2020 Audi R8: The German Supercar In Italian Clothing

2020 Audi R8: The German Supercar In Italian Clothing The 2020 Audi R8 receives updated styling and new Decennium limited-edition trim.
The R8 V10 also gets 30 more horsepower when compared to the the previous model.
Audi is still offering the R8 V10 Performance version with a whopping 602 horsepower.
Audi fans, mark your calendars. The 2020 Audi R8 will make its first appearance at the upcoming New York International Auto Show. What better way to introduce the next-generation of Tony Stark’s favorite supercar than in the glitz and glamour of the Big Apple!
But to make the event more special, Audi will also feature the limited-edition R8 V10 Decennium. This model commemorates ten years of V10-powered goodness in the R8 supercar, with only 50 units allocated for North American buyers.
2020 Audi R8: The German Supercar In Italian Clothing
First, allow me to express my thoughts. The original Type 42 first-gen R8 with the venerable 4.2-liter V8 motor is still the best R8 in my book. It also happens to be the best-looking R8 too. Shame on Audi for killing the V8 FSI motor!
There, I said it. Now I can breathe and we can move on.
On a different note, the 2020 Audi R8 is morphing into a dapper German car in Italian clothing. It receives an updated front bumper with a new honeycomb grille and an R8 badge. The front also comes with lateral air intakes and new front spoiler lip. Audi also threw in darkened headlights to complete the new aggressive face.
I don’t know about you, but the new Audi Singleframe grille is a bit too extreme for my liking. However, the looks are entirely subjective at this point. And to be quite honest, I don’t want my R8 looking like a Lamborghini from afar with all those sharp creases, but that’s just me.
Thankfully, things look better in the back. The new Audi R8 gets an updated rear bumper with honeycomb air outlets, a new rear diffuser, and oval exhaust pipes. It also gets 19-inch, double-five-spoke wheels in a bi-color finish. If you think 19-inch wheels are so last year, Audi is offering 20-inch rollers with a 10-spoke Y-design in a high-gloss anthracite finish. The V10 Performance model gets unique 20-inch wheels and forged rims in a titanium finish.
The 2020 Audi R8 gets a refreshed face with more aggressive lines and sharper creases. Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
More Powerful V10 Motor
No mid-cycle refresh is complete without adding heaps of power, most especially in a supercar. The new Audi R8 V10 Coupe and Spyder receive a 562-horsepower version of the oversized mill, which is 30 horsepower more than the previous model. With 406 lb-ft. of torque, the car launches from zero to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds (3.5 seconds for the convertible). Top speed is 201 mph (200 mph in the Spyder).
The R8 V10 Performance in both the Coupe and Spyder receive a 602-horsepower version of the 5.2-liter V10 engine. And while this is the same output as the previous R8 V10 Plus, it’s still good for a zero to 60 mph time of 3.2 seconds, and a top speed of 205 mph. Whichever you choose, you get Quattro all-wheel drive and a seven-speed S-Tronic automatic, so the new R8 is still outrageously nippy if you know what I mean.
Notice the new top speed? The good news is all R8 models have a top speed of at least 200 mph. Now, this type of velocity is useless in the real world, but it matters in the face of stiff competition from the McLaren 570GT, Acura NSX, and Lamborghini Huracan.
The 2020 Audi R8 gets a restyled rear bumper with oval exhaust tips and a new diffuser. Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
Related: A spec by spec comparison of the Audi e-tron GT and the Tesla Model S.
Racing-Inspired Interior
The 2020 Audi R8 receives the Audi virtual cockpit with a fully-digital gauge cluster. It also gets MMI navigation as standard, along with LED interior lighting and a Bang & Olufsen audio system with 13 speakers. You also get the Audi phone box with a signal booster and wireless charger. This feature is included in all models of the new Audi R8.
Again, this may sound like I’m nitpicking, but the conventional shift handle looks out of place inside the new R8. If the Lamborghini Huracan gets buttons for the shifter, why can’t the R8 have those too?
2020 Audi R8 interior. Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
Audi R8 V10 Decennium
Celebrating ten years of V10-powered goodness is the V10 Decennium. There are only 222 examples of the Decennium with the last 50 units (numbers 173 to 222) reserved for U.S. buyers. If you think the unique name gets you a more forceful version of the V10 engine, I’m sorry to burst your bubble. And if you want your limited-edition Audi R8 in pearl white, sunburst orange, or blue crystal, you’re out of luck.
All 50 examples of the Audi R8 V10 Decennium receive a Mythos black metallic paint job. It also gets the same 602 horsepower engine as the R8 Performance. Want a Spyder version? Umm no. It’s only available in Coupe form.
The biggest changes are mostly cosmetic with a plethora of Decennium logos on the inside and outside, and milled 20-inch wheels in a matte bronze finish. The side sills, rear diffuser, and front spoiler have a gloss black finish. The Audi rings and badges are also blacked-out while the side blades, rear wings, and mirror housings have a glossy carbon fiber finish.
You also get new door lights that project the “Decennium” logo, and the limited-edition build number on the ground; which is a nice way of saying you own the most special Audi R8 ever as you open the door at night.
The limited-edition Audi R8 V10 Decennium has a production run of 222 units globally with 50 units reserved for U.S. buyers. Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
Pricing & Availability
The 2020 Audi R8 V10 Coupe starts at $169,900 while the Spyder will set you back $182,100. The V10 Performance version starts at $195,900 for the Coupe and $208,100 for the Spyder. The R8 V10 Decennium starts at $214,995, around $19,000 more than the V10 Performance. All models of the new Audi R8 go on sale this summer.
Alvin Reyes is the Associate Editor of Automoblog. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine. 
Photos & Source: Audi of America, Inc.



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Six Totally Awesome Concepts At This Year’s Easter Jeep Safari

Six Totally Awesome Concepts At This Year’s Easter Jeep Safari The Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah is a cultural oasis for the off-road community. Each year, thousands of enthusiasts descend upon Moab to tackle the trails, canvass the outdoors, and soak up the sights. To mark the 53rd anniversary of the event, the Jeep and Mopar brands will showcase six of their most unique concepts.
“The Moab Easter Jeep Safari provides the perfect venue to interact with and gather feedback from our most loyal and passionate customers,” explained Tim Kuniskis, Head of Jeep Brand – North America. “The diehard off-road enthusiasts who attend the event each year.”
Production Models & Prototypes Alike
This year’s concept collection employs both production and prototype Jeep Performance Parts. Mopar develops and builds the individual parts to match the rigors and challenges of off-road use. Jeep owners often seek these parts and accessories to customize their own ride. In addition to the performance parts, Jeep is using the opportunity to showcase the flexibility of the upcoming Gladiator pickup. The concepts appearing in Moab are directly inspired by the Gladiator.
“This year’s Safari will mark the debut of the highly anticipated all-new Jeep Gladiator on Moab’s scenic and demanding trails,” Kuniskis said. “To celebrate, we are showcasing six fun and ultra-capable new truck-based Jeep concept vehicles that are certain to turn heads and delight the crowd.”
“At the 2019 Easter Jeep Safari, we will be inspiring our customers by showcasing just a fraction of what is currently available in our catalog and also some conceptual accessories that might make it into production in the near future,” added Steve Beahm, Head of Parts and Service (Mopar) and Passenger Car Brands, FCA – North America.
Here is an in-depth look at each concept appearing at this year’s Easter Jeep Safari.
Jeep Wayout
The Jeep Wayout’s body-armored exterior features a new Gator Green color that will be available on production Gladiator models. Photo: FCA US LLC.
This is the one for going “way out there” during the Easter Jeep Safari. And while you’re “out there,” that full roof-top tent and sprawling canopy will keep you safe from the elements. Beyond that, however, it’s the Jeep you want if you’re with that special somebody. Burning those romantic embers on the trail is easy with the 270-degree awning complete with amber LED lighting. When it’s time to turn in, the custom bed rack sleeps two comfortably.
The Wayout, with its Gladiator-influenced design, benefits accordingly in terms of payload capacity. The roof-rack and truck bed drawer system allow for plenty of storage, making it easy to pack everything for an outdoorsy date.
Getting to even the remotest destinations won’t be an issue with the Wayout. A Jeep Performance Parts two-inch lift kit increases ground clearance; that’s in addition to the 17-inch steel wheels and 37-inch mud-terrain tires. Two auxiliary fuel tanks (integrated into the bedsides) are complimented by an ARB on-board air system. Add the 12,000-lb. Warn winch, 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, and eight-speed automatic and the Wayout is ready to head out.
Jeep Flatbill
Jeep says the Motocross culture inspired the vented carbon hood, high-clearance flares, and overall look of the Flatbill. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Related: If you’re a Jeep enthusiast, you will love this book.
The Flatbill shows the cross pollination between two exciting cultures: the off-road cohorts and the Motocross crowds. This Gladiator-inspired rig is all about transporting those big-boy toys to new locations off the beaten path. The exterior design conveys as much, as do the sliding wheel ramps at the rear for loading bikes. If you’re into Motocross and into the Jeep life, the Flatbill is everything you could ask for.
In the interest of canvassing new paths, the Flatbill comes with high-clearance flares, a shorter front bumper, tube-style rear bumper, and a skid plate. What’s more, the Flatbill can flatten any terrain with its Dynatrac Pro-Rock 60 front and rear axles and custom four-inch lift kit from Off-Road Evolution. Larger rear bypass shocks and 20-inch wheels further boost traction and off-road performance. Like the Wayout, the Flatbill features the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and an eight-speed automatic.
A bonus, however, is the Mopar cold-air intake.
Jeep M-715 Five-Quarter
The Jeep M-715 Five-Quarter concept will run any trail with its powerful Hemi engine. Photo: FCA US LLC.
The term “Five-Quarter” references Jeep trucks of yesteryear, ones that were one-and-one-quarter tons or “five quarters.” This ultimate off-road Resto-Mod combines the look and feel of a 1968 M-715 with the capabilities of the modern-day Gladiator. Those with a historical appreciation for Jeep will likely find a soft spot in their heart for this concept.
But for soft terrain this Jeep is not! With a reinforced frame, the M-715 Five-Quarter trades out leaf springs for a heavier-duty link/coil suspension system; the front axle moves forward two inches, being replaced by Dynatrac Pro-rock 60 (front) and Dynatrac Pro-rock 80 (rear) axles. The Five-Quarter receives additional protection from body-length rock rails and modified steel bumpers courtesy of the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon.
Those 20-inch beadlock wheels and 40-inch tires don’t hurt either!
The original front sheet metal was replaced with a full carbon-fiber front end. Inside, water-jetted aluminum components comprise the instrument and door panels, while the floors are bed-lined for durability. Additional body modifications include a 3.5-inch drop to the convertible soft-top and a six-foot custom-fabricated aluminum bed.
Under the hood its a power party, courtesy of a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 with over 700 horses. A vintage but re-purposed 8-71 supercharger encases the transmission and transfer case shifters. Hitting the trails at night is easy with the HID headlights and LED auxiliary lights. Rearward visibility comes by way of LED halo lights.
Jeep J6
The Jeep J6 concept comes with a spare tire and a towing package. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Related: Taking a walk through Jeep’s dynamic history.
The J6 combines the Rubicon’s two-door configuration with the styling of 1970s-era Jeep trucks. For example, the Brilliant Blue paint pays homage to the 1978 Jeep Honcho. Toss in both prototype and production Jeep Performance Parts; a 3.6-liter engine and a cold-air intake, and the result is a Brilliant Blue concept ready to blaze Moab’s trails.
From the get, the J6’s strength is length (201 inches overall). The wheelbase of 118.4 inches matches the current-generation Jeep Wrangler 4-door. The functional box area is 12-inches longer than the standard Gladiator bed to accommodate more cargo. Prototype items in the bed include the body-color spray-in liner; a sturdy, two-and-a-quarter-inch steel sport/roll bar with four, five-inch LED lights shining at 4,800 lumens a pop; and, finally, a spare tire carrier for a 37-inch meat.
The J6’s hardtop is removable, by the way.
Mopar’s Satin Black grille is a nice touch, as are the hood latches featuring the Jeep logo. On the inside, drivers are treated with blue-accented Katzkin leather seats, a bright pedal kit, and all-weather floor mats. The auxiliary switch bank controls the mounted LED lights, of which there are ten. And if you’re towing a trailer with this J6 concept during the Easter Jeep Safari? Don’t worry because the J6 has a trailer brake controller.
Jeep JT Scrambler
The JT Scrambler pays homage to the Jeeps of yesteryear, mainly the CJ8 Scrambler. Photo: FCA US LLC.
This Jeep throwback is easily noticeable with those Punk’N Metallic Orange and Nacho body-side stripes. Combined with the white exterior paint and amber top, this Jeep looks right at home in the American southwest. While the colors on the other concepts are definitely sharp, this one takes the cake for us. If we had a Jeep of our own, it would be this color combination.
Like the J6, the JT Scrambler pays homage to the Jeeps of yesteryear, mainly the CJ8 Scrambler. This modern-day version follows the Gladiator Rubicon, and employs a treasure trove of Jeep Performance Parts while doing so. Similar to the J6 again, a sport/roll bar accommodates four five-inch LED lights; another two are situated on the A-pillars. Facing forward on the brush guard are a pair of seven-inch LED lights, blasting the trails at 8,000 lumens each.
Diffused LED task lights on the sport/roll bar provide visibility for loading cargo at night into the bed, which features eight tie-down points.
Katzkin Amaretto Brown leather seats with orange thread adorn the inside. The dash panels and armrest receive the same treatments and, like the J6, the bright pedal kit and all-weather floor mats dress up the interior. The interior should be nice and comfy when canvasing the great outdoors; power comes courtesy of a 3.6-liter engine with a Mopar cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust.
Jeep Gladiator Gravity
Additional Mopar accessories for the Gravity concept include grab handles with the Jeep grille logo. Photo: FCA US LLC.
The Jeep Gladiator Gravity concept shows anything is possible with the brand’s Gladiator chassis. While all of the concepts set for the Easter Jeep Safari are awesome, this one really exudes excitement and fun. This is the type of Jeep all your friends pile into for a weekend getaway; and the open-air design makes it all the better. Color is a bonus too: that energetic Punk’N Metallic Orange is more than just a stripe now, but rather the whole banana.
In the bed area, Mopar cross rails compliment a cargo carrier basket, perfect for rock-climbing gear. So load up the ropes, carabiners, helmets, and shoes – it’s going to be a fun weekend! The Mopar/Decked truck-bed storage system with dual sliding drawers is perfect for extra gear and equipment (or for snacks and other munchies!). For those more damp excursions, the all-weather floor mats have a “plug” that allow water and debris to easily drain out.
To better handle the trails, the Gladiator Gravity rides on a two-inch lift from Jeep Performance Parts. The heavy-duty steel rock rails also come from the Jeep Performance Parts catalog, as do the seven-inch LED lights ahead of the grille and the five-inch LED lights on the A-pillars. Interesting enough, the rock rails have the same powder-coating as Ram bed-liners, making for a non-slip finish.
The Katzkin leather seats return, although this time, with Tungsten stitching. And similar to the other concepts, the Gladiator Gravity employs a cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust system to boost horsepower and torque.
What Do You Think?
The 53rd annual Easter Jeep Safari runs April 13th through the 21st in Moab, Utah. Let us know what your favorite Jeep concept is, or if you’re planning on going to the festivities in Moab, do share pictures with us on Twitter.
Carl Anthony studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan. Before going back to school, he simultaneously held product development and experiential marketing roles in the automotive industry. 
Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.



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2008 Aston Martin Vantage V8 Coupe tunning Aston Martin Vantage Coupe

2008 Aston Martin Vantage V8 Coupe tunning Aston Martin Vantage Coupe






$47,900.00
End Date: Saturday May-11-2019 11:56:39 PDT
Buy It Now for only: $47,900.00
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2019 Corvette ZR1: Supercar? Hypercar? Or Something Else?

2019 Corvette ZR1: Supercar? Hypercar? Or Something Else?

“The 2019 Corvette ZR1, a supercar that pushes Corvette’s performance legacy with the highest power, greatest track performance, and most advanced technology in its production history.” That’s what Chevy says. Are they right? Oh yes. Oh my yes . . . mostly. It’s that “supercar” that gives me pause. Is this thing fast? Very much so. Quick? Senselessly so. Grip? Like a barnacle. Stops? Like a train hitting a bank building. Supercar? Hmmmm . . .
What’s In A Name?
Supercar is an interesting moniker. It used to be the top of the heap. The highest step on the ziggurat. It used to go like this: Car, sports car (which I still believe is one word) supercar, and now, hypercar. Cars are just cars, simple and utilitarian with enough “performance” to make their average owner wish for more convenient public transportation. Sports cars lode-stone toward the True North of performance at the expense of everything else (except style, if it’s an Italian sports car). Supercars are, or were, the best (of the best) a given automaker had to offer. Hypercars added another step to the pyramid (something within the rules in any technological game) and added enough high-velocity tech to the go/turn/stop derby to nearly keep up with an F1 car.
Interesting Perspectives
The problem with these demarcations is that, performance-wise, things are always shifting upward. Something as mundane and forgetful as a Toyota Camry probably could have sat on the pole at Le Mans in 1950. What passes for a good example of a sports car today, say a Porsche Cayman, could have won Le Mans outright in 1955. When the first modern Corvette ZR1 came out a while back, it was a near world-beater. If it could not outright defeat something like a Ferrari 458 Italia or the latest big gun 911 variant, it could at least run with them. Now? That “old” ZR1 has been pushed out of the supercar category and into the sports car class.
The new ZR1? Oh, it’s good. Very, very, oh so good. But the competition is fierce. Cars like the Ferrari 812 and Porsche 911 GT eat sharks for breakfast and wolverines as an afternoon snack. Can the 2019 Corvette ZR1 match that, let alone beat it? Dunno, since no one has driven the new ZR yet, but I swear on the grave of Zora Arkus-Duntov the new ZR1 looks, reads, and seems imposing. Dauntingly so.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Power & Performance
Under the huge composite clamshell hood of the ZR1 lives an LT5 6.2L V8 engine, delivering the highest output ever for a Chevrolet production vehicle. The mill and blower combo in this new ZR1 puts out 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft. of torque. That’s a significant gain for the Corvette, and it’s all down to a new, more-efficient intercooled supercharger system and a dual-fuel-injection system, which employs primary direct injection and supplemental port injection. In case you’re interested, those figures definitely put it in the ballpark with Ferrari and Porsche and Aston Martin, but being in the ballpark does not make you Joe DiMaggio. You might be Pee Wee Reese good, but not Joltin’ Joe good.
That extraordinary plant is mated to your choice of two transmissions: either a seven-speed manual or an eight-speed, paddle-shift automatic. Yes, one of them is a slush-box, but if it’s like the same unit found on “lesser” Vettes, (it is) it actually is a pretty good choice, although a full-blown semi-auto box should have been on offer.
Photo: Chevrolet.


Styling & Design
The 2019 Corvette ZR1’s appearance has been described as “aggressive,” which is sort of like saying a switchblade looks pointy. This thing is “aggressive” the way a gila monster is aggressive; like it’s going to champ onto your arm and never let go. The ZR1’s styling is largely driven by what the wind tunnel says it should be, which makes total sense, given the terminal velocity this thing can hit. The styling is, however, rather childish in its execution. It still looks like a Vette, that’s for sure, but one with a body kit Dominic Toretto would pick.
The front end is entirely new and designed to channel cooling air for the drivetrain’s massive thermal loads. The 2019 ZR1 has four new radiators, bringing the heat-exchanger total to 13. The hood is open in the middle to clear the LT5 engine’s supercharger/intercooler assembly and made of carbon-fiber. This new bodywork/aero package plus that fire-breathing engine make for a top speed of over 210 mph.
The ZR1 comes with two aero packages: a standard rear Low Wing, which gives you the highest top speed (obviously) and an available, two-way-adjustable High Wing that offers maximum downforce (obviously X 2). The adjustable High Wing is part of the new ZTK Performance Package, which also comes with a front splitter with carbon-fiber end caps, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 summer-only tires, and specific chassis and Magnetic Ride Control tuning for greater cornering grip; plus an unending sense of regret that your Corvette has this hideous wing perched high off the back that would seem right at home on a slammed, stanced, totally rad, sick, and off-the-chain Honda Civic. Really Corvette people? Really? I know it makes (a ton of) downforce, but really?
Photo: Chevrolet.
Orange Fury
Speaking of questionable aesthetic choices: orange. Orange is one of those colors that few people are ambivalent about. Strangely, I am one of them, but boy howdy are the pictures of the new ZR1 orange. And I mean hit of Orange Sunshine LSD orange. Chevy calls the color Sebring Orange Tintcoat and it is, unsurprisingly, part of the Sebring Orange Design Package. The package also includes orange brake calipers, orange rocker and splitter accent stripes, orange seat belts, orange interior stitching, and bronze aluminum interior trim. No word on an orange-trimmed motion sickness bag.
The 2019 Corvette ZR1 goes on sale next spring and no, they didn’t mention the price. Would I buy one? Yes. A definite, hard maybe . . . with the low wing package.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Photos & Source: Chevrolet.



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Letter From The UK: The Workhorse And The Thoroughbred

Letter From The UK: The Workhorse And The Thoroughbred


In South West England, there is an area of outstanding natural beauty known as the Cotswolds. Nestling in bucolic countryside, ancient small villages built from honey-colored stone exist among hidden vales and byways where, at this autumnal time of year, Mother Nature is turning the trees from verdant green to rustic gold. Deep in the heart of this rural idyll lies Chedworth Roman Villa. This wonderful sympathetically restored house and grounds has given us an insight into how wealthy ancient Romans lived.
Visitors can see where the conquerors bathed and where they ate, how they heated their apartments, and can marvel at amazingly complete mosaic floors that all those centuries ago felt the slap of Roman sandals. We can truly walk in the footsteps of history.
Unexpected Outcomes
This is not all the Romans did for us. They also gave us roads. The UK was criss-crossed with cobbled arterial routes painstakingly built by Roman engineers and, no doubt, slave labor. Can you imagine what this was like? Britain was mostly forested in those days and those forests were filled with dangers; bears and wolves and angry, aggrieved woad-daubed Britons.
Some of these roads still exist today and one of them bypasses Chedworth Villa. The arrow-straight Fosse Way is today a two-lane blacktop. It is dangerous now for a different reason and regular users will often see the final resting place of cars in the adjacent hedgerows and ditches, usually because the driver’s determination exceeded his ability.
I wonder if those cohorts of Roman Legionaries, wearily tramping along the slick-wet cobbles, ever thought that, far into the future, an Australian and an Englishman could be seen nestled inside a blue missile, overtaking two heavy lorries at warp speed. The Australian is driving: his jaw set firm as his foot buries the pedal to the metal, grimly determined to coax out the blistering pace as meanwhile the Englishman sits quietly beside him and watches his past life flash before his eyes.
It’s all right. I didn’t die. I lived to tell you the tale of . . .

The Workhorse
The Mitsubishi Shogun is, at least in the UK, the last of its kind. An ageing dinosaur that has served, with distinction, many motorists and country dwellers in need of a true four-wheel drive automotive leviathan. It is huge and it has not changed for years, eschewing trendy features and swooping modern designs; it remains at heart a workhorse. It has all the aerodynamics of 1½ house bricks; it has a gruff 3.2-liter four-cylinder engine with 197 horsepower and a chunky 325 lb-ft. of torque.
I absolutely love it. If I offered a “Car Of The Year” award, it would win hands-down and I’ll tell you why:
If the occasion arose whereby you needed to take yourself, your family, a dog, a full-size grandfather clock, and your actual grandmother up the side of Mount Kilimanjaro in a blizzard, this is the vehicle you would need. In terms of off-road ability, it is up there with the best from the likes of Land Rover. It is robust yet simply engineered with a full compliment of high and low range gears and lockable differentials.
On the road, it has a modicum of pace and, on a drive around a tortuous country route, it surprisingly excels. I was able to maintain consistently high speeds. It is comfortable; sure, there is some wind noise from the massive mirrors but, at speed, the engine is hushed and the beast just eats up the miles. Despite the fact the rather thirsty engine is dated, Mitsubishi was able to lower the CO² emissions a bit – so there’s that.
We spent seven days with the mighty Shogun (and didn’t want to give it back) and one memorable day it took me to the outskirts of the quiet and peaceful Cotswold country town of Tetbury, where I was to be introduced to . . .

The Thoroughbred
A morning spent in the company of the McLaren brand is always something to look forward to. I was there to drive the new 570S Spider which, as you can see from my images, is stunning. Compared to the 570S CoupĂ©, the Spider adds a neatly integrated, retractable hardtop that when lowered and automatically stowed between the passenger cage and the engine, delivers an immense driving experience – if your hair can cope.
There are no performance compromises because the Spider has, at its heart, the McLaren fiber MonoCell II chassis. It does not suffer any reduction in strength or stiffness in convertible guise, or indeed require any additional structural actions. The 3,799cc V8 maintains the same electrifying pace, dynamic excellence, and impressive refinement shared by its siblings. With 562 horsepower (hence 570S), it is arguably the most affable and easy-to-drive of the McLaren range, and it is more than enough for British roads, I can confirm.
Not being a small fellow I fell into, rather than climbed into, the driving seat. The Australian, no lightweight himself, rode shotgun on the outward leg of our run. Astonishingly easy to get to grips with, the Spider and I were soon as one. The cockpit is snug but very comfortable once seated and the driving position is, well, perfect. The steering changes direction at the merest hint of driver input.



The Yearning
The Australian and I were both in awe of the performance, with 62 mph from rest arriving in a scant 3.2 seconds. Remember, this is the baby of the family. In-gear performance was even more startling and we could really feel the downforce at work, but we both agreed there was something missing from the experience. With the hard top in position, it is possible to lower the rear glass window for fresh air and to harken to the aural delights of the V8 symphony, but therein lies the disappointment.
Certainly it is loud yet strangely sonorous; it lacked that excitement, that thrill, you get when a powerful engine is truly on song. On the overrun and downshifts, where were the pops, crackles, and bangs that we get with, say, the Jaguar F Type? At a basic UK starting price equivalent to $218,000 USD, we just craved for more drama.
Exiting the vehicle was even more ungainly than the entry. Not being in the first flush of youth, I had to extricate my long, elegant limbs in the manner of a real spider trying to get out of a porcelain bath. It wasn’t pretty and I had to insist, with added dire threats, that no photographs were taken.
Personal Decisions
Without a doubt the McLaren 570S Spider is a remarkable automotive engineering achievement. It has beauty in spades and is one of the finest cars it has ever been my privilege to drive, and I’ve driven plenty. The performance defies description and yet the experience left me wanting that indefinable “something more.” For around $160,000 less, I could instead own a Shogun. So dated and outmoded in so many ways, it nevertheless offers a lofty view of the motoring world around us. It will go anywhere and do everything. A thoroughbred does one thing and does it really well, but when there’s a life to live, it’s to the workhorse that I would turn.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite











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2017 Volvo V90 Cross Country T6 AWD Review

2017 Volvo V90 Cross Country T6 AWD Review  



Wagons are a hard sell in the United States because of the lingering images of those huge, boxy ones from the 60s with their rear seats facing backwards. We aren’t sure why American automakers ever thought that was a good idea. Volvo has introduced a new V90 wagon for the U.S. market with two rows and plenty of storage for families. It’s a rare breed with no competition.
We recently drove the 2017 Volvo V90 Cross Country T6 AWD.
What’s New For 2017
The 2017 Volvo V90 Cross Country wagon is an all-new vehicle. Volvo’s V90 Cross Country is basically the S90 sedan in wagon form. It gets an increased cargo area, a raised ride height, and standard all-wheel drive.
Features & Options
The 2017 Volvo V90 Cross Country ($55,300) comes with a lengthy list of standard features including adaptive LED headlights, a hands-free power lift gate, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, leather upholstery, heated front seats, navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10-speaker audio system. Extras include full LED headlights, headlight high-pressure cleaning, aluminum roof rails, roof spoiler, skid plate, wheel arch extensions, hill decent control, blind spot detection, and cross traffic alert. 
As you would expect, the V90 is loaded with other safety features including a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, collision mitigation with emergency braking, and lane departure warning and intervention.
The Convenience package ($1,950) added an automated parking feature, a 360-degree camera, heated washer nozzles, and ambient interior lighting. A rear air suspension system ($1,200), a heads-up display ($900), and a premium Bowers & Wilkins audio system ($3,200) were separate add-ons. Total MSRP including destination: $64,640.





Interior Highlights
The interior isn’t much different from that of the S90 we reviewed earlier this year. The cabin offers quality craftsmanship and materials, an elegant design, and front seats that are among the most supportive in any class. A 9-inch touchscreen serves as the central command for the navigation, phone, climate control, and audio functions. We had a fall snow storm hit the mountains west of Denver this week, allowing us to fully experience the heated steering wheel, heated seats, and high-pressure headlight washers, which kept our view clear at night.
Our tester came with a dark brown interior with dark walnut wood inlays, complete with chrome and metal accents wrapped across the big dash. The cabin will compete with the rival’s best examples from Germany.
The seats in the V90 Cross Country are wrapped in fine Nappa leather with lots of support and adjustments. The power side support and cushion extension make it conducive for long trips. We thought the driving position was more upright than usual, allowing a better view of the road. The “Start” knob on the center console fires up the engine, while the Sensus Touch feature controls the 9-inch touchscreen.
Back seats are appropriately contoured and well-cushioned, providing excellent support, though our taller passengers this week said there wasn’t much head clearance. They also had issue climbing into the back, saying it wasn’t the easiest task. Seat backs fold forward, increasing the luggage area’s capacity from the sedan’s 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space to 25 cubic feet for the new V90 wagon.







Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The V90 Cross Country is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is both supercharged and turbocharged. It produces 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque, and comes mated to an 8-speed Geartronic automatic transmission. EPA estimates come in at 22/30 city/highway and 25 combined mpg with the vehicle’s standard all-wheel drive system. 
Driving Dynamics
Like the S90 sedan, we didn’t think a smaller 2.0-liter displacement engine could move this big wagon, but the super and turbocharged engine had enough power for all driving situations. The V90 offers a satisfying experience and performance is adequate for a large family hauler. It offers up a comfortable and controlled ride, and when equipped with the optional air suspension, that comfort is maintained. The wagon also stayed level as we traveled twisty mountain roads this week.
Overall, the interior is a quiet place with its tight construction and active noise cancellation to keep any engine growl and city noise outside the cabin. The 8-speed automatic delivered a wide spread of gear ratios as we traveled up I-70 at elevation. At highway speeds, the V90 wagon delivers an efficiently relaxed experience. Finally, we put the all-wheel drive to use in about four inches of fresh snow that hit the mountains. The V90 powered through the slick mountain roads with complete composure and we didn’t detect any wheel slip.
Photo: Volvo Car Corporation.
Conclusion
The 2017 Volvo V90 Cross Country is better equipped than many luxury sedans, with plenty of cabin comforts and technical features. Safety is another reason to take a look at this family wagon as Volvo is known for safety. It also offers up all-wheel drive to make it an all-weather capable vehicle.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Volvo V90 Cross Country Gallery






































We trust Edmunds.com to give us the best, up to date, and TRUE pricing of what people are really paying for their cars. Get a free dealer quote at Edmunds on this car:


Volvo V90 Cross Country Official Site.
Photos: Volvo Car Corporation.



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Should You Buy A New Car? Or Fix The One You Have?

Should You Buy A New Car? Or Fix The One You Have? Should you purchase something new or spend the money to fix up your current vehicle?
The experts from PSECU, a Pennsylvania-based credit union, examine this age-old question.
These tips and strategies will help you make the best financial decision for you and your family.  
Purchasing a vehicle is one of the biggest financial decisions a person can make. Next to real-estate, an automobile is the second-largest expense for many. Cars don’t tend to last as long as homes, and depending on the type and condition, the maintenance costs might make keeping it a poor financial decision. At times, this can bring us to an important question: should I fix my car or buy a new one?
Getting out of a vehicle that’s expensive to maintain, even if it means spending more on something in better condition, might be the best decision if the repair bills are racking up.
However, that’s not always an easy conclusion to come to, as there are many factors to consider. Here are a few things to look at before swallowing a big down payment in hopes of cutting long-term losses.
Conduct Research
Sometimes a car goes through a careful selection process, or maybe it’s a cheap hand-me-down that fell into someone’s lap. Most people can tell you the make and model of their car; in that sense, they are familiar with it. However, if a person is not familiar with their car’s history and reputation for reliability, they can do some research to determine what kind of experience other owners have had. Conducting this type of research is important when making the decision between trading up or fixing up.
Consumer Reports, car enthusiast magazines, and online portals like Autotrader are great resources when researching repair costs. Local dealerships can process the vehicle’s VIN and determine which recalls have been issued and if they’ve been performed. For someone considering keeping their ride, ensuring all recall work is complete is a good way to preserve resale value.
Eventually, even the stoutest cars will succumb to the wear and tear of regular use after enough years or miles, unless its been obsessively maintained. Even then, some cars just weren’t made well from the factory. For example, certain Mercedes-Benz vehicles from the early 1990s have a reputation for lasting forever. Cars built by Daewoo represent a great value for the money, but typically don’t last as long due to less robust construction.
Should you purchase a new car or spend money to repair the one you have? The experts from PSECU, a Pennsylvania-based credit union, provide some insight into this important question.
Understand The Financial Situation
Maybe someone would like to have a new car, but is not clear on how the additional expense will impact their ability to pay rent or college loans. After all, the average price of an used car is $20,153, which can take a big bite out of a tight budget. This is a scenario where, despite the long-term cost being greater, someone might have to bite the bullet for a short time and have the necessary repairs made so they can maintain financial security.
There might be options to repair a car in a way that costs less. For example, a dealership may quote one price for a repair, but a private garage will almost always cost less. It’s best to ask a mechanic if there’s a way to save money on the repairs by getting used parts. If someone is handy in the garage, they might even be able to do the repair themselves. Replacing a spark plug or changing a thermostat is typically something the average DIYer can do.
Ask a trusted mechanic if used parts are right for your car.
Consider Resale Value
Should someone choose to go down the path of buying a new car, financing becomes the name of the game. Paying in cash for a vehicle can sometimes result in a better deal, but many dealerships prefer to secure a higher bottom line through long-term financing offers. They might not respond to a lower, all-cash offer the way an used car operation might.
What is the current value of the car? It’s never a good idea to purchase a vehicle as an investment, but certain ones can hold their value well. This can work in someone’s favor if they need to make a switch. A Toyota Tacoma with a damaged transmission, for example, might be worth repairing because the resale value of those trucks is legendary.
A less reputable car that needs an expensive repair might be better sold for parts.
Certain vehicles, like the 2019 Toyota Tacoma, hold their resale value quite well. Always consider the resale value of your current vehicle when deciding whether to trade up or fix up. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Related: Toyota often scores high in studies focused on longevity and resale value.
What Does Your Car Mean You?
Fans of Top Gear might remember the hosts saying someone can’t be a true “petrolhead” without owning an Alfa Romeo. These Italian automobiles, famous for sultry looks and sonorous engine notes, are notorious for breaking down. That’s just part of the Alfa ownership experience. Old Jaguars and MGs have comically bad electronics. To the right person, that’s not a fault — it’s just character. To justify keeping a car for sentimental value, drivers should make sure they can provide a well-informed summary of their financial situation.
However, if someone understands that and owns a car truly special to them, then it’s okay to make the necessary repairs. Certain things are hard to replace, and newer isn’t always better. People don’t always get the same joy out of a newer, more reliable car.
Ideally, if someone is in a position to preserve a car that’s special, it’s likely not their only vehicle. With a well-organized financial plan, people can budget for the inevitable repairs and enjoy the experience of owning that unique automobile until the time comes when they can afford to buy something else. Maybe they just want to keep bleeding it out so they can drive their “forever” car daily. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. Cars are an extension of the driver’s personality, and the right one doesn’t come along every day.
This post sponsored by the Pennsylvania State Employees Credit Union, a not-for-profit financial cooperative. Started in 1934 by 22 state workers, PSECU provided reprieve to those struggling against low wages, high living costs, and predatory loan sharks. Today the institution helps more than 450,000 members achieve their financial goals through the founders’ original philosophy of “people helping people.”




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Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer Concept: A Glimpse of Magnificence?

Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer Concept: A Glimpse of Magnificence? Mitsubishi says the Engelberg Tourer Concept can handle any and all weather conditions.
Total driving range of the plug-in hybrid – engine and batteries combined – is over 430 miles.
A special home charging system with solar panels accompanies the Engelberg Tourer Concept.
The Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer is more than a glimpse of magnificence from the once-mighty Japanese diamond star. It is proof that future crossover vehicles – whether plug-in hybrids or full-electric – will be far from boring. And they won’t look the same, either.
Look at this thing, for example. The Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer is hard to figure out, which is probably the reason I’m loving it already. There’s a shock and awe factor when you first catch this SUV. There’s no denying the sporty and adventurous DNA; Mitsubishi vehicles are known for their sportiness anyway.
Yet viewed from the side and rear, the Engelberg Tourer has subtle hints of rugged luxury, similar to the Range Rovers and Land Cruisers of the world. Folks, you are looking at Mitsubishi’s next-generation plug-in hybrid SUV.
Brutish & Modern Style
Sadly, the Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer is just a concept. Then again, this SUV is actually pretty close to reality, and similar to the Nissan IMQ concept CUV in some ways. Although different in size and scope, both concepts would likely find promising markets, given consumer demand for SUVs and crossovers today. But unlike the Nissan (which seems like the offspring of a Nissan supercar and Lexus crossover), the Mitsubishi Engelberg bears a striking resemblance to current Mitsubishi vehicles.
Are you familiar with either the Mitsubishi Triton/Strada/L200 pickup; Montero Sport/Pajero Sport SUV; or the Xpander MPV? The common denominator between each is the “dynamic-shield” face. But with the Engelberg Concept, the dynamic-shield design is cleaner and more defined. The design is a bit polarizing, I’ll give you that, but the brutish face grows on you like a goatee.
The Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer features an updated version of the dynamic-shield face design. Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America.
What’s In A Name?
But compared to existing Mitsubishi SUVs, the Engelberg Tourer is chunkier and more purposeful. There’s no doubt the Engelberg Tourer concept is a vehicle for active lifestyles. Even the “Engelberg” appellation is derived from a well-known ski resort in Switzerland. I’m sure you’ll agree, it doesn’t get sportier or more outdoorsy than being named after a Swiss alpine resort.
But if I were Mitsubishi, I’ll choose Outlander or Pajero Sport as a final name. And if I’m betting my hard-earned dollars, I have a feeling this concept will shed the odd name for something more familiar or appealing like, umm, Outlander or Pajero Sport.
Advanced Electrification
As the Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer made its entrance during the Geneva International Motor Show, most of the hype focused on the Twin-Motor 4WD plug-in hybrid system. Now that’s quite a mouthful, so allow me to break it down. Similar to other plug-in hybrids, the Engelberg Tourer comes with a 2.4-liter gasoline engine. But it also comes with a rather large battery pack and two electric motors – one for the front and one in the rear. This allows the vehicle to achieve an impressive all-electric cruising range of 43 miles or 70 kilometers.
But if you take into account a fully-charged battery pack and a tankful of delicious petrol, the Engelberg Tourer has a cruising range of 434 miles or 700 kilometers. This is because the gasoline motor is acting as an onboard generator to charge the battery pack in series-hybrid mode.
Combined with the sleek shape and active radiator shutters, the Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer is aerodynamically-enhanced to achieve every ounce of range, according to the company. And Mitsubishi was able to do all this without scrimping on cabin space. This vehicle is roomy enough to accommodate seven.
Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer interior layout. Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
All-Wheel Control Technology
But the talk of the town is the twin-motor, full-time 4WD system. This is enough to make Mitsubishi fanboys blush with excitement. The Engelberg Tourer utilizes Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) in the powertrain.
Now, where did I hear that before? If you answered Lancer Evolution, you’re right on the money!
Active yaw control allows the electric motor to tailor the torque split between the front wheels. In the meantime, S-AWC alters the braking force at each wheel. It also monitors the power output in the front and rear electric motor. What does this all mean exactly? Picture the handling dynamics of a rally car combined with the ruggedness of an off-road SUV fed by electrons. If you add other abbreviations like ASC (active stability control) and ABS, the Engelberg Tourer is an SUV you can definitely throw around.
What’s next? The Dakar Rally or World Rally Championships, perhaps? Come to think of it, that’s not a far-fetched idea considering Mitsubishi’s affiliation with all things related to rallying and off-road endurance.
Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
Green Charging Options: DENDO Drive House
It’s nice that Mitsubishi is making an initiative towards sustainable energy options. The DENDO Drive House (DDH) technology is proof of that. The goal is to package the DDH system with the Engelberg Tourer. It consists of a bi-directional charger, solar panels, and home battery.
Yes, it’s remarkably similar to Tesla’s Powerwall. The DDS system will basically absorb power from the sun and store the energy in a larger battery pack. This means you can charge your plug-in hybrid vehicle using pure solar energy. This also means you can power your home at night using the juice from the home batteries and PHEV.
The DDH system will be available at Mitsubishi dealers in select markets around the world, but the Japanese car maker will start offering the service initially in Japan and Europe later this year. The dealer will handle installation and after-maintenance.
Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
Pricing & Availability
All of this sounds promising, but how much will it cost? Considering a pair of Tesla Powerwalls will set you back around $15,000, it will be great if Mitsubishi bundles the DDH system at a lower price. As for the Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer, it’s just a concept for now. It’s our best guess as to when we will see it on the market, if at all.
Alvin Reyes is the Associate Editor of Automoblog. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine. 
Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer Concept Gallery

















Photos & Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.



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Bentley Continental GT Number 9 Edition: The ‘Blower’ Reimagined

Bentley Continental GT Number 9 Edition: The ‘Blower’ Reimagined The Continental GT Number 9 Edition pays homage to Bentley’s racing heritage. 
Bespoke elements include a popular race car and aviation finish from the 1920s and ‘30s. 
Mulliner will handcraft only 100 of the Number 9 Edition cars, making them a rare collector’s item. 
Here’s a limited edition I can get behind: the Bentley Continental GT Number 9 Edition by Mulliner. That’s a bit long-winded, so I’ll go with the Number 9 Edition. True, it’s more of a grand tourer than an outright sports car, but it’s still plenty cool.
And plenty fast. And plenty comfortable.
Did I mention fast?
Love Potion #9
You don’t really think of Bentley as being a performance brand these days. Oh sure, they’ve got enough power to dust a bunch of cars on the road, but the public perception is one of luxury first, then performance. It was not always that way. Back in the 1920s and 30s, Bentley made serious sports cars. Sports cars you could drive to Le Mans, race, and win with. Sure, they were large and heavy and rather agricultural in their chassis design, but with a big enough engine and, more to the point, an even bigger blower bolted to that big engine, you can outrun the competition.
The Bentley Continental GT Number 9 Edition is a version of their Conti GT, which celebrates the company’s racing heritage. The big “9” on that lovely mesh grille harkens back to their victorious Le Mans racer, and is such a cool touch that it’s worth buying the car for that alone. While there is no denying the rich history, the Conti Number 9 is more than just a number spray-panted on the grille. A lot more.
The No.9 was the supercharged Bentley ‘Blower’ Sir Henry Ralph Stanley ‘Tim’ Birkin raced at the 1930 Le Mans 24 Hours. He commissioned the production of a series of 4 ½ Litre Bentleys, powered by a supercharger developed with independent engineer Amherst Villiers. Power increased from around 110 bhp to 175 bhp with the supercharger installation. Photo: Bentley Motors.
Related: The quest for more power: the story of the ‘Blower’ Bentley.
Bespoke Body Work
For starters, this guy features a Mulliner body. Mulliner is one of those olde-school companies that used to build the bodies for cars back when you bought everything separate. They are very, very good at what they do and are also very, very British. For Bentley and Bentley buyers, nothing less than Mulliner would ever do my dear boy. Their roots date back to the 1500s and the creation of luxurious horse-drawn carriages. Mulliner showcased work on a Bentley chassis for the first time in 1923, exhibiting a two-seater Bentley at the Olympia Show in London, four years after Bentley Motors was founded.
Today, Bentley’s Mulliner team helps customers personalize their Bentley with bespoke themes, some of which are really elaborate.
The Number 9 Edition is also noticeable by No. 9 badge work throughout the car. The exterior colors are up to the customer: Viridian green or Beluga black. Now, the Beluga black is very nice and shows the lines ever so well, but England expects you to go with the Viridian green option. And if that’s not enough, W.O. expects it as well (and if I have to explain to you who W.O. is, then I will have to most strongly question your upbringing sir, most strongly!).
Bentley Continental GT Number 9 Edition. Photo: Bentley Motors.
Related: “To build a fast car, a good car, the best in its class.” The story of W.O. Bentley.
Turned Aluminum & Jaeger Clocks
On the inside you have the choice of Cumbrian Green or Beluga heritage hides, each with higher gloss levels applied to the seats, inner door panels, and other areas. There’s debossed ‘B’ logos on the headrests and door panels, just like they did on the original ‘Blower’ back in the day. The dashboard is uniquely crafted and features “Engine Spin” on the center console. Often known as “Turned Aluminium,” Engine Spin was a popular race car and aviation finish in the 1920s and ‘30s as it limited light reflection.
In yet another classy move referring back to the good old days, there’s an exclusive British Jaeger clock face in the center console. It’s inspired by the original ‘Blower’s’ dials and uses the same traditional manufacturing methods of race car dials from the vintage era.
Photo: Bentley Motors.
Slivers of History
Also – and this is one of the coolest moves I’ve seen a car company pull off in a very long time – the Continental GT’s Rotating Display features a wood insert from the seat of Sir Tim Birkin’s No. 9 Le Mans race car. This backlit piece is set in resin and situated in the middle of the center dial of the rotating display, and I am floored by the gracefulness and classiness of this move. You get a car and you get a piece of racing memorabilia. Bentley is only making 100 of these bad boys, and each will feature 18K gold-plated organ stops like those found in the original.
Power & Performance
As with the other Continentals in the line, the Bentley Continental GT Number 9 Edition is lighter, faster, and even more refined. Powered by the company’s W12 TSI engine, it hits 60 mph from a standstill in 3.6 seconds, topping out at 207 mph. No, you’re not going to confuse it with a Lotus Elise, but Land o’Goshen this guy hauls the mail!
All I can say is you better buy yours in Viridian green or you will deserve the slap The Queen of England will lay on you.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz. 
Photos & Source: Bentley Motors.



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