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Classic cars

Classic cars
Toyota and Mazda plan hybrid sports car partnership
Toyota and Mazda are preparing to join forces on their next generation of sports cars, according to reports out of Japan, in a move that could reshape the future of both the MX-5 Miata and the Toyota GR86. Japanese magazine Best Car reports that Mazda engineers have already begun collaborating at Toyota’s development hub in Toyota City. The project centres on updating Mazda’s lightweight rear-wheel drive platform rather than starting from scratch, with revisions to support hybrid systems and the 2+2 seating layout required for Toyota’s successor to the GR86. The collaboration would mark another chapter in Mazda’s long history of alliances. A decade ago, its tie-up with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles produced the Fiat 124 Spider, a model that ensured the viability of the current ND Miata. For the next Miata, Mazda is said to be sticking with an evolution of its naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, now paired with a small electric motor to deliver around 200 horsepower. Toyota is expected to use its own hybrid system with comparable performance. Both cars will retain rear-wheel drive and are likely to be assembled in Hiroshima, echoing the production strategy used for the Fiat 124 Spider. The partnership
Classic cars
Aston Martin celebrates 60th anniversary of Volante
Aston Martin is celebrating the 60th anniversary of its iconic Volante convertible and has created special limited edition models to celebrate. The marque’s Q by Aston Martin bespoke division have based the limited edition models on the DB12 Volante and Vanquish Volante, with a modern take on the “Green over Tan” colour scheme by the company’s heritage. The carmaker's chief commercial officer, Joylon Nash, said the cars are an embodiment of rarity, performance and craftsmanship that define Q by Aston Martin. “Volante is one of Aston Martin's most evocative names, representing six decades of the ultimate open-top driving experience,” Nash said. “With the 60th Anniversary of Volante Editions, we've created a truly exclusive celebration of that legacy — bringing together the raw power of Vanquish Volante and the refined versatility of DB12 Volante in a way that speaks directly to our most discerning customers.” Both of the 60th anniversary editions are finished in Q Pentland Green with a Q Westminster Green bonnet, complete with anodised bronze accents throughout the exterior – including the signature vaned grille up front. The vehicles are powered by a hand-built 4.0 litre V8 twin turbo and have a top speed of 202
Classic cars
Mercedes set to relaunch the G-Class Cabriolet
Mercedes-Benz has announced the G-Class Cabriolet will be making a comeback. The G-Class, usually referred to as G-Wagons, is one of Mercedes' most recognisable cars, and has become a staple among the Hollywood elite. However, the Cabriolet variation, first made in 1979, has never been sold in the U.S. until now. In a social media post, the German car maker teased the return of the convertible G-Class Cabriolet, this time to a global market that includes the United States. Details around the launch date, pricing and specs of the new launch are unknown; however, Autocar wrote they believe it will be priced considerably higher than the current G-Wagon models on the market, which begin at US$148,250 (A$226,487).
Classic cars
Historic 1966 AC Cobra to fetch US$2.7m at auction
A storied 1966 AC Cobra with a race pedigree stretching back to the 1963 24 Hours of Le Mans will go under the hammer this month, where it could achieve as much as US$2.7 million (A$4.14 million). The 4.7-litre two-seat competition hardtop coupé will be offered through Bonhams|Cars at its Goodwood Revival sale on 13 September. The model represents one of the most iconic collaborations in automotive history, the partnership between Britain’s AC Cars and American racer-turned-entrepreneur Carroll Shelby. According to Bonhams, the Cobra on offer - chassis No. CS 2131 - is among only five right-hand drive Cobras built before November 1963, and one of just two prepared to race at Le Mans that year. Driven by Ninian Sanderson and Peter Bolton for the AC Cars factory team, it proved a tough customer, covering 2,592 miles at an average speed of 108 mph and touching 160 mph on the Mulsanne Straight. It finished seventh overall and first in its class. The car later passed to John Willment Automobiles Ltd., competing at Goodwood, Silverstone and Nürburgring, before being rebuilt with a new body in 1966 and re-registered as “13 COB”. Under Martin Colvill’s ownership, it achieved 12 outright victories and 44 class wins in mor
Classic cars
Homage to NY City in Aime Leon Dore's Porsche 993 Turbo
With its longstanding partnership with Porsche, Fashion and Lifestyle brand Aimé Leon Dore (ALD) unveils the bespoke Porsche 993 Turbo - the fifth classic model restored. Founded by Teddy Santis, ALD is a New York City-based fashion and lifestyle brand known for its focus on high-quality products that blend classic and contemporary styles, drawing inspiration from the city’s diverse cultural influences. A Porsche 993 Turbo combines a powerful twin-turbo powertrain with an air-cooled engine for outstanding performance and handling. ALD's restoration transcends aesthetics, bringing the celebrated classic back visually and technically.Porsche 993 Turbo by Aimé Leon DoreA number of components from the 993 Turbo S were incorporated during the intensive development process. The iconic Turbo S spoiler enhances both visual appeal and downforce. In addition, the 993 Turbo S Exhaust and Front Splitter enhanced aerodynamics and increased performance. Mulberry Green Porsche Turbo Twist rims encircle the 18-inch rims, highlighted by gold accents. For the Porsche 993 Turbo, Michelin provided 18" Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires, the same tires that equipped the seven-time title-winning Porsche 963. “It’s great to see the latest instal

Classic cars
Classic Car Auction: Sammy Hagar's 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari
The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company is set to feature a highly anticipated lot in its upcoming auction: Sammy Hagar's 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari. This iconic supercar, owned by the legendary rock musician Sammy Hagar, is expected to draw significant attention from collectors and enthusiasts alike.About the CarThe 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari is a marvel of automotive engineering, combining a 6.3-litre V-12 engine with a hybrid system to produce a staggering 950 horsepower. This makes it the most powerful Ferrari ever produced. The LaFerrari boasts a top speed of 349 kph and can accelerate from 0-100 kph in just 2.9 seconds. With its sleek design, advanced aerodynamics, and cutting-edge technology, the LaFerrari is a true masterpiece of modern supercar design.Rarity and Build Numbers- Total Production: The Ferrari LaFerrari was produced in a limited run of 500 units worldwide. This exclusivity adds to its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. - Additional Variant: In addition to the coupe version, Ferrari also produced an Aperta open-top variant, with only 210 units built. This makes the Aperta even rarer and more sought-after.Specifications- Engine: 6.3-litre V-12 hybrid - Horsepower: 950 hp - Torque: 664 lb-ft - Tra
Classic cars
The investment potential of classic cars
The recent sale of the 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider at the 2024 Monterey auction for a staggering A$24.7 million, underscores the enduring allure and investment potential of classic cars. This particular model, chassis no.1795 GT, not only fetched the highest price at the auction, but also highlighted several key factors that make classic cars a compelling asset class for investors. One of the primary drivers of the Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider’s value is its historical significance and rarity. As the first of only 56 examples produced, this car holds a unique place in automotive history. Its debut at the 1960 Geneva Motor Show and its original Grigio exterior colour further enhance its desirability. The car’s provenance, including its limited number of owners and well-documented history, adds to its appeal. The 250 GT SWB California Spider is renowned for its engineering excellence. Equipped with a race-spec Tipo 168 V12 engine, this model was designed for both performance and elegance. The fact that this particular car retains its original bodywork, engine, gearbox, rear axle, and drivetrain is a testament to its authenticity and preservation. Such originality is highly prized among collect
Classic cars
Things You Can't Buy Right Now: The R17 electric restomod
A French designer has reinterpreted the iconic Renault 17 sports coupé of the 70s with a sculptural show car, the R17 electric restomod x Ora Ïto. Designer Ïto shares his vision for the project: “With Gilles Vidal and Sandeep Bhambra, concept car managers, we have worked on a retro-futuristic, almost cinematographic, theme,” explains Ïto. “I wanted to wrap Renault 17 in a second skin to glorify it and bring it up to date using my own style.” Highlights of the R17 electric restomod: 1. Carbon bodywork: A visually stunning carbon-fibre exterior, enhancing its aerodynamic performance and giving it a sleek and modern look. 2. Retro-futuristic interior: Combining elements of the past and present, incorporating futuristic elements while preserving the iconic design of the Renault 17. 3. Exclusive Galactic Brown colour: A never-before-seen and exclusive Galactic Brown colour, adding elegance and exclusivity to its visual appeal. 4. Spectacular performance: Powered by a state-of-the-art electric motor, delivering an impressive 270 hp (199 kW) and a range of 248 miles on a single charge. From 14 October, enthusiasts can take a look at the R17 electric restomod at the Paris Motor Show 2024. Renault 17: A Visionary