730 bhp & 811 lb.-ft. of torque. "why-ra”: )
#1
02-07-2011, 02:12 PM
730 bhp & 811 lb.-ft. of torque. "why-ra”: )
Hi Member's,
Another Lotto Winning type of DreamCar
I will never be able to afford one, but I'm happy that there are those in the creation of these Exotic's for those fortunate to purchase/drive & EnJoy...
They are all in my `Dream File : )
Advanced Coverage: Pagani Huayra - 2011 Geneva Auto Show Preview
Pagani’s new $1.4 million supercar will run like the Andean wind.
By Nick Kurczewski
NOW, 2011
Photos » Videos »
We thought not mangling the name would be the hardest part. The Pagani Huayra (pronounced “why-ra”) demands some linguistic dexterity, but that’s nothing compared to the financial might you’ll need to afford this $1.4 million dollar Italian-built supercar. Powered by a twin-turbocharged Mercedes-Benz V-12 engine, the Huayra is likely to be one of the fastest cars in the world after making its official debut during this year’s Geneva Auto Show. The top speed is estimated to be 230 mph.
The name comes from the ancient Andean god of wind, Aymara Huayra Tata. Fortunately for us, Pagani opted for the shortened version. The Huayra marks the first completely new Pagani model since the company unveiled the Zonda supercar in 1999. Full of sharp edges and bristling with lightweight carbon fiber, the Zonda received continual performance upgrades during its more than 10 years of production. One the final models, the Pagani Zonda Tricolore, could hit 217 mph. The price was $1.3 million, with production limited to…well, only one!
At first glance, the Huayra presents a kinder and gentler (not to mention smoother) interpretation of a Pagani supercar. The creased bodywork of the Zonda has given way to flowing curves and softer surfaces. From certain angles, especially when seen in profile, there is a hint of Ferrari 458 Italia and McLaren MP4-12C. However, the fine details—such as the central-exit quad exhaust and gullwing doors—remain true to Pagani’s flair for the dramatic.
As with the outgoing Zonda, the technology that comprises the Huayra is as impressive as the car’s outrageous looks. The bodywork is crafted entirely out of carbon fiber. Past Pagani street cars have often gone unpainted, to better show off the company’s expertise in working with this lightweight and incredibly strong material. The monocoque is also carbon fiber, with titanium reinforcements providing additional strength, rigidity and crash protection.
At 180.3 in. long with a max height of only 46 in., the Huayra tips the scales at a scant 2976 lb. There are carbon-ceramic brakes at each corner, and double-wishbone suspension (with coil springs and antiroll bars front and rear) keep the car planted and steady at speed.
Of course, the most important aspect of this mid-engine supercar is the Mercedes-Benz AMG heart, which beats right behind the cockpit. Ironically, Pagani has started with a smaller engine than the naturally aspirated 7.0-liter V-12 found in the Zonda. The Huayra now features a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter Mercedes AMG-tuned V-12, coupled to a 7-speed automated manual transmission custom-built for the car. In standard tune—yes, there are options even with $1.4 million supercars—the Huayra serves up 700 bhp at 6300 rpm and 664 lb.-ft. of torque from 2500 to 4250 rpm. The Sport model bumps it up even higher, producing 730 bhp and 811 lb.-ft. of torque.
That hole in the seat must be a P-Hole from the excitment of driving this machine 
The cockpit of the new Pagani Huayra has all the luxury, leather and handcraftsmanship you’d expect of a vehicle in this class. The wild gauge cluster (and even the HVAC vents) look as if they’ve been pilfered from a spaceship built by Louis Vuitton. A central touchscreen controls the multimedia system, including audio functions, satellite navigation and Bluetooth phone.
BEST OF THE 2011 Geneva Auto Show Preview
Click 2 check `out the show ~> It's `free : )Pages: 1 Photos
Another Lotto Winning type of DreamCar
I will never be able to afford one, but I'm happy that there are those in the creation of these Exotic's for those fortunate to purchase/drive & EnJoy...
They are all in my `Dream File : )
Advanced Coverage: Pagani Huayra - 2011 Geneva Auto Show Preview
Pagani’s new $1.4 million supercar will run like the Andean wind.
By Nick Kurczewski
NOW, 2011
Photos » Videos »
We thought not mangling the name would be the hardest part. The Pagani Huayra (pronounced “why-ra”) demands some linguistic dexterity, but that’s nothing compared to the financial might you’ll need to afford this $1.4 million dollar Italian-built supercar. Powered by a twin-turbocharged Mercedes-Benz V-12 engine, the Huayra is likely to be one of the fastest cars in the world after making its official debut during this year’s Geneva Auto Show. The top speed is estimated to be 230 mph.
The name comes from the ancient Andean god of wind, Aymara Huayra Tata. Fortunately for us, Pagani opted for the shortened version. The Huayra marks the first completely new Pagani model since the company unveiled the Zonda supercar in 1999. Full of sharp edges and bristling with lightweight carbon fiber, the Zonda received continual performance upgrades during its more than 10 years of production. One the final models, the Pagani Zonda Tricolore, could hit 217 mph. The price was $1.3 million, with production limited to…well, only one!
At first glance, the Huayra presents a kinder and gentler (not to mention smoother) interpretation of a Pagani supercar. The creased bodywork of the Zonda has given way to flowing curves and softer surfaces. From certain angles, especially when seen in profile, there is a hint of Ferrari 458 Italia and McLaren MP4-12C. However, the fine details—such as the central-exit quad exhaust and gullwing doors—remain true to Pagani’s flair for the dramatic.
As with the outgoing Zonda, the technology that comprises the Huayra is as impressive as the car’s outrageous looks. The bodywork is crafted entirely out of carbon fiber. Past Pagani street cars have often gone unpainted, to better show off the company’s expertise in working with this lightweight and incredibly strong material. The monocoque is also carbon fiber, with titanium reinforcements providing additional strength, rigidity and crash protection.
At 180.3 in. long with a max height of only 46 in., the Huayra tips the scales at a scant 2976 lb. There are carbon-ceramic brakes at each corner, and double-wishbone suspension (with coil springs and antiroll bars front and rear) keep the car planted and steady at speed.
Of course, the most important aspect of this mid-engine supercar is the Mercedes-Benz AMG heart, which beats right behind the cockpit. Ironically, Pagani has started with a smaller engine than the naturally aspirated 7.0-liter V-12 found in the Zonda. The Huayra now features a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter Mercedes AMG-tuned V-12, coupled to a 7-speed automated manual transmission custom-built for the car. In standard tune—yes, there are options even with $1.4 million supercars—the Huayra serves up 700 bhp at 6300 rpm and 664 lb.-ft. of torque from 2500 to 4250 rpm. The Sport model bumps it up even higher, producing 730 bhp and 811 lb.-ft. of torque.
That hole in the seat must be a P-Hole from the excitment of driving this machine The cockpit of the new Pagani Huayra has all the luxury, leather and handcraftsmanship you’d expect of a vehicle in this class. The wild gauge cluster (and even the HVAC vents) look as if they’ve been pilfered from a spaceship built by Louis Vuitton. A central touchscreen controls the multimedia system, including audio functions, satellite navigation and Bluetooth phone.
BEST OF THE 2011 Geneva Auto Show Preview
Click 2 check `out the show ~> It's `free : )Pages: 1 Photos
Last edited by Space; 02-07-2011 at 03:01 PM.
#2
02-07-2011, 02:14 PM
Photos: Pagani Huayra 
New Information: 2011 Pagani C9 Supercar - Spy Shots 
For Sale: One Pagani C9, Mildly Scuffed Up - Spy Shots 
Pagani Zonda S Roadster - Driving Impressions 
Pagani Exotics - New and Future Cars
& it's great....Thanks 2 the Bum's : )
I am not promoting R&T, just saying that it's a great Mag 4 the $'s
I call it my "Dream Mag" : ) I'm not permitted to have a PlayBoy `Mag
My G/f gave the order : ) LOL
Last edited by Space; 02-07-2011 at 02:18 PM.
#3
02-07-2011, 03:05 PM
Hi Member's,
Another `Dream, cause they are still `free...
Hope that you EnJoyed....I like this one 2 : )
0-60 mph 2.9 sec 0-100 mph 7.1 sec 0-1320 ft (¼ mile) 11.1 sec @ 124.3 mph Top Speed 197 mph
2012 Nissan GT-R - Road Test
The Japanese supercar goes from tough brute to polished gentleman…but one that still possesses a mean side.
By Sam Mitani / Photos by Jeff Allen
January 26, 2011
Slideshow >>
Video >>
Three years. Those were the words Kazutoshi Mizuno kept saying when the original R35 GT-R was introduced in 2008 (as a 2009 model). He told us then that while he was happy with how the car turned out, we would see its real potential in three years. Well, three years have passed, and true to his word, Mizuno-san brought along a new revitalized 2012 GT-R to the States, one with a significant power increase and more refined manners.
Under the new GT-R’s hood is the same VR38DETT 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 as before, but output has been increased from 485 bhp to a whopping 530 bhp, while torque gets raised from 434 lb.-ft. to 448. Mizuno attained these new figures by elevating boost pressure of the turbocharger from 0.75 bar to 0.90 bar, tweaking the engine’s valve-timing system and altering the air/fuel ratio. He also improved breathing by enlarging the inlet pipe diameter and a section of exhaust pipe.
These changes are all evident upon flooring the throttle pedal for the first time. The first thing you notice is the sound: a decidedly more sinister growl emanates from within the engine compartment. Then you feel the g forces pressing you into the seat as the car snaps off the line. Part of the credit here goes to the gearbox’s VDC-R mode, which has been modified to provide ideal launches without putting unnecessary stress on the transmission. Depress both the brake pedal and throttle pedal simultaneously, then let off the brakes—the new 2012 GT-R snaps off the line at an ideal 4000 rpm. Once under way, you seem to enter warp speed, as the 3965-lb. car hits 60 mph in 2.85 seconds, a figure we round up to 2.9. The quarter-mile mark comes and goes in a phenomenal 11.1 seconds…this is drag-car country.
The extra power isn’t the only thing responsible for the car’s enhanced acceleration; the new GT-R’s aerodynamics are also significantly improved. The coefficient of drag has been improved from 0.27 to 0.26, meaning the GT-R now slices through the air with less resistance. What’s more amazing is this: The car also has 10 percent more downforce. Mizuno-san worked this magic by cleverly routing more air to the sides of the car instead of over the top. Also, airflow has been increased to the radiator and front brakes via a larger grille and vents. The aerodynamic improvements, combined with those to the engine, have resulted in improved fuel economy figures of 16/23 city/highway. (The previous GT-R was rated at 15/21.)
Sharper Handling Responses and Better Ride Quality
Improvements to the new GT-R’s chassis can be felt when simply cruising on the freeway. With the VDC in Comfort mode, the 2012 GT-R exhibits a smoother ride than its predecessor, noticeable especially when driving over harsh road irregularities. Mizuno made subtle changes to the suspension, which now features aluminum-piston shock absorbers and a carbon-composite strut bar in the engine bay. The special Bilstein DampTronic adjustable shocks monitor multiple vehicle information systems to provide appropriate damping forces for a variety of driving situations. Changes were made to the front and rear caster settings for the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT tires, the only tires available for the new GT-R. The biggest change to the car’s drivability on the track was a considerable improvement in steering feel and precision.
The GT-R’s electronically controlled ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system has been left alone for 2012. The rear-biased system varies the torque split from 0/100 to 50/50 depending on speed, lateral acceleration, steering angle, tire slip, road surface and yaw rate. Of note is a special GT-R-specific yaw-rate feedback control, which measures the differences between the target yaw rate (calculated from steering angle) and actual yaw rate (detected by the yaw-rate sensor and g sensor) to adjust torque bias. Around the skidpad, the new GT-R registered an even 1.00g while dancing through the slalom at 75.4 mph.
Stopping power is again provided by Brembo monoblock 6-piston front and 4-piston rear brakes. Enlarged front rotors (15.4-in. versus last year’s 15.0s) team with 15.0-in. rears, both two-piece full-floating (and cross-drilled) designs with low-steel high-stiffness brake pads. The calipers utilize racing-style radial mounting to minimize caliper flex during extreme braking. The GT-R stops exceptionally well, coming to a complete halt from 60 mph and 80 mph in 114 ft. and 189 ft., respectively.
The careful eye will noticed subtle changes to the 2012 GT-R’s exterior and interior. These include new lights on the front air dam and the aforementioned larger grille. The rear also has small vents in the bumper.
In Japan, Nissan is introducing an interesting new program for GT-R customers where owners of 2009, 2010 and 2011 GT-Rs can get their cars upgraded to 2012 specs…sort of like upgrading the operating system of your PC from Vista to Windows 7. It’ll be interesting how many takers there are for this program, and if it will make it to the U.S.; prices vary depending on your car and which upgrades you choose.
As for those who want to order a new 2012 GT-R, the car will reach dealer showrooms in February in two trim levels. The base Premium edition will be priced at $89,950, while the Black Edition, with unique seat trim, colors and wheels, will retail at $95,100. Get in line now if you consider value to be a priority for supercar performance…but then again, you can wait another three years to see what Mizuno-san will do next
Another `Dream, cause they are still `free...
Hope that you EnJoyed....I like this one 2 : )
0-60 mph 2.9 sec 0-100 mph 7.1 sec 0-1320 ft (¼ mile) 11.1 sec @ 124.3 mph Top Speed 197 mph
2012 Nissan GT-R - Road Test
The Japanese supercar goes from tough brute to polished gentleman…but one that still possesses a mean side.
By Sam Mitani / Photos by Jeff Allen
January 26, 2011
Slideshow >> Video >> Three years. Those were the words Kazutoshi Mizuno kept saying when the original R35 GT-R was introduced in 2008 (as a 2009 model). He told us then that while he was happy with how the car turned out, we would see its real potential in three years. Well, three years have passed, and true to his word, Mizuno-san brought along a new revitalized 2012 GT-R to the States, one with a significant power increase and more refined manners.
Under the new GT-R’s hood is the same VR38DETT 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 as before, but output has been increased from 485 bhp to a whopping 530 bhp, while torque gets raised from 434 lb.-ft. to 448. Mizuno attained these new figures by elevating boost pressure of the turbocharger from 0.75 bar to 0.90 bar, tweaking the engine’s valve-timing system and altering the air/fuel ratio. He also improved breathing by enlarging the inlet pipe diameter and a section of exhaust pipe.
These changes are all evident upon flooring the throttle pedal for the first time. The first thing you notice is the sound: a decidedly more sinister growl emanates from within the engine compartment. Then you feel the g forces pressing you into the seat as the car snaps off the line. Part of the credit here goes to the gearbox’s VDC-R mode, which has been modified to provide ideal launches without putting unnecessary stress on the transmission. Depress both the brake pedal and throttle pedal simultaneously, then let off the brakes—the new 2012 GT-R snaps off the line at an ideal 4000 rpm. Once under way, you seem to enter warp speed, as the 3965-lb. car hits 60 mph in 2.85 seconds, a figure we round up to 2.9. The quarter-mile mark comes and goes in a phenomenal 11.1 seconds…this is drag-car country.
The extra power isn’t the only thing responsible for the car’s enhanced acceleration; the new GT-R’s aerodynamics are also significantly improved. The coefficient of drag has been improved from 0.27 to 0.26, meaning the GT-R now slices through the air with less resistance. What’s more amazing is this: The car also has 10 percent more downforce. Mizuno-san worked this magic by cleverly routing more air to the sides of the car instead of over the top. Also, airflow has been increased to the radiator and front brakes via a larger grille and vents. The aerodynamic improvements, combined with those to the engine, have resulted in improved fuel economy figures of 16/23 city/highway. (The previous GT-R was rated at 15/21.)
Sharper Handling Responses and Better Ride Quality
Improvements to the new GT-R’s chassis can be felt when simply cruising on the freeway. With the VDC in Comfort mode, the 2012 GT-R exhibits a smoother ride than its predecessor, noticeable especially when driving over harsh road irregularities. Mizuno made subtle changes to the suspension, which now features aluminum-piston shock absorbers and a carbon-composite strut bar in the engine bay. The special Bilstein DampTronic adjustable shocks monitor multiple vehicle information systems to provide appropriate damping forces for a variety of driving situations. Changes were made to the front and rear caster settings for the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT tires, the only tires available for the new GT-R. The biggest change to the car’s drivability on the track was a considerable improvement in steering feel and precision.
The GT-R’s electronically controlled ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system has been left alone for 2012. The rear-biased system varies the torque split from 0/100 to 50/50 depending on speed, lateral acceleration, steering angle, tire slip, road surface and yaw rate. Of note is a special GT-R-specific yaw-rate feedback control, which measures the differences between the target yaw rate (calculated from steering angle) and actual yaw rate (detected by the yaw-rate sensor and g sensor) to adjust torque bias. Around the skidpad, the new GT-R registered an even 1.00g while dancing through the slalom at 75.4 mph.
Stopping power is again provided by Brembo monoblock 6-piston front and 4-piston rear brakes. Enlarged front rotors (15.4-in. versus last year’s 15.0s) team with 15.0-in. rears, both two-piece full-floating (and cross-drilled) designs with low-steel high-stiffness brake pads. The calipers utilize racing-style radial mounting to minimize caliper flex during extreme braking. The GT-R stops exceptionally well, coming to a complete halt from 60 mph and 80 mph in 114 ft. and 189 ft., respectively.
The careful eye will noticed subtle changes to the 2012 GT-R’s exterior and interior. These include new lights on the front air dam and the aforementioned larger grille. The rear also has small vents in the bumper.
In Japan, Nissan is introducing an interesting new program for GT-R customers where owners of 2009, 2010 and 2011 GT-Rs can get their cars upgraded to 2012 specs…sort of like upgrading the operating system of your PC from Vista to Windows 7. It’ll be interesting how many takers there are for this program, and if it will make it to the U.S.; prices vary depending on your car and which upgrades you choose.
As for those who want to order a new 2012 GT-R, the car will reach dealer showrooms in February in two trim levels. The base Premium edition will be priced at $89,950, while the Black Edition, with unique seat trim, colors and wheels, will retail at $95,100. Get in line now if you consider value to be a priority for supercar performance…but then again, you can wait another three years to see what Mizuno-san will do next
Last edited by Space; 02-07-2011 at 03:08 PM.
#4
02-08-2011, 04:31 AM
Extraordinary Exotics - Special Report
Supercars for the right-brained and well-heeled.
By Nick Kurczewski / Photos by John Lamm, Chris Cantle & Brian Blades
February 7, 2011
Slideshow >>
R&T Buyer's Guide >>
If a buying a Bentley is too obvious and a Ferrari too cliché, well, you’re either certifiably crazy or one incredibly lucky individual. The automakers and tuning houses in this list of outrageous vehicles are probably hoping it’s a bit of both. After all, what is a person to do when keeping up with the neighbors means one-upping a Lamborghini Gallardo, or a 1200-bhp Bugatti Veyron? You either move to a much less swanky neighborhood, or you buy something totally out of the ordinary.
Like any automobile purchase, some real-world considerations have to be taken into account…even at this stratospheric level of pricing and performance. Sourcing a dealership, and finding someone who can fix the car if something goes wrong, can be a challenge. And with so many choices out there, it’s smart to make absolutely certain the car is safe and fully certified for legal road use.
Companies such as Pagani, Ruf, Koenigsegg and Spyker might not have the name recognition of bigger sports and luxury automakers; yet their vehicles stand up against the world’s finest supercars. And who really cares if the valet knows exactly what it is you just pulled up in? Punch the gas pedal in a Gumpert Apollo or HKS Nissan GTR, and the last thing you’ll be concerned about is brand cachet.
SSC Ultimate Aero Twin Turbo
A car must be pretty special if it has “ultimate” in its name. The SSC (Shelby Supercars) Ultimate Aero Twin Turbo is built in the U.S. and, at various times, has been ranked as the fastest car in the world. With a Guinness-certified top speed of 256.18 mph, this is about the only vehicle on the planet that can go gunning for Bugatti Veyrons. Powered by a twin-turbocharged V-8, the latest spec of Ultimate Aero has more than 1200 bhp and carries a price tag of approximately $650,000. Perhaps the craziest part is that SSC is working on a leaner and faster “Next Generation” model.
Pagani Huayra
Photos: Pagani Huayra >>
Horacio Pagani has been building some of Italy’s quickest and most jaw-dropping supercars for more than a decade. Built out of lightweight carbon fiber and motivated by a highly tuned Mercedes-Benz engine, a Pagani is the kind of car you drew in your notebook during algebra class. The brand-new Huayra sticks with the company’s reputation for exquisite detailing—check out the jewel-like cabin and central-exit quad exhaust—and adds a new twin-turbo Mercedes V-12 right behind the cockpit. According to Pagani, this handcrafted masterpiece can reach a top speed of 230 mph. Pagani has also promised that the Huayra will be U.S.-certified. The only catch: You’ll need $1.4 million to buy one.
Koenigsegg Agera
Compared to some of the other boutique sports car manufacturers, the Koenigsegg Agera approaches the art of going fast with business-like precision. Engine-turned dashboards and exposed gearlevers are nice, but Koenigsegg foregoes most of these fripperies. Simple and cleanly styled, the Agera is powered by a 910-bhp twin-turbocharged V-8 engine which, according to Koenigsegg, pushes the car to a top speed of at least 245 mph. The Swedish sports car company has also vied for the title of the ‘world’s fastest car’ and, not long ago, shocked the auto world by nearly purchasing Saab from General Motors. It’s good to see the company back to doing what it knows best—building elegant and fearsomely fast supercars.
Spyker C8 Aileron
True, the Spyker C8 Aileron supercar isn’t the quickest car amongst this esteemed company. But when exactly did a top speed of 187 mph become slow? Any Spyker is as much a work of art as it is a sports car. Rivets on the bodywork and an exposed shift linkage are only two of a Spyker’s extravagant design details. The brand, which is over 100 years old, was resuscitated about a decade ago by Dutch businessman, Victor Muller, Spyker Cars has unveiled a dizzying array of models (including one very awkward-looking SUV). The company also recently purchased Saab from General Motors. At the heart of C8 Aileron is an Audi-sourced 4.2-liter V-8 engine. We enjoyed the “brute power” of this $214,990 sports car, but remarked: “if you're careless, the Aileron will bite you like any 400-bhp 3142-lb. mid-engine supercar.”
HKS Nissan GTR R35
Photos: HKS Nissan GT-R R35 >>
The Nissan GT-R is a potent performance weapon even in stock form. Thanks to its fantastic all-wheel-drive system and twin-turbo 3.8-liter engine, the GT-R accelerates and grips the road better than cars costing double (or triple) its $89,950 base price. The tuning wizards at HKS have made a good thing even better with the HKS Nissan GT-R R35. Engine modifications include a racing center pipe, intercooler pipe kit, electronic boost controller, blow-off valve kit, and reinforced turbo actuators. During our time with the car, we noted that “the revived GT-R sticks to the pavement like epoxy, exhibiting flawless balance through most corners.” Other cars might go faster in a straight line, yet almost nothing will out-corner the HKS-tuned Nissan GT-R.
Hennessey Venom GT
Photos: Hennessey Venom GT >>
Start with a lightweight Lotus Exige sports car, add a 1200-bhp turbocharged V-8, and the result is one of the most mind-blowingly fast cars in the world. The Texas tuning house of Hennessey always comes up with sports cars that put a driver’s bravery—and the grip of the widest and stickiest tires—to the absolute limit. Even for the likes of Hennessey, the new mid-engine Venom GT is one crazy creation. Weighing only 2685 lb., the Venom GT has about the came curb weight as a Honda Civic, but with “8.6 times the power.” Currently priced at $895,000, the Venom GT should be able to reach a top speed of 272 mph.
SMS Supercars 570 Challenger
Photos: SMS Supercars 570 Challenger >>
Steve Saleen has an enviable record when it comes to tuning Mustangs. But for many auto enthusiasts, his mid-engine Saleen S7R remains the pinnacle of his craft. Not only was it gorgeous, but in twin-turbo format it ranked amongst the world’s fastest cars with a top speed of nearly 250 mph. A dispute with investors saw Saleen leave the company bearing his name to found SMS Supercars. The company’s sour apple green 570 Challenger we tested has a Lysholm twin-screw compressor and SMS’s Six-Pack Intercooler System under the hood. Despite having 500 bhp, the SMS Challenger posted performance figures that were “nearly identical” to a stock Challenger SRT8. However, at $67,581, the SMS Challenger is a bargain (in this pricey company) and available through Dodge dealers. If you want to turn heads everywhere you go—but are roughly $1.3 million short of buying a Pagani—this could be your kind of car.
Callaway Corvette SC606
Photos: Callaway Corvette SC606 >>
A standard Corvette is already one of the best performance bargains. Naysayers might bemoan the midlife-crisis image but, if you’ve driven a modern Vette, you know how wrong they are. Luckily, so do the folks at Callaway. The company has been building modified Corvettes for years and the SC606 is one of their latest creations. Starting with a Corvette Grand Sport, the SC606 comes with an Eaton-sourced TVS2300 Roots-type supercharger, integrated air-to-liquid intercooler and other performance hardware that will make your tech-loving friends drool. In layman terms, the V-8 now serves up 606 bhp at 6400 rpm. Callaway isn’t about to simply throw in a bigger engine and forget the rest of the package. During our test drive, we found the track-biased suspension firm but “much better controlled in pitch and roll, with much less bump harshness than stock.”
Ruf RGT-8
As one of the preeminent Porsche tuning companies (and a manufacturer of its own vehicles), Ruf can always be counted on to do something special. As far back as 1987, the Ruf CTR Yellowbird—nicknamed for the wild color of the original test car—rocked the supercar establishment with its blistering performance. More than 20 years later, Ruf vehicles aren’t getting any slower. The Ruf RGT-8 begins with a Porsche 911, but ditches the seminal sports car’s flat-6 for a lightweight 550-bhp V-8 engine. Fitting neatly in the rear of the 911, the new engine reportedly weighs 88 lb. less than Porsche’s own V-8. The Ruf engine has also been purposefully tuned to sound more like a racing powerplant, without the traditional lumpy sound of a V-8. The RGT-8 is set to go on sale this year for approximately $300,000.
Gumpert Apollo
The Gumpert name certainly lacks the musicality of Ferrari—or even Hyundai, if we’re being honest. Yet this angular mid-engine supercar can deliver anywhere from 650 to 800 bhp, depending on its state of tune. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph takes only 3.0 seconds, according to Gumpert. One of the hardest tasks is simply getting in and out of the Apollo. The gull-wing doors swoop upward, but there’s an enormous carbon-fiber sill to haul yourself over before getting snug in the cockpit. The exterior looks like it was styled with a machete but, hey, if you wanted some Q-car to avoid attention you wouldn’t be looking at a Gumpert Apollo in the first place. Now available in the U.S. through Tempe-based Evolution Motorsports, the Apollo is not a supercar for shrinking violets.
Brabus EV12
A Brabus EV12 sedan is the kind of car you buy if you win the lottery, but don’t want everyone assuming you’ll automatically pick up every check. Sure, your friends will think you bought a sleek new German luxury sedan—but most of them will have no idea it can top 230 mph, or that it costs upward of $675,000. Brabus can turn just about any Mercedes-Benz vehicle into something more exclusive and much, much faster. Even the boxy Viano van and tiny Smart Fortwo city car have received the Brabus treatment. The EV12 sedan tugs at our hearts with its epic performance—thanks to a 789-bhp twin-turbo 6.3-liter V-8 engine—and its stealth looks. With seating for five and a spacious trunk, the Brabus EV12 is the perfect reason to leave the private jet in the hangar and opt for the highway.
Supercars for the right-brained and well-heeled.
By Nick Kurczewski / Photos by John Lamm, Chris Cantle & Brian Blades
February 7, 2011
Slideshow >> R&T Buyer's Guide >> If a buying a Bentley is too obvious and a Ferrari too cliché, well, you’re either certifiably crazy or one incredibly lucky individual. The automakers and tuning houses in this list of outrageous vehicles are probably hoping it’s a bit of both. After all, what is a person to do when keeping up with the neighbors means one-upping a Lamborghini Gallardo, or a 1200-bhp Bugatti Veyron? You either move to a much less swanky neighborhood, or you buy something totally out of the ordinary.
Like any automobile purchase, some real-world considerations have to be taken into account…even at this stratospheric level of pricing and performance. Sourcing a dealership, and finding someone who can fix the car if something goes wrong, can be a challenge. And with so many choices out there, it’s smart to make absolutely certain the car is safe and fully certified for legal road use.
Companies such as Pagani, Ruf, Koenigsegg and Spyker might not have the name recognition of bigger sports and luxury automakers; yet their vehicles stand up against the world’s finest supercars. And who really cares if the valet knows exactly what it is you just pulled up in? Punch the gas pedal in a Gumpert Apollo or HKS Nissan GTR, and the last thing you’ll be concerned about is brand cachet.
SSC Ultimate Aero Twin Turbo
A car must be pretty special if it has “ultimate” in its name. The SSC (Shelby Supercars) Ultimate Aero Twin Turbo is built in the U.S. and, at various times, has been ranked as the fastest car in the world. With a Guinness-certified top speed of 256.18 mph, this is about the only vehicle on the planet that can go gunning for Bugatti Veyrons. Powered by a twin-turbocharged V-8, the latest spec of Ultimate Aero has more than 1200 bhp and carries a price tag of approximately $650,000. Perhaps the craziest part is that SSC is working on a leaner and faster “Next Generation” model.
Pagani Huayra
Photos: Pagani Huayra >>
Horacio Pagani has been building some of Italy’s quickest and most jaw-dropping supercars for more than a decade. Built out of lightweight carbon fiber and motivated by a highly tuned Mercedes-Benz engine, a Pagani is the kind of car you drew in your notebook during algebra class. The brand-new Huayra sticks with the company’s reputation for exquisite detailing—check out the jewel-like cabin and central-exit quad exhaust—and adds a new twin-turbo Mercedes V-12 right behind the cockpit. According to Pagani, this handcrafted masterpiece can reach a top speed of 230 mph. Pagani has also promised that the Huayra will be U.S.-certified. The only catch: You’ll need $1.4 million to buy one.
Koenigsegg Agera
Compared to some of the other boutique sports car manufacturers, the Koenigsegg Agera approaches the art of going fast with business-like precision. Engine-turned dashboards and exposed gearlevers are nice, but Koenigsegg foregoes most of these fripperies. Simple and cleanly styled, the Agera is powered by a 910-bhp twin-turbocharged V-8 engine which, according to Koenigsegg, pushes the car to a top speed of at least 245 mph. The Swedish sports car company has also vied for the title of the ‘world’s fastest car’ and, not long ago, shocked the auto world by nearly purchasing Saab from General Motors. It’s good to see the company back to doing what it knows best—building elegant and fearsomely fast supercars.
Spyker C8 Aileron
True, the Spyker C8 Aileron supercar isn’t the quickest car amongst this esteemed company. But when exactly did a top speed of 187 mph become slow? Any Spyker is as much a work of art as it is a sports car. Rivets on the bodywork and an exposed shift linkage are only two of a Spyker’s extravagant design details. The brand, which is over 100 years old, was resuscitated about a decade ago by Dutch businessman, Victor Muller, Spyker Cars has unveiled a dizzying array of models (including one very awkward-looking SUV). The company also recently purchased Saab from General Motors. At the heart of C8 Aileron is an Audi-sourced 4.2-liter V-8 engine. We enjoyed the “brute power” of this $214,990 sports car, but remarked: “if you're careless, the Aileron will bite you like any 400-bhp 3142-lb. mid-engine supercar.”
HKS Nissan GTR R35
Photos: HKS Nissan GT-R R35 >>
The Nissan GT-R is a potent performance weapon even in stock form. Thanks to its fantastic all-wheel-drive system and twin-turbo 3.8-liter engine, the GT-R accelerates and grips the road better than cars costing double (or triple) its $89,950 base price. The tuning wizards at HKS have made a good thing even better with the HKS Nissan GT-R R35. Engine modifications include a racing center pipe, intercooler pipe kit, electronic boost controller, blow-off valve kit, and reinforced turbo actuators. During our time with the car, we noted that “the revived GT-R sticks to the pavement like epoxy, exhibiting flawless balance through most corners.” Other cars might go faster in a straight line, yet almost nothing will out-corner the HKS-tuned Nissan GT-R.
Hennessey Venom GT
Photos: Hennessey Venom GT >>
Start with a lightweight Lotus Exige sports car, add a 1200-bhp turbocharged V-8, and the result is one of the most mind-blowingly fast cars in the world. The Texas tuning house of Hennessey always comes up with sports cars that put a driver’s bravery—and the grip of the widest and stickiest tires—to the absolute limit. Even for the likes of Hennessey, the new mid-engine Venom GT is one crazy creation. Weighing only 2685 lb., the Venom GT has about the came curb weight as a Honda Civic, but with “8.6 times the power.” Currently priced at $895,000, the Venom GT should be able to reach a top speed of 272 mph.
SMS Supercars 570 Challenger
Photos: SMS Supercars 570 Challenger >>
Steve Saleen has an enviable record when it comes to tuning Mustangs. But for many auto enthusiasts, his mid-engine Saleen S7R remains the pinnacle of his craft. Not only was it gorgeous, but in twin-turbo format it ranked amongst the world’s fastest cars with a top speed of nearly 250 mph. A dispute with investors saw Saleen leave the company bearing his name to found SMS Supercars. The company’s sour apple green 570 Challenger we tested has a Lysholm twin-screw compressor and SMS’s Six-Pack Intercooler System under the hood. Despite having 500 bhp, the SMS Challenger posted performance figures that were “nearly identical” to a stock Challenger SRT8. However, at $67,581, the SMS Challenger is a bargain (in this pricey company) and available through Dodge dealers. If you want to turn heads everywhere you go—but are roughly $1.3 million short of buying a Pagani—this could be your kind of car.
Callaway Corvette SC606
Photos: Callaway Corvette SC606 >>
A standard Corvette is already one of the best performance bargains. Naysayers might bemoan the midlife-crisis image but, if you’ve driven a modern Vette, you know how wrong they are. Luckily, so do the folks at Callaway. The company has been building modified Corvettes for years and the SC606 is one of their latest creations. Starting with a Corvette Grand Sport, the SC606 comes with an Eaton-sourced TVS2300 Roots-type supercharger, integrated air-to-liquid intercooler and other performance hardware that will make your tech-loving friends drool. In layman terms, the V-8 now serves up 606 bhp at 6400 rpm. Callaway isn’t about to simply throw in a bigger engine and forget the rest of the package. During our test drive, we found the track-biased suspension firm but “much better controlled in pitch and roll, with much less bump harshness than stock.”
Ruf RGT-8
As one of the preeminent Porsche tuning companies (and a manufacturer of its own vehicles), Ruf can always be counted on to do something special. As far back as 1987, the Ruf CTR Yellowbird—nicknamed for the wild color of the original test car—rocked the supercar establishment with its blistering performance. More than 20 years later, Ruf vehicles aren’t getting any slower. The Ruf RGT-8 begins with a Porsche 911, but ditches the seminal sports car’s flat-6 for a lightweight 550-bhp V-8 engine. Fitting neatly in the rear of the 911, the new engine reportedly weighs 88 lb. less than Porsche’s own V-8. The Ruf engine has also been purposefully tuned to sound more like a racing powerplant, without the traditional lumpy sound of a V-8. The RGT-8 is set to go on sale this year for approximately $300,000.
Gumpert Apollo
The Gumpert name certainly lacks the musicality of Ferrari—or even Hyundai, if we’re being honest. Yet this angular mid-engine supercar can deliver anywhere from 650 to 800 bhp, depending on its state of tune. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph takes only 3.0 seconds, according to Gumpert. One of the hardest tasks is simply getting in and out of the Apollo. The gull-wing doors swoop upward, but there’s an enormous carbon-fiber sill to haul yourself over before getting snug in the cockpit. The exterior looks like it was styled with a machete but, hey, if you wanted some Q-car to avoid attention you wouldn’t be looking at a Gumpert Apollo in the first place. Now available in the U.S. through Tempe-based Evolution Motorsports, the Apollo is not a supercar for shrinking violets.
Brabus EV12
A Brabus EV12 sedan is the kind of car you buy if you win the lottery, but don’t want everyone assuming you’ll automatically pick up every check. Sure, your friends will think you bought a sleek new German luxury sedan—but most of them will have no idea it can top 230 mph, or that it costs upward of $675,000. Brabus can turn just about any Mercedes-Benz vehicle into something more exclusive and much, much faster. Even the boxy Viano van and tiny Smart Fortwo city car have received the Brabus treatment. The EV12 sedan tugs at our hearts with its epic performance—thanks to a 789-bhp twin-turbo 6.3-liter V-8 engine—and its stealth looks. With seating for five and a spacious trunk, the Brabus EV12 is the perfect reason to leave the private jet in the hangar and opt for the highway.
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