1970 Ferrari 512 S Modulo Photographed by Benedict Redgrove
It’s hard to mention a unique Ferrari without the name Pininfarina coming up. In 1970, the fabled coachmaker put forth a design study/concept car that we can still stare at in amazement even today. We’re sure the 1970 Geneva Motor Show was breathtaking in its own right, but there’s no doubt that the Modulo was the crown jewel of the show. According to legend, Ferrari (in direct competition with Porsche) created 25 iterations of the 512S in order to meet homologation rules. Surprisingly, Maranello did not end of selling nor racing all 25, leaving chassis number 1046 in Pinanfarina’s hands. The result, as you see here, is a timeless design that is simply stunning in its forward thinking and aesthetics. The 512S was never designed to be driven one inch, and it doesn’t have to move to for one to appreciate features like its covered wheels, sliding canopy roof, and 24-hole engine cover. Simply stunning, and we have photographer Benedict Redgrove to thank for these images.
Continue reading to view more images.
Volkswagen Passat CC R-Line
Volkswagen’s heroic R-Line is finally available for the German marque’s sportiest sedan (yes, despite the monaker, it’s still a sedan). While it may be tough for some to see the value in a tuner package that doesn’t improve horsepower or handling, one look at a CC with the redone package is enough justification for us. The bundle adds a front spoiler with fog lights, side skirts, and smoked rear taillights in addition to 17 or 18-inch wheels, both of which are a stunning improvement over the stock CC’s already clever set. The inside, which is already loaded to the gills in stock guise, includes a three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel and customizable aluminum tread plates. The CC will become the eighth model in VW’s stout lineup to receive the R-Line treatment, and like its brethren, responds quite well to a few tweaks.
Continue reading for more images.
MG6
Add MG to the list of comeback companies from 2009. The British brand has started its resurgence and hopes to re-establish itself as a company to be reckoned with. The first car in its stable will be crowned the MG6, and if the sketches of the 5-seat fastback are even remotely close to what the production model will resemble, we like what we see. With no drivetrain or performance numbers to go on, we are left with the flowing aesthetics of the MG6’s sheetmetal. All lines appears to start at the MG6’s octagonal badge and continue towards the rear of the car; MG manages to avoid the now-common rising line that has affected every manufacturer from Mazda to Maserati and has complimented its sedan with beautifully done door sills and wraparound taillights. The interior has a no-nonsense fit and finish, with dark leather and hints of aluminum trim it will certainly appeal to the masses. Trying to branch out of Europe, MG has opened a facility in Lingang, China; sales will start in both Europe and Asia in 2010 in an effort to expand MGs sales and keep the company on track. We’re hoping they get to our side of the pond as well.
Continue reading for more images.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible
Get ready to see it everywhere. Mercedes has annouced that the droptop version of their recently redesigned E-Class will hit showrooms in January, and its safe to say the response should be overwhelming. With a bevy of diesel and petrol engines available, the adaptation of comfort technologies like the AirScarf (previously seen on higher end M-Bs like the SL-Class), and a virtual cavalcade of safety techstuff (two-to-one airbag to passenger ratio, tilt sensor, etc.), this variation of the E-Class is undoubtedly their best yet. Summer can’t come fast enough.
Continue reading for more images and a video of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible.
Kepler Motors MOTION Supercar
No, it’s not the most original car out there. But you have to give Kepler Motors credit for entering an already-crowded ring; their MOTION supercar will debut this week at the Dubai International Motor Show. The MOTION’s greatest feature, other than its insanely gorgeous wheels, is its uniquely devised 800bhp, courtesy of a tweaked and turbocharged Ford EcoBoost engine that drives the rear wheels; the front wheels are powered by a 250bhp electric motor. Yes, you read that correctly. While Kepler’s finest creation looks a bit like supercars past (McLaren and S7, specifically), its the drivetrain that will truly set it apart from its competitors. The power will ultimately go through a seven-speed sequential transaxle, undoubtedly delivering performance on par with its classmates, and the carbon fiber monocoque chassis and active suspension would put it at the front of its group with the upcoming McLaren MP4-12C and others. Kepler hopes to produce 50 in total, with deliveries starting in early 2011. Move over, Tesla. The next generation of green supercars has arrived.
Continue reading for more images.
Alfa Romeo Brera Italy Independent Special Edition
There are few things we love more than a good collaboration. Alfa Romeo, a brand we rarely see stateside, has put forth a joint effort with contemporary stylish goods brand Italy Independent, and the result is a number of aesthetic changes to the vehicle. This version of Alfa’s Brera, the stock version of which is featured as the star of Forza Motorsport 3, can be distinguished by its matte black wheels with a BMW turbine-esque design; an aluminum gas cap and red brake calipers provide a little contrast against the muted colors. The interior receives a touch-up as well, with red-stitched leather, aluminum pedals, and the obligatory carbon fiber treatment. While none of this can be deemed revolutionary design, these simple touches on an already terrific car compliment the original design perfectly. Only 900 models will reach their eager buyers, and the first has already been delivered; it will start its European tour in early 2010 to promote the project.
Continue reading for more images.
Vorsteiner V-GT Aero Package – Porsche 911 Carrera
Vorsteiner’s motto is “Passion Does Not Compromise.” In viewing their new aero package for the current generation Porsche 911 Carrera, we wholeheartedly agree. Following in a seemingly odd tradition of renowned stateside Porsche tuners, Vorsteiner has been successfully modifying the 911 for years, to tremendous results. Their newest creation, the V-GT package, will be available for the whole Carrera range and promises to turn the valet’s rolled eyes into raised eyebrows. The front spoiler is a carbon fiber masterpiece that is meant to improve downforce; the clever design also houses integrated dual brake duct openings with a black protective mesh grille. The rear of the car is altered by a super-sleek carbon diffuser, which looks deadly with its GT-esque fins. Other items in the package include a moonroof delete option (saving almost 50 pounds) and 19 and 20-inch forged wheels.
Continue reading for more images.
2011 Audi A8
Audi unveiled the newest version of its flagship sedan earlier this month, and like its predecessor, will compete heavily with BMW and Mercedes for the claim to the most technological and safety additions since their last update. The A8 boasts an aluminum body structure and a collection of electronic wizardry. The newest version of Audi’s MMI in the centerpiece, in addition to night safety assist, full LED headlights, and our personal favorite, a handwriting recognition touch pad (for what, we are not quite sure). Aesthetically, the A8 seems to favor the typical Audi sleek and powerful look, staying conservative without adding any vents or cosmetic flares as most manufacturers have done in recent years; the now-familiar front of the car, with LED accents as Audi’s new trademark, will surely be the face of the German marque for years to come. For now, the A8 will remain powered by its longtime companion, the 4.2 liter FSI V8, which produces 372bhp and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission; the combination should be enough to propel the sedan to 60mph in under six seconds. Word from Audi AG is that the A8 will be joined by a hybrid variant and the expected long-wheelbase version. S-Class buyers, it’s time to reconsider your options.
Continue reading for images and video of the new Audi A8.
Maybach Zeppelin 62
Maybach has never been known for their restraint, and the Zeppelin 62 is no exception. In reviving the Zeppelin model, Maybach has actually awakened a nameplate which hasn’t been seen since after World War I. The Zeppelin was, at the time of its production, one of the largest and most powerful luxury vehicles ever created. Tipping the scales just shy of a jaw-dropping 7,000 pounds, the DS7 and DS8 were powered by 7 and 8-liter V12s, respectively, and were regarded as being some of the most powerful and luxurious cars available at the time. It’s safe to say that today’s Zeppelin 62 feels comfortable filling those shoes. The 62 is defined by its unique two-tone finish, and is complimented by a two-tone interior as well; inside, the 62 will feature the world’s first customizable perfume atomizer, another defining luxury attribute of Maybach’s new flagship. A twin-turbo V12 producing 640bhp will power the behemoth, which is only fitting given the car’s rich performance history.
Continue reading for more images.
Trabant
It looks like our old Komrades from Germany are resurrecting the cult icon of the communist era. The Trabant, in its heyday, was the automotive darling of East Germany and will be remembered for its quirky styling, practicality, and underpowered two-stroke engine that smoked like a chimney. With its founding company, VEB Sachsenring, out of business, the Trabant name has been revived and the car has been restyled for the modern era, retaining much of what made it special in the 50s and 60s, but losing the problematic two-stroke. Instead, the new Mini-esque vehicle will be powered by a clever electric motor that promises to alleviate any concerns by those in the green corner. The 45kW asynchronous motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery and is estimated to have a 100 mile range and hit a top speed of 80mph. As mentioned, the design seems to be very similar to that of the Mini Cooper, yet design cues from older vehicles (like the rounded point at the end of the hood) draw inspiration from postwar American cars. Currently, two German companies are attempting to gather investors to get the project off the ground; with the Trabant’s history, clever styling, and green power, we wish them the best in their endeavor, as it would be great to see them back on the road.
Continue reading for more images.
