Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works facility in Coventry specialises in outstanding Land Rover Series I and Range Rover Reborn restorations and building the Defender Works V8. 

    All enquiries from prospective Land Rover Classic customers should be directed to:  
    sales@classic‑jaguarlandrover.com/ +44 (0) 2476 566 600 / www.landrover.com/classic 

    Important notice
    JLR is constantly seeking ways to improve the specification, design and production of its vehicles, parts and accessories and alterations take place continually. Whilst every effort is made to produce up‑to‑date literature, this document should not be regarded as an infallible guide to current specifications or availability, nor does it constitute an offer for the sale of any particular vehicle, part, or accessory. All figures are manufacturer’s estimates. 

    Further Information

    For more information on the full range of cars, services, parts, and experiences offered by Land Rover Classic, visit: www.landrover.com/classic  

    For more information about Land Rover Classic Parts, including performance upgrades for the classic Defender, visit: parts.jaguarlandroverclassic.com

    For further Land Rover Classic media information, visit: www.media.landrover.com 

    Land Rover Classic Channels: 

    Instagram: instagram.com/landrover.classic/

    Land Rover Channels: 

    Facebook: facebook.com/LandRover 

    Twitter: twitter.com/LandRover 

    Instagram: instagram.com/LandRover 

    YouTube: youtube.com/LandRover  

    Enquiries for Land Rover Classic should be made via: https://www.landrover.com/explore‑land‑rover/land‑rover‑classic/works‑bespoke/index.html, or +44 (0) 2476 566 600, or sales@classic‑jaguarlandrover.com 



  • Kingsley Re-Engineered Unveils Defender Series at Salon Privé

    Kingsley Re-Engineered Unveils Defender Series at Salon Privé

    • Kingsley Re-Engineered (Kingsley) has introduced its new definitive Defender series, available in both D90 and D110 configurations
    • Every alteration by Kingsley retains the essence of a Land Rover Defender while transforming it into a perfect companion for both off- and on-road trips
    • As standard, each Defender by Kingsley will utilise a totally overhauled, original powertrain, mated to a fully rebuilt gearbox and significant upgrades to suspension and brakes
    • In the cabin, modern conveniences such as wireless Apple CarPlay are seamlessly integrated as standard for a bespoke driving experience
    • Customisation colour and spec options are nearly endless, and customers can option different V8 engine variants, a new heating and air-conditioning system plus a variety of roof configurations

    [source: Kingsley Re-Engineered]

    Oxfordshire, UK – Kingsley Re-Engineered has unveiled its definitive Defender model line at the prestigious Salon Privé Blenheim Palace Concours event today. Situated just five miles from where it was meticulously engineered, handcrafted, and assembled, this all-new Kingsley Defender is designed for the modern driver. Created in the UK and made for custodians worldwide, Kingsley’s Defender sets a new standard for this Great British icon.

    Fastidiously redefined for adventurers and international luxury seekers, Kingsley’s Defender series is available in both short-wheelbase (D90) and longer-wheelbase (D110) configurations and is crafted with a passion for precision, unleashing the customer’s personality and celebrating the joy of Defender ownership. Emphasising performance and driving experience, while retaining the characteristics so favoured by city dwellers, country estate lovers and beachgoers, the Kingsley Defender merges yesterday’s masterpiece with today’s and tomorrow’s know-how to create the definitive variant.

    Leveraging its two-decade-long legacy with these iconic British 4x4s, the definitive Defender line-up sees Kingsley enter a new era of bespoke, cutting-edge customer builds, transforming automotive heritage for the next generation. Utilising an original Land Rover Defender as the basis of this reimagination, Kingsley leaves no stone unturned, with its skilled craftspeople handcrafting each Kingsley Defender from its UK-based facility in the heart of the nation’s automotive valley. Available in D90 and D110 configurations, alongside a multitude of customisable options for customers to make the vehicle their dream Defender, the Kingsley Defender is built to deliver Range Rover levels of sophistication and comfort to this Great British icon.

    The short-wheelbase Defender 90 model epitomises agility and versatility, with its compact footprint and nimble handling making it ideal for both urban environments and challenging off-road terrain. The D90’s shorter wheelbase – while still able to accommodate between two and six seats – and lower weight provide a more focused and engaging driving experience, while its iconic styling secures its place in both glamorous urban settings and rugged landscapes. The D110 model, with its extended wheelbase and capacity for between two and nine seats, offers enhanced space and versatility, making it the perfect choice for those who require additional capacity without sacrificing the Defender’s legendary off-road capabilities. The D110’s longer wheelbase ensures a smoother ride and greater interior space, ideal for both adventurers and families alike.

    Established in 2001 in Oxfordshire, UK, adjacent to the heritage site of the classic Defender, Kingsley has previously worked on Defenders as part of individual and special projects for customers. With the introduction of this definitive Defender series, Kingsley is now offering its first series of overhauled Defenders as a cohesive collection. This new line embodies the essence of Kingsley’s craftsmanship, combined with the benefits of extensive research and development to create a unified product offering for customers worldwide.

    John Sawbridge, Managing Director of Kingsley Re-Engineered said: “Reimagining the Defender is not just about preserving its legacy, but about enhancing it for the modern driver. We take great pride in our meticulous approach to restoration and customisation, ensuring that each vehicle not only honours the past but also embraces the future with innovations and comfort – all while staying true and representative of Kingsley for a new age. Our goal is to deliver a Defender that resonates with the same spirit of adventure and robustness, but with the sophistication and driving dynamics that today’s discerning customers expect.”

    An icon for a new era
    The new Defender line is not just a restoration; it is a re-imagining of the iconic Land Rover model. Each vehicle is crafted with an estimated 1,500 hours of meticulous attention to detail, all done from Kingsley’s UK headquarters. This comprehensive process includes significant upgrades to performance, comfort, and durability, making the Defender a true modern classic. While as standard the Kingsley team uses an overhauled, original powertrain, the D90 shown at Salon Privé today features the all-new Kingsley high torque 4.2-litre V8 engine. In this configuration, the top speed exceeds 100 mph and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 9.5 seconds. Overall, this powertrain delivers 220 bhp and 360 Nm of torque at 3,250 rpm. Kingsley will also offer an optional four to eight-speed automatic gearbox conversion, alongside the other optional Chevrolet LS3/LT1 V8 engines.

    Designed to be both a sanctuary and a command centre, the interior of a Kingsley Defender is crafted with care to offer unparalleled comfort, advanced technology, and bespoke luxury, all while staying true to the iconic Defender spirit. Whether opting for a complete refurbishment of the original trim or a full reimagining with high-quality Nappa leather and Alcantara accents, Kingsley ensures that the interior of the Defender reflects both the rugged heritage of the vehicle and the refined tastes of its owner.

    The D90 demonstrator, available for test drives in the UK and showcased at Salon Privé at Blenheim Palace this year [2024], features exclusive sandstone leather with Spinneybeck leather weave seat centres, offering both comfort and style – though owners have the freedom to choose any material and colour combination they prefer. The Kingsley upgraded instrument cluster and smaller diameter steering wheel enhance the driving experience, while modern conveniences, such as wireless Apple CarPlay, are seamlessly integrated.

    Each Kingsley Defender will feature bespoke exterior colour combinations, with a core palette of Heritage hues available. Unlike many of its peers, Kingsley completes all paintwork on-site, meaning that production, paint and build are never more than a few hundred yards away from each other. For those seeking a more personalised touch, bespoke colours and finishes are available on request, including options for custom PPF and ceramic coating, ensuring a truly unique and durable finish.

    Suspension and braking systems have also been significantly upgraded. The Defender comes equipped with electronically controlled active damping suspension at standard ride height and Stage 1 upgraded brakes with larger front callipers, ensuring optimal handling and stopping power. With all-terrain, TA Goodrich tyres on 18-inch lightweight wheels in anthracite and an upgraded engine cooling system, featuring a full alloy radiator and electric cooling fans, the Defender ensures reliable performance – both inside and out – under all conditions.

    John Sawbridge, Managing Director of Kingsley Re-Engineered continued, saying: “Every Kingsley build goes through a meticulous restoration process – we leave no stone unturned. This includes everything from removing corrosion from the donor chassis to ensure long-term durability and protection for future custodians, to full internal wax protection of the chassis and panels, alongside our proprietary future-proofing techniques. We don’t just build cars for today – we build them for tomorrow and generations to come.”

    Bespoke customer optimisation
    Customisation options are extensive, allowing customers to tailor their Defender to their specific preferences in both D90 and D110 configurations. Roof choices include hard top, panoramic glass, open top with bikini cover, and full canvas covering. Other enhancements include heated seats, tyre pressure monitoring systems, and various audio solutions, ensuring each build is uniquely tailored. Additional options such as big brake kits, and other petrol powered V8 engine choices provide further personalisation.

    Since its inception, Kingsley has restored, rebuilt, and maintained over 500 classic Range Rovers and iconic Land Rovers, establishing itself as a leader and specialist in the field. Now, under new ownership and management, Kingsley is poised to usher in a new era of classic automotive excellence. With significant investment in product lines, customer experience, and bespoke specifications, the company is set to elevate these iconic vehicles further. This comprehensive investment programme is already underway, with the new line of Defenders powering this new chapter in Kingsley’s second decade of operations

    Building on this momentum, Kingsley’s new group ownership are dedicated to merging the fundamental attributes of bespoke builds with a world-class standard, ensuring unmatched, customisation and functionality. The newly appointed custodians, deeply passionate about classic Range Rovers and the iconic Land Rover marque, are committed to not only elevating Kingsley’s legacy and craftsmanship but also to extending its brand and focusing on continued innovation. This forward-thinking approach ensures limitless possibilities for bespoke personalisation, offering a sense of freedom for experienced clients with a global outlook.

    Debuting the new Defender series at this year’s prestigious Salon Privé Blenheim Palace Concours 2024, the D90 model will be on display from today to 31 August 2024. This exclusive event, renowned for showcasing the finest in automotive luxury, provides the perfect platform to unveil Kingsley’s reimagined Defenders to a discerning audience. Guests will have the opportunity to experience firsthand the craftsmanship, engineering and customisation that define Kingsley’s approach to restoring and re-engineering this British icon.

    The new Kingsley Defender series, available in both D90 and D110 configurations, is now available to order for worldwide delivery. Prices start from £140,000 plus VAT, with all builds continuing to be hand-crafted from Kingsley’s Oxfordshire-based HQ. To build your own, explore the bespoke options of a Kingsley Defender using the online configurator here. For any enquiries, or to book a test drive, please contact the sales team at +44 (0) 1865 884 488 or email sales@kingsleycars.co.uk.

  • Tailored on a Budget: Suzuka Grey 2018 Audi S5 Coupé

    Tailored on a Budget: Suzuka Grey 2018 Audi S5 Coupé

    One of the things we love about market watching for tailored automobiles is when we find an exceptionally cool spec out there on the market and priced so that even someone on a budget can pick up something bespoke. Take for example this 2019 Audi S5 Coupé (VIN# WAUR4AF53JA073988) in what appears to be Audi exclusive Suzuka Grey Metallic that just dropped in the pre-owned fleet of Audi Minneapolis.

    The color confirmation is a little confusing because the dealer’s own website (HERE) lists the car as Daytona Grey Pearl. Photos show it’s clearly not that darker grey initially made popular on early R8s and B7 RS 4 models. It’s also not white, that we’d forgive you for mistaking given the lightness of the shade. No, another listing site we use (shhh, it’s our secret weapon) confirms the car as both Audi exclusive and Suzuka Grey.

    Suzuka Grey is another early Audi R8 and B7 RS 4 color, though even more rare. It’s also super light, with just a hint of blue or lavender depending on the angle. Nowadays, Suzuka is still used on cars like the RS e-tron GT, and Audi Japan just revealed their own special edition A8 Gran Turismo Limited available in Suzuka Grey as well. As Audi exclusive paint colors go, it’s popular amongst Audi fans though a bit obscure outside the orbit of the four rings.

    Given the popularity at Audi, Suzuka is not an uncommon choice amongst exclusive colors from Audi’s palette. That its’ painted here on an early B9 Audi S5 Coupe is also sweet. Audi has just recently ended production on coupe versions of the A5/S5/RS 5, meaning cars like this are probably destined to be even more coveted by enthusiasts. That this one is a fully-loaded Prestige package with black leather and carbon fiber trim cement it as a very desirable spec. That it’s a first year for the B9 S5 with 3.0-liter Turbocharged V6 makes it both the first year for the current B9 generation (pre-facelift of course) assures us it should be priced affordably. In that it’s priced at $35,299 as of this writing, and with 34,365 miles we’d argue these make it an exceptionally approachable specimen should you wish to step into a special build from Audi exclusive.

    Check out the dealer’s listing with more photos HERE.

  • Lamborghini Spotlights Excellence in Performance During 73rd Annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

    Lamborghini Spotlights Excellence in Performance During 73rd Annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

    The all-new Temerario showcased at the Lamborghini Lounge and on the famed Concept Lawn

    [source: Lamborghini]

    Sant’Agata Bolognese/Pebble Beach, California, 19 August 2024 – For Monterey Car Week 2024, Automobili Lamborghini welcomed VIP guests to the exclusive Lamborghini Lounge Monterey, a private villa transformed into a curated brand experience that not only reflects modern Italian heritage but embraces pushing boundaries in “driving humans beyond”. The newly unveiled Lamborghini Temerario[1] was featured at the Lamborghini Lounge in two new dedicated colors, Blu Marinus (blue) and Verde Mercurius (green), which for the first time will also be available at launch with the ‘Alleggerita’ (lightweight) package for customers more inclined to track driving.

    The Temerario represents the new benchmark in the super sports car segment, thanks to its best-in-class performance. Throughout the weekend at the Lamborghini Lounge, guests had the opportunity to dive deeper into why the new Temerario is so unique. A mixed reality (MR) immersive experience enabled them to see virtual elements alongside the physical car, including aerodynamics and the impressive engine detail.

    To celebrate excellence in performance Lamborghini also exhibited its latest models that together with Temerario, complete the hybridization of the brand’s line-up. The Urus SE[2], the first PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) version of the luxury Super SUV, and the Revuelto[3], the first HPEV (High Performance Electrified Vehicle) hybrid super sports car delivering 1015 CV were both on view. Guests experienced Lamborghini’s new collaboration with the luxury Italian audio brand Sonus faber, delivering an exclusive in-car sound system demonstration for the Revuelto featuring Italian artistry and high-quality craftsmanship.

    Lamborghini Squadra Corse showcased three motorsports models including the SC63, the first Lamborghini hybrid racecar prototype that debuted earlier this year in both FIA World Endurance Championship and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. The SC63 was accompanied by the Huracán GT3 EVO2, designed and developed by Lamborghini Squadra Corse based on the Huracán STO, and the Huracán Super Trofeo EVO2, the most high-performance version ever designed to race in the one-make series. Additionally, Roger Dubuis, which is closely aligned with the world of racing, presented their latest super charged timepiece, the Excalibur Spider Flyback Chronograph. Inspired by supercar engineering, the timepiece races at full speed toward the future of Hyper Horology and a tribute to Roger Dubuis long-lasting partnership with Lamborghini Squadra Corse. For the occasion, Roger Dubuis has adorned the new 45mm timepiece in the same Verde Mantis shade that’s on the SC63 racecar.

    Each year the Pebble Beach Concours draws together thousands of the world’s automotive enthusiasts and experts who value the tradition of elegance in automobiles. On the 35th anniversary of the Pebble Beach Concept Lawn, which showcases the most anticipated concepts and dreams of tomorrow, the Lamborghini Temerario stood out to the crowd with its technical and stylistic innovation. The finest collector cars also gather on the 18th fairway of the renowned Pebble Beach Golf Links to compete to be named Best in Show. Both Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, along with Design Director, Mitja Borkert, returned again this year as Honorary Judges to serve in Sunday’s ceremonies.

    [1] The vehicle is not yet offered for sale and is therefore not subject to Directive 1999/94 EC. The fuel consumption and emissions data are in the type of approval stage.

    [2] Consumption and emission values of Urus SE: Combined fuel consumption: 2,08 l/100km; Combined power consumption: 39,5 kWh/100 Km; Combined CO2 emissions: 51,25 g/km; Combined CO2 efficiency class: B; Combined fuel consumption with discharged battery: 12,9 l/100km; Combined CO2 emissions and discharged battery efficiency classes: G; [WLTP].

    [3] Consumption and emission values of Revuelto: Combined fuel consumption: 11,86 l/100km; Combined power consumption: 10,1 kWh/100 Km; Combined CO2 emissions: 276 g/km; Combined CO2 efficiency class: G; Combined fuel consumption with discharged battery: 17,8 l/100km; Combined CO2 emissions and discharged battery efficiency classes: G; [WLTP].

  • Market Find: Paint to Sample 1992 Porsche 911 (964) in Marble Grey with Exclusive Interior Touches

    Market Find: Paint to Sample 1992 Porsche 911 (964) in Marble Grey with Exclusive Interior Touches

    With so many 964 era Porsche 911s getting snapped up for bespoke builds from the likes of Singer, RWB and more, clean examples of coupes are becoming harder and harder to find. Make them later production years (1992-1994) when Porsche was on the ropes, low mileage or laden with exclusive paint or interior trim and you have something extra special. You have cars like this Marble Grey example found over at Ryan Friedman Motor Cars in Glen Cove, NY.

    This is a one-owner Carrera 4 (all-wheel drive) example (VIN# WP0AB2969NS420563), with desirable 5-speed manual transmission and with just 38,149 miles logged. It’s the further specification from the factory though that really grabs our attention.

    That Paint to Sample Marble Grey almost seems to harken more modern Porsche uber light grey colors like Chalk, Crayon or Fashion Grey. It’s reportedly the only car of its kind to leave the factory in this shade.

    The original owner didn’t just stop at a unique paint color though. Subtle touches enrich the cabin, including matching Marble Grey piping around the black leather seats. It also gets additional leather trreatment on the doors, dashboard and center console, plus a wooden shift knob and e-brake handle that would have otherwise been leather as standard from the factory.

    Ryan Friedman Motorcars shares the full build list, so we’ve included it here:

    Featured equipment/factory-ordered options: L998 – paint to sample (Marble Grey); VD – black; C02 – US Standard Emissions; XC9 – Dark Rootwood Shift Knob; XD4 – Wheel caps with colored Porsche crest; XF6 – Leather covered panel of the center console (under handbrake lever); XF7 – Leather covered tray behind parking brake; X09 – Special center console; X32 – Dark Rootwood parking brake lever; 331 – Cassette-radio Becker Porsche CR-1; 383 – Sports seat, left, electrical height adjustment; 387 – Sports seat, right, electrical height adjustment; 454  – Automatic speed control; 494 Amplifier; 650 – Sun-moon-roof.

    Want to learn more about the car or see more photos? Check out the listing on the dealer’s website HERE.