Wanderlust

Tag: blue

  • ‘Holy Grail’ Specification Ferrari F355 Now Available at Bell Sport & Classic

    ‘Holy Grail’ Specification Ferrari F355 Now Available at Bell Sport & Classic

    • Outstanding 1995 Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, originally owned by acclaimed musician Chris Rea offered for sale by Ferrari marque experts, Bell Sport & Classic
    • Understood to be a unique “1 of 1” car finished in Blu Scuro Micalizzato
    • Iconic model poised to turn 30 years old and achieve genuine classic Ferrari status
    • ‘Holy grail’ specification most sought-after by collectors: six-speed manual, early ‘2.7 Motronic’ Berlinetta, non-airbag, finished in Blu Scuro Micalizzato over Crema
    • Comprehensively refreshed by Bell Sport & Classic’s sector-leading technical team, led by former-Maranello personnel who worked on such cars in period
    • Reaffirms Bell Sport & Classic’s status as the leading destination for classic and modern Ferraris

    [source: Bell Sport & Classic]

    Markyate, Hertfordshire, UK – Bell Sport & Classic brings to market what is perhaps the world’s finest example of the iconic Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, presented in exceptional condition and ‘holy grail’ collector specification, previously owned by musician and Ferrari aficionado Chris Rea.

    The exceptional example is offered for sale by the world-leading Ferrari specialists, just as enthusiasts prepare to celebrate the 355’s 30th anniversary, with the model joining the rarefied ranks of bona fide Maranello classics.

    A highly collectable early-production run F355 Berlinetta, the car presents in superb condition after a comprehensive mechanical and cosmetic refresh by Bell Sport & Classic’s renowned specialist Ferrari technical team, which is led by former Maranello factory personnel.

    Tim Kearns, Managing Director, Bell Sport & Classic, said: “We’re proud to offer this ultra-desirable example of the Ferrari F355. This sale represents a rare opportunity to acquire the 355 everyone wants: an early right-hand drive, ‘2.7 Motronic’, non-airbag, manual Berlinetta in a timeless specification. The model also has a compelling backstory, purchased new by noted Ferrari collector, Chris Rea. 

    “This 355 represents the ‘holy grail’ for Ferrari collectors– a useable example of Maranello’s mid-engined masterpiece, in its purest, most intoxicating form. In terms of design, technical innovation, performance, and handling, the F355 easily eclipsed the competition when it was launched and still offers a beguiling and wholly immersive driving experience today. As the F355 reaches its 30th anniversary, it also represents an astute investment.”

    The F355 Backstory
    Introduced at the 1994 Geneva International Motor Show, the F355 made an immediate impact on media, Ferrari owners and the public alike. A replacement for the somewhat underwhelming 348, the F355 was a true game changer; a harder-hitting, more modern mid-engined Ferrari that was just as wonderful to drive as it was to look at.

    Kearns, comments: “As the F355 reaches this landmark anniversary, now is the perfect time to take stock of just what a significant car it was for Ferrari. The F355 holds a special place in the marque’s history, emerging at a crucial moment for the brand, signalling the return of Ferrari technical, design and sheer driver engagement dominance after a period, some would argue, of drift and mediocrity. 

    “The F355 is highly significant: the car that the then new CEO Luca di Montezemolo delivered to bring the passion back to Ferrari, and the last of the truly hand-built V8 Ferraris. For many, the model represents a high-point for the marque – particularly in its early and purest form. It offers the perfect blend of old and new, combining contemporary performance with captivating analogue character – all wrapped up in a beautifully proportioned Pininfarina body. As a package, it really is hard to resist.”

    At the F355’s heart as with all Ferraris, is the engine, a flat plane crank V8 masterpiece. An engineering tour de force which, at the time of the car’s debut, delivered the highest specific output of any road car (107bhp per litre) – eclipsing even the mighty BMW V12 of the McLaren F1. With titanium con-rods, and five valves per cylinder, hugely innovative technology inspired by Ferrari’s Formula One programme, the F129B engine produced 375bhp at a heady 8250rpm – all from just 3.5 litres of displacement. So proud was Ferrari of this F1-inspired engine that the F355 Berlinetta’s model name unusually comes from a combination displacement and the number of valves per cylinder – ‘3.5 5’.

    With the ability to surge to 62mph in a mere 4.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 184mph, the performance of the F355 was in a different league to not just that of the 312bhp 348 that preceded it, but also contemporary rivals such as the Honda NSX, Lotus Esprit and Porsche 911 993.

    The chassis of the Ferrari F355 was equally important to the car’s phenomenal performance, offering nimble mid-engined handling. Double wishbone suspension, electronically adjustable, two-stage dampers and hydraulic power steering lent a dash of modern sophistication to the classic Italian supercar recipe. Compared to its predecessor it was faster, safer, more comfortable, and genuinely a car that could be used daily, whether charging up the Col de Turini or commuting into the city.

    The F355 was, as Autocar concluded in its 1994 road test, “a landmark car”, while Jeremy Clarkson hailed the 355 as “The greatest car in the world, ever”. It’s a car that only looks more significant as the years go by.

    Kearns adds: “The F355 Berlinetta’s game changing technical innovations, higher production volumes and overall bandwidth paved the way for successive Ferrari models to be truly great cars. One could argue that it’s the most significant car in Ferrari’s history. With almost 30 years to reflect on the car’s impact, the 355 is ready to assume genuine classic status as it reaches this landmark anniversary.”

    The ex-Chris Rea F355
    This original, right-hand drive UK car offered by Bell Sport & Classic was ordered new by musician Chris Rea, a well-known and highly regarded Ferrari enthusiast, via Maranello Sales. An early 1995 example, it features the desirable Bosh ‘2.7 Motronic’ ECU system, which improved throttle response and was also rumoured to offer more power – as much as 30bhp, according to some experts. As a sought-after non-airbag car, this example also sports the more driver-focussed Momo steering wheel, lending the cabin a clean and timeless look.

    Specified in the rare colour of Blu Scuro Micalizzato over Crema hide with Blu carpets, the car covered just 25,500 miles before being the subject of a comprehensive refresh by Bell’s team of sector-leading experts, at its state-of-the-art Hertfordshire facility. Bell Sport & Classic is renowned worldwide for its peerless restoration and refurbishment expertise, with a technical team of Ferrari trained experts, who worked on F355s in period. In recent years, the company has garnered international acclaim for numerous Ferrari projects including the sensational remastering of a 330 LMB, an extraordinary nut-and-bolt restoration of both an ultra-rare, L-Series 246 Dino GT and a Concours winning Ferrari 330 GTC.

    As with all cars the company offers for sale, Bell Sport & Classic’s technicians have gone through this F355 from top to bottom. Their approach ensures that the car is in exceptional mechanical condition. The same care has been lavished on the F355 cosmetically, both inside and out, with paintwork brought up to the very highest standards in its original Ferrari factory colour, reconolisation of the beautiful cream leather interior, and the crucial refresh of all switchgear, so often the Achilles’ heel of cars from this era.

    Kearns concludes: “At Bell Sport and Classic we’re accustomed to handling and restoring the very finest Ferraris, from the ‘60s classics right up to the contemporary hypercars. This F355 ranks among the best we’ve encountered. The team has, as ever, put everything into the painstaking recommissioning process, and the results speak for themselves. This F355 is the perfect example of a truly great Ferrari, one that can hold its own in the world’s most exclusive collections. Now presenting in perfect condition, this unmodified example of an iconic model, in the ultimate specification with a compelling backstory, is ready to be enjoyed by its new owner.”

    About Bell Sport & Classic
    Bell Sport & Classic is a team of experts who have come together to provide customers unrivalled expertise across the sales, service and restoration of the world’s most revered classic and modern classic cars, specialising primarily in notable Ferraris.

    Authenticity, originality, and quality are the bedrocks of the business; Bell Sport & Classic prides itself on sourcing the ultimate in collector cars and bringing new standards to classic car restorations. Bell Sport & Classic stands apart in the classic car world as an innovator and leader in customer service.

    Vehicle Details
  • Bentley Zurich Celebrates Centenary with a Mulliner Anniversary Collection

    Bentley Zurich Celebrates Centenary with a Mulliner Anniversary Collection

    • Special Bentley Mulliner 100 Anniversary Collection to celebrate the centenary of Bentley retail partner in Zurich 
    • Luxury quartet based on Bentayga S, Flying Spur Speed, Continental GT and GTC Speed models
    • Limited Edition models are result of a collaboration with Mulliner who worked on a co-creation with unique features: exterior colour, treadplates, ‘100’ welcome lamps and embroidered ‘100’ headrest emblems
    • Anniversary coincides with important moment in Bentley history
    • Bentley Zurich has been operated by Schmohl AG since 1950

    [source: Bentley]

    Münich, Germany –  Bentley Motors is celebrating the centenary of its retail partner in Zurich, Schmohl AG, with a quartet of luxury cars. The uniquely-styled 100 Anniversary Collection is based on four Bentley models – the Bentayga S luxury SUV, the Flying Spur Speed four-door sedan, as well as the Continental GT and GTC Speed definitive grand tourers.

    Each example is handcrafted in Crewe, England, by Mulliner, Bentley’s in-house personalisation and bespoke department. For the 100 Anniversary Collection range, Mulliner has developed a new Slate Blue Metallic exterior paint and matching Slate Blue Metallic Styling Specification, with personalised ‘100’ welcome lamps. The Flying Spur Speed, GT and GTC Speed examples also benefit from a bootlid spoiler. Personalised ‘100’ welcome lamps greet both driver and passengers as they step in or out of the 100 Anniversary Collection models.

    Inside each exquisitely appointed cabin, the 100 Anniversary Collection cars are crafted with Cognac main hide and Beluga secondary hide, with Diamond Quilt contrast stitching. Personalised embroidered ‘100’ headrest emblems adorn the seats, while Piano Black over Copper Stone dual finish veneer complements the dashboard and doors, with Diamond Knurling Specification to brightwork as standard. 

    Talking about the centenary, Roderick Pike, General Manager of Bentley Zurich, explains: 

    “A centenary is a key milestone and a special celebration. Schmohl AG was formed in 1923, the same year the Bentley 3 Litre became the brand’s first car to compete at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, setting the fastest lap in the process. The new 100 Anniversary Collection cars reflect a proud partnership with Bentley, offering unique features to honour our special relationship.”

    Balazs Rooz, Regional Director of Bentley Motors Europe, added:

    “We are delighted to be celebrating this milestone with Bentley Zurich who have been with us since 1950. Switzerland is an important market for Bentley Motors Europe and with this collection we honour and highlight our achievements over the years. At the same time, with our Beyond100 strategy we are also looking forward towards an electrified range by 2024.”

  • McLaren Formula 1 Star Lando Norris Collects his Specially-Commissioned MSO McLaren 765LT Spider

    McLaren Formula 1 Star Lando Norris Collects his Specially-Commissioned MSO McLaren 765LT Spider

    • McLaren Formula 1 star designed 765LT Spider to his specification
    • McLaren special Operations (MSO) realises design using specialist craftmanship skills available to all McLaren customers
    • Lando’s McLaren 765LT Spider is one of just 765 cars with scintillating performance, ultra-light weight and engaging track-focused dynamics
    • Watch Lando collect his personalised McLaren 765LT Spider at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azuJ5QJvfjw 

    Formula 1 star Lando Norris has collected his own McLaren 765LT Spider, personalised by McLaren Special Operations (MSO) and originally presented to him at the McLaren Production Centre in Woking, England.

    The 23-year-old chose a unique specification for his car, heavily influenced by his personal branding. The MSO Lando Norris 1 of 1 is instantly recognisable by its Gloss Blue Tint Visual Carbon Fibre exterior with contrasting Satin Visual Carbon Fibre details, which echoes the lightweight and strong material that has formed the basis of all McLaren road and race cars since the revolutionary MP4/1 Formula 1 car in 1981.

    The distinctive exterior finish of Lando’s 765LT is complemented by Satin Black wheels and is contrasted by Lando Yellow brake calipers, the same colour used for Lando’s own four stripe Graphic – reflecting his race number – which appears above the right-side eye socket and under the active rear wing, the latter feature visible only during high-downforce deployment. The wing also features MSO branding in Gloss Blue Tint Visual Carbon Fibre on a Satin Carbon Fibre insert on its upper surface.

    Other external features include all three Carbon Fibre Exterior Upgrade Packs, which incorporates the Front Splitter, Front fenders & Rear Diffuser, Air Intakes, Side Skirts and Door Mirrors. The roof Tonneau and Rear Aero Bridge are also finished in MSO Defined Carbon Fibre. The exterior is finished with the MSO Defined Carbon Fibre Hood, adorned with a lightweight Dark Chrome McLaren badge. In addition, the Stealth Pack adds a discreet finish to the Rear Wing mechanism and the Titanium Exhaust’s signature quad-exit.

    The interior continues Lando’s colour scheme, which is visible from the outside when the Retractable Hard Top – featuring a glass Electrochromic Roof – is lowered. The Carbon Fibre Racing Seats are trimmed in Navy Blue with Napier Stitching. In addition, the head rests are embroidered with Lando’s personal initial ‘LN4’ branding. There are also Navy Blue Alcantara and Napier Stitching highlights on the door and dash trim and the door appliques have a painted white pinstripe.

    There are additional hidden interior features, most noticeably the MSO Custom Dark Tint Carbon Union Flag Sill with Lando Graphic visible when opening the doors. Below the MSO Custom Steering Wheel with Blue Tint Carbon Fade, 12 O’Clock Marker in white and Lando Yellow Lando Graphic, is the MSO Custom Floor Mat – repeated on the passenger side – with LN4 branding and Napier Stitching, placed ahead of Blue Anodised Pedals. The distractive interior is completed with a unique MSO Dedication Plaque confirming the exclusive commission by Lando.

    The personalisation is complete with the keyfob finished in Gloss Blue Tint Visual Carbon Fibre with Lando Graphic in Lando Yellow.

    The McLaren 765LT is the latest car to carry the hallowed Longtail name, which was first associated with the legendary McLaren F1 GTR in 1997. The 765LT is powered by a 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine developing 765PS and 800Nm, delivering a blistering acceleration time of 0-200km/h in just seven seconds. Astonishing levels of driver engagement, ultra-light weight and sophisticated track-developed suspension contribute to a thrilling driving experience.

    With just 765 examples made – all of which have been sold – Lando’s McLaren 765LT Spider is one of the most exclusive of the production run. Watch Lando collect his car at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azuJ5QJvfjw 

    About McLaren Group: 
    The McLaren Group is a global leader in luxury automotive and elite motorsports with a focus on its Automotive supercar and Racing businesses.

    Founded in 1963 by racer, engineer and entrepreneur Bruce McLaren, the Group is formed of McLaren Automotive, which hand-builds lightweight supercars; and a majority stake in McLaren Racing which competes in the Formula 1 World Championship and INDYCAR in the US.

    The Group is globally headquartered at the iconic McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, England.

    With a reputation for innovation and technological excellence, McLaren is one of the UK’s largest independent companies.

  • Mulliner Celebrates New Commissioning Milestone at Bentley

    Mulliner Celebrates New Commissioning Milestone at Bentley

    • 2022 proves the most successful year for Mulliner Bespoke with over 500 personal commission projects created within 12 calendar months
    • Previous milestone of 1000 Mulliner Bespoke commissions between 2014 to 2021
    • Dedicated Mulliner Design team facilitate the increasing demand for bespoke services 
    • Bentleys ordered with bespoke content has increased fivefold since 2018
    • Options revenue per car up 36% in same period
    • 500th commission is Flying Spur S Hybrid in new Spark Blue, reflecting increasing demand in individuality and personalisation
    • 25 satin paints now available including new Marlin Blue and Alpine Green, reflecting the increased uptake of satin exterior finishes globally

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England – The Mulliner Design team celebrates a new milestone in personal commissions, after creating 500 unique Mulliner Bentley projects for customers around the world in just 12 calendar months. The team’s portfolio includes coachbuilt cars such as the Batur, heritage limited editions including the Blower, and a wide variety of stunning and unique customer projects. 

    The 500th Mulliner commission is destined for a UK customer. One of the first Flying Spur S Hybrid to be personalised showcasing Spark (sparkblue; metallic UNI; 9561113; Bentley), a new Blue exterior colour. Complemented by Blackline specification exterior brightwork and 22” ten-spoke Sports wheels in black. The illuminated Flying B that surmounts the black radiator grille in gloss black completes the dramatic effect. 

    Inside, monochromatic high gloss carbon fibre veneer and diamond quilted Beluga hide upholstery bring out the jewel-like brilliance of the polished metal air vents, dial bezels and controls. This palette is brilliantly contrasted by flashes of Klein Blue hide on the seats and around the perimeter of the floor mats. Klein Blue hide is also used for the contrast steering wheel’s six o’clock spoke and gearlever – the sparing use of this colour making it all the more effective. 

    Established in 2014, the Mulliner Design team operates within the Bentley styling studio, ensuring that Bentley DNA is at the heart of every commission. The previous milestone for the team of 1,000 personal commissions took seven years to complete. This year’s stellar achievement of 500 individual projects reflects the growing demand for bespoke creativity, from satin paint finishes and bespoke colourways to intricate inlays and embroidery. 

    Paul Dickinson, Chief Commercial Officer Mulliner & Motorsport comments:

    “Reaching the milestone 500th Commission in a year would not have been possible without the ongoing support of both the main Bentley Design Studio and all the other functions of the wider Mulliner Team. 2021 had already been a record year for Mulliner Design that saw the team needing to grow by 50% to meet customer demands and in 2022 that team has really been tested as it has seen a year-on-year increase of 85% in customer / retailer commissions. Their hard work, dedication and passion to each and every one of these commissions means that we have never had such beautiful examples of personalisation leaving Crewe.”

    Inspired by the majestic marlin

    Mulliner commissions accommodate a broad spectrum of customer visions, from the wild colours of the Continental GT Convertible designed by Romero Britto and displayed at Miami Art Basel to the subtle sophistication of the ‘Surgeon’ Flying Spur in Anthracite and Bronze satin revealed at the same event. 

    Further 2022 highlights include a Continental GT commissioned by Bentley Tampa Bay. Its shimmering Marlin blue satin paint finish and polished steel brightwork are complemented by the Styling Specification’s front bumper splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser and boot lid spoiler. These are finished in a unique tri-colour coachline with the top face in Marlin Blue satin, a mid-layer pinstripe in Monaco Yellow satin and a bottom face in Arctica White satin, a colour scheme that vividly evokes the distinctive colours of the blue marlin, one of the fastest fish on the planet. 

    Inside, a bespoke colour split uses Mulliner White main hide with Imperial Blue as the secondary hide. The choice of Signal Yellow seat piping echoes the exterior’s tri-colour theme; the same shade is also used as a fine pinstripe between the dual veneer fascia and waist rails in Piano Marlin satin over Piano Mulliner White. Diamond quilted areas on the Mulliner White door panels and seats are stitched in alternating Imperial blue and Signal Yellow, and the centre console is finished in bright tint engine spin. 

    Subtle perfection in Arctica and Dragonfly

    Another 2022 commission that makes understated use of a contrast colour is a Continental GT Convertible commissioned by Bentley Naples in Florida. With its Blackline specification brightwork, 22” Speed wheels in gloss black and solid Arctica White exterior finish it is the epitome of sophistication, where the eye is drawn to the Dragonfly Blue pinstripe that edges the Styling Specification’s body kit. 
    On entering the cockpit, the main and secondary hide colours of Arctic and Porpoise are enlivened by an accent hide in Dragonfly, creating a bespoke colour split. The dual veneer fascia and waist rails are in high gloss Piano Dragonfly over Piano Arctica white, matched to the hide colours. A fine Beluga painted pinstripe separates the two Piano veneers. Finishing touches include embroidered Bentley emblems on each seat headrest in Dragonfly and bespoke Naples Arctica Collection treadplates. 

    Lunar inspiration for four remarkable Bentayga commissions. 

    Our planetary close cousin the moon has long fascinated artists and astronomers alike. Its ghostly light has inspired a series of four darkly compelling Bentayga designs commissioned by Bentley Tampa Bay named the Ominous Collection. 

    All four designs feature bespoke ‘Ominous Collection’ treadplates and seat insert embroidery that features the phases of the moon from new moon to waning crescent. For symmetry, the embroidered moon phases on the left-hand seats mirror those on the right. 

    Exterior colour schemes include a Bentayga Azure in Titan Grey with Blackline Specification and Mandarin pinstripe on the Styling Specification body kit. Its interior maintains the low-key mood with satin carbon fibre to all veneered surfaces and upholstery in Beluga. A flash of brilliance is provided by the contrast stitching in Mandarin, which is used for the diamond quilting on seat uppers and door inserts. Mandarin is also employed as an accent colour on the steering wheel 6 o’clock tab and console. 
    Mandarin takes centre stage as the main exterior finish on the second of the Ominous Bentayga models, which again uses satin carbon fibre veneer and Beluga upholstery relieved by Mandarin contrast stitching for the interior scheme. 

    The third design takes Oxford Blue as its exterior finish, with an interior based on Mulliner’s colour split B. Newly developed Ocean Blue, is the main hide with Beluga as the secondary hide and contrast stitching in White. Unusually, the Piano gloss veneered surfaces are in Ocean blue, carefully colour matched to the main hide. 

    The final Ominous Collection Bentayga features a bespoke two-tone exterior in Onyx over Verdant, with 22” ten-spoke directional wheels in black. Inside, Cumbrian green is used as the main hide with Beluga on secondary surfaces. Fascia and waist rails are in gloss carbon fibre, while the seats and doors feature twin stitched palm fluting in a bespoke shade of green alternating with Portland. Hand cross stitching is in Portland throughout the cabin. 

  • Palette of Pastels for Bentley Beverly Hills

    Palette of Pastels for Bentley Beverly Hills

    • Three new, curated and pastel-coloured Continental GTCs for Bentley Beverley Hills showcase Mulliner design and craftsmanship
    • Jetstream II, Sage Green and bespoke Hollywood Blush Pink combine to form a unique and striking trio
    • Customer demand for Mulliner features and individuality continues to expand exponentially
    • Special paint finish orders more than double since 2020
    • Mulliner personal commission orders triple in two years

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England – Bentley Beverly Hills has used the dizzying portfolio of finishes, materials and features on offer via Bentley Mulliner to commission a limited edition of three Continental GTC Speed models in colours and finishes that recall the golden age of Hollywood. 

    1920’s residents such as Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, Will Rogers and Rudolph Valentino gave Beverley Hills a cachet that it has never lost, and the colours of that Art Deco era have been brilliantly evoked in the Jetstream Blue, Sage Green and Hollywood Blush Pink finishes of the three Mulliner Bentleys. 

    The first of the three Beverley Hills special edition Continental GTC Speed models features Jetstream II blue finish for both the bodywork and the 22” ten-spoke wheels, with the subtlest of pinstripes to the wheel edge. Highlights of the interior include Linen main hide and contrast stitching with secondary hide in Imperial Blue. Sweeping from waist rail to waist rail across the dashboard is a high gloss Piano Linen over Imperial Blue dual veneer. All models feature the Styling, Touring and City specifications and as a subtle nod to Hollywood’s golden era the words ‘The Beverly Hills’ are rendered in a ‘30s typeface on the illuminated sill plate.

    The second of the three Beverly Hills commissions mirrors the specification of the first, but with the pastel tone of Sage Green as the dominant exterior colour on bodywork and wheels. The interior’s dual colour split features Cumbrian Green and Linen, with the same two colours inventively used as a dual veneer on dash and waist rails. 

    The final Beverly Hills commission of the trio is finished in a subtle, pale ‘Hollywood Blush’ pink. A harmonious contrast is provided by the sumptuous interior, with Linen as the main hide and the deep red Cricketball hide as the secondary contrast. The same two colours are selected for the dual veneer on dashboard and waistrails. 

    Describing the inspiration for the three-car Beverly Hills Collection, Danika Quinn, Bentley Brand Manager comments:    

    “Beverly Hills has always been the epitome of glamour, particularly during Hollywood’s Golden Age. This collection is a nod to the bygone era of Old Hollywood encapsulating the spirit of that time; bold white wall tires, soft colour palettes and unique designs that illustrate the “class” of classic cars. The experts at Bentley Mulliner brought my vision to life and helped curate a masterpiece collection for Bentley Beverly Hills that not only exemplifies the allure and grandeur of yesteryear, but also one that highlights the refinement and grace of modern-day Bentley craftsmanship.”

    With its W12 engine delivering 659 PS (650 bhp), a 0-60 mph sprint time of 3.6 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds) and a top speed of 208 mph (335 km/h) the Continental GT Speed Convertible sits alongside its coupe sibling at the performance pinnacle of the Continental GT family. The Beverly Hills Collection shows what can be achieved through the Mulliner personal commissioning process, where customer, retailer and Mulliner’s design team collaborate to create truly unique cars. 

    Bentley and Mulliner: a 99-year partnership

    Mulliner’s association with Bentley goes back to the earliest days of the company. Now Bentley’s in-house personal commission division, Mulliner plays a key role in defining the company’s future design DNA, as demonstrated to stunning effect by the extraordinary new Batur coupé. From special features and finishes to unique and limited-edition coachbuilt vehicles, the Mulliner name continues to represent the ultimate in Bentley design and craftsmanship.

    Customers are showing an increasing appreciation of the individuality that a Mulliner feature can bring to their chosen Bentley. Since 2020, the percentage of Bentleys with specific Mulliner features continues to grow. The demand for Mulliner special paint finishes has more than doubled; and the number of Mulliner personal commissions, bringing a truly individual vision to life in the Mulliner atelier, has tripled. 

    Regional teams are also taking advantage of the unique ability to curate bespoke collections, specific to their own customers interests and passions.

    Originally founded in 1760 with a contract to provide coaches for the Royal Mail, the Northampton-based firm of F. Mulliner was still making horse-drawn carriages as the 20th century dawned. It took the vision of pioneer motorist Henry Jervis Mulliner to propel them into the automotive age. His coachbuilding business H.J. Mulliner established close ties with Bentley Motors, starting with the coachwork for a Bentley 3 Litre at the 1923 Olympia Motor Show. Thus began a family tree of Mulliner Bentleys whose highlights include the Speed Six Saloon in which Woolf Barnato beat the Blue Train, and the inspired synthesis of lightweight materials and aerodynamic design that was the 1952 R Type Continental.

    As well as offering curated Bentley models such as the Continental GT Mulliner, Flying Spur Mulliner and Bentayga Mulliner, the division is the home of Bentley’s most exclusive vehicles, both recreating the distant past of the company and exploring its future design direction.  

    The craftsmen and women of Mulliner Classic painstakingly recreate legendary Bentleys from the past, including the recent series of twelve 4½ Litre Supercharged ‘Blower’ Bentleys based upon the company’s own Birkin Team Car. Last year, Mulliner Classic embarked on its most ambitious and challenging project to date: the resurrection of a truly legendary coachbuilt Bentley, the 6½ litre Bentley Speed Six works racing specification.

    In contrast to the work of Mulliner Classic, Mulliner Coachbuilt looks to the future, researching and developing new and sustainable luxury materials and bringing to life the vision of Bentley’s design team. Two such examples are the Bentley Mulliner Bacalar, a two-seat barchetta created as an edition of twelve, and the Bentley Mulliner Batur, a limited edition of 18 hand-built coupés unveiled at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance 2022. Already sold out, Batur affords a glimpse of the road ahead for the styling, features and materials that will define Bentley in the years to come.

  • Singer Presents Turbo Study at The Quail, A Motorsport Gathering 2022

    Singer Presents Turbo Study at The Quail, A Motorsport Gathering 2022

    • A new chapter in Singer’s automotive services in collaboration with owners of the air-cooled, Type 964 Porsche 911
    • The first road-going, turbocharged Porsche 911 reimagined by Singer
    • Presented in Wolf Blue, with a specification focused on high-speed, luxury grand touring

    [source: Singer Vehicle Design]

    Los Angeles, CA — Singer returns to The Quail, A Motorsport Gathering for 2022 with the first restoration of a Type 964 Porsche 911 enabled by the results of the company’s Turbo Study.

    Singer’s Founder and Executive Chairman, Rob Dickinson notes, “The first Porsche 911 reimagined by Singer was presented during Monterey Car Week in 2009, so it’s fitting that we’re returning to The Quail this year to present our latest idea – in celebration of the iconic Porsche 930 Turbo. Singer is a philosophy and every car we restore encapsulates our unique perspectives, the personal vision of the owner, and a celebration of heritage – reimagined with twenty-first century engineering.”

    Turbo Study
    Making its North American debut is the Porsche 911 reimagined by Singer – Turbo Study.

    This next generation of services from Singer encompasses:

    • A celebration of the iconic, era-defining 930 Turbo, launched in 1975
    • Collaboration with owners of the Type 964 Porsche 911 on the first road-going restorations to feature forced-induction
    • Highly capable grand-touring, sports and everyday performance

    The car presented at The Quail has been specified using the results of the Turbo Study to reflect a personal vision. This owner has pursued a focus on high-performance, luxury grand touring capabilities, including:

    • 3.8L, twin turbocharged flat-six with air to water intercooling
    • 510 HP
    • 6-speed manual transmission
    • Rear-wheel-drive and touring-optimized suspension
    • Carbon-ceramic braking system
    • The iconic whale tail rear spoiler and shark fin air intake – reimagined
    • Lightweight carbon fiber bodywork in Wolf Blue
    • Interior presented in Sand with Black Forest wood accents

    Overview
    Founded in California in 2009, Singer has become globally known and respected for its celebration of the Porsche 911. The company undertakes bespoke restorations for owners of the air-cooled cars. Singer is guided by a philosophy that encompasses:

    • A passionate focus on iconic design and a homage to the world’s most iconic sportscars.
    • Highly personalized restorations with superlative attention to detail, guided by the Singer’s mantra Everything is Important.
    • Modern engineering and material science combined with beautifully executed interiors and jewel-like details.
    • A deep connection with California and its automotive zeitgeist.

    Over the past decade Singer has become a luxury brand with a global clientele and is now synonymous with the concept of Reimagining – bringing together heritage with twenty-first century engineering and material science. The brand has been growing beyond car culture, with an award-winning Swiss watchmaking division, Singer Reimagined, launched in 2017.

    About Singer Group, Inc.
    Singer Group, Inc. (Singer) restores and reimagines 1989 to 1994 Porsche 911s, based on the 964 chassis at the direction of its clients.  Singer does not manufacture or sell automobiles.  Singer’s Global Partner Network supports owners across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Australasia.

    Singer is not sponsored, associated, approved, endorsed nor, in any way, affiliated with Porsche Cars North America, Inc., or Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche, AG. The Porsche® name and crest, 911® and TARGA® are trademarks of Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG, and any other products mentioned are the trademarks of their respective holders. Any mention of trademarked names or other marks is for purpose of reference only. 

    The product of Singer’s painstaking effort is a Porsche 911 restored and reimagined by Singer.  Out of respect for Porsche, and to respect Porsche’s trademark rights, this incredible machine should never under any circumstances be referred to or described as a “Singer,” “Singer 911,” “Singer Porsche 911” or a “Porsche Singer 911,” or in any other manner that suggests that it is anything but a Porsche 911 that has been restored and reimagined by Singer.

  • Tailor Made Ferrari Roma

    Tailor Made Ferrari Roma

    A ONE-OF-A-KIND FERRARI EXPLORES PARALLELS BETWEEN ITALIAN AND JAPANESE DESIGN, CULTURE AND CRAFTS IN A CONTEMPORARY CREATIVE COLLABORATION

    [source: Ferrari]

    Maranello, 17 May 2022 – Ferrari unveils a one-of-a-kind Ferrari Roma model, crafted by its bespoke Tailor Made department. The car features exquisite traditional Japanese-inspired detailing while retaining the clean, sophisticated elegance of the original car.

    Ferrari Tailor Made is an exclusive programme for those who wish to customise each element of their Ferrari to create a vehicle that truly reflects their personality and tastes. Customers who participate in the Tailor Made programme are assisted by a team of experts led by a personal designer that interprets their desires whilst upholding the aesthetic standards of the Ferrari brand.

    This particular car’s story began when Evan Orensten and Josh Rubin, the founders of the award-winning independent US publication dedicated to design, culture and technology COOL HUNTING, were offered, and accepted, the opportunity of customising a Ferrari Roma, to explore how far Ferrari’s bespoke personalisation programme could go and really push the boundaries.

    They met Flavio Manzoni, Ferrari Chief Design Officer, in the Ferrari Tailor Made showroom in New York. They had just returned from several research trips to Japan where they had immersed themselves in the country’s traditional crafts and artisanal methods, and proposed bringing some of those ideas and unique materials into the Tailor Made journey as envisioned by COOL HUNTING.

    Flavio Manzoni and his team were inspired by the parallels between Italian and Japanese culture and design philosophy: a single-minded devotion to quality, an emotional involvement with the client, and exquisite skills in craftsmanship that have been passed down from generation to generation.

    An idea formed – to create a Ferrari featuring some of the unique materials developed from traditional Japanese techniques while employing Ferrari’s customary innovation to modify them to accommodate the requirements of durability and functionality that a modern high-performance car demands.

    Traditional Japanese indigo dyes inspired the Ferrari Roma’s colour scheme, particularly the vivid blue exterior paint which was specially developed for this car and named Indigo Metal. This vivid colour perfectly enhances the purity of the Ferrari Roma’s shape – light appears to flow over its bodywork, accentuating its lines through highlights and shade.

    Indigo features prominently in Japanese design culture, and the traditional dye is produced naturally. COOL HUNTING had visited Toyama, one of only five remaining indigo farms in Tokushima, Japan’s traditional indigo-growing region. They learned that the dye comes from a green plant which, when harvested and fermented, becomes sukumo, traditional dried Japanese indigo that is mixed with lye, sake and limestone powder to create authentic Hon-Ai indigo dye. Because of its antimicrobial properties it was traditionally used for linens, bedding and clothing.

    The same colour palette is used to tie together the vehicle’s exterior and interior into one subtle, holistic statement. The indigo shade is also found in the sakiori fabric used for the seat trim inserts and the carpets.

    Sakiori is one of the world’s oldest examples of upcycling, dating from the 1700s when cotton and silk were available only to Japan’s nobility and the very wealthy. Worn-out kimonos were disassembled, their fabric cut into strands and rewoven with new fibres, creating a material that was both warm, comfortable and durable. The word comes from the Japanese saku (to rip up) and oru (to weave).

    An innovative solution was identified in making sakiori a viable material. Two vintage kimonos originally made in Amami Oshima, an island in Japan’s southern archipelago were used—an indigo-dyed kimono approximately 75 years old and one approximately 45 years old, dyed in both indigo and the island’s celebrated Amami Oshima Tsumugi mud-based dye. Instead of weaving the kimono strands with cotton or silk as is traditional, it was woven with high-tensile nylon, ensuring the durability required of this material in its application inside the vehicle. This new textile was created in the same place the original materials originated from by Hajime Shoji.

    The indigo theme is carried through to the Ferrari Roma’s headlining – a beautifully detailed piece of craftsmanship and design which is exclusively experienced by those sitting in the car. It is comprised of two indigo-dyed hides made with Asai Roektsu in Kyoto—one with a unique solid colour crafted to match the car’s colour scheme, and a hand-painted hide using the Roketsu method, which can be traced back to the 8th century. It is a wax resist-dyeing method that forms intricate repeated patterns around a single colour, and was commonly used to decorate the silk or cotton of kimonos and obis. The hides were then sent to Italy, where they were cut into strips and hand-woven by Italian artisans in a process called intreccio, forming an elegant one-of-a-kind work of art.

    The Ferrari Roma’s interior door handles also take their inspiration from Japan – they are enclosed in tightly hand-woven strips of black leather in an homage to tsukami, the ancient art of wrapping the grips of Katana swords.

    The COOL HUNTING team were further inspired by a visit to Kaikado, a Kyoto-based family business known for its iconic copper tea canisters. Now made by the fifth and sixth generations of the family, the canisters are so skilfully crafted that they form a vacuum seal as the lid gently falls onto the body. The copper also adopts a unique natural patina with use. Inspired by this, Copper plating is found in details on the Ferrari Roma’s gear shift gate surround and levers, which were plated in Japan. The outline of the dual cockpits, the wheel rims and the kamon are also made in this colour.

    The unique crest on the car’s dedication plate on the central armrest and door sills is a custom-made “kamon,” a symbol passed down from generation to generation in Japan. Designed by Kyogen, it represents a wheel from an ox-drawn carriage (popular transportation among aristocrats during the Heian period, 794-1185) combined with the eight pistons of the Ferrari Roma’s V8 engine forming its spokes. The numeric theme is continued in the eight wave crests that encircle the wheel – symbols of good luck, power and resilience.

    This subtle but exceptionally detailed Ferrari Roma brings together Italian and Japanese design culture in a harmonious form. It is a beautiful example of the unlimited wealth of combinations and possibilities that are available through the Ferrari Tailor Made programme.

    The Ferrari Roma features refined proportions and timeless design combined with unparalleled performance and handling. Not only is the Ferrari Roma an icon of Italian design, but it also represents the pinnacle of performance in this category, thanks to its 620-cv turbo-charged V8 from the family of engines that won the overall International Engine of the Year award four years running.

    The Tailor Made Ferrari Roma Specially Crafted for COOL HUNTING will be on display in the Ferrari Tailor Made Showroom during the New York Design Week (NYC X DESIGN), celebrating the space where this incredibly dynamic collaboration started, bringing together diverse cultural and creative forces from different parts of the world in a unique and special way.

  • Audi USA Celebrates Final Model Year of TT RS with Limited “Heritage Edition”

    Audi USA Celebrates Final Model Year of TT RS with Limited “Heritage Edition”

    • Audi TT RS no longer offered after the 2022 model year in the U.S.
    • Five Audi heritage colors celebrate legendary five-cylinder engine and bids farewell to pinnacle performance of a design icon in the U.S. 
    • Limited number of just 50 (10 of each) color combinations available

    [source: Audi of America, Color Code Information Researched and Provided by Tailored Driver]

    HERNDON, VA – Today, Audi of America announces a limited offering of 50 special units of the 2022 Audi TT RS Heritage Edition that combines the power of the emotive Audi five-cylinder engine heritage along with the storied paint colors that once adorned the Audi Ur-quattro. While still available outside of the U.S., the 2022 Audi TT RS Heritage Edition signals the appropriate farewell to the remarkable high-performance coupe following the 2022 model year. The TT and TTS models will continue to be available in international markets and in the U.S. market.

    Five heritage color combinations celebrate the legendary five-cylinder engine
    For the 2022 model year, a limited number of just 50 highly collectible TT RS models will be available with the Heritage Edition nomenclature that blends five different exterior paints of the past that celebrate the heritage of the Audi Ur-quattro. The legendary Ur-quattro was powered by the storied Audi five-cylinder engine of its time with the modern version supporting the high performance Audi TT RS today. The limited TT RS Heritage Edition is available in five different color combinations, listed below in the five-cylinder firing order, and is limited to only 10 units of each.

    1. Alpine White (alpinweiß; non-metallic UNI; L90E; Audi) with Ocean Blue leather and Diamond Silver stitch
    2. Helios Blue metallic (heliosblaumetallic; metallic UNI; LA5Y; Audi) Diamond Silver leather and Ocean Blue stitch
    4. Stone Gray metallic (steingraumetallic; metallic UNI; LY7U; Audi) with Crimson Red leather and Jet Gray stitch
    5. Tizian Red metallic (tizianrotmetallic; metallic UNI; LB3V; Audi) with Havanna Brown leather and Jet Gray stitch
    3. Malachite Green metallic (malachitgrünmetallic; metallic UNI; LY6A; Audi) with Cognac Brown leather and Black stitch

    The interior leather and contrast stitching combinations are leveraged from the current Audi exclusive portfolio of upholstery selections, and include several first-time color combinations for the U.S. market. To further underline the exclusivity of the limited edition model, the TT RS Heritage Edition exhibits an understated, yet distinctive etch of “HERITAGE EDITION” script followed by the firing order of the five-cylinder engine “1-2-4-5-3”, underlined by a “quattro” script in the rear quarter glass on the right side of each car.

    Additionally, the TT RS Heritage Edition presents an exclusive list of standard equipment:

    • 20” 5-arm cutter design wheels in bi-color anthracite finish
    • Audi exclusive etching in rear quarter glass
    • 174 mph top speed limiter
    • Alcantara covered steering wheel with 12 o’clock marker in leather color
    • Alcantara covered shift lever
    • Alu-optic exterior elements including mirror housings
    • OLED taillights
    • RS logo floor mats with contrast stitching
    • Sport exhaust with black tips
    • Electric spoiler / rear wing delete

    Hear that heritage sound? It’s legendary performance.
    The five-cylinder engine has deep historical roots in Audi’s DNA, and is a fundmental pillar of the emotional connection to the Audi Sport brand. The engine has achieved countless victories in motorsports from courses in rally around the world to the tarmac in the IMSA GTO and at the Nuerburgring in the legendary 24-hour race, the 5 cylinder has prevailed. It even earned the  “International Engine of the Year Award” nine times in a row since 2010. Yet – it is the unique and distinctive sound of the five-cylinder engine that has captured the emotion of enthusiasts. Due to the odd number of cylinders, and more specifically, the 1-2-4-5-3 firing order, the Audi five-cylinder engine’s sound is unmistakable and presents a symphonic rhythm that is accompanied by deep tone characteristics. 

    Besides its visibility in motorsports, the legendary engine harkens back to the Ur-quattro coupe from the 1980s, and has been a part of just two U.S. market Audi products over the last few years – the Audi TT RS Coupe and RS 3 Sedan. The engine remains one of brand’s more powerful engines with 394 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque that brings the TT RS Coupe from 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds.

    The return of the five-cylinder. A social network comeback
    Until 2012, the five-cylinder engine remained absent from the Audi portfolio for nearly 30 years. In 2009, the first Audi TT RS made its global debut in the world markets, and was only a dream to drive on the roads stateside, until Audi of America took a stance to get the car to the U.S. In 2011, Audi of America would exhibit a signed petition on Facebook to bring the first generation TT RS to the U.S. market – the petition resulted in an astounding 12,000 signatures in just one month.

    After the success of the social media campaign, Audi of America brought the product in limited production run for just two model years, 2012-2013. In both years, Audi of America offered a total of approximately 1,200 highly collectible TT RS models properly outfitted exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, which became the final manual transmission offer in any Audi RS- model, globally.

    Fond farewell
    While 2022 is the last model year for the TT RS in the U.S., the model will live on in other international markets for some time. The 2022 Audi TT RS Heritage Edition and the 2022 Audi TT RS model are expected to go on sale in the U.S. toward the beginning of 2022. The TT RS celebrated its 10 year anniversary since its introduction as a 2012 model year in the US market. 

    The limited edition model, no doubt to become a sought after model for enthusiasts and collectors alike, celebrates the victory, performance, and expansive history of the legendary five-cylinder engine for the Audi brand which will continue to be available once the all-new RS 3 goes on sale next summer in the U.S.

    MSRP pricing detail

    Model 
    2022 Audi TT RS Heritage Edition$85,350
    2022 Audi TT RS$73,200

    Prices exclude $1,045 destination charge, sales taxes, title, options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.

    At Audi of America, we believe the Future is Electric. Our U.S. model lineup will be 30 percent electrified, including fully electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, by 2025, and globally we are committed to net CO2 neutrality by 2050. In 2020, Audi sold 186,620 vehicles in the U.S., and this year, we look forward to the next chapter in our journey to reinvent premium mobility with the arrivals of the fully electric Audi e-tron GT and Audi Q4 e-tron. Learn more about who we are and how we’re working to create a more electric, innovative, and inclusive future at audiusa.com or media.audiusa.com.

    This information and any vehicle specifications are preliminary and subject to change.

  • New MANUFAKTUR Label – Exclusive Equipment for Individual Customer Wishes

    New MANUFAKTUR Label – Exclusive Equipment for Individual Customer Wishes

    Stuttgart. The Mercedes-Benz brand stands for luxury and fascination like hardly any other. The design, styling and different equipment lines express the personal lifestyles of customers. With the new “MANUFAKTUR” label, Mercedes-Benz is doing even more justice to customers’ growing desire for more individuality, and is enhancing the existing product portfolio with additional exclusivity and luxury: selected materials which are predominantly processed by hand, exclusive paint finishes and high-quality embellishments in the interior offer a wide range of options for an individual appearance. A corresponding programme has already been available for the G-Class for several years: the “G manufaktur” presents its own selection of materials and colours specially adapted to the vehicle architecture. With the introduction of the new MANUFAKTUR label, Mercedes-Benz now also offers a corresponding customisation programme for other model series such as the CLS, the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-door coupé and the S-Class long-wheelbase, as well as the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.

    [source: Mercedes-Benz]

    Buying a new vehicle means making numerous decisions at the same time. After all, your own car is always part of your personal everyday life, and an expression of your own lifestyle. In addition to a choice of engine, colour, interior equipment and comfort features, Mercedes-Benz customers are offered many options with which they can tailor their dream vehicle to their needs. For those who are also looking for something special in terms of paintwork, leather upholstery and interior design, Mercedes-Benz now offers further, exclusive customisation options for selected model series with the new MANUFAKTUR label. These combine luxurious craftsmanship, the highest quality materials and fascinating design.

    Mercedes-Benz customers can expect an ambience characterised by an equally aesthetic and extraordinary colour concept, the finest materials, sensual comfort and exclusive trim elements in piano lacquer or wood. The excellence of the craftsmanship is visible and tangible in the embroidery, the leatherwork and the carefully applied trim elements. The attention to detail is particularly highlighted in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class long-wheelbase and the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, by the MANUFAKTUR lettering in chrome look on the centre console and as discreet embroidery on the parcel shelf, as it is a result of a high-quality manufacturing process with selected, first-class materials.

    One of the most expressive features of a vehicle is its colour. The MANUFAKTUR range offers an exclusive selection of special paint finishes – both silky matt and high-gloss metallic, or rich non-metallic colours. Some of these colours are reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz history. MANUFAKTUR silicon grey uni was already part of the colour range until the early 1960s, and e.g. adorned the legendary 300 SL “Gullwing” as a special colour. MANUFAKTUR graphite metallic and MANUFAKTUR olive metallic were among the exclusive exterior options in the 1980s, while MANUFAKTUR vintage blue uni was a popular choice for the E-Class (W123) and the S-Class (W126) in the 1980s. The trend towards a satin finish is reflected in fine, elegant finishes such as MANUFAKTUR cashmere white magno and MANUFAKTUR kalahari gold magno, or the sporty MANUFAKTUR night black magno. All MANUFAKTUR paint finishes exude high quality, and underline the fascination of Mercedes-Benz vehicles and their dynamic lines.

    Fine, high-quality nappa leather with unusual contrasting colour concepts characterises the ambience in the interior. This is where the classic MANUFAKTUR deep white/black comes back to life, as does the iconic special upholstery colour MANUFAKTUR pastel yellow/black, which was available for the S-Class until 2012. Also in combination with black, other leather colours such as MANUFAKTUR nut brown/black, MANUFAKTUR truffle brown/black or maritime MANUFAKTUR yacht blue/black stand for the highest individual elegance. The intricate diamond-pattern stitching further enhances the exclusive look, and ensures particularly pleasant seating comfort. The package also includes tone-on-tone additional cushions with an embroidered logo – depending on the model and equipment requirements, either the Mercedes-Benz star, the double-M rhombus of Mercedes-Maybach or Mercedes-AMG lettering in the floor mats, for example. If the customer chooses one of the optional Emblem packages available for the long-wheelbase version of the S-Class and the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, the trademarks can also be embroidered in gold or platinum to further enhance the luxurious ambience.

    In combination with the selected upholstery, customers receive further refined components for a coherent and consistently high-quality overall impression. For example, the handcrafted, two-tone MANUFAKTUR leather steering wheel as well as the door centre panels, the armrest and the lower section of the instrument panel are also lined with fine nappa leather. The precise stitching and excellent fit are testament to the high level of craftsmanship of the saddlers who fashion all leather components from the finest materials.

    Another noble highlight that can be additionally selected is the MANUFAKTUR headliner made entirely of nappa leather with double-stitched Maybach rhombus. It consists of a rear central panel in a contrasting colour with diamond quilting and a middle central panel in a contrasting colour without diamond quilting. The harmonious interior is complemented by high-quality thick-pile floor mats edged with the chosen nappa leather in a contrasting colour. Depending on the line and the choice of Emblem package, they are embroidered with the Mercedes-Benz star, the Maybach logo or Mercedes-AMG lettering. The brand logos are also repeated on the door sill panels, where they are additionally illuminated and bordered by the current Mercedes Star pattern or, in the case of the Mercedes-Maybach, by the current Maybach pattern.

    A real eye-catcher that underlines the brand presence is the MANUFAKTUR surround lighting with animated projection. When the doors are opened, animated Mercedes-Benz or Mercedes-Maybach patterns using sophisticated LCD technology light up and elegantly illuminate both the front and rear entry areas. This special lightshow is made possible by four LCD projectors embedded in the front and rear doors, which deactivate themselves after ten minutes.

  • One-of-a-Kind Porsche 911 Honors Mexico’s Greatest Racer

    One-of-a-Kind Porsche 911 Honors Mexico’s Greatest Racer

    Fifty years after the death of Mexican racing driver Pedro Rodríguez, a Porsche 911 Turbo S ‘One of a Kind’ has been commissioned, with plans afoot to auction it off for charity.

    [source: Porsche AG]

    With two Formula One Grand Prix wins, a victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and four triumphs in the 24 Hours of Daytona, Pedro Rodríguez is undoubtedly the most successful Mexican racing driver of all time. During his illustrious career he walked away with 11 titles in the World Championship of Makes – now known as the World Endurance Championship (WEC) – and he helped Porsche to win the series in 1970 and 1971. Eight of his 11 wins were in the Porsche 917 KH with the distinctive Gulf Oil livery.

    Now, 50 years after he lost his life at the Norisring street circuit in Nuremberg, Germany on 11 July 1971, Porsche Latin America and Porsche Mexico have commissioned a special tribute. Working with Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, a unique car has been built – the Porsche 911 Turbo S ‘One of a Kind’ Pedro Rodríguez, which was unveiled during a Sportscar Together Day at the Centro de Alto Rendimiento Pegaso, in Toluca, Mexico.

    “Pedro Rodríguez continues to be the Latin American driver who has given Porsche the most triumphs and joy,” explained George Wills, President and CEO of Porsche Latin America. “With this unique car in the world we want to pay tribute to a unique, irreplaceable driver, an idol of the past and a legend of today.”

    Distinctive details and design

    In paying tribute to a racing driver who was a one-off himself, the unique 911 created in his memory had to have a distinctive design and details. “This car has unique elements that no other car in the world could have,” says Camilo San Martin, Director of Porsche Mexico. “This configuration, with these specific details and equipment, has been locked in the Porsche configurator, as well as in the production system, so that this car is literally unrepeatable.”

    As well as working with Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, Porsche Latin America and Porsche Mexico worked alongside Rodríguez’s family and the Porsche Museum to create a car that not only pays tribute to the legendary Mexican driver, but also the 917 KH with which he achieved glory.

    The Gulf blue 917 KH as inspiration

    Painted in iconic Gulf blue with an orange stripe running across it, the ‘One of a Kind’ is based on the 911 Turbo S. The specially designed wheels are painted in high-gloss black, with an aluminium centre lock and the doors feature a black number two in a white circle.

    Another distinctive element is the plaque located on the B-pillar, which bears a silhouette of the 917 KH in the colours of the Mexican flag and the name and signature of Rodríguez. This same detail is reflected in the carbon moldings on the lower door frames, which light up when opened. Similarly, the names of the eight races he won with the 917 KH are engraved under the rear spoiler.

    nside, the 911 is fully upholstered in graphite blue leather with orange stitching and while the 917 silhouette features on the front seat headrests, Rodríguez’s signature can be seen on the centre armrest and on the carbon fibre dashboard trim.

    The car’s personalisation even goes as far as the accompanying key, which not only features the signature of the two-time world endurance champion but is painted in Gulf blue. The car also includes a bespoke luggage set in graphite blue leather with orange stitching and details.

    The Porsche 911 Turbo S “One of a Kind” Pedro Rodríguez will be auctioned off later this year. The proceeds will go to various charitable causes.